Why is all the rage about getting a nickname for New York Knicks rookie Kristaps Porzingis? It’s simple: he doesn’t need one.
By Robby Sabo
What in the world is the big deal about a nickname for Kristaps Porzingis?
In this world of instant gratification and social media heroes, do we really have to proclaim a nickname for the kid just 15 games into what looks like a promising NBA career with the New York Knicks?
If we must, then I have the perfect solution.
How about “KP?”
KP is perfect. It’s quiet, unassuming, and doesn’t carry a lot of flash with it. Therefore, it fits who this 20-year old Latvian is as a person.
Porzingis has already stated he doesn’t like the “Zinger” tag being thrust onto him early on. So, anything along those lines is out. (Sorry Godzingis fans, not only is that one lame, Porzingis hates it.)
KP runs across the line of a Kevin Garnett nickname (KG). Of course, he was also tagged as “The Big Ticket,” but for all intents and purposes, KG became his default nickname. It was much easier to roll of the tongue in all situations.
Quite frankly, some of the current nicknames in the association are just ridiculous. They’re a complete stretch, a name given “just because” none previously was.
Take for example the nickname of “Boshtrich.” Are we kidding here? If I didn’t give you the owner of Chris Bosh – forward for the Miami Heat – you might not have guessed that one.
Even Kobe Bryant’s “Black Mamba” felt a little forced. Everybody in the galaxy calls the man Kobe. His first name is already one of the more unique nicknames there is.
Perhaps the best argument for either no nickname, or the simple “KP” for Porizingis comes when referencing his teammate. Carmelo Anthony has no elaborate nickname. It’s simply “Melo.” It works and it’s beautiful.
This is why the two simple names of “Melo” and “KP” working together in harmonic bliss over the next few seasons sounds so freaking amazing.
Let’s allow the kid to make a name for his actual last name of Porzingis first, before we squeeze another name in there. The last thing we want is another disappointment of an NBA player who has an awkward, incredibly forced nickname thanks to the over-indulgent media.
If a unique, creative name comes about over time for the kid, then bring it on. For now though, KP works just fine and dandy.
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