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The New York Knicks are at fault for the regression of Kristaps Porzingis

Robby Sabo
The New York Knicks are at fault for the regression of Kristaps Porzingis
Jan 27, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) controls the ball against Charlotte Hornets power forward Marvin Williams (2) during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 1, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) dunks against the Brooklyn Nets during the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Final thoughts

Kristaps Porzingis has missed seven games this season, all coming over the last month and a half. His body has held up entirely better than his rookie season. This much we do know.

He’s currently averaging 18.5 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks a game. His points are up, rebounds are down, and blocks remain the same when compared to a season ago. Additionally, he’s shooting at a better clip (.451 to .421).

So, why do we say he’s regressing? [sc name=”Kristaps Porzingis Player Page” ]

Well, in reality, he’s not. He’s just not progressing the way he ought to be with his skill set and at his talent level. And over the last month or so has fallen into a streaky type category in the league — something that’s never a great label.

If the Knicks were smart, they’d look at their current situation and understand that mediocrity is purgatory in the NBA. Battling for the sixth, seventh or eighth seed is a death sentence that never warrants sustained success.

What needs to happen is a plan that allows for teammates around KP to understand that their role is to not only develop a winning culture, but to develop the cornerstone piece of the franchise.

Right now, guys like D-Rose and Carmelo Anthony don’t understand that and, quite honestly, are at the stage in their career in which it couldn’t be asked of them.

KP needs guys around him who’ll help him get to stud NBA status, not just “help matters.”

All of this falls on the Knicks, no matter what KP thinks of Melo.

[sc name=”Knicks Link Next” link=”elitesportsny.com/2017/02/10/new-york-knicks-head-coach-jeff-hornacek-never-chance-from-start-701/” text=”Jeff Hornacek never had a chance from the start” ]
Robby Sabo
Robby Sabo

Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media.

Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com