At only 20-years-young, Kristaps Porzingis is doing pretty good for himself.
After his first year with the New York Knicks, Porzingis has averaged over 14 points and seven rebounds, numbers that are pretty decent for even a veteran forward/center. His jersey also sold out before the season was halfway over, showing the Latvian import is pretty popular amongst fans. Oh, and he can dunk, like, a lot.
It’s no surprise, then, that new Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek thinks he’s going to do well. Just how well, though? According to Wall Street Journal writer Chris Herring, Hornacek had this to say about the rookie:
Hornacek, on Porzingis: "Why can't he be a top-5 player in this league? Why can't he be the best player in this league?"
— Chris Herring (@Herring_NBA) June 3, 2016
Wow. That’s a lot of faith in “Zanghis Khan” (our favorite one so far). For now, Porzingis will have to get his stats up as he waits behind Carmelo Anthony for more playing time. Still, here’s hoping Kristap can live up to his potential, or, at least, his future coach’s expectations. No pressure, though!
Photo (cover): New York Post
Photo (top): Sports Grid