While the focus has been on potential big-name acquisitions to fill the void left by Isaiah Hartenstein’s departure, one promising talent within the Knicks‘ own ranks has been making waves. Dmytro Skapintsev, a 7’1″ center from Ukraine, has been quietly honing his skills in the G-League and is now showing signs of NBA-level talent.
Rising from the Shadows: Could Dmytro Skapintsev’s Emerge as a Key Player?
Over the past two years, Skapintsev has played 52 games with the Westchester Knicks, demonstrating steady improvement. This past season, he averaged 26.6 minutes over 25 games, recording 12.1 points, eight rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game. His performance highlights his potential as a viable replacement for Hartenstein.
A Standout Performance in Summer League
In the Knicks’ second Summer League game against the Brooklyn Nets, Skapintsev emerged as the top player. Coming off the bench, he contributed 19 points, nine rebounds, two assists, three steals, and a block in just 17 minutes, including a three-pointer. His all-around elite performance has earned him increased playing time, and he should not be overlooked as a contender for a more permanent roster spot.
Skapintsev vs. Other Center Options
While the Knicks have exercised Jericho Sims’ option and are considering reuniting with Precious Achiuwa, Skapintsev offers unique advantages. Achiuwa, despite his experience, lacks the size and physicality desired in a backup center. Skapintsev, on the other hand, excels in rebounding and scoring around the basket. His assist numbers have also improved, rising from 1.8 in the 2022–23 season to 3.2 last year, indicating his growing versatility.
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The Road Ahead for Skapintsev
The Knicks might still explore the trade market for a young, controllable player. However, if Skapintsev continues to excel in the Summer League, he will likely see significant time during the NBA preseason. This would provide him with an excellent opportunity to integrate into the Knicks’ regular season plans and demonstrate his capabilities against NBA-level competition.