New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau dished out major praise to one of his promising rookies on Sunday.
Knicks: Tom Thibodeau high on Ariel Hukporti’s trajectory
Per Kristian Winfield of The New York Daily News, Thibodeau said this about center Ariel Hukporti following the Knicks’ 140-106 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, (h/t Let’s Talk Knicks):
“Thibs on Ariel Hukporti: ‘He’s got a very bright future. He’s high-energy… and he’s learning the NBA game, and he’s around some of really good veterans, who can help speed up that process.'”
Hukporti has not seen much playing time this season. However, when he has touched the court, he’s made the most of his time. The 22-year-old big man has shown an ability to play disciplined defense, set screens, effectively dive to the basket, and finish in close with a soft touch.
Knicks: Hukporti has the tools to build a sound NBA game
The No. 55 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft was recently called up to New York’s NBA squad from the Westchester Knicks and played his first game under Thibodeau against Milwaukee since their Dec. 19 matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Hukporti racked up four rebounds and one block in five minutes of action. The 6-11 big has played well whenever he’s seen 10 or more minutes of playing time, which has occurred four times across his 13 appearances on the year including yesterday.
As he continues to cultivate his game while learning from teammates like Knicks All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns, he’ll have a great chance to take his natural gifts and feel for the game, and round them into form. Hukporti already has the motor, IQ, and willingness to take him far. It will now be up to time to tell how much that maturation process gets sped up.
