When New York Knicks‘ Kristaps Porzingis went down with a significant knee injury, it was expected that he would be out well into the 2018 season. The drafting of forward Kevin Knox has fueled a resurgence in energy for an organization that has struggled in recent years.
Porzingis isn’t expected to return until after the All-Star Break, and some say he might not play at all, but the fact of the matter is that his influence is much more than just ‘on’ the court.
Center Enes Kanter didn’t anticipate the Knicks’ star play to return with such high energy, especially after months of being a ghost and riding his own wave.
“He’s so engaged, man,’’ Kanter stated in awe, according to the NY Post. “Unbelievable. I talked to him on the sideline. He’s jumping, ‘I’m so pumped. I can’t wait to go [play]'”
Just the pure excitement from Kanter offers a boost of confidence and optimism for the season ahead. The Knicks are finally putting together a solid roster with legitimate depth and youth.
“I’m very excited about him,’’ Kanter said. “That shows how much he loves the team and cares about the team. He’s coming to sidelines and so pumped for us and he’s not even playing. To see an All-Star guy cheering for you, it gives you extra motivation. I think it’s important for him to come to every practice and cheer for us. To see a franchise hurt and just jumping and pumping you up, that gives you extra motivation.’’
The New York Knicks are in good hands:
The Unicorn seems to be taking a different approach to his role on the team while he rehabilitates from a torn ACL. His leadership and authority will be a good tool for the rookies on the team, and his return will be even more significant.