New York Knicks: How will Bobby Portis make an impact in 2019?

New York Knicks, Bobby Portis
Mar 8, 2019; Charlotte, NC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Bobby Portis (5) reacts to a no call in the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

The newest member New York Knicks is bringing the heat. Newly acquired center/power forward Bobby Portis has been quite vocal since signing with the Knicks.

Portis has already talked about the Knicks’ bench being one of the best in the league. He was also quoted saying he loves being the underdog, which is what the team will inevitably be this season.

Portis recently said that second-year player and one of the bright spots from 2018, Mitchell Robinson, will be the starting center for the New York Knicks. Rightfully so, Robinson deserves to showcase his abilities and earn starting minutes as a result of his impressive defense throughout his rookie campaign.

When he spoke with the Marc Berman of the New York Post, Portis said, “I don’t care about starting or coming off the bench.”

This is a direct testament of his mentality towards the 2019-20 season and the type of player he is and can be for a team in need of veteran leadership.

With these stats, 14.2 points, 8.1 rebounds and shot 39.3 percent from beyond the arc, Portis should be the leader on the bench. Those stats and being productive on defense will put him in the conversation for the sixth man award.

The New York Knicks need to talk with their actions:

All of this optimism that Portis is bringing to the Knicks is great, but fans need to see it on the court. The Knicks have nothing to lose this season, literally. The only way is up, so Portis will need to prove his worth on the court and help the younger player develop even further.

While there will certainly be hurdles and challenges to overcome, the signing of numerous veteran players should allow the starting team to mesh efficiently and continue on towards a complete rebuild.