Kristaps Porzingis' introduction to the NBA was not a kind one. The power forward was booed with the New York Knicks drafted him then rumors of an unhappy Carmelo Anthony began floating around while Phil Jackson attempted to justify the draft move. However, Porzingis did everything possible to squash the doubt with a strong stint in summer league play that has won a lot of people over, including Anthony.
The New York Knicks are Anthony's team. He is the face of the franchise and the player that Jackson feels pressured to build around. After the NBA Draft, ESPN's Chris Broussard reported that Anthony was not happy with the fact that Porzingis was drafted and Tim Hardaway Jr was traded as NBA sources noted that the small forward felt betrayed by the Knicks' ownership. However, Porzingis went on the record about those rumors saying that Anthony was actually one of the first people to reach out to him.
"Carmelo Anthony reached out to me after I got drafted. He said, "Congrats, welcome to the team." I didn't have his number, so I texted back, "Who's this?" And then a few minutes later, he said, "This is Melo" with his No. 7 as the "l." I met him actually when I came for my Knicks tryout for the first time. We've talked a couple of times since then," Porzingis said, via Bleacher Report.com.
The expectations for Porzingis in the regular season are a bit unknown. The Knicks signed Derrick Williams to a two-year contract and he certainly could be an option to start moving forward. According to Ian Begley of ESPNNewYork.com, the Knicks are not counting on Porzingis to be a starter, but they will not rule out the option if the rookie proves that he can handle the NBA tradition. Jackson needs Porzingis to be a star. The team president dealt with a lot of criticism after the NBA Draft and if the power forward shows real signs of progress, he could be put in the lineup immediately.
The Knicks are still an option to add size moving forward. With Robin Lopez starting at center, there is some questionable depth behind him. The NBA free agent market still has some solid options for New York if they want defensive help. Carlos Boozer might be the best available as the center waits on a contract. JaVale McGee is also available as the Dallas Mavericks continue to keep an eye on him. There is also the option of trade deals for players like Chris Andersen or Brendan Haywood who could become quality depth behind Lopez.