If Kristaps Porzingis was nervous before his first NBA start, he certainly did not show it. The power forward was first met with boos when the New York Knicks drafted him in the first round this year, but New York fans have likely turned those into cheers as the rookie led the way against the Milwaukee Bucks with aggressive play while pairing well with Derrick Williams off the bench.
Heading into the Wednesday night game, head coach Derek Fisher announced that Porzingis was confirmed as the starter for the Knicks over Williams. This was not new news. Many had predicted that Porzingis would earn the start as he had thrived since arriving in New York. After one-on-one workouts with Carmelo Anthony and solid play in the preseason, Porzingis was worth the hype in his first game.
"I just think his versatility changes what can happen on the floor because of the multiple skills offensively and defensively," Fisher said, via ESPN.com. "We obviously drafted him No. 4. Why should we hold him on the shelf? It doesn't mean he's going to start all season, but we feel like we've seen enough that he deserves the opportunity to show what he can do."
The biggest concern right now for New York is the health of Arron Afflalo. The shooting guard did not play on Wednesday night and could miss significant time after re-aggravating a hamstring injury. In his place veteran Sasha Vujacic made the start as Fisher credited the veteran for his knowledge of the game and comfort level in the triangle offense. Fisher had the option of starting either Langston Galloway or Jerian Grant as well.
According to the New York Post, Afflalo is dealing with a mild strain of the hamstring and could be out two weeks. That is not ideal for the free agent signee who inked a two-year contract. The Knicks are hopeful that he can carry the offensive load for Anthony who said he would rather Afflalo sit out of practice instead of playing while not completely healthy. The shooting guard is hopeful things heal quickly.
"I want to say I guess I just have to give it another two weeks or so but it's hard to judge," Afflalo said, via the New York Post. "I'm just going to go based on how I feel and with what the medical staff tells me. I feel better. Just a little disappointed in not being able to progress but it's OK. Just trying to go day-to-day with it. Sometimes, hamstrings can be tricky. If there's a strain, it takes the right amount of time to heal. I felt great, but obviously, I've got to let it get to 100 percent."
