Many Knicks fans are happy that the long rebuild they had to endure after Carmelo Anthony’s departure is over. They now sit among the top teams of the Eastern Conference, and there are plenty of reasons to believe that they’ll remain competitive for a long time.
Because of this truth, they wouldn’t likely be dealing with any high-potential rookies from the draft any time soon. Since players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns will ensure NYK is out of the lottery spots, finding high-value players outside of the lottery becomes a more critical job.
One of New York’s most outstanding young players this season was picked late in the second round of last year’s draft. While no huge expectations are placed on athletes selected late in the draft process, New York’s head coach couldn’t help but gush over the player they picked at the 58th spot.
Tom Thibodeau praises Ariel Hukporti’s development in the Knicks roster
Tom Thibodeau openly talked about Ariel Hukporti’s development at the Madison Square Garden this season. While he’s not done enough to win more minutes in Thibs’ rotation, the veteran head coach is liking what he’s seeing out of the seven-foot center.
Per Empire Sports Media’s Matthew Legros:
“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.’”
One reason New York is taking its time incorporating Hukporti into the rotation is his age. While his 7’0″ frame is an impressive weapon, he’s a very old rookie at 22. Being an unpolished prospect at that advanced age doesn’t usually bode well for a big man’s chances in the NBA.
However, it’s hard to blame Hukporti when he’s working hard with every opportunity he gets. The German rookie averages 1.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, 0.5 assists, and 0.8 blocks in 8.6 minutes a night.
If Thibs is to be believed on his statement, Hukporti has the potential to become a reliable rotation option for Towns and the rest of the Knicks’ frontcourt. Fans will hope he develops to become such a key part of the rotation.
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