The New York Knicks are 0-2 to start the season, which is not much of a surprise given the absence of consistent production on their team, particularly at point guard. However, it is somewhat surprising to see Willy Hernangomez playing so few minutes to begin the year.
The Spanish big man has played just four minutes through two games, and was a DNP-coach’s decision in their most recent game against the Detroit Pistons. Despite a strong rookie season where he averaged 8.2 points and 7.0 rebounds, Hernangomez has fallen in the depth chart behind newcomer Enes Kanter and Kyle O’Quinn.
Hernangomez does have one notable supporter within the team, though: Kristaps Porzingis. According to Newsday’s Barbara Barker, the Knicks star wants Hernangomez to play more than he has, and he thinks he deserves to.
KP wants Willy Hernangomez to play. "I think so. I think he deserves it." @Al_Iannazzone pic.twitter.com/mDQUov5bdz
— Barbara Barker (@meanbarb) October 22, 2017
The final decision on who plays ultimately lies within Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek, though. And aside from Kanter and O’Quinn, Hernangomez will also have Joakim Noah to contend for playing time once the veteran big man returns from his suspension.
Along with Kristaps Porzingis, Willy Hernangomez is one of the few promising young pieces the Knicks have on their roster. But with so much competition for playing time at the center spot this season, it’ll likely take more than Porzingis’ endorsement to get on the floor. He'll need to go out and earn his minutes during practice and prove to Hornacek he’s worth playing.
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