The New York Knicks are turning to Nerlens Noel after starting center Mitchell Robinson suffered a fractured right hand that would sideline him for several weeks. Noel was eventually named as a starter in their game against the Houston Rockets on Saturday night.

After the game, the Kentucky product claimed that he will be ready to contribute whenever his number is called by head coach Tom Thibodeau.

“They know I’m ready,” Noel said via New York Post. “Once that task comes I’ll be ready to go. Mitchell is a big piece on this team. Everything he brings to the table. I hope he has a speedy recovery. Until then, I’ll definitely man the defense, man the paint. Just make sure I’m playing at a high level for this team.”

On Saturday, Julius Randle and Immanuel Quickley both headlined the team as they notched 22 points apiece. Their scoring production was enough to maintain a comfortable margin against their opponents all throughout the game.

The Knicks never looked back as they ultimately finished the game with a convincing 121-99 victory. Noel produced 10 points on 5/6 shooting from the field along with six rebounds in 32 minutes of action in his first start with the Knicks. New York further extended its winning streak to two games as they improved to a 13-15 record for the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference.

Nerlens Noel is expected to have a larger role with the team since Mitchell Robinson is slated to have surgery which will rule him out for over four to six weeks. His veteran leadership will certainly come in hand for a young squad that is looking to find consistent momentum as the season progresses.

The Knicks will vie for their third consecutive victory when they host the skidding Atlanta Hawks on Feb. 15.