Dallas Mavericks forward Kristaps Porzingis continues to show progress as he nears his return to the court. He recently participated in his first full practice with the Mavs, and according to him, he felt really good.
The former New York Knicks All-Star also pointed out that he “felt comfortable right way” despite playing 5-on-5 with his new teammates for the first time.
"I felt fluid, I felt comfortable right away with the guys," — Kristaps Porzingis on his first Mavs practice 🦄😁 #MFFL
(Via @FOXSportsSW)pic.twitter.com/8G7LbCF3ya
— SportsDay Mavs (@dmn_mavericks) March 17, 2019
Kristaps Porzingis, who was acquired by the Mavs in a trade with the Knicks last month, is still recovering from the torn ACL he suffered last year. Dallas announced that he won't be playing this season.
The Mavericks are excited about the prospect of pairing Kristaps with rookie sensation Luka Doncic, which is why they traded for the four-year veteran despite the uncertainties surrounding his health.
Before he went down with the injury, Porzingis was averaging 22.7 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game. He was also shooting 43.9 percent from the field, including 39.5 percent from deep.
If Porzingis returns healthy next season, the Mavs will be instant contenders, as he gives the team an efficient low-post scorer and a terrific rim protector. He will also complement Doncic well, especially if they are able to perfect the pick-and-roll game.
Porzingis has shown nothing but positives since his arrival with in Dallas. When he's not training in the gym, he travels with the team during road games and gives pointers when he feels that it will help them win. He's also been watching game films in order to be familiar with coach Rick Carlisle's system.
It is clear that Kristaps sees a bright future with the Mavs, which is why his excitement is justified. After all, he has been frustrated with the Knicks for a couple of years.
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