In recent news, New York Knicks star Kristaps Porzingis made headlines for expressing his fatigue from the Knicks' recent stretch in their schedule. His comments caused quite a disturbance among fans and the media, while some people even questioned whether the Latvian-born power forward was suitable to become the Knicks' franchise player. In order to quell the ongoing fuss, the Knicks' star openly described what he meant when he stated that he was “tired” to Marc Berman of the New York Post.

“All I know is of course after a playing a back-to-back, everyone feels tired if you play hard. It does matter to have a day in between. It was a strategy to make the Miami Heat relax a little bit. ‘Oh he’s tired.’ That’s why I did it. I feel good today. Don’t tell them.’’

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Porzingis credits his relaxed state of mind to his day off in Miami, which was his first break after a back-to-back. The Knicks are set to play the Heat today, and Porzingis seems ready to take the challenge. He even had a response for those who have questioned his role as the Knicks' franchise player, and whether it has taken a toll on him because of his young age.

“It’s physically harder [but] that’s something I was preparing myself for,’’ Porzingis said. “It’s not something, all of a sudden it hit me and now I have to prepare myself for it. I have to be ready for it if I want to be the guy. There can’t be any excuses with so many minutes I’m playing.”

Porzingis is currently averaging 23.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. He looks prime to receive his first All-Star selection of his career.