Kristaps Porzingis Injury: Updates on Knicks Star's Foot and Return
New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis suffered a right foot injury against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. However, he has been cleared to return to the court.
Continue for updates.
Porzingis Active vs. Jazz
Wednesday, Jan. 20
The Knicks announced Porzingis will play against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday.
Fisher Comments on Porzingis' Injury
Monday, Jan. 18
Head coach Derek Fisher told reporters that Porzingis could have continued to play on his injured foot but added that it "wasn't worth [the] risk."
Minor Injury Won't Slow Porzingis' Promising Season
If Porzingis would have been forced to miss significant time, it would have been a difficult blow for the Knicks, as the No. 4 overall pick has exceeded the high expectations that came with his lofty draft status. The 7’3” Latvian brings a unique skill set to the table because he can stretch the floor with perimeter and mid-range shooting, pull in a bevy of rebounds and swat shots into the stands.
From a potential standpoint, Porzingis has the skill set to be a primary scorer in the NBA for years to come after he picks up more experience. He is more than just a shooter thanks to his ability to attack the rim off the bounce and finish in the lane. Entering Monday, the rookie big man was averaging 13.9 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game.
The Knicks need Porzingis around to serve as a complementary scorer alongside Carmelo Anthony if they hope to challenge for a postseason berth in a fairly wide-open Eastern Conference.
