David Fizdale Calls Kristaps Porzingis the 'Future of the NBA' in Knicks Presser

The New York Knicks officially introduced new head coach David Fizdale with a press conference Tuesday morning at Madison Square Garden. He said he'll work "tirelessly" to rebuild the storied organization's culture after five straight losing seasons.

Fizdale, who was fired by the Memphis Grizzlies in November after compiling a 50-51 record across just over a season, said he's "excited" for the new challenge that lies ahead.

The 43-year-old Los Angeles native inherits a roster led by power forward Kristaps Porzingis, and he had high praise for the Latvian superstar.

"He's the future of the NBA," Fizdale told reporters.

Here's a look at some other notable comments from Tuesday's meeting with the media:

Looking ahead, the Knicks must build a more complete roster around Porzingis in order to reach the playoffs consistently and eventually compete for championships. Hiring Fizdale, who gained the reputation as one of the NBA's top assistants with the Miami Heat, may help attract talent.

Expectations should be kept within reason for his first season unless the front office is able to acquire more star power through free agency and the draft. New York has a 1.7 percent chance (ninth-best) of winning the draft lottery next Tuesday. Marc Berman of the New York Post reported the Knicks are planning to make a push for LeBron James during the summer.

A core of James and Porzingis would make the team an immediate threat in the Eastern Conference.