NBA
Wind Of Change? Fizdale Meets Porzingis
Head coach David Fizdale, who was hired by the Knicks on May 7th (29th coach in franchise’s history), plans to meet with the young star Kristaps Porzingis on his introductory press meeting. First time All Star is currently on a rehab for the ACL injury he suffered on February 6th. In addition he has spent quite some time in Europe doing so. The Knicks flagman said that he plans to build a good relationship with Porzingis. In addition, he will make it a top priority for this summer. Also, he promised to visit the PF in his home country, Latvia.
Fizdale reportedly went to Latvia a few days ago. There’s already some footage of their meeting as they were seen in Porzingis hometown. Both coach and player watched the British team on practice in Liepāja’s Olympic Center.
U18m met New York Knicks player Kristaps Porzingis and the new Knicks HC David Fizdale before practice today in Latvia. They stayed to watch a few minutes. #BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/bkptEAZTxl
— GB Basketball (@gbbasketball) July 25, 2018
One of the topics to be discussed per Fizdale will be this years Knicks’ draft picks. Fizdale plans to show some film of Knicks Summer League performance to Porzingis. This way, the PF can have a glimpse of the roster’s offseason progress. In addition, to getting to know their newest additions. Porzingis has already contacted the 9th overall pick of the draft – Kevin Knox II. The 18 years old rookie had similar experience as Porzingis on draft night. Like the 4th overall on 2015th before, Knox told that the boos will work as motivation for him. Porzingis used the same advice for the young forward. Knox finished his Summer League stint as a member of its First Team.
Summer League for Knox
Both Knicks staff and fan base had another surprise in Summer League – the 36th pick as Mitchell Robinson displayed impressive athleticism. Additionally, the young center averaged 4 blocks and 6.2 offensive rebounds per game. Nonetheless, both of these stats the most in Summer League history.
Another discussion topic definitely will be Fizdale’s views on how he plans to use Porzingis on the court. Knicks fans may be in for many surprises because of Fizdale’s recent statements. The coach likes idea of position-less basketball and having physically gifted talents.
David Fizdale: “I have a crush on wingspan.”
— Stefan Bondy (@SBondyNYDN) July 5, 2018
Liepāja is known as Latvia’s city of wind therefore Knicks fans should prepare for a warm breeze in shape of a growing partnership.