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New York Knicks: Does Enes Kanter deserve more playing time?

By Mark Wilson

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 27: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks celebrates his basket in the second half as Joe Harris #12 of the Brooklyn Nets looks on at Madison Square Garden on October 27, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 27: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks celebrates his basket in the second half as Joe Harris #12 of the Brooklyn Nets looks on at Madison Square Garden on October 27, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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The New York Knicks have spent their focus on the play of Kristaps Porzingis following the Carmelo Anthony trade, but Enes Kanter deserves a few looks

It’s no secret that Kristaps Porzongis is the clear-cut leader of the New York Knicks following the Carmelo Anthony trade this offseason. However, Enes Kanter could be the helping hand that was never offered to Anthony.

During his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Kanter was overshadowed by Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, and even Steven Adams. While Adams was the starter, it was Kanter who provided the real lift on both sides of the floor.

When Kanter was traded to the Knicks, fans reacted with a “who” when his name was mentioned. What they didn’t know was how valuable he was to OKC. To value what Kanter brings to the table you must focus on his minutes per game. During his time with the Thunder, Kanter only played 23 minutes per game but averaged 14 points and eight rebounds on 56 percent shooting.

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Fast forward to the Knicks and he’s playing the 25 minutes while posting averages of 14 points and 11 rebounds on 61 percent shooting. Solid numbers, right?

Now think how solid they would be if Kanter were given more playing time.

The future is bright with Porzingis and Kanter

Porzingis and Tim Hardayway Jr. are on the court the most for the Knicks at 34 minutes per game, followed by Courtney Lee at 33. While Porzingis has been productive, the same can’t be said for Lee and Hardaway.

So why has Jeff Hornacek continued to keep Kanter’s minutes so low? Kyle O’Quinn has been productive in his 17 minutes of playing time but if the Knicks are serious about being contenders, Hornacek must find a way to increase Kanter’s load.

If Kanter can average 14 and 11 in 25, imagine what he could do in 34. He may not be known for his defensive presence yet; the Knicks are giving up the fourth-lowest points in the NBA. Kanter is a scorer and rebounder. Playing him more will space the floor better for their perimeter players like Hardaway and Lee who have struggled in that department this season.

To further the case for Kanter is the fact that he averages four offensive rebounds per game. Couple that with the two Porzingis averages and that’s six second-chance shots per game between the two of them. Mind you, that’s still from 24 minutes of action.

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The NBA is not as post heavy as it was 10 years ago which plays right into the hands of the Knicks. The Carmelo trade was good for the Thunder and confusing for Knicks fans but they are now realizing they have a diamond in the rough. It’s up to Jeff Hornacek to realize how valuable Enes Kanter is for the New York Knicks.

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