Enes Kanter joined the New York Knicks this offseason and is already adjusting very well to life in the Big Apple as the team’s newest center.
As the New York Knicks look to sharpen up before the start of the 2017-18 NBA season, there is already another newcomer making noise on and off the court. The always outspoken Enes Kanter has shown no fear of the infamous New York media since being traded to the Knicks two weeks ago for All-Star Carmelo Anthony.
The former Oklahoma City Thunder big man is looking for a great new opportunity with the Knicks as he will battle for playing time at the center position. Kanter will be battling with incumbent starter Willy Hernangomez and veteran Joakim Noah for playing time at center, but his superior low-post offense could garner him more attention. The 25-year-old from Turkey has spent time with the Utah Jazz as well as the Thunder, posting career averages of 11.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.
Kanter’s abilities to score in the low post and grab rebounds were critical for the Thunder during their playoff runs. He was the sixth man off the bench last season, posting double figure numbers in 21.3 minutes per game. His scoring boost off the bench was important, but it was noted that he struggled defensively compared to starter Steven Adams.
In his first preseason game as a member of the Knicks Tuesday night, Kanter showed some signs of being a threat in the low post. His 17 points in only 17 minutes were just what Knicks fans needed from a center off the bench, as the offense ran through him to set up others from the outside at times. New York would go on to lose 115-107 to the Brooklyn Nets, but it was still a solid debut for Kanter and the many other new Knicks.
Kanter made news after the game in a interview with reporters, revealing his plan to take a knee during the pregame national anthem. The NBA has encouraged players to be opinionated in regards to their thoughts on issues, but have tried to avoid the problems facing the NFL.
"“We did it as a team,’’ Kanter said. “If it was up to me, yeah, I’d take a knee. We decided not to take a knee. It was a team decision. I say this every time, I feel like the most important thing in America is to speak out for equality and justice. If you don’t see those two things in America, I feel really bad and it’s breaking my heart. What they’re fighting for is right. I’m here, but I know same things are in my own country.”"
Kanter has always had a very open and honest relationship with the media and fans in every city. The surprising trade from Oklahoma City led to Kanter releasing an emotional video thanking Oklahoma City and the Turkish community while embracing his new fans in New York.
"“I just want to say I can’t thank you enough to you guys. You guys did everything for me. And lastly, I want to say please take care of the Turkish community here because they love you. Thanks.“That’s all I can say right now. I got no hard feelings. I understand it’s a business. I’m not mad or anything, don’t get me wrong. I love you guys. It’s a new adventure for me, New York. Please pray for me, I hope we gonna have an amazing season with the New York Knicks. I’ll see you guys soon. I appreciate it.”"
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Kanter is a unique talent that will be a big help for the Knicks as the season progresses but it will be his connection with the fans that will make him an instant crowd favorite.