New York Knicks: 5 keys for a more successful 2019

3. Getting Kristaps Porzingis back healthy

Back when Kristaps Porzingis went down with a torn ACL injury, the Knicks were left without a star. He has yet to appear in an NBA game this season as his recovery turns out to be a lengthier absence than expected.

The Porzingis-less Knicks fell way out of the 8-seed last year, as making the playoffs was not out of the question while the Unicorn was playing. Their 23-31 record ultimately ended up as a 29-53 record, placing them nowhere near a playoff spot.

As a result, it is easy to see how he is vital to the team’s success. Instead of rushing him back into action, the Knicks have taken a more protective approach, which might help them in the long run.

Ever since the season started, the Knicks haven’t been doing so great. Their 9-28 record can certainly back up that hypothesis. New York fans have withstood too many mediocre seasons to watch a star-less Knicks team every night on the court.

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Porzingis is a game-changer. Before he went out with an injury, he averaged 22.7 points and 2.4 blocks per game, and he was awarded his first All-Star selection, though his injury kept him from playing in the actual game.

Even though many New York fans booed him on draft night, he has been proving those doubters wrong since day one. He is the team’s franchise player and always a treat to watch on the court. Getting him back at 100 percent is paramount.