Last season, Willy Hernangomez earned a major role in Jeff Hornacek’s rotation. He appeared as a glimmer of hope in a season squandered by a feud between Phil Jackson and Carmelo Anthony. He started out the year as an unassuming rookie with little expectations, but quickly proved his worth to the New York Knicks.
Hernangomez, a former teammate of Kristaps Porzingis’ in Spain, charmed Knicks fans with polished post moves and timely bounding. He posted an average of 8.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game split over 72 games, which was good enough to be named to the All-Rookie 1st Team.