The Knicks thought they had a something special when they drafted Kristaps Porzingis with the fourth overall pick in the 2015 draft. They knew they had something special when he exceeded even the highest of expectations during his stellar rookie season. But even the Knicks have to be surprised with the improvement and development of Porzingis in his second NBA season.

After struggling defensively and not rebounding as well as he should have in his rookie season, Kristaps Porzingis has improved on both fronts as a sophomore. His ability to contribute substantially on both ends of the floor is why so many in the Knicks organization are so high on him.

According to SB Nation, Kristaps Porzingis became the first player in New York franchise history to block at least two shots and make at least two three-pointers in four straight games. At just 21 years old, is on pace to become just the seventh player in NBA history to average at least 20 points, seven rebounds and two three-pointers per game.

In addition, Porzingis leads the team in most advanced metrics. He is first on the team in PER (19.8) and also leads the team in VORP, offensive win shares and defensive win shares.

New York "Knicks" are at their best when they make a concerted effort to feature Porzingis. New York is 7-3 this season when his Usage Rate is north of 25 percent. They are just 3-7 in the 10 games in which KP's usage rate dips below 25 percent. The "Knicks" are 8-3 when he plays more than 33 minutes. They are 0-4 when he plays less than 30 minutes, NBA has learned.

Last season, when he wasn't knocking down shots, he would have a difficult time finding other ways to contribute. This season, that hasn't been the case. For instance, he is shooting just 31.1 percent from the floor and a frigid 18.8 percent from downtown over New York's last three games, but has also grabbed 31 rebounds, blocked eight shots and posted a positive plus/minus in those the games - all Knick wins.

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