There was a time when New York Knicks fans were in disgust when big man Kristaps Porzingis was selected fourth overall in the 2015 National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft, but now they are celebrating as the rookie continues his rise in the league.
In the Knicks' most recent success, Porzingis shone to lead his team to a 107–102 victory over the Houston Rockets Saturday on the road.
The Latvian sensation had a double-double performance, tallying 24 points and 14 rebounds that came along with two assists and seven blocks in 36 minutes of action.
"I think every game, I'm feeling more and more comfortable. A few shots are going in, and hopefully, I'll continue shooting this way," Porzingis stated, according to the Associated Press.
The rookie got plenty of help in the win over Houston which also extended their winning streak to four games.
Offseason addition guard Arron Afflalo contributed 16 points, six rebounds, and three assists.
Franchise star forward Carmelo Anthony had 14 points and six rebounds, while veteran point guard José Calderón added 11 points, seven assists, and one steal.
The Knicks also got help from their bench which were led by reserve playmaker Langston Galloway who recorded 12 points, with three rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block.
Saturday's win improved New York's record to 8–6 as the team now sits on the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Knicks will continue their road trip and will play two more games against the Miami Heat on Monday and the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, before heading back home to Madison Square Garden on Friday for a rematch with the Heat.
On the other hand, Houston is still trying hard to find success losing its second consecutive when they fell to the Knicks.
Leading the way for the Rockets was All-Star guard James Harden who had a double-double 24 points with 10 assists, also having seven rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
The Rockets are now 5–9 after the defeat to New York and are 11th in the Western Conference.
