Enes Kanter calls out Knicks after big playoff opener

Enes Kanter is in the playoffs after an unhappy first part of the season with the New York Knicks, and he’s even flourishing.

Kanter stepped into the starting lineup for Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder and took on a starring role, putting up 20 points and 18 rebounds. It wasn’t bad for a guy that the Knicks essentially relegated to the bench during the latter part of his tenure, and he wasn’t afraid to say so after Portland’s 104-99 win.

Kanter: “I was on the worst team in the league and I wasn’t playing because they thought I was too old.” Says he’s blessed to be playing for the Blazers in the playoffs.

— Sean Highkin (@highkin) April 14, 2019

As the Knicks went in a younger direction, Kanter was benched, which he rather vocally protested against. Ultimately, he was given his release and landed in Portland, who are reaping the benefits. He’s never been particularly shy, so the Knicks will have to wear this one, even if their decision was defensible.