Just when it seemed that Enes Kanter had found a home with the New York Knicks, some trouble in paradise looks to be brewing.
Kanter, who had started the last 18 games at center for the team, was benched for Thursday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks in favor of second-year big Luke Kornet. The New York Post’s Marc Berman reported that Kanter chose not to speak before the contest, saying he would address the move afterwards.
Fizdale's move to Luke Kornet tonight at center risks alienating Kanter, who declined to talk before game, saying he'll address it afterward. Knicks coaches like Kornet's ability to space floor and protect rim.
— Marc Berman (@NYPost_Berman) December 28, 2018
For what it’s worth, Kanter also tweeted a facepalm emoji in the hours prior:
— Enes Kanter (@Enes_Kanter) December 27, 2018
The 26-year-old Kanter, who is in a contract year, has always been a strong interior scorer and rebounder. However, he lacks shooting range and defensive chops, making him an imperfect starter in certain matchups.
Kanter has actually been at or near career bests with 14.9 points, 10.9 boards, and 2.0 assists per game this season. While he began the year as the Knicks’ starting center, he was leapfrogged by rookie Mitchell Robinson for roughly a month, but won the job back in mid-November. Still, this is looking like a December to forget for Kanter, who also took another L in recent days.
