Knicks heart Ariel Hukporti made his first profession begin in Wednesday’s victory over Philadelphia, recording eight factors, two rebounds and a block in 16 minutes. Sadly, the German huge man additionally suffered a major damage throughout the recreation.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the 22-year-old is predicted to be sidelined for the subsequent 4 to 6 weeks after struggling a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Steve Popper of Newsday confirms that Hukporti shall be out for an prolonged interval, although he hears the staff remains to be evaluating the check outcomes. It’s not but sure that Hukporti sustained a meniscus damage.
The 58th and ultimate decide of the 2024 draft, Hukporti has obtained sporadic enjoying time throughout his rookie season, averaging 1.9 factors and a couple of.0 rebounds in 8.7 minutes per recreation throughout 25 appearances.
It’s a tricky blow for Hukporti, who was initially signed to a two-way contract however was transformed to a regular deal in early November partially to navigate New York’s wage cap state of affairs. The Knicks maintain a minimum-salary staff choice on his contract for 2025-26.
If Hukporti is ready to return on the conservative finish of the timeline Charania reported — six weeks — he would again simply in time for the top of the common season in mid-April. Returning sooner would clearly give him extra time to arrange because the Knicks put together for a playoff push — they’re presently the No. 3 seed within the East, with a report of 38-20.
On a extra optimistic be aware, Mitchell Robinson is reportedly on observe to make his season debut this weekend, so he ought to assist fortify the Knicks’ frontcourt depth, which shall be just a little extra skinny with Hukporti out. Precious Achiuwa is one other candidate for extra minutes at backup heart.
