Carmelo Anthony says Kristaps Porzingis is future leader of Knicks

“He’s going to lead this organization long after I'm retired,” Carmelo Anthony said of Kristaps Porzingis.

New York Knicks rookie power forward Kristaps Porzingis has come a long way from the booing he received when he was selected in the first round of the 2015 NBA draft.

Over 15 games this season, Porzingis is averaging 13.7 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.

Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony, who has four years left on his contract with team, is confident Porzingis will become the face of the franchise once Anthony hangs up his own jersey.

“He’s going to lead this organization long after I’m retired,” Anthony said. “Hopefully we can hoist one or two [championship trophies] before that happens.”

As for their relationship, Anthony says they are “building it.” The teammates began working out together and playing one-on-one games over the summer in preparation for the season.

“I'm here to help him and use my experience and help him get his feet wet, and he's doing a pretty good job,” Anthony said.

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But Anthony does not want the credit for Porzingis’s early success.

“He's doing a good job on his own,” Anthony said. “Learning the game and getting a feel for the game. You can see each game he’s getting better.”

The Knicks (8–7) are scheduled to play the Orlando Magic (6–8) on Wednesday.

- Xandria James