Published 12:49 IST, November 15th 2019
NBA: Kristaps Porzingis jeered by Knicks' fans on his MSG return, gets hostile reception
NBA news: Dallas Mavericks forward and center Kristaps Porzingis did not receive a warm welcome by the New York Knicks fans in his MSG return on Thursday night
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New York Knicks fans did t give Dallas Mavericks forward and former Knicks player Kristaps Porzingis a warm welcome when he returned to play against Knicks at Madison Square Garden, New York on Thursday night (EST). crowd chanted 'KP sucks' as Porzingis played. According to NBA reports, some fans also yelled 'traitor' during national anm and asked Porzingis to return to Latvia.
NBA news: Kristaps Porzingis booed by Knicks crowd at MSG return
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Porzingis was picked by Knicks in fourth overall draft in 2015. seven-footer became a fan favourite during his rookie year and averd at 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.9 blocks. His performance improved over years, and he was picked for NBA 2017-18 All-Star game where he averd at a team-high 22.7 points. However, he suffered from a torn ACL on February 6, 2018, after a dunk while playing Milwaukee Bucks. Kristaps Porzingis was sidelined for rest of season. His relation with Knicks declined after incident and he requested a trade on January 31, 2019, according to NBA reports.
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Knicks traded him to Dallas Mavericks. y signed Porzingis to a five-year $158 million off-season deal in 2019. Porzingis returned to play after his 20-month break at start of NBA 2019-20 season. However, Porzingas did t seem to mind reaction by Knicks fans and ended match with 20 points and 11 rebounds. He is currently averaging at 18.3 points and 7.9 per game for Mavericks. Mavericks are at 6-2 while Knicks started game with an Eastern Conference worst 2-9 mark. Both teams have more scheduled regular-season games.
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11:43 IST, November 15th 2019