2. Nerlens Noel

When the New York Knicks announced the signing of Nerlens Noel in the offseason, many feared it would detract from the development of Mitchell Robinson. Those worries have dissipated as Robinson earned the starting gig. Now, those worries should have turned to thankfulness. Without that signing, the Knicks would be in trouble at center.

Nerlens Noel hasn’t quite developed as people had hoped when he was the No. 6 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft out of Kentucky. However, if there is one thing Noel can hang his hat on, it is his defense.

New York’s starting five shouldn’t miss a beat defensively, as Nerlens Noel should slide right into the starting center spot. While not as long as Mitchell Robinson, Noel is just as much of a deterrent around the rim. He is averaging a career-high-tying 1.9 blocks per game this season despite playing only 17.6 minutes per game.

In his career as a starter, Nerlens Noel has averaged 10.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.7 blocks and 1.7 steals per game. While he wasn’t scoring as much, those numbers are pretty close to what Mitchell Robinson was giving the Knicks this season.

It wouldn’t be unrealistic to expect Nerlens Noel to provide at least eight points and rebounds per game to go with at least 1.5 steals and blocks as well. The former Wildcat is finding his stride, blocking at least three shots in four consecutive games.

Playing on a one-year deal, this is as good of a chance as any that Nerlens Noel will have to improve his stock and land a multi-year deal in free agency following the season. While he may never be an impact player scoring the ball, his defense is good enough to have a major positive impact on the game.