Fans Boo New York Knicks First Round NBA Draft Pick Kristaps Porzingis

On Thursday night, the Barclay Center was the scene of many dreams coming true for several young ball players. However, the scene wasn't so serene for one player in particular. When it was announced that the Knicks would be selecting Kristaps Porzingis of Latvia in the first round, the skinny 7'1 forward was blasted with a smattering of boos. His dream seemed to upset a few New Yorkers.

Phil Jackson said Porzingis was worth the risk.

"The first round went in a way that we anticipated it might. Kristaps fell to us, and we thought the risk-reward was greatest with this guy perhaps in the whole lottery," Jackson said. "I think our fans are going to like him."

There was speculation that Jackson would draft Porzingis and then trade him to another team and even get another pick in the draft. That won't be the case though. Jackson says he plans on keeping Porzingis despite several scouts saying he isn't ready to contribute at an NBA level.

Porzingis acknowledged his critics during the draft. He said he won't end up becoming a bust.

"For those people who don't know me, they may think I'm soft, European, who just likes basketball. There have been busts before, but I'm different," he told the Daily News. "I really love the game and I'm very hungry and looking forward to playing in the best league in the world against the best players in the world. It's my passion about the game that sets me apart."

Some say he isn't ready but other scouts believe Porzingis has the ability to be the best player in the draft. They say one of the most important things he can do to help improve himself is adding some weight to his skinny 230 pound lanky frame.

Do you think Porzingis will end up being a factor in improving the Knicks?