Guerschon Yabusele, the Knicks' new addition, is facing scrutiny, but he's choosing to focus on his game, not the chatter about his weight. This is the core of the story, and it's a testament to his mental fortitude.
Yabusele has heard the whispers about his physique. But instead of getting caught up in the noise, he's staying focused on what he can control: his performance on the court. He simply isn't letting it bother him.
"People say whatever they want to say," Yabusele stated. "If you guys check with my weight from last year, it’s the same. So last year it wasn’t a problem, why is it a problem this year? And I’m actually less than last year.”
But here's where it gets controversial... The media and fans have been quick to speculate, but Yabusele's weight seems to be a point of confusion. The Knicks list him at 283 pounds, which would place him among the heaviest players in the NBA. However, some websites had him listed at a lighter 265 pounds last season, which was apparently incorrect. According to the media guide from his time with the 76ers, he weighed 279 pounds.
Regardless of the numbers, Yabusele insists that his weight isn't an issue. He feels good and is in great shape, ready to navigate his shooting struggles and limited playing time on his new team. His focus is on the game, not the speculation.
It's safe to say Yabusele isn't built like your typical guard. His body type is more akin to a linebacker, which provides him with strength and power.
Coming off a successful season with the Sixers, the Knicks signed him to a two-year, $11 million contract, with a player option for the second year. He was seen as a key acquisition, expected to be a top frontcourt reserve as the Knicks aimed for a championship run.
And this is the part most people miss... However, under new coach Mike Brown's fast-paced system, Yabusele is struggling to find his rhythm. He's averaging just 2.7 points in 10.5 minutes per game, with shooting percentages of 34.9% overall and 27.6% from beyond the arc.
Before OG Anunoby's injury, Yabusele had consecutive games where he played six minutes or fewer. In a recent game against the Nets, he played only 12 minutes, despite key players being out. His shifts on the court are short, and he hasn't played more than 17 minutes total before a recent game.
Coach Brown sets a predetermined minutes sheet before each game, which is a difficult reality for Yabusele, who averaged over 27 minutes last season and captained the French national team. The Knicks had high expectations when they signed him.
"Of course it is [hard]. I can’t lie about it,” Yabusele admitted. “Today is a different situation. Of course I was playing more minutes last year, too. I’m just trying to fit in my new role and be the best I can.”
Yabusele's shooting struggles aren't helping his case. He went from shooting 38% on 3.9 three-point attempts per game last season to 27.6% on 1.9 attempts with the Knicks before a recent game.
However, he can point to a recent improvement, with a 4-for-11 conversion rate in the six games leading up to a game in Charlotte.
"Shots are always up and down, especially in the season,” Yabusele said. “If you look back at last season, some games I was making more than other games. Sometimes it’s not going in and sometimes it goes in. So I’m going to keep working every day, coming to the gym and make sure to get those shots. And when I get in the game, try to be prepared.”
Yabusele maintains that conditioning isn't the problem. He feels good on the court and is in great shape, focusing on staying prepared for his opportunities.
What do you think? Do you believe the focus on Yabusele's weight is justified, or is it a distraction from his on-court performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
