One reason why the New York Knicks are so keen to trade Carmelo Anthony is because of their desire to build the franchise around Kristaps Porzingis.

The talented big man has shown in his two years in the Big Apple that he has the skills to become a star in the NBA and the Knicks are desperate to give him the reigns to flourish. 

The 22-year-old improved his numbers in almost every category last season compared to his rookie campaign as he averaged 18.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.0 blocks per game.

He also increased both his field goal and three-point percentages and was one of the only bright sparks in the Knicks' dismal year. 

Porzingis' future in New York has been in some doubt over the last few months as he grew frustrated with the front office and Phil Jackson, in particular, towards the end of the regular season.

He skipped an exit meeting with the team's hierarchy and Jackson was reportedly willing to listen to trade offers for the youngster. 

That was something that he and the team's management disagreed on and it led to the Zen Master being fired in June which outlined the organisation's commitment to Porzingis. 

They followed that up by picking up the team option on his contract for the 2018-19 season and with the unicorn tied down to New York for at least the next two years, he's fully focused on the Knicks and has revealed some lofty personal ambitions he wants to reach.

KP took to his Instagram account and said that he envisions himself being an All-Star next season. 

It's certainly a goal that he has every chance of achieving if he continues being productive at the level he has been.  

Health is maybe the only thing that can prevent the Latvian from becoming an All-Star for the first time. He missed 16 games last year due to injury, so if he remains healthy he has a realistic chance of heading to Los Angeles in February.

With Paul George, Jimmy Butler and Paul Millsap - three 2017 Eastern Conference All-Stars - departing for the west this offseason, there will be multiple forward spots opening up for the likes of Porzingis to take full advantage of. 

As he's one of the standout big men in the east, K-Porzee is more than likely to represent the Knicks.

He has consistently been posting workout videos and highlights on social media this summer as he looks to improve his game, it's now clear that he is focused on putting together an All-Star campaign.