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Report: Porzingis' physiotherapist moving to NY from Spain

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports / Media Express

Kristaps Porzingis is adding a new tool to his arsenal: Easier access to his longtime physiotherapist.

Manolo Valdivieso, who's worked closely with Porzingis since his time playing in Europe, is reportedly relocating from Spain to New York City in order to dedicate his attention to the Knicks' blue chip big man this season, according to the New York Post's Marc Berman.

Valdivieso will reportedly be paid by Porzingis himself, and will travel with the 22-year-old on road trips.

“He’s been with me (for a while), we’ll keep working together, keep helping me out,’’ Porzingis told Berman after Sunday’s practice. “He’ll be wherever I am. He knows me the best, knows my body the best. He worked with me when I was 17, 18 years old.’’

Porzingis has missed 26 games over his first two seasons. With the league cracking down on healthy players sitting out games for rest, the Latvian's ability to endure an 82-game season, especially having featured heavily for his national team this summer, will be crucial to the Knicks' outlook this season.

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