Paul Pierce compares Kristaps Porzingis to Andrea Bargnani

Although by no means if Porzingis on the same level of Dirk Nowitzki just yet, perhaps Pierce is being a bit to harsh comparing him to Andrea Bargnani so soon. Bargnani, a seven-foot power forward like Porzingis, was the first overall pick of the 2006 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors, and has a largely been a disappointment for his entire career.

Now with the Nets, Bargnani is averaging 7.2 points per game thus far this season. Porzingis, 19, on the other hand, is averaging 12 points per game in five games for a Knicks team that looks to be improved by his presence.

While Pierce's sentiment of tempering expectations regarding Porzingis is a valid one, comparing him to Andrea Bargnani already might be going just a little overboard. But hey, as a man destined for the Basketball Hall of Fame, Pierce may know something we don't.