While the shorthanded Knicks were on the wrong side of a 118-91 decision in the city of brotherly love, Mozgov was nothing short of dominant. The 7-foot-1, 250-pound import finished the game with 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists in just over 36 minutes of action.

Still a bit of a mystery, Mozgov’s intriguing combination of size, power and athleticism were on full display. He kept defenders off balance by mixing in his low post moves along with athletic drives to the hoop. And, as has been the case all preseason, he finished strong at the hoop with a series of dramatic power dunks.

In addition to his offensive prowess, Mozgov has been a force each night on the defensive end as well. Even though he failed to record a block for the second straight game, he continued to make his presence felt, clogging the lane and forcing numerous altered shots and bad passes.

While the Knicks had high hopes for Mozgov entering the season, they knew there were serious hurdles the 24-year old would have to overcome both on the court and off. Mozgov speaks little English, although he is improving each day, and is slowly but surely adapting to American culture. The Knicks were confident he would overcome these obstacles, but even D’Antoni admits he has quickly surpassed their expectations.

"We hoped (he would adapt quickly)," D'Antoni said. "We were afraid to say it. Not starting for (his) team in Russia and averaging four or five points, it's hard to imagine him starting for an NBA team trying to make the playoffs."

Now, after a remarkable preseason, there is more than a realistic chance that is exactly what will happen when the 2010-11 season tips off on October 27 in Toronto.