The centre-back was involved in another goal as Albion drew with Everton.
His progressive passing has been a feature of his team’s work on the ball and was in evidence as Pascal Gross struck at the Amex.
Fellow Dutchman Bart Verbruggen told The Argus: “I've known him for seven, eight years and in those years he has always been progressing.
“He has always been a good player but he kept on getting better and he still is getting better.
“It's a big privilege to play with him. Just as a player, but then also as a person.
“He’s massive for us, I think everybody can see that, and his quality we don't even have to discuss, because I think it's clear for everybody to see.”
Van Hecke and sidekick Lewis Dunk both had glowing praise from Verbruggen and Dunk for their defensive efforts in the Everton game.
They will target a clean sheet on Sunday against a Crystal Palace side likely to have record signing Jorgen Strand Larsen up front for the first time.
Albion appear to have the option of extending their Dutch connection by bringing Joel Veltman, who tends to relish the Palace games, back into defence.
The right-back looked to be playing a full part in training this week, albeit with strapping above and below his left knee.