For Knicks, 2015-16 Is All About the Youth Movement

Thanasis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo has intrigued every NBA fan who has seen him play for the Milwaukee Bucks. He’s a 6’11” perimeter player who can play point guard, defend multiple positions and run the floor in fewer strides than just about anyone in the league.

In 2015-16, the New York Knicks will look for a similar impact from his older brother: Thanasis Antetokounmpo.

Thanasis and Giannis are very different players, and that should be stated from the start. The Knicks’ Antetokounmpo is more about energy and tenacity than skill, and that’s what makes him such a great fit.

For a team in desperate need of a lockdown defender, Antetokounmpo could be the missing piece.

A two-time All-Defensive Team selection in the D-League, Antetokounmpo uses his size, length and strength to contain opponents. He’s also improved dramatically as a scorer, rebounder and general playmaker.

If Antetokounmpo lives up to his potential, and that’s never guaranteed, the Knicks would have an All-Defensive Team mainstay with offensive value on its hands.

Next: Rebounding from a Rough Rookie Year