New York Knicks: Reasons To Love The Ron Baker Signing

Mar 17, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) high-fives a fan after a victory over the Arizona Wildcats in a first round game of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Dunkin Donuts Center. Wichita State won 65-55. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 19, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) defends Miami (Fl) Hurricanes guard Ja /

Complementary Skill: On-Ball Defense

Ron Baker proved during his time with the Wichita State Shockers that he’s willing to get physical on defense. He’s not exactly Tony Allen as an on-ball defender, but he’s committed and willing to defend his position.

In the modern NBA, where 3-and-D players are as valuable as they’ve ever been, Baker has the potential to be a plus defender.

Baker is a 6’4″ and 212-pound guard with a wingspan that measures just under 6’10”. In other words, he has the necessary physical gifts to take on slashers and shooters at both guard positions.

That versatility is valuable in any system, let alone one with some admittedly suspect perimeter defenders.

Though he isn’t necessarily an elite athlete, Baker has the speed and agility to keep a player in front of him. While he isn’t necessarily a dominant ball-hawk, he has the active hands to force a ball-handler to keep his dribble close to his body.

Baker has the raw potential to thrive in similar ways to Danny Green with the San Antonio Spurs, and that alone is worth exploring.

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