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New York Knicks: Every Free Agency Signing’s Key Strength

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reacts during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reacts during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 13, 2015; Tulsa, OK, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Maurice Daly Ndour (10) drives to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder center Steven Adams (12) during the third quarter at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 13, 2015; Tulsa, OK, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Maurice Daly Ndour (10) drives to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder center Steven Adams (12) during the third quarter at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Maurice Daly Ndour: Defensive Versatility

Position: Forward
Age: 24 (6/18/1992)
2015-16 Slash Line (Liga ACB): .500/.500/.636
2015-16 Season Averages (Liga ACB): 9.6 MPG, 2.3 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 0.3 ORPG, 0.7 BPG

A year ago, New York Knicks fans were pleading with team president Phil Jackson to sign Maurice Daly Ndour. Ndour was the star of the Knicks’ 2015 Summer League team as an energy guy with a versatile offensive attack, defensive potential, and explosive athleticism.

Though his offensive game is intriguing, Ndour’s greatest strength will be his combination of energy, athleticism, and defense.

Ndour measured at 6’8″ and 200 pounds with a massive 7’4″ wingspan and a 9’1″ standing reach at Portsmouth in 2015. His weight is relatively low, but he’s built powerfully and has otherwise elite physical gifts for a small or power forward.

Ndour is also an explosive leaper who can alter shots at the rim and rack up blocks as an intimidating force down low.

It’ll be interesting to see how Jeff Hornacek utilizes Ndour as it pertains to his position in 2016-17. He has the athleticism to play small forward, albeit with an approach to the game that seems to be more fitting for a 4.

Regardless of which position he plays at, Ndour is the type of defensive player who should give the Knicks options on defense.

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