New York Knicks: Five reasons to love the Frank Ntilikina selection

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Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Frank Ntilikina of France holds up a team jersey after being introduced as the number eight overall pick to the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Defensive Potential

The single most intriguing trait that Frank Ntilikina possesses is his potential on the defensive end of the floor. Not only does he have an elite physical profile for a point guard, but he’s displayed a willingness to defend at a high level.

Following the selection, New York Knicks team president Phil Jackson cited Ntilikina’s defense as a primary reason for the investment.

Phil Jackson said Frank Ntilikina's potential on defense played a big role in the Knicks selecting him.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 23, 2017

That’s wonderful news for the Knicks.

Standing at 6’5″ and 170 pounds with a 7’0″ wingspan, Ntilikina has the size and length to lock players down at both guard positions. He’s not necessarily an explosive athlete, but he moves fluidly and can shuffle his feet in an adequate manner.

As Ntilikina’s frame fills out, he should be able to do an even better job of keeping slashers in front of him on the drive.

It’s also worth noting that Ntilikina should be capable of creating turnovers with his length and active hands. He averaged 1.5 steals per 36 minutes in 2016-17 with Strasbourg, and should produce even better numbers in the free-flowing NBA.

For a Knicks team that ranked No. 23 in points allowed per game, No. 25 in points allowed per 100 possessions, and No. 29 in points created via turnovers in 2016-17, Ntilikina could be a revelation.

Must Read: Who is the greatest point guard in New York Knicks history?

Welcome to the New York Knicks, Frank Ntilikina.

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