New York Knicks: 5 realistic goals for Frank Ntilikina in 2017-18

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Strasbourg’s players Frank Ntilikina in action against MICHEL Felix 10 of Rouen during the Basket match LNB Pro A 2015-2016 between Strasbourg and Rouen, in Strasbourg, eastern France, on March 12, 2016. (Photo by Elyxandro Cegarra/NurPhoto) (Photo by Elyxandro Cegarra/NurPhoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

Honorable Mention: Limit Turnovers And Take Chances

There’s a thin line to be walked when a point guard is adjusting to playing in the NBA. It’s important to encourage said players to take chances, but it’s also imperative to limit turnovers and not sink their team’s opportunity to achieve victory.

In the curious case of Frank Ntilikina, the best thing that Jeff Hornacek can encourage his rookie point guard to do is take chances—within reason.

Winning takes precedence over all else, but the key to any rebuild is developing the younger players’ talents. In Ntilikina’s case, he has the tools to be a high-level facilitator and three-point shooter, as well as a lockdown defender.

One could argue that he can develop those abilities by playing within the system, but he must not be afraid to take chances and develop an understanding of what he can do.

Playing within the system is what Ntilikina has been doing throughout his career in the FIBA ranks. Now in the NBA, he must continue to do so, while simultaneously developing an understanding of his limitations and capabilities.

This has more to do with the coach than the player, but when Hornacek gives Ntilikina the green light, he must not be afraid to capitalize on those opportunities.

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