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New York Knicks: 5 realistic goals for Ron Baker in 2017-18

By Maxwell Ogden

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 31: Ron Baker #31 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on March 31, 2017 at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, Florida. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 31: Ron Baker #31 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on March 31, 2017 at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, Florida. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 05: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors in action against Ron Baker #31 and Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 5, 2017 in New York City. The Warriors defeated the Knicks 112-105. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 05: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors in action against Ron Baker #31 and Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 5, 2017 in New York City. The Warriors defeated the Knicks 112-105. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

1. Defend At A High Level

Ron Baker won the respect of his coaches and teammates with the level of intensity he displayed on the defensive end of the floor. Unfortunately, Baker’s intensity wasn’t exactly matched by the quality of his execution—an expected outcome for a rookie.

In 2017-18, Baker’s primary goal should be proving that he can consistently defend at a high level—something that could alone guarantee his place in the NBA.

Baker has outstanding measurements for a point guard at just over 6’4″ and 212 pounds with a near 6’10” wingspan. He’s not the most explosive of athletes, but he moves well enough to put those physical gifts to use.

Between Baker at 6’4″ with a near 6’10” wingspan, and Frank Ntilikina at 6’5″ with a projected 7’0″ wingspan, the Knicks’ point guards could overwhelm opposing backcourts defensively.

Baker’s defensive progression may be the safest bet, as his work ethic and motor are second to none on New York’s roster. Between the way he dives for loose balls, sprints back on defense, and throws caution to the wind when taking charges, Baker is nothing short of respectable.

If Baker polishes his footwork and keeps one hand up and the other in the passing lane, his defense could be enough to earn him a permanent spot in Jeff Hornacek’s rotation.

Must Read: 5 reasons to love the trade for Doug McDermott

Ron Baker was a surprising inclusion on Steve Mills’ list of core players, but he’ll have a chance to justify the leap of faith in 2017-18. The New York Knicks will need him to.

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