New York Knicks: Holiday wishlist for the 2017-18 NBA season
By Brad Wier
Start Frank Ntilikina
Head coach Jeff Hornacek deserves a lot of credit for the team’s early success. He has played some great, unconventional lineups that have really helped propel the Knicks to their 17-15 record.
He does, however, need to make a starting lineup change. As great of a job as Jarret Jack has done, he’s not a starting-caliber point guard in the NBA. He’s 34 years old and isn’t getting any better.
It’s time for Frank Ntilikina to start for the Knicks.
At only 19 years of age, Ntilikina is one of the youngest players in the league. He’s already shown flashes of his star potential, even at his young age. Ntilikina has drawn high praise from his coaches, as well as star players around the league, for his poise and defense.
He usually closes games and seemingly hits a clutch three-pointer in the fourth quarter of every competitive game.
Jack is a good facilitator, but a poor defender who ranks No. 49 amongst point guards in defensive real plus-minus. Jack has a tendency of fouling needlessly and his poor defense is exemplified when it occurs in the fourth.
He’s had multiple games during which, in the last couple of minutes, he fouls a 3-point attempt. This not only is a bad play, but allows opponents to come back easier. While Ntilikina may be erratic on the offensive end, he seemingly gets better with every game he plays.
More experience would be beneficial for the young guard.
If Ntilikina enters the starting lineup, it could do wonders for his self-confidence and perhaps push his game to a higher level. Coach Hornacek usually allows Ntilikina. to close games.
It’s time for him to start them, as well.