New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina flashes intriguing upside
New York Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina continues to show signs of improvement. On Thursday, Dec. 28, he had one of his best games yet.
The New York Knicks weren’t provided with many positive takeaways from the 119-107 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, Dec. 28. New York fought for most of the game, but ultimately fell apart on defense during the second half.
While the final score may have been disappointing, the clash with the Spurs provided Frank Ntilikina with yet a golden opportunity to make a statement.
When Ntilikina was selected at No. 8 overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, he immediately endured the wrath of an often unrelenting fan base. Many were hoping to see the Knicks select an offensive-minded guard who played a downhill style.
During his first career encounter with the greatest French player in NBA history, however, Ntilikina proved that he has the tools to anchor the point guard position for years to come.
Ntilikina stuffed the stat sheet, posting nine points, 11 assists, three rebounds, one offensive board, and three steals in 32 minutes action. He shot 1-of-2 from beyond the arc, committed just one turnover, and managed to accumulate a +/- of +4 in a 12-point loss.
In his first career game with at least 30 minutes played, Ntilikina eclipsed 10 assists for the first time in his NBA career—a career-night in multiple regards.
Still just 19 years of age, Ntilikina is already looking the part of a high-quality traditional point guard. His vision as a passer is beyond his years, just as his proficiency as an on-ball defender makes him look like a grizzled veteran.
Against the Spurs, it all seemed to come together for Ntilikina, as he facilitated the offense, locked in on defense, and even actively looked for his shot.
The performance against San Antonio continued what’s been an excellent month for the rookie. Through 14 December games, Ntilikina is averaging 11.2 points, 5.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 1.3 three-point field goals made per 36 minutes.
Ntilikina is shooting 41.4 percent from beyond the arc during that time, which may be the most significant upgrade he’s made to his game.
Entering December, Ntilikina had converted a grand total of eight three-point field goals on 25.0 percent shooting from distance. Since that 18-game stretch, he’s knocked down 12 three-point field goals in 14 appearances.
Not only is he converting at a more efficient clip, but he’s showing far less hesitance to shoot—as important a development as any.
It’s taken just 32 appearances for Ntilikina to establish the power of his work ethic. He’s received praise from the likes of Kyrie Irving and Tony Parker for his defensive prowess, as well as his maturity and poise under pressure.
The fact that Ntilikina is expanding his range to beyond the arc, however, is a product of how tirelessly he’s working to improve.
Many have been quick to point out Ntilikina’s flaws, but not enough attention has gone to the context of the situation. He’s just 19 years of age, is adjusting to a league with different rules than he’s accustomed to playing by, and never previously received strength and conditioning training.
Knowing all of that to be true, it’s safe to say that Ntilikina hasn’t even scratched the surface of what he’s capable of achieving—both athletically and in terms of his skill set.
Must Read: Tony Parker praises Frank Ntilikina
Against the San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina flashed the potential of a legitimate franchise point guard.
That upside is looking more realistic with every passing game.