New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina proves point guard is in his future

Beyond The Numbers

Say what you will about his developing offensive game, but being able to defend the point guard position at a high level is crucial. Not only are there an abundance of stars at the position, but it’s often those players who initiate the offense.

To be able to limit their ability to do so is essentially preventing the opposition from executing at the level it’s aspiring to reach—a level of proficiency that Frank Ntilikina has consistently displayed.

On the other end of the floor, Ntilikina has flashed the skill level of a legitimate facilitator. He runs the pick and roll in a unique manner, which implies that utilizing said play with Kristaps Porzingis and the other bigs on the roster could become a sustainable method of execution.

Furthermore, Ntilikina makes it a point to push the pace and get the ball up court in as quick a manner as possible—a trait that’s too often undervalued.

A 19-year-old who had never played in the NBA was inevitably going to experience their share of issues with the pace of the game. That transition becomes even more difficult when one considers that Ntilikina played in Europe, where the game is far less about the individual than it is in the Association.

While he may or may not become a Steve Nash level assist man, Ntilikina has at least displayed solid court vision and a high basketball IQ in 2017-18.

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More importantly: Frank Ntilikina displayed the poise, knowledge, and court vision required of the player who truly is the point guard of the future for the New York Knicks.