New York Knicks: Five reasons to re-sign Isaiah Hicks
![LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 02: Isaiah Hicks #4 of the New York Knicks warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on March 2, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 02: Isaiah Hicks #4 of the New York Knicks warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on March 2, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/0d474c489b4933c30cd566f0acae89f71003caa01487db66f61e40c60d36bc18.jpg)
2. Offensive Upside
Isaiah Hicks is still searching for his identity of the offensive end of the floor. He’s a well-rounded contributor with a solid foundation, however, as well as a coachable player who’s willing and able to expand his game.
It may or may not lead to something of significance, but Hicks has the offensive versatility to help anchor an efficient second unit.
Hicks finished the 2017-18 G League season with averages of 15.6 points and 2.7 offensive rebounds per game. He averaged 12.0 points and 1.5 offensive boards per 36 minutes in the NBA, shooting 45.8 percent from the floor.
He converted 49.2 percent of his two-point field goals, which is a promising sign considering he was a first-year player who was attempting to find his niche.
Beyond the numbers, Hicks can play above the rim, work the pick and roll, and operate without the ball. He rebounds relatively well, has expanded his range to beyond the three-point line, and is a solid passer—see: 2.4 assists per 36 minutes.
Hicks is more of a moldable talent than a player who’s ready to contribute from day one, but that’s an opportunity head coach David Fizdale should relish.