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New York Knicks: Five realistic goals for Frank Ntilikina in 2018-19

By Rob Wolkenbrod

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 10: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks calls out the play in the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden on January 10, 2018 in New York City.The Chicago Bulls defeated the New York Knicks 122-119 in double overtime. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 10: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks calls out the play in the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden on January 10, 2018 in New York City.The Chicago Bulls defeated the New York Knicks 122-119 in double overtime. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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SAN ANTONIO, TX – DECEMBER 28: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs handles the ball against Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks on December 28, 2017 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photos by Mark Sobhani/NBAE via Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX – DECEMBER 28: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs handles the ball against Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks on December 28, 2017 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photos by Mark Sobhani/NBAE via Getty Images) /

1. Make the All-NBA Defensive Second Team

The San Antonio Spurs watched Dejounte Murray rise from G-league bound rookie in 2016-17 to a defensive force with the main squad in 2017-18. His presence on the boards and the perimeter earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, an incredible feat for a 21 year old who played in just over 20 minutes per game.

In 2018-19, could Frank Ntilikina become the next Murray?

Ntilikina already possesses defensive prowess, with the ability to overwhelm guards and maintain position with forwards. It can even improve with the noted growth and on-court experience, after playing as a 19 year old.

The stats might not show it, but if Ntilikina crosses 1-1.5 steals per game, boosts the rebound average and plays more than 20 minutes per game, look for him to join the mix for the NBA All-Defensive Second Team.

With all the talent the NBA has at guard, breaking through won’t be easy. It would not take a great season, but a stellar 82-game run towards this accolade.

Next. 25 greatest players in franchise history. dark

If Ntilikina does this, it puts a bow on a sophomore season that gives New York Knicks fans hope for the future, as a piece to impact playoff-contending teams in the next decade.

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