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New York Knicks: Eight predictions for the 2018-19 season

By Rob Wolkenbrod

New York Knicks Frank Ntilikina Kristaps Porzingis Tim Hardaway Jr. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
New York Knicks Frank Ntilikina Kristaps Porzingis Tim Hardaway Jr. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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TARRYTOWN, NY – AUGUST 12: Kevin Knox #20 of the New York Knicks flexes during the 2018 NBA Rookie Shoot on August 12, 2018 at the Madison Square Garden Training Center in Tarrytown, New York. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Michelle Farsi/NBAE via Getty Images)
TARRYTOWN, NY – AUGUST 12: Kevin Knox #20 of the New York Knicks flexes during the 2018 NBA Rookie Shoot on August 12, 2018 at the Madison Square Garden Training Center in Tarrytown, New York. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Michelle Farsi/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Kevin Knox will make the NBA All-Rookie First Team

As a top 10 pick, and with a franchise like the New York Knicks, expectations will be high for Kevin Knox, who already put on a highlight reel performance at summer league. It earned him first team honors and only increased hopes of accomplishments in Year One.

On a team that won’t have its star for a while, and with questions throughout the roster, Knox has the chance to establish himself early and often in the offensive pecking order. The Knicks have capable scorers, but no one who will hold the rookie back.

If Knox assumes a main scoring role, look for it to propel him into the conversation for NBA Rookie of the Year. It’s plenty to expect, but if not that, a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team should be realistic.

Competition lies throughout the NBA, with Deandre Ayton, Trae Young, Luka Doncic, Collin Sexton and Wendell Carter as candidates to make the first team. Unexpected names may emerge, too, as roles develop and opportunities open.

However, with the space to produce consistent, quality results in New York—along with an increased focus on youth if the team falters by midseason—Knox can make noise and bring legitimate hope to the Big Apple’s basketball future.

It’s difficult to pinpoint the numbers Knox needs to make the first team, as it depends on how other rookies perform. He probably needs at least 10-15 points per game to join the conversation. From there, it’s about what else he brings to the Knicks.

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