New York Knicks: Five reasons to love Frank Ntilikina in the starting lineup

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NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 09: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks in action against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden on April 9, 2018 in New York City. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 123-109. 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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

3. Versatility

Point guard was seen as Frank Ntilikina’s position upon arrival to the New York Knicks in 2017, but since David Fizdale took over, that has not been the case.

The preseason saw the Ixelles, Belgium native begin as a point guard, and that might be where he eventually settles in primarily. However, when not on the ball, his size, athleticism and defensive ability provides the versatility to make interesting lineup combinations.

For now, it starts with Ntilikina as the small forward, but he can shift to shooting guard when Tim Hardaway Jr. goes to the bench. That may not happen frequently until he provides a higher three-point percentage, but in situational defenses, it works.

Opportunities will arise for Ntilikina to defend power forwards in smaller lineups. At 6-foot-6, he can potentially line up against Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors or Marcus Morris of the Boston Celtics.

The underlying versatile value comes through in Fizdale’s desire for positionless basketball. Ntilikina will shift through lineup variations, sans a designated position, and fit in wherever he’s needed, whether it’s on the ball, next to the point guard or on the wing.

Ntilikina’s role may shift start to start, and it’s intriguing potential for where he can go in Year Two.

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