New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina has resurfaced — now what?

Frank Ntilikina re-entered the rotation for the New York Knicks against the Brooklyn Nets. Where does the sophomore pro go from here?

No discussion around the New York Knicks for the past week discluded Frank Ntilikina‘s status. His poor play led to multiple rumors of teams showing trade interest, and head coach David Fizdale removed the sophomore from the rotation.

The stint lasted three games, until Fizdale brought Ntilikina back with minutes left in the third quarter in Saturday’s loss to the Brooklyn Nets. But, for what felt like an extended period, the Frenchman’s future and a present-day role in the rotation were debated.

Like Damyean Dotson and Trey Burke, once Ntilikina hit the floor, it was clear, Fizdale would have another difficult decision to make.

The 20-year-old did not have the star-shining 20-point game, but played aggressively as the point guard, which Fizdale kept him away from after moving to a reserve role. That included a left-handed scoop and a made three-pointer, undoubtedly a confidence-booster following a 3-for-20 stretch from behind the arc.

Ntilikina finished with seven points and three assists on 3-for-6 shooting. It’s a start, and in 15 minutes, 12 of which came in a full fourth-quarter run, there’s no reason to think he finds another long-term stretch on the bench anytime soon.

Will it produce a starting role? As of now, probably not. Emmanuel Mudiay, while providing inconsistent performances, has still played at his best since entering the NBA, including 14.7 points and 3.3 assists on 46 percent shooting since taking over at point guard.

There’s Trey Burke to battle, as well, once he returns from injury. Though Ntlikina has the chance to take the Michigan product’s playing time now.

The difference between pre-benching and post-benching may be playing on the ball. As noted, he did against the Nets. No Burke helps this, but if Ntilikina continues to push the ball to the hoop, rather than playing conservatively from 10-to-16 feet out, he should earn more opportunities.

Of course, the 20-year-old’s playing time also correlates with his jumpshot. Four of his six shots came from behind the arc, missing three of them, but the easier baskets that come around the paint were also on display. If he can find more of them, the high percentage shots, it can make him a more efficient player.

If Ntilikina successfully works through this comeback, maybe he finds a starting spot later in the season, when Fizdale gives the first and second-year players most of the playing time. For now, it’s baby steps and, potentially, the long-awaited development of this former lottery pick.