Daily Knicks
Fansided

NY Knicks: 3 players Frank Ntilikina should mold his game after

By Brad Wier

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 12: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks directs his teammates in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2020 in New York City.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 Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 12: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks directs his teammates in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2020 in New York City.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 Elsa/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
Knicks
MEMPHIS, TN – JANUARY 10: Tony Allen #9 of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrates during a game against the Boston Celtics at the FedExForum (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Frank Ntilikina can learn from Tony Allen

Tony Allen is a retired 14-year NBA veteran who was selected to six NBA All-Defensive teams and was an NBA champion on the Boston Celtics in 2007-2008. For anyone under the age of 16, you might of only heard of this legendary player but never got to see him in action. In his prime, he was the best perimeter defender in the NBA. That’s not a hyperbole either, just ask Kobe.

Tony Allen is 100% who Ntilikina should strive to be. A player being able to slow down/stop the other team’s best scorer is an invaluable asset for any team. Only a career 8.1 ppg player, a box score looking casual fan would be shocked to learn he was able to stick around for as long as he did. The truth is he was one of the most feared players in the NBA on the defensive side of the ball. Any star player knowing he has to go against one of the toughest defenders in the league certainly wouldn’t be looking forward to that matchup.

Frank can watch tape of Allen and realize the footwork and physical strength needed to become an elite defender. I personally think Tony Allen is the best case comparable for a player like Frank, and if he became even 80% defender Allen was, then he would be heralded by fans for what he brings to the team. Allen is one of those players that doesn’t show up on the box score, but when you watch in person, undeniably brings a winning impact on the court and was a fan favorite on every team he was on.

Home/Knicks News