New York Knicks: Evaluating the point guard rotation

Knicks point guard rotation: Frank Ntilikina

We could write one million articles about Frank Ntilikina and still have something to say, at least that’s what it has felt like since he was drafted 8th overall by Phil Jackson as a parting gift before he was fired.

Is Ntilikina a point guard? Is he better off the ball? Yes. And yes. That is what makes it both exciting and challenging in trying to find his perfect role on the Knicks.

On a more defined roster, it would be easy to slot Ntilikina into the open gap and let him flourish there. But on an open canvas, it has proven difficult for multiple coaching staffs to paint a picture that highlights his strengths in environments that aren’t always suitable for his game.

Frank is the opposite of Dennis Smith Jr: he doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be successful, he is almost never going to blow up a scoresheet, and his ability to play defense is what separates him from similar players.

For all of the intangibles Ntilikina provides, shooting will still be the X-factor in deciding rotation minutes. The Knicks need all of the perimeter spacing they can get. The 22-year-old has shown promise from the corner-three area of the court, but he needs to show more.

Of the three players listed in this article, Ntilikina is the best candidate to find minutes elsewhere on the court. However, an opening is there for him at point guard.

As he enters the final season of his rookie scale contract, it is time for him to take control of his own destiny and force his way into the starting lineup. He should be able to beat out Payton and Smith Jr., but will he?