The New York Knicks have a new offseason storyline in the form of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
While the Team USA roster does not include any Knicks’ players (despite Julius Randle deserving a spot over at least two competitors), New York is well represented on the world stage.
A total of three Knicks’ stars have agreed to suit up for their respective international squads this offseason. Here are the players who will play bonus basketball during the NBA break and a goal for each to strive for.
New York Knicks Guard Frank Ntilikina: France
Frank Ntilikina’s French team has one of the strongest rosters in the field.
The 2017 lottery pick is joined by several NBA talents including perennial Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert, veteran wings Nicolas Batum and Evan Fournier, and slasher Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot.
Few teams in the Olympics can match France’s star power. Add Ntilikina to the mix, and the team can boast an entire starting unit of solid NBA stars.
One thing to strive for: Finding his rhythm
Ntilikina seems to be entering a season that will define his NBA career.
The combo guard was once selected with the 8th overall pick due to his length and defensive upside. However, he has failed to develop any aspect of his game.
Even more damning is the fact that the 22-year-old posted career lows across the board in his 33 appearances in 2020-2021.
Perhaps a chance to play with new players, coaches, and atmospheres will help Ntilikina reset himself and recapture his former potential.
Knicks fans can only hope.