Grading every New York Knicks first-round draft pick since 2013

2017 NBA Draft: PG Frank Ntilikina, F

Somehow, in an absurdly talented draft class, the Knicks managed to make one of the worst selections in the first round. Not only was Frank Ntilikina not the right pick at the time, but even the franchise didn’t believe in him. In four seasons with the Knicks, Ntilikina started just 55 games. While he likely never would’ve been a star, he was never given the chance to prove he could be one.

In four seasons with the Knicks, Ntilikina averaged 5.5 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while shooting 36.6% from the field and 32.8% from three on 2.2 attempts. Ntilikina was a great defensive player in New York, but the fact that he was a complete liability on offense hurt his chances of ever having a legit role.

Since leaving the Knicks, Ntilikina has spent two uneventful seasons with the Mavericks and is now a free agent. It will be interesting to see if he stays in the NBA next season, or returns overseas.

Unfortunately, Ntilikina was never given a fair chance. However, the Knicks could have picked almost anyone who was picked after him and it would’ve been a better selection. Dennis Smith Jr., Zach Collins, Malik Monk, Luke Kennard, and Donovan Mitchell were all taken five picks after Ntilikina and have been better players.