New York Knicks: Can Frank Ntilikina earn starting minutes next season?

New York Knicks, Frank Ntilikina
Jan 13, 2019; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Frank Ntilikina (11) at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Most fans have seemed to write off New York Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina before the beginning of the 2019-20 season. The reality is, he’s been a lackluster scorer since entering the league two years ago. Averaging just 5.9 points per game in two seasons has thrust him to the bottom of the pecking order. He will likely start behind Dennis Smith Jr. and Elfrid Payton this season as he claws for playing time.

While Ntilikina has failed to produce for the Knicks in the NBA, he has been in menace for the French national team this FIBA World Cup. He played a key role in derailing the USA basketball team and their 58-game win streak. He dominated against NBA quality players and showed that he can compete at a level high enough to succeed in the pros.

Frank is known for his defensive quality while his offensive production is reduced. However, against the USA basketball team, he looked even better than stars like Kemba Walker and Donovan Mitchell. The 21-year-old swung the momentum towards France in the fourth quarter, playing incredible defense and hitting a buzzer-beating dagger with two minutes and 15 seconds left to play.

The interesting thing about The Frenchman is that his stat line never jumps off the page. He recorded 11 points and five of nine shooting with one rebound and three assists. But he was +22 for the game, the second-best mark of any player on the floor.

His impressive performance begs the question:

Can Ntilikina earn playing time for the New York Knicks during the regular season?

Slated behind Smith Jr. and Payton, it will be difficult for him to crack the roster and play serviceable minutes. Despite that reality, he is still an outstanding defender and can be used in that facet.

If he can continue to hound opposing guards and shoot and even average level from the field, he could be a valuable asset for the Knicks in today’s NBA. Acting as a glorified utility player and situational point guard, Frank can be an integral part of the team, but he must play with confidence and understand his strengths and weaknesses.