New York Knicks: How Can Frank Ntilikina Save Himself This Season?

Frank Ntilikina was Phil Jackson’s final stab to the stomach of the New York Knicks organization when he was selected eighth in the 2017 NBA draft over current Knicks point guard Dennis Smith Jr. Ntilikina immediately dealt with injury woes which made him unavailable for summer league during the 2017 offseason.

However, Ntilikina eventually cracked Jeff Hornacek’s rotation once he got healthy early that season as the backup point guard for Jarrett Jack. The former SIG Strasbourg guard quickly began showing his strengths on the defensive end and began winning the hearts of Knick fans who have a serious thirst for players with a defense-first mindset. Frank Ntilikina definitely proved he has that mindset of a defensive disruptor with a very high defensive IQ for a guard so early in his career.

The rare style which Frank Ntilikina possesses got Knick fans either very hot or very cold on the young 20-year-old prospect from France.

It’s very rare for a player to be drafted at the age of 19 and have exceptional basketball IQ on defense, yet offensively the first round lottery pick seemed raw and tentative. Could it be a lack of confidence on offense? Does Ntilikina need more reps on his jump-shot and finishing ability around the rim?

Absolutely, and working in the gym on his conditioning and craft is exactly how Frank Ntilikina can save himself this season. He also needs to become even more aggressive in terms of physicality on defense and fearless on offense. If he saves himself this season, he possibly can save his entire career, especially since the New York Knicks hold the 2020 option in their hands.

One trait about Ntilikina many around him mention is his work ethic and desire to learn the game of basketball. Some say Ntilikina is a student of the game. Ntilikina appreciates the play of Tony Allen by retweeting it late July.

Can Fizdale’s bring the dog out of Ntilikina in training camp? If Fizdale can’t, I think the new additions in Bobby Portis, Marcus Morris, Taj Gibson, Julius Randle, Elfrid Payton, and even RJ Barrett will light a fighting fire under Ntilikina.