When the New York Knicks drafted Frank Ntilikina, they thought they gained an athletic point guard with impressive tangible traits.
The Frenchman has not lived up to the expectations set forth by the Knicks and their fans. It was expected that he would need time to develop, but after taking a major step back in his second year, the team looked to replace him at the point guard position with Dennis Smith Jr.
Smith Jr. is a more capable athlete and is more productive on the offensive side of the ball. His defense isn’t as good as Ntilikina‘s, but he holds more value in scoring production.
However, Ntilikina has managed to stay on the roster and will play a part in the 2019 regular season. This could be Frank’s final chance at retaining a spot on the active roster because if he cannot show the quality expected of him, he will be replaced.
The third-year player has found himself in bad situations in the past, missing games via coach’s decision.
The Knicks signing several veteran players only puts Frank at a disadvantage. He will have to fight for playing time.
He will earn his playing time through defensive prowess, which is Frank’s primary strength. He averages over one steal per game which is very valuable and will likely play in specific situations, primarily at the end of games when the Knicks are trying to lock down an opposing team on their final possession.
Ntilikina played a solid amount last season before second-round pick Mitchell Robinson emerged as the better defender and was able to supplement his absence on the floor. However, Elfrid Payton’s arrival makes Ntilikina expendable due to his defensive abilities.
If the third-year player does not improve his offense, it’s unlikely he earns any playing time and will likely be left behind. If he cannot produce more offensively, refining his defense could keep him minimally relevant for the season ahead.