We are in the midst of a cold winter and the New York Knicks are rapidly approaching the NBA trade deadline. During this stretch, many Knick fans are worried about Kevin Knox‘s lack of playing time and basketball struggles. Some fans believe Knox should get minutes and learn on the fly, while others feel Knox must earn minutes while beating out the competition. With the trade deadline approaching and the unpredictable Knicks exploring trade options, some feel the 20-year-old’s future as a Knick is uncertain.
Some individuals within the Knick organization rave about Kevin Knox’s work ethic. According to a few sources, Kevin Knox is always in the gym putting up extra jumpers and working on other aspects of his game both offensively and defensively when nobody is looking. As a player who’s scouting report described him as a low motor talent during his draft class, being in the gym consistently may ease the concerns about his motor from tough skeptics for the time being. Throw in the fact that Kevin Knox is still a 20-year-old who hasn’t even grown into his body yet makes one gain patience during Kevin Knox’s growing pains in the NBA. There are even arguments defending Knox based on the type of team the Knicks are personnel-wise. The team is currently rebuilding its roster and there’s a good mix of young players and veterans. Chemistry building and a coaching change all affect young players in their own light and Kevin Knox isn’t excluded.
There’s also a possibility that Bobby Portis gets traded. Multiple teams are interested in the Knicks floor stretching big man off the bench according to sources. This would open up more playing time for Kevin Knox.
From earlier: Kevin Knox isn’t worried about his minutes: “The people in my circle always tell me to stay locked in. Don't get too down. They know I've got a lot of work to do. I know myself that I've got a lot to do.” Notes on that, Bobby Portis and Julius Randle here: https://t.co/PEaM0lz7pE
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) January 7, 2020
According to Ian Begley, a long-time basketball trainer who happens to also be a long-time Knick fan by the name of Mark Edwards believes Kevin Knox has All-Star potential.
"Most days, the day before the game, Kevin (Knox) will put up 500-700 jumpers and work on his handle, work on a bunch of finishes. He's constantly working.
The guys you have to worry about are the guys who are not putting in the extra work." — NBA Trainer Mark Edwards https://t.co/1PxrzdeOlq— Knicks.City? (@knickcity) January 7, 2020
Overall, Knick fans should not worry about Kevin Knox as a basketball player. Patience is key and based on the 20-year-old’s work ethic, a possible late bloomer situation is not out of the question. Some players take longer than others to find their footing in the league and everybody has different circumstances. Are the Knicks willing to wait for Knox to fully develop? Stay tuned!