After the New York Knicks finally turned the page on the Carmelo Anthony saga for the last time in 2017, things seemed to be on a positive trend. That narrative died rather quickly with the lackluster performance of Joakim Noah, the season ending injury to Kristaps Porzingis, and the firing of head coach Jeff Hornacek.
Getting through the devastating season took every ounce of energy from the team, but greater things were on the horizon, and nobody knew it just yet. Fast forward to the 2018 NBA Draft – the Knicks selected star Kentucky forward Kevin Knox and big-man Mitchell Robinson.
Knox has done nothing but impress so far in the Summer League, and is expected to play a major role in the years ahead for a franchise that’s starving for a glimmer of hope.
What the No.1 attribute that Kevin Knox brings to the New York Knicks?
When speaking with the 6-foot-9 forward, you notice how humble and appreciate he is. His ability to shield the arrogance and ignorance of others is what will help him succeed in the NBA. Of course, it’s important to be confident, but for Knox, he knows that his skills are more important than his ego.
Former Knicks point guard Charlie Ward stated:
“That’s the kind of superstar you want — a guy who will go about his business, not going to be talking much, but learning the ropes on how to get better each day,†Ward said. “New York is a tough place to play, but you have to have thick skin. He’s willing to listen and be coached. His whole mentality and attitude is one that will help him become a superstar in the league at some point.â€
Being coachable is a factor that’s often overlooked in the drafting process, as pure skill can only go as far as the system behind it and willingness to adapt. Knox has everything you want in a young basketball player, and the fact that he’s just 18 years old should be a major confidence booster for every fan hoping he’s the real deal.