WATCH: Knicks’ Immanuel Quickley shows off handles in workout video

The New York Knicks are expecting big things from second-year guard Immanuel Quickley after a successful rookie campaign. After being selected 25th overall in the first round last year, Quickley established himself as a primary offensive threat.

Thanks to mentorship from veteran point guard Derrick Rose, Quickley saw his floater game improve dramatically as the season progressed. During Summer League play, he showcased it as one of his strengths, going on to average 20.2 points over 33.5 minutes.

It is clear that the 22-year-old player has lofty expectations for himself moving forward, working diligently this off-season to improve portions of his game that were considered weaknesses in his first season as an NBA talent. However, he started off extremely well as a rookie, averaging 11.4 points, 2.0 assists, and shooting 39.5% from the field. He connected on 39% of his shots from three-point range, averaging 4.7 attempts per game. He was also an 89% free-throw shooter, showing his efficiency in multiple scoring categories.

One of his primary tasks this off-season was to work on his ability to drive to the rim and convert layups. Only 23.8% of his points came in the paint last year, a number he will be looking to increase with added versatility driving to the rim.

Another category he’ll be looking to improve in is percentage of points from mid-range shooting. Only 6.6% of his overall point production was from the mid-range, a category that showcases solid interior shooting. Take a look at the clip below, as Quickley is clearly working on maneuvering in the paint to avoid defenders and get to the rim seamlessly.

Adding stutter-steps to his repertoire and hesitation moves should help him drive to the rim more efficiently. It seems that Quickley hasn’t given up on the idea of playing point guard, which will require him to expand his vision on the floor. The Knicks signed Kemba Walker to a two-year deal and Derrick Rose to an extension, but Quickley spent the majority of his offseason working at PG during Summer League play.

It is entirely possible that when Kemba and Rose’s contracts expire in two years, the Knicks could look to Quickley as a long-term solution at point guard. He has the tangible traits to be a fantastic player in that regard, but just needs more refinement and experience at the position before he can be trusted with the job.

Do you think that Quickley could be the starting PG for the future? Comment below!

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