Although the New York Knicks didn’t own a first-round pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, they had plenty of selections come the second round and seemingly cleaned house.
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Phil Jackson and the rest of the New York Knicks front office nabbed a handful of talented players, including Louis Labeyrie with the 57th overall pick. It wasn’t expected that Louis Labeyrie would join the New York Knicks this season however and that has proven to be the case as the young forward will remain abroad and continue his playing career in France.
"Louis Labeyrie, the Knicks’ No. 57 pick in the draft, will continue to develop with his French team in Paris and could start discussions on an NBA contract next summer, a source told RealGM."
While there are some Knicks fans who will likely be a bit disappointed in the news (you always want to see your draft picks), the decision to allow Louis Labeyrie to remain in France is likely both best for him and the New York Knicks in the long run.
Assuming he would have joined the Knicks, Labeyrie wouldn’t have seen much (if any) floor time, which would obviously stunted his growth. Yes, he could have benefited from NBA coaching but he can come over during the offseason and work with the Knicks staff and learn plenty.
You aren’t going to grow as a player sitting on the bench so it’s the right decision for all involved.
This is likely to be his final season in France as he’ll come over next year and either join the Knicks or play for their Westchester D-League affiliate.