2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 26: The Timberwolves’ young core improves
By Chris Stone
Frank Ntilikina
PG, Strasbourg
Draft status: In, but undecided
For the Sacramento Kings, the 2017 NBA Draft represents a massive opportunity to rebuild a roster that is searching for an identity after the front office shipped Demarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans at the trade deadline. With two picks likely to fall in the top 10, there is plenty of opportunity to add pieces that could ultimately help shape whatever that identity may be. Strasbourg’s Frank Ntilikina would give the Kings a potential point guard of the future to help lead the team during its rebuild.
At 6-foot-5, Ntilikina fits the mold of larger point guards that are taking over the modern NBA, but he still needs to add strength to his frame. That should come, though, as he’s still just 18-years old and one of the youngest prospects in the class. Ntilikina has shown his point guard skills in youth international competitions where his ability to run pick-and-roll has been impressive. He has also developed a more consistent 3-point playing off the ball this season that should help round out his offensive game.
Defensively, there is a lot to like about the French prospect. He’s got a long wingspan, quick hands and should be relatively switchable given his size.