2017 NBA Mock Draft: Fultz to Celtics, Ball to Lakers after lottery
By Chris Stone
Frank Ntilikina
PG, Strasbourg
The New York Knicks at least seem committed to maintaining some of the principles of the triangle offense as they go forward, so finding a point guard who plays more like a combo guard could be a nice fit in the Big Apple. Strasbourg’s Frank Ntilikina tows the line in a way that could be helpful for Phil Jackson’s vision. The 6-foot-5 prospect spent much of his time playing point guard for his youth international team, but he might lack the explosiveness at this stage to play the position full time in the NBA. At Strasbourg, he’s largely played off the ball this season, improving significantly as a shooter. That combination of skills could fit well in what New York is attempting to do.
The other attractive thing about Ntilikina as a prospect is his potential defensive versatility. While he needs to put on some strength, his 6-foot-10 wingspan gives him upside on that end. Ntilikina is one of the youngest players in the draft, so he should mature physically and as he does, he’ll improve on that end.
Ntilikina doesn’t have the same profile as the college prospects in this class, but his upside on both ends of the floor should be an attractive combination for the Knicks’ fan base.