Los Angeles Lakers get high mark in complete 2017 NBA Draft first round grades

Very rarely do things go in favor for the New York Knicks. The NBA Draft Lottery didn’t go well as they lost a tiebreaking coin flip with the Minnesota Timberwolves, which started them in the seventh spot. They dropped a spot in the NBA Draft Lottery to the eighth spot. Luckily for the Knicks, the drop did not hurt them as they still landed their guy.

Throughout the draft process the Knicks were rumored to be interested in three players; Frank Ntilikina, Malik Monk, and Dennis Smith. All three were available when the Knicks went on the clock and they decided to go with the 6-feet-5 inch Frenchman.

Ntilikina is the prototypical, pass-first point guard. He is an excellent passer that likes to get his teammates involved. He is very quick with the ball in his hands and can change directions at the drop of a dime. He is playing in a high-level German league, showcasing the leadership qualities you want to see in a point guard.

Ntilikina has to work on his jump shot, but he has some range on his jumper already. He is said to be a good fit for the triangle offense, which Phil Jackson is stubbornly sticking to.

Ntilikina is a good player to pair with Kristaps Porzingis, who the Knicks dangled in trade offers but ultimately held onto. The Knicks have two potential building blocks and things are looking up for the first time in a long time in New York.