NBA Mock Draft: New York Knicks Select Frank Ntilikina

SB Nation's NBA Network conducted a mock draft with bloggers from each team site making their team’s pick. To continue the 2017 NBA Mock Draft, Posting and Toasting takes Frank Ntilikina from France

By Dakota Schmidt@Dakota_Schmidt Jun 15, 2017, 3:30pm EDT

NBA Mock Draft Pick #8 — Frank Ntilikina, Point Guard, France

SBNation’s New York Knicks’ blog Posting and Toasting explains their pick:

Yes, the much-debated triangle offense factors into this decision, but not in the way you might think. The Knicks' braintrust has grown so obsessed with Phil Jackson's favorite triple-post attack that any improvement in the long-neglected defense will have to come via the acquisition of a handful of defensive-minded players. The lanky Frenchman, with his 7-foot wingspan and already impressive intensity might be just what the roster needs to jump-start a defensive Renaissance in New York.

Ridiculous Upside Analysis

As much as Knicks fans may groan at the idea of using a lottery pick on an international prospect, Frank Ntilikina would be a great fit for the Knicks. Despite being an 18-year-old rookie, Ntilikina already has the grasp of a pick-and-roll that usually see from an NBA veteran. That pick-and-roll prowess should allow him to immediately be a good partner with Kristaps Porzingis. On the other end of the court, the 6’5 guard has great defensive potential due to his long 7-foot wingspan.