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.
1. Boston Celtics - MARKELLE FULTZ, WASHINGTON
2. Los Angeles Lakers - LONZO BALL, UCLA
3. Philadelphia 76ers - JOSH JACKSON, KANSAS
4. Phoenix Suns - JONATHAN ISAAC, FLORIDA STATE
5. Sacramento Kings - DE’AARON FOX, KENTUCKY
6. Orlando Magic - JAYSON TATUM, DUKE
7. Minnesota Timberwolves - MALIK MONK, KENTUCKY
8. New York Knicks - FRANK NTILIKINA, FRANCE
9. Dallas Mavericks -
10. Sacramento Kings -
11. Charlotte Hornets -
12. Detroit Pistons -
13. Denver Nuggets -
14. Miami Heat -
15. Portland Trail Blazers -
16. Chicago Bulls -
17. Milwaukee Bucks -
18. Indiana Pacers -
19. Atlanta Hawks -
20. Portland Trail Blazers -
21. Oklahoma City Thunder -
22. Brooklyn Nets -
23. Toronto Raptors -
24. Utah Jazz -
25. Orlando Magic -
26. Portland Trail Blazers -
27. Brooklyn Nets -
28. Los Angeles Lakers -
29. San Antonio Spurs -
30. Utah Jazz -