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New York Knicks: Ron Baker still searching for a consistent role

By Ed Easton Jr.

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 13: Ron Baker #31 of the New York Knicks reacts against the Washington Wizards in the second half during their game at Madison Square Garden on October 13, 2017 in New York City. User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 13: Ron Baker #31 of the New York Knicks reacts against the Washington Wizards in the second half during their game at Madison Square Garden on October 13, 2017 in New York City. User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Two months into the season, New York Knicks reserve guard Ron Baker is still without a consistent role or spot in the team’s rotation.

Last season, Ron Baker was a key contributor off the New York Knicks bench eventually taking over as the team’s starting point guard after Derrick Rose‘s injury. The undrafted guard out of Wichita State had officially earned a spot on the team after signing a guaranteed two-year contract.

Baker averaged 4.1 points and 2.2 assists per game last season in only 52 total games of action, but his effort couldn’t really be measured in typical stats. He has grown to be a fan favorite for his hard-nosed hustle plays and off the court popularity after releasing a children’s book last December. Baker was one of the few bright spots for a Knicks team plagued with poor play and numerous distractions off the court.

The good times have hit a roadblock with the additions of guards Ramon Sessions, Jarrett Jack and rookie Frank Ntilikina this offseason. The added depth at the point guard position created extra competition for playing time with Baker still having the advantage until injuries came into play. Baker severely sprained his ankle during voluntary workouts back in September, limiting his time on the court and eventually sending him to the inactive list.

Following recovery from the sprained ankle, Baker was sidelined again after falling victim to a pick during his G League assignment with the Westchester Knicks. The 24-year-old suffered a  sprained AC joint in his left shoulder, further delaying his progression and eventually breaking back into the rotation.

Baker vented his personal frustrations with the media last month but stayed optimistic that his chance would come as long as the team keeps playing well.

"“It’s been frustrating a little bit, but I’m humbled to be in the position I am in. What’s tough is not being able to contribute when you win. We’ve been very successful to this point. When you see your teammates having success, it makes you want to be a part of it. I am a part of it, but in a different way. You just wish you were on the court to be part of this, especially winning at home.”"

The problem facing Baker moving forward is finding a logical spot to fit in the team’s current mix of talent. He is a strong hustle player but compared to the other three point guards on the roster he is the least talented ball-handler. His decision-making is good but it’s not clearly above the level of the others on the depth chart, which remains his dilemma.

The idea of moving him to the shooting guard position especially while Tim Hardaway Jr. is unavailable due to injury, comes with another set of issues. Baker is not a feared scorer by any means but can play aggressive defense on opposing players at the position. His role could morph into a Thabo Sefolosha, defensive-oriented shooting guard spot that can see him garner more minutes late in close games.

Next: 2017-18 Week 8 NBA Power Rankings

Baker may not be in a good spot currently being labeled as active or inactive most of the season, but his head coach still has his back. It will take more time and as always, injuries to other guards could free up playing time for the Knicks’ resident author and fan favorite.

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