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New York Knicks: 5 players to watch in 2018 NBA Summer League

By Kenneth Teape

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 6: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks high-fives Luke Kornet #2 of the New York Knicks during the game against the Miami Heat on April 6, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 6: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks high-fives Luke Kornet #2 of the New York Knicks during the game against the Miami Heat on April 6, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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3. Mitchell Robinson

New York has its starting center locked in with Enes Kanter. Joakim Noah is also still on the roster, but his current status in terms of his spot in the rotation is unclear. However, the one center people will get excited about is Mitchell Robinson.

Robinson was selected with the 36th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. It was a little bit surprising to see Robinson slip into the second round, but the Knicks were more than happy to end his slide there.

Robinson slipped in part because he didn’t play basketball this past season. He was expected to play at Western Kentucky but decided to withdraw and focus on his professional career. That was a red flag for some teams, but the immense potential was on display throughout his workouts.

Robinson is a tall, long athletic player that already projects as a good rim protector in the NBA. He has showcased freakish athleticism and length.

Needing only one dribble, even in a workout, to get to the rim from half court is insane. In addition to that, Mitchell has showcased a good shooting touch. Given his athleticism, he should be a good pairing for Kristaps Porzingis once he is healthy enough to return to the court.

The Las Vegas Summer League is the first time Robinson has participated in a game in over a year. Rust was expected to be present, but the potential he possesses is sky high. In two games, he’s averaged 10.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game on 10-of-16 shooting overall.

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