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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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New York Knicks
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images /

1. Kevin Knox

Many fans that tune into the Summer League want to see the high draft picks taking the court for the first time. For the Knicks fans, that player is Kevin Knox. The Knicks used the ninth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft on Knox and this is the first time they’ve gotten to see him in action.

Like many of the recent Knicks draft picks, Knox was booed on draft night. That has just provided Knox will more motivation as he looks to make his mark with New York. Knox has the kind of skill set that thrives in the Summer League atmosphere.

So far he’s been very impressive, averaging 20.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game over his first two appearances, though he’s only shot 13-of-37 from the floor.

Knox has the tools to become a multi-dimensional defender as well. Once he gets stronger he should be able to handle power forward on a more regular basis. That kind of versatility is a big reason he was selected, as he fits alongside Porzingis well.

Knox is a very gifted scorer. He scores from multiple spots on the court with range out to the 3-point range. Standing 6’9”, Knox can take smaller players into the post, or use his athleticism on the perimeter against bigger players.

Next: 2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

Fans like to see counting stats, and Knox should continue to provide some.

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