New York Knicks: Best candidates for 2018-19 NBA awards
Rookie of the Year: Kevin Knox
With the No. 9 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, the New York Knicks selected Kevin Knox out of Kentucky. Of all of the awards on this list, this one has the best chance of coming to fruition.
Knox made a strong first impression in the orange and blue. He was a standout during NBA Summer League play, averaging 21.3 points per game. Knox also added 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.0 steals per game. While his efficiency wasn’t great, he showcased excellent athleticism and finishing ability in both the open court and half court.
Rookie of the Year is the one award that seems to be least dependent on team success. New York is expected to struggle during the 2018-19 season, and that should provide Knox will plenty of opportunities in his first season in the NBA.
A starting spot and big minutes right off the bat are a good start for any player that wants to be in the ROY running. There is a chance that Knox could be the team’s leading scorer this upcoming season. If that happens, he will receive plenty of consideration for the Rookie of the Year award.
Averages of about 15 points, five rebounds and 1-2 assists per game are not out of the question for Knox. If he adds one steal per game as he did in Summer League, he will draw attention.
Three Knicks have won the Rookie of the Year award in franchise history. Willis Reed was the first in 1964-65, followed by Patrick Ewing in 1985-86 and Mark Jackson in 1987-88.