New York Knicks: Best candidates for 2018-19 NBA awards

TARRYTOWN, NY - AUGUST 12: Kevin Knox #20 of the New York Knicks poses for a portrait during the 2018 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on August 12, 2018 at the Madison Square Garden Training Facility in Tarrytown, 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Most Improved Player: Frank Ntilikina

The Knicks have a number of players that could have landed in this spot. As mentioned earlier, there are a number of players looking to get their careers on track with New York in 2018-19. The player that the Knicks are hoping takes the biggest step forward this season is Frank Ntilikina.

Ntilikina was the No. 8 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. The French product had a rough go at it as a rookie. His offensive skills, especially point guard-specific traits, are not where the Knicks hoped they would be. He ended up playing more shooting guard, and that could be his position going forward.

During Summer League play, albeit in a small sample size, Ntilikina looked more decisive with the ball in his hands. He was more confident as a playmaker, showing off a post-up game and distributing well.

If his offensive game takes some strides, people will pay attention because Ntilikina is already an excellent defender. While Ntilikina doesn’t have eye-popping stats, his metrics were very good as a rookie defensively.

With another year to get stronger, his defense should be even better. What the Knicks are hoping is that another year will improve his offensive game overall.

Ntilikina’s versatility defensive is great to have, but he would be much more useful if he can improve his point guard play as well. Improving in that area would also get more attention on him for the award voters as well.

New York has never had a player win the Most Improved Player Award.

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