New York Knicks: Four players who need a strong finish

3. Frank Ntilikina

The controversial eighth overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft, Frank Ntilikina showed some progress this year. He demonstrated that he is capable of penetrating defenses, making open shots and creating for himself. However, there is still work for him to be a bare minimum solid role player on the Knicks, specifically at the offensive end.

Before the season went on hiatus, Ntilikina was shooting 39.3 percent from the field and 32.1 percent from 3-point range. Although Ntilikina was shooting better from three than in previous seasons, his overall efficiency lagged behind expectations.

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However, if the accepted rule is that free throw shooting is indicative of future shooting success, Ntilikina’s shot should continue to improve since his free-throw percentage is 86.4 percent.

Ntilikina also needs to work on his passive tendencies. There were moments throughout the season where he would not penetrate or quickly pass the ball to Julius Randle or Marcus Morris as soon as he passed halfcourt.

As a point guard, Ntilikina needs to take more control of the offense to show his leadership. Whether it’s directing traffic, initiating the offense, or controlling the tempo, Ntilikina will need to utilize these skills if he wants to be a viable option at point guard for the Knicks.