Thunderous Intentions
Fansided

2017 NBA Draft- Annual Editor’s Mock Draft

By Tamberlyn Richardson

Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) passes UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the second half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. UCLA won 107-66. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) passes UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the second half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. UCLA won 107-66. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Frank Ntilikina
Jun 23, 2016; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks before the start of the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /

27. . Point Guard. International. Frank Ntilikina. 8. player

Team Needs:

A new Director of Basketball Operations – no seriously. If Jackson insists on pushing the ‘triangle’ down the Mecca’s throat the team will prioritize adding players with playmaking abilities, high basketball I.Q and bigs with a varied skill set.  The most glaring holes were on defense (26th rank) and energy evidenced by the squad getting to the charity stripe the third-fewest times in the league.

Free Agents:

  • Ron Baker – RFA
  • Justin Holiday – UFA
  • Derrick Rose – UFA
  • Sasha Vujacic – UFA

Roster Gaps:

With the uncertainty of Derrick Rose’s future, a point guard is a logical choice. But the 24th ranked perimeter scoring team may also be tempted to take a big with a versatile skill set that includes strong passing skills and range.

Frank Ntilikina:

As for Frank Ntilikina in TI’s draft prospect preview  his skills were highlighted as:

"Ntilikina’s fluid style, long steps and ability to surprise defenders kept drawing me back to an Antetokounmpo comparison. With his height and lateral quickness Ntilikina has the ability to guard 3 positions with his wing span often leading to steals and blocks.  The combination of his fluid style and the poise in which he plays makes him seem like he’s playing the game at a different speed than everyone else around him. In less than a year he improved his 3-point efficiency from 26.8 percent to 46 percent. If that’s any indication of his ability to grow and improve specific areas – watch out. Furthermore, once he improves his ball handling and first step he’ll be able to add to his offense versatility."

Overview:

While Knicks fans are contemplating the Zen Master’s sanity, those of us old enough to be familiar with his antics know there is likely an ulterior method to his madness. Phil Jackson isn’t trading away the unicorn any more than he would have allowed M.J.or Kobe Bryant to be shipped out. What is clear is he’ll be seeking a triangle capable student.

Given Rose’s reluctance to utilize Porzingis it stands to reason a capable, intelligent, fluid point guard will get the nod. That said, let’s be clear the issues in the Mecca aren’t vanishing. Joakim Noah’s startling regression and albatross salary aren’t leaving town. Nor is the publicity war between Carmelo Anthony and Jackson headed to Greta Garbo territory anytime soon.

Suffice to say, until the drama on the court surpasses the drama off it, Knicks fans will get more action buying dailies.

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