New York Knicks’ Kevin Knox may have improved his defense shortly before the season suspension, but the forward isn’t flourishing like his some of his fellow 2018 lottery picks.
According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, an NBA source cited that David Fizdale and his interim replacement Mike Miller felt that Knox was too “soft.” True enough, Miller was reportedly told to still win games — and he hadn’t played the 6-foot-7 forward all too much.
The former ninth overall pick saw some minutes reduction from 28.8 to 17.9 per game. Since then, his numbers have been in a steep decline. A sophomore campaign filled with expectations has so far been a display of offensive fragility. The short 2019-20 saw him average a disappointing 6.4 points on 35.9 percent accuracy. Even when small forward starter Marcus Morris left, Knox stayed on the bench.
His recently improved defense has somewhat satisfied coaches. However, fellow 2018 picks have relatively been more productive on both ends of the court. One NBA college scout noted that Knox wasn’t creative enough on offense, especially compared to fellow Kentucky alum Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The former 11th pick has been thriving in Oklahoma City alongside Chris Paul, putting up 19.3 points while sitting on a West playoff spot.
It is important to note, however, that Knox is still 20 years old and has plenty of room to develop. The Knicks organization is certainly taking into account the young forward’s admirable work ethic and slowly improving defense. With the season suspended indefinitely, Knox merely has to keep the momentum once games resume.
Follow Us
Subscribe