On Saturday night, third-year point guard Frank Ntilikina got his first start of the season for the New York Knicks. While the Knicks still ended up losing out to a very determined Boston Celtics side, 104-102, Ntilikina was pretty impressive manning the starting point guard spot on the evening.
In 38 minutes of action, Ntilikina finished with 10 points (on 4-of-9 shooting), two 3-pointers, three rebounds, two assists, three steals, and a block. While these are not exactly eye-popping numbers, it is clear that the 21-year-old has what it takes to serve as the team's primary playmaker moving forward.
Elfrid Payton, who is currently out with a hamstring issue, was New York's starting point guard prior to his injury. In four games played, the 25-year-old averaged 8.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.5 steals, while also knocking down 1.3 3-pointers per ballgame. Payton looked pretty good, and it is unfortunate that he had to go down with a knock. Hamstring issues can get tricky, so at this point, it is unclear when Payton will be able to return to action for the Knicks.
Towards the second half of last season, New York started Dennis Smith Jr. at the one spot, but the former ninth overall pick has had a atrocious start to the new season. He too is away with the team as he deals with a loss on his family, so much like Payton, Smith's timetable currently remains uncertain.
With the issues going on in New York's backcourt, Ntilikina appears to have the starting spot to himself for the time being. While this was something brought about by circumstance, it is clear that the 6-foot-4 guard is very much willing to prove his worth for the team. Consider this as an extended trial period for Ntilikina — something that he will definitely look to take advantage of.
For his part, Knicks head coach David Fizdale seems to be quite impressed by Ntilikina's play, with the veteran shot-caller sending praises towards the Belgian's direction. Coach Fizdale also stated that he “absolutely plans” to start Ntilikina on Sunday against the Sacramento Kings, so it is clear that the young guard has his coach's full confidence at the moment.
Last season, in his second year with the Knicks, Ntilikina averaged 5.7 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 0.7 steals, while also connecting on 0.8 3-pointers per ballgame in just 21.0 minutes played. He is currently looking at a significant increase in playing time over the next few games or so, and he should be able to put up better numbers moving forward.
It is also worth noting that Ntilikina has two more years remaining in his rookie scale deal, and he is currently in line to be a free agent by the end of the 2020-21 season. While this campaign may not be a contract year for the former eighth overall pick, there is no doubt that this will be a very important season in his career, as Ntilikina hopes to establish himself as a member of New York's young core. He certainly has the opportunity right now, so it will be up to him if he is able to grab the chance.
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