New York Knicks: How Kevin Knox can take a step up this season
By Alan Mena
The New York Knicks have had an underrated off-season. Kevin Knox, who is entering his sophomore season, can take a step up in 2019-20.
As the 2019-20 NBA season approaches, the New York Knicks need one particular player to step up; Kevin Knox. Last season, Knox started in 57 out of his 75 total appearances, where he averaged 12.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.1 assists, on 37.7 field goal percentage (FG%), 34.3 three-point percentage (3P%), 71.7 free throw percentage (FT%), in 28.8 minutes per game.
After another impressive summer league showing, Knox must continue to prove that he is capable of becoming the Knicks full-time starting small forward next season. With the addition of several veteran free agents, last year’s first-round pick must earn his starting spot by showcasing his impact on both ends of the floor.
Maybe the most encouraging single play from the Knicks five summer league games...
— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) July 14, 2019
Knox show good vision and unselfishness, kicking it out to Barrett.
And then Barrett knocks down the contested 3-pointer pic.twitter.com/wv7d5o8JRs
Most rookies have issues playing an steady game night after night. It’s a much longer season than they are used to. In his rocky debut season, Knox’s strengths and weaknesses were evident.
Knox’ Pros: smooth jump shot, ability to score in transition, effective off-the-ball mobility, can produce in isolation, explosive drive to the rim, and good timing in the passing lanes.
Knox’ Cons: defense, consistency from the field, and playmaking ability.
Despite Knox’s vulnerabilities on the floor, he has a great opportunity to take a step forward in his second season. He’s only 22-years-old, there is no reason to doubt that 2018’s ninth overall draft pick can’t improve upon his rookie year performance.