With the 2017 NBA Draft fast approaching, we are getting a few more indications as to how the class will shape up.
One player whose destination is becoming more clear is Frank Ntilikina. The French guard is being shown significant interest from two mid-lottery teams, according to two separate reports.
First, the Dallas Mavericks, who may be wooing the guard before they can even draft him, according to ESPN’s Chad Ford:
Frank Ntilikina's coach at Strasbourg, Vincent Collet, will coach with the Mavs Orlando Summer League team – Dallas all in on Ntilikina
— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 19, 2017
However, in order for the Mavs to draft the Frenchman, they may need to move up in the draft because according to Ian Begley of the New York Daily News, the New York Knicks (who pick one spot ahead of Dallas), are also significantly interested in drafting him.
Despite the report, a source reiterated to the Daily News that the Knicks have shown the most interest in the French point guard, having sent scout Makhtar Ndiaye to watch him extensively overseas.
New York’s interest in Ntilikina does not necessarily mean they will pick him but he is seemingly a very suitable fit in Phil Jackson’s Triangle offense. If Mark Cuban and the Mavs are set on Ntilikina (and they seem to be, as the Mavs’ owner flew to Europe to meet him), then they may need to make a move.
