NBA Mock Draft: Are Lonzo to LA and Jackson to Boston locks?
Pick No. 9: Frank Ntilikina
Frank Ntilikina is a ghost to most people that don’t follow international basketball. Since I’m not the most informed about his play, here is a tad bit of what NBADraft.net said about him:
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"Elite size for a point guard with very good athleticism and quickness … Impressive wingspan (close to 7 ft)… Very mature for his age with a good basketball IQ … He has a thin frame, but his body structure suggests that he can add weight and increase his muscle tone nicely … A true point guard with a “pass first” mentality … He can control the pace of the game nicely … Excellent passer with great court vision."
After reading that, it’s hard to see that he wouldn’t be a great fit with the Mavericks. Ntilikina could step in and start just like Mudiay did for the Nuggets a few years ago. Hopefully, unlike Mudiay, he can strengthen his inconsistent shot.
From what I’ve read and seen, Ntilikina seems like a great pick, but he will have to prove he belongs in the NBA just like all players must. Dallas, who bought out Deron Williams, will be looking for a guard, so seeing a highly skilled international player might be a good sign for them, especially with their past luck with international players.