The New York Knicks didn't attract any big names in free agency but they did capture a promising young talent in the draft in Kevin Knox.The 19-year-old excited Knicks fans with his performances in the Summer League and he's generated real hype in the Big Apple.With an impressive display of athleticism and big scoring numbers, Knox was one of the standout performers among his rookie class.
Star in the making
He was taken with the number nine pick and could turn out to be a star for the Knicks if he has similar success in the NBA.
The small forward has real confidence in his game and should see a significant amount of playing time next year.
With fans in New York desperate for another star, the youngster is having to deal with being recognised around the city.
But he insists the fame will not distract him from putting in the necessary work in the gym and staying focused.
“Yeah, it’s a lot,” he told Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic after making an appearance at the NBA Store.
“But I just want to make sure I keep staying in the gym, keep working hard. Summer League is just a little glimpse so I’m really looking forward to getting to the season.”
Knox was recently given some extra motivation for the season ahead as he took exception to his NBA 2K19 rating.
The Kentucky product has been given a rating of 74 on the popular video game and he vented his frustration via an Instagram.
"74 overall 2k rating!?!?!?! That's DISRESPECTFUL... All good tho that's just motivation," he posted.
Preparing for the grind
The young forward has been using most of the summer to get himself ready, both physically and mentally, for the grind of the 82-game season.
He revealed that he's been leaning on Knicks teammate and second-year guard Frank Ntilikina for advice.
“Frank’s a young guy, going into his second year,” Knox said. “So I kind of talk to him a lot about how to get around, coaching styles, stuff like that. It’s kinda who I lean on.”
Knox may be enjoying the bright lights of New York and getting the love from fans already but he has to get used to a different kind of treatment from his teammates.
Enes Kanter posted a hilarious video on Twitter of how he was already putting him through his rookie duties.
With Kristaps Porzingis set to miss the majority of the campaign with a torn ACL, the franchise will hope that Knox can be the man to step up and fill that void at Madison Square Garden.
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