Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

New York Knicks head coach David Fizdale wants LeBron James to talk with Kevin Knox, even if he won’t play against him on Friday.

New York Knicks head coach David Fizdale wants Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James to speak to rookie Kevin Knox, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News.

The Knicks play the Lakers at the Staples Center Friday night, but James will be on the bench recovering from a strained groin. Just the same, he’ll be in the building along with Knox and, if he feels so inclined, be able to give the rookie some pointers.

Knox, 19, was drafted ninth overall by the Knicks in last summer’s NBA Draft. He is averaging 12.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, but shooting just 37.7 percent from the field. However, Knox had a strong December and averaged 17.1 points per game and shot 40.3 percent from the field last month. He has also scored in double figures in 11 consecutive games. The rookie was rewarded for his strong December and he was named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month.

The former University of Kentucky Wildcat has also shot 35.9 percent from three-point land and has a high athletic ceiling. He’s still young and has a lot to learn, namely when and when not to attempt a three-pointer. In good time, he can be a strong wing on both ends of the court.

Thus, for Fizdale to want James to give Knox some pointers is an excellent idea. James, on top of his four MVP trophies, has three championship rings and has played in 14 All-Star Games. Most importantly, he is a great all-around player.

Knox will probably never be on James’ level as a player, but that’s not the point. James knows what it takes to be a top small forward in the league, and a great man on and off the court. Any knowledge he can provide Knox will be valuable, so here’s hoping they can talk some shop.

 
Josh Benjamin has been a staff writer at ESNY since 2018. He has had opinions about everything, especially the Yankees and Knicks. He co-hosts the “Bleacher Creatures” podcast and is always looking for new pieces of sports history to uncover, usually with a Yankee Tavern chicken parm sub in hand.