The Orlando Magic were looking to buy low on a young point guard. They “expressed interest” Frank Ntilikina of the New York Knicks.
The New York Knicks remained quiet on the trade market following the Kristaps Porzingis trade. But their lack of activity wasn’t due to a lack of interest around the league. According to Ian Begley of ESPN, the Orlando Magic “expressed interest” in Frank Ntilikina.
Orlando expressed interest in Frank Ntilikina prior to the trade deadline but was told that New York was not trading the second-year guard, per league sources.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) February 7, 2019
This bodes well for Ntilikina’s future with the Knicks. What that future may hold is anyone’s guess, but he’s not done in New York yet. He may play off the ball alongside Dennis Smith Jr. when he returns from injury.
Ntilikina, 20, seems too young to give up on just yet. Furthermore, he’s an excellent defender and even if his offense never completely comes around, he still could have a place in the rotation as a defensive stopper. Regardless, it is still too early to give up on the young French point guard.
The Magic had their hearts set on finding a young point guard. The Philadelphia 76ers obliged and sent Markelle Fultz to Disney World for Jonathan Simmons and two draft picks.
Orlando is sending Jonathon Simmons, OKC first-round pick, and Cleveland second-round pick for Fultz. https://t.co/gW23j7DAIU
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 7, 2019
Fultz’s fall from grace has been remarkable. The first overall pick has failed to live up to the hype and is one of the most interesting stories in the NBA. Fultz lost his jump shot and has suffered from injury woes.
That being said, if he were to figure out his shot, Fultz could develop into one of the bright young point guards in the NBA.
It’s unclear what the return for Ntilikina would have been, but for now, the Knicks are willing to hold onto the 20-year-old point guard.
