Frank, Mitch and Knox need to just get reps on reps on reps. These kids are so full of upside it's insane and yes, they're going to make mistakes and look raw especially when they're up against quality pro's and the fatigue of a long season hits...but these kids could really be something. I was really HYPE to watch Mitch move his feet man. Dude was winning position battles when he set screens or a shot went up on both ends; anticipating where ballhandlers would go and beating them to the spot; and timing his challenges so that he was a deterrant even when he didn't get the block. He can contribute early by outworking people, because his size and agility are really impressive. He was the most exciting aspect of the game for me.
Knox wasn't far behind. From the first two points, Knox seemed determined to kill the motor questions we had. Dude dribbling coast to coast and through pick and rolls for scores or fouls at that size...it's an immediate flash of go-to scorer potential from one of the youngest players in the league. Defensively, if he keeps his hands active and uses his length then you've got potential to switch on everybody without getting you in trouble. The only thing is, it's potential. Expect growing pains; he's young and with aggression will come mistakes. But the scoring potential alone is enough to be excited and the tools to be a quality defender are there.
With Frank, it's as clear as ever that his mindset will define his impact. At one point in the second half, he telegraphed a pass right after the ball cross half court and it was deflected out of bounds. The Knicks took a timeout and instead of being benched, he actually got the ball right back in his hands to attack the basket, draw a big and make a beautiful assist to the cutting big man. If the offense at SL is gonna mimic the pro team, he'll need to be assertive because everyone has the green light to bring that ball up and attack a screen. It's gonna take time for him to get comfortable pushing and being greedy at times, but you can see at the times when he's pushing the pace and letting instincts take over; there's potential to be a PROBLEM.
Dotson shouldn't slip under the radar either. He was legitimately aggressive on both ends and that boy's motor is the truth. I liked that clip of him giving advice in the huddle too, bit of leadership quality showing. I think he's going to be one of the pleasant surprises this year.
Speaking of pleasant surprises; Alan Williams still plays like Alan Williams but everything was a little bit sharper and that can make a big difference. If the whole package is sharper and it's not just streaky stuff, then this dude is gonna be a contributor.
Other than that, Trier is an interesting prospect. He's got good ball handling and range on gunslinger mentality, but then flashes that awareness and passing ability sometimes. He might not always make the best read but he knows how to score and when he wants to be a playmaker there is some ability there. I could see why Fiz would want to make use of someone like that.