CHARLOTTE — Kevin Knox wishes his shooting percentage was higher — as well as the Knicks’ victory total.
But as Knox heads to All-Star weekend to participate in Friday’s Rising Stars Challenge, the 6-9 rookie lottery pick feels more comfortable and less nervous on the court. He hopes to take that mindset into Friday’s scrimmage-like atmosphere as the U.S. rookies and sophomores face the world’s young guns at 9 p.m. at the Spectrum Center.
“I’ve struggled a little bit, I’m struggling now,’’ Knox said. “But it’s just getting more fun. I’m having a lot more fun, offensively, defensively, just playing my game. I’m not making shots, but I’m still having fun out there.”
As such, he willingly accepted a nine-point night on 2-of-9 shooting because the Knicks finally broke their franchise-record 18-game losing streak Thursday in Atlanta and he chipped in with 10 rebounds. Knicks coach David Fizdale has nagged Knox about his rebounding. Fizdale and GM Scott Perry even reached out to Knox’s parents.
Knox’s father was a wide receiver and Buffalo Bills draft pick and his mother was a volleyball star at Florida State.
“We got a great win (in Atlanta),’’ Knox said. “I rebounded. I’ve got to find other things (to do) on the court. They’ve been on me — to average about 7-to-10 rebounds a game. That’s something I can easily do. I’ve just got to keep that consistent.’’
Knox, averaging 4.3 rebounds, was an injury replacement for the Rising Stars after the original snub. That was likely because of poor offensive efficiency (36.4 percent shooting, 32.4 percent in the past 15 games), soft defense and the Knicks’ woeful record (11-47). He’s also averaging less than an assist per game.
Fizdale said Knox being on a young, fluctuating team hasn’t helped his growth. However, Wednesday vs. the 76ers, veteran DeAndre Jordan sternly lectured Knox on the bench after a defensive miscue.
“DeAndre is really great for us because he helps us young guys, just telling us where to be, talking to us pretty much 24/7 on both ends of the floor,’’ Knox said. “He was telling me just come on and bring it, bring energy. He really liked the way I rebounded (Friday). It helped him out a lot. He wants me to stay aggressive. He knows I can really rebound. Defensively, he knows I can play hard and really get after guys. It’s great to have him on this team because he really pushes that for us young guys.’’
As the draft’s second-youngest player, it is understandable Knox has shown flaws, but the expectations were sky-high after a glorious summer league. It is vital for Knox to show after All-Star weekend he is progressing, especially with the key summer when the Knicks want players such as Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard to feel they are joining a team with a future All-Star.
“A lot of ups and downs the first half of the season,’’ Knox said. “Offensively I’m just going to keep staying aggressive, stay in the gym and make shots. I’ve been struggling a little bit lately. I’m not going to be perfect, but go in there and keep working hard so I can come back after the break and be more aggressive on defense and offensively.”
Charlotte will serve as a chance for Knox to meet NBA stars in a casual setting.
“Being around some of the great players in this league, a lot of rookie/sophomores, some veterans will be there coaching the (rookie game),’’ said Knox, whose scoring average is 12.5 points. “Just watching, being in their presence, listening to them, it’s a great atmosphere. I’ll definitely take a lot away from that.’’
Knox is the only player in the game playing back-to-back-to-back after facing the Sixers and Atlanta Wednesday and Thursday. No wonder he’s ready to leave Charlotte on Saturday to unwind, head to Kentucky and watch his Wildcats play host to No. 1 Tennessee.
“I knew I was going to have to play three games in a row but (Friday’s) not really like a full-effort game,’’ Knox said. “I’m going to play hard, really have fun and enjoy. Just running up and down is still hard on your body. I’m a little sore. I iced my body, got a massage so I’m ready Friday. Once I get through it, I’ll be able to go home and get some rest, go see Kentucky.”
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