The New York Knicks are having a rough start to their 2019-2020 season, starting off the year with a 2-7 record, however, it is too early to push the “panic” button.

The biggest issue for the Knicks is their lack of a starting point guard. As of late their point guard duties have been given to several different players. However, when Frank Ntilikina was named their starting point guard against the Dallas Mavericks on November 8, the Knicks found success winning the game 106-102.

Ntilikina, whose natural position is shooting guard, showed poise and ran the court very well. Defensively, he’s been amazing, with 1.3 steals so far on the season.

R.J. Barrett, the Knicks 3^rd pick in the 2019 NBA draft is proving himself in a big way. Averaging 16 points-per-game, he’s a huge asset for the Knicks. His biggest problem is at the free-throw line, shooting a mere 45%.

Although he is very young and has a lot of learning to do, Barrett has shown massive growth in a short amount of time. Knicks fans should be pleased with how he is playing.

The Knicks filled their roster will some solid role players over the off-season. Players like; Marcus Morris, Julius Randle and Bobby Portis. These players have been key to the Knicks’ successes this season. They all play a major role in helping shape the younger players on the team.

Morris has been their best player so far, averaging 19 points-per-game. Portis, however, shows emotion and fire, something the teams have been lacking for years. While Randle is a big body in the paint and a good rebounder.

For the first time in years, the Knicks finally have an identity. They aren’t where they want to be, yet. But Knicks fans need to be patient with this team. They’re a mixture of veterans and youth that will take a little bit to grow.

Players are actually showing intensity, even in their loses. The Knicks are physical again, something they haven’t been since the 1990s. However, they are very undisciplined and are constantly in foul trouble early in the game.

They didn’t get the big free agents in the off-season like they said they would, and fans are still mad about it. But what they did get are savvy vets that play smash-mouth basketball and more compelling youth in their draft picks. The Knicks are only getting better.

There is no need to press the “panic” button yet. However, something that is a problem is their coaching.

David Fizdale took over as Knicks head coach last season. He looked promising and fans were excited. However, this year he looks clueless and fans are already calling for his firing.

Now, it’s only his second season with the team and he has an entirely new group of players to work with. But, the Knicks are nine games into their season and only have two wins to show for it. The front office should absolutely keep a new coaching option in mind.