New York Knicks to Work Out Former Wisconsin Star Nigel Hayes (Report)
Mar 5, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers forward Nigel Hayes (10) returns to the bench during the game with the Minnesota Golden Gophers at the Kohl Center. Wisconsin defeated Minnesota 66-49. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks have two second-round picks in the 2017 NBA Draft. They could use one of them to select this former Wisconsin Badger.

The 2017 NBA Draft is now less than two weeks away, and the Knicks are continuing to audition potential second-round picks. They have two of those (No. 44, No. 58).

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Wisconsin power forward Nigel Hayes is the latest veteran prospect to work out for Phil Jackson’s team. Hayes, 22, played four years for the Badgers and was part of some of the best teams in school history.

Hayes was a stud during his first two years before regressing after his partner in crime, Frank Kaminsky, left for the NBA. When Hayes’ workload increased, he struggled. So, maybe he won’t be a star at the next level.

However, he’s viewed as a potential legitimate role player in the NBA after a strong showing at the draft combine.

Via Begley:

Hayes measured at 6-8 at the NBA Draft Combine with a 7-3 wingspan and some college observers see him as having the potential to be a versatile defender at the next level with a strong outside shot – something the Knicks certainly could use.

 
I'm ESNY's Executive Editor for EliteSportsNY.com. I cover the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets. Email: chip.murphy@elitesportsny.com Chip Murphy covers the NBA for Elite Sports NY. You can find him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy.