With the 2016-17 NBA season now a lost one for the New York Knicks, we take a glimpse into the future regarding the 2017 NBA Draft.
The New York Knicks are playing for draft lottery position at this point in the season. There’s really no way around that.The team significantly underperformed after the high-profile acquisitions of Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah and Courtney Lee. Despite all of Phil Jackson’s roster misses, he has done well with the draft.
The 2017 NBA Draft is stacked with players full of NBA potential. So depending on lottery position, who would be a good addition to the so-called “super team” to get them over the hump and out of this four-year playoff drought?
Here are key prospects the Knicks may select with the first round pick:
1. Frank Ntilikina (PG, 6’5″ France)
At this point, it is no secret that Phil Jackson covets big point guards. Ntilikina stands 6-foot-5 and is a true playmaking point guard especially in the pick and roll. He possesses above average athleticism, good ball handling skills and high basketball IQ.
While he is capable of playing above the rim, Ntilikina tends to play a smoother style of basketball. His jump shot has developed some consistency, especially when set, although his mechanics can use a little work. His combination of size and athleticism projects well for him to be an elite defender who can guard any position on the perimeter.
When fully engaged defensively, his lateral quickness allows him to stay in front of his opponent and his ridiculous length (7-foot wingspan) disrupts passing lanes. Ntilikina will have to pack some muscle on his wiry frame. He has not been challenged by constant elite competition. Therefore, it remains to be seen how he will do especially with point guard being the premier position in the NBA now.
Overall, Ntilikina upside is very high. It is also apparent that Phil is fond of European players.
2. Dennis Smith Jr. (North Carolina State, PG, 6’3″, Freshman)
Dennis Smith Jr. is the quintessential point guard in the modern NBA. He uses a quick first step and good ball-handling skills to get to the rim easily. He is a good finisher in the paint using his freakish athleticism, and speed in transition. Smith is great at reading and reacting, especially off pick and rolls. He is exceptional at drawing contact on his drives while also being a very willing passer.
He can finish craftily with either hand, but his jump shot is a work in progress. Defensively, he moves well laterally and has quick hands that could lead to racking up in the steals column. His high turnover rate is questionable for a ball-dominant lead guard. Smith also tends to produce unevenly although he showed up big in big moments. For example, he posted 32 points 6 assists in the upset over Duke.
Derrick Rose contract expires at the end of the season and the Knicks could look to replace him with a comparable player if Smith is still on the board.
3. Malik Monk (Kentucky, SG, 6’3″, Sophomore)
Malik Monk equals instant offense with the ability to put the ball in the hoop from anywhere on the court. He possesses elite athleticism showcased by a vertical leap of 42-inches. Monk can take over a game at any time and light up the scoreboard as he demonstrated in the 47-point outpour against North Carolina.
One would believe there is room for growth defensively because of his athleticism. He is a combo guard, whose size is rather small for the NBA shooting guard position. It remains to be seen if Monk is capable of being a consistent playmaker to play point guard in the NBA.
While he is a very gifted athlete, bigger shooting guards will be able to shoot over the top. His elite scoring ability and athleticism make him a very intriguing prospect for the Knicks.
4. Jayson Tatum (Duke, SF, 6’8″, Freshman)
Let me preface by saying Tatum is a long shot for the Knicks. He is steadily climbing up the draft board as his play improves. The Knicks may not be able to lose enough at this point to fall in range to get him.
Tatum is a silky smooth player that is very reminiscent of a young Carmelo Anthony. He can play with his back to the basket, has a strong face-up game and his jump shot is improving in consistency. Tatum has demonstrated a strong ability as a playmaker as of late. In today’s small ball game, he can easily slide in at the stretch four position as well. Tatum has good size, decent athleticism, but is not a jump out the gym athlete. This puts his defensive upside at the next level into question. He sometimes settles for difficult shots and relies too much on his dribble.
If the Knicks were in a position to pick him, it would be interesting to see if Phil pulls the plug since Tatum has similar characteristics to current star Carmelo Anthony.