One year ago, the Phil Jackson-led New York Knicks selected Frank Ntilikina with the No. 8 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. While that was not considered a “reach” by the general consensus, the overall feeling was that the young guard was cast by Jackson as a “triangle point guard.” Just days later, however, Jackson resigned his position and, while Ntilikina displayed flashes as a rookie, his future doesn’t appear to be in a lead guard role, but rather almost as a wing.
Fast-forward 12 months and the Knicks again have a top-10 selection and could be evaluating… point guards. It has to be noted that New York has other areas of relative need but, if the rumblings prove accurate that the front office sees Ntilikina as a supporting piece off the ball, the lottery selection could be used to snatch a theoretical lead ball-handler and creator.
Beyond that, the Knicks are still in a building pattern, especially when considering that Kristaps Porzingis isn’t currently healthy and the franchise is now led by David Fizdale on the bench. Regardless, the organization is scheduled to make two selections, No. 9 and No. 36, in the upcoming 2018 draft and both spots provide capital to add an asset that could be quite useful in the future.
Here are a few options for the Knicks (in alphabetical order) at either selection, should they choose to stay put and not pursue trade options elsewhere.
- Mikal Bridges – SF, Villanova – This wouldn’t be the sexiest pick for the Knicks but Bridges is simply good at basketball. His 3-and-D profile is well-documented but he would provide needed floor-spacing while also providing theoretical defensive potential on the wing. His upside may not be off the charts given age and role but no one would bat an eye if this was the choice.
- Miles Bridges – SF/PF, Michigan State – There is some debate as to Bridges’ ultimate positional future but everyone basically agrees that he can play. It would be easy to see him unlocking his considerable potential on a floor with more spacing in the NBA and Bridges has few weaknesses. In New York, he might even work well as a small-ball power forward in a lineup with Porzingis at center.
- Jalen Brunson – PG, Villanova – Brunson’s stock is difficult to pin down but some believe he could slip into the mid-30’s and that would be a win for the Knicks. Obviously, this wouldn’t make a ton of sense if New York tabbed a point guard at No. 9 (see below) but Brunson has the upside of a starter in the league and a very reasonable expectation of competent backup point guard play for a long time.
- Elie Okobo – PG, France – In credible mock drafts, Okobo’s range seems to be absolutely massive, from the late teens all the way into the 40’s. Personally, it seems like a stretch to envision him lasting to No. 36 but some of the buzz tells me otherwise. He would be a fun offensive creation partner with Frank Ntilikina in the backcourt and their skill sets would overlap brilliantly.
- Collin Sexton – PG, Alabama – Sexton is slipping in some circles and I can see why. He is a high-end competitor with athleticism and college production but, on the side, you have to assume that he’ll either greatly improve his jump shooting or become a dominant defensive force. I’m not sure either of those are realistic outcomes but, in the same breath, the Knicks could center on point guard and the other option may very well be gone by the time New York comes on the clock.
- Trae Young – PG, Oklahoma – This is a very popular marriage. Young’s offensive upside would be tantalizing in New York and he might be the most famous prospect in the draft, making the links even more obvious. Beyond that, his “bust” potential is mitigated a bit by the time the No. 9 pick arrives and, with Frank Ntilikina there to potentially partner as a defense-first option in the backcourt, the fit is snug… if he’s available.
