Sources: Kristaps Porzingis has fans in Knicks front office

In his latest mock draft, SI's Chris Mannix projects the New York Knicks to take Latvian big man Kristaps Porzingis.

In his latest mock draft, SI's Chris Mannix projects the New York Knicks to take Latvian big man Kristaps Porzingis.

According to Mannix's sources, the Knicks are looking hard at four players with the fourth overall selection: Porzingis, point guard Emmanuel Mudiay, Duke wing Justise Winslow and Kentucky center Willie Cauley-Stein.

Though the others are widely deemed more NBA-ready, Porzingis 'has earned fans' in the Knicks' front office with his ability to stretch the floor and intriguing offensive skill set. Clarence Gaines, a Knicks advisor close to Phil Jackson, has scouted Porzingis as well.

Porzingis, 19, spent last season in the Spanish ACB League with Sevilla, where he averaged 10.7 points and 4.8 rebounds in 21.7 minutes per game in league play.

On SI Now, Porzingis said he's hopeful the Knicks might select him.

• MANNIX: Mock Draft 3.0

- Jeremy Woo