New York Knicks: Draft Needs and Prospect Watchlist
Two seasons ago, the Knicks shocked the basketball world with a run to the four seed. The sudden all-NBA leap from Julius Randle combined with Coach Tom Thibedau’s stingy defense fueled this over performing squad.
After a down year in 2022, the Knicks find themselves firmly back in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. However, this time, their roster is significantly beefed up. Star point guard Jalen Brunson was added to the equation via free agency this off-season, and youngsters like Immanuel Quickley and Quentin Grimes are making a huge impact.
Still, this isn’t quite a contending team. New York will look to take a step or two closer to reaching the highest level via the draft this off-season with Dallas’ first round pick.
Projected First-Round Pick (Per Tankathon): 18
Team Needs: Big Wing, Shooting, Wing Defense, Stretch Big
Here are some reasonable prospects New York fans should keep their eye on as potential targets come June, and how they’d fit in:
Gradey Dick, Kansas
If Dallas continues to climb up the standings with the addition of Kyrie Irving, the Knicks’ may be well out of reach of Dick’s range come draft night. However, if he is attainable, the Jayhawks sniper would be the dream pick for Knicks fans. Shooting 42.7% from deep on 5.5 attempts per game, Dick is the best shooter in this year’s class. In addition, he brings shrewd instincts on defense and as a passer. Best of all, he does all of this standing at 6-foot-8.
He is ways away from becoming a legitimate creator, but Dick would quickly patch up multiple holes on the Knicks roster while instantly becoming a fan favorite.
Brice Sensabaugh, Ohio State
Sensabaugh has been one of the biggest climbers in this year’s class, and for good reason. Averaging 16.3 PPG, he’s the definition of a bucket. The Buckeyes freshman shoots 43.2% from beyond the arc and is a killer in the mid-range.
He isn’t the tallest, standing at 6-foot-6, but his 235-pound frame possesses so much strength. Additionally, Sensabaugh is a very underrated passer.
If Sensabaugh can hit his higher-end outcomes, likely either by riding on his ever-ascending shot-making ability or by becoming more explosive, he’ll bring electric wing creation to the Mecca.
Kris Murray, Iowa
Twin of Keegan, last year’s fourth overall pick, Kris Murray has come into his own this season. He’s taken the reigns as Iowa’s do-it-all leader, and he’s thrived in his new role. The 6-foot-8 forward plays versatile defense, makes threes, and can score in the paint. He is 22 years old and likely won’t be much of a creator at the next level, but his instant impact could be valuable to the Knicks.
Other potential targets:
Maxwell Lewis, Pepperdine
Jordan Hawkins, UConn
Taylor Hendricks, UCF
Dariq Whitehead, Duke
Noah Clowney, Alabama
Kyle Flipowski, Duke
Jalen Hood-Schfino, Indiana
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