New York Knicks’ draft target: Josh Green

Dec 22, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; A view of the Knicks logo on a players jacket during the national anthem prior to the game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks will have multiple picks in the upcoming 2020 NBA draft, including 2 in the first round. While much of the attention will be focused on the Knicks’ top selection, the Knicks will have a chance to add 2 quality players with the Clippers first-round pick and Charlotte’s second-round pick. One player they could look at is Arizona’s Josh Green.

Josh Green’s player profile includes 2 things the New York Knicks desperately need: Shooting and defense. You’ll see the term “3-and-D” all over Josh Green’s draft profiles. Green is a prototypical shooting guard/slasher standing 6’6 tall with a long 6’10 wingspan.

Lockdown Perimeter Defender

Green’s potential on defense is exciting. His tenacity and long, stocky build project him to be a plus defender at the NBA level. He’s got incredibly fluid hips that allow him to make quick rotations and hang with speedy players. He has great anticipation defending drives and stepbacks. Green has the potential to be someone that can defend point guards, shooting guards, and small forwards.

Spot Up Shooter

His potential on offense may be more limited. Green isn’t much of a ball-handler, tough shot maker, or passer. To this point in his career, he has shown to be primarily a complementary offensive player. He’s been a solid shooter with a good form that should translate to the league. Aside from his spot-up shooting Green also utilizes his high basketball IQ, and has shown a knack for making smart cuts to the basket.

Fitting With The Knicks

Josh Green is an ideal complementary player in the modern NBA. A plus shooter who can handle multiple defensive responsibilities, he could play plenty of minutes as a role player off the bench for the Knicks. Green is just a freshman and won’t be 20 years old until November, so you wonder if he has the upside to be more than just an off-ball threat on offense. He’s an ideal fit for the Knicks to draft with their later picks.

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