As the New York Knicks begin to shift their focus towards the offseason, they can start to turn their attention to the draft. This past season for the Knicks has been a frustrating logjam at point guard between Elfrid Payton, Frank Ntilikina and Dennis Smith Jr. Luckily for the New York Knicks, there were will be plenty of point guards available at the top of the draft. Here are the options.
1. Lamelo Ball
Lamelo is everything you want in a point guard prospect. Incredible vision, great size, and a dual-threat with his ability to score. Lamelo has basketball intangibles you cannot teach. His shooting isn’t bad, but it has had inconsistencies. As Lamelo fills out his lanky frame it should allow him to improve his strength on defense. A creative playmaker who can take the pressure off of R.J. Barrett, Lamelo would likely be the Knicks’ top choice.
2. Tyrese Haliburton
Haliburton may not be as flashy as Lamelo, but he’s still a terrific passer. He’s great at operating out of the pick and roll and putting constant pressure on a defense. He’s not incredibly explosive and you wonder what his ceiling as a scorer may be. Haliburton is already a terrific defender, and his leadership qualities would make him a great fit.
3. Cole Anthony
Once thought of as the potential top pick the draft, Anthony’s stock has taken a hit from poor efficiency in his freshman season with the Tar Heels. Anthony’s has a tremendous ability to score using sneaky athleticism and crafty finishing. He can shoot effectively off of the dribble. His future as a point guard is murky. He’s looked more like a “tweener†guard in college. His numbers at UNC may not be the best, but the NBA spacing could do wonders for his game.
4. Killian Hayes
The Frenchman has seen his draft stock rise lately due to his tremendous passing abilities and high basketball IQ. Many scouts see an ascending talent who could end up being a steal. He’s not the most explosive athlete. His spotty defense has also led to questions about whether he can be an effective 2-way player. Hayes will probably be one of the more divisive prospects among scouts.
5. Nico Mannion
The Arizona Wildcat has shot up draft boards since the beginning of the season. A true combo guard who can score from all over the court who has also made strides as a passer. He’s great at changing direction and creating shots for himself. His strength often leaves him vulnerable on defense. Some scouts may wonder if his strength will also hamper his offense in the NBA. Overall, a very smart and explosive point guard who may end up being underrated.