After a disappointing finish to the 2013 season and still sporting one of the oldest and non-athletic rosters in the NBA, the New York Knicks simply cannot miss with the No. 24 overall pick in Thursday’s NBA Draft.
That the Knicks have a first-round pick alone is shocking, but general manager Glen Grunwald has to come away with a key contributor here because the Knicks do not pick again until the second round of the 2016 draft.
Nov 18, 2012; Charleston, SC, USA; Murray State Racers guard Isaiah Canaan (3) reacts after the play during the second half of the Charleston Classic Championship game against the Colorado Buffaloes at TD Arena. Buffaloes won 81-74. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Already over the luxury tax, the Knicks won’t be able to improve next year’s team via free agency or trade, so this is what you get when you think big splash move of the offseason.
That wouldn’t be as big of an issue if the Knicks didn’t have so many holes to fill in order to compete in 2014.
When you think of holes on Mike Woodson’s team, where do I begin?
There’s the need for a young backup point guard, which makes names like South Dakota State’s Nate Wolters and Murray Sate’s Isaiah Canaan very interesting prospects.
Then there is the need for some size in the frontcourt. Tyson Chandler gets no help from the Knicks other bigs and a player like Louisville’s Gorgui Dieng could add some much needed depth.
Finally there is the need for some scoring punch from the wing and then are numerous players who could help the Knicks in 2014.
But when it all comes down to it, Grunwald simply has to hit a home run.
With so many holes to fill, his job should be relatively easy on draft night. Select the player named “Best Available.”
With that being said, let’s take a look at the 10 best draft options that should be on the board when the Knicks select at No. 24.