2013 NBA Draft: New York Knicks Top 10 Draft Prospects
By Matt Shetler
4. Allen Crabbe, SG/ SF, California
March 23, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; California Golden Bears guard Allen Crabbe (23) reacts after the third round of the NCAA basketball tournament against the Syracuse Orange at HP Pavilion. Syracuse defeated California 66-60. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Anthony wants another scorer and Crabbe should be available at No. 24, an off-ball scorer who can occupy either wing position.
At 6’6” with a 6’11” wingspan, he has the size and length for his scoring to translate well to the NBA although he didn’t have a great year shooting the ball from behind the arc.
Overall though, he’s one of the better shooters in this draft and does an excellent job moving without the ball to get himself open.
The one negative is that he is a mediocre defender, something that won’t sit well with Woodson, but the kid can flat out shoot it and we all saw what happened when the Knicks didn’t have a second scoring option in the playoffs.
3. Isaiah Canaan, PG, Murray State
Canaan is a guy I love and think he would be a great fit with the Knicks, although he is more of a scorer instead of a pure playmaker, which makes him too similar to Raymond Felton for the short-term.
He averaged 22.4 points per game thanks to his athleticism, ball-handling and quick release, but his passing skills have been questioned although he may have answered them during his individual workouts.
Canaan has elite shooting ability and is one of the toughest guards in the draft. He’s quick off the dribble and unafraid of contact, while having the range to pull up from 26 feet.
Given his athleticism, jumper and his confidence, Canaan should be able to come in and contribute offensively as a rookie. He may be a reach at No. 24, but ultimately he could turn out to be a steal.