New York Knicks: 2017 NBA Draft Sleepers To Watch In Sweet 16

Rawle Alkins, Arizona Wildcats

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 19 (10/29/1997)
Height & Weight: 6’5″ & 220 pounds
2016-17 Slash Line: .467/.379/.733
2016-17 Season Averages: 27.9 MPG, 11.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 3PM

Rawle Alkins is widely regarded as a player who would be wise to declare for the 2018 NBA Draft. Though I’m not necessarily disagreeing, he’s one of the Top 30 prospects on my 2017 board, which accounts as much for his upside as it does his immediate value.

If you’re looking for an upside comparison, then Alkins compares favorably to Lance Stephenson—a 2013-14, Indiana Pacers version.

Alkins has a powerful frame and a knack for getting to the rim. He has quality handles and the upper body strength to muscle his way to the rim and finish in traffic when an open lane is unavailable and his team needs a basket.

When that fails, Alkins has a respectable outside shot and, like Stephenson, is a tenacious rebounder and capable facilitator at the 2.

Alkins is a New York native, which could breed a strong enough level of interest in playing for the Knicks to accept an early stint with the Westchester Knicks. Over time, there’s reason to believe he could develop into a starting-caliber player.

During the Sweet 16, Alkins will put his injured finger to the test against his toughest tournament foe yet: the No. 11 seed and perennially dangerous Xavier Musketeers.