Round 2, Pick 58: Rawle Alkins, Arizona Wildcats
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 19 (10/29/1997)
Height & Weight: 6’5″ & 220 pounds
2016-17 Slash Line: .460/.373/.733
2016-17 Season Averages: 28.0 MPG, 10.9 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 3PM
In this version of the 2017 NBA mock draft, the New York Knicks are placing an emphasis on physicality and versatility. Both Frank Ntilikina and Justin Jackson have intriguing size and length for their respective positions, as well as the strength to potentially physically overwhelm the opposition.
At No. 58 overall, the Knicks go with a player who has significantly more upside than he’s given credit for in shooting guard Rawle Alkins.
Alkins bares a striking resemblance to current Indiana Pacers shooting guard Lance Stephenson. Like Stephenson, he has a powerful upper body and the ability to change gears in transition, which enabled him to excel as both a scorer and playmaker for the Arizona Wildcats in 2016-17.
Alkins also has the makings of a consistent outside shot, although it will take time and additional training before he’s a reliable shooter at the next level.
Defensively, Alkins’ ability to throw his weight around would help the Knicks return to what they were once known for. New York’s vaunted defense during the 1990s was as much about technique as it was the physicality that made teams dread having to go into Madison Square Garden for a road game.
Alkins should be an option at No. 45 overall, but based on his current projections, the ultimate steal would be available at No. 58 in the 2017 NBA Draft.