Lonzo Ball, UCLA Bruins
Position: Point Guard
Age: 19 (10/27/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 190 pounds, 6’7″
2016-17 Slash Line: .551/.412/.673
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.1 MPG, 14.6 PPG, 7.6 APG, 6.0 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 2.2 3PM
Perhaps the most polarizing prospect in the 2017 NBA Draft is UCLA Bruins point guard Lonzo Ball. He has the court vision and defensive potential of a young Jason Kidd, as well as a father who has become a divisive figure in the sports world.
If the New York Knicks manage to secure a top-3 selection in the 2017 NBA Draft, then Ball will be a player whom Phil Jackson must evaluate and consider.
Ball’s appeal is that he’s a 6’6″ point guard with a 6’7″ wingspan and a strong 190-pound frame. He’s a generational facilitator who put that gift on display with an average of 7.6 assists per game and an assist-to-turnover ratio of 3.08.
Ball’s defensive consistency was questioned in 2016-17, but his upside on that end of the floor is pure and undeniable.
The primary point of contention on the court is that Ball’s shooting form and handles may limit his proficiency in the NBA. He executed well in college, but has an obvious hitch in his shot that could hurt his ability to shoot off the bounce.
There are pros and cons to weigh here, but if the Knicks have a chance to draft Ball, then Phil Jackson will need to give it serious thought.