New York Knicks: Is Donovan Mitchell An Option In 2017 NBA Draft?

2. Fitting The System

The New York Knicks run a system that’s equal parts polarizing and proven. Phil Jackson won 11 NBA championships getting superstar players to check their egos and buy in, but he’s been unable to run it effectively without a superstar in New York.

In pursuit of the right players to effectively execute the triangle offense, it stands to reason that Donovan Mitchell could be an ideal fit.

Mitchell’s ability to facilitate at a respectable level would alleviate pressure from the point guard. He could also play a similar role to Ron Harper and Derek Fisher in the sense that he’d be able to facilitate when need be, but wouldn’t face the burden of a Chris Paul or Rajon Rondo.

Mitchell is also an effective 3-point shooter who can space the floor in an off-ball capacity and create in isolation.

With a well-rounded offensive skill set and explosive athleticism, Mitchell could be groomed into a featured player. There’s no guaranteeing that he’d excel in that regard, but this would be an upside pick and a worthy project.

If the Knicks’ coaching staff can motivate players to work as hard as they need to, then Mitchell could develop into a special mid-to-late first round snag.