New York Knicks: 5 Reasons To Select Jonathan Isaac In 2017 NBA Draft

5 of 6

Dec 17, 2016; Sunrise, FL, USA; Manhattan Jaspers guard Zavier Turner (3) passes the ball around Florida State Seminoles forward Jonathan Isaac (1) during the first half at BB&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Defensive Potential

Nothing will matter more to the attempted salvation of the New York Knicks than the fortification of the team’s defense. New York ranked No. 23 in scoring defense and No. 25 in points allowed per 100 possessions in 2016-17.

The Knicks’ small forwards all ranked No. 55 or worse by position in Defensive Real Plus-Minus in 2016-17, which makes the need for Jonathan Isaac all the more pressing.

Standing at 6’11” with a 7’1.25″ wingspan, Isaac has the size and length to overwhelm small forwards on the defensive end of the floor. Assuming he bulks up, he could also develop the versatility to defend power forwards on a consistent basis.

Isaac proved just how well he can put those physical gifts to use with averages of 9.3 defensive rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.8 steals per 40 minutes.

Isaac’s physical profile enables him to play the passing lanes, keep slashers in front of him, and contest shots from all angles. He’s also a relentless defensive rebounder whose effort in that area is desperately needed in New York.

With Isaac and Kristaps Porzingis working the forward spots, the Knicks would have the potential for genuinely elite defensive execution.

Home/Knicks News