New York Knicks: 5 Reasons To Select Malik Monk In 2017 NBA Draft

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Dec 7, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) dunks the ball against Valparaiso Crusaders guard Shane Hammink (11) in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Valparaiso 87-63. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Elite Athleticism

From a purely athletic perspective, Malik Monk may be the most awe-inspiring player in the 2017 NBA Draft. Much has been made of his 6’3″ stature and 6’6″ wingspan, but not enough is being said about how athletically gifted Monk truly is.

With the physical ability to be a terror in transition and an overwhelming threat in isolation, Monk is the type of prospect whom the New York Knicks have needed for quite some time.

Monk has a documented 42.0″ max vertical leap and a 36.5″ no-step vert. That leaping ability enables him to not only rise above the rim, but hang and glide through the air for crafty and creative finishes beneath it.

With Derrick Rose entering unrestricted free agency, the Knicks will need a player who can finish at the rim in an effective and versatile manner—and Monk may be the answer.

Merely being able to jump out of the gym isn’t enough to be a great scorer, but Monk offers more. He’ll need to continue polishing his handles, but his paralyzing first step enables him to create penetration on a consistent basis.

Coupled with Monk being a blur in transition, the Knicks could find the elite athlete who’s currently missing from the roster at No. 8 overall.

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