New York Knicks: Full 2017 NBA Mock Draft With Upside Comparisons

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Mar 8, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) controls the ball against Clemson Tigers forward Donte Grantham (15) during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

18. Indiana Pacers: Luke Kennard, Indiana Pacers

Ultimate Upside Comparison: J.J. Redick
Safe Upside Comparison: Carlos Delfino
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 20 (6/24/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’5.5″, 196 pounds, 6’5.25″
2016-17 Slash Line: .489/.438/.856
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.5 MPG, 19.5 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.4 3PM

If the Indiana Pacers are going to maintain the commitment to an offensive-minded vision, then the key will be to find consistent playmakers. Re-signing Jeff Teague will help, but Indiana needs to find shooters who can also create off the bounce.

It’s fair to question whether or not Paul George will remain in Indiana, but if he is, it’s players like Luke Kennard who can help Indiana restore its status.

Kennard compares favorably to fellow Duke Blue Devils alum J.J. Redick. He’s one of the best shooters in this draft class, which creates inevitable appeal alongside George, but he’s also a capable creator for himself and others.

Kennard is in no ways an elite playmaker, but he can provide the spacing of C.J. Miles while adding the Redick-like benefit of being able to attack and distribute.

A lighter comparison for Kennard is Carlos Delfino, who spaced the floor and facilitated at respectable levels on multiple teams. He’s not quite as skilled with the ball in his hands as Fernandez, but he’s constantly improving.

Kennard made a massive leap from his freshman season to his sophomore campaign, and his ceiling projects to be rather high in the NBA.

The New York Knicks should consider him with a potential trade.

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