New York Knicks: Jaron Blossomgame A Wise Target In 2017 NBA Draft

Mar 1, 2016; Greenville, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers forward Jaron Blossomgame (5) reacts after a three pointer against the Virginia Cavaliers during the second half at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The Cavaliers won 64-57. Mandatory Credit: Dawson Powers-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2016; Greenville, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers forward Jaron Blossomgame (5) reacts after a three pointer against the Virginia Cavaliers during the second half at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The Cavaliers won 64-57. Mandatory Credit: Dawson Powers-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Clemson Tigers forward Jaron Blossomgame (5) dribbles the ball as Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets forward James White (33) defends in the first half during day two of the ACC conference tournament at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 9, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Clemson Tigers forward Jaron Blossomgame (5) dribbles the ball as Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets forward James White (33) defends in the first half during day two of the ACC conference tournament at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Offensive Versatility

Jaron Blossomgame is a polarizing figure on the offensive end of the floor. He shot 19.1 percent worse from beyond the arc in 2016-17 than he did in 2015-16, and suffered a sharp decline of 6.8 percent at the free throw line.

True as that may be, Blossomgame has shown flashes of being a high-level role player as far as offensive execution is concerned.

Blossomgame doesn’t have the most advanced handles, but he can attack a closeout and finish above the rim with overwhelming power. He’s a quality offensive rebounder for his position, as well, and has an excellent second jump that enables him to finish in traffic.

While he may have regressed severely in 2016-17, Blossomgame shot a blistering 44.6 percent from beyond the arc in 2015-16.

Perhaps the most valuable aspect of Blossomgame’s offensive value is that he can post players up—an invaluable skill in the triangle offense. That’s enabled him to consistently get to the charity stripe at a rate of 6.1 free throw attempts per 40 minutes over the past three seasons.

The New York Knicks need to find a prospect who’s willing to put the team over individual glory in the 2017 NBA Draft. Blossomgame checks that box.