New York Knicks: 5 Reasons To Select Luke Kennard In 2017 NBA Draft

Feb 18, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots over Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Keyshawn Woods (1) in the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots over Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Keyshawn Woods (1) in the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 18, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots over Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Keyshawn Woods (1) in the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots over Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Keyshawn Woods (1) in the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

The New York Knicks will host Luke Kennard for a pre-draft workout. The question is: why should the Knicks consider Kennard in the 2017 NBA Draft?


The New York Knicks are led by a head coach who knows a thing or two about what it takes to succeed in the NBA Playoffs. Jeff Hornacek played in systems that were not only highly effective, but revolutionary and ahead of their time.

A recent report indicates that the Knicks are considering a prospect in the 2017 NBA Draft who’s reminiscent of Hornacek himself.

New York has scheduled workouts for a number of projected first-round draft picks, but most expect to be selected within the range of the No. 8 overall selection. The latest report further supports the theory that Phil Jackson will acquire a second first-round selection.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Duke Blue Devils star and Hornacek carbon copy—with a southpaw twist—Luke Kennard is on the Knicks’ radar.

Based on the similarities between the player and the coach, it’s not hard to see why New York is intrigued by Kennard’s upside.

For those unfamiliar, Kennard is a shooting guard who stands at 6’5.5″ and 196 pounds with a 6’5.25″ wingspan and an 8’2.5″ standing reach. In 2017, he was a consensus second-team All-American, a first team All-ACC honoree, and the ACC Tournament MVP.

Beyond the intriguing physical profile and impressive accolades is a prospect who’s cultivating a game that’s tailor made for the modern era.

As the 2017 NBA Draft nears, here are five reasons the New York Knicks should be considering a move for Luke Kennard.