New York Knicks: Team-specific 2017 NBA Mock Draft with trades 1.0

Round 1, Pick 8: Dennis Smith Jr., North Carolina State Wolfpack

Position: Point Guard
Age: 19 (11/25/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 195 pounds, 6’3″
2016-17 Slash Line: .455/.359/.715
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.8 MPG, 18.1 PPG, 6.2 APG, 4.6 RPG, 1.9 SPG, 1.7 3PM

There will be a fierce debate in the days leading up to the 2017 NBA Draft about whom the New York Knicks should select. No player seems to be more divisive than slashing playmaker Dennis Smith Jr., who doesn’t fit the typical mold of a triangle point guard.

The pick at No. 12 will tie this all together, however, and enable Smith to be more than just a point guard. He can become the perimeter’s franchise player.

Despite playing on a team that provided minimal spacing, Smith was one of the most effective slashers in the country. He routinely found his way into the paint and either finished amongst the trees or got to the free throw line.

See: 7.2 free throw attempts per 40 minutes.

The triangle offense requires a player who can consistently get to the rim, and Smith would fill that void with upside that Derrick Rose may no longer have.

Beyond his slashing ability, Smith has a lethal midrange game, a respectable 3-point shot, and intriguing court vision. He can force the issue in every one of those areas, but that’s far more manageable than actually developing a non-existent skill.

If you’re looking for an ultimate upside comparison, think somewhere between Damian Lillard and Russell Westbrook. Smith can be that special.