New York Knicks: Non-lottery point guards to consider in 2017 NBA Draft

Frank Jackson, Duke Blue Devils

Projection: Late First, Early Second Round
Upside Comparison: Derrick Rose (2016-17)
Age: 19 (5/4/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3.5″, 202 pounds, 6’7.5″
2016-17 Slash Line: .473/.395/.755
2016-17 Season Averages: 24.9 MPG, 10.9 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.4 3PM

Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson is one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft class. Generally projected to be a shooting guard at the next level, Jackson could experience success at the point guard position in the triangle offense.

Jackson plays a comparable style to a 2016-17 version of Derrick Rose, but with a significantly better 3-point shot.

A potential trade up in the draft to select Jackson could look like this:

Jackson is one of the most powerful athletes in this country, which is the foundation for his offensive game. He can blow by opponents with a quick first step, and rise above the rim for aw-inspiring finishes in both transition and traffic.

Jackson also converted 51 3-point field goals on 39.5 percent shooting as a freshman, draining an average of 2.3 3-point field goals per 40 minutes.

It’s Jackson’s ability to play through contact and finish in the paint, however, that should appeal the most.

For the New York Knicks, adding Jackson to the mix would enable Jeff Hornacek to fill the void left by Rose. Although he may not score as often Rose was able to in 2016-17, Jackson’s jump shot would enable him to play better without the ball.

Jackson is a tweener, but the Knicks can play him at point guard within the triangle offense and exploit athletic advantages on a consistent basis.