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

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 4, 2017; Stillwater, OK, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Frank Mason III (0) drives to the basket as Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Jawun Evans (1) defends during the first half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Stillwater, OK, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Frank Mason III (0) drives to the basket as Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Jawun Evans (1) defends during the first half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports /
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January 21, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Kobi Simmons (2) shoots against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
January 21, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Kobi Simmons (2) shoots against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Kobi Simmons, Arizona Wildcats

Projection: Late Second Round
Upside Comparison: Elfrid Payton
Age: 19 (7/4/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4.5″, 166 pounds, 6’6″
2016-17 Slash Line: .395/.327/.775
2016-17 Season Averages: 23.5 MPG, 8.7 PPG, 2.0 APG, 1.6 RPG, 0.6 SPG, 0.9 3PM

The Arizona Wildcats had an abundance of quality guards in 2016-17, but none have as high of a ceiling as Kobi Simmons. The 19-year-old possesses explosive athleticism, immense defensive potential, and the tools to become a high-level playmaker.

It’s more about upside than anything else at this current stage, but the New York Knicks can afford to invest in a long-term project in the second round of the 2017 NBA Draft.

Simmons stands at just under 6’5″ with a 6’6″ wingspan and a near 39″ max vertical leap. He also has above-average lateral quickness, which combines with his height and length to create the potential for an elite level of defensive execution.

If Jeff Hornacek can coach Simmons correctly on the defensive end of the floor, he could have the legitimate lockdown defender that’s currently absent from New York.

Offensively, Simmons’ athleticism is complemented by improving handles and a jump shot that isn’t necessarily broken. A fair comparison for him on both ends of the floor is Elfrid Payton, but the potential exists for him to reach an even higher level of execution.

It will take time and development, but if the Knicks commit to helping Simmons realize his potential, he can be a genuine star at the next level.

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