New York Knicks: Realistically ambitious 2017 NBA Mock Draft

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Mar 17, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) handles the ball against Troy Trojans forward DeVon Walker (25) during the second half in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 27. . Small Forward. Duke Blue Devils. Jayson Tatum. 8

Upside Comparison: Carmelo Anthony
Position: Small Forward
Age: 19 (3/3/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’8.25″, 204 pounds, 6’11”
2016-17 Slash Line: .452/.342/.849
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.3 MPG, 16.8 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 1.4 3PM

This is an admittedly ambitious outcome, but it’s one that hasn’t been explored quite enough. Jayson Tatum could realistically fall to No. 8 overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, and if he does, it’s hard to imagine the New York Knicks would allow him to slide any further.

Tatum’s best upside comparison is none other than Carmelo Anthony, and his youth could enable Phil Jackson and Jeff Hornacek to mold him within the triangle offense.

Like Anthony, Tatum bases his offensive game out of the mid-post area—something the triangle offense wholeheartedly encourages. Tatum played within a team-based scheme in college, and would be best as the ISO option in a motion offense that he willingly participates in.

There’s no possible way to guarantee that Tatum will develop into a 10-time All-Star, but he has a similar skill set to ‘Melo, and that’s worth exploring.

The most intriguing aspect of this move is that Tatum was often praised for his defensive proficiency in college. He may not lock opponents down, but he can positively contribute to the scheme and check his ego at the door.

Phil Jackson may never rectify the Anthony debacle, but he can find a player with All-Star potential and a similar skill set in Tatum. That may be the next best thing.

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