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New York Knicks: Realistically ambitious 2017 NBA Mock Draft

By Maxwell Ogden

Feb 15, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots a free throw against the Virginia Cavaliers at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots a free throw against the Virginia Cavaliers at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Xavier Musketeers guard Edmond Sumner (4) dribbles as Georgetown Hoyas guard Jonathan Mulmore (2) defends during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Xavier Musketeers guard Edmond Sumner (4) dribbles as Georgetown Hoyas guard Jonathan Mulmore (2) defends during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

Edmond Sumner. 44. player. 27. . Point Guard. Xavier Musketeers

Upside Comparison: Andre Iguodala/Shaun Livingston
Position: Point Guard
Age: 21 (12/31/1995)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’5.75″, 176 pounds, 6’9″
2016-17 Slash Line: .479/.273/.735
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.1 MPG, 15.0 PPG, 5.0 APG, 4.3 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 3PM

The New York Knicks hit the jackpot with Jayson Tatum at No. 8, but the need remains for improved play in the backcourt. Superior offensive execution will be a point of emphasis, but it will be just as important for New York to improve on defense.

After drafting sharpshooting hybrid guard Derrick White at No. 20, the Knicks strike again at No. 44 with 6’6″ point guard Edmond Sumner.

White is capable of defending both guard positions, but the same can be said about Sumner. If both realize their defensive potential, the Knicks could have a starting backcourt with defensively interchangeable players.

That’s an advantage that cannot be overstated, as it would enable the Knicks to not only have two playmakers, but two players who can defend multiple positions.

Offensively, Sumner is one of the most dynamic slashers in this loaded draft class. He excels in drive-and-dish scenarios, and when he plays with a score-first mentality, he can both finish above the rim and use the glass for efficient scoring opportunities.

Sumner is recovering from a torn ACL, but he’s a generational athlete with long strides, effortless leaping ability, and a fearless approach to scoring.

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