New York Knicks: International prospects to consider in 2017 NBA Draft

Anzejs Pasecniks, Gran Canaria

Projection: Late Lottery, Mid-First
Position: Center
Age: 21 (12/20/1995)
Height & Weight: 7’2″ & 229 pounds
2016-17 Slash Line: .652/.444/.564
2016-17 Per 36 Averages: 16.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.7 offensive rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 0.4 3-point field goals made

It would be hard to blame a fan of the New York Knicks for being upset with the potential selection of a big man in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft. If Phil Jackson is of the belief that Willy Hernangomez isn’t the answer, however, Anzejs Pasecniks could be.

Pasecniks and Kristaps Porzingis are not only teammates on the Latvian national team, but comparable prospects in size and skill set.

Pasecniks is a 7’2″ center with alluring athleticism, fluid shooting mechanics, and the range to be a matchup nightmare. He has a wide frame that should fill out over time and enable him to overwhelm opponents in the post with both power and finesse.

For the time being, Pasecniks rolls hard to the basket and is comfortable enough leaving his feet to be a lob target for his point guard.

Pasecniks isn’t quite as heralded as Porzingis, but his off-ball movement rivals the best big men in this draft class. The Knicks may not run much pick and roll, but introducing the 7’2″ phenom to the system could change that.

This is an unlikely projection, but the best way to describe Pasecniks’ potential and current influence is that he has a presence about him.

By selecting Pasecniks, the Knicks could potentially create a modern version of the Twin Towers of San Antonio.

Must Read: A realistically ambitious 2017 NBA Mock Draft

The New York Knicks may not select any of these five prospects, but all should be firmly on the radar entering the 2017 NBA Draft.