2017 NBA Mock Draft: New York Knicks and all 60 picks
player. 149. . Small Forward. Syracuse Orange. Tyler Lydon. 21
Ultimate Upside Comparison: Tom Gugliotta
Safe Upside Comparison: Danilo Gallinari
Position: Forward
Age: 21 (4/9/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9.5″, 215 pounds, 7’0″
2016-17 Slash Line: .473/.395/.836
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.1 MPG, 13.2 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 2.3 ORPG, 2.1 APG, 1.4 BPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.4 3PM
The Oklahoma City Thunder need a playmaker who can alleviate pressure from Russell Westbrook and a small forward who can shoot. The latter description may be relatively simple, but Oklahoma City’s current small forwards are defenders who can’t be paid to make an open shot.
Although analysts remain divided about his true NBA potential, the best option for the Thunder at No. 21 would be Syracuse Orange small forward Tyler Lydon.
Lydon stands at just under 6’10” with a 215-pound frame, a 7’0″ wingspan, a near 9’0″ standing reach, and impressive leaping ability. He has all of the tools to play power forward in the modern era, but he’s fluid enough to hold his own at the 3.
Either outcome would give Billy Donovan flexibility, as he could space the floor in either scenario, and play Lydon at the 4 when Andre Roberson is on the court at small forward.
Offensively, Lydon’s ability to convert the 3-ball would give Russell Westbrook more room to drive, and his respectable handles would enable him to attack closeouts. Defensively, he’s a solid shot blocker who rebounds relatively well and can hold his own against multiple positions.
Lydon is also a skilled passer for a player his size, which makes him the perfect addition to the Thunder—and an option if the New York Knicks acquire a second first-round draft pick.