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2017 NBA Mock Draft: New York Knicks and all 60 picks

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 25, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) and guard De'Aaron Fox (0) celebrate during the game against the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Tennessee-Martin 111-76. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 25, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) and guard De'Aaron Fox (0) celebrate during the game against the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Tennessee-Martin 111-76. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

Ultimate Upside Comparison: Jae Crowder
Safe Upside Comparison: P.J. Tucker
Position: Small Forward
Age: 22 (12/5/1994)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6.75″, 241 pounds, 6’9.75″
2016-17 Slash Line: .487/.424/.785
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.1 MPG, 19.0 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 2.1 3PM

The Portland Trail Blazers are a rumored trade partner for the New York Knicks. If Portland holds on to its three picks, however, the primary theme should continue to ring true at No. 26: Terry Stotts needs help on defense.

It’s genuinely possible that he won’t be available at No. 26, but Semi Ojeleye has the skill set to be a perfect fit with the Trail Blazers.

Ojeleye compares favorably to Jae Crowder in that he’s a hybrid forward who can defend both 3s and 4s. He’ll need to improve his footwork and overall fundamentals at the next level, but Ojeleye has clear upside to be found in his athletic ability and strength.

On the offensive end of the floor, Ojeleye fits the identity of what Portland has been building as a lights-out shooter from beyond the arc.

Ojeleye drained 73 3-point field goals on 42.4 percent shooting during his memorable 2016-17 season at SMU. He showed no fear when getting his shot off, and played a surprisingly efficient game from the mid-post area.

Portland will likely pursue the possibility of a trade, but Ojeleye would be an excellent addition to a team that knows how to coach tweeners.

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