New York Knicks: A way too early 2018 NBA Mock Draft

The common theme in the draft lottery is that the top prospects on the board are big men. Some exceptions exist, but the New York Knicks may find themselves in the Top 10 of an NBA Draft that compels them to draft another big man.

If the belief exists that a better player than Willy Hernangomez can be found here, then that pick may be justified—and Jaren Jackson will have a case to make.

The best comparison for Jackson is Indiana Pacers rising star Myles Turner. Like Turner, Jackson is still figuring his game out, and thus, may not be the most dominant player in the country—even though he has every tool to be that player.

What Jackson also shares with Turner, however, is the unique ability to dominate the game on both ends of the floor when he’s focused on doing so.

Offensively Jackson has range on his jump shot and the body to post players up with regularity. Defensively, his 6’10” height, 7’4″ wingspan, and fluid athleticism should enable him to block shots, dominate the boards, and shut down both interior positions.

Hernangomez should be penciled in as the future at the center position, but Jackson and Kristaps Porzingis could be a dominant duo.