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

The Kansas Jayhawks have produced a surplus of quality guards, including 2017 NBA Draft pick Frank Mason III. The next in line appears to be Devonte’ Graham, who may have an even higher ceiling than the reigning National Player of the Year.

The New York Knicks may have drafted Frank Ntilikina in 2017, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Graham will be overlooked in 2018.

Graham is a 6’2″ point guard with explosive leaping ability and the general athleticism to easily get by at the position. That should enable him to become an effective defender in the sense that he can stay in front of slashers and contest jump shots.

Graham may or may not develop into a Patrick Beverley type of defender, but he has the physical gifts and the coaching to potentially earn that distinction.

Offensively, Graham is an elite three-point shooter who has converted 169 three-point field goals on 41.0 percent shooting since 2015-16. He’s also a capable facilitator who can create penetration, find the open man, and create offense on a consistent basis.

Most importantly: Graham is a big-game player. The Knicks would be wise to at least keep an eye on his development in 2017-18.