New York Knicks: Checking in on Top 5 2018 NBA Draft prospects

4. Michael Porter Jr., Missouri Tigers

Position: Forward
Age: 19 (6/29/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 216 pounds, 7’0″
2017-18 Slash Line: 1.000/.000/.000
2017-18 Season Averages: 2.0 MPG, 2.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG

One could argue that Michael Porter Jr. is the most significant signing in Missouri Tigers program history. He’s a dynamic athlete with elite size for the small forward position, as well as the skill set to score and defend at an All-NBA level.

Some are more intrigued by Porter than others, but the common theory is that Missouri’s star recruit will at least be a high-quality player at the next level—a player who would fit a need.

The New York Knicks have a void to fill at small forward, and Porter is the type of player whom fans would embrace. Not only can he shoot over the average defender with relative ease, but he has defensive potential that can be fairly compared to that of Oklahoma City Thunder star Paul George.

If Porter were to become a legitimate two-way player in New York, the Knicks would round out its core with defensive-minded players at the three most important positions: Point guard, small forward, and the defensive interior.

Unfortunately, Porter has been sidelined early in 2017-18 with a mysterious hip injury. If the word mysterious seems like an exaggeration, just know that it isn’t at all hyperbolic.

Just read Missouri head coach Cuonzo Martin’s comments on Porter’s injury (h/t Kevin Spain of KSDK.com).

"“I understand you want that information. The truth of the matter is I’m not a doctor. I can’t give you more than that. I don’t want give you more than that. It’s not my job to give that out of respect for Mike and his family. So I think the best thing is (saying) day to day. If I had more I’d give you more.”"

Confusing, but if he can remain healthy, the group of Frank Ntilikina, Porter, and Kristaps Porzingis would be as promising a trio of two-way players as any in the NBA—bar none.