New York Knicks: 2018 NBA Mock Draft including trades

Age: 20 (11/29/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 240 pounds, 7’5″
Slash Line: .622/.000/.764
Season Averages: 17.0 MPG, 7.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.9 ORPG, 1.3 BPG

The New York Knicks may have a surplus of centers on the roster, but they also have a glaring void at the position. For as respectable as the talent level may be, the Knicks lack an ideal measure of athleticism at center.

Thus, while having elite rebounders undeniably helps Kristaps Porzingis, lacking athleticism often means being exploited defensively.

Richards is a 6’11” center with high-level athleticism and a massive 7’5″ wingspan. Thus, while he may be raw in some aspects of the game, his mere presence on the court would alleviate pressure from Porzingis on the defensive end.

Richards is on pace to average 3.0 blocks per 40 minutes, and as a freshman whose minutes are staggered, still manages to rank No. 59 in the country in blocks percentage.

Even if Richards doesn’t become an elite shot-blocker in the NBA, his length and athleticism should enable him to defend the pick and roll at a high level. Furthermore, he’s a solid rebounder who excels on the offensive glass and has shown flashes of brilliance on the defensive boards.

A pick and roll threat with value in transition, Richards is the type of long and athletic big whom the Knicks have been needing alongside Porzingis.