New York Knicks: Top 5 2018 NBA Draft options entering All-Star Break

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – FEBRUARY 04: Mikal Bridges #25 receives a pass from teammate Jalen Brunson #1 of the Villanova Wildcats during the first half against the Seton Hall Pirates at the Wells Fargo Center on February 4, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Villanova defeated Seton Hall 92-76. (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images) /

Upside Comparison: Klay Thompson
Age: 21 (8/30/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 210 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .490/.403/.837
Season Averages: 32.3 MPG, 16.5 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 2.2 3PM

Comparing a player to Klay Thompson is difficult to justify, but Mikal Bridges has that very potential. He’s the reigning co-Big East Defensive Player of the Year, and has developed into a knockdown three-point shooter.

With the size, length, and athleticism to defend multiple positions, Bridges could be the prospect who completes the formation of a defensive juggernaut.

With Frank Ntilikina at point guard, Bridges at the 2 or the 3, and Kristaps Porzingis protecting the rim, the Knicks would have three levels covered on defense. It could stop the ball at the top of the key, lock down the wings, and protect the rim with an unparalleled manner of efficiency.

There would still be voids to address, but it’s significantly easier to build a contender once a defensive-minded culture has been established.

Offensively, Bridges is an excellent shooter who has added new elements to his game in every season he’s played. He’s becoming a quality post player, is a capable and willing passer, and has even improved his ability to take his man off the dribble.

Bridges may never be a superstar on offense, but as a potential lockdown defender with a lights-out jump shot and a post game, the Thompson comparison may not be too lofty.

If not Thompson, then Bridges could develop along a similar trajectory as Otto Porter Jr.

Must Read: Burning questions to answer without Kristaps Porzingis

The question is: Will these players still be on the board when the New York Knicks come up at the 2018 NBA Draft?

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