New York Knicks: 2018 NBA Draft targets who stepped up on Mar. 16

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NASHVILLE, TN – MARCH 16: Trevon Bluiett #5 of the Xavier Musketeers throws a pass against the Texas Southern Tigers during the game in the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 16, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

The Xavier Musketeers earned a No. 1 seed in the 2018 NCAA Tournament as one of the more balanced teams in the country. When it comes time for a player to take over as a scorer, however, it’s consistently Trevon Bluiett who succeeds in doing so.

During the Round of 64, Bluiett lived up to the billing as the best player on one of the best teams in the country with a stellar performance.

Bluiett was one of three Xavier players who scored at least 20 points during a 102-83 victory over the Texas Southern Tigers. He finished with 26 points, five rebounds, two offensive boards, three assists, and a block in 37 high-octane minutes.

Bluiett shot 7-of-17 from the field, 3-of-10 from beyond the arc, and 9-of-13 from the free throw line, but there was far more to his performance than his efficiency.

Bluiett has a quick release and deep range on his jump shot—a combination that the New York Knicks should look into. He’s also underrated in his ability to create in isolation, which could appeal to an organization that will eventually need to replace Courtney Lee.

Bluiett’s defensive consistency could be questioned, but the Knicks should give serious consideration to selecting him in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft.

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