New York Knicks: 2018 NBA Draft targets who stepped up on Mar. 17

11 of 12

DALLAS, TX – MARCH 17: Zhaire Smith #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders dunks the ball in the second half against the Florida Gators during the second round of the 2018 NCAA Tournament at the American Airlines Center on March 17, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

Zhaire Smith is a player whom we outlined ahead of the 2018 NCAA Tournament as a 2018 NBA Draft prospect to watch. Smith is a projected second-round draft pick, but he’s a raw talent who has legitimate superstar potential at the next level.

In the Round of 32, Smith offered a glimpse of just how good he could be if he ever puts it all together—a process the New York Knicks should commit to facilitating.

Smith recorded 18 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, and one steal in 37 minutes of action. He shot an efficient 8-of-13 from the field and 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, committing just one turnover and two personal fouls.

Smith scored 16 of his 18 points in the second half, which displays the high-stakes nature of his contributions and his fearlessness in the clutch.

Smith has the defensive potential of Oklahoma City Thunder standout Andre Roberson and the athleticism of Gerald Green. He needs significant polish on both ends of the floor, but his combination of explosiveness and natural ability is rare to find.

If the Knicks are looking for a dark horse wing to consider at the 2018 NBA Draft, then Smith could be the answer for the orange and blue.

Home/Knicks Draft