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

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PITTSBURGH, PA – MARCH 17: Marvin Bagley III #35 of the Duke Blue Devils dunks the ball against the Rhode Island Rams during the second half in the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at PPG PAINTS Arena on March 17, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

If we’ve learned anything about Marvin Bagley III during tournament season, it’s that he’s a second-half player. He can take over games early, as well, but Bagley appears to be at his best when his team needs him to step up.

Against the Rhode Island Rams, Bagley put away a commanding Duke Blue Devils victory that essentially validated his freshman season with a Sweet 16 appearance.

Bagley finished the 87-62 obliteration of Rhode Island with 22 points, nine rebounds, and one assist. He shot 8-of-10 from the field, 1-of-2 from beyond the three-point line, and 5-of-7 from the free throw line in yet another balanced scoring performance.

It was par for the course for Bagley, who has been scoring and rebounding at virtual will throughout his freshman season.

There are no shortage of gifted players in the 2018 NBA Draft, but Bagley has a stake to the claim of being the best scorer in his class. He can post up, penetrate and drive from 24 feet, and has greatly improved his three-point shot since the beginning of the season.

If the New York Knicks have a chance to select Bagley, general manager Scott Perry shouldn’t hesitate for a moment to bring him on board.

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