New York Knicks: 2018 NBA Draft targets who stepped up on Mar. 18

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CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 18: Robert Williams #44 of the Texas A&M Aggies reacts against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Spectrum Center on March 18, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

If there were any questions about how significant an impact Robert Williams III can have on defense, they’ve been answered now. Williams dominated the defensive end of the floor during the Round of 32, preventing the defending NCAA champions from generating much of anything.

If the New York Knicks are looking for a power forward or center who can alleviate pressure from Kristaps Porzingis on defense, then Williams should be a top target.

Williams only played 20 minutes against the North Carolina Tar Heels, but his impact was felt. He posted eight points, 13 rebounds, and two blocks during that time, shooting 3-of-3 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free throw line.

More importantly: When Williams was on the court, the Tar Heels struggled to generate interior offense and essentially couldn’t run their system.

Williams helped take Luke Maye out of the game and cut off driving lanes with the mere threat of being able to block an attempted shot. He also dominated the boards, thus limiting the second chances that North Carolina was relying on while shooting 33.3 percent from the field.

Other players stepped up for the Aggies, but Williams displayed why he could be a lottery pick come the 2018 NBA Draft with a dominant defensive performance.

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A vast number of perceived contenders have fallen, but the New York Knicks still have options worth considering in the 2018 NBA Draft.

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