New York Knicks: Top 16 2018 NBA Draft prospects in the Sweet 16

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BOISE, ID – MARCH 17: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #22 of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts during the second half against the Buffalo Bulls in the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 17, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Projection: Late Lottery
Age: 19 (7/12/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 180 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .493/.418/.810
Season Averages: 33.6 MPG, 14.4 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.1 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 0.6 3PM

No player has done themselves more favors during tournament season than Kentucky Wildcats point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander will need to add considerable mass to his frame before he’s ready for the NBA, but he’s already a dynamic talent.

If the New York Knicks decide that Frank Ntilikina would be better operating alongside another shot creator, then Gilgeous-Alexander should be a top option.

Gilgeous-Alexander led Kentucky to the SEC Tournament title by averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in three dominant showings. He facilitated the offense with his court vision and anchored the system with his scoring.

Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t slowed down during the NCAA Tournament, tallying 46 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, and seven steals in just two games.

Beyond the tournament play, Gilgeous-Alexander is a 6’6″ point guard with plus athleticism and a massive wingspan. He’s also an effective shooter who can work without the ball and pick his spots within the flow of the offense.

Throw in his ability to take every defender in front of him to the basket and Gilgeous-Alexander has the tools to form a sensational backcourt with Ntilikina.

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