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

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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) /

Projection: Top 5
Age: 19 (3/14/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 234 pounds, 7’1.5″
Slash Line: .613/.386/.622
Season Averages: 33.4 MPG, 21.2 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 3.9 ORPG, 1.5 APG, 0.9 BPG, 0.9 SPG, 0.7 3PM

The Duke Blue Devils have a number of compelling prospects, but no one is quite as intriguing as Marvin Bagley III. A nightly double-double threat and a well-rounded defensive player, Bagley has legitimately dominated the 2018 NCAA Tournament.

If the New York Knicks strike gold come the lottery, one can comfortably believe that Bagley will be one of the top prospects on Scott Perry’s board—no matter who else is available.

Bagley plays a style that’s comparable to current Knicks power forward Michael Beasley. He’s a 6’11” big with a near 7’2″ wingspan, but he has fluid athleticism, a tight handle, and the uncanny ability to finish in traffic off of a drive from 24 feet.

The primary difference between Bagley and Beasley is that the former has already begun to embrace the three-point shot—that and he has an unquestioned passion for the sport.

Bagley has been magnificent during the 2018 NCAA Tournament, averaging 22.0 points and 8.0 rebounds on 75.0 percent shooting from the field. He’s picking his spots as a scorer, focusing on defense, and even shooting well from distance.

There are other prospects to watch, but if the Knicks are hoping to select a franchise-level player in the 2018 NBA Draft, Bagley is a safe bet.

Must Read: 2018 NBA Draft targets who stepped up on Mar. 18

The question is: Which of these prospects will continue dancing after the Sweet 16?

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