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

8 of 17

BOISE, ID – MARCH 17: PJ Washington #25 of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts after a dunk during the first 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: Second Round
Age: 19 (8/23/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’8″, 236 pounds, 7’3″
Slash Line: .514/.238/.628
Season Averages: 27.0 MPG, 10.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 BPG, 0.7 SPG

Early in the season, the player whom I compared Kentucky Wildcats power forward PJ Washington to was New York Knicks veteran Lance Thomas. As time has passed, however, Washington has reminded me more of a different Brooklyn native: Taj Gibson.

Washington will need to improve his rim protection to truly justify that comparison, but he’s an athletic big who seems to have the intangibles of a quality NBA player.

Washington has a powerful frame and a massive wingspan, which should be enough to get him drafted. He’s also an explosive athlete and an aggressive pick and roll finisher who has no problem finishing through—or over—contact.

Kristaps Porzingis provides elite pick and pop value, but Washington could be the dive man who helps Frank Ntilikina realize his playmaking potential.

Defensively, Washington has the combination of length and athleticism that can give opposing teams fits. Whether he’s breaking up the pick and roll, protecting the rim, defending the post, or matching up with stretch bigs, Washington has the tools to do it all.

It’s also worth noting that the freshman has attempted 21 three-point field goals in 2017-18, thus displaying his early understanding of how important range as a shooter will be.

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