New York Knicks only 2018 NBA Mock Draft: Final Four Edition

Alternative Options: Interior Players

While the perimeter options are compelling, the New York Knicks have a glaring need down low. There’s an abundance of depth at center, but Enes Kanter and Kyle O’Quinn are both headed to free agency, and the level of athleticism at the 4 and 5 spots is insufficient.

Thankfully, these players would either add athleticism or a necessary skill to the Knicks’ otherwise excellent interior.

Yes, the younger brother of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and former Westchester Knicks standout Thanasis Antetokounmpo. Kostas Antetokounmpo isn’t at all polished, but he’s the same type of prospect: High risk, high reward.

Antetokounmpo is a 6’10” hybrid forward with a 7’2″ wingspan, plus athleticism, gigantic hands, and a long stride. If the Knicks plan to invest in a project, this would be the one worth committing to.

Brandon McCoy has the physical tools to be a legitimate star in the NBA at 6’11” with a near 7’2″ wingspan and a wide frame. He was a dominant rebounder when he put his mind to it in college, and even showed signs of progress as a shot-blocker.

If the Knicks believe that they can help McCoy thrive at center and utilize Kristaps Porzingis at power forward on a full-time basis, then McCoy should be the pick.

I’m not quite as high on Chimezie Metu as others in the New York Knicks community, but I can certainly see the appeal. He doesn’t have an individual skill to sink one’s teeth into, but he’s an athletic big who can do a bit of everything.

That includes improving range as a shooter and value as a shot-blocker. For the Knicks, Metu can be a player who helps Porzingis find a more defined role on defense.

Michael Porter was the star recruit for the Missouri Tigers, but Jontay Porter proved to be more than just his younger brother. A 6’10” big with a 7’0″ wingspan and a solid outside shot, Porter converted 1.2 three-point field goals on 36.4 percent shooting from the center position.

What makes Porter even more intriguing: High-level passing ability and top-100 rankings in defensive rebound percentage and block percentage.

Moritz Wagner has been the most reliable player on a Michigan Wolverines team that just reached the Final Four. He plays his heart out in an Enes Kanter manner, is a high-quality defensive rebounder, and can shoot the three-ball with volume and efficiency.

If the Knicks were to add Wagner, they’d be getting a 6’11” big who has shot at least 39.5 percent from distance in each of the past two seasons.

Must Read: 2018 NBA Draft to watch in the Final Four

If the New York Knicks properly scout these players, they should have a great idea of how to ace the 2018 NBA Draft.