2018 NBA Mock Draft: Impact of the first round of the 2018 NBA Playoffs

Age: 21 (8/30/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 210 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .512/.435/.848
Season Averages: 32.0 MPG, 17.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 2.6 3PM

The New York Knicks have a difficult decision to make at No. 9 overall in the 2018 NBA Draft. The Knicks can either fortify the interior by selecting Duke Blue Devils center Wendell Carter Jr. or finally legitimize the perimeter with Villanova Wildcats small forward Mikal Bridges.

For as compelling as Carter is as the center who could alleviate pressure from Kristaps Porzingis, the Knicks simply can’t continue to struggle along the defensive perimeter.

Regardless of how one may feel about his offensive game, most agree that Bridges is the best on-ball defender in the 2018 NBA Draft. He has elite physical tools for a wing at 6’7″ with a 7’2″ wingspan and high-level athleticism, but that’s only a fraction of what makes him so impressive.

Bridges has a fundamental understanding of how to defend, which enables him to lock down wings and switch on to players at all five positions.

Offensively, if nothing else translates to the NBA, Bridges should continue to be an elite three-point shooter. He has a high release point and seemingly limitless range, which should appeal to a Knicks team that finished 2017-18 ranked No. 29 in the Association in three-point field goals made.

Throw in the fact that Bridges has a relentless work ethic, a vastly improved handle, and the ability to finish with both hands, and he’s a player with true star potential.