New York Knicks: 15 greatest draft picks in franchise history

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 25: Kristaps Porzingis meets with Commissioner Adam Silver after being selected fourth overall by the New York Knicks in the First Round of the 2015 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 25, 2015 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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One could argue that Cazzie Russell didn’t play as well as he was expected to as a former No. 1 overall selection in the NBA Draft. 1966’s top pick helped the New York Knicks achieve the ultimate glory, however, before going on to produce bigger numbers elsewhere.

Selected one spot before Hall of Fame guard Dave Bing, Russell overcame the criticism to help the Knicks win the first championship in franchise history.

Russell, a college basketball legend, scored 4,584 during his five seasons with the Knicks. He averaged 18.3 points per game in 1968-69, which was good for second on the team behind only future league MVP Willis Reed.

It was in 1969-70, however, that Russell helped the Knicks win the first championship in organization history—albeit with a lightened role.

One could argue whether or not this truly was one of the top 15 selections in franchise history, as the Knicks’ best team success was experienced when Russell received less playing time. He was a building block, however, for a franchise that ultimately realized its vision.

Russell made the transition from college basketball legend to NBA champion, which is all that one needs to know at the end of the day.