New York Knicks: Top 10 2018 NBA Draft targets as of June 1

Age: 18 (6/24/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4″, 199 pounds, 6’9.75”
Slash Line: .556/.450/.717
Season Averages: 28.4 MPG, 11.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 BPG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 3PM

Zhaire Smith suffered a bit of a hit at the 2018 NBA Draft Combine, as his measurements essentially revealed that he’s more of a shooting guard than a small forward. That could prove problematic for a New York Knicks team that has depth at guard and weakness at the 3.

As the Knicks look for the perimeter star of the future, however, it’s a player like Smith who could fit the bill as a high-risk, high-reward type of selection.

Smith has the physical gifts to be one of the most exhilarating shooting guards in the NBA. Standing at 6’4” and 1999 pounds with a near 6’10” wingspan, he measures in an at least acceptable manner for a backcourt position.

Smith is also an explosive athlete who boasts a 41.5” max vertical leap and ran the three quarter sprint in 3.05 seconds—faster than both John Wall and Russell Westbrook.

On the court, Smith’s IQ and instincts fortify the foundation for his superstar potential. He’s both unrefined and responsible, which admittedly makes him difficult to read, but he’s flashed a solid outside shot, above-average court vision, and lockdown potential on defense.

I’m more optimistic about Smith than most, but he’s a prospect whom the Knicks should seriously consider if they’re willing to develop a shooting guard long-term.