The New York Knicks are reportedly interested in Miami Hurricanes shooting guard Lonnie Walker IV. New York will host Walker for a pre-draft workout.
The New York Knicks are reportedly interested in Miami Hurricanes shooting guard Lonnie Walker IV. That report was corroborated when the Knicks interviewed Walker at the 2018 NBA Draft Combine and scouted him at the Catalyst Pro Day.
Having made rather consistent contact with Walker throughout the pre-draft process, it should come as no surprise that further steps are being taken.
Knicks general manager Scott Perry has made it clear that the franchise is open to selecting a guard, but only if they’re blown away by said prospect. Walker has the tools to captivate the front office, which makes the latest revelation one of significance.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, the Knicks will host an individual workout for Walker this week.
The Knicks have an individual workout scheduled with Miami's Lonnie Walker IV this week, per ESPN sources. Opposing executives believe that Walker, 19, is one of several players in consideration to be selected at No. 9 by the Knicks: https://t.co/DaEbp3WzUI
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 11, 2018
Per Begley’s report, opposing executives believe that Walker is receiving serious consideration to be selected at No. 9 overall.
"Opposing executives believe that Walker is one of several players in consideration to be selected at No. 9 by the Knicks."
This supports the previous reports that the Knicks have genuine interest in the former Hurricanes shooting guard.
Walker stands at just under 6’5″ with a muscular 196-pound frame and a more than adequate 6’10.25″ wingspan. He’s the prototype for a shooting guard, checking the boxes in size, build, length, and athleticism for an incoming rookie.
Walker displayed the latter trait at the Combine, ranking in the top five in the shuttle run and three quarter sprint, as well as a top-10 mark in lane agility time.
Walker also boasts a 40″ vertical, which rounds his explosive athleticism into form and offers New York a significant reason for interest.
On the court, Walker is a well-rounded offensive player and an improving defender with All-Defense potential. He has a paralyzing first step, a respectable jump shot, and the ability to finish with both power and finesse in the paint.
Walker also displayed his adaptability when he became a facilitator for Miami in 2017-18, which could make a pairing with Frank Ntilikina ideal for the Knicks.
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The question is: Will Lonnie Walker IV still be available at No. 9 overall in the 2018 NBA Draft?