New York Knicks: Top 5 hybrid forwards in 2018 NBA Draft

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LEXINGTON, KY – FEBRUARY 24: Jarred Vanderbilt #2 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates against the Missouri Tigers at Rupp Arena on February 24, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Projection: Round 2
Age: 19 (4/3/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9″, 214 pounds, 7’1″
Slash Line: .426/.000/.632
Season Averages: 5.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 3.3 ORPG, 1.0 APG, 0.8 BPG

If the New York Knicks have a chance to select Jarred Vanderbilt in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft, they should. If the Knicks have a chance to trade up into the later range of the first round and select Vanderbilt, they should.

A five-star recruit whose freshman season was marred by injuries, Vanderbilt has the physical tools and skill set to become a star in the NBA.

Vanderbilt could be ranked No. 1, but I admit there’s some measure of trepidation because of his injury-plagued freshman season. At the very least, however, he has the tools to be a legitimately elite rebounder—thus, the Dennis Rodman comparisons.

Defensively, Vanderbilt has a massive wingspan and fluid athleticism that enable him to hold his own against all five positions, as well as switch against the pick and roll.

Offensively, Vanderbilt is a captivating playmaker who has a high vantage point as a passer and above-average court vision. His jump shot must improve, but he can drive and finish, push the pace as a facilitator, and even post up on occasion.

Vanderbilt reminds me of Lamar Odom, who would’ve feasted in this era. For a positionless Knicks team, he’d be a perfect addition.

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