New York Knicks: Can Allonzo Trier make an All-Rookie team?

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WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 01: Allonzo Trier #14 of the New York Knicks dribbles past Austin Rivers #1 of the Washington Wizards during the second half of a preseason NBA game at Capital One Arena on October 01, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

3. Few guards in the conversation, for now

The 2018 NBA Draft was loaded with big men in the top 10. Deandre Ayton, Marvin Bagley, Jaren Jackson and Wendell Carter Jr. all went before the lottery ended, and Kevin Knox of the New York Knicks even went No. 9. He’s not considered a guard and, for now, there might not be a crowded group of ones or twos to choose from for an All-Rookie team.

Trae Young likely has an inside track at an All-Rookie spot, given his role with the Atlanta Hawks in 2018-19. Few scoring options exist, which creates an opportunity to shine on the stat sheet.

Collin Sexton sits in a slightly more crowded situation with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but he should find a consistent role in the backcourt as the season progresses.

There’s also Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Los Angeles Clippers, but until Patrick Beverley moves to the bench or leaves via trade, it might be difficult to reach his statistical potential early.

It’s not only a process of elimination for Trier, though, who can still sneak onto one of the two All-Rookie teams if Young, Sexton and Gilgeous-Alexander take the guard spots. Others may sneak into the mix, too, since it’s still so early, but the 2018 draft was dominated by frontcourt players at the top and will potentially leave a limited group of standout rookie guards when the season ends.

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