New York Knicks: Early predictions for 2019 NBA Draft needs
Zion Williamson
Could this be the next generational talent? As the headline of the 2019 Duke Bluedevils and upcoming NBA Draft, Zion Williamson comes in as another unicorn to storm the NBA. Unlike the Knicks’ unicorn in Kristaps Porzingis, Williamson’s abilities don’t extend to the three-point line yet, but his Lebron-like size and athleticism make him the unanimous number one pick by most sites like NBAdraft.net and Sports Illustrated.
Listed as a 6-foot-7,285 pounds. forward by ESPN, Williamson is not only the perfect fit for the Knicks, but for almost every team in the NBA. It doesn’t matter how log jammed our guard or forward position is, the Duke forward would be a day-one starter and an attractive piece to serve the Knicks in free agency.
The Knicks chances for this generational talent is mostly based on luck now, regardless of being the worst team in the league. The new draft reform has them at a 10.5 percent chance if they stay as the fifth worst team in the league.
Their best case scenario would be to keep winning the occasional game with their neophytes, as a means of development and chemistry, and have the first pick fall into their hands. Building the foundation for Williamson is a must, and should not come from a tankathon movement.
Nassir Little
Another highly-touted player coming out of this draft is UNC forward Nassir Little. Though Little seems more like a project at this stage, his draft stock and position fits the needs perfectly as a two-way forward.
The Tar Heel forward has been struggling to find the majority of the minutes this season, but has still showcased his strength, explosiveness, and defensive awareness that make him a similar prospect to Justice Winslow when he first came into the league.
As the Knicks will likely unload Lance Thomas after this season and Courtney Lee at some point, Little will be a great fit for the Knicks whether as a starter or off the bench, helping with the Knicks’ deficiencies on the defensive side.
Rui Hachimura
As the league’s first likely lottery pick from Japan, Rui Hachimura has been a key factor for Gonzaga as the eighth best team in NCAA basketball this season. Hachimura even put up a stat line of 20 points, seven rebounds, and five assists against the number two ranked Duke in a 89-87 victory.
The Gonzaga junior has shown steady improvements throughout his NCAA career, and would be less of a project in comparison to most of the prospects I’ve mentioned.
His offensive game is encouraging, but his defense still needs some time to develop. Something coach David Fizdale can help if the Knicks decided to draft him.