New York Knicks: 2019 NBA Draft prospects to watch in ACC Tournament

4. De’Andre Hunter, Virginia Tech

Age: 21
Height, Weight: 6-foot-8, 222 pounds
Slash Line: .533/.473/.787
Season Averages: 15.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 1.2 3PM

De’Andre Hunter was kept in the wings on the 2017-18 Virginia team, as he played just 19.9 minutes per game and did not start. Head coach Tony Bennett adjusted that in 2018-19, to highlight his stud sophomore’s talents and make him this team’s focus at both ends of the floor.

Maybe one of college basketball’s most improved player statistically, Hunter is as smooth and efficient as any in the ACC offensively, with a 53.3 percent mark from the field and 47.3 on three-pointers, albeit on just 2.5 attempts per game.

He also brings distributing ability as an occasional point forward, with 2.2 assists per game. That plays off Ty Jerome’s game at point guard and offers the Cavaliers alternatives to move the ball. It’s not perfect, but an intriguing add-on to his game.

Defense is Hunter’s bread and butter. That will garner him a long-term NBA career, after moving into the top 10 of the 2019 NBA Draft. He makes an impact at both ends, and as teams look for players to control fellow 6-foot-8 wings, this could be the ideal option.

Hunter could continue rising up the draft boards, but if the New York Knicks are in the top five, he’ll be out of their range.