New York Knicks: 2019 NBA Mock Draft, Sweet 16 edition
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UCLA. Kris Wilkes. 28. player. 41. . F
Age: 20
Height, Weight: 6-foot-8, 215 pounds
Slash Line: .432/.337/.671
Season Averages: 17.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 2.1 3PM
The Golden State Warriors still sit atop the Western Conference and may have the space to add luxury players to their roster in the offseason — if Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson stay. DeMarcus Cousins will also hit free agency.
Losing Durant should still keep this team near the top of the West, but they will not have that long, space-eating player to consume the middle of the lineup. Andre Iguodala is still there, but is in his mid-30s. So it’s time to look towards the future, and while nothing close to the solution, Kris Wilkes can provide depth.
Wilkes showed the ability to stretch the floor at UCLA, with over two three-pointers made per game. It’s on just 33.7 percent, which could translate to a lower mark in the NBA.
Wilkes also has the size and athleticism to profile as a plus defender, which can appeal to the Warriors in a reserve role. He just needs to find a more consistent jumpshot, and this could become an interesting player to help continue this dynasty.
If Wilkes were to fall to the second round, he’s a low-risk, moderate-reward player for the New York Knicks to gamble on.