New York Knicks: Top five targets at No. 3 in 2019 NBA Draft
Age: 21
Height, Weight: 6-foot-8, 222 pounds
Slash Line: .520/.438/.783
Season Averages: 15.2 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 1.2 3PM
De’Andre Hunter is another player potentially available for the New York Knicks to take at No. 3. After leading Virginia to a National Championship Game win in April, it culminated his rising stock to the point of solidifying himself as not only a top-10 prospect, but with real ability to land in the top five.
Jarrett Culver brings the Knicks size in the backcourt, but Hunter offers this as a wing and stretch four. His 7-foot-2 wingspan can tower over opposing frontcourt players, making him a consistent threat defensively, on the boards and avoiding blocks on jump shots.
Plus, Hunter is not a negative scorer, either. While not proficient from behind the arc, he still hit 1.2 three-pointers per game on 43.8 percent shooting. The overall line was highlighted behind 52 percent.
If the Knicks can add this to a Mitchell Robinson and Kevin Durant frontline, size, length and athleticism is on their side to create mismatches in the Eastern Conference. Along with Kyrie Irving and whoever plays shooting guard, this is a fascinating scenario.
No. 3 could still be high for Hunter, but he may land fourth otherwise to the Los Angeles Lakers. Maybe fifth to Cleveland if they like him enough. So if the Knicks feel Hunter is the best player available here, they can’t afford trading down.