New York Knicks: Five point guard alternatives if Kyrie Irving does not sign

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 03: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second half of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2019 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 03, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bucks defeat the Celtics 123 - 116. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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Murray State Ja Morant (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /

2. Ja Morant

The highest draft option, Ja Morant is a candidate to land with the New York Knicks at No. 3 overall. The events of June 20 have to trend a certain way for this to happen, but it is feasible for this organization to select its second point guard in three years.

This is only realistic if the Memphis Grizzlies pass on Morant at second overall. They have a veteran point guard, Mike Conley, who was on the trade block at February’s deadline. This is the chance for an heir apparent, and it’s just a matter of making it happen.

However, the Grizzlies were rumored to not have Morant locked at No. 2. If so, that opens a draft shake-up from the expected Zion Williamson at No. 1, Morant afterward and RJ Barrett third to the Knicks.

Selecting another young point guard might offer caution for Knicks fans, and reasonably so after Ntilikina’s stint and the others to come before him at this position. Morant is different from the rest, though, with court-jumping athleticism, a good defensive profile and the ability to make his teammates better, after 10 assists per game at Murray State.

It is just the matter of New York having that decision to make at No. 3. The Grizzlies might make it for them, so this will be the first domino to fall and offer its impact to a likely chaotic NBA Draft.

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