New York Knicks: 5 compelling prospects to consider at 2020 NBA Draft

Deni Avdija, Maccabi Tel Aviv

The top international prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft is Maccabi Tel Aviv forward Deni Avdija. Avdija stands at 6’9″ with a rather slender frame and a dynamic skill set that not only lends itself to the modern era, but would fit well with the New York Knicks.

Mitchell Robinson projects to be a Defensive Player of the Year candidate for years to come, which allows for an offensive-minded 4 to come in and thrive with the right skill set.

What makes Avidja such a compelling prospect is that he has the ball-handling and court vision of a lead guard. That may be a slight stretch in praise, but at the 4 spot, it’s a testament to how unique his ability to set the table for others truly is.

It’s also worth noting that one of the primary focuses of his most recent European season was learning how to function without the ball in his hands—including improving his jump shot.

Defensively, Avidja is a similarly promising prospect. He plays with intensity and aggressiveness, fights over screens, and does his part to disrupt the passing lanes. There are certainly concerns with how that will translate to the NBA, but the tape is encouraging.

As is the athleticism that one typically doesn’t see on a European player’s scouting report.

Throw in the fact that Avidja is the unique pick and roll package who can both roll or facilitate, he and Robinson could create a unique 4-5 combo to build an interior around.