New York Knicks: Five options at point guard in 2020 NBA Draft

LaMelo Ball, Illawarra Hawks

Perhaps the top overall prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft, LaMelo Ball is one of the more compelling prospects to come along in recent memory. I still have my doubt as to whether or not he’s a true point guard rather than a facilitating wing, but the talent is undeniable.

Standing at 6’7″ with a tight handle, remarkable court vision, and the physical tools to be a strong defender, Ball could be a franchise-altering selection for the New York Knicks.

Ball relies far too heavily on a faulty jump shot, but that’s where coaching comes into play. In terms of what he’d offer to the Knicks, he and RJ Barrett would form a massive backcourt that would feature two players who are comfortable finding the hot hand.

That would make life easier for everyone on the Knicks while simultaneously creating a pick and roll combination with Mitchell Robinson that could be a core asset.

There’s also a belief that Ball, who’s still just 18 years of age, may still be growing. Even if that doesn’t come to fruition, what’s clear is that any coach who inherits Ball will be acquiring clay that can be molded into any number of roles or archetypes.

I’m admittedly uncertain of Ball’s ability to play point guard full-time, but I do see some Joe Johnson tendencies in his approach and abilities—assuming he works on his jump shot.

Play him at point, play him on the wing—if you can, just play him.