New York Knicks: Five options at power forward in 2020 NBA Draft

Knicks target and New York native Obi Toppin #1 of the Dayton Flyers reacts after a dunk in the second half of a game against the George Washington Colonials at UD Arena on March 7, 2020 in Dayton, Ohio. Dayton defeated George Washington 76-51. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
Knicks target and New York native Obi Toppin #1 of the Dayton Flyers reacts after a dunk in the second half of a game against the George Washington Colonials at UD Arena on March 7, 2020 in Dayton, Ohio. Dayton defeated George Washington 76-51. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks
New York Knicks option Precious Achiuwa #55 of the Memphis Tigers dunks the ball against the New Orleans Privateers during a game on December 28, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis defeated New Orleans 97-55. (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images) /

Precious Achiuwa, Memphis Tigers

Checking in at 6’9″ with a 7’2″ wingspan and a 9’1.5″ standing reach, Precious Achiuwa is tough to overlook. He has the physical profile of an elite shot-blocker, as well as the athletic ability to switch and defend both forward positions.

With flashes of effectiveness as a shooter, Achiuwa could be the power forward who puts the finishing touches on the Knicks’ talent-discovery process.

Achiuwa converted 32.4 percent of his three-point field goals and just 59.9 percent of his free throws as a freshman. In saying that, his mechanics are close enough to ideal for a competent shooting coach to be able to help Achiuwa put the finishing touches on his shot.

If that occurs, the Knicks would be getting a true stretch 4 who can also attack and play above the rim—an ideal combination in any era, let alone the one we’re in.

Defensively, Achiuwa is one of the better shot-blockers when one goes beyond the basic numbers. He averaged 1.9 blocks per game and 2.5 per 40 minutes, and he did so while doing a respectable job of limiting fouls considering his aggressive style of play.

Achiuwa will need time to develop his skill set, but the upside is clear—especially with Mitchell Robinson being the player he’d be working alongside.