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Knicks Draft: Realistically re-drafting New York’s last 10 first round picks

By Yash Shrivastava

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks and RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks shake hands following the game at Madison Square Garden on November 14, 2019 in New York City. New York Knicks defeated the Dallas Mavericks 106-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks and RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks shake hands following the game at Madison Square Garden on November 14, 2019 in New York City. New York Knicks defeated the Dallas Mavericks 106-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Re-draft of the 2018 NBA Draft for the Knicks: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Knicks pick: 1st Round, Pick 9

Actual player selected: Kevin Knox

Drafting point guards in back-to-back years would have been a head-scratcher to many people around the league. Kevin Knox, Mikal Bridges, and Miles Bridges were all available when the Knicks were set to pick at nine, and New York needed a wing to replace the void left by Carmelo Anthony.

However, the Knicks did not play Frank Ntilikina as a point guard. They frequently relegated him to shooting guard and utilized him as a combo guard next to Emmanuel Mudiay, Trey Burke, and Jarret Jack. The Knicks entered the 2018 draft with an unknown point guard situation, and Shai Gilgeous Alexander, who was selected 11th overall, would have been an intriguing fit with Ntilikina.

It would have given the Knicks an identity with two tall and long point guards, who are both very versatile and robust perimeter defenders. They are not the best perimeter shooters, but they are combo guards who could have alternated between the two positions.

The defense would have been astounding, but the offensive fit is questionable. However, Shai is the best player (so far) the Knicks could have taken in this re-draft.

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