Cassius Winston, PG, Michigan State
The Knicks will likely have their eyes on multiple Spartans, with Cassius Winston also being an enticing option. The decorated senior left Michigan State holding the school’s all-time assist record as well as winning the 2019 Big Ten Player of the Year award.
His senior season was his best yet, averaging 18.6 points and 5.9 assists per game while posting impressive 45-43-85 shooting splits. He’s become extremely skilled in orchestrating the pick-and-roll and is capable of making nearly every pass in the book.
Defenders are almost always forced to go over screens due to his shot-making, allowing Winston to get into the paint and either score or find the open man. He has a good understanding of when to drive and kick, a staple of modern NBA offenses.
The one major downside is his height. At just 6’1″, his average defense will likely worsen against professional competition. However, the Knicks might have the talent to overcome his deficiency on the less glamorous end of the court.
Assuming he gets selected by New York, he’ll likely be penciled in as the second unit point guard. Tom Thibodeau could then use someone like Frank Ntilikina to take on tougher defensive assignments, allowing Winston to spend most of his energy on offense.
The Knicks will have multiple intriguing options if they hold onto the 38th pick, with impact players available at every position. Adding a promising complementary piece would not only help the team succeed immediately, but it would help other fellow budding players blossom into an exciting young core.