Knicks Draft: 4 combo guards to consider in first round

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Mar 7, 2020; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Tyrese Maxey (3) celebrates after they made the go head shot against the Florida Gators during the second half at Exactech Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Combo Guards for the Knicks to consider: Tyrese Maxey

Tyrese Maxey didn’t play point guard at Kentucky, and he likely won’t become one in the NBA. Maxey is a classic tweener guard coming into the league. He’s a jack of all trades who could have a big impact.

While Maxey may be locked in as a shooting guard, that doesn’t mean he can’t fulfill limited point guard duties. Maxey was prolific as a pick-and-roll ball handler at Kentucky.

Despite his 6’3″ stature, Maxey has no problem sizing up opponents on defense. One of the strongest pound-for-pound players in the draft, Tyrese Maxey bullies people on defense.

Maxey’s combination of strength and quickness is what allows him to defend both speedy point guards and taller shooting guards. Coach Tom Thibodeau may fall in love with his defense.

Maxey isn’t a knockdown shooter by any means, but he has shown mechanics and shot 83 percent from the free-throw line this past season.

Maybe he’s not a superstar, but Tyrese Maxey’s shot creation and bullish defense are enough reasons to believe he can be an impact player for the Knicks for years to come.

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