NBA Draft: Mock 3.0 – NY Knicks load up on offense
By Adam Kester
F. New York Knicks. Ziaire Williams. 21. player. 27.
2021 NBA Draft Mock 3.0: New York Knicks select Ziaire Williams
This Knicks team may have shocked the world this past season and finished as the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference, but they are still some steps away from competing for a title.
With so many young players who are a part of the core roster, New York will want to continue building a long-term contender. This is a team that can take a shot on some top-tier talent that may take time to develop, and Ziaire Williams’ ridiculous potential is amazing value at pick 21.
Williams was a potential top-10 pick heading into the 2019-20 college basketball season but didn’t reach expectations.
Still, the “rawness” of his game gets overblown. While Williams has to work on his strength, shot selection, and consistency, he can contribute in a lot of different areas. He’s far from the classic “raw athlete” type of prospect who’s still playing catch-up and learning the game.
Williams is a good passer for his size who also has some nice defensive instincts, and I think it could get him into the Knicks rotation in his rookie season.
Really, this pick is more about Williams’ ridiculous upside as a 6’8 go-to-scorer and ball-handler, and New York could be getting a potential franchise player with this pick.
Los Angeles Lakers. Chris Duarte. 22. player. 20. . G
2021 NBA Draft Mock 3.0: Los Angeles Lakers select Chris Duarte
As the Lakers look to bounce back and maximize their LeBron-led title window, they’re going to want to do some retooling.
The team wants more shooters and players who guys who can confidently put the ball on the floor, and Chris Duarte is a perfect fit to take on a big role early on.
The 24-year-old Duarte is a versatile piece. At 6’6, he can not only play on the wing but he can take on some ball-handling duties in the backcourt. Really, LA can plot him anywhere as a surrounding shooter and passer to support Lebron James and Anthony Davis.
LA is going to want a quick turnaround for the 2021-22 season and Chris Duarte can help them get back in the championship hunt.