New York Knicks: The Complete 2021 Offseason Review

The Knicks approach to the draft

The Knicks came into the draft with 4 picks; 19th, 21st, 32nd and 58th. The likelihood of them finding an impact player in those spots was minimal. Since trading up was not a viable option, they did the next best thing, they traded back for more picks while still acquiring players they liked.

They finished the night selecting 4 players and a future 1st round and 2nd round pick. They added 2 young players that can play right away and a 3rd draft-and-stash player. Rokas Jokubaitis is a young and upcoming player who will play for one of the best teams in Europe, Barcelona. His value can increase dramatically next year if he plays well. The Knicks can end up having a player develop for them without using a roster spot.

The players the Knicks selected are not coming in with much fanfare, but neither did Joe Harris, Goran Dragic, and Malcolm Brogdon, 3 very good players that were also selected in the 2nd round. If the Knicks just hit on 1 of those 3 picks: Grimes, Jokubaitis, or McBride, then this draft will be considered a huge success.

NY ultimately accomplished their goals in the draft, they added young talent that fits their culture and fills a need while acquiring more draft capital they can use for future trades. So while the Knicks weren’t able to land their top choices, they improved the team and increased their treasure trove of assets. Now on to free agency.