NY Knicks: 3 players the Knicks could have drafted in 2021 NBA Draft
Should the NY Knicks have selected Jalen Johnson in the 2021 NBA Draft?
Jalen Johnson was not someone I wanted in this year’s draft but only because of the narrative surrounding his name.
He was viewed as a ‘quitter’ because he left his high school team early to supposedly prepare for college.
And then, he left Duke early in preparation for the NBA Draft.
His dedication and love of the game were in question for sure, and understandably so. But so far, he’s done nothing but show out.
He was projected to be a Top 10 pick in this year’s draft with some mocks having him in the Top 3 or 4 coming out of high school.
It was common knowledge that the Knicks were interested in drafting Trey Murphy III but he was taken just 2 picks before they had a chance to select him.
I believe the front office made attempts to move up in an attempt to get Murphy, Duarte, or Kispert…but failed to do so.
If they were looking for a big wing who could shoot, score and play defense…why not Jalen Johnson.
Picked 20th overall to the Atlanta Hawks, he’s done nothing but impress so far this summer.
He’s averaging 17 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game.
I understand not risking a Top 10 selection on a guy who has potential character flaws, but pick 19?
I hope I’m the “wrong-est” about this take.