NBA Draft: 5 March Madness prospects the New York Knicks may target
By Adam Kester
March Madness NBA Draft Prospects — Jalen Duren
Whatever the team’s plans for Mitchell Robinson this offseason are will have a direct impact on whether or not they would entertain selecting Jalen Duren in the 2022 NBA Draft. Duren will remind fans a lot of Robinson with his explosiveness, size, and shot-blocking ability. The difference is that Duren has shown the potential to be a much more dynamic interior scorer.
Duren is a highly-touted prospect who will very likely be snagged within the first 10 picks. He’s got terrific NBA size with a 7-foot-5 wingspan and his frame appears as though it could fill out well as he continues to add muscle.
Duren is still just 18 years old, and the opportunity to get a rookie who could not only slot into a major role (If Mitch were to walk) but also grow into something special could work out very well for the Knicks.
The No. 9 seed Memphis has some notable names on the roster and Duren will be the headliner. He’s had some dominating performances, including a recent 21-point, 20-rebound game against UCF. Duren could have some big tests this March Madness so it will be fun to see how he performs.
While he may be mostly a rim-runner on offense, Duren has the potential to be an effective post player and finisher. He’s shown plenty of scoring flashes this season at Memphis and his potential may be enticing for the Knicks front office.