3 dream prospects Knicks can select with excellent 2022 NBA Draft Lottery result
1: Jabari Smith Jr. (PF)
Out of the three names on this list, Jabari Smith Jr. is likely the one that Knicks fans have heard the least. But the six-foot-ten forward’s been linked to New York for a reason and if the Knicks get a high pick and he’s still available, he should be selected.
In his freshman season at Auburn, Smith averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 block in 34 games. He shot 42.9% from the field, 42% from the 3-point line, and 79.9% from the free-throw line.
He was named the SEC Freshman of the Year because of his athleticism which allows for him to be an elite shooter, a solid rebounder, and a good defender. Smith has a high basketball IQ that will be extremely beneficial to him as he makes the transition to the NBA.
Why should the New York Knicks draft Auburn forward Jabari Smith Jr.?
But what would Smith being drafted by New York mean? His presence on the floor would open up the floor for Barrett, who should be the Knicks’ first option on the offensive end.
Similar to Banchero, Smith’s arrival to Madison Square Garden would impact both Randle and Toppin. Would it be a signifier to the end of Randle’s time with the Knicks? If that were to be true, Smith would be a better option in the starting lineup than Toppin.
As good as Toppin was to end 2021-22, New York could get more of out 19-year-old Smith, who has a higher ceiling.
The likelihood of the Knicks getting a top-4 pick is low, but not quite impossible. And the talent that Smith possesses can’t be denied. The Georgia native could soon be making the big move to the bright lights of New York City.
