7. Jericho Sims – 5/10
It’s clear to most Knicks fans at this point that the team did a tremendous job in the 2021 NBA Draft. While most of the attention goes towards first-round pick Quentin Grimes, the No. 58 overall pick last year turned in a very solid rookie season himself.
When drafted, most saw Jericho Sims as a tall, rangy center with freakish athleticism. While he does possess that, and it was on full display throughout his rookie year, it was the growth as a defender that really stood out.
While many were impressed with Sims and his play, there are questions about his potential to grow offensively, and while New York may have him pencilled in as the backup center going forward, there is a good chance that he will be thrown into a trade to increase the value.
Given the Knicks’ need for depth at center (as they can’t be relying on Nerlens Noel due to his injuries and Taj Gibson due to his age), Sims is likely going to stick around for a while.
But if a team comes calling and wants him, and the deal makes sense for New York, it would be easy for the Knicks to include him in a package for a player they are seeking.