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3 draft prospects that could replace Mitchell Robinson if he leaves Knicks

By Jake Brown

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat goes up against Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks in the second half at FTX Arena on January 26, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat goes up against Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks in the second half at FTX Arena on January 26, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Memphis Tigers, Jalen Duren
Jalen Duren, Memphis Tigers. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

1. Jalen Duren, Freshman, Memphis Tigers

In his freshman year for Memphis, Jalen Duren averaged 12.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks in the 29 games he appeared in for the Tigers.

His best performance came in the AAC Quarterfinals, posting 21 points and 20 rebounds on 71% shooting in a dominant win over UCF, showing his capabilities on offense and defense.

Duren may be a tough one to grab off the board, as his projections vary being selected as early as No. 7 all the way down to being the No. 12 pick in different mock drafts. The Knicks will have to hope he slides due to being a project type of prospect.

He is one of the youngest players in this year’s draft and has similarities to Robinson’s game, as both look to finish on the inside and provide consistent rim protection.

Duren has excelled in the pick and roll game, setting physical screens to open the floor for his teammates on the perimeter, which is something that New York could use more of.

And despite being a few inches shorter than Robinson, Duren’s 7’5 wingspan will help plenty as today’s game has shifted its focus to small ball, and his frame certainly fits the criteria to be a successful center in the league over the next decade.

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