The New York Knicks will make their 2022 NBA Summer League debut on Friday against the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas. With the draft and free agency chaos in the rearview mirror (for the most part), it’s time for fans to sit back and watch the young guys cook.
And speaking of, 19-year-old Jean Montero will take the court for New York. The guard signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Knicks following the 2022 NBA Draft. He was listed as the No. 43 prospect entering the draft by The Athletic (subscription required), but his name wasn’t called on draft night.
With New York being two days away from playing in Vegas, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman ranked the undrafted summer league prospects. Guess who was No. 1? None other than Montero.
Knicks guard Jean Montero listed as top 2022 NBA Summer League prospect
An injury at the draft combine is likely what lowered Montero’s stock, as well as his 2021-22 stats with Team Overtime of Overtime Elite in its inaugural season, where he shot 28% from the 3-point line. His size (6’3” and 172 pounds) has been highlighted as one of the main concerns regarding his game.
At the Nike Hoop Summit in April, Montero scored a game-high 23 points (7-of-15 from the field, 4-of-8 from the 3-point line), three assists, one rebound, and one steal in 29 minutes.
"Montero’s lack of size and strength showed a few times at both ends, and there are still questions about his shooting based on his 27.8 percent three-point mark with Overtime. But after watching him against USA, scouts should feel better about his creation skills and playmaking translating because of his handle, quickness and IQ. His shot-making also looked more impressive than his previous numbers suggested."
His development is going to be key, and depending on what he displays between now and the start of the 2022-23 season, Montero could wind up with a two-way contract with the Knicks.
The Dominican Republic native will have the first chance to prove himself at the NBA level on Friday night. Montero will be a player to keep an eye on now and in the years to come. He’s betting on himself, and you should bet on him, too.
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