5 Draft prospects Knicks fans must watch closely during March Madness

4. Julian Strawther, G, Gonzaga

There are still plenty of variances when it comes to Julian Strawther and his prospects heading into the 2023 NBA Draft but he’s certainly a player whose skill set would fit areas of weakness for the Knicks. In recent weeks, Strawther is a name that has begun to climb up draft boards. And if he has a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament, his draft stock is only going to rise even more.

What NBA teams (and the Knicks) have to like most about Strawther is the fact that he’s one of the most efficient offensive players in college basketball. He’s averaging 15 points and six rebounds on 48 percent shooting from the field and 43 percent shooting from three-point range. He made quite the improvement from his freshman to junior year and continues to improve as a prospect.

All that said, it’s hard to overlook his weaknesses. He’s not a great defender and lacks the natural playmaking ability to be a surefire prospect. Those two big minuses are likely the biggest reason he won’t be a lottery pick in the draft. Would the Knicks be willing to bet on his elite shooting, though? He may be that good of a shooter.