NBA Mock Draft: Ranking top 10 realistic picks for New York Knicks

7. Dariq Whitehead, G, Duke

If the New York Knicks want to take more of a risk with their projected first-round pick, there is one prospect that will likely be available that would fit that line of thinking – Duke wing Dariq Whitehead. He’s a player that has not had the best freshman season but also a prospect that carries a ton of potential heading into the 2023 NBA Draft. At this point, the only way he is drafted in the lottery is if he absolutely kills the pre-draft and individual workouts.

If he doesn’t, there’s going to be a team that drafts him in the middle of the first round that may be getting a potential steal of the draft. During his freshman season, Whitehead averaged eight points on 43% shooting from three-point range in a bench role for the Blue Devils. However, he has the athleticism and size to be much more than just a 3-and-D contributor at the next level.

For Whitehead, it’ll be about landing in the right spot. He may need a year or two of development but there’s a chance he could blossom into a very good player down the road. But he’s certainly considered a bit of a risky pick.