Posted by BRIGGS:
I highly doubt the Knicks want Thabeet even at 8. The Knicks are really running an offensive-minded system. While Thabeet has shown some signs of offense--he's probably 25th on the list of players the Knicks consider in terms of what will help their system.
They want Curry or Rubio and really I have no idea who they would want after that. I would say this draft is a Rubio Curry or bust for the Knicks--to the point where getting rid of more salary cap is a distant second place. I think they want either one of these guys and anything else may be considerably less.
I think Thabeet is a bit raw for MikeD's system, but I think every system has room for a 7'3 shotblocker that can run the floor. With pure offense generated by the other four players, the center doesn't need to do much more than clean up the boards and score off the pick and roll.
As I understand defense, it really works from the inside out. Having a strong defensive presence on the block will allow the other players to commit to their perimeter defense, rather than being worried about being beat off the dribble.
Contrast that with MikeD's offense in Phoenix requiring a strong PG. I think his ideal system doesn't really have a PG per se, but rather 5 players that can pass. I know Rubio can pass, but can he shoot? Didn't seem like that was a strength. That said, if Rubio can be a Jason Kidd, I don't know how you avoid trying to get this kid. But MikeD could make Du-doo look good for half a season, and made Nash into a two-time MVP. I think a semi-talented PG will look like an all-star with his guidance. I think I'd rather have Curry than Rubio, though. That shooting ability would be a terror in this system.