New York Knicks SF/PF Kevin Knox
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Franchise role: Secondary scorer beside Kristaps Porzingis
Kristaps Porzingis is the New York Knicks' centerpiece. Early signs are pointing to the franchise having found its second cornerstone in Kevin Knox.
The draft's No. 9 pick flashed star potential in summer league, using the extra space and freedom he didn't have at Kentucky. Though he flourished in Las Vegas, he also averaged 15.6 points to lead the Wildcats in scoring as a freshman.
Standing 6'9" and 212 pounds, Knox's tools and face-up scoring versatility fuel tantalizing upside. He thrived in college working off the ball, shooting off screens and curling into runners and layups. But in Vegas, Knox demonstrated new one-on-one shot-creating that could eventually help propel him to No. 2 in the Knicks' offensive pecking order.
Head coach David Fizdale should feature the rookie right away, particularly since Porzingis is likely to miss the start of the season as he continues to recover from a torn ACL. Knox will have every opportunity to play through mistakes and build up his skill level, basketball IQ and confidence. And after three full NBA seasons, he'll be only 21 years old.
With a more proven NCAA forward on the board at No. 9 in Mikal Bridges, the Knicks chose Knox, presumably for his higher ceiling. He appears on track to approach those heights if summer league was any indication.
Knox could end up being the Knicks' No. 3 option in 2019-20 if they're able to acquire a prized free agent. Until then, he's their second-most valued asset, as well as one of the more exciting young prospects in the Eastern Conference.
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