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As a Knicks fan, this is no surprise. I wasn't expecting the number one overall pick (only a 9% chance anyway), but I was hoping for higher. For starters, the Knicks will fall out of range for LaMelo Ball. Like it or not, this is a blessing in disguise. The name comes with high expectations and heavy baggage, he isn't suited for the today Knicks. Another guy the Knicks will most likely miss on is the highly touted Obi Toppin. He will be the star of the draft, and it's gutwrenching to see the Knicks miss out on another gem, similar to the past.
So the question is, who are the Knicks going choosing with that 8th pick in the draft?
Photo: @NBA
A few weeks back, I broked down some possible options in a blog. Looking at other mock drafts and player pick projections, 8 is a weird spot in the order. You most definitely will be missing out on big-name players, but you also aren't outside the top ten talent. The idea of drafting a Point Guard has grown tremendously on social media. Not many teams above the Knicks may fill their selection with a PG, so the Knicks can snag a talent here. The two obvious players, if available, are Tyrese Haliburton of Iowa State and Cole Anthony of UNC.
Haliburton is a 6-5 sophomore who averaged 15.2 points, 6.5 assists and 5.9 rebounds while shooting 50.4% from the field and 41.9% from 3-point range. He is a strong lead guard, who not only has formidable size, but also consistent shooting.
Cole Anthony is a 6-3 point guard who has attractive shooting numbers. With a weak supporting cast, Anthony averaged 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists for the Tar Heels. Prior to his injury, he was projected much higher in the first round.
Both players would make an immediate impact for the Knicks. They would complete the roster, especially RJ Barrett and Mitchell Robinson, well. Killian Hayes (another French Point Guard) is another name to keep an eye out for. The 19-year-old raw talent could be a high-risk-high-reward sneaky selection if they miss out on Haliburton or Anthony.
Who I would like them to draft: Cole Anthony
Who I think they will draft: Tyrese Haliburton
Photo: NothingButKnicks
The countdown to October 16th starts now. Let's hope this new management and coaching staff make the right decision to further build this team.
I will leave you with three chants for good luck.
"In Thibbs We Trust"
"LeonRoseToTheRescue"
"LearnTheGameFromWilliamWesley"