The New York Knicks need a point guard. While the team is making a top defender a priority this offseason, Carmelo Anthony needs an elite point guard to work with. Jose Calderon was expected to be that type of player, but injuries and confusion with the triangle offense prevented that from happening. Langston Galloway earned All-Rookie honors trying to be that type of player, but it was merely too little, too late. Now the Knicks are left to decide if getting a point guard in the draft is more worthwhile than spending a max contract on one.
The New York Knicks earned the No. 4 pick in the NBA Draft and according to Ian Begley of ESPNNewYork.com, they are open to using that selection on a point guard. The No. 4 pick could land them one of the top two players in either D'Angelo Russell or Emmanuel Mudiay as both players reportedly spoke with general manager Steve Mills at the NBA Draft Lottery.
Mudiay is an unknown for most NBA teams as he forged college to play overseas in China. According to ESPN Insider Fran Fraschilla, Mudiay is the ideal point guard since he can play both guard positions thanks to his size and strength while being strong on perimeter defense. Most NBA scouts believe Mudiay could start immediately since he has the experience of an NBA-style season while playing with NBA rules. The adjustment period would be smaller.
Russell is considered the best point guard in the draft which is why many mock drafts believe he will go to the Philadelphia 79ers at the No. 3 pick. However, that is not stopping the Knicks from seeing what he looks like. The New York Post reports the former Ohio State standout closely resembles Stephen Curry in his style of play while being one of the better shooters in the draft. He would be the ideal play creator for Anthony.
The Knicks could opt to draft a rookie over spending money on Rajon Rondo or Goran Dragic. Both players are expected to command a max contract. The Knicks have the salary cap space to hand out a max deal, but they must decide if it worth spending on a point guard or defender. One will come in the draft and one will come via a contract in free agency.
