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NBA Draft 2017: Predicting the first ten selections

ByKeith Rivas|
Jan 29, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) walks up court during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center. Arizona won 77-66. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) walks up court during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center. Arizona won 77-66. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 31, 2016; Coral Gables, FL, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball against Miami Hurricanes guard Ja’Quan Newton (0) during the first half at Watsco Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Coral Gables, FL, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball against Miami Hurricanes guard Ja’Quan Newton (0) during the first half at Watsco Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

One of the steals from this year’s draft is Dennis Smith Jr. from NC State. The powerful point guard will be the Knicks’ replacement for the ailing Derrick Rose after another injury all but points that he’s done in New York.

Mix that with the unfortunate handling of Carmelo Anthony by Phil Jackson and the Knicks are left hoping for a silver lining. In looking for that, an opportunity to draft a point guard that can immediately contribute arises.

Realistically, the Knicks have nothing to lose by taking Smith Jr. Averaging 18 points, six assists, and four rebounds per game, he could be the rookie point guard whose game translates the quickest.

The next level will be hard for a lot of the top prospects to get a grip on. However, Smith Jr. has shown he can excel when he needs to. If the Knicks pass on him, they pass on any chance of consistency or hope for the next two seasons.

Yeah, it’s that bad in the big apple.

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