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Knicks: Damyean Dotson stands out in 2017 NBA Summer League

By Ed Easton Jr.

FAYETTEVILLE, AR - DECEMBER 6: Damyean Dotson #21 of the Houston Cougars goes up for a layup during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena on December 6, 2016 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Cougars 84-72. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
FAYETTEVILLE, AR - DECEMBER 6: Damyean Dotson #21 of the Houston Cougars goes up for a layup during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena on December 6, 2016 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Cougars 84-72. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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The New York Knicks may have a hidden gem with second round selection Damyean Dotson, as he looks great after his Summer League performance.

It’s pretty obvious the New York Knicks Summer League team wasn’t going to give fans any winning streaks heading into the 2017-18 season. The emergence of second round selection Damyean Dotson has many in the front office excited as the team continues to prepare for its rebuilding youth movement this offseason.

The University of Houston college star was able to translate his skills rather quickly into the NBA Summer League atmosphere. Being selected 44th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft may come off as a sleeper pick in many minds, but Dotson has already in a short period of time shown that is not just a number.

Dotson has caught the attention of head coach Jeff Hornacek, who praised the 23-year-old for his awareness and feel for the game. Hornacek shared these thoughts on his new rookie wing man with reporters at the Orlando practice facility.

"“He can really shoot the ball, he’s athletic, I wasn’t quite sure how his feel for the game is but his feel for the game has been great in these scrimmages. He’s making the right passes at the right time and he’s one of those guys when he gets an open look at it you’re pretty confident he’s going to make it.”"

Dotson was the leader on the floor for the 1-4 Summer League Knicks, displaying excellent court vision and athleticism. His ability to take over a game was on full display during a matchup this week against the Miami Heat. Dotson poured in 20 points, grabbed nine rebounds and dished four assists, showing his value all over the court.

The Knicks were in need of another three-point shooter last season and Dotson’s sharp shooting ability could be the missing piece. During his last year in college, Dotson averaged 17.4 points per game with the Cougars, primarily as a catch-and-shoot player.

Dotson, who averaged 12.8 points per game during the five games in Orlando Summer League, isn’t too worried about his role with the Knicks. He expressed his interest in an interview to just grow and develop as a player while appreciating the reality of being in the NBA.

"“I feel I can knock down open threes and definitely space out the floor, rebound and play defense,’’ Dotson said. “I’m not too sure about [my role], but I feel like I can put myself in a new position to get on the court and be a great teammate. But I feel like it’s a great position for anybody to be drafted and be in the NBA.”“I’m still adjusting, still stuff to get used to on the defensive end. The defensive spacing and rotations. It’s so spaced out with multiple pick-and-rolls.”"

Dotson knocked down an impressive 12 of his last 20 three-point attempts during the tournament, creating great momentum for himself heading into training camp.

Next: 2017 NBA free agency tracker - Grades for every deal so far

The Knicks recently made an offer to Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency and currently still have Courtney Lee, Lance Thomas and Mindaugas Kuzminskas under contract, creating a logjam at the wing positions. It’s uncertain whether or not a trade will be made to clear room, but it’s clear Dotson needs to see time on the floor at Madison Square Garden.