New York Knicks: A fan’s guide to the college basketball season

For the New York Knicks, properly scouting college basketball is crucial to their future, especially since the 2017 NBA Draft looks to be talent rich.

One of the few things the New York Knicks got right during the Phil Jackson era was the NBA Draft. Kristaps Porzingis and Frank Ntilikina were selected by Phil in the first round, while Willy Hernangomez became a second round steal. All three were international talents, but the Knicks’ college basketball scouting program provided a talent barometer for overseas players.

With the start of college basketball fast approaching, NBA fans watch for players that can help their favorite team. Correctly scouting this year’s talent is more important than almost anything else in New York. It doesn’t matter whether they draft internationally or domestically, but choosing the right player does.

The jury is still out on the Frank Ntilikina draft choice. Solid early season performances by Dennis Smith Jr. and Malik Monk, two players Phil passed on, intensifies the microscope on the French phenom. Still, adding a 19-year-old who already has professional experience, go-go gadget arms and defensive talent is no small feat.

Kristaps Porzingis’ brother (who is also his agent) had strong words about the future of KP’s relationship with the Knicks, as reported by Mike Vaccaro of the NY Post. Consequently, this upcoming draft will have tangible consequences on the future of the New York Knicks.

In 2018, New York will have three selections coming their way: one first-rounder and two second-rounders. Assuming continued progress this season, the Knicks should select somewhere between picks 10-14 in the first round. Here are the three players (two first round possibilities and one second round) that could very well be chosen by the Knicks.