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New York Knicks: 2018 NBA Draft grades

By Kenneth Teape

NEW YORK, USA - JUNE 21: Kevin Knox (L) leaves the stage after being drafted ninth overall by the New York Knicks during the 2018 NBA Draft in Barclays Center in New York, United States on June 21, 2018. (Photo by Mohammed Elshamy/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, USA - JUNE 21: Kevin Knox (L) leaves the stage after being drafted ninth overall by the New York Knicks during the 2018 NBA Draft in Barclays Center in New York, United States on June 21, 2018. (Photo by Mohammed Elshamy/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) /
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No. 36: Mitchell Robinson, USA

Second round selections are all about finding value. The Knicks did that with the No. 36 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, selecting center Mitchell Robinson.

Robinson did not play basketball last season, but is a worthwhile risk for the Knicks in the second round. Had he played at Western Kentucky this past season, there is a good chance that he would have been selected in the lottery; that is the kind of talent that New York just landed.

Robinson is a freak athlete. He showcased that athleticism during some pre-draft workouts. Standing right around seven feet tall, Robinson also showed off his impressive wingspan.

In addition to the athleticism, Robinson also has a solid touch from the 3-point line, making him a great fit for the modern NBA. Defensively, Robinson is already an elite shot blocker. That athleticism and length combined will be a lethal combination alongside Kristaps Porzingis. Robinson is also a strong rebounder.

While Robinson is oozing with potential, the question is, can he reach it? Not playing last season is a big knock against him as he has a lot to prove. Like many young players, he needs to find more consistency with his game and develop more offensively. Honing in on his immense potential will be a top priority for the coaching staff.

Given his potential and raw talent, Robinson was a worthwhile selection at No. 36. The Knicks are swinging for the fences and could have one of the biggest steals of the draft. Robinson was a top high school player and lottery talent that New York landed at No. 36. The value and need matched, making this a strong pick.

Grade: A

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