3. Kevin Knox, New York Knicks
Maybe this is a bit of an overreaction to a strong performance at Summer League, but the First-Teamer quickly proved he’s worth the hype, posting 21.3 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in Vegas. With Kristaps Porzingis‘ timetable still unclear, Kevin Knox could see big frontcourt minutes right away.
He’ll have to earn his opportunities under new head coach David Fizdale, but if Knox proves he can handle the responsibilities of a small-ball 4, rather than play backup small forward behind Tim Hardaway Jr., he could carve out starter’s minutes for himself by opening night.
If that’s the case, there’s no question the New York Knicks will need offense outside of THJ and Enes Kanter until the Unicorn returns. In that scenario, the impressive Kevin Knox could put up the raw numbers to be the biggest Rookie of the Year sleeper.