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New York Knicks: Three choices for the 8th pick in the 2020 NBA Draft

By Alexander Trataros

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 29: A 'we love New York' is displayed on a billboard outside the Madison Square Garden as the city continues Phase 4 of re-opening following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on August 29, 2020 in New York City. The fourth phase allows outdoor arts and entertainment, sporting events without fans and media production. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 29: A 'we love New York' is displayed on a billboard outside the Madison Square Garden as the city continues Phase 4 of re-opening following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on August 29, 2020 in New York City. The fourth phase allows outdoor arts and entertainment, sporting events without fans and media production. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, NBA draft (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
New York Knicks, NBA draft (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

New York Knicks NBA draft Option No. 3: Isaac Okoro

According to Ian Begley, Isaac Okoro is linked to the Knicks. The 6’6″, 225 lbs wing from Auburn University averaged 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2 assists, 51.4 field goal percentage, and 28.6 3-point percentage in 31.5 minutes per game.

Okoro is known as a finisher around the rim, versatile defender, and subtle playmaker. But out of all of his traits, he is best known for his defense because he understands how to defend on-ball, rotate on help defense and utilize his size to guard multiple positions. He started as a freshman for the Tigers while the remaining starters were all seniors because of his defensive understanding.

The former Tiger is also a decent offensive talent, especially since he understands how to play within his envelope (meaning he doesn’t take shots or make moves he’s not comfortable with). He knows how to get to his spots on the floor and make his presence felt. Whether that’s attacking the rim, taking open jump shots, or looking to get other players involved.

Okoro’s strengths would help the Knicks. On the other hand, his weaknesses would add to the struggle the team faced this past season.

Okoro’s shooting form and shot creation are his most significant weaknesses. While at Auburn, his jumper was inconsistent, especially from 3-point land – that explains why he averaged 28.6 percent from three. When watching Okoro take a jump shot, it’s visible that his mechanics were flawed, which led to his inconsistency and limited his ability to create his own shot. Yet, this part of his game shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.

Shooting and shot creation is an attribute that’s fixable at the NBA level. Players such as Blake Griffin, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, and Lonzo Ball are all players that have improved their jump shot while in the league.

If Okoro does end up on the Knicks, this would be a decent selection for the team. He would fit the mold of a Tom Thibodeau-led team that will prioritize defense and takes pride in hard work to improve every day. The hope is that Okoro will continue to develop his jump shot and contribute on the offensive end.

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