New York Knicks: 5 best options for the No. 19 pick in the NBA draft

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 27: Jared Butler #12 and Davion Mitchell #45 of the Baylor Bears react in the second half of their Sweet Sixteen game against the Villanova Wildcats in the 2021 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Hinkle Fieldhouse on March 27, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 27: Jared Butler #12 and Davion Mitchell #45 of the Baylor Bears react in the second half of their Sweet Sixteen game against the Villanova Wildcats in the 2021 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Hinkle Fieldhouse on March 27, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks
New York Knicks, NBA draft Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images /

Options for the New York Knicks in the NBA draft: 5. Jared Butler

Isn’t it ironic, how a draft selection can bring some championship mentality to a group of grown men playing in the NBA?

Jared Butler is exactly that, a big-time player that has already proved himself on the big stage. The cherry on top was when he scored a game-high 22 points and 7 assists with zero turnovers to help Baylor win their first championship in the school’s history, winning MOP in the process.

The New York Knicks are in a pretty weird spot in this NBA Draft. Most of the draftees rumored to fall around pick No. 19 are not filling any major gaps, making them unessential. However, there are quite a few players destined to be late first-round picks, that would suit New York’s playstyle much better.

This is where Jared Butler comes in, a player that will, baring any significant events, be present when the clock strikes 19.

So what are some of the things that he brings to the table? To be honest, Butler is one of those players that are above-average in almost every aspect of their game, yet do not excel at anything.

The outcome of having this “build”, is that Butler can become a top-tier scorer or passer, once he enters the league. He is already a good defender, 3-point shooter and playmaker. He just needs some time to find his true identity on the professional stage.

This is a low-risk/high-reward pick that the New York Knicks could be tempted to make. Whatever team ends up with Butler, chances are they won’t be disappointed by his production, even as a rookie.