LaMelo Ball could find himself the first choice if New York wins the lottery. While things may change over time and the addition of college scout Walt Perrin could alter the direction of the team, Ball is said to be the flagship guard in the New York draft.
If there is a clear position of necessity for the Knicks, he is guarding the point. The team believes that adding a versatile director can help “unlock” their young core of RJ Barrett and Mitchell Robinson. Dennis Smith Jr’s days in New York seem numbered and Frank Ntilikina is probably the best in a bench role.
President Leon Rose appears ready to prioritize adding a legitimate offensive guard to the list. If they win the lottery, LaMelo Ball is the perfect solution.
LaMelo, who is the brother of the NBA point guard Lonzo Ball, has the goods to steal the hearts of faithful Madison Square Garden with his incredible passing prowess. Think about Mark Jackson in his beginner campaign. The style would return to Broadway. Imagine that Ball throws lob at Mitchell Robinson?!
Matching Ball with RJ Barrett will create an urgency for general manager Scott Perry to add filming to the lineup. Neither Ball nor Barrett present a three-point threat, which could cause problems if the team also decides to start Mitchell Robinson, whose range extends until he can crush basketball.
LaMelo Ball is the right match for the New York spotlight. The Knicks should be expected to use the best choice to select him.