The Knicks won an international point guard at number 8 just three years ago, but Frank Ntilikina fell short with an average of six points per game over three seasons.
Fans might make the comparison if Killian Hayes were drafted, but he’s a very different player.
While Ntilikina is known for her defense, Hayes has the same offensive advantage as anyone else in the class. The 6’5 “guard averaged 12.8 points and 6.2 assists per game against top-tier competition in the EuroCup. He also shot 39% three-pointers on this stretch.
The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor lists Hayes as the # 1 player in the 2020 class, saying he “shows great potential as an off-dribble three-point shooter with Hardenesque moves.”
The ability to create shots could make him a star in the NBA, while his passing ability should at least allow him to be a valuable lead guard in the future.
Although he has limited athleticism and speed compared to other guards in the class, he could generate immediate offense for a Knicks team that needs a lot of help in this area.