The NBA downplayed Thursday’s first-ever virtual lottery as it won’t have all the bells, whistles, and usual full transparency due to COVID-19 security measures.
But it’s a bigger night than ever for the Knicks and their rookie president, Leon Rose, who will represent the club on the lottery “stage” via Zoom. “Lucky Leon”, who will bring a good luck charm, will finally find out if he will be positioned to select the best point guard on their draw, LaMelo Ball.
The Post reported that Ball’s preference is New York and his managers are not averse to driving him there. Father Lavar Ball has already stated that the Knicks are the best choice.
“I’ll be very comfortable making the call,” Rose said in an interview with MSG Network in late June.
The Knicks could fall back just as easily. At that point, the Knicks could withdraw a night trade and go back to gather more resources in what is seen as a fair project.
In fact, the greater likelihood that the Knicks won’t move. They have a 62.8% chance to choose between 6 and 10. That would put point guard and Manhattan product Cole Anthony at stake, as the Knicks’ preference is for a point guard to score.
“It’s interesting, this draft, a couple of guys stand out, and there’s a lot of equality after that,” Rose said. “I think there are a lot of guys who are neighbors with different skill sets, different positives, different negatives. It’s fun, every scout, there are different opinions. Much more different opinions than in years past.”
The proceedings will take place in Secaucus, NJ, instead of in the lavish ballroom of a Chicago hotel due to the pandemic. The results will be read by Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum.