2. LaMelo Ball, G, Illawarra (NBL)
Best fit: New York Knicks
There might not be a more ideal fit for LaMelo Ball than the New York Knicks. And I’m not sure that’s a good thing for the Knicks. Nevertheless, this is a team that is desperate for a star and one that doesn’t exactly shy away from pulling the trigger and taking a big swing. Assuming that the Knicks won’t pursue Chris Paul via trade this summer, Ball could become the new face of New York.
As a prospect, there’s plenty to like about Ball. He’s a big point guard (6-foot-7) and is still growing into his frame at the age of 18. He has proven that he can score a basketball, averaging 17 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists per game. Though, he does struggle with his efficiency, only shooting 37 percent from the field.
That isn’t all that surprising for an 18-year-old but it is something to monitor and a risk that any team that drafts him is going to have to take on. If he is the real deal, though, he could be the next big star in the NBA. And what better place to achieve that than in New York?