NBA Draft 2013: New York Knicks Select Tim Hardaway Jr.

Apr 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) scores as Louisville Cardinals center Gorgui Dieng (10) defends during the second half of the championship game in the 2013 NCAA mens Final Four at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

The New York Knicks had some clear needs heading into the first round of the 2013 NBA draft with the No. 24 overall pick in hand. New York made the decision to roll with Tim Hardaway Jr. out of Michigan.

Talk about making a big splash at an area of need.

You know the deal with the Knicks. The team is centered around Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire, but Anthony is battling a semi-serious shoulder issue and not all of the role players surrounding the dynamic duo are a sure thing.

Hardaway only bolsters the supporting cast.

Here’s NBA.com’s thoughts on Hardaway:

"Hardaway has been projected by many draft analysts to be a late first-round pick. The son of former Golden State Warrior star Tim Hardaway, Sr. has NBA size and scoring ability. But he’ll have to get stronger so he can handle his defensive assignments."

Hardaway is going to put some serious pressure on guys like Raymond Felton. He has a ways to go in the strength department before he can have a serious impact, but he’s sound in all areas which will allow him to act as a nice complement to both Melo and Stoudemire.

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