2017 NBA Mock Draft: What if the Lakers don’t take Lonzo Ball?

For the New York Knicks, this pick could come down to either Kentucky’s Malik Monk or Strasbourg’s Frank Ntilikina. The French combo guard has really nice potential as a triangle point guard, but Monk’s upside as a scorer should push him over the edge.

Monk was an elite scorer in college primarily on the back of terrific shooting from behind the arc. He made 39.7 percent of his 3-point attempts, took them at a high volume and shot it well from the free throw line, helping to create some level of confidence that it will translate to the deeper 3-point line. He has a high, quick release and gets excellent elevation, which helps him avoid having his shot challenged as a 6-foot-3 guard.

The key to Monk’s offensive development will be his ability to make plays with the ball in his hands. He showed some shiftiness this season, but rarely got to the rim, leaving open questions about just how much he can do. Monk also flashed some potential as a passer who can facilitate out of the pick-and-roll by making easy reads and throwing lobs.

At worst, Monk should be a big time bucket getter simply on the back of his outside shooting.

Learn more about Malik Monk at The Step Back.