The 2024 NBA Draft is here, and the New York Knicks made some moves.
The Knicks came into Wednesday night three picks in this draft — No. 24, No. 25, and No. 38, which is a second-round pick.
However, they traded No. 24 to the Washington Wizards for the 26th overall pick and No. 51. The Knicks then traded No. 26 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for five second-round picks.
After swinging a blockbuster trade for Mikal Bridges that cost the Knicks a massive amount of future draft picks, New York figured to approach this draft in a few different ways.
The Knicks had already been exploring trade scenarios with their picks. There was a belief the Knicks might move one of their first rounders to save money and perhaps pick up future assets.
With the 25th pick, the Knicks selected French guard Pacome Dadiet.
On Day 2, the Knicks traded future second-round picks up to No. 34 to select Marquette guard Tyler Kolek.
The Knicks traded the 38th pick to the Thunder for No. 40 and cash. They moved the No. 40 pick to the Suns for picks No. 51 and No. 56.
Knicks draft picks 2024: What picks does New York have?
Round 1, Pick No. 25: Pacome Dadiet, G/F, France
Round 2, Pick No. 34: Tyler Kolek, G, Marquette
Round 2, Pick No. 51:
Round 2, Pick No. 56:
Knicks biggest draft needs
With the addition of Bridges and the Knicks ensuing cap crunch, the team's draft needs have changed a bit. The team had previously been linked to Virginia forward Ryan Dunn, who's considered the best defender in the draft. Perhaps the Knicks still like him and want to load up on as many lengthy wing defenders as possible, but with Bridges and potentially Anunoby, it's not a need.
With reports that the Knicks may be unable to re-sign Hartenstein, finding a center may become a priority. However, the Knicks may look for a more versatile big man — one who can switch on defense and make quick decisions on offense. Shooting would be a bonus, too.
Backup guard also remains a need. While Miles McBride made huge strides last season as a reserve guard, the Knicks' offense often cratered without Jalen Brunson on the floor. A rookie point won't be ready to lead the second unit right away, but the right passer could evolve into a useful floor general down the line.
The Knicks might also keep an eye on the future, too. They have generally preferred older, more NBA-ready prospects, even if their "ceiling" is lower. However, following the Bridges trade and all of the picks the Knicks sent out, they might want take a gamble on high-ceiling prospect. If the Knicks can stay even moderately healthy this season, it seems unlikely that any rookie will crack their rotation. But in two, three years' time, as the Knicks get more expensive and have to make tough roster decisions, developing a player with a lot of potential could pay off.
Knick 2024 mock draft
Here is how the Knicks' 2024 NBA Draft could unfold, according to The Sporting News' Kyle Irving's newest mock draft:
No. 24: Terrence Shannon Jr., G/F, Illinois
No. 25: Ryan Dunn, F, Virginia
No. 38: Bobi Klintman, F, Cairns Taipans (Australia)
