SNYs Ian Begley to which we will respond and break down the answers Knicks questions from readers. Here’s the latest…
Hey Ian, do you think the Knicks would use at least one of their draft picks this season to acquire a young prospect, or do you think they’ll end up trading all three picks (if you had to guess)? – @KNYT_Hoops
Previously, I would have said I would be shocked if the Knicks actually used all three of their draft picks, but I’m starting to think it’s possible they draft as many as three players. What is your idea of the most likely way they will use the pickaxes? -@NolanPReynolds
Thanks for the questions, guys. The 2024 NBA Draft is still three weeks away. So it is difficult to determine anything with certainty at this time.
If I had to guess, the Knicks will make at least one of their three picks this year. They own No. 24 and No. 25 in the first round and No. 38 in the second.
ESPN and Yahoo have reported that the Knicks are looking to trade their first-round picks. This makes sense, given the recent history of the organization and the current state of the franchise.
New York, as we all know, will be aggressive in trades this season. If the Knicks have the opportunity to add a top player who fits the roster, they will vigorously pursue that player.
The Knicks took that approach in the 2022 offseason Donovan Mitchell. I expect they will do this again when the right opportunity presents itself.
In this scenario, they would use their draft capital in potential transactions. They can currently deal as many as eight first-round picks. So it makes sense that New York would be open to moving their picks. The Knicks also have a history of trading their picks on draft night under team president Leon Roos.
But I don’t get the feeling they’re fully committed to moving their 2024 picks.
At a number of recent draft meetings in New York, discussions focused on finding players in the draft who can fill a void.
In the aftermath of their Game 7 loss to the Pacers, there was internal concern about the Knicks’ roster depth in the postseason (especially against Indiana). So in some of these recent draft meetings, the focus has been on finding players who can strengthen the back end of the roster.
Could the Knicks be preparing for multiple scenarios on draft night? Absolute. NBA front offices are responsible for preparing for all offseason possibilities. So the Knicks are likely talking about the possibilities of making their pick, while also looking at potential trade opportunities.
But it’s worth noting that the conclusion from some at these recent meetings is that the Knicks will add talent through the 2024 draft.
