New York Knicks Projected to Land Duke Forward

The New York Knicks hold two potential first-round picks in the upcoming NBA Draft: their own selection and a protected pick from the Washington Wizards, which they would receive only if the Wizards finish with a record placing them between 9th and 30th. Although this scenario is considered unlikely, the Knicks are expected to pick in the 20-30 range.

In Jonathan Wasserman's recent mock draft for Bleacher Report, the Knicks are projected to select Duke forward Isaiah Evans with the 24th overall pick. Wasserman highlights Evans' potential for increased offensive aggression and shot creation in his sophomore year, noting his exceptional spot-up efficiency—ranking in the 99th percentile—and a 48.3% three-point shooting rate. Even if his one-on-one and playmaking skills don't significantly improve, his advanced shooting could make him an attractive late first-round option for scouts.

Evans, a sophomore from Fayetteville, N.C., averaged 6.8 points per game as a freshman at Duke while shooting 41.6% from beyond the arc. He was ranked as the No. 3 small forward in the 2024 recruiting class, ahead of Kon Knueppel, who was selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Hornets. With both Knueppel and top overall pick Cooper Flagg no longer at Duke, Evans is expected to see increased playing time and opportunities as a creator, potentially boosting his draft stock for the 2026 NBA Draft, where the Knicks could be a suitor.

The Knicks are approaching the start of training camp and the preseason, with ongoing coverage available through dedicated sports media channels.