Knox should be getting more attention as the 2018 NBA Draft draws near.
Only a few players are getting hyped-up as the 2018 NBA Draft draws near. Left out of that spotlight is one player I think will excel in the League. He’s University of Kentucky forward, Kevin Knox.
Courtesy: Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images), published in Sports Illustrated
Knox has size–at 6”9’ 215 pounds with about a seven-foot wingspan–just the right stature to play the three and four. Knox’s jump shot is fluid, too (especially from three), and without mechanical flaws. He’s good at scoring off defensive rebounds in transition, too–able to catch the ball off the initial pass and capable of going coast-to-coast in transition.
These characteristics solidify Knox as an athletic, versatile forward who’s ready to contribute in today’s NBA.
Of course, Knox has weaknesses, just like every other NBA prospect. In Knox’s case, those weaknesses include his motor, weight, and shot selection.
At UK, Knox didn’t show signs of fatigue when he was hot and scoring at ease. But things changed when his shots weren’t falling. NBA coaches will make sure that Knox gets in shape and maintains intensity no matter what the circumstance on the floor.
Then there’s Knox’s weight. He seems “light” compared to forward counterparts in the NBA. That may give him problems defending the post and attacking inside. The solution is simple–gain 15-20 pounds of muscle. Weight gain will not only help him in the post. It will also enable him to guard all five positions more effectively.
Finally, Knox needs to improve his shot selection. He takes too many contested perimeter shots. It’s uncertain whether that tendency is due to his unwillingness to drive, lack of ball handling skills, or inability to get better shots. No matter the reason(s), NBA coaching systems will help. Most teams create space on offense so that players are able to get more open looks.
Knox’s profile reminds me of Portland’s Al-Farouq Aminu.
But I think Knox could end up being a better player than Aminu. Why? It’s his athleticism. Knox is more versatile.
And while I don’t want to be accused of hyperbole, I think Knox’s max comparison is Paul George. Sure, Knox doesn’t have the reliable offensive abilities of PG, but I believe that he could develop into a like-caliber player–with development, off-season improvement, and prime coaching.
All in all, Kevin Knox should be getting more attention as the 2018 NBA Draft draws near. His size and offense say to me that he could develop into a 20+ ppg scorer.
