Kevin Knox, F, Kentucky
Knox was one of the highest rated players coming out of high school and the highest rated player in Kentucky’s recruiting class for 2017.
He is an extremely skilled shooter, that is the No. 1 thing to like about his game. In the Wildcats’ most recent game against Kansas in the Champions Classic, Knox was knocking down 3-pointers with ease. Whether he was wide open or shooting contested jumpers, he was clearly the best shooter on the floor that night. Here are his full highlights from the game:
Despite being a knockdown shooter, Knox likes to attack the rim and get to the free throw line where he is very efficient. The one aspect of his game that needs improvement is his finishing at the rim. Knox also needs to utilize a pump fake and try to get to the basket more consistently as he often settles for long jumpers.
Defensively he profiles as a four because of his ability to defend in the post and rebound and his lack of quickness defending faster players on the perimeter.
He could be a solid upgrade for the Sixers at a backup four position. He could come off the bench and would fit well with a guy like Simmons as he is a big that can help spread the floor. It will be interesting to watch how he develops the rest of the season, but Knox is already a guy I would like to see the Sixers consider in the No. 7-10 range should they pick there.