The Knicks, after whiffing on Frank Ntilikina and Dennis Smith Jr., finally lock up the point guard position with Kira Lewis Jr. He joins a fast and physical Knicks lineup — one that could start to find an identity under the rollicking leadership of Tom Thibodeau. Lewis might immediately become New York’s more important long-term piece.
Lewis brings a lot to the table offensively. He’s a speedster, using a lightning-quick first step to penetrate the defenses in the halfcourt. He’s a knife cutting through warm butter, which pairs nicely with his feel for playmaking out of the pick-and-roll and on drives to the rim.
Defensively, Lewis will need to add strength. More muscle would also, ideally, improve his efficiency at the rim. Even so, his raw athleticism, high I.Q., and well-documented personality all bode well for NBA success. He’d be great value for New York at No. 8.