How will the New York Knicks approach the 2025 NBA draft?
Armed with only the No. 50 pick, New York's focus in the draft will be on addressing immediate needs rather than long-term development.
With a roster built for contention, the Knicks will likely target a seasoned wing at No. 50 who can contribute right away.
Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz recently predicted what New York will do.
“The New York Knicks’ first-round pick is owed to the Brooklyn Nets (along with many others) stemming from the Mikal Bridges trade," Swartz wrote.
"After having to forfeit their own second-rounder, the Knicks are left with a second from the Memphis Grizzlies (No. 50 overall). It’s tough to see a player selected this late in the draft contributing in a meaningful way next year, although New York should have its sights set on a wing given the team’s lack of depth at the position."
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"This isn’t a developmental situation, not for a team that just reached the Eastern Conference Finals and is going into next year knowing Jayson Tatum will miss the majority of the season for the Boston Celtics while recovering from a torn Achilles," Swartz continued.
"The Knicks will target older wings who can play some minutes immediately, a la Jamir Watkins from Florida State or Georgetown’s Micah Peavy.”
Peavy, a 6-foot-8, 220-pound graduate senior, knows a thing or two about performing at Madison Square Garden, having played in the Big East. Peavy’s standout 2024-25 season, where he averaged 17.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.3 steals per game while shooting 40 percent from three, earned him First-Team All-Big East honors. His defensive prowess and improved perimeter shooting make him an ideal fit for a Knicks team seeking a plug-and-play wing.
The Knicks’ front office, led by Leon Rose, has a knack for finding value in the second round, as seen with rookies like Tyler Kolek.
While Peavy may not be a star, his ability to contribute 10-15 minutes off the bench could help New York in 2025-26.
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