Knicks Rumors: Mikal Bridges the 'Favorite' for NY at No. 9 in 2018 NBA Draft
The New York Knicks are reportedly eyeing Villanova wing Mikal Bridges as "the favorite" for the No. 9 overall pick, according to Marc Berman of the New York Post.
While highly regarded prospect Michael Porter Jr. could potentially slide down to No. 9, New York is reportedly getting "cold feet" on the Missouri product based on his injury history.
The Knicks have also looked extensively at Kentucky forward Kevin Knox, and they were reportedly "very impressed" by his recent workout, per Ian Begley of ESPN.com.
John Schmeelk of WFAN 660 predicted the Knicks would select either Knox or Bridges if Porter Jr., Wendell Carter Jr. and Trae Young are unavailable. Meanwhile, Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman projected the Knicks to land Bridges in his latest mock draft.
Bridges was a key part of Villanova's run to a national championship this season, averaging 17.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. At 6'7" with great athleticism, he projects to be a steady three-and-D player in the NBA.
"He's complete as a player and as a person," Wildcats head coach Jay Wright said about Bridges, per Al Iannazzone of Newsday. "Off the court, he's really high character, he's intelligent, he's a leader. On the court he's complete as a player. He defends really well and takes pride in his defense. He's a great rebounder from the guard position, offensively and defensively. He shoots the ball well, is good in pick-and-roll and has got great basketball IQ."
Wright also noted the Knicks have "done as much homework as anybody" on Bridges.
If New York does pull the trigger on Bridges during Thursday's NBA draft, it shouldn't come as a surprise.
