NBA Draft 2011: Why Brandon Knight Is the Most Promising Player in the Draft
Brandon Knight is a huge reason the Kentucky Wildcats are having so much success this year.
Why can't this success translate into the NBA?
Knight has everything a coach could want in a PG. He has a ton of potential, but isn't a work in progress like many potential-filled players in this draft are (eg. Perry Jones, Jonas Valuncianas).
He can make an immediate impact in the NBA, and I personally believe he shouldn't drop out of the Top- 10 in this year's draft.
1. Skill
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Knight has a complete package when it comes to his fundamentals/skills.
He can shoot, he can drive, he has a nasty crossover, and he is one of the best one-on-one players in the nation.
He has range on his shot and can stop and pop on a dime.
He can take it hard to the rim, where he finishes with the best of them, or he can pull up from mid-range and knock down a jumper.
He blows by defenders with ease, and he has good control of the ball on the move.
2. Defense
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Knight is a tenacious defender.
He uses a mix of size and athleticism to lock down opposing players. He also moves his feet well, and is a master at picking pockets.
His athleticism will also snag him a couple weak side blocks here and there, and he also plays the passing lanes well.
His defense will be key to his success in the NBA, as coaches love playing a guy who can play solid defense and limit another team's floor general.
The point guard position is one of the most crucial to defend, and Knight is a master at defending it.
3. Variety of Offensive Tools
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Knight has one interesting intangible that many overlook. He can play in both a fast paced offense like that of the New York Knicks, or he can slow it down in a half court set.
He uses his deceptive speed well on the break. Added to his speed are his abilities to finish, and his amazing court vision on the go.
He finds teammates well on the break, and knows how to handle running an up-tempo offense.
In an half court set, he takes advantage of his shooting and his one-on-one play. As he takes his man off the dribble, defenses collapse and he can use his play making to find open teammates.
He can also play off the ball as well, allowing a point-forward to take over the offense and run it.
4. He's Taking Lessons from One of the Best
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John Calipari is one of the best mentors for young point guards.
He has coached some of the best current NBA point guards, including Tyreke Evans, Derrick Rose and John Wall.
What's interesting about Knight's situation is that he is a better shooter than all of them.
He also thrives in Calipari's dribble-drive offense, and so did those other three.
Where are they today?
Derrick Rose is the clear MVP of the NBA right now.
Tyreke Evans is the reigning Rookie of the Year.
John Wall is playing at an All-Star level in his first season, racking up buckets and assists. (This is surprising because of the lack of talent on his team.)
Knight is next in line.
