What if RJ Barrett isn't available at No. 3 for the Knicks?
With rumors swirling that the Grizzlies weren't so committed to picking Ja Morant with the second pick, ESPN reported Saturday morning that the Murray State point guard will undergo surgery to clean up debris from his right knee.
It's a minor surgery for the 19-year-old with an expected recovery within a month, but the news arrived as the Grizzlies were reportedly waiting for a private workout with Barrett and "sending out mixed messages" about their commitment to Morant.
The Knicks, of course, pick third and will be in position for the Morant and Barrett leftover. After Zion Williamson _ who will be picked first by the Pelicans _ Morant and Barrett are the clear top prospects.
The Knicks are in a unique position heading into the draft because there's so much at stake in free agency. If Kevin Durant signs, the franchise immediately shifts into a win-now window. It's why, as they Daily News reported, they're keen on trading for Anthony Davis.
Part of the problem with any strategy the Knicks employ at the draft is that it occurs 10 days before free agency. So the best they can get from Durant or any free agent is a verbal commitment (technically, they can't even get that because it's tampering).
But assuming the Knicks sign Durant and acquire another max free agent _ like Kyrie Irving, for instance _ there are concerns about Barrett's fit. He is a ball-dominant player who, at times, was apathetic on defense last season with Duke. He's the type of player you give the ball to carry the team. His ceiling comparison is James Harden. That's not the best 19-year-old teammate for Durant.
Morant also dominated the ball in college and could have issues next to Durant, which could be why the Knicks are reportedly toying with the idea of trading the pick to pick up more assets and move lower in the draft.
The Knicks have a lot of things in the air. It's going to be a crazy time from the draft on June 20 through free agency in the beginning of July. Buckle up.
