The Knicks lost their first pick to the Nuggets in the Carmelo Anthony trade, but with their first second rounder, they essentially got a first round pick with Early. He likely fell because of his age (23) and the fact he will be converting from power forward to small, though given his althelticism this is a minor concern. That athleticism helps Early be really good in transition and finishing at the rim, while also being able to step out and shoot from deep. His upside is limited because of his age, but Early should provide shooting, defense, and some athletic plays every game, though any in between offensive game may be too much to ask for.
51. Thanasis Antetokounmpo, SF NBDL (6-6, 205)
Anteokokounmpo is very athletic, plays really hard, and should be an eabive-average defender, however he likely is being drafted simply because of his brother. He'd still get a chance, but probably wouldn't be drafted, if not for Giannis. He'll likely continue to play in the D-League, where his offense, particularly shooting, will have to improve if he wants to make an impact at the next level. It is simply an uphill battle for wing players with no offense to make a roster, they need to be world class defenders, which I don't think Antetokounmpo is at this point.
57. Louis Labyrie, C France (6-10, 200)
Given the cap strapped nature of the Knicks roster, it is not shocking they elected to go with a D-Leaguer and an International prospect with two of their three picks. This allows these young players to develop without taking money away from the main roster. The issue with these picks is that neither Antetokounmpo or Louis Labyrie is particularly young (21 and 22, respectively) or have a ton of upside. Labyrie is skinny and athletic, but without much appreciable skill to speak of. I would doubt he ever sees the NBA.
Projected Lineup
PG: Jose Calderon/Pablo Prigioni
SG: Iman Shumpert/J.R. Smith
SF: Cleanthony Early/Tim Hardaway Jr.
PF: Andrea Bargnani/Amar'e Stoudemire
C: Samuel Dalembert/Jeremy Tyler
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