After drafting RJ Barrett with their first-round pick last year, the New York Knicks could be going with a similarly-named pick again this year.
Marc Berman of the New York Post reported on Tuesday that 19-year-old guard prospect RJ Hampton is under consideration by the Knicks if they pick between the No. 6 and No. 10 range in the draft. Berman adds that new Knicks president Leon Rose “strongly pursued” Hampton as a client when he was an agent at Creative Artists Agency.
Hampton, who averaged 8.8 points and 2.4 assists in 20.6 minutes per game last season, carries a bit of uncertainty because he played professionally in New Zealand after skipping college. There are also some questions about his ability to play point guard, which is where the Knicks have a greater need.
Recent reports suggest that Hampton might fall out of the lottery altogether. But with the Knicks also holding a late first-round pick this year thanks to the Marcus Morris trade with the LA Clippers, they should have plenty of opportunity to snag Hampton if they determine that he is their man.
