The Knicks had two picks in the span of three spots in the 2021 NBA Draft - and didn't use either.
After numerous reported attempts to trade up for a higher pick, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that New York dealt its 19th overall pick to the Hornets for a future first-round pick, and then dealt No. 21 to the Clippers for No. 25 and a 2024 second-rounder via Detroit.
The Knicks technically made both picks, selecting Texas forward Kai Jones at 19 for Charlotte and Tennessee guard Keon Johnson at 21 for Los Angeles.
The Knicks were hoping to grab a wing with their first pick, but most were off the board by the time they were on the clock; according to SNY's Ian Begley, the Knicks "checked in on teams near Indiana at No. 13 today with Chris Duarte in mind," and "also liked Corey Kispert, Trey Murphy III, and Tre Mann, who were off the board by 19."
The Knicks then decided to grab another future asset, sliding down four spots from 21 to 25 to pick up a 2024 second-rounder. The team will have that 25th pick, plus the 32nd and 58th picks in the second round, to work with in what is a pivotal draft for the franchise, as it tries to build upon its surprising playoff berth last season.
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