Quentin Grimes could be considered a Knicks backup plan after New York traded back to select the two-way guard at 25th overall, but many consider the Houston junior a potentially underrated selection.
While Leon Rose and company were hoping for other shooting wings to fall to 19th overall, or an opportunity to trade up, Grimes is still a solid alternative, and the 6-foot-4 shooting guard will look to prove that as a rookie.
"I'm trying to come in and have an immediate impact," Grimes said. "I definitely have high expectations, not only for myself but for the team. I feel like right now, with what the Knicks are doing, I feel like we're gonna have a special season."
Grimes could bring some much-needed 3-point shooting to the Knicks, as he was one of just three players in the NCAA last year to sink 100 triples, and he shot 40 percent from downtown in the process. With the Cougars reaching the Final Four earlier this year, Grimes also brings experience in playing under the bright lights, which will only grow brighter when he takes the floor at Madison Square Garden.
"It's indescribable," Grimes said. "I woke up with a big smile on my face just knowing I'm playing at the World's Most Famous Arena for 41 games out of the season. I'm kind of at a loss of words right now, to be honest."
Grimes also carries a defensive upside to his game, which should please the defensive-minded Tom Thibodeau, Grimes' next basketball mentor. Between Thibodeau, The Garden and the Knicks' current trajectory, Grimes believes he's in prime position to succeed in the NBA.
"I want to learn everything I get and take everything on the chin," Grimes said. "I want nothing handed to me. I feel like that's the kind of guy Thibs wants to coach and Thibs wants. I feel like it's a match made in heaven."
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