Despite Contrasting Rumors, LaMelo Ball Confirms Interest From Knicks and Warriors Ahead of NBA Draft

The New York Knicks fans haven’t had much to look forward to this season. But in the next month, they could see their team draft a top prospect with their #8 overall pick.

Recently there were rumors that the Knicks were looking to trade down. They felt that the prospects they liked, James Wiseman and LaMelo Ball, would be snatched away from them. The Warriors were also rumored to be not interested in him. But Ball revealed yesterday that the Knicks are one of the only two teams who have been in contact with him.

While making an appearance on ESPN’s Jalen & Jacoby show, Ball said, “I think I’ve (met) with just two teams, the Knicks and Warriors. That was just like a little Zoom call.”

Can Ball complement the Splash Brothers?

Earlier, there were rumors that the Warriors were interested in Ball. But then their lack of a dominant paint presence led to rumors that they would pick James Wiseman. The Memphis Tigers’ freshman is the best center available in the draft. so he can boost the big man department at Golden State.

Drafting Ball would mean either he or Andrew Wiggins get benched. The Warriors don’t need another ball-handler with Stephen Curry already. Ball’s effectiveness off the ball is questionable and at 25% from deep, he isn’t the best perimeter shooter. So although the Warriors have shown interest, they should rather pick someone who is a better fit.

Will the Knicks get their man?

The 2020 Draft class doesn’t have a clear first overall pick. But Ball has been among the top prospects for a while. He was primed to be drafted top three, but now that is doubtful.

Going down the draft order, #1 overall Timberwolves look likely to pick Anthony Edwards due to their poor wing depth. The Warriors, Hornets, Bulls, Cavaliers, and Hawks already have enough ball heavy guards which leave the Knicks with just one team to worry about: The Pistons at #7.

The Knicks will have to hope that the Pistons pass on Ball or they will have to trade up to snatch him away from Detroit. The Knicks desperately need a player like Ball, so they should try to trade up for him.