Sources: 2 Knicks draft targets to keep an eye on…With the 2025 NBA Draft just around the corner, league insiders are beginning to connect the dots between team needs and potential draft targets. For the New York Knicks, fresh off a playoff run that highlighted both promise and some glaring roster gaps, the upcoming draft offers a chance to add complementary talent. According to league sources, the Knicks are seriously evaluating two high-upside prospects: Ron Holland (G League Ignite) and Tyler Smith (G League Ignite). 1. Ron Holland – Wing, G League Ignite Why He’s a Fit: Holland, a 6’8” wing with elite athleticism and defensive versatility, checks many of the boxes New York is reportedly looking for—size, switchability, and two-way upside. With OG Anunoby’s future still somewhat uncertain in free agency, the Knicks are rumored to be exploring insurance options on the wing. Sources close to the team indicate that New York was one of several franchises that interviewed Holland during the draft combine, and scouts from the Knicks front office were seen courtside during several G League Ignite games late in the season. Holland’s motor, defensive instincts, and transition game make him a strong candidate to contribute early, even if his offensive polish is still in progress. Stat Snapshot (2024-25 G League): 14.7 PPG 6.1 RPG 1.8 SPG 44.5% FG 2. Tyler Smith – Forward, G League Ignite Why He’s a Fit: At 6’11” with a smooth left-handed shooting stroke, Tyler Smith is emerging as a sleeper lottery pick with serious modern-NBA potential. Smith is drawing attention for his ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and run the floor—all critical needs for a Knicks frontcourt that struggled with spacing and depth behind Julius Randle and Isaiah Hartenstein (a free agent this summer). Sources tell The Athletic that Knicks President Leon Rose and head coach Tom Thibodeau both value Smith’s blend of size and finesse, especially as the team considers a long-term vision that emphasizes pace and offensive versatility. Stat Snapshot (2024-25 G League): 16.2 PPG 5.8 RPG 1.5 BPG 36.7% from three Draft Strategy Outlook The Knicks currently own the No. 24 and No. 25 overall picks, positioning them to either move up in a trade or take a swing on a developmental prospect. Front office insiders suggest that if a player like Holland or Smith falls within reach—perhaps late in the lottery or early teens—New York could look to package picks or a young asset to move up. While names like Isaiah Collier and Cody Williams have also floated in pre-draft conversations, Holland and Smith have emerged as priority watch-list targets in recent internal meetings, sources say. Final Thoughts The Knicks’ current roster is playoff-tested but still in need of young legs and shooting. Both Holland and Smith offer different but intriguing skill sets that align with the team’s goals of building a sustainable contender. As the draft draws closer, expect New York to stay active—and aggressive—in their pursuit of talent that fits Thibodeau’s system and the franchise’s evolving identity. For more Knicks draft coverage and live updates, follow ChatGPT Sports on Twitter @ChatGPT_Sports.
With the 2025 NBA Draft just around the corner, league insiders are beginning to connect…
