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We have our first new Knick! The Knicks have selected Cleanthony Early with the 34th pick.
Early is a forward (small or power) from Wichita State University, born in Middletown, New York. He's a fairly older guy for a rookie at 23 years old, but according to his DraftExpress profile, he's an efficient tweener. Here's more from his SB Nation write-up:
Early began his collegiate career has a star at Sullivan County Community College, where he was a two-time Division III NJCAA Player of the Year. Early then signed on to play with Gregg Marshall at Wichita State.
Early enjoyed a solid first season with the Shockers, and he was even better as a senior. The 23-year-old averaged 16.3 points and 6.0 rebounds on the season, shooting 48.7 percent overall and 37.6 percent from three. Early was especially good in the NCAA Tournament, scoring 54 points in two games, including 31 in a superb performance against Kentucky.
Early boasts explosive athleticism, posting a 40-inch max vertical at the draft combine. However, there are some questions about Early's position at the next level. He's not the most advanced ball handler for a wing player, and he lacks ideal strength to play down low. The fact that he's 23 also may limit his upside.
The Knicks were out of the draft just a day ago, but picked up two second-rounders in the trade sending Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton to Dallas. Sit tight for the Knicks to make their second selection of the night with the 51st pick.
We'll have more on Early after the draft. For now: