NBADraft
2026 NBA Mock Draft: Expert Predictions and Top Prospects Emerge
As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches, basketball enthusiasts and analysts are abuzz with predictions for the next generation of talent. With dra...
about 24 hours ago
NBADraft
Knicks Missed Out on Donovan Mitchell: Pitino Reveals Why
7 months agoUS
Legendary college coach Rick Pitino revealed that he advised the New York Knicks to draft Donovan Mitchell in 2017. The Knicks, however, passed on Mitchell, a decision that is now considered a significant misstep.
Key Insights
•
Rick Pitino, Mitchell's college coach, urged the Knicks to draft him.
•
The Knicks chose Frank Ntilikina over Mitchell in the 2017 draft.
•
Mitchell has become a six-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection.
•
Ntilikina is considered a draft bust, having played in Europe after a lackluster NBA career.
•
The Knicks have since rebuilt their roster but missed out on having Mitchell.
In-Depth Analysis
In 2017, the Knicks had the No. 8 overall pick and the opportunity to draft Donovan Mitchell, who was playing for Rick Pitino at Louisville. Pitino shared on the Roommates Show that he called the Knicks to advocate for Mitchell. However, the Knicks were hesitant to draft Mitchell so high and instead selected Frank Ntilikina. Mitchell was then drafted by the Utah Jazz at No. 13.
Mitchell has had a successful NBA career with the Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming a multiple-time All-Star. Ntilikina, on the other hand, struggled in the NBA and now plays in Europe. While the Knicks have since built a competitive team, missing out on Mitchell remains a notable draft error.
FAQs
•
Q: Why didn't the Knicks draft Donovan Mitchell?
They felt he was too risky of a pick at No. 8.
•
Q: What has Donovan Mitchell accomplished in the NBA?
He is a six-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection.
Key Takeaways
•
The Knicks missed a significant opportunity by not drafting Donovan Mitchell.
•
Draft decisions can have long-lasting impacts on team success.
•
Donovan Mitchell has become one of the NBA's top players since being drafted outside the top 10.
Discussion
Do you think the Knicks would be a championship contender if they had drafted Donovan Mitchell? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Related Articles
NBADraft
Thunder Eyeing Draft Moves for Boozer and Lendeborg
The Oklahoma City Thunder, fresh off a championship-winning season, are strategically planning for the future. With the NBA Draft approachin...
16 days ago
NBADraft
AJ Dybantsa Makes His Case for No. 1 Pick in NBA Draft
AJ Dybantsa is making a strong push to be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, showcasing his skills and confidence at the NBA Draft Co...
24 days ago
NBADraft
Wizards Respond to Stephen A. Smith's 'Abomination' Label After Draft Lottery Win
Despite winning the NBA Draft Lottery and securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Washington Wizards are facing harsh cri...
about 1 month ago
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer