Knicks 2026 NBA Draft grades for every pick

The New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA Draft was about as unorthodox as can be expected. They entered the first round with the 24th overall pick. They also owned the 31st and 55th overall picks in the second round. But drafting in their spots is far too simple a strategy for Leon Rose and co. And to be fair, the Knicks major focus this offseason is remaining under the second apron. Not adding young stars.

Still, New York came into the draft with hopes of limiting the addition of guaranteed salaries. They also seemed to prefer the possibility of adding future picks or players who might help in 2026-27 and beyond. Thus, the Knicks turned their draft night plans on their head. And they accomplished most, if not all, of their goals.

Pick 24, traded: Grade — B

New York wasted little time getting into its draft night hysteria. First, they traded the 24th pick to the Los Angeles Lakers for the 25th pick and cash considerations. The Knicks then used the 25th pick to select Sergio De Larrea, a Spanish guard playing in Liga ACB. But if you thought they were going to keep De Larrea, you’d be mistaken. New York turned around and traded De Larrea for the 30th pick and two second-round picks. They then traded the 30th pick (Koa Peat) to the Phoenix Suns for three second-round picks and additional cash considerations.

So, long story short, the Knicks successfully added future assets—which may be important to their ability to remain below the second apron come this time next year—and avoided adding any guaranteed salary for 2026-27. While no players were actually added, the Knicks received a “B” for avoiding any future salary commitments.

Picks 31, 55, traded: Grade — B+

The Knicks wasted even less time in making moves in the second round. Before the draft even kicked off, New York traded the 31st and 55th overall picks to the Houston Rockets for the 39th and 53rd picks, as well as the Sacramento Kings’ 2029 second-round pick. This move is largely positive given the cheap assets it may add over the next few years, hence the “B+”.

Pick 39, Jack Kayil, G, Alba Berlin: Grade — B

New York ultimately selected Jack Kayil, a 20-year-old German guard who played professionally for Alba Berlin in the German Bundesliga. He averaged 12.3 points and 3.5 assists per game last season.