This would be a very Knicks-like move if they end up actually selecting this guy in the NBA Draft later this month.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN, New York is "serious" on considering drafting Murray State point guard Cameron Payne, likely having them trade down from their No. 4 selection.
League sources with knowledge of the team’s thinking say the Knicks are doing more than their due diligence by working out Payne; they are “serious” about considering him in the draft, those sources say.
Payne is widely viewed as a player who will be taken in the middle-to-late first round. So the Knicks’ interest in Payne and, to a lesser degree, their interest in Willie Cauley-Stein, is a sign that they are at least considering trading down from No. 4.
Both Knicks president Phil Jackson and GM Steve Mills have said that the organization would consider all of its options with the pick, including the possibility of trading down.
Payne has received a promise from the Oklahoma City Thunder at No. 14. I also heard the Indiana Pacers are high on him, too.
It would make sense if they trade down for Payne if they are serious on him. However, if you have the luxury of taking a guy like Trey Lyles, Emmanuel Mudiay or others at No. 4, why take the chance on Payne?
Don't even think about it, Phil Jackson.
