The New York Knicks have finished last place the NBA in blocked shots the past seasons. 6″8″ F Wilson Chandler led the team in blocks (75) while playing in 82 games. UCONN Center Hasheem Thabeet recorded 136 blocks in 36 games last season. The Junior finished second in the nation blocking 4.2 shots per game. He also finished 12th in rebounding with 10.8 per game.

There has been previous history in trading up to draft a big man. While with the Pacers, Donnie Walsh traded up to the number two spot to select Rik Smits, 21 years ago. The 7′4″ center had a productive 12-year NBA career with averages of 14.9 points 6.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. 

The 7″3″ Thabeet has been compared to Dikembe Mutombo and Samuel Dalembert. His value comes from his defensive ability, but his offensive game has improved for the Huskies. He also is a good rebounder who runs the floor well. His scoring increased by three points from his sophomore to junior season. Walsh interviewed the 22-year old last week at the NBA Draft combine in Chicago. Shot blocking is the Knicks biggest need which makes Thabeet an intriguing prospect.