With the NBA regular season in the rearview mirror, front offices across the league are already strategizing for the future. For teams whose playoff hopes have ended, that future starts with the 2026 NBA Draft. As scouts finalize their boards and prospects declare, the picture of the next rookie class is coming into focus.

The draft order will be set after the lottery on May 10th in Chicago, immediately followed by the crucial draft combine. For a team like the New York Knicks, who are projected to be a playoff contender, their focus will be on finding value later in the first round.

According to the latest projections, the Knicks are slated to pick at No. 24. Based on current draft order simulations, one name linked to New York is Chris Cenac Jr., the versatile big man from Houston. A former five-star recruit, Cenac Jr. showcased his potential on the biggest stage during March Madness. He erupted for a season-high 18 rebounds in the tournament opener and followed it up with a 17-point performance in the Round of 32, demonstrating impressive mobility and scoring touch for his size. While his consistency was up and down during the collegiate season, his peak performances highlight the kind of high-ceiling talent that could thrive in the Knicks' system, providing frontcourt depth and modern skills.