Kentucky forward Malachi Moreno attends pre-draft workout with New York Knicks ahead of May 27 declaration deadline
Moreno joins a group of high-profile prospects including Elliot Cadeau and Donavan Atwell in a session with the Knicks, though the decision to enter the NBA Draft remains unconfirmed.
Kentucky forward Malachi Moreno participated in a pre-draft workout with the New York Knicks on Tuesday, joining a roster of prospects that included Donavan Atwell, Elliot Cadeau, and Jackson Paveletzke. The session took place at the Knicks' facility, providing the New York franchise with an opportunity to evaluate the Kentucky freshman alongside other elite talent vying for professional contracts.
Although the prevailing sentiment among observers suggests that Moreno will return to Lexington for the 2026-27 season, the decision remains officially unconfirmed. The deadline for the player to formally declare for the NBA Draft or retain his collegiate eligibility is set for May 27. Until that date, Moreno is technically testing the draft waters while maintaining his status as a student-athlete.
Recent analysis has positioned Moreno as a potential early second-round pick, with specific projections placing him as the 31st overall selection to the Knicks. However, these figures represent speculative media estimates rather than official offers or guarantees. The projection is subject to change based on further evaluations and the evolving needs of NBA franchises.
Moreno enters this process following a strong freshman campaign where he started 30 of 36 games for the Wildcats. His statistical output included averages of 7.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.8 blocks per game, alongside a field goal percentage of 58.2 percent. His performance was highlighted by a buzzer-beater against Louisiana State in mid-January, a play credited with saving the team's season.
The workout also featured Elliot Cadeau from Michigan, a national champion, and other notable prospects. Reports confirm the attendance of these players through league sources, underscoring the competitive nature of the event. For Moreno, the session serves as a final assessment of his readiness for the professional level before the critical May 27 deadline forces a definitive choice between the NBA and further collegiate play.
