Despite a quick start to the offseason, things have cooled off lately, and that's why there hasn't been a whole lot of talk on here lately. So anyway, here's some comments on some of the minor stories over the last couple of months:
Rashard Lewis is probably the biggest recent story, as he has been found to have an illegal substance in something he took. It's understandable that this may have been an error, but when you're making as much money as Lewis is (much more than he really deserves, even though he is a very good player), you had better be careful to know every last thing you're putting into your body. He does get respect though for saying that he understands and accepts the suspension that he is getting.
Ramon Sessions still hasn't found a home, despite practically seeming to have agreed to terms with half of the teams in the league at this point. Honestly, it's time for the rumors to stop going and for sites to just wait until a signing actually happens before they say anything anymore. He's a good player, without a doubt, but that's when he's on. His inconsistency really makes him much less of a player than all the attention is making him seem.
Summer league was fun to watch. As a Bulls fan it was great to see James Johnson showing so much promise. His jumper went through a bit of a tough stretch, but his shooting stroke is almost picture perfect and he also showed the ability to be able to take over games when called upon, which won't be something that'll make a difference in the next year or two, but could be helpful after that. Taj Gibson showed some good scrappy play that should at least help him to stay on the team for a while. Going beyond the Bulls though, Blake Griffin showed why he was a #1 pick. Brandon Jennings looked great at times and horrible at other times. Jennings will likely put up some great stats, but not actually make his team too much better. DeMar DeRozan looks like he's still raw, but that promise is clearly there. Hasheem Thabeet doesn't look very good at all right now and has huge bust potential. However, chances are that he'll at least be a good defender. James Harden looks very good for the Thunder, bringing a good all-around game. The last one we'll go over right now is Tyreke Evans, who is showing a great ability to score, but still doesn't make sense as the draft pick for a team that needed a point guard, not a shooting guard, especially when Rubio was right there (and likely would've actually come to the NBA if the Kings had picked him).
Michael Beasley has checked into drug rehab. I really think this is being made into a bigger deal than it really is, but you have to give respect to the guy for actually recognizing a problem and making the decision to do something about it rather than just letting it get worse.
Back to Ricky Rubio, so he's drafted by a team that picks another point guard right after him. That's the reason he's using for not being eager to come to the NBA right now. However, you can't actually believe that the kid isn't being a diva either and upset about going to Minnesota. Nothing ticks me off more about people who are drafted than when they try to pick and choose which teams they play for. They're going to be playing in the top league in the world and making very good money. Many regular workers out there only have so much say as to where they get to work, and they don't make a fraction of the money that Rubio is going to make. The kid should either suck it up and play where he's been drafted to without whining about it or just stay out of the NBA. Kobe was a jerk for doing it, Mayo was a baby for saying he wouldn't play for certain teams, John Elway and Eli Manning were both losers when they did it as well. Just shut up and play.
Stephen Jackson supposedly wants out of Golden State. With the state of things there, I can't blame him.
Okay, that's it for now. As more stories come in there will be more commentary on them.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
What were they thinking? The NBA Draft
This is basically going over every pick in this past NBA draft from last night and give you an idea of the rationalization of the picks. This will just be the first round since it's really a struggle at times to find out any real rationalization with the second round when you consider that many of those players won't even see playing time in the NBA. So here it goes:
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin
Could there be anything more obvious? Above and beyond the rest as far as talent goes.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Hasheem Thabeet
With Marc Gasol there it's a little harder to understand this pick. Gasol's not a bad defender by any means, but by how they talked about Thabeet bringing down low defense to the Grizzlies you'd think that he was the worst defender at the 5 that the league has ever seen. Thabeet will bring little to no offense to the Grizzlies, but there is no doubt that he'll make it almost impossible for other teams to score down low, especially if he's on the floor at the same time as Gasol.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden
With Russell Westbrook already there as your point guard of the future, passing up on the second best talent in the draft in Rubio. James Harden is an all-around point guard. He's someone who can hurt the other team in so many ways, through his defense, his shooting, his driving, or his passing. He'll always be able to give you whatever you need when you need it. As far as talent, yes, Rubio is better, but Harden is the better total fit and will make the team better than Rubio would.
4. Sacramento Kings - Tyreke Evans
Well, the Kings needed a point guard badly, and even though there was one with more talent available, they got a very good future point guard in Evans, even if he is more of a combo guard. However, I guess there's something in his style that Sacramento likes more, since he does have a different type of game than Rubio.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ricky Rubio
This was beyond obvious at this point. Overdue for Rubio.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves -Jonny Flynn
This is a lot harder to justify. The Timberwolves said that they're planning on keeping both Rubio and Flynn, so it looks like they're expecting Rubio to go back to Spain for a year or two and will allow Flynn to grow into good trade bait during that time, or they're going to use Rubio as bait to trade to a team that needs a point guard. Either way, a trade will eventually go down, only that they're not saying it so that the players involved don't lose value.
7. Golden State Warriors - Stephen Curry
Immediate reactions has to be asking how Curry and Ellis will fit together, but when you look at how you score their points, Curry by shooting and Ellis by slashing, you realize that on offense it makes perfect sense. The Warriors have never cared about defense, so that's not an issue. Also, supposedly there's an Amare Stoudemire trade about to go down that Curry will have to be a part of, but there's also rumors that the trade is dead.
8. New York Knicks - Jordan Hill
The Warriors picking Curry actually saved the Knicks from making a bad pick here. While Curry is very good and would look very good in D'Antoni's offense, Jordan Hill will wind up being even better. He brings some defense to the 4 spot for the Knicks as well as a versatile offensive game that just needs to be refined some more. The Knicks are going to love having this guy in the future.
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan
This was an obvious pick at this point. DeRozan is loaded with potential and has drawn many comparisons to former Raptor Vince Carter. While he might never realize that potential, the potential that he does have is too high for him to not be picked here.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings
His attitude seems to be pretty immature still, there's no doubt about that, but there's also no doubt that the kid has pretty amazing talent. If he can just play with his head as well he could wind up being a superstar.
11. New Jersey Nets - Terrence Williams
The Nets struck gold last year with Brook Lopez. They also traded Vince Carter in what seemed mostly like a salary dump right before the draft. In the trade they picked up Courtney Lee, a draft pick by the Magic a year ago who has established himself as a strong perimeter defender and a solid offensive player despite being most known for missing what would've been a game winning lay-in during the finals. Either way, they picked up Williams likely to play the small forward spot, which was a horrible weakness last year after trading away Richard Jefferson.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson
The fact that Jordan was able to allow his team to pick a Duke player is amazing enough. Henderson brings almost the perfect guy to replace Raja Bell. A tough defender, but Henderson is better at driving and more athletic, so he may bring an extra dimension that Bell doesn't bring and could actually the the starting 2 by the start of next season.
13. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough
Some fans gave a lot of heat to the Pacers front office for this pick, but Hansbrought gives them exactly what they need up front. They need energy and toughness up front, as Hibbert and Nesterovic provide neither right now and Murphy provides no energy and barely toughness. Hansbrough is going to breathe new life into that front line and he has the skill and drive to actually wind up starting in the future.
14. Phoenix Suns - Earl Clark
Tons of talent here, his potential is through the roof. The Suns took a home run swing here, and if it pays off they could, with the right moves otherwise, be right back to where they were only a few years ago within half a decade.
15. Detroit Pistons - Austin Daye
A bit of a surprise pick. Daye is very tall and long, but he's under 200 pounds. While due to length he can play power forward for most teams, for Detroit, a team that prides itself on it's rough and physical defense, he's not someone who you can play there. He's clearly a project there, and if he can wind up bulking up he might be able to play some 4 there, but he might be even better fit at the 2 than the 4. With Prince there you really don't put him at the 3. This could be a future trade move too.
16. Chicago Bulls - James Johnson
Getting a guy that could've gone 7 picks earlier, the Bulls got a steal here. Anyone complaining about this pick just simply do not make any sense. He's a player who can easily play either the 3 or the 4. He's very strong and brings both toughness down low and on the perimeter. He has developed himself a very good jump shot out to 3 point range and has a game that despite being physical, is silky smooth. Just take Andres Nocioni, a former favorite in Chicago. Add on plenty of athleticism and a more consistent jumper. Throw in a smooth game and more size to add to the physical style, and there you go. This was an excellent pick for the Bulls.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Jrue Holiday
He didn't fall as far as he could have, but he did fall enough to draw some attention for falling in a draft that seemed to have falling as a common theme. Holiday has a ton of potential, but no one really knows why. He doesn't have much of a jumper, he plays like a combo guard, and his health is an issue. However, there's just something about him that makes teams think that he can wind up being really good, and there's a good chance that they can be right. Great pick by the Sixers, who may likely lose Andre Miller this offseason. Holiday will be no less than adequate for filling in.
18. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ty Lawson
Okay, not so fast. Yeah, it's a third point guard that the T-Wolves drafted, almost like they're trying to make history by drafting so many point guards, but this pick was traded to the Nuggets for a future first round pick. Supposedly the Wolves wanted James Johnson, but when the Bulls picked him they didn't want this pick anymore and that's why the trade was made. Lawson will be an excellent backup for the Nuggets and will provide a player that brings something different than what Billups brings, making him even harder to guard.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jeff Teague
When they drafted Acie Law a couple of years ago you thought they wouldn't need to be targeting point guards anymore, but that didn't work out. So they traded for Bibby. However, Bibby's not young by any means and could very well be wanting more than what the Hawks can spend, so they go after Jeff Teague, a point guard who isn't entirely a true point guard, but who can shoot the ball. With the depth of this year's point guard crop, even though it's this low, Teague could be the guy who ends the pursuit for a while.
20. Utah Jazz - Eric Maynor
More of an all-around point guard, if Williams has any injury problems from here on out, the Jazz know that they have someone to back him up that won't allow the team to fall to mediocrity.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Darren Collison
Looking even worse without Paul than the Jazz looked without Williams, the Hornets had the same idea, making for the third point guard drafted in a row, but Collison is another very good one, bringing some very good defense along with a solid offensive game from all angles.
22. Portland Trailblazers - Victor Claver
A potential pick, he's a very athletic 3/4 type of guy. It's a good pick, because the Blazers are a pretty stacked team, and they can afford to pick a project. This is a guy who could have a high reward, but also could likely never really ever amount to much.
23. Sacramento Kings - Omri Casspi
This is a good pick in that it at least gives the Kings someone to challenge Francisco Garcia for the starting spot at the 3. Casspi is ready to play right now and will at least be able to back Garcia up very well.
24. Dallas Mavericks - Byron Mullens
Now he's Byron, not BJ. Either way, he's actually a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder right now. The Thunder already have what's looking to shape up as a scary lineup with Westbrook, Harden, Durant, and Green. With Kristic at the 5 they were looking good, but if Mullens can develop into the center that he has the ability to develop into, then the Thunder can just plain flat out be scary.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Rodrigue Beaubois
The other half of the Mullens trade, the Mavs get a future point guard. Both him and Mullens are players that are very high reward, but high risk. If Beaubois fills his potential out, then the Mavs have nothing to worry about when it comes to losing Kidd.
26. Chicago Bulls - Taj Gibson
He's drawn comparisons to guys like Joe Smith and Vin Baker. If he can play like those guys then this is a SERIOUS steal for the Bulls here. He's got a refined offensive game with good versatility on that end and can block shots like it's nothing on the defensive end. I can't think of much more you could ask for at this point in the draft. Sure, they could've gone for DeJuan Blair, but Blair is a very high risk player and his reward is not nearly high enough to go after him at this point. Those who bring up guys like Paul Millsap tend to forget that Blair has nothing that resembles a jump shot.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - DeMarre Carroll
He may have liver disease, but he can play. Drafted as a backup he could wind up being a very strong player off the bench for a very long time.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Wayne Ellington
It's not a point guard!!! It almost seems like Ellington is being brought in to fill Mike Miller's spot. Ellington is a great shooter that will be able to have a strong place for the Wolves as a backup shooting guard.
29. New York Knicks - Toney Douglas
He sort of is like a combo guard version of Chris Duhon. He's a very good defender who doesn't make a lot of mistakes, but he's more of a shooter than Duhon is. He's not going to give you a record number of assists, but he'll still be able to facilitate the offense.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Christian Eyenga
Tweener forward...okay, that's all that anyone really knows about him. A pick for the future for a team whose future is now. However, he's also got some solid trade value.
So there it is. Rather you agree with the picks or not, there's the actual logic that is behind the picks that every team made. In fact, that may not be their actual logic, but some logic that actually makes the picks not look so bad.
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin
Could there be anything more obvious? Above and beyond the rest as far as talent goes.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Hasheem Thabeet
With Marc Gasol there it's a little harder to understand this pick. Gasol's not a bad defender by any means, but by how they talked about Thabeet bringing down low defense to the Grizzlies you'd think that he was the worst defender at the 5 that the league has ever seen. Thabeet will bring little to no offense to the Grizzlies, but there is no doubt that he'll make it almost impossible for other teams to score down low, especially if he's on the floor at the same time as Gasol.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden
With Russell Westbrook already there as your point guard of the future, passing up on the second best talent in the draft in Rubio. James Harden is an all-around point guard. He's someone who can hurt the other team in so many ways, through his defense, his shooting, his driving, or his passing. He'll always be able to give you whatever you need when you need it. As far as talent, yes, Rubio is better, but Harden is the better total fit and will make the team better than Rubio would.
4. Sacramento Kings - Tyreke Evans
Well, the Kings needed a point guard badly, and even though there was one with more talent available, they got a very good future point guard in Evans, even if he is more of a combo guard. However, I guess there's something in his style that Sacramento likes more, since he does have a different type of game than Rubio.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ricky Rubio
This was beyond obvious at this point. Overdue for Rubio.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves -Jonny Flynn
This is a lot harder to justify. The Timberwolves said that they're planning on keeping both Rubio and Flynn, so it looks like they're expecting Rubio to go back to Spain for a year or two and will allow Flynn to grow into good trade bait during that time, or they're going to use Rubio as bait to trade to a team that needs a point guard. Either way, a trade will eventually go down, only that they're not saying it so that the players involved don't lose value.
7. Golden State Warriors - Stephen Curry
Immediate reactions has to be asking how Curry and Ellis will fit together, but when you look at how you score their points, Curry by shooting and Ellis by slashing, you realize that on offense it makes perfect sense. The Warriors have never cared about defense, so that's not an issue. Also, supposedly there's an Amare Stoudemire trade about to go down that Curry will have to be a part of, but there's also rumors that the trade is dead.
8. New York Knicks - Jordan Hill
The Warriors picking Curry actually saved the Knicks from making a bad pick here. While Curry is very good and would look very good in D'Antoni's offense, Jordan Hill will wind up being even better. He brings some defense to the 4 spot for the Knicks as well as a versatile offensive game that just needs to be refined some more. The Knicks are going to love having this guy in the future.
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan
This was an obvious pick at this point. DeRozan is loaded with potential and has drawn many comparisons to former Raptor Vince Carter. While he might never realize that potential, the potential that he does have is too high for him to not be picked here.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings
His attitude seems to be pretty immature still, there's no doubt about that, but there's also no doubt that the kid has pretty amazing talent. If he can just play with his head as well he could wind up being a superstar.
11. New Jersey Nets - Terrence Williams
The Nets struck gold last year with Brook Lopez. They also traded Vince Carter in what seemed mostly like a salary dump right before the draft. In the trade they picked up Courtney Lee, a draft pick by the Magic a year ago who has established himself as a strong perimeter defender and a solid offensive player despite being most known for missing what would've been a game winning lay-in during the finals. Either way, they picked up Williams likely to play the small forward spot, which was a horrible weakness last year after trading away Richard Jefferson.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson
The fact that Jordan was able to allow his team to pick a Duke player is amazing enough. Henderson brings almost the perfect guy to replace Raja Bell. A tough defender, but Henderson is better at driving and more athletic, so he may bring an extra dimension that Bell doesn't bring and could actually the the starting 2 by the start of next season.
13. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough
Some fans gave a lot of heat to the Pacers front office for this pick, but Hansbrought gives them exactly what they need up front. They need energy and toughness up front, as Hibbert and Nesterovic provide neither right now and Murphy provides no energy and barely toughness. Hansbrough is going to breathe new life into that front line and he has the skill and drive to actually wind up starting in the future.
14. Phoenix Suns - Earl Clark
Tons of talent here, his potential is through the roof. The Suns took a home run swing here, and if it pays off they could, with the right moves otherwise, be right back to where they were only a few years ago within half a decade.
15. Detroit Pistons - Austin Daye
A bit of a surprise pick. Daye is very tall and long, but he's under 200 pounds. While due to length he can play power forward for most teams, for Detroit, a team that prides itself on it's rough and physical defense, he's not someone who you can play there. He's clearly a project there, and if he can wind up bulking up he might be able to play some 4 there, but he might be even better fit at the 2 than the 4. With Prince there you really don't put him at the 3. This could be a future trade move too.
16. Chicago Bulls - James Johnson
Getting a guy that could've gone 7 picks earlier, the Bulls got a steal here. Anyone complaining about this pick just simply do not make any sense. He's a player who can easily play either the 3 or the 4. He's very strong and brings both toughness down low and on the perimeter. He has developed himself a very good jump shot out to 3 point range and has a game that despite being physical, is silky smooth. Just take Andres Nocioni, a former favorite in Chicago. Add on plenty of athleticism and a more consistent jumper. Throw in a smooth game and more size to add to the physical style, and there you go. This was an excellent pick for the Bulls.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Jrue Holiday
He didn't fall as far as he could have, but he did fall enough to draw some attention for falling in a draft that seemed to have falling as a common theme. Holiday has a ton of potential, but no one really knows why. He doesn't have much of a jumper, he plays like a combo guard, and his health is an issue. However, there's just something about him that makes teams think that he can wind up being really good, and there's a good chance that they can be right. Great pick by the Sixers, who may likely lose Andre Miller this offseason. Holiday will be no less than adequate for filling in.
18. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ty Lawson
Okay, not so fast. Yeah, it's a third point guard that the T-Wolves drafted, almost like they're trying to make history by drafting so many point guards, but this pick was traded to the Nuggets for a future first round pick. Supposedly the Wolves wanted James Johnson, but when the Bulls picked him they didn't want this pick anymore and that's why the trade was made. Lawson will be an excellent backup for the Nuggets and will provide a player that brings something different than what Billups brings, making him even harder to guard.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jeff Teague
When they drafted Acie Law a couple of years ago you thought they wouldn't need to be targeting point guards anymore, but that didn't work out. So they traded for Bibby. However, Bibby's not young by any means and could very well be wanting more than what the Hawks can spend, so they go after Jeff Teague, a point guard who isn't entirely a true point guard, but who can shoot the ball. With the depth of this year's point guard crop, even though it's this low, Teague could be the guy who ends the pursuit for a while.
20. Utah Jazz - Eric Maynor
More of an all-around point guard, if Williams has any injury problems from here on out, the Jazz know that they have someone to back him up that won't allow the team to fall to mediocrity.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Darren Collison
Looking even worse without Paul than the Jazz looked without Williams, the Hornets had the same idea, making for the third point guard drafted in a row, but Collison is another very good one, bringing some very good defense along with a solid offensive game from all angles.
22. Portland Trailblazers - Victor Claver
A potential pick, he's a very athletic 3/4 type of guy. It's a good pick, because the Blazers are a pretty stacked team, and they can afford to pick a project. This is a guy who could have a high reward, but also could likely never really ever amount to much.
23. Sacramento Kings - Omri Casspi
This is a good pick in that it at least gives the Kings someone to challenge Francisco Garcia for the starting spot at the 3. Casspi is ready to play right now and will at least be able to back Garcia up very well.
24. Dallas Mavericks - Byron Mullens
Now he's Byron, not BJ. Either way, he's actually a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder right now. The Thunder already have what's looking to shape up as a scary lineup with Westbrook, Harden, Durant, and Green. With Kristic at the 5 they were looking good, but if Mullens can develop into the center that he has the ability to develop into, then the Thunder can just plain flat out be scary.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Rodrigue Beaubois
The other half of the Mullens trade, the Mavs get a future point guard. Both him and Mullens are players that are very high reward, but high risk. If Beaubois fills his potential out, then the Mavs have nothing to worry about when it comes to losing Kidd.
26. Chicago Bulls - Taj Gibson
He's drawn comparisons to guys like Joe Smith and Vin Baker. If he can play like those guys then this is a SERIOUS steal for the Bulls here. He's got a refined offensive game with good versatility on that end and can block shots like it's nothing on the defensive end. I can't think of much more you could ask for at this point in the draft. Sure, they could've gone for DeJuan Blair, but Blair is a very high risk player and his reward is not nearly high enough to go after him at this point. Those who bring up guys like Paul Millsap tend to forget that Blair has nothing that resembles a jump shot.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - DeMarre Carroll
He may have liver disease, but he can play. Drafted as a backup he could wind up being a very strong player off the bench for a very long time.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Wayne Ellington
It's not a point guard!!! It almost seems like Ellington is being brought in to fill Mike Miller's spot. Ellington is a great shooter that will be able to have a strong place for the Wolves as a backup shooting guard.
29. New York Knicks - Toney Douglas
He sort of is like a combo guard version of Chris Duhon. He's a very good defender who doesn't make a lot of mistakes, but he's more of a shooter than Duhon is. He's not going to give you a record number of assists, but he'll still be able to facilitate the offense.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Christian Eyenga
Tweener forward...okay, that's all that anyone really knows about him. A pick for the future for a team whose future is now. However, he's also got some solid trade value.
So there it is. Rather you agree with the picks or not, there's the actual logic that is behind the picks that every team made. In fact, that may not be their actual logic, but some logic that actually makes the picks not look so bad.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Final Mock Draft
Here it is, the end of the first round of the draft is less than 24 hours away while moves are being made like mad. This is already looking like it will be a very interesting draft with all of the moves being made, so here is one final mock draft with several trades being made. The trades will be mentioned at the first draft spot they show up at. Without any further introduction, here is the final mock draft here:
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin
This is the obvious pick, no one comes close to the impact that Griffin is expected to have. When you throw in that the Clippers said that they were going with Griffin shortly after they won the lottery, and again, this is obvious.
2. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ricky Rubio
Minnesota has been trying hard to trade up for that #2 pick with the Grizzlies and the Grizzlies have been playing hardball. With the Grizzlies rumored to be trading away Darko Milicic, it would make sense for them to accept the #5 pick and Craig Smith for the #2 pick. The Timberwolves have realized at this point that Sebastian Telfair just isn't an NBA quality starting point guard. He's a guy who would be excellent in backup, but not a starter. With Randy Foye gone, that means that their other option is gone as well. The Wolves need to make sure to move ahead of the Kings in order to secure Rubio, and this could very well do it.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden
This is a tough choice between Harden and Thabeet. In the end, Thabeet really seems like more of the Olowokandi type of player. Olowokandi was not drafted as the best player in the 1998 draft. He was simply seen as the best big man, and seeing as how the Clippers wanted a big man, they went with Olowokandi. Thabeet will likely be better than Olowokandi, especially since he is such a good defender, but he's really not as good as some of the other players available at this point, and one of those players is James Harden. Harden is a shooting guard, which is a position that the Thunder are thin at, who has great all-around skills. He will compliment the Thunder very well due to this. He's the best player available for the Thunder at this point.
4. Sacramento Kings - Tyreke Evans
While he's really more of a combo guard, Evans is at least someone with solid point guard skills that the Kings can put at point guard over Roko Ukic. Stephen Curry is another option at this point, but he would not compliment Kevin Martin very well at all. Evans brings great size for a point guard and a very well rounded game. He will be able to fill that void that the Kings have at point guard very well and is not a bad pick at this point in the draft.
5. Memphis Grizzlies - Jordan Hill
Wow, Thabeet has fallen this far? Despite teams seeming high on him, due to need he could really fall. The Grizzlies, like mentioned seem to be trading Darko Milicic. They're getting Craig Smith in the trade already, but since they were already thing at the 4 spot anyway, getting another 4 with high potential is a good move. Hill has the ability to be a Chris Bosh Lite type of guy. However, his defense is superior to Bosh's, even if his offense isn't quite as good as Bosh's.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Hasheem Thabeet
After an unexpected wait, Thabeet finally gets drafted to play in Minnesota. The Timberwolves are desperate for more size in their front court, and with Love and Jefferson already having good offensive games, they can afford to bring a defensive minded player with a very raw offensive game into their rotation up front.
7. Golden State Warriors - Stephen Curry
Monta Ellis has supposedly been vocal about not wanting the Warriors to draft a point guard, but Curry is more of a combo guard. Despite his size mixed in with Ellis' size, he could actually compliment Ellis very well in the back court. The Warriors are almost entirely offensive minded, and while Ellis is more of a slasher who likes to score by the basket, Curry is more of a shooter. They both could also benefit from their scoring skills and be able to find the other for easy scoring opportunities as well.
8. New York Knicks - Jonny Flynn
While it will be tempting for them to take Brandon Jennings here, especially because of his street ball style that is so popular in the city of New York, Jonny Flynn is the type of point guard who will thrive much more in Mike D'Antoni's style of offense. Having him with Chris Duhon at the point guard spot will really give the Knicks a more complete offense.
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan
The Raptors could use two things above all else. A physical big man and a good wing player. With DeRozan they get that wing. He is without a doubt a project, but his upside is way too much to ignore at this point in the draft, especially when he fills a need for your team.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings
The Bucks are in desperate need for a good point guard and this may be the one for them. While Jennings does have a bit of a street style, he still has the skills to be a good NBA point guard. At this point he is without a doubt a good player for the Bucks to take a chance on.
11. New Jersey Nets - James Johnson
The Nets could use a good small forward. With Johnson they get that and more. He's a small forward who is big enough to play the 4 as well. His tough and physical style of play will compliment both the front court and Vince Carter very well.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson
While Terrence Williams is the flavor of the week right now, in the end the Bobcats will go with the player who seems to be more of a safe pick. Henderson is a good slasher with a solid jump shot. He's got good size to play the 2 in the NBA, and he is a fundamentally strong player. The only thing that should really stop them from making this pick would be if Jordan just can't stand watching a Duke player get drafted onto his team.
13. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens
The Bulls have been showing interest in Mullens throughout the draft process, and after seeing that he is still available at this point they will pull the trade, giving up both their 16th and 26th picks for the 13th pick of the Pacers. Supposedly it's been a debate in the front offices of the Bulls rather they should go with Blair or Mullens. The bottom line is that Blair has knee problems at the age of 21, he's a very heavy person, he is very limited athletically, and his weight likely won't get much lower playing in a city that has the food that Chicago has. Mullens has his questions, but he's a skilled and athletic big man, which isn't common at all. With both the Pistons and Suns showing interest in Mullens, the Bulls will have to make this deal in order to get their man.
14. Phoenix Suns - Ty Lawson
Steve Nash is getting old and it's not sure thing that Goran Dragic will ever be what the Suns were hoping he would be when they traded for him on draft night last season. Lawson has a very good chance at being a very good point guard for many years in the league. The biggest questions that arrive with him are about his health. However, those questions tend to be highly exaggerated, and he can get over them. Nash is still the guy in Phoenix for at least another year, and in that time Lawson will be able to back Nash up along with Dragic during that time. When Nash is gone, Lawson will be a good option to take over for him.
15. Detroit Pistons - Earl Clark
With Mullens and Johnson gone, Clark is another guy that the Pistons have had their eye on. At 6'10" he is a small forward as far as style goes, but he's tall enough to play power forward, a position that the Pistons are going to have to address since they're losing a key big man in Rasheed Wallace, most likely, this offseason.
16. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough
Hansbrough brings a level of toughness, hustle, and energy to the frontline of the Indiana Pacers that they desperately need. After the combine measurements were taken it was found that he's actually got plenty of size and strength to play the power forward position in the NBA. He likely won't bring huge stats, but as a backup power forward he will be more than adequate.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Eric Maynor
The Sixers could lose Andre Miller this offseason, and if they do they could use someone to take his place. While he might not be a good starting point guard right away, Maynor has the skills and potential to eventually be a very good point guard. He's a complete package and can very well be very similar to Andre Miller withing a couple of years.
18. Chicago Bulls - Terrence Williams
With Minnesota having four first round picks, the Timberwolves may very well be willing to sell picks. The Bulls, after having traded away one of their two first round picks could be looking to buy this pick here, especially since bringing back Ben Gordon is clearly no sure thing. Williams is a shooting guard with great size for the 2 spot. He can also spend some time at the small forward spot as well, which would be nice if Deng is either traded or injured again. He's a very good defender and very athletic. He's a good slasher who should be able to put up adequate scoring numbers as well. His only question marks are his shooting ability and his mental maturity. Both of those can come around.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jeff Teague
Bibby is possibly on his way out soon and it looks like Acie Law could be traded soon as well. This would leave the Hawks very thin at the 1, so picking a guard with Teague's potential would be a great move here, especially since he'll have a year to settle in. Teague is very athletic and quick, has a good jump shot and is a solid passer. His game will likely continue to develop, and if it does he can be a strong point guard for years to come.
20. Utah Jazz - DeJuan Blair
The free-fall for Blair ends here. After being favored to be a top 10 pick only a couple of weeks ago bad news about his standing vertical, him being shorter than expected, and the news about his knees have really killed his draft stock. However, with either Boozer or Millsap leaving soon they're going to need another down low presence, and is where Blair comes in. Also, it's hard to see Blair falling any further than this. If nothing else they draft him and trade him.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Chase Budinger
Stojakovic is still there with the Hornets for a bit, but when you have someone who can penetrate like Chris Paul can you really cannot have too many shooters. Having Budinger and Stojakovic at the wings gives Paul two very good options to pass the ball out to once he's able to get down low. Either guy can shoot the lights out from the outside. Budinger also brings very good athleticism and has been said to be a lot quicker than initially thought.
22. Portland Trailblazers - Austin Daye
This is more of a best player available type of pick for the Blazers here. Daye is a bit of a project, but he's almost 6'11" and can play the 3. He'll likely split time between the 3 and 4 due to his height, but the Blazers could use some depth at the 4 and having a player with as much potential as Daye is always nice to have.
23. Sacramento Kings - DaJuan Summers
A do it all, well rounded small forward. Not amazing at any one thing, but he'll be an excellent backup almost right away and a possible starter down the road.
24. Dallas Mavericks - Wayne Ellington
A great shooter, but Ellington doesn't bring a whole lot more. However, having another shooter out there on the floor is not a bad idea at all for the Mavericks who already have plenty of guys who play the more penetration style between the 1 and 3.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Darren Collison
Westbrook is an excellent point guard, make no mistake about it, but he isn't a true point guard. He still can more than hold his own as a starter in the NBA, but having a solid true point guard, especially one that plays very good defense is always a good idea for your rotation.
26. Indiana Pacers - Omri Casspi
A sub for Danny Granger. Casspi is ready to come in right away and will fill the role of backup small forward and possibly occasionally as power forward (though sparingly).
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Jrue Holiday
With Mike Conley and OJ Mayo already running the backcourt in Memphis, Holiday is a bit of a project, but a player who'll be able to really give the Grizzlies a strong rotation in their backcourt. Holiday is more of a combo guard, Mayo is more of a shooting guard, and Conley is purely a point guard. To be totally honest, having Holiday fall this far seems crazy, but GMs are beginning to realize that they're not sure what they really like with Holiday, so the doubt which have seen so many players tumble in the past may pick Holiday as their main victim this year.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Jonas Jerebko
Jerebko will feel right at home going from Sweden to Minnesota, despite the lack of fjords in Minnesota. He's a small forward with a world of potential. His all around game is strong with no glaring weaknesses.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Taj Gibson
The Lakers like to go after the occasional local guy, and that's what they'll do with Gibson, giving some added depth at the power forward position.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Josh Heytvelt
The Cavs are going to need some added strength to their front line, and Heytvelt is a big body that can do just that. He's got solid skills for a big man as well as a good jumper that goes out further than most would expect to see.
Okay, there it is. The second round this season doesn't really seem to have any real rhyme or reason to it, so doing a mock for that is just something that really doesn't make much sense. Early second round picks will likely be Derrick Brown, Toney Douglas, Sam Young, Rodrigue Beaubois, Victor Claver, and Patrick Mills.
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin
This is the obvious pick, no one comes close to the impact that Griffin is expected to have. When you throw in that the Clippers said that they were going with Griffin shortly after they won the lottery, and again, this is obvious.
2. Minnesota Timberwolves - Ricky Rubio
Minnesota has been trying hard to trade up for that #2 pick with the Grizzlies and the Grizzlies have been playing hardball. With the Grizzlies rumored to be trading away Darko Milicic, it would make sense for them to accept the #5 pick and Craig Smith for the #2 pick. The Timberwolves have realized at this point that Sebastian Telfair just isn't an NBA quality starting point guard. He's a guy who would be excellent in backup, but not a starter. With Randy Foye gone, that means that their other option is gone as well. The Wolves need to make sure to move ahead of the Kings in order to secure Rubio, and this could very well do it.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden
This is a tough choice between Harden and Thabeet. In the end, Thabeet really seems like more of the Olowokandi type of player. Olowokandi was not drafted as the best player in the 1998 draft. He was simply seen as the best big man, and seeing as how the Clippers wanted a big man, they went with Olowokandi. Thabeet will likely be better than Olowokandi, especially since he is such a good defender, but he's really not as good as some of the other players available at this point, and one of those players is James Harden. Harden is a shooting guard, which is a position that the Thunder are thin at, who has great all-around skills. He will compliment the Thunder very well due to this. He's the best player available for the Thunder at this point.
4. Sacramento Kings - Tyreke Evans
While he's really more of a combo guard, Evans is at least someone with solid point guard skills that the Kings can put at point guard over Roko Ukic. Stephen Curry is another option at this point, but he would not compliment Kevin Martin very well at all. Evans brings great size for a point guard and a very well rounded game. He will be able to fill that void that the Kings have at point guard very well and is not a bad pick at this point in the draft.
5. Memphis Grizzlies - Jordan Hill
Wow, Thabeet has fallen this far? Despite teams seeming high on him, due to need he could really fall. The Grizzlies, like mentioned seem to be trading Darko Milicic. They're getting Craig Smith in the trade already, but since they were already thing at the 4 spot anyway, getting another 4 with high potential is a good move. Hill has the ability to be a Chris Bosh Lite type of guy. However, his defense is superior to Bosh's, even if his offense isn't quite as good as Bosh's.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Hasheem Thabeet
After an unexpected wait, Thabeet finally gets drafted to play in Minnesota. The Timberwolves are desperate for more size in their front court, and with Love and Jefferson already having good offensive games, they can afford to bring a defensive minded player with a very raw offensive game into their rotation up front.
7. Golden State Warriors - Stephen Curry
Monta Ellis has supposedly been vocal about not wanting the Warriors to draft a point guard, but Curry is more of a combo guard. Despite his size mixed in with Ellis' size, he could actually compliment Ellis very well in the back court. The Warriors are almost entirely offensive minded, and while Ellis is more of a slasher who likes to score by the basket, Curry is more of a shooter. They both could also benefit from their scoring skills and be able to find the other for easy scoring opportunities as well.
8. New York Knicks - Jonny Flynn
While it will be tempting for them to take Brandon Jennings here, especially because of his street ball style that is so popular in the city of New York, Jonny Flynn is the type of point guard who will thrive much more in Mike D'Antoni's style of offense. Having him with Chris Duhon at the point guard spot will really give the Knicks a more complete offense.
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan
The Raptors could use two things above all else. A physical big man and a good wing player. With DeRozan they get that wing. He is without a doubt a project, but his upside is way too much to ignore at this point in the draft, especially when he fills a need for your team.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings
The Bucks are in desperate need for a good point guard and this may be the one for them. While Jennings does have a bit of a street style, he still has the skills to be a good NBA point guard. At this point he is without a doubt a good player for the Bucks to take a chance on.
11. New Jersey Nets - James Johnson
The Nets could use a good small forward. With Johnson they get that and more. He's a small forward who is big enough to play the 4 as well. His tough and physical style of play will compliment both the front court and Vince Carter very well.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson
While Terrence Williams is the flavor of the week right now, in the end the Bobcats will go with the player who seems to be more of a safe pick. Henderson is a good slasher with a solid jump shot. He's got good size to play the 2 in the NBA, and he is a fundamentally strong player. The only thing that should really stop them from making this pick would be if Jordan just can't stand watching a Duke player get drafted onto his team.
13. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens
The Bulls have been showing interest in Mullens throughout the draft process, and after seeing that he is still available at this point they will pull the trade, giving up both their 16th and 26th picks for the 13th pick of the Pacers. Supposedly it's been a debate in the front offices of the Bulls rather they should go with Blair or Mullens. The bottom line is that Blair has knee problems at the age of 21, he's a very heavy person, he is very limited athletically, and his weight likely won't get much lower playing in a city that has the food that Chicago has. Mullens has his questions, but he's a skilled and athletic big man, which isn't common at all. With both the Pistons and Suns showing interest in Mullens, the Bulls will have to make this deal in order to get their man.
14. Phoenix Suns - Ty Lawson
Steve Nash is getting old and it's not sure thing that Goran Dragic will ever be what the Suns were hoping he would be when they traded for him on draft night last season. Lawson has a very good chance at being a very good point guard for many years in the league. The biggest questions that arrive with him are about his health. However, those questions tend to be highly exaggerated, and he can get over them. Nash is still the guy in Phoenix for at least another year, and in that time Lawson will be able to back Nash up along with Dragic during that time. When Nash is gone, Lawson will be a good option to take over for him.
15. Detroit Pistons - Earl Clark
With Mullens and Johnson gone, Clark is another guy that the Pistons have had their eye on. At 6'10" he is a small forward as far as style goes, but he's tall enough to play power forward, a position that the Pistons are going to have to address since they're losing a key big man in Rasheed Wallace, most likely, this offseason.
16. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough
Hansbrough brings a level of toughness, hustle, and energy to the frontline of the Indiana Pacers that they desperately need. After the combine measurements were taken it was found that he's actually got plenty of size and strength to play the power forward position in the NBA. He likely won't bring huge stats, but as a backup power forward he will be more than adequate.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Eric Maynor
The Sixers could lose Andre Miller this offseason, and if they do they could use someone to take his place. While he might not be a good starting point guard right away, Maynor has the skills and potential to eventually be a very good point guard. He's a complete package and can very well be very similar to Andre Miller withing a couple of years.
18. Chicago Bulls - Terrence Williams
With Minnesota having four first round picks, the Timberwolves may very well be willing to sell picks. The Bulls, after having traded away one of their two first round picks could be looking to buy this pick here, especially since bringing back Ben Gordon is clearly no sure thing. Williams is a shooting guard with great size for the 2 spot. He can also spend some time at the small forward spot as well, which would be nice if Deng is either traded or injured again. He's a very good defender and very athletic. He's a good slasher who should be able to put up adequate scoring numbers as well. His only question marks are his shooting ability and his mental maturity. Both of those can come around.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jeff Teague
Bibby is possibly on his way out soon and it looks like Acie Law could be traded soon as well. This would leave the Hawks very thin at the 1, so picking a guard with Teague's potential would be a great move here, especially since he'll have a year to settle in. Teague is very athletic and quick, has a good jump shot and is a solid passer. His game will likely continue to develop, and if it does he can be a strong point guard for years to come.
20. Utah Jazz - DeJuan Blair
The free-fall for Blair ends here. After being favored to be a top 10 pick only a couple of weeks ago bad news about his standing vertical, him being shorter than expected, and the news about his knees have really killed his draft stock. However, with either Boozer or Millsap leaving soon they're going to need another down low presence, and is where Blair comes in. Also, it's hard to see Blair falling any further than this. If nothing else they draft him and trade him.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Chase Budinger
Stojakovic is still there with the Hornets for a bit, but when you have someone who can penetrate like Chris Paul can you really cannot have too many shooters. Having Budinger and Stojakovic at the wings gives Paul two very good options to pass the ball out to once he's able to get down low. Either guy can shoot the lights out from the outside. Budinger also brings very good athleticism and has been said to be a lot quicker than initially thought.
22. Portland Trailblazers - Austin Daye
This is more of a best player available type of pick for the Blazers here. Daye is a bit of a project, but he's almost 6'11" and can play the 3. He'll likely split time between the 3 and 4 due to his height, but the Blazers could use some depth at the 4 and having a player with as much potential as Daye is always nice to have.
23. Sacramento Kings - DaJuan Summers
A do it all, well rounded small forward. Not amazing at any one thing, but he'll be an excellent backup almost right away and a possible starter down the road.
24. Dallas Mavericks - Wayne Ellington
A great shooter, but Ellington doesn't bring a whole lot more. However, having another shooter out there on the floor is not a bad idea at all for the Mavericks who already have plenty of guys who play the more penetration style between the 1 and 3.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Darren Collison
Westbrook is an excellent point guard, make no mistake about it, but he isn't a true point guard. He still can more than hold his own as a starter in the NBA, but having a solid true point guard, especially one that plays very good defense is always a good idea for your rotation.
26. Indiana Pacers - Omri Casspi
A sub for Danny Granger. Casspi is ready to come in right away and will fill the role of backup small forward and possibly occasionally as power forward (though sparingly).
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Jrue Holiday
With Mike Conley and OJ Mayo already running the backcourt in Memphis, Holiday is a bit of a project, but a player who'll be able to really give the Grizzlies a strong rotation in their backcourt. Holiday is more of a combo guard, Mayo is more of a shooting guard, and Conley is purely a point guard. To be totally honest, having Holiday fall this far seems crazy, but GMs are beginning to realize that they're not sure what they really like with Holiday, so the doubt which have seen so many players tumble in the past may pick Holiday as their main victim this year.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Jonas Jerebko
Jerebko will feel right at home going from Sweden to Minnesota, despite the lack of fjords in Minnesota. He's a small forward with a world of potential. His all around game is strong with no glaring weaknesses.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Taj Gibson
The Lakers like to go after the occasional local guy, and that's what they'll do with Gibson, giving some added depth at the power forward position.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Josh Heytvelt
The Cavs are going to need some added strength to their front line, and Heytvelt is a big body that can do just that. He's got solid skills for a big man as well as a good jumper that goes out further than most would expect to see.
Okay, there it is. The second round this season doesn't really seem to have any real rhyme or reason to it, so doing a mock for that is just something that really doesn't make much sense. Early second round picks will likely be Derrick Brown, Toney Douglas, Sam Young, Rodrigue Beaubois, Victor Claver, and Patrick Mills.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Another Mock Draft
With 2 weeks left until the draft, there are going to be two or three more mock drafts to come. However, things are starting to work out, and we're starting to hear more and more of what teams are saying. Same trades as last time are going to be in as last time, especially since one of those teams is really a wild card right now as to what they will do.
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin (obvious)
2. Sacramento Kings (From Memphis) - Ricky Rubio (assuming the trade this is the obvious move)
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - Hasheem Thabeet (another pick that, although you may not agree with it, seems to be the move that will obviously be made at this point)
4. Memphis Grizzlies - Jordan Hill (impossible to see them going for anyone else at this point)
5. Washington Wizards - James Harden (would compliment Arenas very well and is a guy who can come right in and be a very good player)
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Tyreke Evans (climbing and standing steady on almost all draft charts)
7. Golden State Warriors - Jonny Flynn (Jennings is the second best point guard in the drat, but Flynn fits in better with this team and is considered higher at this point)
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry (if he hits this point the Knicks and D'Antoni's system won't pass on him)
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan (at this point Toronto doesn't even think of passing on him)
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings (need a good, consistent point guard, and Jennings is clearly their best shot at that)
11. New Jersey Nets - Gerald Henderson (they seem to want to trade Carter, and until then Henderson can still learn while backing up)
12. Charlotte Bobcats - DeJuan Blair (while I don't think much of him, I don't see him going past here. Also seems to be a guy that could compliment Okafor well.)
13. Indiana Pacers - Jrue Holiday (everybody likes him, nobody knows really why. Pacers could really benefit from taking a chance on him here)
14. Phoenix Suns - Earl Clark (project with a ton of upside. Combo forward that reminds me a bit of a weaker version of Marion)
15. Detroit Pistons - James Johnson (slightly undersized power forward who pretty much defines the classic Pistons style of play)
16. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens (Center project who could potentiall change the fortunes of the Bulls as far as centers go)
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Ty Lawson (they could use a point guard, and Lawson is ready to come right in and perform at a reasonable level)
18. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota) - Tyler Hansbrough (at very least will be a very good role player, after the combine it appears he could wind up being more than that, but we'll wait and see)
19. Atlanta Hawks - Eric Maynor (some tough workouts, but he still appears as a point guard who could wind up being a good starter for years to come)
20. Utah Jazz - Austin Daye (Tons of potential and could finally be the guy to actually add some excitement to a good, but otherwise boring, Utah Jazz team)
21. New Orleans Hornets - Terrence Williams (if he doesn't go to the Bulls, despite how good he is, he's falling all the way down to here. Very good prospect at the 2, and he can play the 3)
22. Dallas Mavericks - Jeff Teague (With Kidd as old as he is they're going to need another point guard. Barea is good, but he's a bench guy)
23. Sacramento Kings - Patrick Mills (The guy tore apart the Redeem Team all by himself, falling just short of victory, when your point guard is Beno Udrih this is a clear improvement)
24. Portland Trailblazers - Sam Young (tough small forward that'll help them out)
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Chase Budinger (adds serious long range threat to the Thunder)
26. Chicago Bulls - Darren Collison (high college experienced backup to Derrick Rose that costs a tenth of their current backup, this pick is assuming the Timberwolves trade is made)
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Gani Lawal (wouldn't hurt to go after 2 big men with that team that only has Marc Gasol and is likely losing Darko (can't believe I said that, but he is decent))
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Wayne Ellington (just because he's probably the best guy left here)
29. LA Lakers - Taj Gibson (Local guy who can be a strong player down low)
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Marcus Thornton (Never before has the team with the best record in the league had so much room for improvement, but adding a true point guard would be a start)
Not as in depth with the descriptions, but the rumors and such are starting to be incorporated more and more.
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin (obvious)
2. Sacramento Kings (From Memphis) - Ricky Rubio (assuming the trade this is the obvious move)
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - Hasheem Thabeet (another pick that, although you may not agree with it, seems to be the move that will obviously be made at this point)
4. Memphis Grizzlies - Jordan Hill (impossible to see them going for anyone else at this point)
5. Washington Wizards - James Harden (would compliment Arenas very well and is a guy who can come right in and be a very good player)
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Tyreke Evans (climbing and standing steady on almost all draft charts)
7. Golden State Warriors - Jonny Flynn (Jennings is the second best point guard in the drat, but Flynn fits in better with this team and is considered higher at this point)
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry (if he hits this point the Knicks and D'Antoni's system won't pass on him)
9. Toronto Raptors - DeMar DeRozan (at this point Toronto doesn't even think of passing on him)
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Brandon Jennings (need a good, consistent point guard, and Jennings is clearly their best shot at that)
11. New Jersey Nets - Gerald Henderson (they seem to want to trade Carter, and until then Henderson can still learn while backing up)
12. Charlotte Bobcats - DeJuan Blair (while I don't think much of him, I don't see him going past here. Also seems to be a guy that could compliment Okafor well.)
13. Indiana Pacers - Jrue Holiday (everybody likes him, nobody knows really why. Pacers could really benefit from taking a chance on him here)
14. Phoenix Suns - Earl Clark (project with a ton of upside. Combo forward that reminds me a bit of a weaker version of Marion)
15. Detroit Pistons - James Johnson (slightly undersized power forward who pretty much defines the classic Pistons style of play)
16. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens (Center project who could potentiall change the fortunes of the Bulls as far as centers go)
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Ty Lawson (they could use a point guard, and Lawson is ready to come right in and perform at a reasonable level)
18. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota) - Tyler Hansbrough (at very least will be a very good role player, after the combine it appears he could wind up being more than that, but we'll wait and see)
19. Atlanta Hawks - Eric Maynor (some tough workouts, but he still appears as a point guard who could wind up being a good starter for years to come)
20. Utah Jazz - Austin Daye (Tons of potential and could finally be the guy to actually add some excitement to a good, but otherwise boring, Utah Jazz team)
21. New Orleans Hornets - Terrence Williams (if he doesn't go to the Bulls, despite how good he is, he's falling all the way down to here. Very good prospect at the 2, and he can play the 3)
22. Dallas Mavericks - Jeff Teague (With Kidd as old as he is they're going to need another point guard. Barea is good, but he's a bench guy)
23. Sacramento Kings - Patrick Mills (The guy tore apart the Redeem Team all by himself, falling just short of victory, when your point guard is Beno Udrih this is a clear improvement)
24. Portland Trailblazers - Sam Young (tough small forward that'll help them out)
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Chase Budinger (adds serious long range threat to the Thunder)
26. Chicago Bulls - Darren Collison (high college experienced backup to Derrick Rose that costs a tenth of their current backup, this pick is assuming the Timberwolves trade is made)
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Gani Lawal (wouldn't hurt to go after 2 big men with that team that only has Marc Gasol and is likely losing Darko (can't believe I said that, but he is decent))
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Wayne Ellington (just because he's probably the best guy left here)
29. LA Lakers - Taj Gibson (Local guy who can be a strong player down low)
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Marcus Thornton (Never before has the team with the best record in the league had so much room for improvement, but adding a true point guard would be a start)
Not as in depth with the descriptions, but the rumors and such are starting to be incorporated more and more.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
New Mock Draft (With Trades!)
Next mock draft is ready to go, the full first round, but there won't be too in depth reasons for each pick. There are also a couple of trades that either very well could or should go down with this draft.
Trade #1 - The Memphis Grizzlies trade the #2 pick to the Sacramento Kings for the #4 pick and Kenny Thomas.
Trade #2 - The Minnesota Timberwolves trade the #18 pick and Mike Miller to the Chicago Bulls for Kirk Hinrich and a 2012 second round pick.
Now for the draft:
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin 6'10" 250 lbs. Forward
This is the obvious choice for the Clippers. Griffin was already a lock for the first pick, but with his strength and athletic ability shown at the combine (35.5" vertical leap, 22 bench presses), it couldn't be any more of a lock.
2. Sacramento Kings (from Memphis) - Ricky Rubio 6'3" 180 lbs. Guard
The Kings need a new point guard badly. Beno Udrih is just not even close to cutting it. Ricky Rubio is not only the best player at this point, but he fills a need for the Kings.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - Hasheem Thabeet 7'2" 270 lbs. Center
Many teams have been very interested in how Thabeet has been in workouts. His combine numbers didn't hurt him either. The Thunder/Sonics have been hurt by drafting project centers in the past (Petro, Swift, and Sene), but Thabeet seems to be much more the real deal. He isn't nearly as much of a project as past Sonics/Thunder center draftees, and he's already been able to prove his defense at the next level down.
4. Memphis Grizzlies (from Sacramento) - Jordan Hill 6'10" 230 lbs. Forward
Memphis also gets something they want here. It'd be hard to pass on a talent like Rubio at the second spot, and while Thabeet is nice, they do have Gasol and really don't have nearly as much at the 4 spot as they do at the 5. Hill is a power forward with a very versatile offensive game, great athletic ability, and someone who can play some defense as well.
5. Washington Wizards - James Harden 6'5" 220 lbs. Guard
The Wizards have not had a decent shooting guard in a little while. James Harden can really help to fill this void. Haywood may not be great, but he's at least a solid guy to have at the center spot, and they have JaVale McGee for the future, who can also play the power forward spot. Jamison and Butler are likely going to be with the Wizards for a little while and Arenas is locked into a long term deal. Clearly the spot to address is the shooting guard spot, and it's either Harden or DeRozan here. Drafting another combo guard will not work well with Arenas. Harden, with his all-around game is the guy to go to here. He doesn't have to be scoring to be effective, and that does work well with Arenas.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeMar DeRozan 6'7" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
The Timberwolves do have serviceable players at the wing spots, but they can do a lot better. DeRozan has the ability to be that man to make them a lot better.
7. Golden State Warriors - Brandon Jennings 6'1" 170 lbs. Guard
Jennings is a guard who can compliment Monta Ellis very well in the backcourt. He can throw some amazing passes to just about any player. While his game is raw, the Warriors are not going to need him to come in right away and play great, although he should be able to at least be serviceable in his first year.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry 6'3" 180 lbs. Guard
Curry has supposedly been given a guarantee by the Knicks at this spot, so he gets it by that. However, he also has a game that fits in well with a D'Antoni system and could wind up being the Barbosa of D'Antoni's Knicks.
9. Toronto Raptors - Tyreke Evans 6'5" 220 lbs. Guard
With Calderon at the point the Raptors are just fine. However, at the next two spots up, the 2 and 3, the Raptors are in need of a good shooting guard and Evans has the potential to be a very good shooting guard.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Jonny Flynn 6' 200 lbs. Guard
Flynn is not only a good distributor, scorer, and very quick. It also turns out that at the combine he unveiled a 40" vertical leap, something that really puts him at a higher level of athleticism than most basketball fans realized. The Bucks have Luke Ridnour and Ramon Sessions as their point guards. Ridnour can't defend while Sessions is horribly inconsistent. Flynn reminds many scouts of a Damon Stoudamire type, only taller.
11. New Jersey Nets - Chase Budinger 6'7" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
Ever since the Jefferson trade (okay, it's only been a year) the Nets have not had much to write home about at the small forward position. Budinger can change that. While he's not the slashing type of small forward, he doesn't need to be with someone like Devin Harris out there who can slash and penetrate as well as he can. Budinger will be a great option for Harris to kick it out to on the perimeter, as Budinger is lights out with any open jump shot.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - DeJuan Blair 6'6" 277 lbs. Forward
While Blair will never be a guy to put up a whole lot of numbers outside of his rebounding, and once a shot's being taken he won't be able to do much on defense, he's still a guy who can body up down low and prevent other team's players from getting too close to the basket. This really compliments Emeka Okafor down there. While he isn't the best player for the Bobcats to pick at this point, he has enough hype around him that this is likely as far as he will fall.
13. Indiana Pacers - Eric Maynor 6'3" 165 lbs. Guard
Maynor really brings a complete package as a point guard. He's a solid defender with good speed and solid athletic abilities. He's a solid scorer and a very good passer. The Pacers could use at least a backup point guard, and Maynor is an ideal guy for the job.
14. Phoenix Suns - Jeff Teague 6'2" 175 lbs. Guard
Nash is starting to be able to play less and less as he gets older and older. He likely doesn't have a whole lot of time left in his career, and possibly not much left with the Suns either. At this point the Suns have Goran Dragic ready to take over for him, and that's not good for them. Jeff Teague will likely be a better point guard, and at this point he has the best chance of any point guards left in the draft to be a good starter.
15. Detroit Pistons - Terrence Williams 6'6" 215 lbs. Guard/Forward
This would be a great choice for the Pistons. Not only brings great athletic ability and a great all around game, but he also brings a good level of toughness, which is something that the Pistons seemed to be missing last season. That's what the Pistons have always thrived on when they've been good, and that's what Williams can bring back to them.
16. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens 7'1" 260 lbs. Center
The Bulls still could use that very good center. Right now they have Brad Miller, who is as fundamental as a big man comes, but he is older and slower than almost every other center in the league. However, if they draft Mullens they will be able to put him deep enough on the bench where he won't have to be depended on, but not so deep that he can't get some playing time. He'll also have Brad Miller to help mentor him, which is a nice added bonus for a project.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Ty Lawson 6' 200 lbs. Guard
The Sixers are in danger of losing their starting point guard in Andre Miller and could really use at least someone who can come in and backup whoever it is that they use to take Miller's spot. Even if Miller does stay with them for a few more years, he's getting older and is relying more on his veteran intelligence than anything else right now. Lawson is pretty ready to come right in to the NBA right now though.
18. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota) - Tyler Hansbrough 6'10" 235 lbs. Forward
Hansbrough suddenly opened a lot of eyes out there just by getting measured at the draft combine last week. He went from a great college player who was supposedly too small to make it in the NBA to a legitimate power forward prospect. However, prospect isn't even a great word to use for him. Hansbrough is a very NBA ready player, and one that can really be effective. He's got a solid jump shot, he's strong, he plays hard, and he'll also aggravate players on other teams with his physical and energetic style of play. He won't move up too far, but considering he was predicted by some to fall to the second round before this, he's already moved up an awful lot.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jrue Holiday 6'4" 200 lbs. Guard
Holiday is fairly mysterious. It's not that he's shying away from workouts or anything like that, but more that everyone feels like he's going to be this very good player, but he really hasn't done anything to show it yet. However, for the Hawks it would be a great idea to take a shot at a player with this much upside at this point in the draft.
20. Utah Jazz - James Johnson 6'8" 255 lbs. Forward
Johnson is considered by most to be a small forward, but he has the overall size to also play power forward. If the Jazz lose Carlos Boozer this offseason it would be very valuable to have someone with his size to be able to step in and back Millsap up from time to time, but he also can spend plenty of time playing small forward, giving the Jazz a versatile and physical option off the bench.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Gerald Henderson 6'5" 215 lbs. Guard
Henderson would be a great compliment to Peja at the wing spot. Paul penetrates and either kicks it out to Peja for the open jumper or to Henderson who's able to get to the hoop before the defense has time to recover. Henderson is a very good all-around shooting guard and would work out very well with the Hornets. It's tough to see Henderson falling this far, but it very well could wind up happening, and the Hornets will be right on top of that.
22. Dallas Mavericks - Wayne Ellington 6'5" 200 lbs. Guard
Ellington is a sharp shooter in every sense of the word. While Dallas does have Dirk who can already shoot from the outside, Ellington isn't someone who's going to be called on in the post too much who can really hang out more at the perimeter. Dallas could use another point guard, but there really isn't anyone worth stretching for at this point.
23. Sacramento Kings - Earl Clark 6'10" 225 lbs. Forward
Despite his height, Clark is better suited to be a small forward. The player he would best compliment on the team though would be Ricky Rubio. He has that versatile game that will help Rubio out no matter who else is out there, he'll always have Clark there who can score in any way possible. Clark also has some good passing skills, and while not a point forward, he can help to facilitate the offense, creating some nice versatility and bringing the Kings back to what made them so good at the beginning of the decade, being a team with great ball movement.
24. Portland Trailblazers - Toney Douglas 6'2" 185 lbs. Guard
At this point do the Blazers go for that one player to put them over to the next level as a team, or do they just go ahead and draft a project who can put them over later? The answer is simple. You're not going to find that player at this point who can put you over the top without just getting lucky. Therefore you go for a bit of a project, especially since it looks like Oden's going to need another year or two before he's ready to be that big man that will be the anchor of a championship team. Toney Douglas is a guy who can run the point, but can also shoot very well, almost like the point guards that the Bulls had during their first championship run, which will compliment someone like Roy, who can run the offense, very well. His passing and ball handling are very underrated by most at this point.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Omri Casspi 6'8" 210 lbs. Forward
He'll be a bit of a project, but he does have the ability to come in and give quality minutes right away. Casspi helped his cause out at the combine and should be a nice pickup for whoever drafts him.
26. Chicago Bulls - Darren Collison 6'1" 165 lbs. Guard
Collison would be to the Bulls much like Chris Duhon was to them in 2004. He's a point guard who put in a good four years in college and is very NBA ready. He won't develop into any sort of superstar point guard, but he's a good defender who is solid at running an offense. With Kirk Hinrich gone at this point (assuming the Minnesota trade goes through) the Bulls will need a solid backup for Derrick Rose.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Patrick Mills 6' 175 lbs. Guard
Mills would almost be the type of person that the Grizzlies would bring in to replace Navarro or Lowry. He's a small scoring point guard. Mills actually does have the ability to run an offense, but he's so quick and can penetrate so easily that he'll be a great fit as more of a scoring backup point guard.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Damion James 6'7" 225 lbs. Forward
The Wolves would likely go for a point guard at this spot, but all of the point guards worth looking at by this point have been taken. However, now with Kirk Hinrich and Sebastian Telfair backing him up, the Wolves should be pretty solid at that spot. This means that they'll go for more help at the wing spot, and James is a great guy to go for. James is an excellent defender with decent offensive ability.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Taj Gibson 6'10" 215 lbs. Forward
Gibson won't give the Lakers anything outstanding, but he'll give them a little bit of added defense down low, and of course the Lakers like to pick guys who play in their general area (see Jordan Farmar), so it's not unlikely that they'll grab Gibson with this pick.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Tyler Smith 6'6" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
He's got good size and abilities to play either the 2 or the 3, but what really puts him above other players at this spot is his ability to pass the ball. While he won't be starting any time soon, he'll be an excellent player and possibly even a facilitator off the bench.
Keep in mind that what seems like it will happen takes priority over what will happen at this point, but there's still not a whole lot out there as far as to tip anyone off as to what will happen. When there has been that, it's been included.
Trade #1 - The Memphis Grizzlies trade the #2 pick to the Sacramento Kings for the #4 pick and Kenny Thomas.
Trade #2 - The Minnesota Timberwolves trade the #18 pick and Mike Miller to the Chicago Bulls for Kirk Hinrich and a 2012 second round pick.
Now for the draft:
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin 6'10" 250 lbs. Forward
This is the obvious choice for the Clippers. Griffin was already a lock for the first pick, but with his strength and athletic ability shown at the combine (35.5" vertical leap, 22 bench presses), it couldn't be any more of a lock.
2. Sacramento Kings (from Memphis) - Ricky Rubio 6'3" 180 lbs. Guard
The Kings need a new point guard badly. Beno Udrih is just not even close to cutting it. Ricky Rubio is not only the best player at this point, but he fills a need for the Kings.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - Hasheem Thabeet 7'2" 270 lbs. Center
Many teams have been very interested in how Thabeet has been in workouts. His combine numbers didn't hurt him either. The Thunder/Sonics have been hurt by drafting project centers in the past (Petro, Swift, and Sene), but Thabeet seems to be much more the real deal. He isn't nearly as much of a project as past Sonics/Thunder center draftees, and he's already been able to prove his defense at the next level down.
4. Memphis Grizzlies (from Sacramento) - Jordan Hill 6'10" 230 lbs. Forward
Memphis also gets something they want here. It'd be hard to pass on a talent like Rubio at the second spot, and while Thabeet is nice, they do have Gasol and really don't have nearly as much at the 4 spot as they do at the 5. Hill is a power forward with a very versatile offensive game, great athletic ability, and someone who can play some defense as well.
5. Washington Wizards - James Harden 6'5" 220 lbs. Guard
The Wizards have not had a decent shooting guard in a little while. James Harden can really help to fill this void. Haywood may not be great, but he's at least a solid guy to have at the center spot, and they have JaVale McGee for the future, who can also play the power forward spot. Jamison and Butler are likely going to be with the Wizards for a little while and Arenas is locked into a long term deal. Clearly the spot to address is the shooting guard spot, and it's either Harden or DeRozan here. Drafting another combo guard will not work well with Arenas. Harden, with his all-around game is the guy to go to here. He doesn't have to be scoring to be effective, and that does work well with Arenas.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeMar DeRozan 6'7" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
The Timberwolves do have serviceable players at the wing spots, but they can do a lot better. DeRozan has the ability to be that man to make them a lot better.
7. Golden State Warriors - Brandon Jennings 6'1" 170 lbs. Guard
Jennings is a guard who can compliment Monta Ellis very well in the backcourt. He can throw some amazing passes to just about any player. While his game is raw, the Warriors are not going to need him to come in right away and play great, although he should be able to at least be serviceable in his first year.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry 6'3" 180 lbs. Guard
Curry has supposedly been given a guarantee by the Knicks at this spot, so he gets it by that. However, he also has a game that fits in well with a D'Antoni system and could wind up being the Barbosa of D'Antoni's Knicks.
9. Toronto Raptors - Tyreke Evans 6'5" 220 lbs. Guard
With Calderon at the point the Raptors are just fine. However, at the next two spots up, the 2 and 3, the Raptors are in need of a good shooting guard and Evans has the potential to be a very good shooting guard.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Jonny Flynn 6' 200 lbs. Guard
Flynn is not only a good distributor, scorer, and very quick. It also turns out that at the combine he unveiled a 40" vertical leap, something that really puts him at a higher level of athleticism than most basketball fans realized. The Bucks have Luke Ridnour and Ramon Sessions as their point guards. Ridnour can't defend while Sessions is horribly inconsistent. Flynn reminds many scouts of a Damon Stoudamire type, only taller.
11. New Jersey Nets - Chase Budinger 6'7" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
Ever since the Jefferson trade (okay, it's only been a year) the Nets have not had much to write home about at the small forward position. Budinger can change that. While he's not the slashing type of small forward, he doesn't need to be with someone like Devin Harris out there who can slash and penetrate as well as he can. Budinger will be a great option for Harris to kick it out to on the perimeter, as Budinger is lights out with any open jump shot.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - DeJuan Blair 6'6" 277 lbs. Forward
While Blair will never be a guy to put up a whole lot of numbers outside of his rebounding, and once a shot's being taken he won't be able to do much on defense, he's still a guy who can body up down low and prevent other team's players from getting too close to the basket. This really compliments Emeka Okafor down there. While he isn't the best player for the Bobcats to pick at this point, he has enough hype around him that this is likely as far as he will fall.
13. Indiana Pacers - Eric Maynor 6'3" 165 lbs. Guard
Maynor really brings a complete package as a point guard. He's a solid defender with good speed and solid athletic abilities. He's a solid scorer and a very good passer. The Pacers could use at least a backup point guard, and Maynor is an ideal guy for the job.
14. Phoenix Suns - Jeff Teague 6'2" 175 lbs. Guard
Nash is starting to be able to play less and less as he gets older and older. He likely doesn't have a whole lot of time left in his career, and possibly not much left with the Suns either. At this point the Suns have Goran Dragic ready to take over for him, and that's not good for them. Jeff Teague will likely be a better point guard, and at this point he has the best chance of any point guards left in the draft to be a good starter.
15. Detroit Pistons - Terrence Williams 6'6" 215 lbs. Guard/Forward
This would be a great choice for the Pistons. Not only brings great athletic ability and a great all around game, but he also brings a good level of toughness, which is something that the Pistons seemed to be missing last season. That's what the Pistons have always thrived on when they've been good, and that's what Williams can bring back to them.
16. Chicago Bulls - BJ Mullens 7'1" 260 lbs. Center
The Bulls still could use that very good center. Right now they have Brad Miller, who is as fundamental as a big man comes, but he is older and slower than almost every other center in the league. However, if they draft Mullens they will be able to put him deep enough on the bench where he won't have to be depended on, but not so deep that he can't get some playing time. He'll also have Brad Miller to help mentor him, which is a nice added bonus for a project.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Ty Lawson 6' 200 lbs. Guard
The Sixers are in danger of losing their starting point guard in Andre Miller and could really use at least someone who can come in and backup whoever it is that they use to take Miller's spot. Even if Miller does stay with them for a few more years, he's getting older and is relying more on his veteran intelligence than anything else right now. Lawson is pretty ready to come right in to the NBA right now though.
18. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota) - Tyler Hansbrough 6'10" 235 lbs. Forward
Hansbrough suddenly opened a lot of eyes out there just by getting measured at the draft combine last week. He went from a great college player who was supposedly too small to make it in the NBA to a legitimate power forward prospect. However, prospect isn't even a great word to use for him. Hansbrough is a very NBA ready player, and one that can really be effective. He's got a solid jump shot, he's strong, he plays hard, and he'll also aggravate players on other teams with his physical and energetic style of play. He won't move up too far, but considering he was predicted by some to fall to the second round before this, he's already moved up an awful lot.
19. Atlanta Hawks - Jrue Holiday 6'4" 200 lbs. Guard
Holiday is fairly mysterious. It's not that he's shying away from workouts or anything like that, but more that everyone feels like he's going to be this very good player, but he really hasn't done anything to show it yet. However, for the Hawks it would be a great idea to take a shot at a player with this much upside at this point in the draft.
20. Utah Jazz - James Johnson 6'8" 255 lbs. Forward
Johnson is considered by most to be a small forward, but he has the overall size to also play power forward. If the Jazz lose Carlos Boozer this offseason it would be very valuable to have someone with his size to be able to step in and back Millsap up from time to time, but he also can spend plenty of time playing small forward, giving the Jazz a versatile and physical option off the bench.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Gerald Henderson 6'5" 215 lbs. Guard
Henderson would be a great compliment to Peja at the wing spot. Paul penetrates and either kicks it out to Peja for the open jumper or to Henderson who's able to get to the hoop before the defense has time to recover. Henderson is a very good all-around shooting guard and would work out very well with the Hornets. It's tough to see Henderson falling this far, but it very well could wind up happening, and the Hornets will be right on top of that.
22. Dallas Mavericks - Wayne Ellington 6'5" 200 lbs. Guard
Ellington is a sharp shooter in every sense of the word. While Dallas does have Dirk who can already shoot from the outside, Ellington isn't someone who's going to be called on in the post too much who can really hang out more at the perimeter. Dallas could use another point guard, but there really isn't anyone worth stretching for at this point.
23. Sacramento Kings - Earl Clark 6'10" 225 lbs. Forward
Despite his height, Clark is better suited to be a small forward. The player he would best compliment on the team though would be Ricky Rubio. He has that versatile game that will help Rubio out no matter who else is out there, he'll always have Clark there who can score in any way possible. Clark also has some good passing skills, and while not a point forward, he can help to facilitate the offense, creating some nice versatility and bringing the Kings back to what made them so good at the beginning of the decade, being a team with great ball movement.
24. Portland Trailblazers - Toney Douglas 6'2" 185 lbs. Guard
At this point do the Blazers go for that one player to put them over to the next level as a team, or do they just go ahead and draft a project who can put them over later? The answer is simple. You're not going to find that player at this point who can put you over the top without just getting lucky. Therefore you go for a bit of a project, especially since it looks like Oden's going to need another year or two before he's ready to be that big man that will be the anchor of a championship team. Toney Douglas is a guy who can run the point, but can also shoot very well, almost like the point guards that the Bulls had during their first championship run, which will compliment someone like Roy, who can run the offense, very well. His passing and ball handling are very underrated by most at this point.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder - Omri Casspi 6'8" 210 lbs. Forward
He'll be a bit of a project, but he does have the ability to come in and give quality minutes right away. Casspi helped his cause out at the combine and should be a nice pickup for whoever drafts him.
26. Chicago Bulls - Darren Collison 6'1" 165 lbs. Guard
Collison would be to the Bulls much like Chris Duhon was to them in 2004. He's a point guard who put in a good four years in college and is very NBA ready. He won't develop into any sort of superstar point guard, but he's a good defender who is solid at running an offense. With Kirk Hinrich gone at this point (assuming the Minnesota trade goes through) the Bulls will need a solid backup for Derrick Rose.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Patrick Mills 6' 175 lbs. Guard
Mills would almost be the type of person that the Grizzlies would bring in to replace Navarro or Lowry. He's a small scoring point guard. Mills actually does have the ability to run an offense, but he's so quick and can penetrate so easily that he'll be a great fit as more of a scoring backup point guard.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Damion James 6'7" 225 lbs. Forward
The Wolves would likely go for a point guard at this spot, but all of the point guards worth looking at by this point have been taken. However, now with Kirk Hinrich and Sebastian Telfair backing him up, the Wolves should be pretty solid at that spot. This means that they'll go for more help at the wing spot, and James is a great guy to go for. James is an excellent defender with decent offensive ability.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Taj Gibson 6'10" 215 lbs. Forward
Gibson won't give the Lakers anything outstanding, but he'll give them a little bit of added defense down low, and of course the Lakers like to pick guys who play in their general area (see Jordan Farmar), so it's not unlikely that they'll grab Gibson with this pick.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Tyler Smith 6'6" 210 lbs. Guard/Forward
He's got good size and abilities to play either the 2 or the 3, but what really puts him above other players at this spot is his ability to pass the ball. While he won't be starting any time soon, he'll be an excellent player and possibly even a facilitator off the bench.
Keep in mind that what seems like it will happen takes priority over what will happen at this point, but there's still not a whole lot out there as far as to tip anyone off as to what will happen. When there has been that, it's been included.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
NBA Finals Preview
The 2009 NBA Finals are now set. It's the Orlando Magic against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Orlando Magic were able to make it into the finals mostly be creating horrible matchup problems with the Cavaliers. The Cavaliers only had two guys big enough who could actually step out and defend one of their 6'10" three point shooters, and those were LeBron James and Joe Smith. Smith did not get a lot of playing time and James was only one man. With the Lakers it looks like it could be a similar number, only that this time you have two guys who are on the floor an awful lot in Pau Gasol and Trevor Ariza. The Magic still present a matchup problem for the Lakers, but the problem is not nearly as bad as it was for Cleveland.
There will be two major x-factors for the finals this season. The first is their three point shooting for the Magic. When they're making their three point shots, they generally win their games. When they aren't hitting them, they don't usually win their games. The next x-factor for this series is, of all people, Andrew Bynum. The young center is going to have a lot on his plate going up against Dwight Howard. If he gets into foul trouble early on in games, then it could be curtains for the Lakers. The Lakers without Bynum were as soft as they came last year in the finals against Kendrick Perkins and Kevin Garnett. Nothing against Garnett, but it's more the versatility of his offense that makes him a threat. Now it's Dwight Howard down there, and if the Lakers put the same two guys up against him as they did last year to Perkins and Garnett, then the Lakers could seriously be in trouble. If the Magic are not hitting their three point shots, this is one thing that could keep them alive, as they could put Marcin Gortat on the floor with Howard, which has been proven to be a strong duo when they're looking to gain an advantage down low. Gasol and Odom will be way too soft to stop them.
Another major issue in this series, but not necessarily an x-factor is going to be Kobe Bryant. Last year in the finals Kobe did not have his best series. He had a couple of good games, but as a whole did not shoot the ball well and did not involve his teammates like he really could have. If the Lakers are going to win this series, then Kobe is going to have to step his game up a notch from last year. There is no doubt that Kobe has the ability to do it, and all things point at him being able to do it, but it actually being done is the important thing.
This is a very difficult series to predict. The Magic do present a lot of problems for the Lakers as far as matchups go, and if one x-factor isn't working, they at least can have another x-factor go their way and can still manage to have an advantage. However, there is a good chance that neither x-factor can go their way, and in that case they are in serious trouble. The Lakers are in the finals for a very good reason. They didn't steamroll over the west like predicted, but they were the best team in the west, easily. The Magic, on the other hand were arguably the best team in the east, but you could just as easily say that they made it to the finals based on matchup problems. However, these matchup problems still exist for the Lakers, so it isn't this is going to be a completely different beast for them.
The final prediction here is the Lakers in 7, although with all the different factors for each of these teams, it could be the Magic in 5 or the Lakers even in 4, it's just too hard to say for sure, but the advantage here is going to go to the Lakers.
(note, I hope I'm wrong)
There will be two major x-factors for the finals this season. The first is their three point shooting for the Magic. When they're making their three point shots, they generally win their games. When they aren't hitting them, they don't usually win their games. The next x-factor for this series is, of all people, Andrew Bynum. The young center is going to have a lot on his plate going up against Dwight Howard. If he gets into foul trouble early on in games, then it could be curtains for the Lakers. The Lakers without Bynum were as soft as they came last year in the finals against Kendrick Perkins and Kevin Garnett. Nothing against Garnett, but it's more the versatility of his offense that makes him a threat. Now it's Dwight Howard down there, and if the Lakers put the same two guys up against him as they did last year to Perkins and Garnett, then the Lakers could seriously be in trouble. If the Magic are not hitting their three point shots, this is one thing that could keep them alive, as they could put Marcin Gortat on the floor with Howard, which has been proven to be a strong duo when they're looking to gain an advantage down low. Gasol and Odom will be way too soft to stop them.
Another major issue in this series, but not necessarily an x-factor is going to be Kobe Bryant. Last year in the finals Kobe did not have his best series. He had a couple of good games, but as a whole did not shoot the ball well and did not involve his teammates like he really could have. If the Lakers are going to win this series, then Kobe is going to have to step his game up a notch from last year. There is no doubt that Kobe has the ability to do it, and all things point at him being able to do it, but it actually being done is the important thing.
This is a very difficult series to predict. The Magic do present a lot of problems for the Lakers as far as matchups go, and if one x-factor isn't working, they at least can have another x-factor go their way and can still manage to have an advantage. However, there is a good chance that neither x-factor can go their way, and in that case they are in serious trouble. The Lakers are in the finals for a very good reason. They didn't steamroll over the west like predicted, but they were the best team in the west, easily. The Magic, on the other hand were arguably the best team in the east, but you could just as easily say that they made it to the finals based on matchup problems. However, these matchup problems still exist for the Lakers, so it isn't this is going to be a completely different beast for them.
The final prediction here is the Lakers in 7, although with all the different factors for each of these teams, it could be the Magic in 5 or the Lakers even in 4, it's just too hard to say for sure, but the advantage here is going to go to the Lakers.
(note, I hope I'm wrong)
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Draft Order Decided, Early Lottery Mock
With the NBA Draft Lottery taking place earlier tonight, this is the time to go ahead and put forth a mock of the lottery. This isn't as much of what the teams will actually do, as there are a lot of workouts that have to happen still, but it's what really makes the most sense for the teams in the lottery.
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin 6'10" 252 lbs. PF
Yes the Clippers do have Zach Randolph, but he has never translated into team success. In fact, teams have regularly been very poor when he has played for them. The reason for this is not only that he doesn't play defense, but that the man is a black hole on offense, and his percentages really are not even good enough for him to be that. Blake Griffin, on the other hand is a power forward with better height and athleticism than Randolph, but one that while not a great defender yet, at least plays with effort on the defensive end and has the athletic ability and strength to become a very good defender. Everyone knows what Griffin can do on the offensive end, although he really can do even more. Too many people underrate his jump shot, which out to about fifteen feet is nearly automatic. Griffin won't be a superstar right away, but he's going to be good off the bat, and the guy just has too strong of a work ethic, is too strong, is too athletic, and is too smart to not turn into a very good power forward in the future.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Ricky Rubio 6'3" 180 lbs. PG
Rubio is the clear cut second best player in this year's draft. A future stud point guard, Rubio has all the skills to really help make everyone on a team better, and he's only eighteen years old. Memphis does have Mike Conley already, but so far he has not panned out as hoped, although he still has plenty of time. However, they should go ahead and maybe package Conley out of town and try to get a decent power forward in return and then just go ahead and draft Rubio here, he's too far ahead of those behind him to pass up on, much like Blake Griffin at the one spot.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden 6'5" 220 lbs. SG
This is where things start to get blurry and teams should start to draft based on team needs. The Thunder have two areas where they could improve. At shooting guard and at center. While Russell Westbrook does play more like a shooting guard than a point guard, he does have the skill to develop his game into more of a point guard style and let someone like Harden come in and take over at the two. Thabeet isn't anything more than a shot blocker right now, and the Thunder really have a chance to make some noise if they can get someone who can contribute more now rather than later, and Harden is very clearly NBA ready enough to come in and make a difference right away.
4. Sacramento Kings - Hasheem Thabeet 7'3" 265 lbs. C
They already have Spencer Hawes at center, but Thabeet is something different. Thabeet is that huge presence down low where Hawes is more of a high post center. This gives the Kings a versatile punch at the center spot and can also give them a nice rotation of big men with Jason Thompson as well. There is still some distance for Thabeet to go, as he will be a project, but he's also good enough that he'll be able to come in and at least provide some help almost right away.
5. Washington Wizards - Jordan Hill 6'10" 235 lbs. PF
Antawn Jamison is getting old, no one will deny that. Hill is going to be a bit of a project, little doubt about that. However, within a couple of years Hill will be ready to really compete at the NBA level while Jamison will be well into his decline. This just works too well for the Wizards in the future. Should be an interesting front line for the Wizards in the future with Hill and McGee as their four and five.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Brandon Jennings 6'1" 170 lbs. PG
Minnesota has several needs, but point guard is one of the biggest ones. Sebastian Telfair isn't a bad point guard, but you can really improve on him as far as starting goes. While Jennings still does have to prove himself, he's a guy who could potentially be a very good point guard. Recent reports say that he's improved his passing by leaps and bounds and really almost looks like a pass first point guard in Europe, which with the bigs that Minnesota has, is exactly what they need.
7. Golden State Warriors - DeMar DeRozan 6'6" 210 lbs. SG
At this point you don't pass up on a guy like DeRozan. Sure, there's some questions to him, but the guy has the through the roof potential and just overall skill to really become a star in the league. In Golden State he might wind up as more of a small forward type, but he'd fit in great with Golden State's uptempo style of play.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry 6'1" 180 lbs. PG/SG
This is one where what teams are saying comes into play. Rumor has it that the Knicks have already guaranteed that if he's there, they'll draft him. Curry fits in well with the D'Antoni fast paced offensive style though. He's a great shooter who was only quieted in college when there were at least 3 people guarding him. In New York he has a chance to really put up some fast points.
9. Toronto Raptors - Wayne Ellington 6'5" 194 lbs. SG
Ellington has a great jump shot and is solid everywhere else. In Toronto he should fit in very well with the current roster and fit in well with the style of play as well.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Jonny Flynn 6' 185 lbs. PG
The Bucks do have Ridnour and Sessions, but Ridnour doesn't play defense and Sessions is very inconsistent. They can likely trade away Sessions for something helpful elsewhere and use Flynn eventually as their starter. Ridnour makes a good backup, but also can step in for the time being until Flynn is ready. Flynn is a point guard who can come in and score, or he can distribute. On offense he's just tough to stop. On defense he is fairly undersized, but he's also pretty strong and can use that strength to his advantage.
11. New Jersey Nets - Earl Clark 6'10" 230 lbs. SF/PF
The Nets look pretty weak at small forward, which is the position that Clark is best suited to play. He's tall for a small forward, but he has the skillset for that position. He'll not only eventually be able to be a good small forward, but also create matchup problems for other teams.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson 6'4" 210 lbs. SG
Henderson will give the Bobcats a good option off the bench at the two. He's very athletic and pretty solid all over the board.
13. Indiana Pacers - Chase Budinger 6'7" 218 lbs. SG/SF
Budinger can give the Pacers a wing off the bench who can shoot the lights out and dazzle the fans with his athletic abilities. He doesn't dribble well or move very fast, but he has room to improve, and again, he can really shoot the lights out.
14. Phoenix Suns - Eric Maynor 6'3" 180 lbs. PG
This is a tough pick between Lawson and Maynor. While Lawson looks like he'll be a solid point guard who can wind up being a solid starter, Maynor is a bit more of a risk, but with a higher reward, as some scouts see him turning into a real star. It's no secret that with Nash showing his age more and more every year, the Suns are hoping to find someone to replace him in the future. They took a bit of a risk on Dragic last year, and while Dragic didn't have the best season, he did do some things rather well. However, just in case he doesn't work out, it's good to have someone else there, and if both of them look good, then it never hurts to be able to trade away a good point guard.
It's more than likely that this board will change by the next mock draft once we get closer to the actual draft. There will be an extra mock added to the usual 3 done, in fact there will probably be a lot of mocks posted before the draft or just changing positions.
1. LA Clippers - Blake Griffin 6'10" 252 lbs. PF
Yes the Clippers do have Zach Randolph, but he has never translated into team success. In fact, teams have regularly been very poor when he has played for them. The reason for this is not only that he doesn't play defense, but that the man is a black hole on offense, and his percentages really are not even good enough for him to be that. Blake Griffin, on the other hand is a power forward with better height and athleticism than Randolph, but one that while not a great defender yet, at least plays with effort on the defensive end and has the athletic ability and strength to become a very good defender. Everyone knows what Griffin can do on the offensive end, although he really can do even more. Too many people underrate his jump shot, which out to about fifteen feet is nearly automatic. Griffin won't be a superstar right away, but he's going to be good off the bat, and the guy just has too strong of a work ethic, is too strong, is too athletic, and is too smart to not turn into a very good power forward in the future.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Ricky Rubio 6'3" 180 lbs. PG
Rubio is the clear cut second best player in this year's draft. A future stud point guard, Rubio has all the skills to really help make everyone on a team better, and he's only eighteen years old. Memphis does have Mike Conley already, but so far he has not panned out as hoped, although he still has plenty of time. However, they should go ahead and maybe package Conley out of town and try to get a decent power forward in return and then just go ahead and draft Rubio here, he's too far ahead of those behind him to pass up on, much like Blake Griffin at the one spot.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder - James Harden 6'5" 220 lbs. SG
This is where things start to get blurry and teams should start to draft based on team needs. The Thunder have two areas where they could improve. At shooting guard and at center. While Russell Westbrook does play more like a shooting guard than a point guard, he does have the skill to develop his game into more of a point guard style and let someone like Harden come in and take over at the two. Thabeet isn't anything more than a shot blocker right now, and the Thunder really have a chance to make some noise if they can get someone who can contribute more now rather than later, and Harden is very clearly NBA ready enough to come in and make a difference right away.
4. Sacramento Kings - Hasheem Thabeet 7'3" 265 lbs. C
They already have Spencer Hawes at center, but Thabeet is something different. Thabeet is that huge presence down low where Hawes is more of a high post center. This gives the Kings a versatile punch at the center spot and can also give them a nice rotation of big men with Jason Thompson as well. There is still some distance for Thabeet to go, as he will be a project, but he's also good enough that he'll be able to come in and at least provide some help almost right away.
5. Washington Wizards - Jordan Hill 6'10" 235 lbs. PF
Antawn Jamison is getting old, no one will deny that. Hill is going to be a bit of a project, little doubt about that. However, within a couple of years Hill will be ready to really compete at the NBA level while Jamison will be well into his decline. This just works too well for the Wizards in the future. Should be an interesting front line for the Wizards in the future with Hill and McGee as their four and five.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Brandon Jennings 6'1" 170 lbs. PG
Minnesota has several needs, but point guard is one of the biggest ones. Sebastian Telfair isn't a bad point guard, but you can really improve on him as far as starting goes. While Jennings still does have to prove himself, he's a guy who could potentially be a very good point guard. Recent reports say that he's improved his passing by leaps and bounds and really almost looks like a pass first point guard in Europe, which with the bigs that Minnesota has, is exactly what they need.
7. Golden State Warriors - DeMar DeRozan 6'6" 210 lbs. SG
At this point you don't pass up on a guy like DeRozan. Sure, there's some questions to him, but the guy has the through the roof potential and just overall skill to really become a star in the league. In Golden State he might wind up as more of a small forward type, but he'd fit in great with Golden State's uptempo style of play.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry 6'1" 180 lbs. PG/SG
This is one where what teams are saying comes into play. Rumor has it that the Knicks have already guaranteed that if he's there, they'll draft him. Curry fits in well with the D'Antoni fast paced offensive style though. He's a great shooter who was only quieted in college when there were at least 3 people guarding him. In New York he has a chance to really put up some fast points.
9. Toronto Raptors - Wayne Ellington 6'5" 194 lbs. SG
Ellington has a great jump shot and is solid everywhere else. In Toronto he should fit in very well with the current roster and fit in well with the style of play as well.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Jonny Flynn 6' 185 lbs. PG
The Bucks do have Ridnour and Sessions, but Ridnour doesn't play defense and Sessions is very inconsistent. They can likely trade away Sessions for something helpful elsewhere and use Flynn eventually as their starter. Ridnour makes a good backup, but also can step in for the time being until Flynn is ready. Flynn is a point guard who can come in and score, or he can distribute. On offense he's just tough to stop. On defense he is fairly undersized, but he's also pretty strong and can use that strength to his advantage.
11. New Jersey Nets - Earl Clark 6'10" 230 lbs. SF/PF
The Nets look pretty weak at small forward, which is the position that Clark is best suited to play. He's tall for a small forward, but he has the skillset for that position. He'll not only eventually be able to be a good small forward, but also create matchup problems for other teams.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson 6'4" 210 lbs. SG
Henderson will give the Bobcats a good option off the bench at the two. He's very athletic and pretty solid all over the board.
13. Indiana Pacers - Chase Budinger 6'7" 218 lbs. SG/SF
Budinger can give the Pacers a wing off the bench who can shoot the lights out and dazzle the fans with his athletic abilities. He doesn't dribble well or move very fast, but he has room to improve, and again, he can really shoot the lights out.
14. Phoenix Suns - Eric Maynor 6'3" 180 lbs. PG
This is a tough pick between Lawson and Maynor. While Lawson looks like he'll be a solid point guard who can wind up being a solid starter, Maynor is a bit more of a risk, but with a higher reward, as some scouts see him turning into a real star. It's no secret that with Nash showing his age more and more every year, the Suns are hoping to find someone to replace him in the future. They took a bit of a risk on Dragic last year, and while Dragic didn't have the best season, he did do some things rather well. However, just in case he doesn't work out, it's good to have someone else there, and if both of them look good, then it never hurts to be able to trade away a good point guard.
It's more than likely that this board will change by the next mock draft once we get closer to the actual draft. There will be an extra mock added to the usual 3 done, in fact there will probably be a lot of mocks posted before the draft or just changing positions.
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