Draft picks with the most to prove:
Gordon Heyward, Jazz (9)
Heyward was taken higher than expected by the Jazz, and with big men like Cole Aldrich and Ed Davis on the board, which is Utah's biggest need, they might regret taking Heyward. He didn't go up against high level athletes consistently in college, so it'll be interesting to see how he does.
Paul George, Pacers (10),Luke Babbitt, Trailblazers (16)
Neither George or Babbitt was considered any more than a borderline first round pick at the end of the season, but workouts and revisions were favorable to them, and they went much higher than expected. George needs to show he can use his many skills consistently while Babbitt has to show he's got the physical abilities to compete in the NBA.
Larry Sanders, Milwaukee (15)
No one is expecting Sanders to come in and be dominant, he's more of a project, but he needs to show he's got the potential he was drafted on. Another question about him is if he's strong enough to guard 4s, and just how far he has to go in that respect.
Eric Bledsoe, L.A. Clippers (18), Avery Bradley, Boston (19), Elliot Williams, Trailblazers (22)
Bledsoe, Bradley, and Williams are the three highest profile combo guards in the draft, and each one will be under pressure to prove that they can either run the point or produce as undersized 2 guards. Bledsoe is the most experienced point guard, while Bradley is expected to learn and be able to check 2s. Williams is interesting because we don't know Portland's plans for him.
Trevor Booker, Washington (23)
Brooker owes DeJuan Blair one. Because of the success that the undersized Blair had last year, using only length, muscle, and desire, the Wizards took a chance on him in the first round. Booker doesn't have the crazy length of Blair, but he's a better athlete. He needs to show he's not going to be a liability on defense while also being able to produce on offense, despite giving up inches. By the way, Booker has a better standing and max reach than Blake Griffin.
Greivis Vasquez, Memphis (28)
Vasquez clearly lacks the footspeed to be a good defender in the NBA, but he needs to show to be able to do an okay job. He may have to do it with smarts and within a system of team, but he can't be a sieve, Memphis can't afford it.
Lazar Heyward, Minnesota (30)
Heyward was a borderline mid second round pick, so taking him at the end of the first was an interesting move by Minnesota. Especially because they have to give him guaranteed money. He needs to show he's worthy of the pick. Does he have the size to play the 3? Or the quickness for the 2?
Daniel Orton, Orlando (29), Hassan Whiteside, Sacramento (33), Jerome Jordan, Milwaukee (44), Ryan Richards, San Antonio (49), Solomon Alabi, Toronto (50)
Call this the mystery (big) man group. Orton had limited production, got a lot of hype, but fell. Whiteside has all the physical tools, but had character issues. Richards impressed people at the Combine, but didn't excel in low-level Euro leagues. Jordon and Alabi have great size and emerging skill sets, but questions about their toughness and motors dropped them. They all have something to prove this summer.
Dexter Pittman, Miami (32) and Tiny Gallon, Milwaukee (47)
Both Pittman and Gallon are very talented players, Pittman is unstoppable if he catches the ball near the rim, and Gallon is a very good shooter. However, neither guy is in great shape. Both guys top 3 bills and that may limit their ability to produce consistently. If they can stay in shape and show they can play good minutes, they'll get a shot to make the roster.
Devin Ebanks, L.A. Lakers (43), Willie Warren, L.A. Clippers (54), Stanley Robinson, Orlando (59)
Ebanks, Warren, and Robinson all would have been lottery picks if they declared last year. They didn't, and they fell a lot. Needless to say, they have a lot to prove this summer.
Undrafted players who can make a roster:
Brian Zoubek, New Jersey
Zoubek isn't ever going to be more than a rebounder, but to make a roster he has to show he can rebound and defend at the next level and that his rebounding numbers weren't just a result of the system he played in.
Jon Scheyer, Washington
Scheyer is another guy who doesn't really do much except one thing: shoot. He's an ok passer, but not great, more solid. Plus he'll never be able to be a great defender. He may have a shot to make a roster based of IQ and intangibles however. Even if he's not the most talented, you know he'll always be ready to play.
Wayne Chism, New Jersey
Chism has a great motor and can shoot, rebound, and bang. He just doesn't have the athleticism. If he brings the same intensity and leadership to the summer league, he has a chance to make a roster.
Sherron Collins, Charlotte
Collins has a good chance to make the Bobcats because he's got the skills to be a solid backup and the Bobcats need a backup point guard. As long as his weight isn't an issue, and he doesn't have an alpha dog mentality, he should make the team.
Mikhail Torrance, Miami
Torrance claims he went undrafted because of concerns about his heart. Well, he better back that up and play like a player worthy of being drafted. And he certainly has that ability and can make a lean Heat team.
Charles Garcia, New York
Garcia has a lot of talent and could excel in the Knicks system because he can fly up and down the floor. Plus the Knicks need to add players because they only have a few now.
Sylven Landesburg, Sacramento
Landesburg has the body and game of a pro player, he just has some character concerns too. If he shows he not a headache, he has a great chance of making a team.
Manny Harris, Cleveland
I don't get how he went undrafted. He's super talented and has a game suited for the NBA. He should make a roster because he should have been drafted and is a better player than a lot of those drafted, including ones in the first round.
Jerome Randle, Washington
Randle is a impressive player. He's and excellent shooter (he shot 40 and 46% from the 3 the last two years), is a good passer, and get to the rim by anyone, the problem is he's only 5-10, 160. If he shows that size won't be a huge issue, he should make a team.
Art Parakhouski, Boston
Parakhouski has a nice inside game and could be a force on the boards as a backup for someone. If he shows that his quickness won't be an issue, I can see him making a team. Especially one like Boston, who need a backup center.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Draft Breakdown + Grades
Note: projected rotations are based solely on signed players, draft picks, rights players, and the teams free agents I see returning.
Atlanta Hawks
Draft picks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (27, from New Jersey), Pape Sy SF, France (53)
Crawford is a good fit if the Hawks can't resign Joe Johnson because he can fill Jamal Crawford's role as instant offense off the bench, while he moves to the starting lineup. Pape Sy is a stash pick but he's not a very good prospect. Maybe they know something we don't, but right now it doesn't look like he'll ever come to the NBA. It would have been nice for the Hawks to draft some size, but I guess there wasn't anyone they like. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mike Bibby/Jeff Teague
SG: Jamal Crawford/Jordan Crawford
SF: Marvin Williams/Josh Childress
PF: Josh Smith/Joe Smith
C: Al Horford/Zaza Pachulia
Boston Celtics
Draft picks: Avery Bradley G, Texas (19) Luke Harengody PF, Notre Dame (52)
The Celtics got two guys who should be able to make their roster, and one who should contribute right away. Bradley can back up Rajon Rondo at the point as well as play alongside him, creating one of the toughest defensive backcourts in the League. Harengody is a mix between Glen Davis and Brian Scalabrine; you can expect him to contribute likewise. Grade: BBradley
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Rajon Rondo/Avery Bradley
SG: Tony Allen
SF: Paul Pierce
PF: Kevin Garnett/Glen Davis/Luke Harengody
C: Kendrick Perkins
Charlotte Bobcats
Draft Picks: None
The Bobcats have no picks this year, and considering that they have no cap room and need scoring, that's a bad thing. Grade: F
Projected rotation right now:
PG: D.J. Augustine
SG: Stephen Jackson/Gerald Henderson
SF: Gerald Wallace/Derrick Brown
PF: Boris Diaw/Tyrus Thomas
C: Nazr Mohamed/Tyson Chandler
Chicago Bulls
Draft picks: None
The Bulls traded their picks for cap room to get space to sign two max guys. If they get it done, they get an A+, if not, nothing changes.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Derrick Rose
SG: ?
SF: Luol Deng/James Johnson
PF: Taj Gibson
C: Joakim Noah
Cleveland Cavaliers
Draft picks: None
The Cavs traded their picks for players that didn't help them win the title. Grade: N/A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mo Williams/Daniel Gibson
SG: Anthony Parker/Delonte West
SF: Jamario Moon/Danny Green
PF: Antwan Jamison/J.J. Hickson
C: Zydrunas Ilgauskas/Anderson Verajao
Dallas Mavericks
Draft picks: Dominique Jones SG, South Florida (25, from Memphis)
The Mavericks get this pick from Memphis and add another quality scorer who can give this teams some punch off the bench and hopefully help Jason Terry to be more consistent. However, they have a lot of wing players and could have used a big man. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jason Kidd/Roddy Beaubois
SG: Caron Butler/Jason Terry/Dominique Jones
SF: Shawn Marion
PF: Dirk Nowitzki/Eduardo Najera
C: Erick Dampier
Denver Nuggets
Draft picks: None
The Nuggets gave up their pick to get Ty Lawson, better than anything they could get at 23 so it was a good overall deal for them. Grade: N/A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Chauncey Billups/Ty Lawson
SG: Arron Afflalo/J.R. Smith
SF: Carmelo Anthony/Linas Kleiza
PF: Kenyon Martin
C: Nene/Chris Anderson
Detroit Pistons
Draft picks: Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown (7) Terrico White G, Mississippi (36)
The Pistons got the big guy they desperately need in Monroe and a versatile backup in White. Monroe's passing, defense, and rebounding will fit well with the Pistons, and if he can score consistently he'll be a very good player. White kind of duplicates Rodney Stuckey, but he'll be a valuable player if the Pistons can trade one of their guards. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Rodney Stuckey/Terrico White
SG: Richard Hamilton/Ben Gordon
SF: Tayshaun Prince/Austin Daye
PF: Jonas Jerebko/Charlie Villanueva
C: Greg Monroe/Kwame Brown
Golden State Warriors
Draft picks: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor (6)
I love Udoh as a player, but I think his max range was 9. At 6 is a big reach and, though his shot blocking and versatility on offense will be a nice fit in Golden State, he's a similar player to Anthony Randolph and Brandan Wright. He's not the big post defender they needed desperately. Grade: D
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Stephen Curry/C.J. Watson
SG: Monta Ellis/Anthony Morrow
SF: Kelenna Azubuike
PF: Anthony Randolph/Ekpe Udoh/Brandan Wright
C: Andris Biedrins/Ronny Turiaf
Houston Rockets
Draft picks: Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky (14)
The Rockets only had one pick in this draft and did a great job, getting one of the few guys I can see being a rotation player for years to come outside the top players. He'll fit in with their tough defensive style, help with their interior D and replace Carl Landry. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Aaron Brooks/Kyle Lowry
SG: Kevin Martin/Shane Battier
SF: Trevor Ariza/Chase Budinger
PF: Luis Scola/Patrick Patterson
C: Yao Ming/Jordan Hill
Indiana Pacers
Draft picks: Paul George G/F, Fresno State (10), Lance Stephenson SG, Cincinnati (40) Magnum Rolle PF/C, Louisiana Tech (51, from Oklahoma City)
The Pacers, uncharacteristically, went high risk high reward with this draft. George has tons of upside and skill, but coasts a lot, doesn't dominate, and could easily bust. Stephenson has an NBA and NBA skills, but is a character risk and could be a team killer. Rolle has a lot of potential and is a great shot blocker. I think he could be the missing athletic piece to the Pacers frontcourt, or not make the team. All in all, this draft could turn the Pacers into a contender, or kill a ton of careers. They're really jammed at the wings however, and have no point guard. I expect a trade coming. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: T.J. Ford
SG: Brandon Rush/Paul George/Lance Stephenson
SF: Danny Granger/Mike Dunleavy
PF: Troy Murphy/Tyler Hansbrough
C: Roy Hibbert/Jeff Foster
Los Angeles Clippers
Draft picks: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest (8), Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky (18, from Oklahoma City), Willie Warren G, Oklahoma (54)
The Clippers had a nice draft, filling needs without reaching and adding high upside players that could make their team a real contender if things go right. Though they normally don't for the Clippers. Aminu won't have a lot of pressure while he learns the 3, and can also play the 4. He'll be able to rebound, defend, and run the floor while the perimeter skills come. Bledsoe can back up Baron Davis, while Warren can backup Gordon. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Baron Davis/Eric Bledsoe
SG: Eric Gordon/Willie Warren
SF: Al-Farouq Aminu
PF: Blake Griffin
C: Chris Kamen/DeAndre Jordan
Los Angeles Lakers
Draft picks: Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia (43), Derrick Caracter PF, UTEP (58)
The rich get richer. The Lakers get two first round talents in the second round. Ebanks can fill a need as a back up small forward and improve his already considerable defensive talents by watching Ron Artest. He also will be a nice fit in the triangle because he moves well off the ball. If he can improve his shot like Trevor Ariza did, he'll be prefect of the Lakers. Caracter is yet another talented post scorer for the Lakers and gives them nice depth.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: ?/Derek Fisher
SG: Kobe Bryant
SF: Ron Artest/Devin Ebanks
PF: Pau Gasol/Lamar Odom/Derrick Caracter
C: Andrew Bynum
Memphis Grizzles
Draft picks: Xavier Henry G/F, Kansas (12), Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland (28)
The Grizzles had the biggest "meh" draft for me. They made two ok picks, but didn't do anything to blow me away one way or the other. However, if they can retain Rudy Gay, I'll like this draft a lot better. The Grizzles got almost to .500 last year despite having a terrible scoring bench and both Henry and Vasquez should instantly upgrade that and help them improve. If Gay leaves and Henry starts, it'll be less impressive to me. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mike Conley Jr./Greivis Vasquez
SG: O.J. Mayo/Sam Young
SF: Xavier Henry/DeMarre Carrol
PF: Zach Randolph/Darrell Arthur
C: Marc Gasol/Hasheem Thabeet
Miami Heat
Draft picks: Dexter Pittman C, Texas (32), Jarvis Varnado PF, Mississippi State (41), Da'Sean Butler SF, West Virginia (42)
The Miami Heat have two guys on their roster right now, so they need to fill it up with cheap 2nd round picks so they have space to sign 3 max guys. Pittman can be a beast if he stays in shape and loses 20 pounds. Varnado is Birdman at worst and Butler is a first rounder pre-injury and has is off the charts in the intangibles and IQ department; a perfect guy for a title team. I love these players because they work perfectly as role players playing off other stars. Their lineup is tough to figure out now because Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mario Chalmers
SG: Dwyane Wade
SF: Da'Sean Butler
PF: Michael Beasley/Jarvis Varnado
C: Dexter Pittman
Milwaukee Bucks
Draft picks: Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU (15), Darington Hobson SF, New Mexico State (37), Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa (44), Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma (47)
I really like the Bucks draft. They got four guys who should contribute and really beefed up their frontcourt. They also added Corey Maggette and Chris Douglas-Roberts via trade. Sanders and Jordon give them size and athleticism up front, while Hobson is a nice glue player, and Gallon is a high upside, skilled player. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Brandon Jennings/Luke Ridnour
SG: Michael Redd/Chris Douglas-Roberts
SF: Corey Maggette/Carlos Delfino/Darington Hobson
PF: Larry Sanders/Luc Ricard Mbah a Moute/Ersan Ilyasova
C: Andrew Bogut/Jerome Jordan
Minnesota Timberwolves
Draft picks: Wes Johnson SF, Syracuse (4), Lazar Heyward SF, Marquette (30, from Washington), Nemanja Bjelica SF, Serbia (35, from Washington), Paulo Prestes C, Brazil (45)
For David Kahn's sake, I hope he plans on trading at least one of his wing players because with Johnson, Heyward, Bjelica, Corey Brewer, and Martell Webster on the roster, there's a big jam at the wing. Johnson was a good pick, and the right pick, but why reach for a mid-late second rounder like Heyward? Or trade for Webster? The Timberwolves have too many needs to waste picks. Heyward isn't a bad player, but why not take Hassan Whiteside at 30 then get Heyward 45? I guess they're acquiring assets for a Al Jefferson trade, but who knows? Wes Johnson. if he gets to play at least, saves an F grade. Grade: D
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jonny Flynn/Ramon Sessions
SG: Corey Brewer/Martell Webster
SF: Wes Johnson/Lazar Heyward
PF: Al Jefferson/Kevin Love
C: Darko Milicic/Nikola Pekovic
New Jersey Nets
Draft picks: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech (3), Damion James SF, Texas (24, from Atlanta)
I like the Nets draft, they added one of the highest upside players in the draft in Favors and immediate impact player in James. Favors won't have a lot of pressure on him and can learn offense slowly, his rebounding and defense is NBA ready. This will be a good fit for James because the Nets really need a boost on the boards. They were 27th in the league in rebound margin. The Nets still have some work to do in free agency however, before they're ready to sniff the playoffs.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Devin Harris
SG: Courtney Lee
SF: Terrance Williams/Damion James
PF: Derrick Favors/Josh Boone
C: Brook Lopez
New Orleans Hornets
Draft picks: Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State (21, from Oklahoma City), Quincy Pondexter G/F, Washington (26, from Oklahoma City)
The Hornets did a great job in trading down to save money, and still getting young talent. Brackins is a talented scorer who's a lot like David West (so if he plays well, I wouldn't be surprised if West is available on the trade deadline) and gives New Orleans a much needed back up 4. Pondexter is also a NBA ready player, but also has some significant upside. He's a great slasher, a high energy defender, and leader. A nice pair of picks who can contribute for the Hornets and even start down the line. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Chris Paul/Darren Collison
SG: Marcus Thorton/Quincy Pondexter
SF: Peja Stojakovic/James Posey
PF: David West/Craig Brackins
C: Emeka Okafor
New York Knicks
Draft picks: Andy Rautins G, Syracuse (38), Landry Fields SF, Stanford (39)
I get the Rautins pick, he fits well, though the Knicks probably could have bought a later pick to get him, but the Fields pick is indefensible. I don't have a problem with him on the team, he very well be a great fit in their offense, but there was no reason to take him at 39. They could have taken a much better prospect there, and signed Fields as an undrafted free agent. It was such a waste using that pick on him and they missed out on much better players. Plus he plays the same position as Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, and LeBron, so when does he play, even if LeBron doesn't come? Grade: F
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Toney Douglas/Sergio Rodriguez
SG: Andy Rautins
SF: Wilson Chandler
PF: Danilo Gallinari
C: Eddy Curry
Oklahoma City Thunder
Draft picks: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas (11, from New Orleans), Tibor Pleiss C, Germany (31, from Atlanta), Latavious Williams SF, Tulsa 66ers (48, from Miami), Ryan Reid PF, Florida State (57, from Indiana)
The Thunder had a spectacular draft, doing what they always do: filling their biggest need with the best player available, adding a high upside project, and getting assets for the future. I'm not a big Aldrich fan for most teams, but I love him on the Thunder because all he has to do is rebound, defend, and make outlet passes, which he can do. He could even be a solid low post scorer down the line. Pleiss is a really nice prospect who can develop in Europe and help in a year or two, Williams and Reid won't make the team and Reid is inexplicable, but since the Thunder definitely don't have room for them on the roster, it doesn't really matter. They also turned the number 18 pick into a future Clippers number 1, which most likely will be in the lottery and in a deeper draft. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Russell Westbrook/Eric Maynor
SG: Thabo Sefolosha/James Harden
SF: Kevin Durant
PF: Jeff Green/Serge Ibaka
C: Cole Aldrich/Nenad Kristic
Orlando Magic
Draft picks: Daniel Orton C, Kentucky (29), Stanley Robinson SF, UCONN (59)
The Magic got good value at their picks and two players that should make the roster. Orton could possible lead to Marcin Gortat being traded down the line, while Robinson can potentially replace Matt Barnes. There grade would be higher if they got players who can contribute right away. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jameer Nelson
SG: Vince Carter/J.J. Redick
SF: Mickael Pietrus/Stanley Robinson
PF: Rashard Lewis/Fran Vasquez
C: Dwight Howard/Marcin Gortat
Philadelphia 76ers
Draft picks: Evan Turner G/F, Ohio State (2)
The Sixers did what they had to, and there really isn't that much to say about this except the only reason they didn't get an A+ is because they could get rid of Elton Brand's contract. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jrue Holiday/Lou Williams
SG: Evan Turner/Willie Green
SF: Andre Igoudala/Andres Nocioni
PF: Elton Brand/Thaddeus Young
C: Marreese Speights/Spencer Hawes
Phoenix Suns
Draft picks: Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech (46), Dwayne Collins PF, Miami (60)
The Suns got two tough, athletic defensive minded power forwards who will run the floor well and finish strong, but they won't come close to replacing the offense of Amare Stoudemire. I'd rather have seen them take a skilled low post scorer like Derrick Caracter instead, but the Suns offense has done wonders before: Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Steve Nash/Goran Dragic
SG: Jason Richardson/Leandro Barbosa
SF: Grant Hill/Jared Dudley
PF: Gani Lawal/Louis Amundson
C: Robin Lopez/Channing Frye
Portland Trailblazers
Draft picks: Luke Babbitt F, Nevada (16, from Minnesota), Elliot Williams G, Memphis (22), Armon Johnson PG, Nevada (34)
I love the Babbitt pick, especially since they got rid of Martel Webster, who was redundant with Nicolas Batum, so they'll get a nice matchup guy in Babbitt. Batum is an emerging stopper and Babbitt can give them some serious offensive punch. I'm not so sure about Williams and Johnson picks though. Williams is a tweener and Johnson duplicates Jerryd Bayless, while both guys might struggle to find minutes in a crowded backcourt. Grade: B-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Andre Miller/Jerryd Bayless
SG: Brandon Roy/Rudy Fernandez
SF: Nicolas Batum/Luke Babbitt
PF: LaMarcus Aldridge/Dante Cunningham
C: Marcus Camby/Greg Oden
Sacramento Kings
Draft picks: DeMarcus Cousins C, Kentucky (5), Hassan Whiteside PF/C, Marshall (33)
The Kings stayed in their spots, didn't make any moves, and ended up with two of the top 5 upside players in the draft. Plus the two biggest headcase risks at the same time. Cousins has all the talent in the world, and Whiteside is the best physical specimen in the draft of the big men. I think Whiteside has the mobility to play power forward, and so the Kings could have an unbelievably talented front court in a few years if things work out. Though I expect Whiteside to start out in the D league. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Beno Udrih
SG: Tyreke Evans/Fransisco Garcia
SF: Donte Green/Omri Casspi
PF: Carl Landry/Jason Thompson
C: Samuel Dalembert/DeMarcus Cousins
San Antonio Spurs
Draft picks: James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State (20), Ryan Richards F/C, England (49)
The Spurs, once again, had a really nice draft. The get a guy in Anderson who'll give them what they hoped Richard Jefferson would as well as being a reliable scorer whenever needed. The Spurs have a good track record with developing raw talent, and Richards is definitely that. I expect him start out in the D-league, but with Matt Bonner possibly leaving, he could play as a backup center. Grade: B+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Tony Parker/George Hill
SG: James Anderson/Manu Ginobili
SF: Richard Jefferson
PF: Tim Duncan/DeJuan Blair
C: Antonio McDyess/Ryan Richards
Toronto Raptors
Draft picks: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina (13), Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (50, from Dallas)
I really like the Raptors draft, though at least with Davis, they didn't really do anything except let him fall to them. They needed a potential Chris Bosh replacement and Davis is the second best pure 4 prospect in the draft. He won't have to start either, because Andrei Bargnani can start at the 4, while Alabi can give them the shot blocking presence they need, a nice get in the second round. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jose Calderon/Jarrett Jack
SG: DeMar DeRozan/Marco Belinelli
SF: Hedo Turkgolu/Sonny Weems
PF: Andrei Bargnani/Ed Davis
C: Solomon Alabi/Rasho Nesterovic
Utah Jazz
Draft picks: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler (9), Jeremy Evans SF, Western Kentucky (55)
I don't dislike Heyward's fit with the Jazz, he'll work out well there, but they needed size and length not another wing who'll struggle to defend. Ed Davis would have been a better pick. Evans is a late round flier, but considering the success the Jazz had with Wesley Matthews, who knows what will happen there. Grade: C-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Deron Williams/Ronnie Price
SG: Wesley Matthews
SF: C.J. Miles/Gordon Heyward
PF: Andrei Kirilenko/Paul Millsap
C: Mehmet Okur/Kosta Koufus
Washington Wizards
Draft picks: John Wall PG, Kentucky (1), Kevin Seraphin PF, France (17, from Chicago), Trevor Booker PF, Clemson (23, from Minnesota), Hamady N'diaye C, Rutgers (56, from Minnesota)
There's not much more to say about Wall, he was the obvious pick and they made him. He can turn them around. Seraphin is an interesting pick, and I like it. The Wizards clearly aren't trying to win now, so why not take a guy with awesome upside and the right mentality? He's a physical beast and like to play tough and bang, just what you need. The same can be said about Trevor Booker, who's a monster with a motor that never stops, he'll be a nice back up and leader. N'diaye could make the roster with his defense, but it might be a long shot. I'm not so sure about getting Yi Jianlian and Kirk Hinrich, but I suppose Yi will give them some flexibility on offense and Hinrich can mentor Wall like he did Derrick Rose.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: John Wall/Kirk Hinrich
SG: Gilbert Arenas/Nick Young
SF: Josh Howard/Al Thorton
PF: Andray Blatche/Trevor Booker
C: JaVale McGee/Yi Jianlian
Atlanta Hawks
Draft picks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (27, from New Jersey), Pape Sy SF, France (53)
Crawford is a good fit if the Hawks can't resign Joe Johnson because he can fill Jamal Crawford's role as instant offense off the bench, while he moves to the starting lineup. Pape Sy is a stash pick but he's not a very good prospect. Maybe they know something we don't, but right now it doesn't look like he'll ever come to the NBA. It would have been nice for the Hawks to draft some size, but I guess there wasn't anyone they like. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mike Bibby/Jeff Teague
SG: Jamal Crawford/Jordan Crawford
SF: Marvin Williams/Josh Childress
PF: Josh Smith/Joe Smith
C: Al Horford/Zaza Pachulia
Boston Celtics
Draft picks: Avery Bradley G, Texas (19) Luke Harengody PF, Notre Dame (52)
The Celtics got two guys who should be able to make their roster, and one who should contribute right away. Bradley can back up Rajon Rondo at the point as well as play alongside him, creating one of the toughest defensive backcourts in the League. Harengody is a mix between Glen Davis and Brian Scalabrine; you can expect him to contribute likewise. Grade: BBradley
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Rajon Rondo/Avery Bradley
SG: Tony Allen
SF: Paul Pierce
PF: Kevin Garnett/Glen Davis/Luke Harengody
C: Kendrick Perkins
Charlotte Bobcats
Draft Picks: None
The Bobcats have no picks this year, and considering that they have no cap room and need scoring, that's a bad thing. Grade: F
Projected rotation right now:
PG: D.J. Augustine
SG: Stephen Jackson/Gerald Henderson
SF: Gerald Wallace/Derrick Brown
PF: Boris Diaw/Tyrus Thomas
C: Nazr Mohamed/Tyson Chandler
Chicago Bulls
Draft picks: None
The Bulls traded their picks for cap room to get space to sign two max guys. If they get it done, they get an A+, if not, nothing changes.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Derrick Rose
SG: ?
SF: Luol Deng/James Johnson
PF: Taj Gibson
C: Joakim Noah
Cleveland Cavaliers
Draft picks: None
The Cavs traded their picks for players that didn't help them win the title. Grade: N/A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mo Williams/Daniel Gibson
SG: Anthony Parker/Delonte West
SF: Jamario Moon/Danny Green
PF: Antwan Jamison/J.J. Hickson
C: Zydrunas Ilgauskas/Anderson Verajao
Dallas Mavericks
Draft picks: Dominique Jones SG, South Florida (25, from Memphis)
The Mavericks get this pick from Memphis and add another quality scorer who can give this teams some punch off the bench and hopefully help Jason Terry to be more consistent. However, they have a lot of wing players and could have used a big man. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jason Kidd/Roddy Beaubois
SG: Caron Butler/Jason Terry/Dominique Jones
SF: Shawn Marion
PF: Dirk Nowitzki/Eduardo Najera
C: Erick Dampier
Denver Nuggets
Draft picks: None
The Nuggets gave up their pick to get Ty Lawson, better than anything they could get at 23 so it was a good overall deal for them. Grade: N/A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Chauncey Billups/Ty Lawson
SG: Arron Afflalo/J.R. Smith
SF: Carmelo Anthony/Linas Kleiza
PF: Kenyon Martin
C: Nene/Chris Anderson
Detroit Pistons
Draft picks: Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown (7) Terrico White G, Mississippi (36)
The Pistons got the big guy they desperately need in Monroe and a versatile backup in White. Monroe's passing, defense, and rebounding will fit well with the Pistons, and if he can score consistently he'll be a very good player. White kind of duplicates Rodney Stuckey, but he'll be a valuable player if the Pistons can trade one of their guards. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Rodney Stuckey/Terrico White
SG: Richard Hamilton/Ben Gordon
SF: Tayshaun Prince/Austin Daye
PF: Jonas Jerebko/Charlie Villanueva
C: Greg Monroe/Kwame Brown
Golden State Warriors
Draft picks: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor (6)
I love Udoh as a player, but I think his max range was 9. At 6 is a big reach and, though his shot blocking and versatility on offense will be a nice fit in Golden State, he's a similar player to Anthony Randolph and Brandan Wright. He's not the big post defender they needed desperately. Grade: D
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Stephen Curry/C.J. Watson
SG: Monta Ellis/Anthony Morrow
SF: Kelenna Azubuike
PF: Anthony Randolph/Ekpe Udoh/Brandan Wright
C: Andris Biedrins/Ronny Turiaf
Houston Rockets
Draft picks: Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky (14)
The Rockets only had one pick in this draft and did a great job, getting one of the few guys I can see being a rotation player for years to come outside the top players. He'll fit in with their tough defensive style, help with their interior D and replace Carl Landry. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Aaron Brooks/Kyle Lowry
SG: Kevin Martin/Shane Battier
SF: Trevor Ariza/Chase Budinger
PF: Luis Scola/Patrick Patterson
C: Yao Ming/Jordan Hill
Indiana Pacers
Draft picks: Paul George G/F, Fresno State (10), Lance Stephenson SG, Cincinnati (40) Magnum Rolle PF/C, Louisiana Tech (51, from Oklahoma City)
The Pacers, uncharacteristically, went high risk high reward with this draft. George has tons of upside and skill, but coasts a lot, doesn't dominate, and could easily bust. Stephenson has an NBA and NBA skills, but is a character risk and could be a team killer. Rolle has a lot of potential and is a great shot blocker. I think he could be the missing athletic piece to the Pacers frontcourt, or not make the team. All in all, this draft could turn the Pacers into a contender, or kill a ton of careers. They're really jammed at the wings however, and have no point guard. I expect a trade coming. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: T.J. Ford
SG: Brandon Rush/Paul George/Lance Stephenson
SF: Danny Granger/Mike Dunleavy
PF: Troy Murphy/Tyler Hansbrough
C: Roy Hibbert/Jeff Foster
Los Angeles Clippers
Draft picks: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest (8), Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky (18, from Oklahoma City), Willie Warren G, Oklahoma (54)
The Clippers had a nice draft, filling needs without reaching and adding high upside players that could make their team a real contender if things go right. Though they normally don't for the Clippers. Aminu won't have a lot of pressure while he learns the 3, and can also play the 4. He'll be able to rebound, defend, and run the floor while the perimeter skills come. Bledsoe can back up Baron Davis, while Warren can backup Gordon. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Baron Davis/Eric Bledsoe
SG: Eric Gordon/Willie Warren
SF: Al-Farouq Aminu
PF: Blake Griffin
C: Chris Kamen/DeAndre Jordan
Los Angeles Lakers
Draft picks: Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia (43), Derrick Caracter PF, UTEP (58)
The rich get richer. The Lakers get two first round talents in the second round. Ebanks can fill a need as a back up small forward and improve his already considerable defensive talents by watching Ron Artest. He also will be a nice fit in the triangle because he moves well off the ball. If he can improve his shot like Trevor Ariza did, he'll be prefect of the Lakers. Caracter is yet another talented post scorer for the Lakers and gives them nice depth.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: ?/Derek Fisher
SG: Kobe Bryant
SF: Ron Artest/Devin Ebanks
PF: Pau Gasol/Lamar Odom/Derrick Caracter
C: Andrew Bynum
Memphis Grizzles
Draft picks: Xavier Henry G/F, Kansas (12), Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland (28)
The Grizzles had the biggest "meh" draft for me. They made two ok picks, but didn't do anything to blow me away one way or the other. However, if they can retain Rudy Gay, I'll like this draft a lot better. The Grizzles got almost to .500 last year despite having a terrible scoring bench and both Henry and Vasquez should instantly upgrade that and help them improve. If Gay leaves and Henry starts, it'll be less impressive to me. Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mike Conley Jr./Greivis Vasquez
SG: O.J. Mayo/Sam Young
SF: Xavier Henry/DeMarre Carrol
PF: Zach Randolph/Darrell Arthur
C: Marc Gasol/Hasheem Thabeet
Miami Heat
Draft picks: Dexter Pittman C, Texas (32), Jarvis Varnado PF, Mississippi State (41), Da'Sean Butler SF, West Virginia (42)
The Miami Heat have two guys on their roster right now, so they need to fill it up with cheap 2nd round picks so they have space to sign 3 max guys. Pittman can be a beast if he stays in shape and loses 20 pounds. Varnado is Birdman at worst and Butler is a first rounder pre-injury and has is off the charts in the intangibles and IQ department; a perfect guy for a title team. I love these players because they work perfectly as role players playing off other stars. Their lineup is tough to figure out now because Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Mario Chalmers
SG: Dwyane Wade
SF: Da'Sean Butler
PF: Michael Beasley/Jarvis Varnado
C: Dexter Pittman
Milwaukee Bucks
Draft picks: Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU (15), Darington Hobson SF, New Mexico State (37), Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa (44), Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma (47)
I really like the Bucks draft. They got four guys who should contribute and really beefed up their frontcourt. They also added Corey Maggette and Chris Douglas-Roberts via trade. Sanders and Jordon give them size and athleticism up front, while Hobson is a nice glue player, and Gallon is a high upside, skilled player. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Brandon Jennings/Luke Ridnour
SG: Michael Redd/Chris Douglas-Roberts
SF: Corey Maggette/Carlos Delfino/Darington Hobson
PF: Larry Sanders/Luc Ricard Mbah a Moute/Ersan Ilyasova
C: Andrew Bogut/Jerome Jordan
Minnesota Timberwolves
Draft picks: Wes Johnson SF, Syracuse (4), Lazar Heyward SF, Marquette (30, from Washington), Nemanja Bjelica SF, Serbia (35, from Washington), Paulo Prestes C, Brazil (45)
For David Kahn's sake, I hope he plans on trading at least one of his wing players because with Johnson, Heyward, Bjelica, Corey Brewer, and Martell Webster on the roster, there's a big jam at the wing. Johnson was a good pick, and the right pick, but why reach for a mid-late second rounder like Heyward? Or trade for Webster? The Timberwolves have too many needs to waste picks. Heyward isn't a bad player, but why not take Hassan Whiteside at 30 then get Heyward 45? I guess they're acquiring assets for a Al Jefferson trade, but who knows? Wes Johnson. if he gets to play at least, saves an F grade. Grade: D
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jonny Flynn/Ramon Sessions
SG: Corey Brewer/Martell Webster
SF: Wes Johnson/Lazar Heyward
PF: Al Jefferson/Kevin Love
C: Darko Milicic/Nikola Pekovic
New Jersey Nets
Draft picks: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech (3), Damion James SF, Texas (24, from Atlanta)
I like the Nets draft, they added one of the highest upside players in the draft in Favors and immediate impact player in James. Favors won't have a lot of pressure on him and can learn offense slowly, his rebounding and defense is NBA ready. This will be a good fit for James because the Nets really need a boost on the boards. They were 27th in the league in rebound margin. The Nets still have some work to do in free agency however, before they're ready to sniff the playoffs.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Devin Harris
SG: Courtney Lee
SF: Terrance Williams/Damion James
PF: Derrick Favors/Josh Boone
C: Brook Lopez
New Orleans Hornets
Draft picks: Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State (21, from Oklahoma City), Quincy Pondexter G/F, Washington (26, from Oklahoma City)
The Hornets did a great job in trading down to save money, and still getting young talent. Brackins is a talented scorer who's a lot like David West (so if he plays well, I wouldn't be surprised if West is available on the trade deadline) and gives New Orleans a much needed back up 4. Pondexter is also a NBA ready player, but also has some significant upside. He's a great slasher, a high energy defender, and leader. A nice pair of picks who can contribute for the Hornets and even start down the line. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Chris Paul/Darren Collison
SG: Marcus Thorton/Quincy Pondexter
SF: Peja Stojakovic/James Posey
PF: David West/Craig Brackins
C: Emeka Okafor
New York Knicks
Draft picks: Andy Rautins G, Syracuse (38), Landry Fields SF, Stanford (39)
I get the Rautins pick, he fits well, though the Knicks probably could have bought a later pick to get him, but the Fields pick is indefensible. I don't have a problem with him on the team, he very well be a great fit in their offense, but there was no reason to take him at 39. They could have taken a much better prospect there, and signed Fields as an undrafted free agent. It was such a waste using that pick on him and they missed out on much better players. Plus he plays the same position as Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, and LeBron, so when does he play, even if LeBron doesn't come? Grade: F
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Toney Douglas/Sergio Rodriguez
SG: Andy Rautins
SF: Wilson Chandler
PF: Danilo Gallinari
C: Eddy Curry
Oklahoma City Thunder
Draft picks: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas (11, from New Orleans), Tibor Pleiss C, Germany (31, from Atlanta), Latavious Williams SF, Tulsa 66ers (48, from Miami), Ryan Reid PF, Florida State (57, from Indiana)
The Thunder had a spectacular draft, doing what they always do: filling their biggest need with the best player available, adding a high upside project, and getting assets for the future. I'm not a big Aldrich fan for most teams, but I love him on the Thunder because all he has to do is rebound, defend, and make outlet passes, which he can do. He could even be a solid low post scorer down the line. Pleiss is a really nice prospect who can develop in Europe and help in a year or two, Williams and Reid won't make the team and Reid is inexplicable, but since the Thunder definitely don't have room for them on the roster, it doesn't really matter. They also turned the number 18 pick into a future Clippers number 1, which most likely will be in the lottery and in a deeper draft. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Russell Westbrook/Eric Maynor
SG: Thabo Sefolosha/James Harden
SF: Kevin Durant
PF: Jeff Green/Serge Ibaka
C: Cole Aldrich/Nenad Kristic
Orlando Magic
Draft picks: Daniel Orton C, Kentucky (29), Stanley Robinson SF, UCONN (59)
The Magic got good value at their picks and two players that should make the roster. Orton could possible lead to Marcin Gortat being traded down the line, while Robinson can potentially replace Matt Barnes. There grade would be higher if they got players who can contribute right away. Grade: B
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jameer Nelson
SG: Vince Carter/J.J. Redick
SF: Mickael Pietrus/Stanley Robinson
PF: Rashard Lewis/Fran Vasquez
C: Dwight Howard/Marcin Gortat
Philadelphia 76ers
Draft picks: Evan Turner G/F, Ohio State (2)
The Sixers did what they had to, and there really isn't that much to say about this except the only reason they didn't get an A+ is because they could get rid of Elton Brand's contract. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jrue Holiday/Lou Williams
SG: Evan Turner/Willie Green
SF: Andre Igoudala/Andres Nocioni
PF: Elton Brand/Thaddeus Young
C: Marreese Speights/Spencer Hawes
Phoenix Suns
Draft picks: Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech (46), Dwayne Collins PF, Miami (60)
The Suns got two tough, athletic defensive minded power forwards who will run the floor well and finish strong, but they won't come close to replacing the offense of Amare Stoudemire. I'd rather have seen them take a skilled low post scorer like Derrick Caracter instead, but the Suns offense has done wonders before: Grade: C+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Steve Nash/Goran Dragic
SG: Jason Richardson/Leandro Barbosa
SF: Grant Hill/Jared Dudley
PF: Gani Lawal/Louis Amundson
C: Robin Lopez/Channing Frye
Portland Trailblazers
Draft picks: Luke Babbitt F, Nevada (16, from Minnesota), Elliot Williams G, Memphis (22), Armon Johnson PG, Nevada (34)
I love the Babbitt pick, especially since they got rid of Martel Webster, who was redundant with Nicolas Batum, so they'll get a nice matchup guy in Babbitt. Batum is an emerging stopper and Babbitt can give them some serious offensive punch. I'm not so sure about Williams and Johnson picks though. Williams is a tweener and Johnson duplicates Jerryd Bayless, while both guys might struggle to find minutes in a crowded backcourt. Grade: B-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Andre Miller/Jerryd Bayless
SG: Brandon Roy/Rudy Fernandez
SF: Nicolas Batum/Luke Babbitt
PF: LaMarcus Aldridge/Dante Cunningham
C: Marcus Camby/Greg Oden
Sacramento Kings
Draft picks: DeMarcus Cousins C, Kentucky (5), Hassan Whiteside PF/C, Marshall (33)
The Kings stayed in their spots, didn't make any moves, and ended up with two of the top 5 upside players in the draft. Plus the two biggest headcase risks at the same time. Cousins has all the talent in the world, and Whiteside is the best physical specimen in the draft of the big men. I think Whiteside has the mobility to play power forward, and so the Kings could have an unbelievably talented front court in a few years if things work out. Though I expect Whiteside to start out in the D league. Grade: A
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Beno Udrih
SG: Tyreke Evans/Fransisco Garcia
SF: Donte Green/Omri Casspi
PF: Carl Landry/Jason Thompson
C: Samuel Dalembert/DeMarcus Cousins
San Antonio Spurs
Draft picks: James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State (20), Ryan Richards F/C, England (49)
The Spurs, once again, had a really nice draft. The get a guy in Anderson who'll give them what they hoped Richard Jefferson would as well as being a reliable scorer whenever needed. The Spurs have a good track record with developing raw talent, and Richards is definitely that. I expect him start out in the D-league, but with Matt Bonner possibly leaving, he could play as a backup center. Grade: B+
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Tony Parker/George Hill
SG: James Anderson/Manu Ginobili
SF: Richard Jefferson
PF: Tim Duncan/DeJuan Blair
C: Antonio McDyess/Ryan Richards
Toronto Raptors
Draft picks: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina (13), Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (50, from Dallas)
I really like the Raptors draft, though at least with Davis, they didn't really do anything except let him fall to them. They needed a potential Chris Bosh replacement and Davis is the second best pure 4 prospect in the draft. He won't have to start either, because Andrei Bargnani can start at the 4, while Alabi can give them the shot blocking presence they need, a nice get in the second round. Grade: A-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Jose Calderon/Jarrett Jack
SG: DeMar DeRozan/Marco Belinelli
SF: Hedo Turkgolu/Sonny Weems
PF: Andrei Bargnani/Ed Davis
C: Solomon Alabi/Rasho Nesterovic
Utah Jazz
Draft picks: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler (9), Jeremy Evans SF, Western Kentucky (55)
I don't dislike Heyward's fit with the Jazz, he'll work out well there, but they needed size and length not another wing who'll struggle to defend. Ed Davis would have been a better pick. Evans is a late round flier, but considering the success the Jazz had with Wesley Matthews, who knows what will happen there. Grade: C-
Projected rotation right now:
PG: Deron Williams/Ronnie Price
SG: Wesley Matthews
SF: C.J. Miles/Gordon Heyward
PF: Andrei Kirilenko/Paul Millsap
C: Mehmet Okur/Kosta Koufus
Washington Wizards
Draft picks: John Wall PG, Kentucky (1), Kevin Seraphin PF, France (17, from Chicago), Trevor Booker PF, Clemson (23, from Minnesota), Hamady N'diaye C, Rutgers (56, from Minnesota)
There's not much more to say about Wall, he was the obvious pick and they made him. He can turn them around. Seraphin is an interesting pick, and I like it. The Wizards clearly aren't trying to win now, so why not take a guy with awesome upside and the right mentality? He's a physical beast and like to play tough and bang, just what you need. The same can be said about Trevor Booker, who's a monster with a motor that never stops, he'll be a nice back up and leader. N'diaye could make the roster with his defense, but it might be a long shot. I'm not so sure about getting Yi Jianlian and Kirk Hinrich, but I suppose Yi will give them some flexibility on offense and Hinrich can mentor Wall like he did Derrick Rose.
Projected rotation right now:
PG: John Wall/Kirk Hinrich
SG: Gilbert Arenas/Nick Young
SF: Josh Howard/Al Thorton
PF: Andray Blatche/Trevor Booker
C: JaVale McGee/Yi Jianlian
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Ten 2nd round prospects who can make a difference
All these players are ranked outside the top 30 in Chad Ford's top 100. 5 forwards and 5 guards:
Forwards:
Trevor Booker PF, Clemson Sr. (6-7½, 236)
Trevor Booker is undersized height-wise, but he makes up for it with length (7-0 wingspan), athleticism (36 inch vertical), and strength (22 bench presses). Most of all though, he outworks other players, going 100 percent on every play. His offensive game is improving, and he can hit a mid-range jump shot and even handle the ball some. His best offense comes off the break or on the offensive glass. On defense, he's long and strong enough to hold his own, and has the hops to be a rebounding and shot blocking contributor. He also has a knack for dunking on people, always a plus.
Highlights
Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Keith Gallon has a interesting skill set for a guy his size, he can handle, pass, and has 3 point range. Plus, he's long, strong and has good footwork in the post. If he can toughen up some, he'll provide a great combination of low post scoring and rebounding with stretch abilities. As long as he stays in shape, he should be a player for someone.
Highlights
Ryan Richards PF/C, England (6-11¾, 230)
Ryan Richards isn't ready for the NBA quite yet, but his size and abilities speak to someone who could be very good down the line. He knows his best place is in the post, but can also step out and handle the ball. He's also developing a jumpshot. Once he learns how to play the game and harness his skills, he should be a solid starter for a team.
Highlights
Dexter Pittman C, Texas Sr. (6-11½, 303)
If Dexter Pittman can dedicate himself to staying in shape, he could be a star down the line. He's massive, long (7-6 wingspan) and very strong. Plus he's a better athlete than you think. If he gets position and catches the ball with his massive, soft hands, there's nothing you can do. He'll just finish. He's also a very good rebounder, especially offensively. If you don't believe how good this guy can be, just look at his stat line against a big, talented from North Carolina: 23 points (9-16 FG, 5-8 FT) 15 rebounds (3 defensive, 12 offensive) 2 blocks. All in 26 minutes!
Highlights
Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 233)
Gani Lawal is a lot like Trevor Booker. Not the tallest, but he's long, strong and athletic. Also, like Booker, he's got a non-stop motor and will hustle all game long. Not enough people understand the value of a 20 minute a night, hardworking big man that can come in, hold his own, and keep guys fresh. Lawal fits that mold.
Highlights
Guards:
Willie Warren PG/SG, Oklahoma So. (6-3¾, 208)
Willie Warren was a lottery pick last year, but had a rough season this year and has fallen possible out of the first round. To me, he's a kind of Mo Williams type point guard who'd play well off the ball and with it. He can spot up, or create off the dribble. He's also an underrated passer, though he'll never be a pure point. I like him as a scorer off the bench, or a starter along side a superstar that can handle the ball.
Highlights
Mikhail Torrance PG, Alabama Sr. (6-5, 209)
A point guard with great size, Mikhail Torrance isn't great at anything, but he does a little of everything. He can pass, score, shoot, and defend very well. He's an ideal backup point guard, especially for a team with a smaller starter, and can also play the 2 along side a point.
Highlights
Manny Harris SG, Michigan Jr. (6-5½, 185)
I don't understand how a guy as skilled as Manny Harris can be drafted outside the first round, but it's going to happen. Harris is a very good slasher, he can get to the rim and is a solid finisher. Shot selection is a concern, but he had to carry Michigan, so that shouldn't be a big concern. The only real concern is his jump shot, which needs work. Other than that he's a very good scorer and can create for teammates some too.
Highlights
Andy Rautins PG/SG, Syracuse. (6-5, 192 Sr)
Andy Rautins is viewed the typical "unathletic white player" who can't make it in the NBA. I disagree. The guy is an excellent shooter with a quick release and unlimited range. Plus he's got good size, can handle the ball and is unselfish and an excellent passer. As a shooter off the bench or a point guard in a triangle, it's hard to find many flaws. He's not as unathletic as you'd think and had the same agility score as Terrico White.
Highlights
Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland St. (6-6½, 211)
Greivis Vasquez is reportedly killing it in NBA workouts, and I'm not surprised. The guys got major skills and a motor to match. He clearly loves basketball and will never give up the dream of the NBA. He's a big combo guard who can score, pass, and rebound. He's got very good court vision, and when he plays under control, can be very effective. Control his emotions will be important. Defense is his Achilles heel, he's not a great athlete and may struggle on D. However, he's a versatile offensive weapon and should be a contributor on whatever team takes him.
Highlights
Forwards:
Trevor Booker PF, Clemson Sr. (6-7½, 236)
Trevor Booker is undersized height-wise, but he makes up for it with length (7-0 wingspan), athleticism (36 inch vertical), and strength (22 bench presses). Most of all though, he outworks other players, going 100 percent on every play. His offensive game is improving, and he can hit a mid-range jump shot and even handle the ball some. His best offense comes off the break or on the offensive glass. On defense, he's long and strong enough to hold his own, and has the hops to be a rebounding and shot blocking contributor. He also has a knack for dunking on people, always a plus.
Highlights
Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Keith Gallon has a interesting skill set for a guy his size, he can handle, pass, and has 3 point range. Plus, he's long, strong and has good footwork in the post. If he can toughen up some, he'll provide a great combination of low post scoring and rebounding with stretch abilities. As long as he stays in shape, he should be a player for someone.
Highlights
Ryan Richards PF/C, England (6-11¾, 230)
Ryan Richards isn't ready for the NBA quite yet, but his size and abilities speak to someone who could be very good down the line. He knows his best place is in the post, but can also step out and handle the ball. He's also developing a jumpshot. Once he learns how to play the game and harness his skills, he should be a solid starter for a team.
Highlights
Dexter Pittman C, Texas Sr. (6-11½, 303)
If Dexter Pittman can dedicate himself to staying in shape, he could be a star down the line. He's massive, long (7-6 wingspan) and very strong. Plus he's a better athlete than you think. If he gets position and catches the ball with his massive, soft hands, there's nothing you can do. He'll just finish. He's also a very good rebounder, especially offensively. If you don't believe how good this guy can be, just look at his stat line against a big, talented from North Carolina: 23 points (9-16 FG, 5-8 FT) 15 rebounds (3 defensive, 12 offensive) 2 blocks. All in 26 minutes!
Highlights
Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 233)
Gani Lawal is a lot like Trevor Booker. Not the tallest, but he's long, strong and athletic. Also, like Booker, he's got a non-stop motor and will hustle all game long. Not enough people understand the value of a 20 minute a night, hardworking big man that can come in, hold his own, and keep guys fresh. Lawal fits that mold.
Highlights
Guards:
Willie Warren PG/SG, Oklahoma So. (6-3¾, 208)
Willie Warren was a lottery pick last year, but had a rough season this year and has fallen possible out of the first round. To me, he's a kind of Mo Williams type point guard who'd play well off the ball and with it. He can spot up, or create off the dribble. He's also an underrated passer, though he'll never be a pure point. I like him as a scorer off the bench, or a starter along side a superstar that can handle the ball.
Highlights
Mikhail Torrance PG, Alabama Sr. (6-5, 209)
A point guard with great size, Mikhail Torrance isn't great at anything, but he does a little of everything. He can pass, score, shoot, and defend very well. He's an ideal backup point guard, especially for a team with a smaller starter, and can also play the 2 along side a point.
Highlights
Manny Harris SG, Michigan Jr. (6-5½, 185)
I don't understand how a guy as skilled as Manny Harris can be drafted outside the first round, but it's going to happen. Harris is a very good slasher, he can get to the rim and is a solid finisher. Shot selection is a concern, but he had to carry Michigan, so that shouldn't be a big concern. The only real concern is his jump shot, which needs work. Other than that he's a very good scorer and can create for teammates some too.
Highlights
Andy Rautins PG/SG, Syracuse. (6-5, 192 Sr)
Andy Rautins is viewed the typical "unathletic white player" who can't make it in the NBA. I disagree. The guy is an excellent shooter with a quick release and unlimited range. Plus he's got good size, can handle the ball and is unselfish and an excellent passer. As a shooter off the bench or a point guard in a triangle, it's hard to find many flaws. He's not as unathletic as you'd think and had the same agility score as Terrico White.
Highlights
Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland St. (6-6½, 211)
Greivis Vasquez is reportedly killing it in NBA workouts, and I'm not surprised. The guys got major skills and a motor to match. He clearly loves basketball and will never give up the dream of the NBA. He's a big combo guard who can score, pass, and rebound. He's got very good court vision, and when he plays under control, can be very effective. Control his emotions will be important. Defense is his Achilles heel, he's not a great athlete and may struggle on D. However, he's a versatile offensive weapon and should be a contributor on whatever team takes him.
Highlights
Thursday, June 3, 2010
NBA Mock 6/6
1. Washington Wizards: John Wall PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-4, 196)
This is the no brainer of the draft. The Wizards are in desperate need of some star power to build around and they'll get it in Wall. The only question is whether they play Gilbert Arenas at the 2 or trade him, because this is Wall's team now.
2. Philadelphia 76ers: Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 214)
This isn't such a no brainer. The Sixers already have a more athletic Turner-type player in Andre Igoudala. If they keep the pick, I think they have to take Turner, but I'd expect this pick to be traded. Probably to the Tinberwolves. I know Derrick Favors is a popular pick right now, but I think that that Turner is too valuable a trade piece to pass on. When it's all said and done though, I expect the Sixers to end up with Favors or DeMarcus Cousins.
3. New Jersey Nets: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-10 ¼, 245)
All the Nets fans are upset because they didn't get John Wall and probably won't get LeBron James. Guess what Nets fans, you weren't getting him anyways. Why would LeBron go to New Jersey and play for a team just off narrowly missing having the worst NBA season EVER? I think this works out well for the Nets because they can take Favors and will have a very nice young core that, if they can keep it together, can be a title team a few years from now. If they take Favors, they're starting lineup would be Brook Lopez, Favors, Terrence Williams, Courtney Lee, and Devin Harris with Chris Douglas-Roberts as a scorer off the bench and Yi Jianlian as a third big man. Average age: 22.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wes Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7 ¼, 206)
The Timberwolves love Evan Turner, and I expect them to trade up and grab him. However, if they do pick here, Wes Johnson makes a lot of sense. They need a good swingman and Johnson fits the triangle very well because he's a great shooter and good passer. Plus with his former teammate Jonny Flynn playing the point, you can expect great chemistry on the break, where both guys excel.
5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-10 ¾, 292)
I think this point is the furthest swing of the negative Cousins pendulum. By the time the draft comes around, I think it'll come back more to at least neutral on him. The Kings need a true center because Jason Thompson is a 4 and Spencer Hawes is a backup. If you pair those three guys with Carl Landry, you'll have a good rotation at the 3 and 4.
6. Golden State Warriors: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8 ½, 216)
The Warriors miss out on the big 5 in the draft, but will have a chance to draft a guy with as much potential as anyone. Aminu is at his best when he's playing hard defense, rebounding the ball, then flying up court on the fast break, so he'll be a good fit for Golden State.
7. Detroit Pistons: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11¼, 236)
I don't think Cole Aldrich should be a top ten pick, but he will be and the Pistons, who are in desperate need of a big man (Kwame Brown and Ben Wallace ain't cuttin it), so this is a logical landing spot for him. The rumor last year was that the Pistons loved B.J. Mullens, so in Aldrich they get a much more NBA ready guy.
8. Los Angeles Clippers: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 211)
This may seem crazy, but I can really see it happening. The Clippers love Heyward and really need a small forward. This is high for him, but really after the first couple picks, things run together a bit and if a team likes a guy you can't hate too much if they take them. That said, I still wouldn't draft him this high. I wonder what it'll be like for the Clippers who'll go from one of the lowest basketball IQ players in the game in Al Thorton to one of the highest in Heyward.
9. Utah Jazz (from New York Knicks): Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 247)
There isn't a more perfect fit in this draft than Greg Monroe to the Jazz. His passing and ability to find cutters will allow him to excel in their system. Some are talking about Monroe as a top 5 pick, I can't see it due to his frequent disappearing act and the fact he was somewhat out of shape at the Combine. He's just got too much risk for a pick that high.
10. Indiana Pacers: Avery Bradley PG/SG, Texas Fr. (6-3¼, 180)
This is another one that seems crazy, but this is another where if the team is desperate and love the player, you can't argue with them doing it. Last year the Pacers reached for Tyler Hansbrough and this year, if they think Bradley can be the dynamic, athletic point guard they need, they'll pick him. Eric Bledsoe is another option, but Bradley's stock is hot.
11. New Orleans Hornets: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-9¾, 227)
Ed Davis is that guy who slips, not because of what he's done (though the wrist injury didn't help), but because other guys move up. He's still got a ton of potential, and will be in a good situation in New Orleans with Chris Paul making life easier for him and Emeka Okafor able to take the tough defensive assignment while he gains strength. The Hornets could lose David West next year and need frontcourt depth anyways.
12. Memphis Grizzles: Luke Babbit SF, Nevada So. (6-8¾, 218)
Luke Babbit tested better than expected at the combine, coming in at a solid size and posting impressive numbers in the testing. Apparently, he's a better athlete than originally thought. I'm still not sold on his defensive ability, but considering his age, scoring ability, and athleticism it shouldn't be too big of a risk. He also has the size and inside skills to play power forward.
13. Toronto Raptors: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-9¾, 237)
Chris Bosh is most likely gone, so the Raptors need a replacement. Ekpe Udoh doesn't have the offensive upside of Bosh, but he'll be a better defender, and that's what Toronto needs. Their offense was great (6th in the league), but their defense was last in the league and historically bad. Udoh has the potential to be an elite defender, and will upgrade them there significantly. Plus, his passing ability will fit well in the Toronto offense.
14. Houston Rockets: Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11½, 227)
Hassan Whiteside was the big winner from the measurements portion of the Chicago Combine, measuring 6-11½ in shoes with a ridicules 7-7 wingspan and a better reach than Cole Aldrich and Greg Monroe. However, interviews didn't go so well and exemplified the worries teams have about Whiteside's character and demenor. He's a tough prospect to place because if just takes one team and he could go top 5. Without Yao Ming, the Rockets suffered on offense and defense. Chuck Hayes is a great post defender, but he's just far too small to be the rim protector they need at the back of their defense. Whiteside can do that and also spell Yao to help keep him healthy.
15. Milwaukee Bucks (from Chicago Bulls): Paul George SG, Fresno State So. (6-8¾, 214)
Paul George's stock is flying and he could go top ten when all is said and done. However, with the lack of need of a shooting guard (and the questions about whether George can play the 3), I have him falling just out of the lottery. I love this fit for the Bucks because George, with his size, can be a huge matchup problem at the 2, shoot from range, but also replace the John Salmons roll of getting his own shot. Plus he brings some much needed athleticism to this team and give Brandon Jennings a dynamic option on the break. Xavier Henry is also an option, but I think George's fit will be tough to pass on.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Charlotte Bobcats): Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6½, 210)
The Timberwolves continue to remake their team with young talent, Xavier Henry's shooting ability will fit well in the triangle, and he's physically ready to contribute, but has plenty of upside at only 19 years old. He'll give Minnesota a versatile rotation at the 2 and 3 along with Wes Johnson, Corey Brewer, and Wayne Ellington.
17. Chicago Bulls (from Milwaukee Bucks): James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-5¾, 208)
The Bulls really missed the scoring of Ben Gordon last year. Gordon is seen by many as a shooter, but he's an underrated passer and can score in many different ways, including off the drive, not just shooting. James Anderson can do all these things, plus he's got great size for a 2 guard, plays tough defense, and is a good rebounder. He'll be a perfect compliment to Derrick Rose because he can spot up as well as drive to the hoop.
18. Miami Heat: Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1½, 192)
Dwyane Wade needs a solid point guard in the backcourt to do 3 things: catch and shoot the 3 consistently, get his own shot, and create for teammates while Wade is on bench. Eric Bledsoe has the potential to do all these things, and will be an immediate upgrade over Mario Chalmers and Carlos Arroyo
19. Boston Celtics: Solomon Alabi C, Florida State Jr. (7-0½, 237)
The Celtics are high on Alabi and the pick makes sense. There isn't a good replacement to Ray Allen, or a backup for Rajon Rondo, available here, so why not take a chance on a high upside guy? Alabi is also a character guy and will give Boston a guy who can match up with some of the taller, longer centers in the game.
20. San Antonio Spurs: Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-9¼, 240)
The Rumor is the Spurs love Derrick Favors and are doing their best to trade up and take him as the running mate for Tim Duncan. Patterson doesn't have nearly the upside or size of Favors, but he's very athletic and a gritty, Spurs type player. He's not going to blow you away, but at the end of the day you'll be very happy with what he gives you.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-7¾, 227)
I've had the Thunder taking a big center here for a while, but since it appears that guys like Dexter Pittman, Tiny Gallon, and Jerome Jordan will be available at less risk in the second round, taking a sure thing is a better option here. The Thunder have been taking high upside guys for a while, but drafting James Harden last year marked a shift that their 50 win season confirmed: it's time for them to start drafting more NBA ready players. Damion James is ready to come in day 1 and rebound, defend, and hustle off the bench whenever you need him to.
22. Portland Trailblazers: Daniel Orton PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-9½, 269)
I think Daniel Orton will fall because of all the risk involved in him, plus he hasn't wowed anyone during the pre-draft workouts, so I think it's very possible he's here for the Blazers. They've been snake bit when it comes to centers, so it makes sense for them to throw another body into the mix, hopefully Orton can stay healthy.
23. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah Jazz): Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Sr. (6-10½, 222)
The Timberwolves desperately need to add some athleticism and defense to their frontcourt because pairing Kevin Love and Al Jefferson just doesn't work at that end. Larry Sanders has the length to play center and the mobility to play power forward, so the Timberwolves can mix and match the trio how they like.
24. Atlanta Hawks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier So. (6-4½, 198)
The Hawks desperately need a starting caliber true center, but there's no available at this point, so they go with their next biggest need: a replacement to Joe Johnson, who probably won't be back. Crawford can certainly score and will fit in well with the isolation style of the other Hawks players.
25. Memphis Grizzles (from Denver Nuggets): Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
Quincy Pondexter is ready to contribute immediately in the NBA, not something that can be said about most prospects, and will be a valuable bench player right away for the Grizzles. He's also got some star potential and can help fill the void of Rudy Gay if he leaves.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix Suns): Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State Jr. (6-9¾, 229)
The Thunder really have no post up game or consistent inside scoring threat, so a guy like Brackins, who is already a versatile inside/outside threat and can rebound well, makes a ton of sense. Brackins is another guy who can step in and produce immediately to help take the Thunder to the next level. He's also a high character guy, so he fits with what the Thunder want.
27. New Jersey Nets (from Dallas Mavericks): Armon Johnson PG, Nevada Jr. (6-3¼, 195)
In a lot of drafts, Armon Johnson would be the most athletic point guard going, but not this year with John Wall in the class. Still Johnson is great athlete and a solid score first point guard option. The Nets back up point guard options are Kenyon Dooling and Chris Quinn. That's bad. So taking Johnson to back up Devin Harris would be a smart move.
28. Memphis Grizzles (from Los Angeles Lakers): Kevin Seraphin PF, France (6-10, 260)
You can't expect the Grizzles to use all their first round picks on college players, they'll most likely acquire the rights to a player overseas. Zach Randolph won't be around forever so taking a guy who'll be able to replace him down the road makes sense.
29. Orlando Magic: Lance Stephenson SG, Cincinnati Fr. (6-5¾, 227)
The Magic really need a player who can get his own shot and work outside their four out system. Lance Stephenson is a big, physical guard who can get his own shot and overpower players. His attitude is improving and he's got the fire and desire that the Magic need.
30. Washington Wizards (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Jarvis Varnado PF, Mississippi State Sr. (6-10, 210)
The Wizards defense has been bad for a while, so adding the best shot blocker in college basketball history makes sense. Varnado will need to add muscle to become more of a factor on offense and on the ball, but he'll be a fantastic help defender right off the bat. At worst, he'll be Chris Anderson.
This is the no brainer of the draft. The Wizards are in desperate need of some star power to build around and they'll get it in Wall. The only question is whether they play Gilbert Arenas at the 2 or trade him, because this is Wall's team now.
2. Philadelphia 76ers: Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 214)
This isn't such a no brainer. The Sixers already have a more athletic Turner-type player in Andre Igoudala. If they keep the pick, I think they have to take Turner, but I'd expect this pick to be traded. Probably to the Tinberwolves. I know Derrick Favors is a popular pick right now, but I think that that Turner is too valuable a trade piece to pass on. When it's all said and done though, I expect the Sixers to end up with Favors or DeMarcus Cousins.
3. New Jersey Nets: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-10 ¼, 245)
All the Nets fans are upset because they didn't get John Wall and probably won't get LeBron James. Guess what Nets fans, you weren't getting him anyways. Why would LeBron go to New Jersey and play for a team just off narrowly missing having the worst NBA season EVER? I think this works out well for the Nets because they can take Favors and will have a very nice young core that, if they can keep it together, can be a title team a few years from now. If they take Favors, they're starting lineup would be Brook Lopez, Favors, Terrence Williams, Courtney Lee, and Devin Harris with Chris Douglas-Roberts as a scorer off the bench and Yi Jianlian as a third big man. Average age: 22.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wes Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7 ¼, 206)
The Timberwolves love Evan Turner, and I expect them to trade up and grab him. However, if they do pick here, Wes Johnson makes a lot of sense. They need a good swingman and Johnson fits the triangle very well because he's a great shooter and good passer. Plus with his former teammate Jonny Flynn playing the point, you can expect great chemistry on the break, where both guys excel.
5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-10 ¾, 292)
I think this point is the furthest swing of the negative Cousins pendulum. By the time the draft comes around, I think it'll come back more to at least neutral on him. The Kings need a true center because Jason Thompson is a 4 and Spencer Hawes is a backup. If you pair those three guys with Carl Landry, you'll have a good rotation at the 3 and 4.
6. Golden State Warriors: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8 ½, 216)
The Warriors miss out on the big 5 in the draft, but will have a chance to draft a guy with as much potential as anyone. Aminu is at his best when he's playing hard defense, rebounding the ball, then flying up court on the fast break, so he'll be a good fit for Golden State.
7. Detroit Pistons: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11¼, 236)
I don't think Cole Aldrich should be a top ten pick, but he will be and the Pistons, who are in desperate need of a big man (Kwame Brown and Ben Wallace ain't cuttin it), so this is a logical landing spot for him. The rumor last year was that the Pistons loved B.J. Mullens, so in Aldrich they get a much more NBA ready guy.
8. Los Angeles Clippers: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 211)
This may seem crazy, but I can really see it happening. The Clippers love Heyward and really need a small forward. This is high for him, but really after the first couple picks, things run together a bit and if a team likes a guy you can't hate too much if they take them. That said, I still wouldn't draft him this high. I wonder what it'll be like for the Clippers who'll go from one of the lowest basketball IQ players in the game in Al Thorton to one of the highest in Heyward.
9. Utah Jazz (from New York Knicks): Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 247)
There isn't a more perfect fit in this draft than Greg Monroe to the Jazz. His passing and ability to find cutters will allow him to excel in their system. Some are talking about Monroe as a top 5 pick, I can't see it due to his frequent disappearing act and the fact he was somewhat out of shape at the Combine. He's just got too much risk for a pick that high.
10. Indiana Pacers: Avery Bradley PG/SG, Texas Fr. (6-3¼, 180)
This is another one that seems crazy, but this is another where if the team is desperate and love the player, you can't argue with them doing it. Last year the Pacers reached for Tyler Hansbrough and this year, if they think Bradley can be the dynamic, athletic point guard they need, they'll pick him. Eric Bledsoe is another option, but Bradley's stock is hot.
11. New Orleans Hornets: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-9¾, 227)
Ed Davis is that guy who slips, not because of what he's done (though the wrist injury didn't help), but because other guys move up. He's still got a ton of potential, and will be in a good situation in New Orleans with Chris Paul making life easier for him and Emeka Okafor able to take the tough defensive assignment while he gains strength. The Hornets could lose David West next year and need frontcourt depth anyways.
12. Memphis Grizzles: Luke Babbit SF, Nevada So. (6-8¾, 218)
Luke Babbit tested better than expected at the combine, coming in at a solid size and posting impressive numbers in the testing. Apparently, he's a better athlete than originally thought. I'm still not sold on his defensive ability, but considering his age, scoring ability, and athleticism it shouldn't be too big of a risk. He also has the size and inside skills to play power forward.
13. Toronto Raptors: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-9¾, 237)
Chris Bosh is most likely gone, so the Raptors need a replacement. Ekpe Udoh doesn't have the offensive upside of Bosh, but he'll be a better defender, and that's what Toronto needs. Their offense was great (6th in the league), but their defense was last in the league and historically bad. Udoh has the potential to be an elite defender, and will upgrade them there significantly. Plus, his passing ability will fit well in the Toronto offense.
14. Houston Rockets: Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11½, 227)
Hassan Whiteside was the big winner from the measurements portion of the Chicago Combine, measuring 6-11½ in shoes with a ridicules 7-7 wingspan and a better reach than Cole Aldrich and Greg Monroe. However, interviews didn't go so well and exemplified the worries teams have about Whiteside's character and demenor. He's a tough prospect to place because if just takes one team and he could go top 5. Without Yao Ming, the Rockets suffered on offense and defense. Chuck Hayes is a great post defender, but he's just far too small to be the rim protector they need at the back of their defense. Whiteside can do that and also spell Yao to help keep him healthy.
15. Milwaukee Bucks (from Chicago Bulls): Paul George SG, Fresno State So. (6-8¾, 214)
Paul George's stock is flying and he could go top ten when all is said and done. However, with the lack of need of a shooting guard (and the questions about whether George can play the 3), I have him falling just out of the lottery. I love this fit for the Bucks because George, with his size, can be a huge matchup problem at the 2, shoot from range, but also replace the John Salmons roll of getting his own shot. Plus he brings some much needed athleticism to this team and give Brandon Jennings a dynamic option on the break. Xavier Henry is also an option, but I think George's fit will be tough to pass on.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Charlotte Bobcats): Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6½, 210)
The Timberwolves continue to remake their team with young talent, Xavier Henry's shooting ability will fit well in the triangle, and he's physically ready to contribute, but has plenty of upside at only 19 years old. He'll give Minnesota a versatile rotation at the 2 and 3 along with Wes Johnson, Corey Brewer, and Wayne Ellington.
17. Chicago Bulls (from Milwaukee Bucks): James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-5¾, 208)
The Bulls really missed the scoring of Ben Gordon last year. Gordon is seen by many as a shooter, but he's an underrated passer and can score in many different ways, including off the drive, not just shooting. James Anderson can do all these things, plus he's got great size for a 2 guard, plays tough defense, and is a good rebounder. He'll be a perfect compliment to Derrick Rose because he can spot up as well as drive to the hoop.
18. Miami Heat: Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1½, 192)
Dwyane Wade needs a solid point guard in the backcourt to do 3 things: catch and shoot the 3 consistently, get his own shot, and create for teammates while Wade is on bench. Eric Bledsoe has the potential to do all these things, and will be an immediate upgrade over Mario Chalmers and Carlos Arroyo
19. Boston Celtics: Solomon Alabi C, Florida State Jr. (7-0½, 237)
The Celtics are high on Alabi and the pick makes sense. There isn't a good replacement to Ray Allen, or a backup for Rajon Rondo, available here, so why not take a chance on a high upside guy? Alabi is also a character guy and will give Boston a guy who can match up with some of the taller, longer centers in the game.
20. San Antonio Spurs: Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-9¼, 240)
The Rumor is the Spurs love Derrick Favors and are doing their best to trade up and take him as the running mate for Tim Duncan. Patterson doesn't have nearly the upside or size of Favors, but he's very athletic and a gritty, Spurs type player. He's not going to blow you away, but at the end of the day you'll be very happy with what he gives you.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-7¾, 227)
I've had the Thunder taking a big center here for a while, but since it appears that guys like Dexter Pittman, Tiny Gallon, and Jerome Jordan will be available at less risk in the second round, taking a sure thing is a better option here. The Thunder have been taking high upside guys for a while, but drafting James Harden last year marked a shift that their 50 win season confirmed: it's time for them to start drafting more NBA ready players. Damion James is ready to come in day 1 and rebound, defend, and hustle off the bench whenever you need him to.
22. Portland Trailblazers: Daniel Orton PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-9½, 269)
I think Daniel Orton will fall because of all the risk involved in him, plus he hasn't wowed anyone during the pre-draft workouts, so I think it's very possible he's here for the Blazers. They've been snake bit when it comes to centers, so it makes sense for them to throw another body into the mix, hopefully Orton can stay healthy.
23. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah Jazz): Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Sr. (6-10½, 222)
The Timberwolves desperately need to add some athleticism and defense to their frontcourt because pairing Kevin Love and Al Jefferson just doesn't work at that end. Larry Sanders has the length to play center and the mobility to play power forward, so the Timberwolves can mix and match the trio how they like.
24. Atlanta Hawks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier So. (6-4½, 198)
The Hawks desperately need a starting caliber true center, but there's no available at this point, so they go with their next biggest need: a replacement to Joe Johnson, who probably won't be back. Crawford can certainly score and will fit in well with the isolation style of the other Hawks players.
25. Memphis Grizzles (from Denver Nuggets): Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
Quincy Pondexter is ready to contribute immediately in the NBA, not something that can be said about most prospects, and will be a valuable bench player right away for the Grizzles. He's also got some star potential and can help fill the void of Rudy Gay if he leaves.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix Suns): Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State Jr. (6-9¾, 229)
The Thunder really have no post up game or consistent inside scoring threat, so a guy like Brackins, who is already a versatile inside/outside threat and can rebound well, makes a ton of sense. Brackins is another guy who can step in and produce immediately to help take the Thunder to the next level. He's also a high character guy, so he fits with what the Thunder want.
27. New Jersey Nets (from Dallas Mavericks): Armon Johnson PG, Nevada Jr. (6-3¼, 195)
In a lot of drafts, Armon Johnson would be the most athletic point guard going, but not this year with John Wall in the class. Still Johnson is great athlete and a solid score first point guard option. The Nets back up point guard options are Kenyon Dooling and Chris Quinn. That's bad. So taking Johnson to back up Devin Harris would be a smart move.
28. Memphis Grizzles (from Los Angeles Lakers): Kevin Seraphin PF, France (6-10, 260)
You can't expect the Grizzles to use all their first round picks on college players, they'll most likely acquire the rights to a player overseas. Zach Randolph won't be around forever so taking a guy who'll be able to replace him down the road makes sense.
29. Orlando Magic: Lance Stephenson SG, Cincinnati Fr. (6-5¾, 227)
The Magic really need a player who can get his own shot and work outside their four out system. Lance Stephenson is a big, physical guard who can get his own shot and overpower players. His attitude is improving and he's got the fire and desire that the Magic need.
30. Washington Wizards (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Jarvis Varnado PF, Mississippi State Sr. (6-10, 210)
The Wizards defense has been bad for a while, so adding the best shot blocker in college basketball history makes sense. Varnado will need to add muscle to become more of a factor on offense and on the ball, but he'll be a fantastic help defender right off the bat. At worst, he'll be Chris Anderson.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
NBA Mock 5/24
1.
This is the no brainer of the draft. The Wizards are in desperate need of some star power to build around and they'll get it in Wall. The only question is whether they play Gilbert Arenas at the 2 or trade him, because this is Wall's team now.
2.
This isn't such a no brainer. The Sixers already have a more athletic Turner-type player in Andre Igoudala. If they keep the pick, I think they have to take Turner, but I'd expect this pick to be traded. Probably to the Tinberwolves.
3.
All the Nets fans are upset because they didn't get John Wall and probably won't get LeBron James. Guess what Nets fans, you weren't getting him anyways. Why would LeBron go to
4.
The Timberwolves love Evan Turner, and I expect them to trade up and grab him. However, if they do pick here, Wes Johnson makes a lot of sense. They need a good swingman and Johnson fits the triangle very well because he's a great shooter and good passer. Plus with his former teammate Jonny Flynn playing the point, you can expect great chemistry on the break, where both guys excel.
5.
I think this point is the furthest swing of the negative Cousins pendulum. By the time the draft comes around, I think it'll come back more to at least neutral on him. The Kings need a true center because Jason Thompson is a 4 and Spencer Hawes is a backup. If you pair those three guys with Carl Landry, you'll have a good rotation at the 3 and 4.
6. Golden State Warriors: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8 ½, 216)
The Warriors miss out on the big 5 in the draft, but will have a chance to draft a guy with as much potential as anyone. Aminu is at his best when he's playing hard defense, rebounding the ball, then flying up court on the fast break, so he'll be a good fit for Golden State.
7. Detroit Pistons: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11¼, 236)
I don't think Cole Aldrich should be a top ten pick, but he will be and the Pistons, who are in desperate need of a big man (Kwame Brown and Ben Wallace ain't cuttin it), so this is a logical landing spot for him. The rumor last year was that the Pistons loved B.J. Mullens, so in Aldrich they get a much more NBA ready guy.
8. Los Angeles Clippers: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 211)
This may seem crazy, but I can really see it happening. The Clippers love Heyward and really need a small forward. This is high for him, but really after the first couple picks, things run together a bit and if a team likes a guy you can't hate too much if they take them. That said, I still wouldn't draft him this high. I wonder what it'll be like for the Clippers who'll go from one of the lowest basketball IQ players in the game in Al Thorton to one of the highest in Heyward.
9. Utah Jazz (from New York Knicks): Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 247)
There isn't a more perfect fit in this draft than Greg Monroe to the Jazz. His passing and ability to find cutters will allow him to excel in their system. Some are talking about Monroe as a top 5 pick, I can't see it due to his frequent disappearing act and the fact he was somewhat out of shape at the Combine. He's just got too much risk for a pick that high.
10. Indiana Pacers: Avery Bradley PG/SG, Texas Fr. (6-3¼, 180)
This is another one that seems crazy, but this is another where if the team is desperate and love the player, you can't argue with them doing it. Last year the Pacers reached for Tyler Hansbrough and this year, if they think Bradley can be the dynamic, athletic point guard they need, they'll pick him. Eric Bledsoe is another option, but Bradley's stock is hot.
11. New Orleans Hornets: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-9¾, 227)
Ed Davis is that guy who slips, not because of what he's done (though the wrist injury didn't help), but because other guys move up. He's still got a ton of potential, and will be in a good situation in New Orleans with Chris Paul making life easier for him and Emeka Okafor able to take the tough defensive assignment while he gains strength. The Hornets could lose David West next year and need frontcourt depth anyways.
12. Memphis Grizzles: Luke Babbit SF, Nevada So. (6-8¾, 218)
Luke Babbit tested better than expected at the combine, coming in at a solid size and posting impressive numbers in the testing. Apparently, he's a better athlete than originally thought. I'm still not sold on his defensive ability, but considering his age, scoring ability, and athleticism it shouldn't be too big of a risk. He also has the size and inside skills to play power forward.
13. Toronto Raptors: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-9¾, 237)
Chris Bosh is most likely gone, so the Raptors need a replacement. Ekpe Udoh doesn't have the offensive upside of Bosh, but he'll be a better defender, and that's what Toronto needs. Their offense was great (6th in the league), but their defense was last in the league and historically bad. Udoh has the potential to be an elite defender, and will upgrade them there significantly. Plus, his passing ability will fit well in the Toronto offense.
14. Houston Rockets: Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11½, 227)
Hassan Whiteside was the big winner from the measurements portion of the Chicago Combine, measuring 6-11½ in shoes with a ridicules 7-7 wingspan and a better reach than Cole Aldrich and Greg Monroe. However, interviews didn't go so well and exemplified the worries teams have about Whiteside's character and demenor. He's a tough prospect to place because if just takes one team and he could go top 5. Without Yao Ming, the Rockets suffered on offense and defense. Chuck Hayes is a great post defender, but he's just far too small to be the rim protector they need at the back of their defense. Whiteside can do that and also spell Yao to help keep him healthy.
15. Milwaukee Bucks (from Chicago Bulls): Paul George SG, Fresno State So. (6-8¾, 214)
Paul George's stock is flying and he could go top ten when all is said and done. However, with the lack of need of a shooting guard (and the questions about whether George can play the 3), I have him falling just out of the lottery. I love this fit for the Bucks because George, with his size, can be a huge matchup problem at the 2, shoot from range, but also replace the John Salmons roll of getting his own shot. Plus he brings some much needed athleticism to this team and give Brandon Jennings a dynamic option on the break.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Charlotte Bobcats): Donatas Motiejunas PF, Lithuania (7-0, 220)
The Timberwolves have a lot of picks in this draft, so you can expect they'll take a player to store overseas for a year or two. They also have a terrific European scouting department, so I'd expect they'd see the value of Motiejunas here, how could go in the top 10. He's a perfect triangle player and has a pretty complete game, he just needs to add significant muscle.
17. Chicago Bulls (from Milwaukee Bucks): James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-5¾, 208)
The Bulls really missed the scoring of Ben Gordon last year. Gordon is seen by many as a shooter, but he's an underrated passer and can score in many different ways, including off the drive, not just shooting. James Anderson can do all these things, plus he's got great size for a 2 guard, plays tough defense, and is a good rebounder. He'll be a perfect compliment to Derrick Rose because he can spot up as well as drive to the hoop.
18. Miami Heat: Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1½, 192)
Dwyane Wade needs a solid point guard in the backcourt to do 3 things: catch and shoot the 3 consistently, get his own shot, and create for teammates while Wade is on bench. Eric Bledsoe has the potential to do all these things, and will be an immediate upgrade over Mario Chalmers and Carlos Arroyo
19. Boston Celtics: Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6½, 210)
Xavier Henry has impressed with his shooting ability and developing other parts of his game. He should make a good replacement for Ray Allen, who'll likely be leaving through free agency this summer. He can also back up Paul Peirce in a pinch at the 3.
20. San Antonio Spurs: Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-9¼, 240)
The Rumor is the Spurs love Derrick Favors and are doing their best to trade up and take him as the heir to Tim Duncan. Patterson doesn't have nearly the upside or size of Favors, but he's very athletic and a gritty, Spurs type player. He's not going to blow you away, but at the end of the day you'll be very happy with what he gives you.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Daniel Orton PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-9½, 269)
I think Daniel Orton will be in for a Jrue Holiday esque fall this draft, and honestly it's hard to blame teams. He did nothing at the college level to warrant a first round pick. Right now, all OKC needs is a big rebounder and shot blocker, which Orton can do. His offense, on the other hand, will be a big work-in-progress.
22. Portland Trailblazers: Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-7¾, 227)
The Blazers have talented young players at the 3 and 4, but none of them are particularly gritty defenders, or rebounders. Damion James is a great rebounder from the 3 and can hold his own and be a matchup problem at the 4.
23. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah Jazz): Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Sr. (6-10½, 222)
The Timberwolves desperately need to add some athleticism and defense to their frontcourt because pairing Kevin Love and Al Jefferson just doesn't work at that end. Larry Sanders has the length to play center and the mobility to play power forward, so the Timberwolves can mix and match the trio how they like.
24. Atlanta Hawks: Solomon Alabi C, Florida State Jr. (7-1½, 237)
The problem of Dwight Howard isn't going to go away soon, so if the Hawks expect to compete in the East, they'll need to figure out a way to deal with him. Solomon Alabi isn't a match for Howard, and might never be, but he is big enough to give him problems.
25. Memphis Grizzles (from Denver Nuggets): Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
Quincy Pondexter is ready to contribute immediately in the NBA, not something that can be said about most prospects, and will be a valuable bench player right away for the Grizzles. He's also got some star potential and can help fill the void of Rudy Gay if he leaves.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix Suns): Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State Jr. (6-9¾, 229)
The Thunder really have no post up game or consistent inside scoring threat, so a guy like Brackins, who is already a versatile inside/outside threat and can rebound well, makes a ton of sense. He's also a high character guy, so he fits with what the Thunder want.
27. New Jersey Nets (from Dallas Mavericks): Armon Johnson PG, Nevada Jr. (6-3¼, 195)
In a lot of drafts, Armon Johnson would be the most athletic point guard going, but not this year with John Wall in the class. Still Johnson is great athlete and a solid score first point guard option. The Nets back up point guard options are Kenyon Dooling and Chris Quinn. That's bad.
28. Memphis Grizzles (from Los Angeles Lakers): Kevin Seraphin PF, France (6-10, 260)
You can't expect the Grizzles to use all their first round picks on college players, they'll most likely acquire the rights to a player overseas. Zach Randolph won't be around forever so taking a guy who'll be able to replace him down the road makes sense.
29. Orlando Magic: Lance Stephenson SG, Cincinnati Fr. (6-5¾, 227)
The Magic really need a player who can get his own shot and work outside four out system. Lance Stephenson is a big, physical guard who can get his own shot and overpower players.
30. Washington Wizards (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Tiny Gallon is a very skilled big man, he can shoot from three, handle the ball, rebound and score inside. However, his weight is a problem. If a team can get him to stay in shape, he'll be a player, so he's not a huge risk at this point in the draft.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
2010 NBA Draft Big Board: First Rounders+NBA comparisons
1. John Wall PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-4, 195)
NBA comparison: Russell Westbrook, Thunder
Derrick Rose is the most commonly used comparison, and while they are similar players, I think the way that Westbrook looks to pass more than Rose and how he plays in transition is closer to Westbrook than Rose. He should try to mirror Westbrook's defense and physical attacks to the basket.
2. Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 205)
NBA comparison: Brandon Roy, Trail Blazers
Evan Turner, like Roy, can do a little bit of everything. Both are large guards that can play the point, but also aren't afraid to go in after rebounds. Neither are elite athletes and use cleverness and size to score. Turner needs to improve his handle and shooting like Roy.
3. Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-9, 245)
NBA comparison: Amare Stoudemire, Suns
Amare is one of the few guys as big as Favors who are as long and as athletic as he is. Favors is a better defender, but both guys share that instinct to stay down in the post and battle, instead of playing on the perimeter. Favors needs to polish his game like Stoudemire's.
4. Wesley Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7, 200)
NBA comparison: Kevin Durant, Thunder
Obviously, Johnson isn't a prospect like Durant, but I think that the way they use their size, length, and athleticism is very similar. Both are so long and athletic that they can get their jump shot off over anyone, and both have a very sweet stroke. They also are a terror running the floor in transition and are good rebounders. Johnson needs to learn to handle the ball like Durant and take it to the rim.
5. DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-11, 270)
NBA comparison: Zach Randolph, Grizzles
I feel bad comparing them because they both have character issues, but it's not fair to either to compare them like that. However, Cousins and Randolph are both so huge that they can score in the paint at will and are hard to remove from rebounding position. Cousins could stand to learn better footwork by watching Randolph.
6. Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8, 205)
NBA comparison: Thaddeus Young, 76ers
Both Aminu and Young are tweeners at this point. Aminu could develop his perimeter game and become a 3, but right now he's better suited as an undersized power forward. Both players are strong rebounders. Aminu needs to develop his three point shooting and midrange game like Young has.
7. Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-10, 225)
NBA comparison: J.J Hickson,
Both are similar in height, athleticism and length, though Hickson right now is much stronger at this point. Both are pretty raw, but have a really strong motor and a few moves to build on. The main thing for Davis to do is add muscle and refine his offensive game while watching the way Hickson puts himself in positions for teammates to set him up.
8. Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 250)
NBA comparison: Lamar Odom, Lakers
Both Lamar Odom and Greg Monroe are lefties that have excellent handles for their size, are great passers, and can initiate offense for their teammates. Neither is an elite athlete, both use their size and length to be effective rebounders. Also, Odom and Monroe tend to run hot and cold a lot. Monroe needs to learn better decision making on when to balance scoring and passing.
9. Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-10, 240)
NBA comparison: Kevin Garnett, Celtics
Ekpe Udoh isn't quite the athlete that Garnett was in his prime, but both share several characteristics. First off, they're both potential game changers on defense. Not just as shot blocker, but also on-ball post defense. They also both have nice midrange games, and have an underrated part of their game in their passing ability. Udoh can learn overall offensive polish from Garnett, but also try to imitate the way he quarterbacks the defense.
10. Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11, 225)
NBA comparison: Marcus Camby, Trailblazers
Both Camby and Whiteside are athletic, lanky shotblockers with great mobility. Neither are very good scorers, though both can score just of athleticism and Whiteside is developing a jumpshot. Whiteside needs to give more consistent effort like Camby, who's a relentless defender.
11. Donatas Motiejunas PF, Lithuania (7-0, 220)
NBA comparison: Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks
Both Nowitzki and Motiejunas are capable shooters, especially from midrange, and are hard to stop in that respect because they're both so tall. Also, Motiejunas can score in the post like Nowitzki used to do. Motiejunes needs to add muscles and work on his footwork to help him get space.
12. Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-8, 245)
NBA comparison: Jeff Green, Thunder
Neither Jeff Green or Patrick Patterson are the ideal size for a power forward, however, both guys create matchup problems due to their quickness, ball handling, stretch shooting, and their speed and athleticism in transition. Patterson needs to learn how to set up defenders with his shooting to open up drives to the basket for him, something Green has mastered.
13. James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-6, 195)
NBA comparison: John Salmons, Bucks
I think that James Anderson has a lot more upside as a player than Salmons, but their offensive games are similar because neither in an explosive athlete but both can find other ways to score. They'll both shoot the lights out, but are also good a getting into the paint and scoring in the lane or at the rim. Anderson can really round out his offensive game by adding some post moves, because he, like Salmons, will have a height advantage on some 2's.
14. Daniel Orton PF/C Kentucky Fr. (6-10, 260)
NBA comparison: Kendrick Perkins, Celtics
Daniel Orton has a ton more upside than Kendrick Perkins, mainly because he moves so much better than Perkins and is a better athlete. However, at this point Orton doesn't do much besides rebound and block shots, like Perkins. Over time, I think Orton can develop a better offensive game, however right now he limited. Orton needs to embrace that role while his offense develops.
15. Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11, 245)
NBA comparison: Joel Przybilla, Blazers
Cole Aldrich is a better offensive player than Joel Przybilla, but I think that he'll be limited in NBA as far as that goes, though I'm not as high on him as others. However, he's got decent size and should be a solid rebounder and shotblocker at the next level at the least. If Aldrich can learn to be a role player, he should be a valuable asset to a team.
16. Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6, 220)
NBA comparison: Ray Allen, Celtics
Shooting is the bread-and-butter of Xavier Henry and Ray Allen. I'm not saying Henry will be the historically great shooter that Allen is, but he can really stroke it from deep. Also, both guys are underrated in their ability to get to the basket. Neither is fantastic at it, but they can get the job done. Henry could learn a lot from Allen's ability to work screens to get open looks.
17. Avery Bradley PG/SG, Texas Fr. (6-3, 180)
NBA comparison: Monta Ellis, Warriors
Avery Bradley is being sold as the next Russell Westbrook, and I think he's the best candidate for that in this draft. However, I haven't seen the playmaking ability yet from Bradley to go that far, and I think he has more in common with Monta Ellis. Both guys are either undersized shooting guards or scoring point guards, depending on which position they play. They're great athletes who can get to the rim at will. Ellis isn't a great passer, but he's started using his quickness to set his teammates up better, something Bradley needs to learn if he wants to be a point.
18. Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Jr. (6-10, 235)
NBA comparison: Serge Ibaka, Thunder
It's hard to find a guy who compares to Larry Sander's insane 7-7 wingspan, but Ibaka comes close. Neither guy is a polished player, but both are dominating shot blockers and rebounders. The offense is a work in progress, but they're developing post moves and a nice midrange jumper. If Sanders comes into the league and works as hard, both on and off the court, as Ibaka did in his rookie year, he'll have a big impact.
19. Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State Jr. (6-10, 230)
NBA comparison: LaMarcus Aldridge, Trail Blazers
Craig Brackins and LaMarcus Aldridge are versatile scorers with great length and athleticism. Both guys can score inside and out, can rebound very well, but aren't always a force on defense. If Brackins can improve his motor like Aldridge did, then he'll be a star. Brackins should also try to become the pick and roll/pop threat that Aldridge did.
20. Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 200)
NBA comparison: Mike Dunleavy Jr.
Both Mike Dunleavy and Gordon Heyward are big for wing players and can shoot the lights out. Heyward is a better athlete, and should be more versatile on offense than Dunleavy. Both guys are good rebounders. Heyward, who like Dunleavy, was top dog in college and could get away with stuff that won't always work in the NBA. If Heyward can learn to play within himself, he'll be a valuable piece.
21. Paul George SG/SF, Fresno State So. (6-7, 185)
NBA comparison: Danny Granger, Pacers
Paul George and Danny Granger are explosive scorers, capable of getting hot from deep and then opening up the rest of their game through that. Both guys are very athletic, though Granger is about 35 pounds heavier and more of a natural 3. However, I think both their offensive games are similar. If George does play shooting guard, which I think he should, he can learn from the ways Granger uses his size advantage.
22. Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (6-4, 195)
NBA comparison: Jamal Crawford, Hawks
Besides the fact that they share the same last name, both Jordan and Jamal Crawford (no relation) are natural scorers, able to put up huge amounts of points in mere minutes. Both guys have in-the-gym range, are effective slashers and know how to draw fouls. Once they get going, they're unstoppable scorers. Jamal Crawford did a great job using the threat of his scoring to set up teammates last year, and Jordan Crawford can do the same.
23. Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1, 190)
NBA comparison: Kyle Lowry, Rockets
Both Kyle Lowry and Eric Bledsoe are tough, small, superquick, athletic point guards who love to get out and run. They're pass first point guards who use their quickness to set up teammates and get to the rim. 3-point shooting needs work, but they can fill it up from deep when they get hot. They also love to push the tempo. Lowry has learned to take better care of the ball and Bledsoe definitely needs work there.
24. Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
NBA comparison: Luol Deng, Bulls
When Luol Deng came into the league, he had no three point shot and made his living of using his length and athleticism to slash and be a tough defender. He also had a nice midrange game, that he eventually expanded to the three point line. Quincy Pondexter is in a similar situation and can learn from the way Deng did things.
25. Terrico White SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 210)
NBA comparison: Jason Richardson, Suns
Both Terrico White and Jason Richardson are big, extremely athletic 2 guards that can really throw down. Richardson had become a very good three point shooter, but when he entered the league he wasn't a good shooter. However, he had the athleticism to get his shot off when he wants and get good looks at the basket. If White can add consistent 3 point shooting to his ability to handle the ball, slash and finish, he'll be tough to handle.
26. Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-8, 225)
NBA comparison: Gerald Wallace, Bobcats
When Gerald Wallace came into the league all he had was his hops and tenacious rebounding. He's become one the best defensive players and a fantastic rebounder, despite being 6-7. Since then he's slowly expanded his offensive game, adding range out to the three point line. Damion James is in a similar situation and should being his motor, tough rebounding and defense to any team. He's got the ability to be a consistent scorer, and if he can work that out he's be a quality on any team.
27. Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (7-1, 250)
NBA comparison: Robin Lopez, Suns
Both Solomon Alabi and Robin Lopez have tremendous size, however they haven't quite figured out how to use it yet (Lopez has this year, but he wasn't a great rebounder in college or his rookie year). They're both good shot blockers, but should be better. Once Lopez figured it out, he became a very important player in his second season for a playoff team. Alabi has some nice base skills to expand on, but he needs the coaching he couldn't get in college to become the player he should.
28. Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa Sr. (7-0, 250)
NBA comparison: Jermaine O'Neal
Before injuries derailed him, Jermaine O'Neal was very good starting center. He was an excellent rebounder and a ferocious shot blocker. But most of all, he was able to use his quickness and athleticism to score down low. If Jerome Jordan can develop the face-up game O'Neal has, he'll become a very similar player.
29. Darington Hobson SF, New Mexico Jr. (6-7, 205)
NBA comparison: Boris Diaw, Bobcats
Boris Diaw doesn't do anything great, but he's on of the more unique players in the league because he's a 6-8 forward that can handle the ball, pass, shoot, rebound, and defend. Darington Hobson can do all those things too and is also a leader and scorer. If Hobson can become a role player in the NBA, he can become a huge asset to a playoff team because of his ability to play so many positions, create match up problems, and be a swiss army knife for his team.
30. Dominique Jones SG, South Florida Jr. (6-4, 205)
NBA comparison: Tyreke Evans, Kings
Dominique Jones is a scorer plain and simple. Like Evans, he's not a elite athlete, but still excels at getting to the rim with a quick first step and scoring in the paint with layups and short jump shots. Both guys have great body control and can get shots to fall while hanging in the air. They're also both streaky long range shooters, but can get hot and bury a team.
Just missed: Luke Babbitt, Nevada; Kevin Seraphin, France; Willie Warren, Oklahoma; Devin Ebanks, West Virginia; Lance Stephenson, Cincinnati.
NBA comparison: Russell Westbrook, Thunder
Derrick Rose is the most commonly used comparison, and while they are similar players, I think the way that Westbrook looks to pass more than Rose and how he plays in transition is closer to Westbrook than Rose. He should try to mirror Westbrook's defense and physical attacks to the basket.
2. Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 205)
NBA comparison: Brandon Roy, Trail Blazers
Evan Turner, like Roy, can do a little bit of everything. Both are large guards that can play the point, but also aren't afraid to go in after rebounds. Neither are elite athletes and use cleverness and size to score. Turner needs to improve his handle and shooting like Roy.
3. Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-9, 245)
NBA comparison: Amare Stoudemire, Suns
Amare is one of the few guys as big as Favors who are as long and as athletic as he is. Favors is a better defender, but both guys share that instinct to stay down in the post and battle, instead of playing on the perimeter. Favors needs to polish his game like Stoudemire's.
4. Wesley Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7, 200)
NBA comparison: Kevin Durant, Thunder
Obviously, Johnson isn't a prospect like Durant, but I think that the way they use their size, length, and athleticism is very similar. Both are so long and athletic that they can get their jump shot off over anyone, and both have a very sweet stroke. They also are a terror running the floor in transition and are good rebounders. Johnson needs to learn to handle the ball like Durant and take it to the rim.
5. DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-11, 270)
NBA comparison: Zach Randolph, Grizzles
I feel bad comparing them because they both have character issues, but it's not fair to either to compare them like that. However, Cousins and Randolph are both so huge that they can score in the paint at will and are hard to remove from rebounding position. Cousins could stand to learn better footwork by watching Randolph.
6. Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8, 205)
NBA comparison: Thaddeus Young, 76ers
Both Aminu and Young are tweeners at this point. Aminu could develop his perimeter game and become a 3, but right now he's better suited as an undersized power forward. Both players are strong rebounders. Aminu needs to develop his three point shooting and midrange game like Young has.
7. Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-10, 225)
NBA comparison: J.J Hickson,
Both are similar in height, athleticism and length, though Hickson right now is much stronger at this point. Both are pretty raw, but have a really strong motor and a few moves to build on. The main thing for Davis to do is add muscle and refine his offensive game while watching the way Hickson puts himself in positions for teammates to set him up.
8. Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 250)
NBA comparison: Lamar Odom, Lakers
Both Lamar Odom and Greg Monroe are lefties that have excellent handles for their size, are great passers, and can initiate offense for their teammates. Neither is an elite athlete, both use their size and length to be effective rebounders. Also, Odom and Monroe tend to run hot and cold a lot. Monroe needs to learn better decision making on when to balance scoring and passing.
9. Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-10, 240)
NBA comparison: Kevin Garnett, Celtics
Ekpe Udoh isn't quite the athlete that Garnett was in his prime, but both share several characteristics. First off, they're both potential game changers on defense. Not just as shot blocker, but also on-ball post defense. They also both have nice midrange games, and have an underrated part of their game in their passing ability. Udoh can learn overall offensive polish from Garnett, but also try to imitate the way he quarterbacks the defense.
10. Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11, 225)
NBA comparison: Marcus Camby, Trailblazers
Both Camby and Whiteside are athletic, lanky shotblockers with great mobility. Neither are very good scorers, though both can score just of athleticism and Whiteside is developing a jumpshot. Whiteside needs to give more consistent effort like Camby, who's a relentless defender.
11. Donatas Motiejunas PF, Lithuania (7-0, 220)
NBA comparison: Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks
Both Nowitzki and Motiejunas are capable shooters, especially from midrange, and are hard to stop in that respect because they're both so tall. Also, Motiejunas can score in the post like Nowitzki used to do. Motiejunes needs to add muscles and work on his footwork to help him get space.
12. Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-8, 245)
NBA comparison: Jeff Green, Thunder
Neither Jeff Green or Patrick Patterson are the ideal size for a power forward, however, both guys create matchup problems due to their quickness, ball handling, stretch shooting, and their speed and athleticism in transition. Patterson needs to learn how to set up defenders with his shooting to open up drives to the basket for him, something Green has mastered.
13. James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-6, 195)
NBA comparison: John Salmons, Bucks
I think that James Anderson has a lot more upside as a player than Salmons, but their offensive games are similar because neither in an explosive athlete but both can find other ways to score. They'll both shoot the lights out, but are also good a getting into the paint and scoring in the lane or at the rim. Anderson can really round out his offensive game by adding some post moves, because he, like Salmons, will have a height advantage on some 2's.
14. Daniel Orton PF/C Kentucky Fr. (6-10, 260)
NBA comparison: Kendrick Perkins, Celtics
Daniel Orton has a ton more upside than Kendrick Perkins, mainly because he moves so much better than Perkins and is a better athlete. However, at this point Orton doesn't do much besides rebound and block shots, like Perkins. Over time, I think Orton can develop a better offensive game, however right now he limited. Orton needs to embrace that role while his offense develops.
15. Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11, 245)
NBA comparison: Joel Przybilla, Blazers
Cole Aldrich is a better offensive player than Joel Przybilla, but I think that he'll be limited in NBA as far as that goes, though I'm not as high on him as others. However, he's got decent size and should be a solid rebounder and shotblocker at the next level at the least. If Aldrich can learn to be a role player, he should be a valuable asset to a team.
16. Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6, 220)
NBA comparison: Ray Allen, Celtics
Shooting is the bread-and-butter of Xavier Henry and Ray Allen. I'm not saying Henry will be the historically great shooter that Allen is, but he can really stroke it from deep. Also, both guys are underrated in their ability to get to the basket. Neither is fantastic at it, but they can get the job done. Henry could learn a lot from Allen's ability to work screens to get open looks.
17. Avery Bradley PG/SG, Texas Fr. (6-3, 180)
NBA comparison: Monta Ellis, Warriors
Avery Bradley is being sold as the next Russell Westbrook, and I think he's the best candidate for that in this draft. However, I haven't seen the playmaking ability yet from Bradley to go that far, and I think he has more in common with Monta Ellis. Both guys are either undersized shooting guards or scoring point guards, depending on which position they play. They're great athletes who can get to the rim at will. Ellis isn't a great passer, but he's started using his quickness to set his teammates up better, something Bradley needs to learn if he wants to be a point.
18. Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Jr. (6-10, 235)
NBA comparison: Serge Ibaka, Thunder
It's hard to find a guy who compares to Larry Sander's insane 7-7 wingspan, but Ibaka comes close. Neither guy is a polished player, but both are dominating shot blockers and rebounders. The offense is a work in progress, but they're developing post moves and a nice midrange jumper. If Sanders comes into the league and works as hard, both on and off the court, as Ibaka did in his rookie year, he'll have a big impact.
19. Craig Brackins PF, Iowa State Jr. (6-10, 230)
NBA comparison: LaMarcus Aldridge, Trail Blazers
Craig Brackins and LaMarcus Aldridge are versatile scorers with great length and athleticism. Both guys can score inside and out, can rebound very well, but aren't always a force on defense. If Brackins can improve his motor like Aldridge did, then he'll be a star. Brackins should also try to become the pick and roll/pop threat that Aldridge did.
20. Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 200)
NBA comparison: Mike Dunleavy Jr.
Both Mike Dunleavy and Gordon Heyward are big for wing players and can shoot the lights out. Heyward is a better athlete, and should be more versatile on offense than Dunleavy. Both guys are good rebounders. Heyward, who like Dunleavy, was top dog in college and could get away with stuff that won't always work in the NBA. If Heyward can learn to play within himself, he'll be a valuable piece.
21. Paul George SG/SF, Fresno State So. (6-7, 185)
NBA comparison: Danny Granger, Pacers
Paul George and Danny Granger are explosive scorers, capable of getting hot from deep and then opening up the rest of their game through that. Both guys are very athletic, though Granger is about 35 pounds heavier and more of a natural 3. However, I think both their offensive games are similar. If George does play shooting guard, which I think he should, he can learn from the ways Granger uses his size advantage.
22. Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (6-4, 195)
NBA comparison: Jamal Crawford, Hawks
Besides the fact that they share the same last name, both Jordan and Jamal Crawford (no relation) are natural scorers, able to put up huge amounts of points in mere minutes. Both guys have in-the-gym range, are effective slashers and know how to draw fouls. Once they get going, they're unstoppable scorers. Jamal Crawford did a great job using the threat of his scoring to set up teammates last year, and Jordan Crawford can do the same.
23. Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1, 190)
NBA comparison: Kyle Lowry, Rockets
Both Kyle Lowry and Eric Bledsoe are tough, small, superquick, athletic point guards who love to get out and run. They're pass first point guards who use their quickness to set up teammates and get to the rim. 3-point shooting needs work, but they can fill it up from deep when they get hot. They also love to push the tempo. Lowry has learned to take better care of the ball and Bledsoe definitely needs work there.
24. Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
NBA comparison: Luol Deng, Bulls
When Luol Deng came into the league, he had no three point shot and made his living of using his length and athleticism to slash and be a tough defender. He also had a nice midrange game, that he eventually expanded to the three point line. Quincy Pondexter is in a similar situation and can learn from the way Deng did things.
25. Terrico White SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 210)
NBA comparison: Jason Richardson, Suns
Both Terrico White and Jason Richardson are big, extremely athletic 2 guards that can really throw down. Richardson had become a very good three point shooter, but when he entered the league he wasn't a good shooter. However, he had the athleticism to get his shot off when he wants and get good looks at the basket. If White can add consistent 3 point shooting to his ability to handle the ball, slash and finish, he'll be tough to handle.
26. Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-8, 225)
NBA comparison: Gerald Wallace, Bobcats
When Gerald Wallace came into the league all he had was his hops and tenacious rebounding. He's become one the best defensive players and a fantastic rebounder, despite being 6-7. Since then he's slowly expanded his offensive game, adding range out to the three point line. Damion James is in a similar situation and should being his motor, tough rebounding and defense to any team. He's got the ability to be a consistent scorer, and if he can work that out he's be a quality on any team.
27. Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (7-1, 250)
NBA comparison: Robin Lopez, Suns
Both Solomon Alabi and Robin Lopez have tremendous size, however they haven't quite figured out how to use it yet (Lopez has this year, but he wasn't a great rebounder in college or his rookie year). They're both good shot blockers, but should be better. Once Lopez figured it out, he became a very important player in his second season for a playoff team. Alabi has some nice base skills to expand on, but he needs the coaching he couldn't get in college to become the player he should.
28. Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa Sr. (7-0, 250)
NBA comparison: Jermaine O'Neal
Before injuries derailed him, Jermaine O'Neal was very good starting center. He was an excellent rebounder and a ferocious shot blocker. But most of all, he was able to use his quickness and athleticism to score down low. If Jerome Jordan can develop the face-up game O'Neal has, he'll become a very similar player.
29. Darington Hobson SF, New Mexico Jr. (6-7, 205)
NBA comparison: Boris Diaw, Bobcats
Boris Diaw doesn't do anything great, but he's on of the more unique players in the league because he's a 6-8 forward that can handle the ball, pass, shoot, rebound, and defend. Darington Hobson can do all those things too and is also a leader and scorer. If Hobson can become a role player in the NBA, he can become a huge asset to a playoff team because of his ability to play so many positions, create match up problems, and be a swiss army knife for his team.
30. Dominique Jones SG, South Florida Jr. (6-4, 205)
NBA comparison: Tyreke Evans, Kings
Dominique Jones is a scorer plain and simple. Like Evans, he's not a elite athlete, but still excels at getting to the rim with a quick first step and scoring in the paint with layups and short jump shots. Both guys have great body control and can get shots to fall while hanging in the air. They're also both streaky long range shooters, but can get hot and bury a team.
Just missed: Luke Babbitt, Nevada; Kevin Seraphin, France; Willie Warren, Oklahoma; Devin Ebanks, West Virginia; Lance Stephenson, Cincinnati.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
NBA Mock: 2nd Round
31. New Jersey Nets: Stanley Robinson SF, UCONN Sr. (6-7¾, 215)
The Nets have two promising young players who can play small forward, Chris Douglas-Roberts and Terrence Williams, but neither guy is very tall and both will have trouble matching up against the bigger 3's in the league. Stanley Robinson is a big time athlete and the potential lockdown wing defender that every good team needs.
32. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Minnesota Timberwolves): Dexter Pittman C, Texas Sr. (6-11½, 303)
The Thunder need a large, post-rooted big man to complement to the more mobile Serge Ibaka. Dexter Pittman is the beast down low the Thunder need, even if it's for 20 minutes a game. He's also a huge body to set screens for Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.
33. Sacramento Kings: Terrico White PG/SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 203)
Terrico White adds great versatility to the Kings backcourt, because he can play the point as a scoring point guard, or play off the ball, spot up and cut. He'll be a good fit with Tyreke Evans and also Beno Udrih.
34. Washington Wizards: Darington Hobson SG/SF, New Mexico Jr. (6-6½, 204)
Darington Hobson is the kind of role player every team needs. He can play the 1, 2, and 3, is a great passer, can rebound, and score. He'll be a nice fourth or fifth option or glue guy off the bench.
35. Golden State Warriors: Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa Sr. (7-0¾, 244)
The Warriors missed on one of the elite big men in the first round, but have a chance to grab a guy like Jerome Jordan. Hopefully he can bulk up and become the post defender they need. He's also athletic and can shoot, a Don Nelson must.
36. Detroit Pistons: Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 233)
The Pistons continue to remake their frontcourt with young talent. Gani Lawal has the potential to be a pretty good forward, but at his worst he should be a good hustle player off the bench. The value of the 20 minute a game big man in the NBA is undervalued.
37. Milwaukee Bucks (from Philadelphia 76ers): Trevor Booker PF, Clemson Sr. (6-7½, 236)
Trevor Booker is a Scott Skiles guy through and through. He's tough, plays extremely hard, and is a emotional leader. I can see him excelling next to Andrew Bogut and with Brandon Jennings playing the point.
38. New York Knicks: Elliot Williams SG, Memphis So. (6-4, 180)
If Elliot Williams was two inches taller, he'd be a lottery pick. I don't know if he'll be anything but a backup guard, but he's got the scoring ability and stopper potential to be a solid starter.
39. New York Knicks (from Denver Nuggets): Miroslav Raduljica C, Serbia (7-1, 250)
Mike D'Antoni loves foreign players and the Knicks are desperate for a center, because as of today Eddy Curry is their starter there. Raduljica might not want to play in the NBA, but if he does, he's ready to contribute to a winning team. It's a risk worth taking.
40. Indiana Pacers: Tibor Pleiss C, Germany (7-0, 220)
The Pacers don't have a lot of cap space, so taking Euro project makes sense. Tibor Pleiss is a skilled, pretty athletic big man. However, he needs to add a ton of muscle and refine his game.
41. Miami Heat (from New Orleans Hornets): Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia So. (6-8¼, 208)
If the Heat want to add two max guys and contend in the East, they'll need to deal with LeBron and Paul Peirce, Devin Ebanks is gritty, long and athletic, a perfect defensive stopper. He was a great defender in college and has the potential to be a special one in the pros.
42. Miami Heat (from Toronto Raptors): Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Tiny Gallon is a good fit playing next to Dwyane Wade because he can crash the glass and spot up off penetration.
43. Los Angeles Lakers (from Memphis Grizzles): Ryan Richards PF/C, England (6-11¾, 230)
Whether the Lakers trade for Chris Bosh or not, the need frontcourt depth. Ryan Richards is inexperienced, but he brings an nice skill set to the triangle offense and great size. He can play both the 4 and the 5.
44. Portland Trailblazers (from Chicago Bulls): Willie Warren PG/SG, Oklahoma So. (6-3¾, 208)
Willie Warren has talent, and can score, but he's got some serious attitude issues to deal with and didn't test out as well or perform great in workouts. Still, the Blazers could use him as a backup and shooter off of Brandon Roy.
45. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Houston Rockets): Dominique Jones SG, South Florida Jr. (6-5, 216)
Dominique Jones could go in the first round, and probably should. Still, concerns about his athleticism and shot will probably drop him some. He'll be a valuable scorer off the bench.
46. Phoenix Suns (from Charlotte Bobcats): Derrick Caracter PF, UTEP Jr. (6-9½, 280)
It looks like Amare Stoudmire won't be coming back to Phoenix, so a replacement needs to be found. Derrick Caracter is already a skilled low post scorer and will benefit greatly by playing next to Steve Nash. His character concerns will be nullified by a veteran team.
47. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikhail Torrance PG, Alabama Sr. (6-5, 209)
The Bucks will mostly likely need a backup point guard next year, and Mikhail Torrance is a great option. He's a nice, big alternative to the smaller Brandon Jennings, and can also play the 2 beside Jennings. He's also a promising defender.
48. Miami Heat: Manny Harris SG, Michigan Jr. (6-5½, 185)
Part of the Heats problem is that they don't have enough players who can create for themselves. Manny Harris is very good at that, and is a good passer as well. He'll be able to give Wade a rest and fill his role to an extent.
49. San Antonio Spurs (from Boston Celtics): Pablo Aguilar SF, Spain (6-8, 210)
Pablo Aguilar isn't a really well know prospect, but he's the kind of player the Spurs identify and turn into a star in a couple years.
50. Dallas Mavericks (from San Antonio Spurs): Charles Garcia PF, Seattle Jr. (6-9¼, 232)
The Mavericks current back up power forward is Eduardo Najera. They need to add some youth, athleticism and potential to that spot.
51. Oklahoma City Thunder: Andy Rautins PG/SG, Syracuse Sr. (6-5, 192)
The Thunder could really use some shooters, and Rautins is one of the best. He's also a unselfish passer and a leader.
52. Boston Celtics: Sherron Collins PG, Kansas Sr. (5-11
When Tony Allen and Nate Robinson are you options at back up point guard, you need to find a better option.
53. Atlanta Hawks: Sylven Landesberg SG, Virginia So. (6-6¼, 210)
Sylven Landesburg is a talented player with an NBA body, if he can keep his head on straight, he'll be a contributor.
54. Los Angeles Clipper (from Denver Nuggets): Tyren Johnson SF, Louisiana-Lafayette Sr. (6-8, 204)
Even if the Clippers draft Gordon Heyward, they'll still need another small forward because they have none on the roster right now.
55. Utah Jazz: Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland St. (6-6½, 211)
I'm not sure who he'll guard in the NBA, but he's an emotional leader and has a nack for the spectacular. He may never be anything but a backup, but he'll always play his hardest.
56. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Phoenix Suns): Da'Sean Butler SF, West Virginia Sr. (6-8, 225)
Da'Sean Butler has the highest intangibles of anyone in this draft. If he can recover from a knee injury, he'll be a nice addition to a young team.
57. Indiana Pacers (from Dallas Mavericks:) Jon Scheyer PG/SG, Duke Sr. (6-6, 180)
They say you need one elite skill to make it in the NBA. I don't know what Jon Scheyer's is, but a team like Indiana will love him as a backup point guard.
58. Los Angeles Lakers: Ben Uzoh PG, Tulsa Sr. (6-3, 200)
Even if Derek Fisher is resigned, Shannon Brown and Jordan Farmar probably won't be. Ben Uzoh will be a perfect fit for what the Lakers run, if he can develop a more consistent shot.
59. Orlando Magic: Dwayne Collins PF, Miami Sr. (6-8, 240)
When you have Rashard Lewis as your starting 4, you're giving up some toughness at that position. Dwayne Collins probably won't make the Magic's roster, but he's a local kid who certainly is tough.
60. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Luke Harengody PF, Notre Dame Sr. (6-7¾, 240)
You can't replace a guy like Amare with only one player. Even if Derrick Caracter works out, a guy like Luke Harengody would work well in the Suns system and fit in with their gritty, tough bench.
The Nets have two promising young players who can play small forward, Chris Douglas-Roberts and Terrence Williams, but neither guy is very tall and both will have trouble matching up against the bigger 3's in the league. Stanley Robinson is a big time athlete and the potential lockdown wing defender that every good team needs.
32. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Minnesota Timberwolves): Dexter Pittman C, Texas Sr. (6-11½, 303)
The Thunder need a large, post-rooted big man to complement to the more mobile Serge Ibaka. Dexter Pittman is the beast down low the Thunder need, even if it's for 20 minutes a game. He's also a huge body to set screens for Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.
33. Sacramento Kings: Terrico White PG/SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 203)
Terrico White adds great versatility to the Kings backcourt, because he can play the point as a scoring point guard, or play off the ball, spot up and cut. He'll be a good fit with Tyreke Evans and also Beno Udrih.
34. Washington Wizards: Darington Hobson SG/SF, New Mexico Jr. (6-6½, 204)
Darington Hobson is the kind of role player every team needs. He can play the 1, 2, and 3, is a great passer, can rebound, and score. He'll be a nice fourth or fifth option or glue guy off the bench.
35. Golden State Warriors: Jerome Jordan C, Tulsa Sr. (7-0¾, 244)
The Warriors missed on one of the elite big men in the first round, but have a chance to grab a guy like Jerome Jordan. Hopefully he can bulk up and become the post defender they need. He's also athletic and can shoot, a Don Nelson must.
36. Detroit Pistons: Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 233)
The Pistons continue to remake their frontcourt with young talent. Gani Lawal has the potential to be a pretty good forward, but at his worst he should be a good hustle player off the bench. The value of the 20 minute a game big man in the NBA is undervalued.
37. Milwaukee Bucks (from Philadelphia 76ers): Trevor Booker PF, Clemson Sr. (6-7½, 236)
Trevor Booker is a Scott Skiles guy through and through. He's tough, plays extremely hard, and is a emotional leader. I can see him excelling next to Andrew Bogut and with Brandon Jennings playing the point.
38. New York Knicks: Elliot Williams SG, Memphis So. (6-4, 180)
If Elliot Williams was two inches taller, he'd be a lottery pick. I don't know if he'll be anything but a backup guard, but he's got the scoring ability and stopper potential to be a solid starter.
39. New York Knicks (from Denver Nuggets): Miroslav Raduljica C, Serbia (7-1, 250)
Mike D'Antoni loves foreign players and the Knicks are desperate for a center, because as of today Eddy Curry is their starter there. Raduljica might not want to play in the NBA, but if he does, he's ready to contribute to a winning team. It's a risk worth taking.
40. Indiana Pacers: Tibor Pleiss C, Germany (7-0, 220)
The Pacers don't have a lot of cap space, so taking Euro project makes sense. Tibor Pleiss is a skilled, pretty athletic big man. However, he needs to add a ton of muscle and refine his game.
41. Miami Heat (from New Orleans Hornets): Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia So. (6-8¼, 208)
If the Heat want to add two max guys and contend in the East, they'll need to deal with LeBron and Paul Peirce, Devin Ebanks is gritty, long and athletic, a perfect defensive stopper. He was a great defender in college and has the potential to be a special one in the pros.
42. Miami Heat (from Toronto Raptors): Keith Gallon PF, Oklahoma Fr. (6-9½, 302)
Tiny Gallon is a good fit playing next to Dwyane Wade because he can crash the glass and spot up off penetration.
43. Los Angeles Lakers (from Memphis Grizzles): Ryan Richards PF/C, England (6-11¾, 230)
Whether the Lakers trade for Chris Bosh or not, the need frontcourt depth. Ryan Richards is inexperienced, but he brings an nice skill set to the triangle offense and great size. He can play both the 4 and the 5.
44. Portland Trailblazers (from Chicago Bulls): Willie Warren PG/SG, Oklahoma So. (6-3¾, 208)
Willie Warren has talent, and can score, but he's got some serious attitude issues to deal with and didn't test out as well or perform great in workouts. Still, the Blazers could use him as a backup and shooter off of Brandon Roy.
45. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Houston Rockets): Dominique Jones SG, South Florida Jr. (6-5, 216)
Dominique Jones could go in the first round, and probably should. Still, concerns about his athleticism and shot will probably drop him some. He'll be a valuable scorer off the bench.
46. Phoenix Suns (from Charlotte Bobcats): Derrick Caracter PF, UTEP Jr. (6-9½, 280)
It looks like Amare Stoudmire won't be coming back to Phoenix, so a replacement needs to be found. Derrick Caracter is already a skilled low post scorer and will benefit greatly by playing next to Steve Nash. His character concerns will be nullified by a veteran team.
47. Milwaukee Bucks: Mikhail Torrance PG, Alabama Sr. (6-5, 209)
The Bucks will mostly likely need a backup point guard next year, and Mikhail Torrance is a great option. He's a nice, big alternative to the smaller Brandon Jennings, and can also play the 2 beside Jennings. He's also a promising defender.
48. Miami Heat: Manny Harris SG, Michigan Jr. (6-5½, 185)
Part of the Heats problem is that they don't have enough players who can create for themselves. Manny Harris is very good at that, and is a good passer as well. He'll be able to give Wade a rest and fill his role to an extent.
49. San Antonio Spurs (from Boston Celtics): Pablo Aguilar SF, Spain (6-8, 210)
Pablo Aguilar isn't a really well know prospect, but he's the kind of player the Spurs identify and turn into a star in a couple years.
50. Dallas Mavericks (from San Antonio Spurs): Charles Garcia PF, Seattle Jr. (6-9¼, 232)
The Mavericks current back up power forward is Eduardo Najera. They need to add some youth, athleticism and potential to that spot.
51. Oklahoma City Thunder: Andy Rautins PG/SG, Syracuse Sr. (6-5, 192)
The Thunder could really use some shooters, and Rautins is one of the best. He's also a unselfish passer and a leader.
52. Boston Celtics: Sherron Collins PG, Kansas Sr. (5-11
When Tony Allen and Nate Robinson are you options at back up point guard, you need to find a better option.
53. Atlanta Hawks: Sylven Landesberg SG, Virginia So. (6-6¼, 210)
Sylven Landesburg is a talented player with an NBA body, if he can keep his head on straight, he'll be a contributor.
54. Los Angeles Clipper (from Denver Nuggets): Tyren Johnson SF, Louisiana-Lafayette Sr. (6-8, 204)
Even if the Clippers draft Gordon Heyward, they'll still need another small forward because they have none on the roster right now.
55. Utah Jazz: Greivis Vasquez PG, Maryland St. (6-6½, 211)
I'm not sure who he'll guard in the NBA, but he's an emotional leader and has a nack for the spectacular. He may never be anything but a backup, but he'll always play his hardest.
56. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Phoenix Suns): Da'Sean Butler SF, West Virginia Sr. (6-8, 225)
Da'Sean Butler has the highest intangibles of anyone in this draft. If he can recover from a knee injury, he'll be a nice addition to a young team.
57. Indiana Pacers (from Dallas Mavericks:) Jon Scheyer PG/SG, Duke Sr. (6-6, 180)
They say you need one elite skill to make it in the NBA. I don't know what Jon Scheyer's is, but a team like Indiana will love him as a backup point guard.
58. Los Angeles Lakers: Ben Uzoh PG, Tulsa Sr. (6-3, 200)
Even if Derek Fisher is resigned, Shannon Brown and Jordan Farmar probably won't be. Ben Uzoh will be a perfect fit for what the Lakers run, if he can develop a more consistent shot.
59. Orlando Magic: Dwayne Collins PF, Miami Sr. (6-8, 240)
When you have Rashard Lewis as your starting 4, you're giving up some toughness at that position. Dwayne Collins probably won't make the Magic's roster, but he's a local kid who certainly is tough.
60. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Luke Harengody PF, Notre Dame Sr. (6-7¾, 240)
You can't replace a guy like Amare with only one player. Even if Derrick Caracter works out, a guy like Luke Harengody would work well in the Suns system and fit in with their gritty, tough bench.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
NBA Mock: Postseason edition
1. New Jersey Nets: John Wall PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-4, 195)
John Wall led the Wildcats to a SEC regular season and tournament championship, but couldn't get them past West Virginia and into the Final Four, despite trying to take the team on his back and playing his heart out. The tournament has proved once and for all that John Wall has everything you'd want in a prospect. He's an unbelievable athlete, a fiercely competitive leader, a character guy, and a great combination as a guy who can step in day one and help his team and massive amounts of untapped potential. He's the clear number one pick no matter who's drafting; look I love Evan Turner, but seriously just watch a couple minutes of him and compare it with a couple minutes of Wall. Turner can be a valuable player, but Wall can be a superstar, if only due to his athletic upside.
The Nets need to add talent and John Wall is the most talented player in the draft, it's as simple as that.
Final season stats: 34.6 mpg, 16.6 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 6.5 apg, 1.8 spg, 0.5 bpg, 4.0 tpg, 46%/32%/75% (field goal/three point/free throw)
2. Minnesota Timberwolves: Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 205)
Evan Turner had a very up and down postseason. He had a couple good games and a couple bad ones. He hit game winners (Michigan) and turned down a wide open teammate to take a contested shot which he missed as Ohio State lost to Tennessee. However, overall, considering the amount of things Turner has to for Ohio State for them to have a chance, he did a great job carrying his team further than perhaps there talent warrented. Something he's been doing all year. Turnovers remain an issue in the postseason (same for Wall) at over 6 per game, but since Turner won't have to handle the ball nearly as much in the NBA, so that shouldn't be a big problem.
The Wolves have holes everywhere on their roster, so taking a versatile guy in Turner makes sense. Plus, I love his passing ability in the triangle offense.
Final season stats: 35.8 mpg, 20.4 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 6.0 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.9 bpg, 4.4 tpg, 51%/36%/75%
3. Sacramento Kings: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-9, 245)
Derrick Favors, despite the ineptitude of Georgia Tech's backcourt, did his very best to put the Yellow Jackets on his back and carry them when he got the chance. He didn't get a ton of shots, but when he did he shot 64% from the field and led Tech to a close loss in the ACC Tournament Final and to a first round win in the NCAA Tournament, despite being an underdog. Favors showed much more aggressivness, looking for his shot when he got the ball, showing a nice midrange game, and anchoring the Tech defense averaging 8.6 rebounds and 2.1 blocks. He showed that when he get the ball, he can convert at high rate and be a monster in the paint.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.o apg, 0.9 spg, 2.1 bpg, 2.5 tpg, 61%/NA/62%
4. Golden State Warriors: DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-11, 270)
DeMarcus Cousins helped his stock with his play this postseason, but also hurt it with his attitude, especially in the Wildcats Elite 8 loss to West Virgina, where his unappealing demeanor will unfortunately be the last thing NBA teams got to see from him. No doubt he's talent, but the headcase factor will cause him to drop below safer players. The numbers however, are impressive: 26 mpg, 13 ppg, 9.1 rpg and shooting a insane 69% from the field over seven postseason games. He did get into a little foul trouble however, but it he played his average amount of minutes. If a team is willing to take a chance on Cousins' issues, he could got three but I think teams picking that high won't want to take that risk.
If Don Nelson is retiring, the Warriors will hopefully look to play a more NBA style offense as apposed to the run and gun. Cousins will help a lot in the half court as well as on the boards, two places the Warriors are weak.
Final season stats: 23.5 mpg, 15.1 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.0 spg, 1.8 bpg, 2.1 tpg, 56%/17%/60%
5. Washington Wizards: Wesley Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7, 200)
Syracuse's season ended in disappointment, but don't blame Wes Johnson. Finally healed from a hand injury that hurt his shooting percentage, Johnson ripped it up in the postseason (shooting 60% from the field, 61% from 3) and reminded everyone why he's first team All-America and the Big East POY. Anyone who tuned into see Johnson during his injury-induced slump might wonder what the big deal was. Johnson is a rare prospect that can average 16 points, 8 rebounds, 50 percent from field, 40 percent from 3, and almost 2 blocks and steals a game that can also play 3 positions (PF, SF, SG)..
The Wizards need to add premier talent and quality guys. Wes Johnson is both and a potential centerpiece star for the rebuilding project they've started there.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.o apg, 0.9 spg, 2.1 bpg, 2.5 tpg, 61%/NA/62%
6. Philadelphia 76ers: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8, 205)
For anyone who wants to know the value of Al-Farouq Aminu to his team, just watch Wake Forest's two NCAA Tournament games. Aminu was dominant in the Demon Deacons win over Texas (20 points, 15 boards) and when he was forced to leave the Deacons game against Kentucky due to fouls, the Wildcats blew them out of the water. He was clearly missed at both ends of the floor. Aminu has been up and down this year, as he's still trying to put it all together. He's clearly incredibly physically talented and is starting to show that he's got a good feel for the game, but it's really all about potential with him. Pair that with a great motor and you've got a top ten pick.
The only true small forward on the Sixers roster is Jason Kapono. That's not good. Aminu fills that role and gives Philly another potential star to pair with Jrue Holiday for years to come.
Final season stats: 31.3 mpg, 15.8 ppg, 10.7 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg. 3.2 tpg, 45%/27%/70%
7. Detroit Pistons: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11, 245)
As he's been all season, Cole Aldrich was good, not great in the postseason. He's not a guy who'll take over a game, he doesn't have star potential. The guy he's compared to is Joel Przybilla, who is a great backup center, but do you really want a guy like him in the top ten picks? Aldrich is going to be overdrafted because he's got center size, some offensive skills, and plays for Kansas. If Aldrich played for Northern Iowa, he'd be a borderline lottery guy. He doesn't have a ton of upside, but he'll at least be solid, say a 10/8 guy with a couple blocks per game. Another worry is he doesn't appear to have a great motor and may have trouble finishing over more athletic centers.
The Pistons center position was a rotation of Ben Wallace and Kwame Brown. Clearly this must be upgraded and Cole Aldrich fits the bill.
Final season stats: 26.8 mpg, 11.3 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.8 spg, 3.5 bpg, 1.6 tpg, 56%/NA/67%
8. Los Angeles Clippers: Donatas Motiejunas PF, Lithuania (7-0, 220)
Donatas Motiejunas doesn't play in the NCAA, he plays for Pallacanestro Treviso, so obviously there's nothing to update about March Madness. He did play in the Under-20 Championship and averaged 11.2 points and 5.4 rebounds. The stat line for Motiejunas in this draft is the 2009 Nike Hoops Summit, where he went against the likes of DeMarcus Cousins, John Henson, and Mason Plumblee while going for 21 points and 8 rebounds.
The Clippers have a lot of players and a not a ton of wholes. They could take a small forward here, but there isn't one the fits in the top ten besides Johnson and Aminu, who won't be available here. Motiejunas gives the Clippers a project to store overseas for a year while they work free agency.
Final season stats: 20.7 mpg, 9.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 0.5 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 2.3 tpg, 53%/32%/72%
9. Utah Jazz (from New York Knicks): Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 250)
Greg Monroe and Georgetown's postseason performance exemplified the problems with the team and their best player. In the Big East Tournament, they were fantastic, reaching the Championship game and barely losing to West Virgina while Monroe averaged 15.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists throughout. He looked like a leader and like he was finally gaining consistency. However, the Hoyas then proceeded to lose to 14 seed Ohio in the first round of the NCAA Tournament by fourteen. Monroe put up good numbers in the game (19 points 14 rebounds, 6 assists), but also had 7 turnovers and didn't do anything until the game was out of reach. It may seem unfair to blame Monroe, but he's the teams best and most effective player.
Greg Monroe is a great fit for Utah's system and gives them some of the frontcourt size and depth they will need to finally get over the hump against the Lakers in the west.
Final season stats: 34.2 mpg, 16.1 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 3.8 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.5 bpg, 3.3 tpg, 52%/26%/66%
10. Indiana Pacers: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-10, 225)
Ed Davis broke his wrist and was out for the season after playing in 24 games. He missed the last 6 games of the regular season/ACC Tournament as well as all of the Tar Heels' NIT run. It's been said that his loss really hurt the Tar Heels, however they were 13-11 (.542) with him and 7-6 (.538) without him, so yeah, he made .005 difference. That said, he's still solidly a lottery pick, and deservedly so.
The Pacers are desperate for some length and athleticism in their front court and there's few longer and more athletic than Ed Davis.
Final season stats: 26.9 mpg, 12.9 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.4 spg, 2.7 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 57%/NA/66%
11. New Orleans Hornets: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-10, 240)
I loved Ekpe Udoh all season, but because he played for Baylor and was off the radar somewhat, he didn't get a ton of love. However, the Bears NCAA Tournament run changed all that. Udoh was very good in the Big 12 Tourney (21.5 ppg, 9.5 rpg) but he was fantastic in the Big Dance, playing efficient offense (13.5 ppg, 3.5 apg as the third option) while dominating on defense (9.5 rpg, 2.2 bpg), altering countless shot, as you could see offenses simply avoiding him. He stepped up in the biggest game of his career, going for 18 points, 10 rebound, 6 assists, and 5 blocks.
Ekpe Udoh can back up both David West and Emeka Okafor in New Orleans while helping upgrade the Hornets defense that ranked 22nd in defensive efficiency and 26th in rebound differential.
Final season stats: 35.1 mpg, 13.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 2.7 apg, 0.8 spg, 3.7 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 49%/27%/68%
12. Memphis Grizzles: Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6, 220)
Xavier Henry started the season with a fantastic for the first 13 games of the season, averaging 15.5 ppg as the third option on his team, then he had a 10 game slump where his average fell to 8.7 ppg, after that he broke out of it leading up to the postseason, going for 16.6 per game. In the post season, he was up and down again, but the most troubling thing about his Tournament performances was in Kansas' second round upset loss to Northern Iowa, Henry didn't show up, scoring only 8 points in 32 minutes, despite having a size and athletic advantage. The question is, was this a one time deal or is he not a big game player? Time will tell. The encouraging thing about the close to Henry's season is that he broke out of his slump but becoming more of a slasher and showing that he was more than just am excellent jump shooter.
The Grizzles are a hard team to place in the draft, I like Henry for this team because he can score without getting a lot of touches, which is important on a crowded Grizzles offense.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 13.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 45%/41%/78%
13. Toronto Raptors: Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11, 225)
Hassan Whiteside's Marshall team lost in the first round of the Conference USA Tournament (to a pretty good Tulsa team) and then lost in the second round of the CIT to Appalachian State (after beating Western Carolina). Hassan Whiteside didn't have a great performance in the CIT and didn't start either game after being late for practice and only played 19 minutes in each game. However, when he played against Tulsa and fellow NBA prospect Jerome Jordan, he was excellent, scoring 14 points, grabbing 10 rebound ans blocking 6 shots. Whiteside isn't the kind of player who people expect to take over games and doesn't play for a team where post season would be much of a factor.
If the Andrew Bynum for Chris Bosh sign and trade happens, I don't see the Raptors taking a shot blocking center. If that doesn't happen though, taking Whiteside would be a good idea because he's a monster defensive player and the Raptors defense was historically terrible last year.
Final season stats: 26.1 mpg, 13.1 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.6 spg, 5.4 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 52%/60%/58%
14. Houston Rockets: Daniel Orton PF/C Kentucky Fr. (6-10, 260)
Daniel Orton's stats may not look like much, but neither did Jrue Holiday's and if you look at his per 40 minute stats it's impressive: (10.3 ppg, 9.9 rpg, 4.2 bpg). Not bad for arguable the 8th option on his team. Because Orton was so far down the food chain, his performance in the postseason isn't a big factor to his stock. However, Orton's 73% field goal percentage is worth noting. I've heard Orton as a top ten pick, but I think he'll go more around the end of the lottery, much like Holiday last year.
I like the Rockets frontcourt is Yao is healthy, but adding big physical player to compliment Yao with the offensive minded Luis Scola, the thinner athletic Jordan Hill and the defensive ace Chuck Hayes.
Final season stats: 13.2 mpg, 3.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.4 bpg, 1.0 tpg, 53%/NA/52%
15. Milwaukee Bucks (from Chicago Bulls): Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-8, 245)
Patrick Patterson gladly assumed the mantle of role player after being the star last year, becoming the third or forth option on a Kentucky team loaded with talent. Patterson shined in small ways: crashing the boards when need be, improving his jump shot, and running the floor relentlessly. In the postseason, he never took more than 12 shots but helped his team in other ways, blocking shots and rebounding. However, in the biggest game of his career, like the rest of the Wildcats, he laid and egg scoring only 8 points on 3-of-7 shooting.
The Bucks were a great story this year, but even while they were battling the Hawks to a 7th game in the playoffs, it was painfully aware they lack athleticism, Patterson will give them that plus a true power forward who will fit in very well with Andrew Bogut.
Final season stats: 33 mpg, 14.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0,7 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.1 tpg, 57%/35%/69% (field goal/three point/free throw)
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Charlotte Bobcats): Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Jr. (6-10, 235)
Winning the CBIT may not seem like much, especially for team like VCU that has had Big Dance success before, but the fact is after losing to a very good Old Dominion team in the CAA Tournament final, VCU kept playing hard and competing and didn't lose another game. Larry Sanders led the way for the Rams as their leading scorer, rebounder, and shot blocker. He did what he was supposed to, dominating lesser competition, even as a still raw prospect. He averaged 14.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.6 blocks in the postseason. Sanders stock has dropped, but I think he'll be a force in one on one workouts and work his way back into the lottery discussion.
Minnesota desperately needs a shot blocking presence to pair with Al Jefferson and Kevin Love and Sanders has the potential to be one of the best in the NBA. If he can add 15-20 pounds I think he can have a Serge Ibaka like impact his rookie year.
Final season stats: 26.9 mpg, 14.4 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.7 spg, 2.6 bpg, 1.7 tpg, 53%/25%/64%
17. Chicago Bulls (from Milwaukee Bucks): James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-6, 195)
James Anderson was fantastic throughout the season for Oklahoma State and though he scored only 11 points in the Cowboys first round Big 12 Tourney game against Oklahoma, the Cowboys won. He scored 27 against a very good Kansas State defense in their second round loss. So in both cases, things showed good for him. The one hitch in Anderson's fantastic season was the Cowboys' open round NCAA Tourney game where he only scored 11 and struggled mightly. It was probably just and off game but teams will be worried about it.
The Bulls really need a quality scoring 2 guard and Anderson is the prototype for the position. He's got great size and can shoot and slash and will be a perfect fit next to Derrick Rose. He also rebounds well and plays hard on defense.
Final season stats: 34.1 mpg, 22.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.6 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 46%/34%/81%
18. Miami Heat: Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1, 190)
I don't know whether to call Eric Bledsoe inconsistent or not. He put up inconsistent stats this year, but he was also the forth or fifth option on his team, so I don't think that's a fair judgment. In the postseason, however, he amped up his game, averaging 15 points in the SEC Tourney and 15.2 in the Big Dance. He didn't perform so well in Kentucky's Elite 8 loss to West Virginia though, going 1-6 from the field and 0-5 from three. With that said, Bledsoe will be drafted more on upside anyways, plus he played out of position a lot at UK, so this might not matter at all.
The Heat need an upgrade over Mario Chalmers and Carlos Arroyo, Eric Bledsoe's scoring ability will take some pressure of Dwyane Wade but he can still balance that with being a pure point guard and setting up teammates.
Final season stats: 30.3 mpg, 11.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.3 bpg, 3.0 tpg, 46%/38%/66%
19. Boston Celtics: Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-8, 225)
Texas was a mess this year, but I can't blame Damion James for it. Despite his team falling apart around him, James kept giving fantastic effort. He also stepped up in the Big 12 Tournament, going for 28 and 16 in the Longhorns first round win and 18 and 12 in their loss to Kansas State in the second round. In the NCAA's, he struggled with foul trouble but still managed 16 and 6. James continued to improve his game over the course of the season, scoring effectively inside while rapidly developing a consistent jump shot (38% from three) and of course, rebounding.
Believe it or not, the Celtics were a terrible rebounding team (25th in rebounding differential) and that's simply not acceptable for a competitive team. James is one of the best rebounders in the draft despite being a small forward and will add some serious grit and boarding off the bench for Boston.
Final season stats: 30.3 mpg, 18 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.7 spg, 1.2 bpg, 2.0 tpg, 50%/38%/67%
20. San Antonio Spurs: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 200)
Butler had a remarkable run last season, winning 18 straight games leading up to the postseason, ripping through their conference Tournament and battling there way to the NCAA Championship game, where they fell an inch short of winning the Championship. Gordan Heyward, as the teams best player, was crucial to that run, stepping up when he was needed and knocking down huge shots. He showed he isn't afraid of the bright lights and is clutch when need be. That's not something that should be undervalued.
Richard Jefferson was a colossal failure for the Spurs this year and they desperately need a replacement at small forward who can knock down open threes, rebound, and play smart. Heyward is great at all these things (despite shooting 29% from three this year, Heyward is a great shooter and shot 44% last year).
Final season stats: 33.5 mpg, 15.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.3 tpg, 46%/26%/83#
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (7-1, 250)
I've come around on Alabi a little bit. I wasn't a huge fan of his a couple months ago, but after watching full Florida State games, I've started to like him a little more. He doesn't get plays run for him, yet still produces, he's a very good defensive player and shot blocker, he's a very good free throw shooter, and most of all he's still very raw but has the athletic upside and motor to be a good player in the NBA. All this showed in the Seminoles two postseason games (both losses), in the NC State game, he went for 13 and 9 with 4 blocked shots, while against Gonzaga and a talented 7 footer in Robert Sacre, he battled him and held him to 3-for-8 from the field.
If Alabi can put on some weight and improve his rebounding, he'll be a perfect fit for the Thunder, who won't need him to do anything but play defense and clean up the boards in his first couple seasons. He's also a quality guy, which the Thunder like, and will have a fellow African native in Serge Ibaka to hang out with.
Final season stats: 25.6 mpg, 11.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.3 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 53%/NA/79%
22. Portland Trail Blazers: Kevin Seraphin PF/C, France (6-10, 260)
Kevin Seraphin will be taken entirely on athletic upside. He's shown flashes in France playing for Cholet, but hasn't gotten the minutes or had the consistency to be a big producer. I like him as a prospect, but questions about his basketball IQ are a worry.
The Trail Blazers have a loaded roster (when healthy) so it makes sense for them to take an overseas project.
Final season stats: 15.2 mpg, 5.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.6 apg, 0.2 spg, 1.0 bpg, 1.1 tpg, 52%/NA/57%
23. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah Jazz): Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia So. (6-9, 205)
Devin Ebanks struggled all year with consistency on offense, mainly because he's yet to develop a jump shot, but he made his presence felt in several ways throughout the regular and post season for West Virginia. He's an excellent rebounder, and stepped up his rebounding for a team lacking any real big men, grabbing 8.1 a game, including almost 3 on the offensive end. His defensive ability is also excellent, he competes on every play and often guards the other teams best player, including point guards, like he did in the NCAA Tournament regional final, effectively shutting down John Wall in the half court with his long arms and athleticism. Finally, his ball handling and passing is also very good, and when the Truck Bryant was lost for the season, Ebanks played point guard while Joe Mazzula was resting. He showed throughout the postseason that he's willing to do the little things that will help his team win.
The Timberwolves need to continue to add young talent, much the way the Thunder did, and with Ebanks they'll get a versatile player who could add 25 pounds and be a Jeff Green-esque 4, or 15 and be a 3 like Rudy Gay. Developing the jump shot will be crucial to his offensive upside, buy he'll certainly upgrade any teams defense, and the Wolves defense was terrible last year.
Final season stats: 34.1 mpg, 12.0 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.7 bpg, 2.2 tpg, 45%/10%/77%
24. Atlanta Hawks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (6-4, 195)
Jordan Crawford really started to figure it out down the stretch of the regular season and in the postseason. He could always score, but he became much more efficient, took better shots, and was much less selfish. He boosted his assist rate, but his calling card is his scoring, and he really stepped it up to lead his team to Sweet 16. He averaged a whopping 29 points per game on 50% shooting from the field and also showed he wasn't afraid of taking the big shots (see the 35 footer in double overtime against Kansas State) and knocked them down. More importantly, he really looked like he fit in with his teammates, developed his chemistry and wasn't just a gunner.
There's a good chance Joe Johnson leaves this summer, and if he does Jamal Crawford will stop into the starting line up and the Hawks will need to replace that punch off the bench. Jordan Crawford (no relation) can step into that sixth man role and be a impact scorer off the bench. Plus the Hawks can have a monopoly on Crawford 2 guards.
Final season stats: 32.8 mpg, 20.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 46%/38%/77%
25. Memphis Grizzles (from Denver Nuggets): Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
I really like Quincy Pondexter, during his four years at Washington, you could see he's clearly a gifted athlete, but he relied on it too much. Until this year when he really got it all together, especially down the stretch, he was fantastic. He also stepped up and took the game winning shot to beat Marquette in the first round. The big question with Pondexter is his shooting ability from range, however, he really improved that from last year (21% to 35% from 3) and has added a nice midrange game, which is the first step. Just look at Dwyane Wade.
Rudy Gay is mostly likely gone and Pondexter will be able to replace his offensive production within a couple of years and will be an upgrade on Gay's defense from day one.
Final season stats: 32.3 mpg, 19.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.6 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 53%/35%/82%
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix Suns): Luke Babbitt SF, Nevada So. (6-9, 220)
Luke Babbitt's Nevada team wasn't great this year, but he did all he could to get them into the NCAA's though the WAC Tournament, scoring 33 points in a one point loss to New Mexico State. Babbitt is a scorer, pure and simple and that's what's going to get him drafted.
The Thunder desperately need some three point shooting, and Babbitt can kill it from deep. They need to add another shooter and scorer off the bench to pair with James Harden in the second unit. Plus his defensive liabilities by the Thunder's strong team defense.
Final season stats: 37.1 mpg, 21.9 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.0 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 50%/41%/91%
27. New Jersey Nets (from Dallas Mavericks): Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 230)
Gani Lawal and Derrick Favors just didn't work together, so both their numbers were both below what they would be if they didn't play together. However, when Favors was on the bench, Lawal did a good job and showed why he should be a first round pick. He didn't step up in the postseason, but had some good games, he's not really that type of player.
The Nets 4 position is a black hole of talent. Lawal will be a good fit next to Brook Lopez because Lopez's size will protect Lawal on defense.
Final season stats: 25.8 mpg, 13.1 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.4 spg, 1.4 bpg, 2.2 tpg, 53%/NA/57%
28. Memphis Grizzles (from Los Angeles Lakers): Avery Bradley SG, Texas Fr. (6-3, 180)
Avery Bradley was up and down this season, but he clearly has talent and is already and excellent defensive player. Sometimes he looks unstoppable, sometimes he disappears, and his postseason performance mirrored that.
The Grizzles have time to let him get more consistency, and even learn the point.
Final season stats: 29.5 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.5 bpg, 1.5 tpg, 43%/37%/54%
29. Orlando Magic: Paul George SG/SF, Fresno State So. (6-7, 185)
Paul George is really gaining steam and could go much higher than this, he's a great athlete and has great range on his jumper. He's also got a high basketball IQ and can create for his teammates.
The Magic need an eventual replacement for Vince Carter at the 2, and scouts think George is better suited to play there than the 3 (George himself agrees). He's a good fit for the Magic because he can shoot, run the floor, attack in the half court and defend.
Final season stats: 33.2 mpg, 16.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 3.0 apg, 2.2 spg, 0.8 bpg, 3.2 tpg, 42%/35%/91%
30. Washington Wizards (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Terrico White SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 210)
Terrico White is another inconsistent yet super talented, athletic player that this draft seems loaded with. If he dials up his effort, as he did in the postseason this year, he one of the best players in the country.
Flip Saunders is great at working with young players and getting the max from them, so I think the Wizards will take a chance on a high upside player here because they're desperate for talent. I like White's fit next to Gilbert Arenas too, as he can handle the ball and take some pressure off him from the 2 guard position. If Andray Blatche becomes consistant, and the Wizards can add a high level free agent, they'll be in a good position going forward.
Final season stats: 31.5 mpg, 15.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.9 apg, 0.2 bpg, 1.3 tpg, 43%/34%/71%
John Wall led the Wildcats to a SEC regular season and tournament championship, but couldn't get them past West Virginia and into the Final Four, despite trying to take the team on his back and playing his heart out. The tournament has proved once and for all that John Wall has everything you'd want in a prospect. He's an unbelievable athlete, a fiercely competitive leader, a character guy, and a great combination as a guy who can step in day one and help his team and massive amounts of untapped potential. He's the clear number one pick no matter who's drafting; look I love Evan Turner, but seriously just watch a couple minutes of him and compare it with a couple minutes of Wall. Turner can be a valuable player, but Wall can be a superstar, if only due to his athletic upside.
The Nets need to add talent and John Wall is the most talented player in the draft, it's as simple as that.
Final season stats: 34.6 mpg, 16.6 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 6.5 apg, 1.8 spg, 0.5 bpg, 4.0 tpg, 46%/32%/75% (field goal/three point/free throw)
2. Minnesota Timberwolves: Evan Turner SG/SF, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 205)
Evan Turner had a very up and down postseason. He had a couple good games and a couple bad ones. He hit game winners (Michigan) and turned down a wide open teammate to take a contested shot which he missed as Ohio State lost to Tennessee. However, overall, considering the amount of things Turner has to for Ohio State for them to have a chance, he did a great job carrying his team further than perhaps there talent warrented. Something he's been doing all year. Turnovers remain an issue in the postseason (same for Wall) at over 6 per game, but since Turner won't have to handle the ball nearly as much in the NBA, so that shouldn't be a big problem.
The Wolves have holes everywhere on their roster, so taking a versatile guy in Turner makes sense. Plus, I love his passing ability in the triangle offense.
Final season stats: 35.8 mpg, 20.4 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 6.0 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.9 bpg, 4.4 tpg, 51%/36%/75%
3. Sacramento Kings: Derrick Favors PF, Georgia Tech Fr. (6-9, 245)
Derrick Favors, despite the ineptitude of Georgia Tech's backcourt, did his very best to put the Yellow Jackets on his back and carry them when he got the chance. He didn't get a ton of shots, but when he did he shot 64% from the field and led Tech to a close loss in the ACC Tournament Final and to a first round win in the NCAA Tournament, despite being an underdog. Favors showed much more aggressivness, looking for his shot when he got the ball, showing a nice midrange game, and anchoring the Tech defense averaging 8.6 rebounds and 2.1 blocks. He showed that when he get the ball, he can convert at high rate and be a monster in the paint.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.o apg, 0.9 spg, 2.1 bpg, 2.5 tpg, 61%/NA/62%
4. Golden State Warriors: DeMarcus Cousins PF/C, Kentucky Fr. (6-11, 270)
DeMarcus Cousins helped his stock with his play this postseason, but also hurt it with his attitude, especially in the Wildcats Elite 8 loss to West Virgina, where his unappealing demeanor will unfortunately be the last thing NBA teams got to see from him. No doubt he's talent, but the headcase factor will cause him to drop below safer players. The numbers however, are impressive: 26 mpg, 13 ppg, 9.1 rpg and shooting a insane 69% from the field over seven postseason games. He did get into a little foul trouble however, but it he played his average amount of minutes. If a team is willing to take a chance on Cousins' issues, he could got three but I think teams picking that high won't want to take that risk.
If Don Nelson is retiring, the Warriors will hopefully look to play a more NBA style offense as apposed to the run and gun. Cousins will help a lot in the half court as well as on the boards, two places the Warriors are weak.
Final season stats: 23.5 mpg, 15.1 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.0 spg, 1.8 bpg, 2.1 tpg, 56%/17%/60%
5. Washington Wizards: Wesley Johnson SG/SF, Syracuse Jr. (6-7, 200)
Syracuse's season ended in disappointment, but don't blame Wes Johnson. Finally healed from a hand injury that hurt his shooting percentage, Johnson ripped it up in the postseason (shooting 60% from the field, 61% from 3) and reminded everyone why he's first team All-America and the Big East POY. Anyone who tuned into see Johnson during his injury-induced slump might wonder what the big deal was. Johnson is a rare prospect that can average 16 points, 8 rebounds, 50 percent from field, 40 percent from 3, and almost 2 blocks and steals a game that can also play 3 positions (PF, SF, SG)..
The Wizards need to add premier talent and quality guys. Wes Johnson is both and a potential centerpiece star for the rebuilding project they've started there.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.o apg, 0.9 spg, 2.1 bpg, 2.5 tpg, 61%/NA/62%
6. Philadelphia 76ers: Al-Farouq Aminu SF, Wake Forest So. (6-8, 205)
For anyone who wants to know the value of Al-Farouq Aminu to his team, just watch Wake Forest's two NCAA Tournament games. Aminu was dominant in the Demon Deacons win over Texas (20 points, 15 boards) and when he was forced to leave the Deacons game against Kentucky due to fouls, the Wildcats blew them out of the water. He was clearly missed at both ends of the floor. Aminu has been up and down this year, as he's still trying to put it all together. He's clearly incredibly physically talented and is starting to show that he's got a good feel for the game, but it's really all about potential with him. Pair that with a great motor and you've got a top ten pick.
The only true small forward on the Sixers roster is Jason Kapono. That's not good. Aminu fills that role and gives Philly another potential star to pair with Jrue Holiday for years to come.
Final season stats: 31.3 mpg, 15.8 ppg, 10.7 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg. 3.2 tpg, 45%/27%/70%
7. Detroit Pistons: Cole Aldrich C, Kansas Jr. (6-11, 245)
As he's been all season, Cole Aldrich was good, not great in the postseason. He's not a guy who'll take over a game, he doesn't have star potential. The guy he's compared to is Joel Przybilla, who is a great backup center, but do you really want a guy like him in the top ten picks? Aldrich is going to be overdrafted because he's got center size, some offensive skills, and plays for Kansas. If Aldrich played for Northern Iowa, he'd be a borderline lottery guy. He doesn't have a ton of upside, but he'll at least be solid, say a 10/8 guy with a couple blocks per game. Another worry is he doesn't appear to have a great motor and may have trouble finishing over more athletic centers.
The Pistons center position was a rotation of Ben Wallace and Kwame Brown. Clearly this must be upgraded and Cole Aldrich fits the bill.
Final season stats: 26.8 mpg, 11.3 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.8 spg, 3.5 bpg, 1.6 tpg, 56%/NA/67%
8. Los Angeles Clippers: Donatas Motiejunas PF, Lithuania (7-0, 220)
Donatas Motiejunas doesn't play in the NCAA, he plays for Pallacanestro Treviso, so obviously there's nothing to update about March Madness. He did play in the Under-20 Championship and averaged 11.2 points and 5.4 rebounds. The stat line for Motiejunas in this draft is the 2009 Nike Hoops Summit, where he went against the likes of DeMarcus Cousins, John Henson, and Mason Plumblee while going for 21 points and 8 rebounds.
The Clippers have a lot of players and a not a ton of wholes. They could take a small forward here, but there isn't one the fits in the top ten besides Johnson and Aminu, who won't be available here. Motiejunas gives the Clippers a project to store overseas for a year while they work free agency.
Final season stats: 20.7 mpg, 9.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 0.5 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 2.3 tpg, 53%/32%/72%
9. Utah Jazz (from New York Knicks): Greg Monroe PF/C, Georgetown So. (6-11, 250)
Greg Monroe and Georgetown's postseason performance exemplified the problems with the team and their best player. In the Big East Tournament, they were fantastic, reaching the Championship game and barely losing to West Virgina while Monroe averaged 15.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists throughout. He looked like a leader and like he was finally gaining consistency. However, the Hoyas then proceeded to lose to 14 seed Ohio in the first round of the NCAA Tournament by fourteen. Monroe put up good numbers in the game (19 points 14 rebounds, 6 assists), but also had 7 turnovers and didn't do anything until the game was out of reach. It may seem unfair to blame Monroe, but he's the teams best and most effective player.
Greg Monroe is a great fit for Utah's system and gives them some of the frontcourt size and depth they will need to finally get over the hump against the Lakers in the west.
Final season stats: 34.2 mpg, 16.1 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 3.8 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.5 bpg, 3.3 tpg, 52%/26%/66%
10. Indiana Pacers: Ed Davis PF, North Carolina So. (6-10, 225)
Ed Davis broke his wrist and was out for the season after playing in 24 games. He missed the last 6 games of the regular season/ACC Tournament as well as all of the Tar Heels' NIT run. It's been said that his loss really hurt the Tar Heels, however they were 13-11 (.542) with him and 7-6 (.538) without him, so yeah, he made .005 difference. That said, he's still solidly a lottery pick, and deservedly so.
The Pacers are desperate for some length and athleticism in their front court and there's few longer and more athletic than Ed Davis.
Final season stats: 26.9 mpg, 12.9 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.4 spg, 2.7 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 57%/NA/66%
11. New Orleans Hornets: Ekpe Udoh PF, Baylor Jr. (6-10, 240)
I loved Ekpe Udoh all season, but because he played for Baylor and was off the radar somewhat, he didn't get a ton of love. However, the Bears NCAA Tournament run changed all that. Udoh was very good in the Big 12 Tourney (21.5 ppg, 9.5 rpg) but he was fantastic in the Big Dance, playing efficient offense (13.5 ppg, 3.5 apg as the third option) while dominating on defense (9.5 rpg, 2.2 bpg), altering countless shot, as you could see offenses simply avoiding him. He stepped up in the biggest game of his career, going for 18 points, 10 rebound, 6 assists, and 5 blocks.
Ekpe Udoh can back up both David West and Emeka Okafor in New Orleans while helping upgrade the Hornets defense that ranked 22nd in defensive efficiency and 26th in rebound differential.
Final season stats: 35.1 mpg, 13.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 2.7 apg, 0.8 spg, 3.7 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 49%/27%/68%
12. Memphis Grizzles: Xavier Henry SG, Kansas Fr. (6-6, 220)
Xavier Henry started the season with a fantastic for the first 13 games of the season, averaging 15.5 ppg as the third option on his team, then he had a 10 game slump where his average fell to 8.7 ppg, after that he broke out of it leading up to the postseason, going for 16.6 per game. In the post season, he was up and down again, but the most troubling thing about his Tournament performances was in Kansas' second round upset loss to Northern Iowa, Henry didn't show up, scoring only 8 points in 32 minutes, despite having a size and athletic advantage. The question is, was this a one time deal or is he not a big game player? Time will tell. The encouraging thing about the close to Henry's season is that he broke out of his slump but becoming more of a slasher and showing that he was more than just am excellent jump shooter.
The Grizzles are a hard team to place in the draft, I like Henry for this team because he can score without getting a lot of touches, which is important on a crowded Grizzles offense.
Final season stats: 27.5 mpg, 13.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.5 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 45%/41%/78%
13. Toronto Raptors: Hassan Whiteside C, Marshall Fr. (6-11, 225)
Hassan Whiteside's Marshall team lost in the first round of the Conference USA Tournament (to a pretty good Tulsa team) and then lost in the second round of the CIT to Appalachian State (after beating Western Carolina). Hassan Whiteside didn't have a great performance in the CIT and didn't start either game after being late for practice and only played 19 minutes in each game. However, when he played against Tulsa and fellow NBA prospect Jerome Jordan, he was excellent, scoring 14 points, grabbing 10 rebound ans blocking 6 shots. Whiteside isn't the kind of player who people expect to take over games and doesn't play for a team where post season would be much of a factor.
If the Andrew Bynum for Chris Bosh sign and trade happens, I don't see the Raptors taking a shot blocking center. If that doesn't happen though, taking Whiteside would be a good idea because he's a monster defensive player and the Raptors defense was historically terrible last year.
Final season stats: 26.1 mpg, 13.1 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.6 spg, 5.4 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 52%/60%/58%
14. Houston Rockets: Daniel Orton PF/C Kentucky Fr. (6-10, 260)
Daniel Orton's stats may not look like much, but neither did Jrue Holiday's and if you look at his per 40 minute stats it's impressive: (10.3 ppg, 9.9 rpg, 4.2 bpg). Not bad for arguable the 8th option on his team. Because Orton was so far down the food chain, his performance in the postseason isn't a big factor to his stock. However, Orton's 73% field goal percentage is worth noting. I've heard Orton as a top ten pick, but I think he'll go more around the end of the lottery, much like Holiday last year.
I like the Rockets frontcourt is Yao is healthy, but adding big physical player to compliment Yao with the offensive minded Luis Scola, the thinner athletic Jordan Hill and the defensive ace Chuck Hayes.
Final season stats: 13.2 mpg, 3.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.4 bpg, 1.0 tpg, 53%/NA/52%
15. Milwaukee Bucks (from Chicago Bulls): Patrick Patterson PF, Kentucky Jr. (6-8, 245)
Patrick Patterson gladly assumed the mantle of role player after being the star last year, becoming the third or forth option on a Kentucky team loaded with talent. Patterson shined in small ways: crashing the boards when need be, improving his jump shot, and running the floor relentlessly. In the postseason, he never took more than 12 shots but helped his team in other ways, blocking shots and rebounding. However, in the biggest game of his career, like the rest of the Wildcats, he laid and egg scoring only 8 points on 3-of-7 shooting.
The Bucks were a great story this year, but even while they were battling the Hawks to a 7th game in the playoffs, it was painfully aware they lack athleticism, Patterson will give them that plus a true power forward who will fit in very well with Andrew Bogut.
Final season stats: 33 mpg, 14.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0,7 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.1 tpg, 57%/35%/69% (field goal/three point/free throw)
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Charlotte Bobcats): Larry Sanders PF/C, VCU Jr. (6-10, 235)
Winning the CBIT may not seem like much, especially for team like VCU that has had Big Dance success before, but the fact is after losing to a very good Old Dominion team in the CAA Tournament final, VCU kept playing hard and competing and didn't lose another game. Larry Sanders led the way for the Rams as their leading scorer, rebounder, and shot blocker. He did what he was supposed to, dominating lesser competition, even as a still raw prospect. He averaged 14.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.6 blocks in the postseason. Sanders stock has dropped, but I think he'll be a force in one on one workouts and work his way back into the lottery discussion.
Minnesota desperately needs a shot blocking presence to pair with Al Jefferson and Kevin Love and Sanders has the potential to be one of the best in the NBA. If he can add 15-20 pounds I think he can have a Serge Ibaka like impact his rookie year.
Final season stats: 26.9 mpg, 14.4 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.7 spg, 2.6 bpg, 1.7 tpg, 53%/25%/64%
17. Chicago Bulls (from Milwaukee Bucks): James Anderson SG, Oklahoma State Jr. (6-6, 195)
James Anderson was fantastic throughout the season for Oklahoma State and though he scored only 11 points in the Cowboys first round Big 12 Tourney game against Oklahoma, the Cowboys won. He scored 27 against a very good Kansas State defense in their second round loss. So in both cases, things showed good for him. The one hitch in Anderson's fantastic season was the Cowboys' open round NCAA Tourney game where he only scored 11 and struggled mightly. It was probably just and off game but teams will be worried about it.
The Bulls really need a quality scoring 2 guard and Anderson is the prototype for the position. He's got great size and can shoot and slash and will be a perfect fit next to Derrick Rose. He also rebounds well and plays hard on defense.
Final season stats: 34.1 mpg, 22.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.6 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 46%/34%/81%
18. Miami Heat: Eric Bledsoe PG, Kentucky Fr. (6-1, 190)
I don't know whether to call Eric Bledsoe inconsistent or not. He put up inconsistent stats this year, but he was also the forth or fifth option on his team, so I don't think that's a fair judgment. In the postseason, however, he amped up his game, averaging 15 points in the SEC Tourney and 15.2 in the Big Dance. He didn't perform so well in Kentucky's Elite 8 loss to West Virginia though, going 1-6 from the field and 0-5 from three. With that said, Bledsoe will be drafted more on upside anyways, plus he played out of position a lot at UK, so this might not matter at all.
The Heat need an upgrade over Mario Chalmers and Carlos Arroyo, Eric Bledsoe's scoring ability will take some pressure of Dwyane Wade but he can still balance that with being a pure point guard and setting up teammates.
Final season stats: 30.3 mpg, 11.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.3 bpg, 3.0 tpg, 46%/38%/66%
19. Boston Celtics: Damion James SF, Texas Sr. (6-8, 225)
Texas was a mess this year, but I can't blame Damion James for it. Despite his team falling apart around him, James kept giving fantastic effort. He also stepped up in the Big 12 Tournament, going for 28 and 16 in the Longhorns first round win and 18 and 12 in their loss to Kansas State in the second round. In the NCAA's, he struggled with foul trouble but still managed 16 and 6. James continued to improve his game over the course of the season, scoring effectively inside while rapidly developing a consistent jump shot (38% from three) and of course, rebounding.
Believe it or not, the Celtics were a terrible rebounding team (25th in rebounding differential) and that's simply not acceptable for a competitive team. James is one of the best rebounders in the draft despite being a small forward and will add some serious grit and boarding off the bench for Boston.
Final season stats: 30.3 mpg, 18 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.7 spg, 1.2 bpg, 2.0 tpg, 50%/38%/67%
20. San Antonio Spurs: Gordon Heyward SF, Butler So. (6-8, 200)
Butler had a remarkable run last season, winning 18 straight games leading up to the postseason, ripping through their conference Tournament and battling there way to the NCAA Championship game, where they fell an inch short of winning the Championship. Gordan Heyward, as the teams best player, was crucial to that run, stepping up when he was needed and knocking down huge shots. He showed he isn't afraid of the bright lights and is clutch when need be. That's not something that should be undervalued.
Richard Jefferson was a colossal failure for the Spurs this year and they desperately need a replacement at small forward who can knock down open threes, rebound, and play smart. Heyward is great at all these things (despite shooting 29% from three this year, Heyward is a great shooter and shot 44% last year).
Final season stats: 33.5 mpg, 15.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.3 tpg, 46%/26%/83#
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Solomon Alabi C, Florida State (7-1, 250)
I've come around on Alabi a little bit. I wasn't a huge fan of his a couple months ago, but after watching full Florida State games, I've started to like him a little more. He doesn't get plays run for him, yet still produces, he's a very good defensive player and shot blocker, he's a very good free throw shooter, and most of all he's still very raw but has the athletic upside and motor to be a good player in the NBA. All this showed in the Seminoles two postseason games (both losses), in the NC State game, he went for 13 and 9 with 4 blocked shots, while against Gonzaga and a talented 7 footer in Robert Sacre, he battled him and held him to 3-for-8 from the field.
If Alabi can put on some weight and improve his rebounding, he'll be a perfect fit for the Thunder, who won't need him to do anything but play defense and clean up the boards in his first couple seasons. He's also a quality guy, which the Thunder like, and will have a fellow African native in Serge Ibaka to hang out with.
Final season stats: 25.6 mpg, 11.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.3 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 53%/NA/79%
22. Portland Trail Blazers: Kevin Seraphin PF/C, France (6-10, 260)
Kevin Seraphin will be taken entirely on athletic upside. He's shown flashes in France playing for Cholet, but hasn't gotten the minutes or had the consistency to be a big producer. I like him as a prospect, but questions about his basketball IQ are a worry.
The Trail Blazers have a loaded roster (when healthy) so it makes sense for them to take an overseas project.
Final season stats: 15.2 mpg, 5.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.6 apg, 0.2 spg, 1.0 bpg, 1.1 tpg, 52%/NA/57%
23. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah Jazz): Devin Ebanks SF, West Virginia So. (6-9, 205)
Devin Ebanks struggled all year with consistency on offense, mainly because he's yet to develop a jump shot, but he made his presence felt in several ways throughout the regular and post season for West Virginia. He's an excellent rebounder, and stepped up his rebounding for a team lacking any real big men, grabbing 8.1 a game, including almost 3 on the offensive end. His defensive ability is also excellent, he competes on every play and often guards the other teams best player, including point guards, like he did in the NCAA Tournament regional final, effectively shutting down John Wall in the half court with his long arms and athleticism. Finally, his ball handling and passing is also very good, and when the Truck Bryant was lost for the season, Ebanks played point guard while Joe Mazzula was resting. He showed throughout the postseason that he's willing to do the little things that will help his team win.
The Timberwolves need to continue to add young talent, much the way the Thunder did, and with Ebanks they'll get a versatile player who could add 25 pounds and be a Jeff Green-esque 4, or 15 and be a 3 like Rudy Gay. Developing the jump shot will be crucial to his offensive upside, buy he'll certainly upgrade any teams defense, and the Wolves defense was terrible last year.
Final season stats: 34.1 mpg, 12.0 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.7 bpg, 2.2 tpg, 45%/10%/77%
24. Atlanta Hawks: Jordan Crawford SG, Xavier (6-4, 195)
Jordan Crawford really started to figure it out down the stretch of the regular season and in the postseason. He could always score, but he became much more efficient, took better shots, and was much less selfish. He boosted his assist rate, but his calling card is his scoring, and he really stepped it up to lead his team to Sweet 16. He averaged a whopping 29 points per game on 50% shooting from the field and also showed he wasn't afraid of taking the big shots (see the 35 footer in double overtime against Kansas State) and knocked them down. More importantly, he really looked like he fit in with his teammates, developed his chemistry and wasn't just a gunner.
There's a good chance Joe Johnson leaves this summer, and if he does Jamal Crawford will stop into the starting line up and the Hawks will need to replace that punch off the bench. Jordan Crawford (no relation) can step into that sixth man role and be a impact scorer off the bench. Plus the Hawks can have a monopoly on Crawford 2 guards.
Final season stats: 32.8 mpg, 20.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 46%/38%/77%
25. Memphis Grizzles (from Denver Nuggets): Quincy Pondexter SF, Washington Sr. (6-7, 220)
I really like Quincy Pondexter, during his four years at Washington, you could see he's clearly a gifted athlete, but he relied on it too much. Until this year when he really got it all together, especially down the stretch, he was fantastic. He also stepped up and took the game winning shot to beat Marquette in the first round. The big question with Pondexter is his shooting ability from range, however, he really improved that from last year (21% to 35% from 3) and has added a nice midrange game, which is the first step. Just look at Dwyane Wade.
Rudy Gay is mostly likely gone and Pondexter will be able to replace his offensive production within a couple of years and will be an upgrade on Gay's defense from day one.
Final season stats: 32.3 mpg, 19.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.6 bpg, 1.9 tpg, 53%/35%/82%
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix Suns): Luke Babbitt SF, Nevada So. (6-9, 220)
Luke Babbitt's Nevada team wasn't great this year, but he did all he could to get them into the NCAA's though the WAC Tournament, scoring 33 points in a one point loss to New Mexico State. Babbitt is a scorer, pure and simple and that's what's going to get him drafted.
The Thunder desperately need some three point shooting, and Babbitt can kill it from deep. They need to add another shooter and scorer off the bench to pair with James Harden in the second unit. Plus his defensive liabilities by the Thunder's strong team defense.
Final season stats: 37.1 mpg, 21.9 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.0 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.4 tpg, 50%/41%/91%
27. New Jersey Nets (from Dallas Mavericks): Gani Lawal PF, Georgia Tech Jr. (6-9, 230)
Gani Lawal and Derrick Favors just didn't work together, so both their numbers were both below what they would be if they didn't play together. However, when Favors was on the bench, Lawal did a good job and showed why he should be a first round pick. He didn't step up in the postseason, but had some good games, he's not really that type of player.
The Nets 4 position is a black hole of talent. Lawal will be a good fit next to Brook Lopez because Lopez's size will protect Lawal on defense.
Final season stats: 25.8 mpg, 13.1 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.4 spg, 1.4 bpg, 2.2 tpg, 53%/NA/57%
28. Memphis Grizzles (from Los Angeles Lakers): Avery Bradley SG, Texas Fr. (6-3, 180)
Avery Bradley was up and down this season, but he clearly has talent and is already and excellent defensive player. Sometimes he looks unstoppable, sometimes he disappears, and his postseason performance mirrored that.
The Grizzles have time to let him get more consistency, and even learn the point.
Final season stats: 29.5 mpg, 11.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.5 bpg, 1.5 tpg, 43%/37%/54%
29. Orlando Magic: Paul George SG/SF, Fresno State So. (6-7, 185)
Paul George is really gaining steam and could go much higher than this, he's a great athlete and has great range on his jumper. He's also got a high basketball IQ and can create for his teammates.
The Magic need an eventual replacement for Vince Carter at the 2, and scouts think George is better suited to play there than the 3 (George himself agrees). He's a good fit for the Magic because he can shoot, run the floor, attack in the half court and defend.
Final season stats: 33.2 mpg, 16.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 3.0 apg, 2.2 spg, 0.8 bpg, 3.2 tpg, 42%/35%/91%
30. Washington Wizards (from Cleveland Cavaliers): Terrico White SG, Mississippi So. (6-5, 210)
Terrico White is another inconsistent yet super talented, athletic player that this draft seems loaded with. If he dials up his effort, as he did in the postseason this year, he one of the best players in the country.
Flip Saunders is great at working with young players and getting the max from them, so I think the Wizards will take a chance on a high upside player here because they're desperate for talent. I like White's fit next to Gilbert Arenas too, as he can handle the ball and take some pressure off him from the 2 guard position. If Andray Blatche becomes consistant, and the Wizards can add a high level free agent, they'll be in a good position going forward.
Final season stats: 31.5 mpg, 15.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.9 apg, 0.2 bpg, 1.3 tpg, 43%/34%/71%
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