2015 Draft Review: Sacramento Kings

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Darren Collison/Ray McCallum/David Stockton

SG: Ben McLemore/Nik Stauskas

SF: Rudy Gay

PF: Willie Cauley-Stein/Carl Landry/Eric Moreland

C: DeMarcus Cousins/Jason Thompson

2015 Free Agents

F Derrick Williams (RFA)

F Omri Casspi

PF Reggie Evans

C Ryan Hollins

PG Andre Miller

What They Did On Draft Night
Drafted Kentucky center Willie Cauley-Stein 6th overall

Willie Cauley-Stein was long rumored to be a favorite both of Sacramento's various front offices and star center DeMarcus Cousins, so it was no surprise that is the direction they decided to go in. In theory it makes sense, the Kings' defense was one of the worst in the league last season, and Cauley-Stein was considered the best overall defensive prospect in the draft, a natural fit. In practice, however, it may not go so smoothly. On offense, it could really damage Sacramento's already poor spacing. Unless he takes a drastic step forward, Cauley-Stein is not a threat anywhere outside the basket area so there won't be any reason for teams to not double-off him to Cousins in the post, which will hurt his efficiency there. While it might seem logical to use Cousins further away from the basket, he shot just 38% outside the paint. So taking an already not terrifically efficient player and putting him in a position to be less efficient isn't exactly the best strategy for a not-great offensive team. Furthermore, Cousins is such a great offensive rebounder, moving him further from the basket hurts that as well. Sacramento might be able get by if they had great shooters on the floor elsewhere, but consider Sacramento's presumptive starting wings, Ben McLemore and Rudy Gay. Despite a reputation as a shooter, McLemore was really only effective from the corners, making 41% of his shots there while above the break hitting only 33%. Gay on the other hand shot 41% from the wings (above the break, but not straight on) but just 29% elsewhere. So the Kings can space the floor, but only from specific areas, something smart defenses can exploit by moving them off those spots. Even more of an issue is that three-pointers made up just 20% of Gay's offense, meaning 80% came inside the arc, which means Sacramento will be starting three mostly inside-the-arc players, it will be getting pretty crowded in there. Asking Gay to shoot more from the outside also risks a regression to the inefficiency that have plagued his career in previous seasons. Now trades, particularly of Gay could change this a little bit, but the fact remains Cauley-Stein will be easy to double off of no matter who else is on the floor, he is a pick-and-roll center, not a power forward to play next to a low post big. Even defensively Cauley-Stein's talents won't be maximized playing next to Cousins. Because you don't want Cousins defending on the perimeter and against pick-and-roll, you'll need to have him guard the opposing center and remain as close to the rim as possible, where he is very good getting in front and challenging shots. This puts Cauley-Stein on the power forward, where he should be excellent except it will be very easy for a team with a jump-shooting power forward to simply set him up in the corner on one side of the floor while running a pick-and-roll on the other side, negating Cauley-Stein's ability to switch and block shots. True he could leave his man to help cover the rim, but that would leave a wide-open three in the corner. And because he isn't much of a threat as a post-up player, teams can play small forward at the four with little chance of Cauley-Stein making them pay for going small. Carley-Stein needs to play center defensively, place him in the middle of the floor and use his ability to cover so much ground to blow-up pick-and-rolls, cut of penetration, and protect the rim. I think Cauley-Stein should still help their defense, but he can hurt their offense and won't be maximized to the fullest potential. George Karl is smarter than me, so maybe he can make it work. Playing fast will certainly help.

What To Do Next?

Trades trades trades! I'm not sure they have much they can really do in free agency, but rumors that they want Rajon Rondo would be horrifying and ruin even more spacing. A trade for Ty Lawson makes more sense and would definitely help them get better. Even more helpful would be moving Rudy Gay and acquiring a better shooter at small forward, former Karl player Danilo Gallinari perhaps? I am sure they'd like to make a run at Wes Matthews or Danny Green, but I can't see it happening unless they way overpay.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Gay and Nik Stauskas to Denver for Lawson and Gallinari

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2015 Draft Review: Orlando Magic

2015-16 Depth Chart
PG: Elfrid Payton/Tyler Harvey
SG: Victor Oladipo/Evan Fournier/Ben Gordon
SF: Mario Hezonja/Maurice Harkless/Devyn Marble
PF: Aaron Gordon/Channing Frye/Andrew Nicholson
C: Nikola Vucevic/Dewayne Dedmon

2015 Free Agents
F Tobias Harris (RFA)
C Kyle O'Quinn (RFA)
SG Willie Green

What The Did On Draft Night
Drafted Croatian wing Mario Hezonja 5th overall
There isn't a more perfect fit of team need and skillset that Mario Hezonja and the Magic. The Magic have a bunch of athletes that defend very hard but cannot really shoot, while shoot is what Hezonja does best. I actually like that Hezonja will be coached by Scott Skiles, who definitely has his flaws but he should be able to get the most out of Hezonja on the defensive end. When Hezonja is locked-in and trying on defense, he can be really really good at it; Skiles will require him to play defense to get on the floor. How Skiles deals with Hezonja's shot selection is another matter, but they are both such intense guys hopefully they'll respect each other. Both Elfrid Payton and Victor Oladipo are excellent creating off the dribble, so the hope is as they draw attention, Hezonja can work open behind the arc. If the defense over-commits towards him, Hezonja is more than capable of taking the ball to the basket off the dribble.

Drafted Eastern Washington combo guard Tyler Harvey 51st overall
Harvey is very similar to current Magic guard Ben Gordon in that he can shoot, and shoot really well, but nothing else. Both are undersized to play shooting guard but lack the creation skills to play point guard. Because he is such a good shooter, Harvey can stick on the roster as a shooting specialist that comes in and spaces the floor. In favorable match-ups, I could see Harvey defending point guards while Oladipo or Payton take the shooting guards as well as primary creation duties. This will work against some point guards, but it is questionable if you'd want Harvey defending Derrick Rose or Kyrie Irving. Last season Orlando was so putrid shooting the three that Harvey, if he makes the roster, could have a bigger impact than the average last second round pick.

What to do next?
Unless Orlando is really looking to shake up their roster via trade, they should have a relatively quite offseason. Their one big decision is whether or not to re-sign restricted free agent Tobias Harris. Harris could really help Orlando's scoring starved offense and would compliment Aaron Gordon's defense well off the bench, but Harris and Skiles clashed when both were in Memphis so it is unclear if either is interested in re-uniting. Another factor is that Harris might be offered big money that the Magic are unwilling to match. Beyond that, Orlando's big need is a backup point guard, preferably one that can shoot. Aaron Brooks would be an interesting option who could run a devastating pick-and-pop with Channing Frye.

A bonus trade sure not to happen
Channing Frye to Washington for Nene

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2015 Draft Review: New York Knicks

2015-16 Rotation

PG: Jose Calderon/Jerian Grant

SG: Langston Galloway

SF: Cleanthony Early

PF: Carmelo Anthony/Kristaps Porzingis

C: ???

2015 Free Agents

PF Quincy Acy (RFA)

G Alexey Shved (RFA)

PF Travis Wear (RFA)

C Cole Aldrich

PF Lou Amundson

C Andrea Bargnani

PG Shane Larkin

PF Jason Smith

F Lance Thomas

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Latvian power forward Kristaps Porzingis 3rd overall

Though I didn't think he was the forth best player in the draft, as a prospect, Porzingis is the real deal and should be good, but I am not sure New York is a great fit for him. Not because as soon as he misses a shot, their fans will be all over him, but because his position of power forward is one that should be filled by Carmelo Anthony. Anthony's defense is much more bearable at power forward, and his offense is absolutely devastating at that position. This makes even less sense when you factor Porzingis is somewhat of a project that won't be ready to play starters minutes for another year or two; during that time Carmelo will also be getting older (shocking I know) and he'll become even more of a defensive liability on the perimeter. Now if they trade Anthony and commit to a true rebuilding, giving Porzingis the minutes he needs to develop that is another matter. However I can't see the Knicks doing that, instead they'll likely go for the quick fix and Porzingis' development will stall. I can't fault New York for taking a player that has a chance to be very good, but it may cause some issues down the line when all of their players are ready to go full-out and fit together weirdly. I also worry they won't be patient with his development.

Traded Tim Hardaway Jr. to Atlanta for the 19th overall pick, drafted Notre Dame point guard Jerian Grant

As questionable as the first pick is, their second move looks brilliant. Tim Hardaway Jr. might not be an NBA player, but the Knicks got a first round pick for him. Better that that, they selected an excellent prospect at good value. Jerian Grant has starting potential for New York and has the size they want in the triangle. In a more traditional offense, Grant excels in pick-and-roll but is equally effective off the ball because of how well he moves off the ball. Defensively, he has potential to defend both guard spots at an above-average level. On a good team, Grant is probably the first guard off of the bench, but the Knicks are not a good team so he should probably start and be given every opportunity until a definitively better player comes along to move him to the bench.

Traded two future second rounders for Spanish center Guillermo Hernangomez, drafted 35th overall by Philadelphia

The Knicks basically owe Philadelphia every one of their second round picks from now until the earth collapses into a black hole (an apt metaphor for the Knicks), but they got a solid young prospect in this trade. Hernangomez is likely a stash for a year or two, but he fits well in the triangle because he can face up while having good feel passing and the handling the ball. Defensively he isn't a shot blocker, but is relatively mobile and could become a good below the rim defender. Hernangomez played on the same team as Porzingis in Spain, so they two have some chemistry. I doubt he becomes a starter, but for 10-15 minutes a night Hernangomez could be a decent backup center in the triangle.

What To Do Next?

What the Knicks shouldn't do is go for 30+ year-old free agents in an attempt to win now, unless they are on short term one, maybe two year deals. Instead they should focus on the years in the future when Porzingis will presumably become the star to lead their team. Center Robin Lopez still has a number of prime years left and could be the defensive anchor that the Knicks so desperately need while not costing them too much money. A less expensive center option would be restricted free agent Bismack Biyombo, who while certainly a flawed player can protect the rim and wouldn't cost much. They should also make a run at DeMarre Carroll, Danny Green, Wes Matthews and even Jimmy Butler, but without going overboard financially to get one. Forward Al-Farouq Aminu is a different type of player than those others, but he would compliment Carmelo very well. Trading Carmelo should definitely be on the table, especially if they can get back draft picks or a good young player.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Carmelo Anthony to Dallas for Chandler Parsons, Justin Anderson, Dwight Powell, and Devin Harris

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2015 Draft Review: Philadelphia 76ers

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Isaiah Canaan/Tony Wroten

SG: Hollis Thompson/JaKarr Sampson/J.P. Tokoto

SF: Robert Covington/Jerami Grant

PF: Nerlens Noel/Richaun Holmes/Furkan Aldemir

C: Joel Embiid/Jahlil Okafor

2015 Free Agents

SF Glenn Robinson III (RFA)

C Henry Sims (RFA)

F Luc Richard Mbah a Moute

SG Jason Richardson

PF Thomas Robinson

PG Ish Smith

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Duke center Jahlil Okafor 3rd overall

Philadelphia stuck with their process and will probably reap the rewards of it. Even if Okafor doesn't ever play for Philadelphia, they are going to get a lot of value out of him one way or another. Let's say Joel Embiid is hypothetically trade, Okafor fits really well next to Nerlens Noel on the defensive end of the court at least. Noel is very mobile and disruptive defensively and will help to cover up Okafor's defensive shortcomings until he improves on that end. Offensively it is a little more questionable, at least until one of the pair improves their range offensively. If those are the two Philly rolls with, it will be up to them to find shooters are the other three positions in order to compensate. Still, it seems like that Okafor or Noel will be traded, unless Embiid's foot injury is really that bad. Trading Noel is intesesting, who has less years remaining on his contract than the other two but would likely return quite a haul because he has DPOY-like potential. Embiid and Okafor actually would fit pretty well together, it might be a little awkward at first, or at least until the correct pieces are surrounding them. Embiid has shown a mid-range game and has the agility to defend most power forwards. If that jump-shot becomes a reliable weapon, they could work a high-low, twin-towers offense with three other shooters on the floor to maximize space. This could be particularly effective because both Embiid and Okafor are very good passers. Whenever it happens, Philadelphia will likely be trading one of these three, all of which could fit together in a pair, with the correct system and teammates.

Drafted Bowling Green power forward Richaun Holmes 37th overall

At this point in their rebuild, Philadelphia is more about acquiring assets and good young players, not worrying about fit or roster construction right now. Therefore, drafting another big man (and even more later) is purely a matter of drafting the best available prospect. That said, Holmes actually fits decently with their other big men, because he can defend while also having a pretty effective face-up game. With Okafor, he can play out of the paint enough to provide space while also helping cover up some of the current deficiencies in Okafor's defense. Similarly, a Holmes/Noel, Holmes/Embiid frontline could be very hard to score against. 

Drafted Lithuanian center Arturas Gudaitis 47th overall

Gudaitis is most likely just a trade asset to be stashed in Europe, but he can be an NBA player, which is more than you can say for many second round stash prospects. Gudaitis is a classic high energy backup big man that runs the floor, rebounds, and defends. He is a good athlete for his size and has potential to defend the pick-and-roll well. Offensively he is limited to finishing close to the basket, but is good at it. As a second rounder, Gudaitis will be inexpensive if he comes over in the next three years, making him valuable in a trade and a financially reasonable third center if Philadelphia keeps his rights.

Drafted North Carolina wing J.P. Tokoto 58th overall

Tokoto is a match made in NBA system heaven, fitting exactly what Philadelphia targets in wing players: length, athletic ability, defensive potential and a broken jumpshot. Okay, maybe they don't target that last part, but the fact remains they look to take advantage of an inefficiency by selecting players that are a jumper away from being above-average NBA players. This is smart because if it takes five second round picks, yet works out one of those times, they get a valuable NBA player at a low cost while not really increasing the flame out ratio of second rounders. The fact is, most second rounders don't make it, but by acquiring many of them without giving up much of value, it increases the chances you find a prospect or two that does become a rotation player, giving you an inexpensive contributor. Tokoto provides value in areas other than defense and shooting as well, he played point guard some in college and has very good vision and passing ability.

Drafted Serbian power forward Luka Mitrovic 60th overall

Another likely stash prospect, Luka Mitrovic will probably never see the NBA. He is actually decently skilled, but simply lacks the size to play power forward and the athletic ability to move to the wing.

What To Do Next?

I mean really, who knows? Philadelphia is somewhat held hostage by Embiid's foot, if they know he is going to be healthy next season, they can proceed to trade whomever of the three they wish. The uncertainty right now about his foot means they can't trade him at full value, while it also makes trading Noel or Okafor risky because if they trade one, and Embiid cannot ever become consistently healthy, they'll be left with just one big man. Still, if they are confident in Embiid's health, I would trade Noel. He is an awesome defensive player and a pleasure to watch, but he doesn't fit great at power forward and has the least years left on his rookie contract. Trading Noel to a team looking for a defensive center (Lakers? Celtics? Mavericks?) for a perimeter player like say Marcus Smart would begin to mold the roster into a more balanced structure while not giving up any youth or upside. Besides that, Philadelphia may poke around some of the younger free agents and put out some offer sheets, but it is unlikely this is the summer they push all their chips into the middle. More likely, they target some inexpensive flyers and attempt to resign Ish Smith to play point guard. Isaiah Canaan is a solid point as well, and his ability to shoot should fit well with Okafor, who should really be the one their offense plays through next season. A possible target is Spurs point guard Cory Joseph is a restricted free agent but San Antonio will likely have to let him go as they attempt to make space for LaMarcus Aldridge. Joseph has really stated to come into his own as a solid player and at just 23 would fit into Philadelphia's long term plans. If they can sign him to a reasonable deal, Joseph is the kind of undervalued player that Philadelphia should pounce on. Knicks free agent point guard Shane Larkin would be a less expensive free agent option at point guard, he fit poorly in the triangle and never got a chance in Dallas, but Larkin would fit well in Philadelphia's uptempo offense and can shoot well enough to help space the floor. He is an unrestricted free agent and even younger that Joseph at 22.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Nerlens Noel to Atlanta for Dennis Schroder

OR

Noel to Lakers, Schroder to Philadelphia, Julius Randle to Atlanta

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2015 Draft Review: Los Angeles Lakers

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: D'Angelo Russell/Jordan Clarkson

SG: Kobe Bryant/Jabari Brown

SF: Anthony Brown/Nick Young

PF: Julius Randle/Larry Nance Jr./Ryan Kelly

C: Robert Sacre/Tarik Black

2015 Free Agents

SG Vander Blue (RFA)

PF Carlos Boozer

PF Ed Davis (player option)

SG Wayne Ellington

C Jordan Hill (team option)

F Wesley Johnson

PG Jeremy Lin

PG Ronnie Price

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Ohio State guard D'Angelo Russell 2nd overall

A mild surprise, but D'Angelo Russell is certainly a deserving number two overall pick and fits well with what Los Angeles is trying to do with their roster. They want to bring in established superstars that will be the focal point of the offense like DeMarcus Cousins, LeMarcus Aldridge, and Kevin Love, so Russell's ability to shoot the ball will be important because when he'll still provide spacing and value even when he doesn't have the ball. And Russell's ability to pass will also help because guys like Aldridge, Love, and Cousins aren't coming to L.A. to watch Russell shoot. Russell's ability to play either guard spot is also valuable for the Lakers because it gives them flexibility in free agency, say if a certain former UCLA point guard hits the market, and no I don't mean Darren Collison, Defense on the perimeter will probably be an issue for L.A. this coming season regardless of what stars they get, they will need to find a big that can protect the rim and cover up for mistakes on the perimeter, Tyson Chandler perhaps?

Drafted Wyoming power forward Larry Nance Jr. 27th overall

A somewhat less mild surprise, the Lakers took what many consider to be a reach. It isn't so much that Nance is a bad prospect, he certainly would have been drafted, it is where they took him and who else was available that makes this pick questionable. The 22 year-old Nance Jr. is a good athlete that is very effective finishing at the rim (82%) but he doesn't take advantage of that ability very often, instead taking well over half of his shots between the rim and three-point line and converting them at a not great rate (37%). His face-up game is decent, but it is not exactly a weapon that a high level NBA team will want to use very often. I'd say his NBA role would be using his length and athletic ability as a rebounder/shot blocker/finisher, but only showed the ability to really do one of those things; his shot-blocking numbers were below-average and rebounding downright bad. A good steal rate suggests that Nance could be a decent perimeter defender, he has the athletic ability for it, which could be a help on a team that has some poor perimeter defenders. All of this sounds like an good lower-tier prospect, but not the kind of player you give a guaranteed deal to in the first round when better, younger players are available to you. I can't definitely say Nance Jr. has a better chance to succeed than Iowa's Aaron White, who went twenty-two picks later.

Drafted Stanford wing Anthony Brown 34th overall

This is much more like it, Anthony Brown is a far superior prospect to Nance Jr. and would have been good value at twenty-seven. Brown is exactly the type of player the Lakers need, a low usage 3-and-D wing player that has the potential to shoot 40%+ from three and play above-average defense. Players like Brown are crucial for a team like the Lakers who, even if they do absolutely nothing in free agency, already have three starters that can use up a ton of offensive possessions. Russell, Bryant, Randle, and whatever stars they try to acquire will be high usage players who have the ball in their hands quite a bit. Therefore it's important for the other players sharing the court with them to be effective on limited or no touches, which is where Brown's abilities come into play. Brown's ability to shoot the ball will make teams think twice about doubling off them, and make them pay if they do. That space is created whether he touches the ball or not, just by the very threat of giving up and open three-pointer. Brown is a better fit that Nick Young in the starting lineup and I wouldn't be at all surprised if he starts more times than not this season.

What To Do Next

This summer and next will all be about luring stars to L.A, whether it be Aldridge, Love, or any other number of free agents and trade targets. Whatever the Lakers do, they will need to find a defensive anchor in the middle because Bryant, Russell, and Randle may all struggle significantly on the defensive end. They signed UDFA Robert Upshaw, probably the best rim protector in the draft that went undrafted because of his off-court issues. If Upshaw cleans himself up, he could be that anchor but if not L.A. will be looking for someone to cover up their perimeter defensive shortcomings. Tyson Chandler, Robin Lopez, Omer Asik, and Kosta Koufos all could be non-superstar options for them at center. Aside from that, shooting and perimeter defense will need to be a priority. If the Lakers are willing to use some capspace on a non-superstar player, the likes of Danny Green, DeMarre Carroll, or Wes Matthews would really help particularly in those areas. Because he is able to play small forward, Carroll may be the best option of those three.

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2015 Draft Review: Minnesota Timbewolves

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Ricky Rubio/Tyus Jones/Lorenzo Brown

SG: Kevin Martin/Zach LaVine

SF: Andrew Wiggins/Shabazz Muhammad/Chase Budinger

PF: Gorgui Dieng/Adreian Payne/Anthony Bennett

C: Karl Towns/Nikola Pekovic

2015 Free Agents

PF Kevin Garnett

G Gary Neal

G Jorge Gutierrez (RFA)

C Arinze Onuaku (RFA)

C Justin Hamilton (RFA)

F Robbie Hummel (RFA)

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Kentucky center Karl-Anthony Towns 1st overall

The obvious pick and the correct one. Towns and Andrew Wiggins give Minnesota a pair of the most promising two-way players in the NBA both under the age of 21. The next step for Minnesota is filling out the roster around them and Ricky Rubio. Zach LaVine has shown that he can make 3s and score in transition, so his long-term fit at shooting guard seems solid. At power forward Adreian Payne needs to get the range he showed in college back or else he'll top out as an energy/defense big man off of the bench and Minnesota will need to find a more suitable power forward to play next to Towns. They seem to have given up on Anthony Bennett, but there is still a lot of talent there if a team can get him in shape and taking (and hopefully making) smart shots. Minnesota's top priority should be finding shooters to space the floor and another ball-handler/creator on the perimeter. With their next pick, Minnesota did just that.

Drafted Duke point guard Tyus Jones 24th overall

The Timberwolves used their two second round picks (31 and 36) to trade with Cleveland into the first round and select Jones. In the upper two-thirds of the first round, a player like Jones who is a below-average NBA athlete, is a risk but at this point that is mitigated because the expectation of Jones is to just be a very good backup to Ricky Rubio, which is what he is best suited to do. With LaVine clearly better suited playing off the ball, Minnesota had a need for a back-up point guard and because of their post-up heavy offense, a guard that can shoot and knows how to feed the post would be ideal. Jones fits that description very well, in his lone season at Duke Jones shot 38% on threes and 89% from the line, suggesting he can be an above-average shooter in the NBA. At Duke, Jones played with the best post player in the country, Jahlil Okafor, and was very good getting him the ball in the correct spots. Jones is also a polished ball-handler who always seems to make the correct decisions in the pick-and-roll; a Jones/Towns pick-and-pop could be a devastating attack to sustain offense when Rubio is on the bench. Therefore it is easy to see how Jones fits in Minnesota on the offensive end, and though defense is Jones' biggest weakness that should be mitigated some as Wiggins, LaVine, Payne, and Towns develop into the above-average or better defenders they have the potential to. This isn't a high upside pick because Jones is physically limited, but he fits what Minnesota wants to do and should be a quality backup for them. Jones, a Minnesota native, also provides the Wolves with some free local good will.

What to do next?

Assuming that Minnesota brings back Kevin Garnett as a player/mentor, they should be relatively quite in the free agent market because they have a lot of young players that need to get playing time and not a ton of pressure to win now. When Towns and Wiggins are ready to carry this team to the next level and they have one or two more lottery picks in the fold, perhaps next year, most likely 2017, that's when Minnesota should be filling holes with veterans and spending free agent money. This summer, their focus should be finding trade partners for Pekovic, Martin, and Bennett, looking for future assets or a more established back-up veteran or two in order to keep the team from becoming Garnett and the Muppet babies.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Kevin Martin to Memphis for Courtney Lee

OR

Nikola Pekovic to Milwaukee for O.J. Mayo

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Batum, Lamb, Barnes Trades

Hornets get SF Nicolas Batum

Blazers get PF Noah Vonleh, SG Gerald Henderson

I had mentioned Batum as a possible trade candidate to a team like Utah a couple weeks back, but Charlotte hadn't entered my thinking. The trade does make sense on their end, either as a part of their team moving forward or as a trade piece in the draft. He has always been an unappreciated player because he played in Portland with some bigger stars, but Batum is basically the ultimate role player who fits in seamlessly as a great third option. His fit in Charlotte's lineup is a little non-traditional because he'll be playing shooting guard at 6-8, but Batum has always been better against smaller players because he is so long and quick, but not very strong. Offensively, he had a down year last season but considering he has a consistent track record before that as a 35-40% three-point shooter on a high number of attempts, it is pretty safe to write off 2014-15 as a wrist injury aided aberration. This is good because Charlotte needs shooting more than any team in the league and could use Batum's ability to handle the ball and pass. Despite his size, Batum has developed into a quality pick-and-roll player that should help take some of the pressure off of Kemba Walker. Batum definitely fits best as a shooting guard, but can move up to the three on occasion and would make an intruiging small-ball lineup moving Michael Kidd-Gilchrist to power forward. The issue with this deal for Charlotte is that they gave up a lot of years of control over Vonleh for Batum, who will be a free agent in the summer of 2016. He'll turn 27 this year, so it should be safe to re-sign him and get his a good part of his prime years and early decline, but there is always the risk that he walks next summer and leaves Charlotte with nothing.

For Portland, it was first reported that this wasn't a sign of rebuilding and it wouldn't affect their ability to re-sign LaMarcus Aldridge but now ESPN is reporting there is a "99.9% chance" he is leaving in free agency this summer. If that is they case, Portland will have lost their best player Aldridge, their fourth best player Batum and could possibly lose their third best player, free agent Wes Matthews, who is by-the-way coming off of a torn Achilles and turning 29 this year. That smells an awful lot like rebuilding, in which case the acquisition of Vonleh makes a ton of sense: he is young (turning 20), a top 10 pick just last season, and on his rookie deal for three more seasons, with the possibility of staying under team control for almost a decade. However, all of that means absolutely nothing if he isn't any good, which is still up for debate. It's hard to learn anything based off of last season, Vonleh was injured and Charlotte was such a mess that evaluating the 259 minutes he played is rather fruitless. Coming into the draft, Vonleh had a tremendous frame at 6-10, 240 with a 7-4+ wingspan and good athletic testing numbers,  though the question remains whether he can actually effectively use that athletic ability on the court. One thing is clear, Vonleh can rebound. He did so in college and posted a top-20 rebound rate in his limited minutes this season (18.3). Part of Vonleh's appeal is that he projects as a good defender who can shoot from the perimeter at times, though really he didn't do either of those things particularly well in his first year, but like I said, it was basically a lost season. Because of the questions about Vonleh's ability to move laterally, it makes sense for him to play mostly center where he can certainly rebound and protect the rim, even if his help defense isn't outstanding. Offensively, all will rely on his jumper and whether it develops into a consistent weapon. If it does, Portland can get an approximation, albeit a lesser one, of the spacing, solid overall defense, and rebounding that Aldridge provided. 

Henderson is probably just here for the one season remaining on his contract, if indeed Portland decides to rebuild. He is a good defender against both shooting guards and small forward, but a lack of range offensively causes some spacing issues, making Henderson perhaps better suited to a bench role. Another possibility would be to use Henderson as part of a trade to acquire younger, higher upside talent.  Henderson is a useful player that could definitely help boost a contenders bench without a long term financial commitment. 

Thunder get PG Luke Ridnour

Hornets get SG Jeremy Lamb

Grizzlies get SF Matt Barnes

Magic get the draft rights to SF Janis Timma

This wasn't a four team trade, but essentially amounted to one. Ridnour might stick as Oklahoma City's third point guard, but considering they are trying to save money and create roster space, I wouldn't count on it.

Timma's rights are actually a bigger deal the average fan might believe, despite being the 60th overall pick in 2013, Kevin Pelton projects Timma as an above-replacement level player in the NBA. You'll probably read some jokes on the internet about Memphis getting Barnes for nothing, but Timma has actual value. If and when he comes to the NBA is up for debate, but Timma is a good athlete that has steadily developed his jumper to the point of being an above-average shooter.

Barnes is a decent addition to Memphis' wing rotation, at 35 how much is left in the tank is debatable, but he can still shoot, making between 34-36% of his threes last season on a decent number of attempts the last three seasons. Defensively, Barnes has slipped and is now better defending power forwards and could give Memphis some good small ball options, particularly paired with Jeff Green, who annually is better defending small forwards but is much better playing offensively against power forwards. The shooting is the real key, if Memphis can get Barnes to shoot more 3s and continue to make them efficiently, it will be huge for them.

For Charlotte, they gave up a player they weren't going to keep for a talented young player that helps to fix their biggest weakness and has potential to be very good. Lamb never found footing in Oklahoma City but actually played well when on the court. He's shot 35% from three in the NBA was also a career 35% shooter from deep in college and in the D-League as well. Interestingly, from three Lamb shot better in catch and shoot situations in 2013-14 (39%) and shot really well off-the-dribble last season (40%), if he can put those both together consistently Lamb could become a very good shooter. Even if not, Lamb is an above-average three-point shooter who also plays very good defense and has the potential to be even better on that end as he gains experience. At worst, I think if Lamb gets minutes he will be an excellent 3-and-D wing player capable of guarding positions 1-3, provided that the small forwards aren't too strong. Where Lamb, who just turned 23, stands out though is that he has potential for more, a very smooth athlete that can really jump and has 6-11 wingspan, he has a killer crossover and can attack the rim when in attack mode, which isn't as often as it should be. Overall, this is a great acquisition that should net Charlotte a rotation player at worst and help improve Charlotte's greatest weakness: shooting. Combine that with the trade for Batum, particularly by shipping out Henderson's lack of shooting ability, and the Hornet's have turn a big weakness into a relative strength without sacrificing any defense or playmaking ability.

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Final NBA Mock Draft

View image | gettyimages.com

With the draft just mere hours away, there is an incredible amount of uncertainty regarding every pick after number 1 overall. In addition, the picture is clouded even more by teams looking to trade up, trade down, trade their superstar, trade for a superstar, or even trade their whole roster. This mock draft is very very very likely to be completely in accurate, but that really isn't the point is it? Enjoy!

01. Minnesota Timberwolves: Karl Towns, C Kentucky (6-11, 250) Age: 19

This has become a near lock at this point and it would be very surprising if Minnesota went in any other direction. What is more interesting is if Minnesota will attempt any draft night deals involving Kevin Martin or Nikola Pekovic. 

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Jahlil Okafor, C Duke (6-11, 272) Age: 19

This is becoming more and more firm but still not a lock by any means. It seems that Kristaps Porzingis and D'Angelo Russell are the others in consideration. A trade is also a possibility, with L.A. supposedly trying to acquire DeMarcus Cousins.

03. Philadelphia 76ers: Mario Hezonja, G/F Barcelona (6-8, 200) Age: 20

Everyone is so sure that this pick will be Russell that it makes me feel like the exact opposite is going to happen. Philadelphia never lets any info out so if you read any rumors about who they are interested in, don't trust them. Porzingis, Hezonja, Mudiay, and Russell seem like the most like outcomes, with the two Euros being most likely in my mind, though Russell makes a lot of sense in a vacuum.

04. New York Knicks: D'Angelo Russell, SG Ohio State (6-5, 193) Age: 19

Whether it be trading their pick for someone like Eric Bledsoe or reaching for a fit in the triangle, it just seems like there is so much smoke around New York doing something besides what is expected that it will happen. Okafor, Russell, Porzingis, Mudiay, and Winslow are all possibilities if they do draft here, as are guys like Trey Lyles and Frank Kaminsky if New York goes off the board.

05. Orlando Magic: Kristaps Porzingis, PF Sevilla (7-2, 230) Age: 20

Winslow is the player that fits what Orlando has done in the last couple drafts, but Porzingis isn't a dissimilar type of intense, committed player either and has significantly more upside than Winslow. The Magic have also been rumored to be involved in a Cousins/Lakers trade, which would obviously change the landscape of their team greatly.

06. Sacramento Kings: Justice Winslow, G/F Duke (6-7, 222) Age: 19

First of all: who know what will happen with this roster in the next couple of days, it could be a completely different team by next week. Though Mudiay would be the smart pick, I get the feeling George Karl isn't particularly interested in developing a young point guard and would rather acquire one by trade (Lawson) or free agency (Rondo). Winslow can be a Rudy Gay replacement if he is traded, or play alongside him.

07. Denver Nuggets: Emmanuel Mudiay, PG Guandong (6-5, 200) Age: 19

Mudiay would be a steal at this point and would make trading Ty Lawson much easier. Even if Lawson isn't traded, Mudiay definitely has the size to play next to Lawson and would fill their hole at shooting guard. I could see them taking any of the guys that are drafted before them in this mock here, or moving up with the help of Lawson/Faried.

08. Detroit Pistons: Stanley Johnson, F Arizona (6-7, 242) Age: 19

Once they acquired Ersan Illysova, Detroit's number one need became clear: small forward. They would love Winslow or Hezonja if they fall, but Johnson's ability to shoot and defend multiple positions wouldn't be a bad consolation. Kelly Oubre and Sam Dekker are more off the board possibilities.

09. Charlotte Hornets: Frank Kaminsky, PF Wisconsin (7-1, 231) Age: 22

Al Jefferson opted in and Spencer Hawes was acquired by trade, but neither are long term options at center for Charlotte. Frank Kaminsky is the logical choice here though Willie Cauley-Stein is an option. Kaminsky is a perfect fit for this roster because of his ability to stretch the floor, something  Charlotte desperately needs.

10. Miami Heat: Myles Turner, C Texas (7-0, 239) Age: 19

This is just a hunch, but I think Miami may be looking at this pick as more of an asset than as chairman contributor. If they want early help, Kaminksy, Oubre, or Johnson would definitely help but Turner has a lot of long-term appeal and could be flipped pretty easily to a rebuilding team in exchange for a veteran.

11. Indiana Pacers: Willie Cauley-Stein, C Kentucky (7-1, 242) Age: 21

Larry Bird loves Cauley-Stein and this would be perfect scenario for them if Cauley-Stein falls to their pick. The Pacers want to play fast and Cauley-Stein would be much better for that over Roy Hibbert without having much if any of a defensive drop-off.

12. Utah Jazz: Devin Booker, SG Kentucky (6-6, 206) Age: 18
The Jazz have a really loaded roster but they're offense is built off of shooting and ball-movement, which suits Booker who can really shoot and is a smart player that moves the ball well. Kaminsky is a great fit here too because he can play alongside both Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors.

13. Phoenix Suns: Kelly Oubre, G/F Kansas (6-7, 203) Age: 19
The Suns could be in very different spot if they end up trading Eric Bledsoe for the number 4 pick, but if they stay here I'd expect them to look for frontcourt depth, big or wing. Oubre is the kind of player Phoenix likes and would be a nice compliment to T.J. Warren at small forward, I could see him in Gerald Green's role from last season.

14. Oklahoma City Thunder: Cameron Payne, PG Murray State (6-2, 183) Age: 20
The Thunder have a pretty loaded roster, but after next season they will have a need for a backup point guard. Cameron Payne strikes a nice balance between scoring and distributing with the requisite spot-up shooting ability to play next to Russell Westbrook on occasion.

15. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn): Bobby Portis, F/C Arkansas (6-11, 246) Age: 20
It seems unlikely that Atlanta would let Paul Millsap depart in free agency, but even if he stays their frontcourt is shallow. Portis can play either the four or the five and has range on his jumper, which would fit right into Atlanta's offense. A wing to replace the potentially departing DeMarre Carroll is another possibility.

16. Boston Celtics: Trey Lyles, F/C Kentucky (6-10, 241) Age: 19
Lyles isn't the best compliment to what the Celtics already have in their frontcourt, but teams view him as a lottery talent, so Boston may not be able to pass him up. Their biggest need is an athletic big man, so Kevon Looney and Christian Wood are possibilities. The latest rumor is Boston looking at Jordan Mickey here, but they might be able to get him with their second first rounder.

17. Milwaukee Bucks: Kevon Looney, PF UCLA (6-9, 222) Age: 19
After trading Illysova to the Pistons, the Bucks are light on "true" big men. Kevon Looney, as well as Christian Wood, are definitely Bucks-type players: long, versatile, and can shoot a little. A pure shooter like R.J. Hunter would also make sense for Milwaukee.

18. Houston Rockets (from New Orleans): Delon Wright, PG Utah (6-6, 181) Age: 23
This may be a surprise, but the Rockets put a lot of stock in statistical evaluations of prospects and Delon Wright, despite his age, rates as one of the best players in the draft. He is also a really good player and a great fit for Houston.

19. Washington Wizards: Jerian Grant, PG Notre Dame (6-4, 198) Age: 22
The Wizards would be ecstatic for the local product Jerian Grant to fall to them. He fits exactly what Washington needs, able to capably backup John Wall but also has the size to play next to him. A smallball lineup with Wall, Grant, and Brad Beal would be deadly.

20. Toronto Raptors: Christian Wood, PF UNLV (6-11, 216) Age: 19
Christian Wood is a very Raptors' type selection, he is long, athletic, and inconsistent. However, because they have been unafraid to draft much bigger projects before, I don't think Wood would scare them. He does have some real skills, blocking shots, rebounding, and shooting.

21. Dallas Mavericks: Tyus Jones, PG Duke (6-2, 185) Age: 19
The Mavericks don't ever play rookies anyway, so who they draft here will have time to acclimate themselves to Dallas' system. I think if you give Jones a year to learn a system he'd master it and be very good running their offense, either as a starter or more likely a backup.

22. Chicago Bulls: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, F Arizona (6-7, 211) Age: 20
Hollis-Jefferson could go much higher than this, so Chicago would be getting a steal if he fell this far. Not the type of shooter you'd expect a Fred Hoiberg team to want, but he is very good in transition and moving without the ball, both of which really would Hoiberg. Oh and Hollis-Jefferson is the best perimeter defender in the draft.

23. Portland Trail Blazers: R.J. Hunter, SG Georgia State (6-6, 185) Age: 21
Arron Afflalo declined his option and Wes Matthews is a free agent coming off of a torn Achilles, aka Portland might have a serious need at shooting guard in the very near future. Hunter isn't the defender Matthews is, but he is a similar level of shooter.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers: Sam Dekker, F Wisconsin (6-9, 219) Age: 21
Backup point guard is the biggest need for Cleveland, but if Dekker, who has top ten buzz, falls this far you'd have to think they'd pounce. With the way LeBron changes positional definition on your team, Dekker wouldn't have any problem playing with him at an interchangeable forward spot.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Guillermo Hernangomez, C Sevilla
Both Marc Gasol and Kosta Koufos are free agents, making center a big need for Memphis. Hernangomez might not be coming to the NBA next season, but he rates highly in statistical analysis, which Memphis uses a lot of.

26. San Antonio Spurs: Justin Anderson, SF Virginia (6-6, 231) Age: 21
Justin Anderson and the Spurs seem like a match made in heaven. Anderson is a strong, athletic defender who's jump shot is great as long as he remains consistent. San Antonio is great at getting the most out of players, especially as shooters.

27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Anthony Brown, G/F Stanford (6-7, 211) Age: 22
If the Lakers plan on rolling with Okafor and Julius Randle, they'll need shooting from somewhere else. Brown is one of the best shooters in the draft and is a solid defensive player as well.

28. Boston Celtics (from L.A. Clippers): Montrezl Harrell, PF Louisville (6-8, 253) Age: 21
The Celtics might prefer Mickey here, but Harrell is just too good to pass up and a perfect Brad Stevens player who competes, sets hard screens, communicates of defense, and can guard multiple positions.

29. Brooklyn Nets (from Atlanta Hawks): Jordan Mickey, PF LSU (6-8, 238) Age: 20
With Thaddeus Young electing free agency, the Nets suddenly only have last season's second rounder Cory Jefferson to play power forward for them. Mickey is a little on the short side, but has very long arms and excellent defensive potential.

30. Golden State Warriors: Rashad Vaughn, SG UNLV (6-5, 199) Age: 18
This pick is unlikely to be actually kept by the Warriors, who will look to package it with David Lee to convince someone to take him off their hands. Vaughn is the kind of player teams might be interested in trading for.

31. Minnesota Timberwolves: Michael Frazier II, SG Florida (6-4, 199) Age: 21

One of Minnesota's biggest weaknesses is shooting, which is Frazier's biggest strength. He is also a pretty good defender that could be a solid 3-and-D player off the bench for the Timberwolves.

32. Houston Rockets (from New York): Chris McCullough, PF Syracuse (6-9, 199) Age: 20

The Rockets have done a great job identifying under-appreciated assets in the draft, free agency, and the international market. McCullough will likely appeal to Houston because he can both shoot and block shots.

33. Boston Celtics (from Philadelphia): Robert Upshaw, C Washington (7-0, 258) Age: 21

A defensive anchor in the middle is exactly what Boston needs and what Upshaw offers. He has some off-the-court issues, but Danny Ainge isn't scared to take risks.

34. Los Angeles Lakers: Norman Powell, SG UCLA (6-4, 215) Age: 22

The Lakers have a need for reliable shot creators that can actually get the whole way to the rim. That is what Norman Powell is best at, plus he won't have to move very far.

35. Philadelphia 76ers (from Orlando): Terry Rozier, PG Louisville (6-2, 190) Age: 21

Rozier is exactly the kind of player Philly loves: athletic, tenacious defensively, and plays up and down. I would be surprising the Sixers didn't draft him, and he wasn't their starting point guard, provided they don't take one at 3.

36. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Sacramento) Cedi Osman, SF Anadolu Efes (6-8, 190) Age: 20

Minnesota has a lot of players and not a ton of space, instead of a throwaway pick that won't make the roster, it would make sense for them to look at a stash. Osman has a lot of natural talent, but needs to hone his shooting and get stronger.

37. Philadelphia 76ers (from Denver): Cliff Alexander, PF Kansas (6-9, 239) Age: 19

Another Sixers pick, another supreme athlete who plays very hard. Alexander was thought of as a top ten pick before the season, so this would be a smart gamble by Philadelphia.

38. Detroit Pistons: Jonathan Holmes, PF Texas (6-9, 242) Age: 22

Despite the acquisition of Illysova, Detroit still needs another power forward and Holmes would make sense because he is good at creating perimeter shots at his size. A backup center would also fit their roster needs.

39. Charlotte Hornets: Tyler Harvey, SG Eastern Washington (6-4, 181) Age: 21

The Hornets need shooting more than any team in the draft, especially in the backcourt. Tyler Harvey doesn't do much but shoot but he could carve our a Gary Neal-type career in the NBA. 

40. Miami Heat: Olivier Hanlan, G Boston College (6-4, 186) Age: 22

The Heat have an excellent starting lineup, but are painfully shallow. Olivier Hanlan is an excellent creator and scorer that would really work well as a bench combo guard.

41. Brooklyn Nets: Rakeem Christmas, F/C Syracuse (6-10, 242) Age: 23

The Nets really need depth in their frontcourt, particularly of the good defender variety. Rakeem Christmas is athletic and long, rebounds, defends, and is capable of scoring around the basket.

42. Utah Jazz: Nikola Milutinov, C Partizan (7-0, 220) Age: 20

The Jazz have a pretty full roster, so a stash prospect may be the direction they go in with their second round pick. Nikola Milutinov needs to get stronger and tough, but has a lot to like with mobility, touch, and footwork.

43. Indiana Pacers: Aaron White, PF Iowa (6-9, 220) Age: 22

The Pacers want to space the floor and play faster, two things White can (theoretically) do. He is great getting up and down the floor while also shooting a well on a limited number of threes last season. White rates as the most efficient scorer in the draft, so don't be surprised if an analytically leaning team takes him early than expected.

44. Phoenix Suns: Arturas Gudaitis, Zalgris (6-10, 253) Age: 22

Alex Len has been very promising but also injured a lot, Phoenix needs solid depth behind him. Arturas Gudaitis is an athletic big the can dunk, block shots, and rebound. Perfect for a backup center on a fast-paced team.

45. Boston Celtics: Andrew Harrison, SG Kentucky (6-6, 213) Age: 20

The Celtics have a lot of smaller backcourt players and size has never been Andrew Harrison's problem. Harrison is versatile offensively and defensively, something Brad Stevens values.

46. Milwaukee Bucks: Michael Qualls, SG Arkansas (6-5, 201) Age: 21

Qualls tore his ACL working out, but when healthy he is very much a Bucks player: long arms, athletic, plays hard. His injury would allow Milwaukee the ability to let him heal for a year, since they have a pretty dull rotation this season.

47. Philadelphia 76ers (from New Orleans): J.P. Tokoto, SG North Carolina (6-6, 196) Age: 21

Another Sixers-type guy. Tokoto is a great athlete and defensive player, who can also function as a secondary perimeter playmaker. A poor man's Andre Igoudala, someone Philly knows well.

48. Oklahoma City Thunder: Joseph Young, SG Oregon (6-2, 182) Age: 22

Any Thunder second rounder is probably going to be stashed overseas or in the D-League, but Joseph Young could be useful down the line due to his ability to shoot from all over the floor. A Westbrook/Young backcourt would work.

49. Washington Wizards: Jarrell Martin, PF LSU (6-9, 231) Age: 21

The Wizards desperately need a power forward that can space the floor and Martin has that potential, even if he hasn't really shown it consistently.

50. Atlanta Hawks (from Toronto): Darkari Johnson, C Kentucky (7-0, 265) Age: 21

More depth for Atlanta's frontcourt. Dakari Johnson is a poor athlete and would have to be a backup, but he is good scoring around the basket and rebounding.

51. Orlando Magic (from Chicago Bulls): Josh Richardson, SG Tennessee (6-6, 200) Age: 21

The Magic are light on shooters and Richardson showed to be an ability to make outside shots at an above-average rate. He is also a Magic-type player that loves to play tough defense.

52. Dallas Mavericks: Mouhammadou Jaiteh, C Nanterre (6-11, 247) Age: 20

The Mavericks roster is such an enigma at this point who knows what they really need. Jaiteh is big and has a nice mid-range jumper, but struggles defensively at times. Decent backup potential.

53. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Portland): Quinn Cook, PG Duke (6-2, 179) Age: 22

Backup point guard is a huge area of need for Cleveland, especially one that is able to create his own shot. Cook has played on and off the ball during his time at Duke and would fit what Cleveland wants to do on offense.

54. Utah Jazz (from Cleveland): Julian Washburn, SF UTEP (6-8, 205) Age: 23

This is simply depth for the Jazz, who really don't have a ton of space on their roster. Washburn has 3-and-D potential but needs to work on both.

55. San Antonio Spurs: Daniel Diez, SF San Sebastian (6-8, 216) Age: 22

Diez is an interesting international sleeper in the draft main for the reason that he can really shoot the ball. San Antonio would be stashing him overseas to see if more of his game develops.

56. New Orleans Pelicans (from Memphis): Richaun Holmes, F/C Bowling Green (6-10, 243) Age: 21

The Pelicans could lose Omer Asik to free agency and were thin in the frontcourt to begin with. Richaun Holmes could easily and deservedly go 20 picks higher and could backup Anthony Davis or play with him.

57. Denver Nuggets (from L.A. Clippers): Darion Atkins, PF Virginia (6-8, 240) Age: 22

Atkins is off the radar somewhat, but he is an excellent defender that would appeal to Michael Malone, Atkins might not even be a rotation player, but he would push teammates in practice and be a model defender in Malone's defense.

58. Philadelphia 76ers (from Houston): Alan Williams, C UCSB (6-8, 261) Age: 22

Williams is a big time sleeper because he has done nothing but dominate and rates very well analytically, despite lacking great size or athletic ability. 

59. Atlanta Hawks: T.J. McConnell, PG Arizona (6-2, 199) Age: 23

McConnell is a tough defender and playmaker who could be a solid third point guard. Atlanta has shown a liking for college performers in past second rounds.

60. Philadelphia 76ers (from Golden State Warriors): Chris Walker, F Florida (6-9, 208) Age: 20

This is another pick I think is very likely to happen. Chris "Sky" Walker was more "bench rider" at Florida, but their are few athletes in the world that compare to Walker.

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2015 Draft Preview: Golden State Warriors

2015-16 Depth Chart
PG: Stephan Curry/Shaun Livingston
SG: Klay Thompson
SF: Harrison Barnes/Andre Igoudala
PF: David Lee/James Michael McAdoo
C: Andrew Bogut/Fesus Ezeli

2015 Free Agents
F Draymond Green (RFA)
SG Justin Holiday (RFA)
C Ognjen Kuzmic (RFA)
SG Leandro Barbosa
SG Brandon Rush (player option)
Marresse Speights (team option)

2015 Draft Picks
1-30

Team Needs

What does a team coming of a historically dominant season really need? Probably nothing, but teams that don't attempt to improve after having great seasons rarely repeat them. Part of the reason they were so good this last season was health, but injuries are a fickle thing that can pop up at any time essentially. To combat that, teams need depth; no one was deeper than the Warriors last season either, but their backups were also never over-exposed by injuries in front of them. Even if the player Golden State drafts is ther tenth man on their team, if they are a quality player that knows their role, they will be able to step in and produce.

Potential Fits

There are a number of prospects that could come in and be ready to contribute right away as a depth player that might be available here. If they are comfortable with Washington center Robert Upshaw's past off-the-court problems, he could be an intruiging upgrade on Festus Ezeli. Virgina's Justin Anderson should be able to guard 2s, 3s, and 4s defensively and has shown an ability to make outside shots. One prospect that seems like a perfect fit for Golden State is Utah guard Delon Wright; he is a very smart player who plays hard, can defend multiple positions, rebound, and get to the rim. As a fourth or fifth guard, Wright would provide exactly the kind of depth Golden State needs to continue to make deep playoff runs. Their is also a chance the Warriors don't wish to add another player/contract to their roster and could look at a foreign player to stash and save some money and a roster spot.

Mock Draft
30. Delon Wright, PG, Utah

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2015 Draft Preview: Brooklyn Nets

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Deron Williams/Jarrett Jack/Darius Morris

SG: Joe Johnson/Markel Brown

SF: Bojan Bogdanovic/Sergey Karasev/Earl Clark

PF: Cory Jefferson

C: Mason Plumlee

2015 Free Agents

C Jerome Jordan (RFA)

PF Mirza Teletovic (RFA)

SG Alan Anderson (player option)

C Brook Lopez (player option)

F Thaddeus Young (early termination clause)

2015 Draft Picks

1-29

2-11(41)

Team Needs

What the Nets need most is a clean slate and a fresh start, which unfortunately are not available in the draft this year. This summer Brooklyn has a lot of decisions to make on essentially their entire frontcourt; besides Thad Young could elect free agency, Brooklyn will have to decide if they are going to re-sign Brook Lopez, Mirza Teletovic, and Jerome Jordan while also reportedly shopping Mason Plumlee. Basically, Brooklyn's big man rotation might look very different next season. Elsewhere, aside from Joe Johnson and Bojan Bogdanovic, the Nets lack much in the way of proven wing players and could use another, more athletic player to compliment Bogdanovic.

Potential Fits

There are several big men that could be available near the bottom of the first round that could turn out as solid depth options for Brooklyn. LSU big men Jordan Mickey and Jarell Martin are projected in this range and offer differing skillset. Mickey is an excellent defender and rebounder, but somewhat limited offensively, while Martin has a better feel offensively, though he lacks any carrying NBA skill. Syracuse's Rakeem Christmas is similar to Mickey, just a little bit bigger and a couple years older. His teammate for the Orange, Chris McCullough is more of a project as he recovers from a knee injury and develops his body, but also has a lot more upside than Mickey, Martin, or Christmas because of his jumpshot. Another player with a little more upside, mostly due to his age, is Kansas' Cliff Alexander. Alexander has an NBA body and should be a good defender but is a little bit behind as an offensive player.

Mock Draft
29. Jordan Mickey, PF, LSU
41. Olivier Hanlan, G, Boston College

2015 Draft Preview: Memphis Grizzlies

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Mike Conley/Beno Udrih/Russ Smith

SG: Courtney Lee/Vince Carter/Jordan Adams

SF: Tony Allen

PF: Zach Randolph/Jarnell Stokes/JaMychal Green

C: Jon Leuer

2015 Free Agents

PG Nick Calathes 

C Marc Gasol

F Jeff Green (player option)

C Kosta Koufos

2015 Draft Picks

1-25

Team Needs

The Grizzlies perennially need another creative offensive player as well as more 3-point shooting, so it would certainly make sense for them to target a player that can help them in that area. However, there may be bigger needs materializing this summer as both Marc Gasol and Kosta Koufos are going to be free agents. Gasol will likely be re-signed, but Koufos is almost certain to leave for another team, opening up a big hole at backup center. While that may not seem like a big deal, Koufos was one of the best backup centers in the NBA and helped keep Memphis' defense playing at a high level when Gasol was off the court. For Memphis, who's second unit occasionally struggled to score, this was vitally important to their success and kept them from having to overplay Gasol. Memphis is also a team that could make a trade that dramatically reshape their roster, Zach Randolph perhaps?

Potential Fits

There are a couple of shooters that could be available when Memphis drafts, Stanford's Anthony Brown and Virginia's Justin Anderson both could fit the bill and help keep the Grizzlies defense playing at a high level. UNLV's Rashad Vaughn is a shot-creator at shooting guard that could appeal to Memphis, however he is somewhat one dimensional and sort of a lesser version of Jordan Adams. The best fit to what may be Memphis' biggest need is Washington center Robert Upshaw, who is a legitimate top 10 talent but has some big off-the-court issues in his past. Upshaw is the best interior defender in the draft, a shot blocking machine with the strength to bang in the paint. Memphis has done a great job helping rehab questionable characters in the past and have strong team leaders that could help Upshaw get the most out of his ability and life.

Mock Draft
25. Robert Upshaw, C, Washington

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2015 Draft Preview: San Antonio Spurs

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Tony Parker/Patty Mills

SG: Reggie Williams

SF: Kyle Anderson

PF: Boris Diaw

C: Tiago Splitter

2015 Free Agents

PF Aron Baynes (RFA)

PG Cory Joseph (RFA)

SF Kawhi Leonard (RFA)

PF Jeff Ayres

SG Marco Belinelli

PF Matt Bonner

F/C Tim Duncan

SG Manu Ginobili

SG Danny Green

2015 Draft Picks

1-26

2-25(55)

Team Needs

The Spurs will keep Spurs-ing along, likely bringing back at least Tim Duncan, Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili and a couple other role players. The biggest question this offseason really is what happens with Danny Green. Green is a very valuable player for San Antonio  but he will likely get big offers in the off-season from teams with cap space which the Spurs won't want to match is Green willing to take less to stay in a perfect situation? Other Spurs have in the past, but not on their first big payday. If Green does depart, it will leave a hole at shooting guard that will need to be replaced with another 3-and-D player. Besides that, San Antonio is always planning for the future with players that fit their system and can step up when called upon.

Potential Fits

If the Spurs are looking to replace Danny Green, their are two main options likely to be there when they draft: Virgina's Justin Anderson and Stanford's Anthony Brown. Anderson can guard both forward and wings with potential to be very disruptive due to his size and athletic ability, but has only one season of shooting at a high level and inconsistent mechanics. Brown doesn't have as much defensive upside or versatility as Anderson, but he is solid all around on that end and can really shoot the ball. Anderson is younger and has a higher upside, and I believe in the Spurs ability to get the most out of players. The most out of Anderson is greater than the most out of Brown. Utah guard Delon Wright wouldn't be a Green replacement but he is a Spurs-type player that defends at a high level, rebounds, and can create off the dribble. If, and it is a big if, UNLV's Christian Wood unexpectedly falls, I wouldn't be surprised to see San Antonio take him as a potential Duncan replacement down the road.

Mock Draft 

26. Justin Anderson, SF, Virginia

55. Guillermo Hernangomez, C, Sevilla

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2015 Draft Preview: Cleveland Cavaliers

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Kyrie Irving

SG: Joe Harris

SF: ???

PF: ???

C: Anderson Verejao/Brendan Haywood

2015 Free Agents

PG Matthew Dellavedova (RFA)

PF Tristan Thompson (RFA)

SG Iman Shumpert (RFA)

G/F/C LeBron James (player option)

PF Kevin Love (player option)

SG Mike Miller (player option)

SG J.R. Smith (player option)

C Timofey Mozgov (team option)

F James Jones

C Kendrick Perkins

F Shawn Marion

2015 Draft Picks

1-24

2-23(53) via Portland

Team Needs

LeBron is opting in, so Cleveland's roster needs will be about building around him. What Cleveland's other free agents do, namely Kevin Love, are more up in the air, however Cleveland aren't going to be able to replace him at this point in the draft so it doesn't really matter in regards to their draft plan. While conventional wisdom says you need to surround LeBron with shooters, rebounders, and defenders but as the Finals have shown, Cleveland needs shot creators and smart offensive basketball players that can create some offense outside of LeBron. Kyrie Irving helps with that, but in four straight seasons he has got hurt, and even when healthy Cleveland needs more or else all the pressure of perimeter offense will be on two players instead of one. 

Potential Fits

There are several perimeter player available in the late first round range that can create offense from th perimeter. Duke point guard Tyus Jones is a high IQ player that can run an offense all on his own and shoot the ball as well. Delon Wright of Utah is similarly smart, and though not as pure of a point guard or as good of a shooter, he offers rebounding and excellent defense in addition to creating off the dribble. UNLV's Rashad Vaughn is a classic scoring two-guard in the J.R. Smith mold, but a little more likely to attack the basket and a little less combustible. Role playing 3-and-D players will likely also catch Cleveland's eye, Justin Anderson of UVA and Stanford's Anthony Brown would fit, but again while those players are valuable they also contribute to overworking LeBron and Irving, which over time will shorten their window.

Mock Draft

24. Tyus Jones, PG, Duke

53. Cliff Alexander, PF, Kansas

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2015 Draft Preview: Portland Trail Blazers

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Damian Lillard/Tim Frazier

SG: C.J. McCollum/Allen Crabbe

SF: Nicolas Batum

PF: Meyers Leonard

C: Chris Kamen

2015 Free Agents

PG Joel Freeland (RFA)

SG Arron Afflalo (player option)

PG Steve Blake (player option)

PF LaMarcus Aldridge

SG Wesley Matthews

SG Alonzo Gee

C Robin Lopez

SF Dorell Wright

2015 Draft Picks

1-23

Team Needs

The future of Portland's franchise will very much depend on what LaMarcus Aldridge decides to do this summer. If he stays, they are a playoff team again, if he goes they are in rebuilding more. If the latter comes to pass, this pick should be spent on a higher upside, riskier prospect that might fall to them. If the former, then Portland needs to upgrade their bench, long the Achilles heel of this team despite the resources poured into improving the quality of their depth, nothing has really worked for the Blazers. If Aldridge goes or stays, Portland might look to trade Nicolas Batum on draft night to either jumpstart their rebuild or rework their rotation in order to fix the depth issues. A team like Utah or Oklahoma City could offer a lottery pick and young player for Batum.

Potential Fits

The only position Portland probably wouldn't look at is point guard, but even their the depth is suspect behind Damien Lillard. Basically, the Blazers should take the best player on their board to (hopefully) slot into the bench rotation, with an emphasis on shooting and playing defense. Virginia's Justin Anderson is an excellent, versatile defender who shot well last season, but is suspect in that area. Anthony Brown of Stanford lacks Anderson's defensive upside, but he is very solid and a much better shooter. Utah's Delon Wright has the size and defensive ability to play alongside Lillard, but can function as a primary creator off the bench. R.J. Hunter of Georgia State would give Portland a knockdown shooter if Wesley Matthews leaves in free agency. Though he may be drafted very high, there is a chance Kentucky's Trey Lyles is available for Portland, where I think he would be the best of both world's for Portland. Able to contribute as a body off the bench, but with some upside if his shooting improves.

Mock Draft

23. Trey Lyles, F/C, Kentucky

2015 Draft Preview: Chicago Bulls

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Derrick Rose

SG: Tony Snell/E'Twaun Moore

SF: Doug McDermott

PF: Pau Gasol/Nikola Mirotic

C: Joakim Noah/Taj Gibson/Cameron Bairstow

2015 Free Agents

SG Jimmy Butler (RFA) 

PG Aaron Brooks

SF Mike Dunleavy

G Kirk Hinrich (player option)

C Nazr Muhammed 

2015 Draft Picks

1-22

Team Needs

Chicago's biggest need is health and time enough to learn their new coaches system to be able to play as a together as a unit. In more of a player personnel sense, a lot will depend on whether Mike Dunleavy is re-signed. Even if Doug McDermott is ready to take Dunleavy's role, Chicago will still need depth and a defensive stopper to compliment him. New Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg is an offensive-minded coach that uses a lot of movement, tempo, and shooting in his offenses, so he'll likely be looking at players that fit that template. Because of their injury issues, depth up-and-down the roster is always a need for Chicago.

Potential Fits

Looking at prospects that might be available when the Bulls draft, Sam Dekker seems like an ideal fit in Hoiberg's offense. He is offensively versatile, able to play either forward position, handle the ball, get out in transition, and (mostly) shoot the ball. Another way Chicago could replace a potentially departing Dunleavy is with Georgia State's R.J. Hunter, who is more of a two-guard but could flip spots with Jimmy Butler and give Bulls some much needed shooting. Any of the power forwards with jump shooting potential would make sense because of Hoiberg's emphasis on spacing the floor. Lyles, Looney, Wood all would fit. Another option would be a point guard, not that Derrick Rose and Aaron Brooks need upgrading, but a deep, versatile offensive backcourt would give them a lot of offensive options, plus Brooks is a free agent and would still need to be re-signed. Notre Dame's Jerian Grant would be perfect because of his size, but he might not be available.

Mock Draft

22. Sam Dekker, F, Wisconsin

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