2015 Draft Review: Dallas Mavericks

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Devin Harris/Raymond Felton

SG: Wes Matthews

SF: Chandler Parsons/Justin Anderson

PF: Dirk Nowitzki/Dwight Powell

C: DeAndre Jordan

2015 Free Agents

C Bernard James (RFA)

F Al-Farouq Aminu

G J.J. Barea 

C Tyson Chandler

G Monta Ellis

SF Richard Jefferson

PG Rajon Rondo

C Greg Smith

PF Amar'e Stoudemire

F Charlie Villanueva

What They Did On Draft Night 

Drafted Virginia forward Justin Anderson 21st overall
The Mavericks rarely use their draft picks and literally haven't developed any of them in recent years, so I wouldn't get my hopes too high that Justin Anderson is on the Mavericks at the end of his rookie contract, but that doesn't mean he can't have a successful NBA career. If Anderson isn't traded, he could be an important part of the Mavericks rotation soon because Dallas has a ton invested in their starting lineup, but little depth elsewhere. Anderson is also the type of player Dallas needs, a strong defensive-minded NBA athlete that can guard multiple positions and cover for some of their less effective defensive players. Anderson can play shooting guard, wing, and power forward so he can fill in for either Dirk Nowitzki, Chandler Parsons, or Wes Matthews. That matters because Dirk is 37 and both Parsons and Matthews are coming off of serious injuries. Where Anderson will really become valuable for Dallas is if his shooting last season was not a fluke and he can make threes at an above-average rate. Pick-and-rolls/pops with DeAndre Jordan and Dirk respectively will be a major part of the Mavs offense, so the spacing Anderson can give will give those players some extra room to operate.

Drafted Indian center Satnam Singh Bhamara 52nd overall
While there are definitely some ulterior motives in the drafting of Bhamara, the first Indian player to ever be drafted, the Mavericks are committed to develop him in the D-League. A 7-2, 290 pound nineteen year-old, Singh needs to first improve his body to increase mobility and vertical explosiveness, plodding centers are a dying breed in the NBA, then it is a matter of gaining skills. Bhamara is huge, but so is Roy Hibbert, and that gains players nothing without footwork, touch, body positioning, and vertical force. Satnam pushed around much smaller players in high school, something that isn't going to serve him much at the next level.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Toronto Raptors

2015-16 Depth Chart
PG: Kyle Lowry/Delon Wright

SG: DeMar DeRozan/Terrence Ross/Norman Powell

SF: DeMarre Carroll/Bruno Caboclo

PF: Patrick Patterson/James Johnson

C: Jonas Valenciunas/Lucas Nogueira

2015 Free Agents

SF Landry Fields

PF Tyler Hansbrough

C Chuck Hayes

PF Amir Johnson

C Greg Steimsma 

G Lou Williams

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Utah point guard Delon Wright 20th Overall

After trading Greivis Vasquez, the Raptors needed a backup point guard and had the chance to select one that complimented Kyle Lowry better while also improving the team's biggest weakness. Delon Wright can legitimately play point guard, but has the size to defend wings meaning he can play alongside Lowry as well, relieving some of Toronto's reliance on his playmaking and hopefully keeping him from wearing down. Wright is also an excellent defender, a huge upgrade over what Vasquez offered on that end, that should help improve the Raptor's defense when he is on the floor. Wright is 23, so basically a finished product, but ready to play basically right away and could form a nice second unit backcourt combo with Terrence Ross, who compliments Wright's one big weakness: shooting.

Traded Greivis Vasquez to Milwaukee for Norman Powell and a 2016 conditional first-round pick

Getting a first round pick of any kind for a backup on an expiring deal is a good move, especially when you have a ready made replacement that fits you team better available to you in the draft. Toronto also got back the draft rights to the 46th pick, which the used on Norman Powell. The idea behind drafting Powell is similar to that of Wright: find more creators that can get to the rim and take some pressure off of Kyle Lowry. Powell also somewhat duplicates what Lou Williams brought to the team, so if he departs in free agency, Toronto at least has a creative scorer type to try as a potential replacement.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Washington Wizards

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: John Wall/Ramon Sessions

SG: Bradley Beal/Martell Webster

SF: Otto Porter Jr./Jared Dudley/Kelly Oubre

PF: Nene/Kris Humphries/DeJuan Blair/Aaron White

C: Marcin Gortat

2015 Free Agents

SF Rasual Butler

PG Will Bynum

PF Drew Gooden

F Paul Pierce (player option)

C Kevin Seraphin

G Garrett Temple (player option)

What a They Did On Draft Night 

Traded up to Draft Kansas wing Kelly Oubre 15th overall

The Wizards traded some second rounders to move up four spots and draft a talented project that could develop into a tremendous fit with their core. Oubre is an excellent physical specimen with explosiveness in every direction and a 7-2 wingspan. He isn't devoid of skill either, Oubre shoots well and can attack in line drives. Barring a flame-out, Oubre should develop into at least a very good 3-and-D guy with the chance for more as he learns the game, develops a mid-range game and gets a little more wiggle with his drives. It may take a year or two, but Oubre could really be a great fit with John Wall: spacing the floor, running in transition, and switching defensively. He might not be ready for a big role from day one, but if the Wizards are patient, the might have very valuable contributor.

Drafted Iowa forward Aaron White 49th overall

White is another potentially excellent fit with the Wizards who has a good chance to make the roster and even get some playing time eventually. White's best attributes are running the floor and finishing at the rim, but Jan Vesely he is not. White shot 36% from three last season (albiet on a limited number of attempts) and 82% from the line, hinting at some stretch-four potential. It's not hard to see how a power forward that is great in transition and can shoot fits with the Wizards. Defense is more of a question, but White moves well and could be solid defending perimeter based bigs, but might struggle against physical post players.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Milwaukee Bucks

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Michael Carter-Williams/Greivis Vasquez/Tyler Ennis

SG: Khris Middleton/O.J. Mayo/Jerryd Bayless/Rashad Vaughn

SF: Giannis Antetokounmpo/Damien Ingles

PF: Jabari Parker/Johnny O'Bryant III

C: Greg Monroe/Zaza Pachulia/John Henson/Miles Plumlee

What They Did On Draft Night 

Drafted UNLV shooting guard Rashad Vaughn 17th overall

Milwaukee was clearly looking towards next summer, when O.J. Mayo and Jerryd Bayless come off the books, with their selection of Vaughn, who does one thing well, and that is create shots for himself. Vaughn is just 18, so he can grow and develop so much more, but right now he is a questionable shot taker who is able to make said shots at an above-average rate. He isn't a great athlete so the worry is that those shots will be harder to create and to make once bigger, stronger, longer, more athletic defenses get the idea you aren't going to pass much. This is especially worrisome in Milwaukee, which has a ton of talent players, but not ones that are exactly bursting with shooting ability. That's going to close down the space even more. Vaughn has a lot of ability, but he is going to have to evolve into a better decision-maker and more team-oriented player in the NBA.

Traded the 46th pick and a conditional 2016 first round pick to Toronto for Greivis Vasquez

I like Vasquez as a player and he fills a need for the Bucks, but with just one year left on his deal, a first round pick is an overpay. The pick comes from the Clippers and will likely be in the bottom third of the draft, but a one year rental of a career backup with some significant flaws in his game is a lot. Milwaukee should have been able to get more, if they were patient. That aside, Vasquez is a good fit because he can really shoot (and Michael Carter-Williams really can't) while also distributing well and scoring with a crafty midrange game, just don't ask him to score at the rim. His biggest flaw, defense, will be somewhat masked by the Bucks system and versatile, rangy defenders. Honestly, unless Carter-Williams really takes a big step forward, I wouldn't be surprised if Vasquez was finishing most games by seasons end, if not starting them.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Boston Celtics

2015-16 Depth Chart
PG: Marcus Smart/Isaiah Thomas/Terry Rozier/Phil Pressey/Marcus Thornton
SG: Avery Bradley/R.J. Hunter/James Young/Chris Babb
SF: Jae Crowder/Evan Turner/Gerald Wallace
PF: Amir Johnson/Kelly Olynyk/Jonas Jerebko
C:  Tyler Zeller/Jared Sullinger/Jordan Mickey

2015 Free Agents
F Luigi Datome (RFA)
PF Brandon Bass

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Louisville point guard Terry Rozier 16th overall

I understand what Danny Ainge and Boston are doing, trying to collect assets and backup plans for those assets, but I think drafting Terry Rozier was a step too far, especially considering he wasn't remotely the best prospect available. Adding Rozier and later Marcus Thornton gives the Celtics six guards 6-4 or shorter, none of which is a real, true NBA level point guard. They are gritty, but half can't shoot and the other half can't distribute or finish. Rozier is a solid backup point guard prospect in certain situations because he can pressure the ball and push the tempo in transition. However, he is limited distributing, struggles shooting, and doesn't finish well, so he fits right in with Boston's backcourt. What he does well is good enough to make him a solid backup NBA player, but you want more than that from a mid-first round pick, especially when there were potentially above-average NBA starters available at the sixteenth pick. Luckily (and luck is what it was) Boston was able to get good value that also fit their needs later on in the draft.

Drafted Georgia State shooting guard R.J. Hunter 28th overall

The opposite of Rozier, Hunter is exactly what Boston's offense needs: shooting and size. Hunter's ability to make threes at a high rate will be crucial to Boston's offense, which relies on Smart and Isaiah Thomas' dribble drives and pick-and-roll with Tyler Zeller. Hunter's ability will spread out the defense, forcing them to avoid overcommiting with help defense or be burned from three. Hunter isn't one dimensional either, he can handle the ball a little, and even ran pick-and-roll some last season. Defense may be a little bit more of a project, Hunter needs to get stronger and improve his technique, but Boston has some strong perimeter defenders to help cover for him was he develops on that end.

Drafted LSU power forward Jordan Mickey 33rd overall

The Celtics were woeful protecting the rim last season, so clearly a priority had to be put on finding some shot-blockers. The Celtics signing Amir Johnson and drafting Jordan Mickey was a good start. Mickey is undersized but has long arms and very good bounce, he had good instincts and is very mobile, meaning in time he should be good guarding both the rim and on the perimeter. My one concern with Mickey's defensive profile is that I am not sure he can guard centers or bigger power forwards, he might be overwhelmed unless he gains more lower body strength, while alsobeing susceptible to just getting shot over the top of occasionally. Mickey's role in Boston is unclear due to all the so-so pieces they have, but he and Johnson are easily their best interior defenders and Mickey is good enough around the basket and facing up a little that he won't hurt the offense.

Drafted William & Mary point guard Marcus Thornton 45th overall

Another small guard for Boston, at least Marcus Thornton can shoot. He is a two guard in the body of a point guard that can really score when given the opportunity, but I am not sure what else he brings to the table. Due to the glut of guards on Boston's roster, Thornton faces an uphill battle making the team, but should thrive in the D-League and be available for a call up when one is needed.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Brooklyn Nets

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Deron Williams/Jarrett Jack/Steve Blake/Shane Larkin

SG: Joe Johnson/Markel Brown

SF: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson/Bojan Bogdanovic/Sergey Karasev/Earl Clark

PF: Thaddeus Young/Thomas Robinson/Chris McCullough

C: Brook Lopez/Cory Jefferson

2015 Free Agents

C Jerome Jordan (RFA)

PF Mirza Teletovic (RFA)

SG Alan Anderson (player option)

What They Did On Draft Night

Traded Mason Plumlee and the 41st pick to Portland for Steve Blake and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
The Nets began their offseason by clearing up their awkward frontcourt, where Mason Plumlee was probably too good to be a backup but couldn't play alongside Brook Lopez. Not long ago, Plumlee was basically untouchable in Brooklyn's eyes, but his value fell both due to a dip in play and a lack longterm role on the team. Despite being a twenty-third pick, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson has a really good chance of sticking in the league because he is such am excellent perimeter defender and does so many things well offensively, even if he can't shoot with range. Hollis-Jefferson landed in a perfect spot because Nets coach Lionel Hollins, who coached Tony Allen in Memphis to three All-Defense teams, has experience using great defensive players with limited range. Plus, Hollis-Jefferson is easier to hide offensively than Allen because he can play power forward. Assuming the Nets don't sign another wing, Brooklyn will have a promising young pair of wings that compliment each other well: Hollis-Jefferson and the more offensively-minded Bojan Bogdanovic.

Drafted Syracuse power forward Chris McCullough 29th overall
The Nets, who are picking 29th because Atlanta had the right to swap picks via the Joe Johnson trade, got a lottery talent in Chris McCullough, but also a project coming off an ACL tear. It's not hard to see how McCullough fits in the modern NBA: he's mobile, excellent blocking shots, with an intriguing offensive game. Provided his knee is 100%, McCullough's first job is improving his 199 pound frame (which will be easier when not rehabbing) so he has the strength to be a good on-ball defender to go with help defense. McCullough's best consistent offensive skill is smooth, slippery athletic ability diving to the basket in pick-and-roll but his jumpshot looks very good, it just needs become more consistent. I am surprised the Nets gave McCullough a guaranteed contract via the first round pick because of his knee injury, but if he pans out Brooklyn will have a valuable rotation piece that compliments their current frontcourt well because he can space the floor.

Drafted Argentinian wing Juan Pablo Vaulet 39th overall

A super draft sleeper, Juan Vaulet wasn't on many radars when he elected to remain in the draft, but a closer look at the 19 year-old revealed an athletic, physically gifted wing. Vaulet is most likely a stash, but with a potential shot at making the NBA because he has an NBA frame, long arms, and above-average athletic ability. Vaulet attacks with an excellent first step, and though he is still learning what to do when he beats his man, has shown playmaker potential. Vaulet's next step is improving his jumpshot, tightening his handle, and gaining strength. It might not be for another couple years, but Vaulet could definitely make the NBA.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Joe Johnson to Chicago for Joakim Noah, Pau Gasol, and Kirk Hinrich

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Oklahoma City Thunder

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Russell Westbrook/D.J. Augustin/Cameron Payne

SG: Anthony Morrow/Dion Waiters/

SF: Kevin Durant/Kyle Singler/Andre Roberson/Josh Huestis/Steve Novak

PF: Serge Ibaka/Nick Collison/Perry Jones III

C: Steven Adams/Mitch McGary/Dakari Johnson

2015 Free Agents

C Enes Kanter (RFA)

What They Did On Draft Night
Drafted Murray State point guard Cameron Payne 14th overall

The Thunder seem to have their sights on Cameron Payne since early in the process, and the got their guy. It makes sense since backup point guard was one of the few longterm needs they had, with D.J. Augustin set to become a free agent next summer. This is an ideal situation for Payne because there won't be any pressure on him to come in and be the guy at point guard, instead he'll have a role and be able to play off of the Thunder's stars. Payne fits well in Oklahoma City because he is a good spot-up shooter that can play off the ball when sharing the backcourt with Russell Westbrook, but is also able to take the reins as the lead guard with Westbrook on the bench. It is also good for Payne that he won't have to shoulder starters minutes any time soon, he needs to get stronger before that will be a good idea.

Drafted Kentucky center Dakari Johnson 48th overall

Due to the incredible amount of talent on the Thunder's roster, Dakari Johnson is not likely to see a single minute of action this season, but will play in the D-League the whole year. Johnson is an old school, low-post center that plays very much below the rim. Johnson rebounds well and has great size, but will likely struggle on both ends of the court due to his well below average athletic ability. Playing in the D-League will benefit Johnson because he can learn to use his size to compensate in a low pressure environment.

What To Do Next

The Thunder want to bring back Enes Kanter and Kyle Singler, but besides that their roster is full so there isn't much else they can do unless they look for a trade involving D.J. Augustin in order to clear the way for Payne. Some of the periphery young talent on the roster could also be packaged with a pic or one of the Euro players Oklahoma City has the rights to in order to upgrade the shooting guard spot or clear room for a signing.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

D.J. Augustin to Washington for a second round pick

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Phoenix Suns

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Eric Bledsoe/Archie Goodwin

SG: Brandon Knight/Devin Booker/Jerel McNeal

SF: P.J. Tucker/T.J. Warren/Danny Granger

PF: Markieff Morris

C: Tyson Chandler/Alex Len

2015 Free Agents

G Brandon Knight (RFA)

C Earl Barron

SG Gerald Green

SG Marcus Thornton

C Brandan Wright

What They Did On Draft Night
Drafted Kentucky shooting guard Devin Booker 13th overall

Phoenix was in the top third in 3-point field goal attempts last season, but the bottom third in 3-point percentage, so it isn't hard to see how an excellent three-point shooter fits in their offense. This is an ideal situation for Booker also, because Brandon Knight and Eric Bledsoe will handle almost all of the play-making duties, so the pressure won't be on him to be a shot-creator before he is ready. Booker is the youngest player in the draft, just 18, so there is some definite physical projection left in his body. Early on, Booker can be used at a spot-up shooter and work off of screens until his ball-handling ability increases to the point he can create a little more offense for himself. Booker is a very smart player that should learn the Suns system quickly and keep the ball moving when a shot isn't there.

What To Do Next?

The Suns have some cap space, so there room for a splash. They're meeting with LaMarcus Aldridge so that is obviously priority number one. There are contingency options if that doesn't work out. If Tobias Harris is done in Orlando, he could be a solution at both forward spots and would really flourish in a wide open offense. David West wouldn't be a huge splash, but he would help Phoenix short term, while benefiting himself with the Suns excellent training staff. A trade is also a possibility, targeting Danilo Gallinari perhaps.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Markieff Morris to Denver for Gallinari

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Review: Utah Jazz

2015-16 Depth Chart 

PG: Dante Exum/Trey Burke/Bryce Cotten

SG: Alec Burks/Rodney Hood/Olivier Hanlan

SF: Gordon Heyward/Elijah Millsap/Chris Johnson

PF: Derrick Favors/Trevor Booker/Grant Jerrett

C: Rudy Gobert/Trey Lyles/Jack Cooley

2015 Free Agents

SG Joe Ingles (RFA)

F Jeremy Evans

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Kentucky power forward Trey Lyles 11th overall

Considering how much depth and talent Utah has on its roster, taking a shot on a developmental player like Trey Lyes make sense. Lyles isn't a raw player at all, he just needs some time to iron-out the inconsistencies in his game, time he should be able to get in Utah. The Jazz said they envision Lyles as a stretch-four, which is ironic considering right now he is most effective posting-up, moving off the ball, and diving to the basket. Shooting is the lynchpin to Lyles game, his stroke looks very good, but the results were poor during his one season at Kentucky. In high school he shot very well up to 17-feet, but there is no guarantee that the shot develops, leaving the Jazz with a crafty but limited scorer without the athleticism to be an above-average defender. That's not a great return from a lottery pick. However, Utah has done well with all their young players in recent years and Lyles stroke is solid.

Drafted Boston College combo guard Olivier Hanlan 42nd overall

The Jazz went for a more ready-to-contribute option in the second round, drafting a combo guard that should be able to provide quality depth backing up both guard spots. Hanlan is a well-rounded, score-first offensive player that can distribute well enough to occasionally pass as a point guard. Utah's offense frequently plays through Gordon Heyward uses a lot of ball-movement, so Hanlan can fit in a point guard despite not being a pure distributor. Hanlan's ability to both drive and shoot is a nice option to have off the bench, someone who can get hot and carry a second unit every once in a while without completely being a gunner.

What To Do Next?

Utah probably has the deepest roster of promising young talent in the NBA, so there isn't a ton they really need to do this offseason. One area of need is a back-up small forward, preferably one that can shoot. Mike Dunleavy is still a great shooter and would inject a little age and experience to a very young core. Marco Belinelli would also be an ice fit with what Utah wants to do, as would Jared Dudley, who could also play some stretch-four.

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

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

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

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

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

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

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

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

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Preview: Dallas Mavericks

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Devin Harris

SG: ???

SF: Chandler Parsons

PF: Dirk Nowitzki/Dwight Powell

C: ???

2015 Free Agents

C Bernard James (RFA)

F Al-Farouq Aminu (player option)

G J.J. Barea 

C Tyson Chandler

G Monta Ellis (player option)

PG Raymond Felton (player option)

SF Richard Jefferson

PG Rajon Rondo

C Greg Smith

PF Amar'e Stoudemire

F Charlie Villanueva

2015 Draft Picks

1-21

2-22(52)

Team Needs

With eleven free agents, many who will not return, the Mavericks are once again in position to remake their roster this offseason, leaving their team needs up in the air. The Mavericks typically don't play rookies much, but this season they might have to. Even if they don't, it would make sense to target someone they think can be worth more than where they are drafted and develop them for a year or two to be part of the Mavericks post-Dirk rebuild. Point guard is a clear spot that could be upgraded, though Rick Carlisle has been hard on point guards of the past, finding a young, smart lead guard to be molded and learn the system while a stop-gap veteran fills in for a year or two. 

Potential Fits

The point guard that seemed to "get" playing for Carlise, was Jameer Nelson and there are two point guards in this draft that are similar to Nelson in that they don't overwhelm with athletic ability but are heady players with good understanding the nuances of the game. Duke's Tyus Jones and Murray State's Cameron Payne could both be starting quality players if given a year to absorb what Dallas wants to do. Both can make outside shots and would be excellent running the Maverick pick-and-roll/pop offense. If neither are available or if Dallas doesn't want to develop a young point gaurd, then the frontcourt should be their next area of concern. UNLV Christian Wood, Kentucky's Trey Lyles, UCLA's Kevon Looney, and Chris McCullough of Syracuse all have potential to eventually replace at least a tiny part of what Dirk's shooting gives their offense. In the second round, a shooter would be nice for depth as would a solid, reliable fifth big man type. Due to the fact that Dallas currently doesn't have an shooting guards on their roster, R.J. Hunter of Georgia State should be in consideration. His ability to shoot should make him useful off of the bench.

Mock Draft

21. Cameron Payne, PG, Murray State

52. Dakari Johnson, C, Kentucky

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech

2015 Draft Preview: Atlanta Hawks

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Jeff Teague/Dennis Schroder/Shelvin Mack

SG: Kyle Korver/Kent Bazemore/John Jenkins

SF: Thabo Sefolosha/Austin Daye

PF: Mike Scott

C: Al Horford/Mike Muscala

2015 Free Agents

C Pero Antic (RFA)

PF Elton Brand

SF DeMarre Carroll

SG John Jenkins

PF Paul Millsap

2015 Draft Picks

1-15 via Brooklyn

2-20(50) via Toronto

2-29(59)

Team Needs
The biggest areas of need will be created if either Paul Millsap or DeMarre Carroll leave in free agency. I would say the former is very unlikely, with the latter fairly likely. Under that assumption, Atlanta will be looking for a wing to take Carroll's role as defensive stopper/cutter/shooter. Even if Millsap returns, Atlanta is still thin in the frontcourt and could look in that direction if one of the better big men fell into their laps. Another issue for Atlanta is that when Kyle Korver was off the court or in a slump, their offense suffered. That is not to say that they could find a shooter like him, as historic great, but some approximation of a superior outside threat would be a serious boon to Atlanta's offense.

Potential Fits
I think if Devin Booker of Kentucky or Arkansas' Bobby Portis falls to them, they would be all over it. Booker for his shooting and Portis for his diverse skills for a big man. If they are off the board, Atlanta could look at UCLA forward Kevon Looney, who has tremendous length and a developing jumpshot, but is also a bit of a project. R.J. Hunter of Georgia State is an excellent shooter with the vision and passing to fit in Atlanta's ball-movement system, but would be more of a Korver backup than a Carroll replacement. The best replacement the Hawks are going to find to replace his defense and cutting ability is Arizona's Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. He is probably a better defender than Carroll and excels making smart cuts to the basket. The shooting is another matter, but Atlanta seems to have been able to get the most out their shooters and have other options that can make Hollis-Jefferson work. Wisconsin's Sam Dekker is another interesting option because he could theoretically fill two roles, and Carroll's replacement and Millsap insurance... if his jumpshot comes along and he can defend either wings and bigs, if not both.

Mock Draft

15. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, SF, Arizona

50. Josh Richardson, SG, Tennessee

59. Alan Williams, C, UC-Santa Barbara

Follow me on Twitter @double_tech