Current Roster
PG: Lonzo Ball
SG: Josh Hart/Jordan Clarkson
SF: Brandon Ingram/Luol Deng/Corey Brewer
PF: Julius Randle/Larry Nance Jr./Kyle Kuzma
C: Brook Lopez/Ivica Zubac/Tarik Black/Thomas Bryant
2017 Free Agents
Restricted
G Nick Young
G Tyler Ennis
F Thomas Robinson
F Metta World Peace
Unrestricted
G David Nbawa
Who They Drafted
1-2 Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA
1-27 Kyle Kuzma, PF Utah
1-30 Josh Hart, SG Villanova
2-42 Thomas Bryant
The Lakers had a big draft, taking three first round picks and one second rounder. Their first pick was the lock of all locks even though they tried to pretend otherwise, taking Lonzo Ball to be their point guard of the future. After trading D'Angelo Russell, the Lakers are handing the keys completely to Ball, he'll be the guy with the ball in his hands leading the offense, at least until Paul George and LeBron get there... Ball's tremendous passing ability and unselfish nature will do wonders for the rest of the Lakers players, both young and old and set a course for how the Lakers will play. They'll try to fast break as much as possible, giving Ball every opportunity to utilize all of his lethal transition abilities. Ball is equally effective off the ball in transition, which will work well with Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle, who can rip and run. When in half court, Ball isn't a dynamic pick-and-roll player or penetrater so the Lakers will want to utilize a lot of ball and player movement in order to create good looks. Their presumed starting lineup of Ball, Hart, Ingram, Randle, and Brook Lopez are all ball movers and can do things off the ball, so it will be up to Luke Walton to develop an offense that lets them move and pass. Defensively, Ball isn't there yet and may long term be better off guarding bigger players than point guards, simply because he is bigger and stronger as opposed to quick laterally.
Kyle Kuzma, their second first rounder, fits into their new offensive direction as well. With the size and reach of a power forward, Kuzma is able to handle the ball in transition and is a good passer for his position, though not a dynamic creator or preternatural passer. For Kuzma to really work in the NBA, his jumper will need to continue to improve. He looks like he could be a good shooter, based on form, but the results haven't really been there yet, shooting 30% on 169 career college three-pointers. If the jumper works, his role on offense is there, if it doesn't work then he will be a limited offensive player who provides little of defense due to a lack of physicality, athleticism and production. The upside is decent considering his passing and ball-handling would really work well if he can shoot, but the downside is probably not an NBA player.
The last of the Lakers three draft picks, Josh Hart, was one of the most accomplished players in the nation, winning a National Title and landing on the first team All-America. Again, like Kuzma, Hart works with the offense the Lakers are looking to create because he is able to handle the ball and pass, as well as shoot the ball with some consistency, though perhaps he is not as high level of a shooter as has been portrayed. Still, he should be at least average if not better from range. Where Hart stands out over Kuzma is his defense. Again, while perhaps not the lockdown guy his rep may suggest, no one tries harder defensively than Hart, and what he lacks in physical tools (which are good, not spectacular) he makes up with effort and toughness, traits that will allow him to defend bigger players on switches, which again fits really nicely next to Lonzo Ball.
In the second round, the Lakers drafted more of a project in big man Thomas Bryant. Bryant has a truly elite centers frame, standing a shade under 6-11 at 248, with a massive 7-6 wingspan and 9-4+ standing reach, both numbers that are in the upper echelon for their position. Offensively, despite his size, Bryant's most translatable skill is his jumper, which isn't all the way there yet but should develop into a weapon. He lacks any go-to offensive moves and has struggled at times to finish due to his lack of vertical explosiveness. His size suggests a post player, though that hasn't materialized quite yet with any level of natural fluidity. Bryant has done well on the offensive glass not just because of his size but because he really gives effort. On the defensive glass, he has not been nearly as effective and his overall rebounding % is poor. Likewise, Bryant's size is a deterrent at the rim, even if he can't jump, but his lateral quickness is so bad that any kind of pick-and-roll is ruinous. All together, Bryant has some things to like but needs to improve in several areas to really work as an NBA player. Fortunately, the Lakers have no need for him in the short term so he'll be able to work in the G-League and get minutes there.
What They Need Going Forward
Everything the Lakers do is with the summer of 2018 in mind, as the try to bring both LeBron James and Paul George together, therefore they will likely avoid any long term contracts and likely try to move what veterans they have, such as Luol Deng. Even younger players that might be overpaid (Jordan Clarkson) or are about to come off their rookie deals (Julius Randle) could be moved as they clear room for stars. In the short term, the Lakers will likely try to bring back Tyler Ennis to back up Ball but will likely leave the rest of their roster to minimum, short term signs.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Showing posts with label Lakers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lakers. Show all posts
Monday, June 26, 2017
Friday, June 23, 2017
2017 NBA Draft: Quick First Round Overview
01. Philadelphia 76ers (from Boston): Markelle Fultz, PG Washington
The Sixers traded up for Fultz so obviously that is the pick they made. Fultz is the top prospect in the draft and one of the best point guard prospects to come around in a couple years. Fultz, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid are the Sixers core moving forward for the next decade.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA
Any idea that the Lakers were drafting anyone but Lonzo Ball was just noise trying to generate a trade down. Ball fits well with the current Lakers roster, especially now that D'Angelo Russell has been traded.
03. Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum, SF/PF Duke
Unless they make a trade with this pick or either Jaylen Brown or Jae Crowder, it is hard not to see significant overlap with these players, all combo forwards that aren't elite shooters or tremendous rebounders. The way the Celtics roster is built, they still have the same glaring weaknesses as last year and haven't really added a new dimension to their team. Obviously, there could be some big deals coming but it is frustrating that they haven't done more with the assets they have.
04. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SF Kansas
The Suns, even when they were slotted to pick second, seem to have been locked in on Josh Jackson throughout the process and it is not hard to see why. Jackson fills the exact role the Suns need as a high motor defensive player that is comfortable filling a role on offense. However, as has been repeated ad nauseam, Jackson's jumpshot needs to be consistent or else he will always be an offensive liability in some sense.
05. Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky
The Kings wanted Fox and made no secret of it, however they thankfully didn't try to trade up for him and still got their man. Fox has some issues to iron out, but as far as a talent and character, this is the kind of injection that the Kings have needed. Fox, and Buddy Hield as well, are notoriously hard workers and even if they don't become stars the culture shift in Sacramento is almost just as important.
06. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State
While I am sure many will question the fit between Jonathan Isaac and Aaron Gordon but 1) not sure why a guy who can probably play three positions and guard 4 or 5 positions + shoot wouldn't fit with another guy that can guard multiple positions, and 2) If you've been drafting in the top ten for years, don't bother drafting for fit, draft the best players and, with the understandable exception of Dennis Smith, the Magic did that.
07. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota): Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona
Despite making a really bad trade, sending Jimmy Butler and #16 to the Timberwolves for this pick, Kris Dunn, and Zach LaVine, the Bulls made a quite obvious selection, filling their desperate need for shooting with one of, if not the best in the draft. Defensive issues will be obvious with Markkanen and Robin Lopez, however offensively Markkanen will open up so much for them offensively because he is such a threat from the outside.
08. New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG/SG Strasbourg
Long live the triangle. Frank Ntilikina is a big guard that can shoot and therefore the prototypical triangle point guard. This is actually a nice fit for Ntilikina, who will have his strengths maximized and his weaknesses minimized, as he isn't a true lead guard yet. For the Knicks, Dennis Smith was a clearly better prospect, but he doesn't fit as well in the vaunted triangle. I really like Ntilikina but New York may be regretting passing on Dennis Smith down the line.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith, PG North Carolina State
This is a perfect marriage of player and organization. Smith will have a chance to shine attacking the rim with all the space pick-and-pop with Dirk Nowitzki will give him, while Rick Carlisle will help Smith's effort issues. I love it when teams who don't frequently draft in the top ten swing for the fences and go after the star potential that is not available where they usually draft. This is exactly what the Mavericks did.
10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Sacramento): Zach Collins, PF/C Gonzaga
Collins made a ton of sense for the Trail Blazers at #15, a sentiment they apparently agreed with and didn't want to miss out on, as they traded the #15 and #20 to move up and draft him. Jusef Nurkic turned the Blazers season around last year, but he was unavailable, be it on the bench or injured, they suffered. Zach Collins is a different type of player than Nurkic, but he is a quality player and fits well with the rest of the roster because he can protect the rim (and help their guards on defense) and shoot from the outside (and help their guards on offense).
11. Charlotte Hornets: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky
This has to be the best case scenario for the Hornets, who need scorers from the guard position and that is what Monk does best. With Kemba Walker and Nic Batum in the backcourt already, Monk can start out as a sixth man that heats up off the bench and give the Hornets some punch that they have sorely needed. Also, Hornet's coach Steve Clifford is tremendous at making his defense work around specific players, which will help mask Monk's defensive deficiencies.
12. Detroit Pistons: Luke Kennard, SG Duke
This was another pick that was projected by many because it made complete sense. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a restricted free agent likely to be in high demand and his backups are unproven and/or suspended to start next season. Kennard is an excellent shooter and high IQ player that can handle the ball and pass some, however his defense will need to improve in order to play starters minutes for Stan Van Gundy. One interesting point: the Pistons haven't been happy with Reggie Jackson and some think Kennard can play on the ball, might he be their point guard of the future?
13. Utah Jazz (from Denver): Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville
The Jazz traded Trey Lyles and the 24th pick to move up for this selection. Mitchell is a combo guard with elite length (6-10 wingspan) and athletic ability (40.5-inch vertical) to go with an improved outside stroke and a dribble-drive attacking mindset. What position the Jazz are looking for Mitchell to play will be interesting, as they don't require as much from their point guards at other teams do, but as long as George Hill re-signs, Mitchell looks like a sixth man type that can play pressure defense and provide some scoring punch.
14. Miami Heat: Edrice "Bam" Adebayo, PF/C Kentucky
A surprise to many, the Heat drafted Adebayo in order to add depth to their frontcourt that they have mostly patched together with journeymen. Adebayo has more skill than he showed at Kentucky, but for all his physical gifts he had poor rebounding and defensive numbers, though he is a very good switcher and can finish lobs with ease. I just don't know what he brings to the Heat that they don't already have in Hassan Whiteside and Willie Reed.
15. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina
The Kings are at it again. And by at it again I mean making smart moves. One way to help your young point guard with shooting issues? Surround him with smart players that can shoot. Justin Jackson can do both of those things after making himself into a very good shooter to go with his intelligence moving off the ball.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Chicago): Justin Patton, C Creighton
The Timberwolves got this pick in their robbery, I mean trade, with the Chicago Bulls and with it, they added big man depth. However, I don't really understand the rational behind this pick, as I see both Patton, Karl Towns, and Gorgui Dieng all as straight centers (though the Timberwolves seem to disagree) and shooting seems like a pretty big need now that they have swapped out Zach LaVine for Jimmy Butler. Patton has potential, but even if he reaches that potential it won't be very impactful if he can't find the floor.
17. Milwaukee Bucks: DJ Wilson, PF Michigan
With Jabari Parker's short term future determined (missing at least several months of the season) and his long term future questionable (two ACL tears) it makes alot of sense for the Bucks to add a versatile offensive player like DJ Wilson. Wilson is a nice balance of Milwaukee's other bigs, combining the length John Henson with the skill of Mirza Teletovic. Wilson should be better than both.
18. Indiana Pacers: TJ Leaf, PF UCLA
Skipping over the Pacers/white guy jokes, Indiana started their pre-post-Paul George rebuild by taking TJ Leaf. Leaf slots in as a rotational big man who offer skill off the bench. I don't think he will anything better than a liability defensively, but a rim protector like Myles Turner is the kind of guy you'd want him to play next to. I don't think the moves the needle for the Pacers at all.
19. Atlanta Hawks: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest
After trading Dwight Howard and facing the very real possibility of Paul Millsap moving on, it seemed like a lock that they would draft a big man in this spot. However, they lucked out that a legit lottery-type talent in John Collins fell to them. Collins will contribute right away as an energy, big man off the bench and could develop into a starter down the line if Hawks University goes to work on his jumper and defense.
20. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Harry Giles, PF/C Duke
This is an interesting pick, as a year ago if someone told you that Harry Giles would be drafted 20th overall, it would be considered one of the biggest steals in draft history. However, after yet another knee injury and a disappointing season at Duke, it is hard not to be a little disappointed with this pick for the Kings, especially with Jarrett Allen still available. However, the Kings need to take huge swings and this is the biggest swing they could take, and it could pay off.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Terrence Ferguson, SG/SF Adelaide
This is another great fit of player and team. The Thunder have done an excellent job developing players and will work with Ferguson to grow his game, while on the other hand Ferguson gives the Thunder a player who can both defend and shoot. They have good defenders and they have shooters, but none that can really do both.
22. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Jarrett Allen, C Texas
Despite not having a lottery pick two years in a row, the Nets have gotten two lottery talents that both fell, likely for injury reasons. Jarrett Allen has the frame of an elite defensive center and grew a lot of the course of his time at Texas, including showing off decent touch on his jumper. After just trading Brook Lopez, the Nets needed a center of the future and they got it in Allen.
23. Toronto Raptors (from LA Clippers): OG Anunoby, SF/PF Indiana
Anunoby, who likely fell due to his knee injury, is exactly what the Raptors have needed for years: a big wing that can defend the types of bruisers that have killed them in the past (see: LeBron James, Paul Pierce). Anunoby has a ways to go on offense, but his worst case scenario in Luc Mbah a Moute, which is pretty good for the number 23 pick.
24. Denver Nuggets (from Utah): Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse
The Nuggets got this pick and Trey Lyles for the #13 pick and then drafted.... Another Trey Lyles? I like Lydon in a vacuum, he can really shoot and block shots, though he is obviously limited in some ways. However, with Lyles, Lydon, and Juancho Hernangomez on the roster, I don't really see the point, they all do similar things (though I think Hernangomez is a step way above them) not to mention Kenneth Faried is still on this team.
25. Philadelphia 76ers (from Orlando): Anzejs Pasecniks, Gran Canaria
The Sixers used some of their significant draft capital to move back into the first round to select the slipping Pasecniks, who they will presumably stash overseas as he works on his game. I like this pick because it shows that the Sixers are still future thinking even as they gear up to be more competitive next season.
26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Caleb Swanigan, C Purdue
This is another one I don't get. I don't think Caleb Swanigan can play anything but center, and with Jusef Nurkic and Zach Collins on the roster, when does he play? Also, his lack of mobility will hurt their already questionable defense. Swanigan can make it in the NBA but I don't see the fit here.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn): Kyle Kuzma, PF Utah
Kuzma was a guy that the Lakers really liked and it is easy to see why, as shooting from the 4 spot is a big need for them and that is what Kuzma does (at least potentially, the results aren't always there), as well as passing and rebounding well. He isn't going to do anything for their terrible defense though.
28. Utah Jazz (from LA Lakers): Tony Bradley, C North Carolina
Bradley brings a different dimension from the other backup bigs on the Jazz roster, he is an excellent rebounder who plays below the rim but may have more skill than he showed at UNC. Very similar to a Jarnell Stokes-type player.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Derrick White, PG/SG Colorado
The Spurs once again get great value with Derrick White, who's experienced game and nice jumper will compliment the more mercurial Dejounte Murray very well in San Antonio's young backcourt.
30. Los Angeles Lakers (from Utah): Josh Hart, SG Villanova
This is a solid move by the Lakers, who need smart, defensive minded players on their roster. Hart is a solid all-around offensive player and tough defender who makes up what he lack in upside with ready-to-go talent.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
The Sixers traded up for Fultz so obviously that is the pick they made. Fultz is the top prospect in the draft and one of the best point guard prospects to come around in a couple years. Fultz, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid are the Sixers core moving forward for the next decade.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA
Any idea that the Lakers were drafting anyone but Lonzo Ball was just noise trying to generate a trade down. Ball fits well with the current Lakers roster, especially now that D'Angelo Russell has been traded.
03. Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum, SF/PF Duke
Unless they make a trade with this pick or either Jaylen Brown or Jae Crowder, it is hard not to see significant overlap with these players, all combo forwards that aren't elite shooters or tremendous rebounders. The way the Celtics roster is built, they still have the same glaring weaknesses as last year and haven't really added a new dimension to their team. Obviously, there could be some big deals coming but it is frustrating that they haven't done more with the assets they have.
04. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SF Kansas
The Suns, even when they were slotted to pick second, seem to have been locked in on Josh Jackson throughout the process and it is not hard to see why. Jackson fills the exact role the Suns need as a high motor defensive player that is comfortable filling a role on offense. However, as has been repeated ad nauseam, Jackson's jumpshot needs to be consistent or else he will always be an offensive liability in some sense.
05. Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky
The Kings wanted Fox and made no secret of it, however they thankfully didn't try to trade up for him and still got their man. Fox has some issues to iron out, but as far as a talent and character, this is the kind of injection that the Kings have needed. Fox, and Buddy Hield as well, are notoriously hard workers and even if they don't become stars the culture shift in Sacramento is almost just as important.
06. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State
While I am sure many will question the fit between Jonathan Isaac and Aaron Gordon but 1) not sure why a guy who can probably play three positions and guard 4 or 5 positions + shoot wouldn't fit with another guy that can guard multiple positions, and 2) If you've been drafting in the top ten for years, don't bother drafting for fit, draft the best players and, with the understandable exception of Dennis Smith, the Magic did that.
07. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota): Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona
Despite making a really bad trade, sending Jimmy Butler and #16 to the Timberwolves for this pick, Kris Dunn, and Zach LaVine, the Bulls made a quite obvious selection, filling their desperate need for shooting with one of, if not the best in the draft. Defensive issues will be obvious with Markkanen and Robin Lopez, however offensively Markkanen will open up so much for them offensively because he is such a threat from the outside.
08. New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG/SG Strasbourg
Long live the triangle. Frank Ntilikina is a big guard that can shoot and therefore the prototypical triangle point guard. This is actually a nice fit for Ntilikina, who will have his strengths maximized and his weaknesses minimized, as he isn't a true lead guard yet. For the Knicks, Dennis Smith was a clearly better prospect, but he doesn't fit as well in the vaunted triangle. I really like Ntilikina but New York may be regretting passing on Dennis Smith down the line.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith, PG North Carolina State
This is a perfect marriage of player and organization. Smith will have a chance to shine attacking the rim with all the space pick-and-pop with Dirk Nowitzki will give him, while Rick Carlisle will help Smith's effort issues. I love it when teams who don't frequently draft in the top ten swing for the fences and go after the star potential that is not available where they usually draft. This is exactly what the Mavericks did.
10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Sacramento): Zach Collins, PF/C Gonzaga
Collins made a ton of sense for the Trail Blazers at #15, a sentiment they apparently agreed with and didn't want to miss out on, as they traded the #15 and #20 to move up and draft him. Jusef Nurkic turned the Blazers season around last year, but he was unavailable, be it on the bench or injured, they suffered. Zach Collins is a different type of player than Nurkic, but he is a quality player and fits well with the rest of the roster because he can protect the rim (and help their guards on defense) and shoot from the outside (and help their guards on offense).
11. Charlotte Hornets: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky
This has to be the best case scenario for the Hornets, who need scorers from the guard position and that is what Monk does best. With Kemba Walker and Nic Batum in the backcourt already, Monk can start out as a sixth man that heats up off the bench and give the Hornets some punch that they have sorely needed. Also, Hornet's coach Steve Clifford is tremendous at making his defense work around specific players, which will help mask Monk's defensive deficiencies.
12. Detroit Pistons: Luke Kennard, SG Duke
This was another pick that was projected by many because it made complete sense. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a restricted free agent likely to be in high demand and his backups are unproven and/or suspended to start next season. Kennard is an excellent shooter and high IQ player that can handle the ball and pass some, however his defense will need to improve in order to play starters minutes for Stan Van Gundy. One interesting point: the Pistons haven't been happy with Reggie Jackson and some think Kennard can play on the ball, might he be their point guard of the future?
13. Utah Jazz (from Denver): Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville
The Jazz traded Trey Lyles and the 24th pick to move up for this selection. Mitchell is a combo guard with elite length (6-10 wingspan) and athletic ability (40.5-inch vertical) to go with an improved outside stroke and a dribble-drive attacking mindset. What position the Jazz are looking for Mitchell to play will be interesting, as they don't require as much from their point guards at other teams do, but as long as George Hill re-signs, Mitchell looks like a sixth man type that can play pressure defense and provide some scoring punch.
14. Miami Heat: Edrice "Bam" Adebayo, PF/C Kentucky
A surprise to many, the Heat drafted Adebayo in order to add depth to their frontcourt that they have mostly patched together with journeymen. Adebayo has more skill than he showed at Kentucky, but for all his physical gifts he had poor rebounding and defensive numbers, though he is a very good switcher and can finish lobs with ease. I just don't know what he brings to the Heat that they don't already have in Hassan Whiteside and Willie Reed.
15. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina
The Kings are at it again. And by at it again I mean making smart moves. One way to help your young point guard with shooting issues? Surround him with smart players that can shoot. Justin Jackson can do both of those things after making himself into a very good shooter to go with his intelligence moving off the ball.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Chicago): Justin Patton, C Creighton
The Timberwolves got this pick in their robbery, I mean trade, with the Chicago Bulls and with it, they added big man depth. However, I don't really understand the rational behind this pick, as I see both Patton, Karl Towns, and Gorgui Dieng all as straight centers (though the Timberwolves seem to disagree) and shooting seems like a pretty big need now that they have swapped out Zach LaVine for Jimmy Butler. Patton has potential, but even if he reaches that potential it won't be very impactful if he can't find the floor.
17. Milwaukee Bucks: DJ Wilson, PF Michigan
With Jabari Parker's short term future determined (missing at least several months of the season) and his long term future questionable (two ACL tears) it makes alot of sense for the Bucks to add a versatile offensive player like DJ Wilson. Wilson is a nice balance of Milwaukee's other bigs, combining the length John Henson with the skill of Mirza Teletovic. Wilson should be better than both.
18. Indiana Pacers: TJ Leaf, PF UCLA
Skipping over the Pacers/white guy jokes, Indiana started their pre-post-Paul George rebuild by taking TJ Leaf. Leaf slots in as a rotational big man who offer skill off the bench. I don't think he will anything better than a liability defensively, but a rim protector like Myles Turner is the kind of guy you'd want him to play next to. I don't think the moves the needle for the Pacers at all.
19. Atlanta Hawks: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest
After trading Dwight Howard and facing the very real possibility of Paul Millsap moving on, it seemed like a lock that they would draft a big man in this spot. However, they lucked out that a legit lottery-type talent in John Collins fell to them. Collins will contribute right away as an energy, big man off the bench and could develop into a starter down the line if Hawks University goes to work on his jumper and defense.
20. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Harry Giles, PF/C Duke
This is an interesting pick, as a year ago if someone told you that Harry Giles would be drafted 20th overall, it would be considered one of the biggest steals in draft history. However, after yet another knee injury and a disappointing season at Duke, it is hard not to be a little disappointed with this pick for the Kings, especially with Jarrett Allen still available. However, the Kings need to take huge swings and this is the biggest swing they could take, and it could pay off.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Terrence Ferguson, SG/SF Adelaide
This is another great fit of player and team. The Thunder have done an excellent job developing players and will work with Ferguson to grow his game, while on the other hand Ferguson gives the Thunder a player who can both defend and shoot. They have good defenders and they have shooters, but none that can really do both.
22. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Jarrett Allen, C Texas
Despite not having a lottery pick two years in a row, the Nets have gotten two lottery talents that both fell, likely for injury reasons. Jarrett Allen has the frame of an elite defensive center and grew a lot of the course of his time at Texas, including showing off decent touch on his jumper. After just trading Brook Lopez, the Nets needed a center of the future and they got it in Allen.
23. Toronto Raptors (from LA Clippers): OG Anunoby, SF/PF Indiana
Anunoby, who likely fell due to his knee injury, is exactly what the Raptors have needed for years: a big wing that can defend the types of bruisers that have killed them in the past (see: LeBron James, Paul Pierce). Anunoby has a ways to go on offense, but his worst case scenario in Luc Mbah a Moute, which is pretty good for the number 23 pick.
24. Denver Nuggets (from Utah): Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse
The Nuggets got this pick and Trey Lyles for the #13 pick and then drafted.... Another Trey Lyles? I like Lydon in a vacuum, he can really shoot and block shots, though he is obviously limited in some ways. However, with Lyles, Lydon, and Juancho Hernangomez on the roster, I don't really see the point, they all do similar things (though I think Hernangomez is a step way above them) not to mention Kenneth Faried is still on this team.
25. Philadelphia 76ers (from Orlando): Anzejs Pasecniks, Gran Canaria
The Sixers used some of their significant draft capital to move back into the first round to select the slipping Pasecniks, who they will presumably stash overseas as he works on his game. I like this pick because it shows that the Sixers are still future thinking even as they gear up to be more competitive next season.
26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Caleb Swanigan, C Purdue
This is another one I don't get. I don't think Caleb Swanigan can play anything but center, and with Jusef Nurkic and Zach Collins on the roster, when does he play? Also, his lack of mobility will hurt their already questionable defense. Swanigan can make it in the NBA but I don't see the fit here.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn): Kyle Kuzma, PF Utah
Kuzma was a guy that the Lakers really liked and it is easy to see why, as shooting from the 4 spot is a big need for them and that is what Kuzma does (at least potentially, the results aren't always there), as well as passing and rebounding well. He isn't going to do anything for their terrible defense though.
28. Utah Jazz (from LA Lakers): Tony Bradley, C North Carolina
Bradley brings a different dimension from the other backup bigs on the Jazz roster, he is an excellent rebounder who plays below the rim but may have more skill than he showed at UNC. Very similar to a Jarnell Stokes-type player.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Derrick White, PG/SG Colorado
The Spurs once again get great value with Derrick White, who's experienced game and nice jumper will compliment the more mercurial Dejounte Murray very well in San Antonio's young backcourt.
30. Los Angeles Lakers (from Utah): Josh Hart, SG Villanova
This is a solid move by the Lakers, who need smart, defensive minded players on their roster. Hart is a solid all-around offensive player and tough defender who makes up what he lack in upside with ready-to-go talent.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
2017 NBA Mock Draft: Final Edition (Until More Trades)
01. Philadelphia 76ers (from Boston): Markelle Fultz, PG Washington (6-4, 195) Age: 19
In a stunning move the likes of which always gets discussed on blogs but never actually happens, the Celtics dealt the top over the pick for #3 and either the Lakers pick next year or the Kings pick after that. For the Sixers, the give up a valuable asset for an even more valuable one, plus their pick this year. Fultz is the top talent in this draft and an ideal fit for their roster. Philadelphia's core of Fultz, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid is certainly one of the best and most exciting in the league.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA (6-6, 190) Age: 19
The Lakers, who clearly have been fishing for more picks via a trade up by another team, like the Kings, are still highly likely to draft Lonzo Ball, the local kid and "star" type that they crave above all else. Jackson and Fox are the other rumored possibilities but I see that as just smoke in hopes of the Kings getting desperate.
03. Boston Celtics (from Philadelphia): Jayson Tatum, SF/PF Duke (6-8, 205) Age: 19
The Celtics, having traded the first overall pick, will now have a plethora of options before them, but the only realistic ones in my mind are the three wings, Jackson, Tatum, and Isaac. Jackson is an obviously Celtics-type draft pick, very similar to Marcus Smart and Justise Winslow, who they tried to acquire on his draft night, however he has thus far refused to work out for them. Tatum is much more skill offensively than Jackson and might make their team better overall as a second offensive banana. Isaac is the sleeper here, he has the highest upside of this group and Danny Ainge surprised everyone last season by taking Jaylen Brown.
04. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SG/SF Kansas (6-7, 209) Age: 20
It seems like the Suns are very keen on Josh Jackson and he would be the pick, if he is not drafted prior to their selection. It makes sense that the Suns are looking to improve their defense, particularly on the wing, so Josh Jackson seems like a logical fit, especially if they see a future frontcourt of Jackson, Marquese Chriss, and Dragan Bender, which would be very versatile and switchable. If the Celtics go Jackson, the Suns may prefer Isaac over Tatum
05. Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky (6-3¼, 170) Age: 19
The Kings are apparently very hot on Fox and, strangely, he seems to feel the same way. Well, for a team that needs a point guard and can rarely attract anyone to come even work out for them, this seems to be a match made in heaven.
06. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State (6-10, 210) Age: 19
The Magic could go in a number of directions here, with point guard Dennis Smith Jr. and shooting guard Malik Monk particularly strong contenders to bolster Orlando's flagging backcourt. However, as questionable as Elfird Payton is, the fact remains that the Magic lack any kind of option at small forward. Trade accusation Terrence Ross played there most of the time after the failure of the Aaron Gordon-at-the-3 experiment, but he is more of a shooting guard. Isaac is a versatile defensive wing that could be a very good long term option as a switchy forward pair with Gordon.
07. Minnesota Timberwolves: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky (6-3, 200) Age: 19
If Isaac and Tatum are both off the board, the Timberwolves will be in an interesting spot. In theory, either of the remaining point guards makes sense because the Wolves are always trying to replace Ricky Rubio (even if he isn't the problem) but they drafted Kris Dunn least season, Dennis Smith doesn't seem like a Thibs guy and Ntlikina isn't going to be ready to go right off the bat. What the Timberwolves actually need is a forward that can defend and shoot to play next to Karl Towns, hence Tatum and Isaac, but not Markkanen, So where does that leave them? OG Anunoby would be a way off the board selection, but a logical fit. In the end, another guard to add to their rotation is an solid, if imperfect solution to this dilemma. Of course, there is also a real chance that Chicago is making this pick in a Jimmy Butler trade.
08. New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG Strasbourg (6-5, 170) Age: 18
This might be the worse case scenario for the Knicks, as they would likely be hoping that one of the upper tier prospects falls to them. Dennis Smith Jr is one of those prospects, but he isn't a fit in the triangle as much as Ntilikina is, despite the fact he is a significantly lesser prospect. Of course, it is possible that the Knicks won't make the wrong decision, as the seem to have so frequently in the past, if so Dennis Smith would be a great selection for them and a potential future star to pair with Kristaps Porzingis, Smith has that high of upside.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith Jr, PG North Carolina State (6-3, 195) Age: 19
This is an ideal situation for both the Mavs and Smith. The former would get a potential star that fit their offensive system perfectly while the latter would see his talent maximized, as so many other Dallas point guards have. Markkanen is another obvious solution, a potential replacement for Dirk Nowitzki, but Smith is a better prospect in an area of just as much need.
10. Sacramento Kings (from New Orleans): Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona (7-0, 230) Age: 20
The Kings would have to hope that somehow Malik Monk or one of the other non-point guards in the top ten falls to them here. Markkanen isn't the perfect one for them, mostly because he may be best suited to play center long term. However, an special shooter, such as Markkanen would really change the shape of the Kings offense and help to mitigate De'Aaron Fox's lack of shooting.
11. Charlotte Hornets: Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville (6-3, 211) Age: 20
The Hornets, having acquired Dwight Howard, now need to turn their attention to the guard rotation, which is weak once you get past the starters. Donovan Mitchell is a shot creator with tremendous physical tools and the potential to be a very good two-way player. Obligatory Michael Jordan might want to draft a UNC guy, and though Jackson wouldn't be bad, I think the Hornets need a creator more-so than a shooter.
12. Detroit Pistons: Luke Kennard, SG Duke (6-5½, 196) Age: 20
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a free agent (albiet a restricted one) and his backup is an unproven player that was just suspended for the first five games of next season. Luke Kennard is not without his faults (mostly defensively) but he is a very good shooter with a high basketball IQ that should make a very good third guard that fits the Pistons needs very well.
13. Denver Nuggets: OG Anunoby, SF/PF Indiana (6-7¾, 232) Age: 19
This selection makes just too much sense to happen, however given how good at drafting the Nuggets have been, I wouldn't be too surprised if it actually happened. The Nuggets have a ton of offensive talent but lack any big defensive stoppers, which is where Anunoby would come in. His offensive problems won't be as big of an issue with all of the Nuggets offensive talent.
14. Miami Heat: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest (6-9½, 225) Age: 19
This is just a hunch, but John Collins seems like a Heat-type player because of his endless motor and his main weakness, defense, is something that the Heat excel at teaching. Collins might not be a starter long term, but as a rotation big man that provides a ton of energy, rebounding, and paint offense, he should last a long time in the NBA.
15. Portland Trail Blazers: Zach Collins, C Gonzaga (7-0, 232) Age: 19
Their trade of Jusef Nurkic turn the Blazers season around last year so they should look to build on that by securing a good backup that can fill in when Nurkic is off the floor or injured, which has been an issue for him in the past. Zach Collins is a different type player, but if he lives up to his potential as as a strong defensive player that can also stretch the floor, he would be a valuable piece that fits well with the Blazers roster construction.
16. Chicago Bulls: Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina (6-8¼, 201) Age: 22
Accomplished college player? Check. Big program? Check. 22 or older? Check. All kidding aside regarding the Bulls draft tendency, Justin Jackson is a solid, if unspectacular, role player that does a lot of little things on offense but lacks a true carrying skill outside of his shooting and even that might be questionable after two bad years shooting the ball before breaking out as a Junior.
17. Milwaukee Bucks: Jawun Evans, PG Oklahoma State (5-11½, 185) Age: 20
This isn't a prototypical Bucks type pick, but they do have a need for a real point guard/lead ball handler type to take the pressure off of Giannis. Malcolm Brogdon and Matthew Dellavedova are good players, but they aren't the type of pick-and-roll wizards that Evans is.
18. Indiana Pacers: Terrence Ferguson, SG Adelaide (6-7, 184) Age: 19
With Paul George and likely Jeff Teague on the way out, it is time for the Pacers to turn over a new leaf and rebuild with high upside players that fit around Myles Turner. Terrence Ferguson is a great athlete with a defensive mindset and good looking stroke. He is very young and needs seasoning, but as a defender/shooter there is nice upside here.
19. Atlanta Hawks: Ike Anigbogu, C UCLA (6-9¾, 252) Age: 18
The Hawks just traded Dwight Howard, so why not take a player just like him, but much younger and not an off-court problem? Ike Anigbogu is a ripped physical presence that is raw as can be on offense but with a lot of potential a couple years down the line.
20. Portland Trail Blazers (from Memphis): Frank Jackson, PG/SG Duke (6-3½, 202) Age: 19
The Blazers probably won't make all three of their picks, but guard depth should be a priority. Frank Jackson makes a lot of sense in theory due to his ability to play on or off the ball.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Semi Ojeleye, SF/PF SMU (6-6¾, 241) Age: 22
The Thunder need shooters, preferably ones that can defend as well. Semi Ojeleye shot .424% from three last season and has a lot of versatility with his size and length on the defensive end.
22. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Harry Giles, PF/C Duke (6-10½, 232) Age: 19
The Nets need to take chances to potentially land a star and there is no bigger chance on a star than Harry Giles, who was a potential top overall pick before a rash of injuries. This is a toss at the dart board but one that could pay off big time.
23. Toronto Raptors (from LA Clippers): TJ Leaf, PF UCLA (6-9¾, 222) Age: 20
The Raptors are looking at a crazy off season that could see them lose both Patrick Patterson and Serge Ibaka, which would leave a big hole in their frontcourt. TJ Leaf has a long way to go as a defensive player but is skill as ball-handler/passer/shooter as a big man.
24. Utah Jazz: Derrick White, PG/SG Colorado (6-4½, 190) Age: 23
If the Jazz use both of their draft picks on non-stash players then they will likely draft a point guard. Derrick White is a bit of a combo guard but he is a well rounded player that does everything well on both ends of the court.
25. Orlando Magic (from Toronto): Josh Hart, SG Villanova (6-5, 209) Age: 22
The Magic need guards and they are starting to this out at this point of the draft. Hart is similar to Derrick White but with less point guard skills.
26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Isaiah Hartenstein, C Zalgiris (7-0, 225) Age: 19
Again, the Blazers have three firsts and are unlikely to use them all. One solution would be draft-and-stash. Isaiah Hartenstein is one of the top potential stashes available, a very talented player that needs seasoning in both the physical and mental aspects of the game.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn): Jarrett Allen, C Texas (6-10¼, 234) Age: 19
Talented big men are going to drop and teams drafting towards the bottom of the draft are the ones that are going to reap the rewards. Jarrett Allen looks like who you would draw up a center and has a lot of potential to be a good rotation big.
28. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Dillon Brooks, SG/SF Oregon (6-6, 220) Age: 21
The Lakers need to add quality depth to their roster and Dillon Brooks, who has been one of college basketball's best players the last couple years due to his ability to create his own shot, shoot the ball, and play solid defense.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Justin Patton, C Creighton (6-11¼, 229) Age: 19
Again, bigs are going to fall in this draft. Justin Patton has lot of tools and skills but needs seasoning. He'll probably end up an All-Star after a couple years in the Spurs organization.
30. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse (6-9½, 215) Age: 21
You can never have too many big men that can shoot, and when those players are also good shot blockers with potential switchability, getting them at the end of the first round is good value.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
In a stunning move the likes of which always gets discussed on blogs but never actually happens, the Celtics dealt the top over the pick for #3 and either the Lakers pick next year or the Kings pick after that. For the Sixers, the give up a valuable asset for an even more valuable one, plus their pick this year. Fultz is the top talent in this draft and an ideal fit for their roster. Philadelphia's core of Fultz, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid is certainly one of the best and most exciting in the league.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA (6-6, 190) Age: 19
The Lakers, who clearly have been fishing for more picks via a trade up by another team, like the Kings, are still highly likely to draft Lonzo Ball, the local kid and "star" type that they crave above all else. Jackson and Fox are the other rumored possibilities but I see that as just smoke in hopes of the Kings getting desperate.
03. Boston Celtics (from Philadelphia): Jayson Tatum, SF/PF Duke (6-8, 205) Age: 19
The Celtics, having traded the first overall pick, will now have a plethora of options before them, but the only realistic ones in my mind are the three wings, Jackson, Tatum, and Isaac. Jackson is an obviously Celtics-type draft pick, very similar to Marcus Smart and Justise Winslow, who they tried to acquire on his draft night, however he has thus far refused to work out for them. Tatum is much more skill offensively than Jackson and might make their team better overall as a second offensive banana. Isaac is the sleeper here, he has the highest upside of this group and Danny Ainge surprised everyone last season by taking Jaylen Brown.
04. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SG/SF Kansas (6-7, 209) Age: 20
It seems like the Suns are very keen on Josh Jackson and he would be the pick, if he is not drafted prior to their selection. It makes sense that the Suns are looking to improve their defense, particularly on the wing, so Josh Jackson seems like a logical fit, especially if they see a future frontcourt of Jackson, Marquese Chriss, and Dragan Bender, which would be very versatile and switchable. If the Celtics go Jackson, the Suns may prefer Isaac over Tatum
05. Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky (6-3¼, 170) Age: 19
The Kings are apparently very hot on Fox and, strangely, he seems to feel the same way. Well, for a team that needs a point guard and can rarely attract anyone to come even work out for them, this seems to be a match made in heaven.
06. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State (6-10, 210) Age: 19
The Magic could go in a number of directions here, with point guard Dennis Smith Jr. and shooting guard Malik Monk particularly strong contenders to bolster Orlando's flagging backcourt. However, as questionable as Elfird Payton is, the fact remains that the Magic lack any kind of option at small forward. Trade accusation Terrence Ross played there most of the time after the failure of the Aaron Gordon-at-the-3 experiment, but he is more of a shooting guard. Isaac is a versatile defensive wing that could be a very good long term option as a switchy forward pair with Gordon.
07. Minnesota Timberwolves: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky (6-3, 200) Age: 19
If Isaac and Tatum are both off the board, the Timberwolves will be in an interesting spot. In theory, either of the remaining point guards makes sense because the Wolves are always trying to replace Ricky Rubio (even if he isn't the problem) but they drafted Kris Dunn least season, Dennis Smith doesn't seem like a Thibs guy and Ntlikina isn't going to be ready to go right off the bat. What the Timberwolves actually need is a forward that can defend and shoot to play next to Karl Towns, hence Tatum and Isaac, but not Markkanen, So where does that leave them? OG Anunoby would be a way off the board selection, but a logical fit. In the end, another guard to add to their rotation is an solid, if imperfect solution to this dilemma. Of course, there is also a real chance that Chicago is making this pick in a Jimmy Butler trade.
08. New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG Strasbourg (6-5, 170) Age: 18
This might be the worse case scenario for the Knicks, as they would likely be hoping that one of the upper tier prospects falls to them. Dennis Smith Jr is one of those prospects, but he isn't a fit in the triangle as much as Ntilikina is, despite the fact he is a significantly lesser prospect. Of course, it is possible that the Knicks won't make the wrong decision, as the seem to have so frequently in the past, if so Dennis Smith would be a great selection for them and a potential future star to pair with Kristaps Porzingis, Smith has that high of upside.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith Jr, PG North Carolina State (6-3, 195) Age: 19
This is an ideal situation for both the Mavs and Smith. The former would get a potential star that fit their offensive system perfectly while the latter would see his talent maximized, as so many other Dallas point guards have. Markkanen is another obvious solution, a potential replacement for Dirk Nowitzki, but Smith is a better prospect in an area of just as much need.
10. Sacramento Kings (from New Orleans): Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona (7-0, 230) Age: 20
The Kings would have to hope that somehow Malik Monk or one of the other non-point guards in the top ten falls to them here. Markkanen isn't the perfect one for them, mostly because he may be best suited to play center long term. However, an special shooter, such as Markkanen would really change the shape of the Kings offense and help to mitigate De'Aaron Fox's lack of shooting.
11. Charlotte Hornets: Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville (6-3, 211) Age: 20
The Hornets, having acquired Dwight Howard, now need to turn their attention to the guard rotation, which is weak once you get past the starters. Donovan Mitchell is a shot creator with tremendous physical tools and the potential to be a very good two-way player. Obligatory Michael Jordan might want to draft a UNC guy, and though Jackson wouldn't be bad, I think the Hornets need a creator more-so than a shooter.
12. Detroit Pistons: Luke Kennard, SG Duke (6-5½, 196) Age: 20
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a free agent (albiet a restricted one) and his backup is an unproven player that was just suspended for the first five games of next season. Luke Kennard is not without his faults (mostly defensively) but he is a very good shooter with a high basketball IQ that should make a very good third guard that fits the Pistons needs very well.
13. Denver Nuggets: OG Anunoby, SF/PF Indiana (6-7¾, 232) Age: 19
This selection makes just too much sense to happen, however given how good at drafting the Nuggets have been, I wouldn't be too surprised if it actually happened. The Nuggets have a ton of offensive talent but lack any big defensive stoppers, which is where Anunoby would come in. His offensive problems won't be as big of an issue with all of the Nuggets offensive talent.
14. Miami Heat: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest (6-9½, 225) Age: 19
This is just a hunch, but John Collins seems like a Heat-type player because of his endless motor and his main weakness, defense, is something that the Heat excel at teaching. Collins might not be a starter long term, but as a rotation big man that provides a ton of energy, rebounding, and paint offense, he should last a long time in the NBA.
15. Portland Trail Blazers: Zach Collins, C Gonzaga (7-0, 232) Age: 19
Their trade of Jusef Nurkic turn the Blazers season around last year so they should look to build on that by securing a good backup that can fill in when Nurkic is off the floor or injured, which has been an issue for him in the past. Zach Collins is a different type player, but if he lives up to his potential as as a strong defensive player that can also stretch the floor, he would be a valuable piece that fits well with the Blazers roster construction.
16. Chicago Bulls: Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina (6-8¼, 201) Age: 22
Accomplished college player? Check. Big program? Check. 22 or older? Check. All kidding aside regarding the Bulls draft tendency, Justin Jackson is a solid, if unspectacular, role player that does a lot of little things on offense but lacks a true carrying skill outside of his shooting and even that might be questionable after two bad years shooting the ball before breaking out as a Junior.
17. Milwaukee Bucks: Jawun Evans, PG Oklahoma State (5-11½, 185) Age: 20
This isn't a prototypical Bucks type pick, but they do have a need for a real point guard/lead ball handler type to take the pressure off of Giannis. Malcolm Brogdon and Matthew Dellavedova are good players, but they aren't the type of pick-and-roll wizards that Evans is.
18. Indiana Pacers: Terrence Ferguson, SG Adelaide (6-7, 184) Age: 19
With Paul George and likely Jeff Teague on the way out, it is time for the Pacers to turn over a new leaf and rebuild with high upside players that fit around Myles Turner. Terrence Ferguson is a great athlete with a defensive mindset and good looking stroke. He is very young and needs seasoning, but as a defender/shooter there is nice upside here.
19. Atlanta Hawks: Ike Anigbogu, C UCLA (6-9¾, 252) Age: 18
The Hawks just traded Dwight Howard, so why not take a player just like him, but much younger and not an off-court problem? Ike Anigbogu is a ripped physical presence that is raw as can be on offense but with a lot of potential a couple years down the line.
20. Portland Trail Blazers (from Memphis): Frank Jackson, PG/SG Duke (6-3½, 202) Age: 19
The Blazers probably won't make all three of their picks, but guard depth should be a priority. Frank Jackson makes a lot of sense in theory due to his ability to play on or off the ball.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Semi Ojeleye, SF/PF SMU (6-6¾, 241) Age: 22
The Thunder need shooters, preferably ones that can defend as well. Semi Ojeleye shot .424% from three last season and has a lot of versatility with his size and length on the defensive end.
22. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Harry Giles, PF/C Duke (6-10½, 232) Age: 19
The Nets need to take chances to potentially land a star and there is no bigger chance on a star than Harry Giles, who was a potential top overall pick before a rash of injuries. This is a toss at the dart board but one that could pay off big time.
23. Toronto Raptors (from LA Clippers): TJ Leaf, PF UCLA (6-9¾, 222) Age: 20
The Raptors are looking at a crazy off season that could see them lose both Patrick Patterson and Serge Ibaka, which would leave a big hole in their frontcourt. TJ Leaf has a long way to go as a defensive player but is skill as ball-handler/passer/shooter as a big man.
24. Utah Jazz: Derrick White, PG/SG Colorado (6-4½, 190) Age: 23
If the Jazz use both of their draft picks on non-stash players then they will likely draft a point guard. Derrick White is a bit of a combo guard but he is a well rounded player that does everything well on both ends of the court.
25. Orlando Magic (from Toronto): Josh Hart, SG Villanova (6-5, 209) Age: 22
The Magic need guards and they are starting to this out at this point of the draft. Hart is similar to Derrick White but with less point guard skills.
26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Isaiah Hartenstein, C Zalgiris (7-0, 225) Age: 19
Again, the Blazers have three firsts and are unlikely to use them all. One solution would be draft-and-stash. Isaiah Hartenstein is one of the top potential stashes available, a very talented player that needs seasoning in both the physical and mental aspects of the game.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn): Jarrett Allen, C Texas (6-10¼, 234) Age: 19
Talented big men are going to drop and teams drafting towards the bottom of the draft are the ones that are going to reap the rewards. Jarrett Allen looks like who you would draw up a center and has a lot of potential to be a good rotation big.
28. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Dillon Brooks, SG/SF Oregon (6-6, 220) Age: 21
The Lakers need to add quality depth to their roster and Dillon Brooks, who has been one of college basketball's best players the last couple years due to his ability to create his own shot, shoot the ball, and play solid defense.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Justin Patton, C Creighton (6-11¼, 229) Age: 19
Again, bigs are going to fall in this draft. Justin Patton has lot of tools and skills but needs seasoning. He'll probably end up an All-Star after a couple years in the Spurs organization.
30. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse (6-9½, 215) Age: 21
You can never have too many big men that can shoot, and when those players are also good shot blockers with potential switchability, getting them at the end of the first round is good value.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Monday, February 27, 2017
2017 NBA Mock Draft (2/27)
Before the lottery, mock drafts are pretty silly but it at least gives an idea not only of team needs, but also how the strengths and weaknesses of the draft might play out. I used FiveThirtyEight's projection system (as of 2/24) to determine the draft order, though obviously some things will change by the end of the season, most notably Sacramento is likely to keep their draft pick (if it falls in the top 10) instead of sending it off the Chicago, after trading DeMarcus Cousins. Measurements are college team listed and age is on draft night.
01. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn Nets): Markelle Fultz, PG/SG Washington (6-4, 195) Age: 19
Fultz is the best prospect in the draft, whoever gets the first pick should draft him, no matter who they already have on the roster. For Boston, Isaiah Thomas, Marcus Smart, and Avery Bradley are all becoming free agents in the next two years, so Fultz makes sense beyond that.
02. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SF Kansas (6-8, 207) Age: 20
The Suns have been searching for a two-way wing for years and they have several options in Jackson, Jonathan Isaac, and Jayson Tatum. Jackson is the better defender and fits next to the Suns' high usage guards. However, Tatum is a real option due to his sophisticated offensive game and based on the high upside style of drafting the Suns have pursed recently, Isaac is also a serious option.
03. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA (6-6, 190) Age: 19
Ball plays in LA, is from nearby Chino Hills, has the Lakers coveted "star" profile, and is a tall point guard that makes flashy plays ala new Lakers President of Basketball Ops Magic Johnson... If the Lakers keep their pick (it has to be top 3) and Ball is available when they select, it's hard to see a bigger lock than this.
04. Orlando Magic: Dennis Smith Jr, PG North Carolina (6-3, 195) Age: 19
Elfrid Payton has been improved, but it is going to be very hard to have a good offense with him as your starting point guard. Dennis Smith Jr. is a different story all together. Whatever Orlando's plan was in building their roster, it hasn't worked and it is time to move in a new direction, starting with Smith.
05. Philadelphia 76ers: Jayson Tatum, SF Duke (6-8, 205) Age: 19
While it might be tempting to put Malik Monk on the Sixers because of fit, but Tatum and Jonathan Isaac are better prospects and also fit needs for Philly. Tatum is good defender and a talented wing scorer who can shoot from three well enough to space the floor for Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons.
06. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State (6-10, 210) Age: 19
The Timberwolves defense has lacked a versatile forward on both ends of the court for a while now. Andrew Wiggins just hasn't gotten there as a defender and Gorgui Dieng is probably a better option as a backup center. Isaac is a really good fit with the rest of Minnesota's roster.
07. New York Knicks: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky (6-3, 200) Age: 19
The Knicks franchise has been a mess so far this season, but the good news is they will get a chance at finding another building block in the draft. Malik Monk is really up and down, but when he is up he can win a game for you. Sure to be an MSG fan favorite.
08. Sacramento Kings (from New Orleans): De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky (6-3, 187) Age: 19
With Darren Collison a free agent this summer and Ty Lawson no one's idea of a starting point guard, the Kings will need to find someone to run the team this summer. Fox isn't a shooting threat, but his passing and defense will be a solid fit in the next era of Kings' basketball.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona (7-0, 230) Age: 19
It is probably a little too convenient that the tall European shooter is available to the Mavericks just as Dirk Nowitzki's career is winding down, but... It does make a lot of sense, as does Markkanen's fit next to new Dallas center Nerlens Noel.
10. Charlotte Hornets: Robert Williams, PF/C Texas A&M (6-9, 237) Age: 19
Two years ago the Hornets passed on a young big man from Texas and that didn't work out too well at all. Robert Williams' isn't the level of shooter (yet) that Myles Turner is, but he is a better athlete. Charlotte's backup big man issues have tanked their season and must be solved.
11. Chicago Bulls (from Sacramento): Frank Ntilikina, PG Strasbough (6-5, 170) Age: 18
The Bulls somehow have four point guards on their roster that can't shoot. Frank Ntilikina can not only shoot but he is an excellent pick-and-roll player and versatile defender. Note: this pick will belong to the Kings if it falls in the top ten, a likely outcome.)
12. Portland Trailblazers: Miles Bridges, SF/PF Michigan State (6-7, 230) Age: 19
This is the end of a tier of talent, but it also makes sense for Portland, who might look to get off the money owed wings Even Turner and Moe Harkless. Bridges is a combo forward who fits well next to Portland's guards because he is a spot-up shooter and rim finisher that can guard multiple positions but isn't a shot creator.
13. Milwaukee Bucks: Justin Patton, C Creighton (6-11, 215) Age: 20
Aside from Greg Monroe, the Bucks have several mediocre centers, and Monroe might not be long for Milwaukee. Justin Patton isn't a finished product, but his finishing skills, ability to run the floor, decent shooting touch, and mobility on defense would be a solid fit with the Bucks style of play.
14. Miami Heat: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest (6-10, 218) Age: 19
The Heat are loaded down with wings and combo guards, but are surprisingly light in the big man spots. John Collins is a hyper-active, bouncy, super productive big man that would fit the Heat culture well.
15. Denver Nuggets: Harry Giles, PF/C Duke (6-10, 240) Age: 19
The Nuggets have so much young talent, they can afford to take a chance with their draft pick. Harry Giles and his knee injuries are definitely a risk, but there is also the reward of possibly a top 3 talent in the draft.
16. Detroit Pistons: Terrance Ferguson, SG Adelaide (6-7, 186) Age: 19
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is going to be one of the most sought after free agents this summer, and even though he is restricted there is a real chance Detroit could lose him. Terrance Ferguson has the KCP starter kit: top level athletic ability and a really nice stroke from the perimeter.
17. Chicago Bulls: Ivan Rabb, PF/C California (6-11, 220) Age: 20
With Taj Gibson traded, Christiano Felicio and Nikola Mirotic pending free agents and Bobby Portis not good yet, the Bulls are all of a sudden looking at a real deficiency in their frontcourt. Ivan Rabb is the kind of player the Bulls like to draft, accomplished and safe, but also lacking a big upside.
18. Indiana Pacers: Jarrett Allen, C Texas (6-11, 235) Age: 19
Well, the last time the Pacers drafted a big man from Texas it worked out, didn't it? Allen isn't quite the prospect that Myles Turner was, but he has tremendous measurables and would fit MUCH better as the Pacers backup center than Al Jefferson, who can't play fast like the Pacers want and tanks their defense.
19. Atlanta Hawks: Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse (6-8, 205) Age: 21
Between Ryan Kelly and Ersan Ilyasova, it is clear the Hawks would like a stretch four for their system. Lydon is shooting .406% from three through 234 career attempts and he offers much more upside defensively than Kelly or Ilyasova.
20. Oklahoma City Thunder: Luke Kennard, SG Duke (6-5, 180) Age: 20
The Thunder clearly recognize their need for shooting, as they recently traded for Doug McDermott, but even with that addition, they need to add shooting going forward. Kennard is the kind of shooter they need and also makes smart plays, making up some for his physical deficiencies.
21. Toronto Raptors: T.J. Leaf, PF UCLA (6-10, 225) Age: 20
With Serge Ibaka and Patrick Patterson both entering free agency this year, the Raptors will need to shore up their frontcourt in preparation for losing one of them. Leaf has real warts defensively, but he is an active big man with a good outside shot.
22. Portland Trail Blazers (from Memphis): OG Anunoby, SF Indiana (6-8, 215) Age: 19
With three first round picks (at least for now, no doubt they will trade at least one) the Blazers can afford to take a chance, which OG Anunoby would definitely be since he is recovering from a knee injury and has regressed as as shooter, despite his immense defensive talent.
23. Utah Jazz: Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina (6-8, 193) Age: 22
Despite the fact there is no evidence pointing to Gordon Heyward's desire to leave Utah, (hey did you know Brad Stevens coached Heyward in college?) Utah will still need to have a backup plan if Heyward scoots. Jackson isn't Heyward in any way shape or form but he is a smart wing that can really shoot and moves well off the ball.
24. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Caleb Swanigan, PF/C Purdue (6-9, 260) Age: 20
The Nets need to make their draft picks count, so swinging for the fences makes sense with at least one of their two firsts this year. Caleb Swanigan isn't a traditional high upside pick because he isn't a great athlete, but he is very skilled and vacuums up rebounds.
25. Orlando Magic (from Los Angeles): Josh Hart, SG Villanova (6-5, 205) Age: 22
Playmaking and shooting have long been problems in Orlando, so Josh Hart fit the bill. Hart is a very good shooter and has really grown handling the ball and passing. His upside is low, but like Malcolm Brogdon last year, Hart looks like an early contributor.
26. Brooklyn Nets (from Boston): Shake Milton, PG/SG SMU (6-5, 195) Age: 20
The Net have had serious issues in their backcourt for the last two seasons and it has really hurt their ability to win games. Milton fits the Nets uptempo style of play and can really do a multitude of things on the court, including make plays, shoot, and defend multiple positions.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville (6-3, 210) Age: 20
The Lakers need at least one guard that can defend. Mitchell can do that, as well as a tough off the dribble game and improved jumper.
28. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Isaiah Hartenstein, C Zalgris (7-0, 225) Age: 19
Again, the Blazers are unlikely to use all three draft picks, but if they do they could look to draft-and-stash. Hartenstein has some question marks regarding attitude, but the talent and skill at his size is undeniable.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Bam Adebayo, C Kentucky (6-10, 260) Age: 20
The Spurs worked their magic again and have gotten a huge season out of castoff Dwayne Dedmon, however he will be a free agent this summer and likely to be highly coveted in this market bereft of rim protectors. Adebayo isn't much but an massive, athletic big at this point, but with some work, the Spurs tremendous staff could turn him into a quality backup down the line.
30. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): Johnathan Motley, PF/C Baylor (6-9, 230) Age: 22
Motley is a really solid all-around big that can play some center, which makes his jumper even more of a weapon while he has the defensive and rebounding potential to make it work as a backup big that helps on both ends.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Hoop-math.com draftexpress.com & sports-reference.com/cbb/ are all feature invaluable information used in this post.
01. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn Nets): Markelle Fultz, PG/SG Washington (6-4, 195) Age: 19
Fultz is the best prospect in the draft, whoever gets the first pick should draft him, no matter who they already have on the roster. For Boston, Isaiah Thomas, Marcus Smart, and Avery Bradley are all becoming free agents in the next two years, so Fultz makes sense beyond that.
02. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SF Kansas (6-8, 207) Age: 20
The Suns have been searching for a two-way wing for years and they have several options in Jackson, Jonathan Isaac, and Jayson Tatum. Jackson is the better defender and fits next to the Suns' high usage guards. However, Tatum is a real option due to his sophisticated offensive game and based on the high upside style of drafting the Suns have pursed recently, Isaac is also a serious option.
03. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA (6-6, 190) Age: 19
Ball plays in LA, is from nearby Chino Hills, has the Lakers coveted "star" profile, and is a tall point guard that makes flashy plays ala new Lakers President of Basketball Ops Magic Johnson... If the Lakers keep their pick (it has to be top 3) and Ball is available when they select, it's hard to see a bigger lock than this.
04. Orlando Magic: Dennis Smith Jr, PG North Carolina (6-3, 195) Age: 19
Elfrid Payton has been improved, but it is going to be very hard to have a good offense with him as your starting point guard. Dennis Smith Jr. is a different story all together. Whatever Orlando's plan was in building their roster, it hasn't worked and it is time to move in a new direction, starting with Smith.
05. Philadelphia 76ers: Jayson Tatum, SF Duke (6-8, 205) Age: 19
While it might be tempting to put Malik Monk on the Sixers because of fit, but Tatum and Jonathan Isaac are better prospects and also fit needs for Philly. Tatum is good defender and a talented wing scorer who can shoot from three well enough to space the floor for Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons.
06. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State (6-10, 210) Age: 19
The Timberwolves defense has lacked a versatile forward on both ends of the court for a while now. Andrew Wiggins just hasn't gotten there as a defender and Gorgui Dieng is probably a better option as a backup center. Isaac is a really good fit with the rest of Minnesota's roster.
07. New York Knicks: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky (6-3, 200) Age: 19
The Knicks franchise has been a mess so far this season, but the good news is they will get a chance at finding another building block in the draft. Malik Monk is really up and down, but when he is up he can win a game for you. Sure to be an MSG fan favorite.
08. Sacramento Kings (from New Orleans): De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky (6-3, 187) Age: 19
With Darren Collison a free agent this summer and Ty Lawson no one's idea of a starting point guard, the Kings will need to find someone to run the team this summer. Fox isn't a shooting threat, but his passing and defense will be a solid fit in the next era of Kings' basketball.
09. Dallas Mavericks: Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona (7-0, 230) Age: 19
It is probably a little too convenient that the tall European shooter is available to the Mavericks just as Dirk Nowitzki's career is winding down, but... It does make a lot of sense, as does Markkanen's fit next to new Dallas center Nerlens Noel.
10. Charlotte Hornets: Robert Williams, PF/C Texas A&M (6-9, 237) Age: 19
Two years ago the Hornets passed on a young big man from Texas and that didn't work out too well at all. Robert Williams' isn't the level of shooter (yet) that Myles Turner is, but he is a better athlete. Charlotte's backup big man issues have tanked their season and must be solved.
11. Chicago Bulls (from Sacramento): Frank Ntilikina, PG Strasbough (6-5, 170) Age: 18
The Bulls somehow have four point guards on their roster that can't shoot. Frank Ntilikina can not only shoot but he is an excellent pick-and-roll player and versatile defender. Note: this pick will belong to the Kings if it falls in the top ten, a likely outcome.)
12. Portland Trailblazers: Miles Bridges, SF/PF Michigan State (6-7, 230) Age: 19
This is the end of a tier of talent, but it also makes sense for Portland, who might look to get off the money owed wings Even Turner and Moe Harkless. Bridges is a combo forward who fits well next to Portland's guards because he is a spot-up shooter and rim finisher that can guard multiple positions but isn't a shot creator.
13. Milwaukee Bucks: Justin Patton, C Creighton (6-11, 215) Age: 20
Aside from Greg Monroe, the Bucks have several mediocre centers, and Monroe might not be long for Milwaukee. Justin Patton isn't a finished product, but his finishing skills, ability to run the floor, decent shooting touch, and mobility on defense would be a solid fit with the Bucks style of play.
14. Miami Heat: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest (6-10, 218) Age: 19
The Heat are loaded down with wings and combo guards, but are surprisingly light in the big man spots. John Collins is a hyper-active, bouncy, super productive big man that would fit the Heat culture well.
15. Denver Nuggets: Harry Giles, PF/C Duke (6-10, 240) Age: 19
The Nuggets have so much young talent, they can afford to take a chance with their draft pick. Harry Giles and his knee injuries are definitely a risk, but there is also the reward of possibly a top 3 talent in the draft.
16. Detroit Pistons: Terrance Ferguson, SG Adelaide (6-7, 186) Age: 19
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is going to be one of the most sought after free agents this summer, and even though he is restricted there is a real chance Detroit could lose him. Terrance Ferguson has the KCP starter kit: top level athletic ability and a really nice stroke from the perimeter.
17. Chicago Bulls: Ivan Rabb, PF/C California (6-11, 220) Age: 20
With Taj Gibson traded, Christiano Felicio and Nikola Mirotic pending free agents and Bobby Portis not good yet, the Bulls are all of a sudden looking at a real deficiency in their frontcourt. Ivan Rabb is the kind of player the Bulls like to draft, accomplished and safe, but also lacking a big upside.
18. Indiana Pacers: Jarrett Allen, C Texas (6-11, 235) Age: 19
Well, the last time the Pacers drafted a big man from Texas it worked out, didn't it? Allen isn't quite the prospect that Myles Turner was, but he has tremendous measurables and would fit MUCH better as the Pacers backup center than Al Jefferson, who can't play fast like the Pacers want and tanks their defense.
19. Atlanta Hawks: Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse (6-8, 205) Age: 21
Between Ryan Kelly and Ersan Ilyasova, it is clear the Hawks would like a stretch four for their system. Lydon is shooting .406% from three through 234 career attempts and he offers much more upside defensively than Kelly or Ilyasova.
20. Oklahoma City Thunder: Luke Kennard, SG Duke (6-5, 180) Age: 20
The Thunder clearly recognize their need for shooting, as they recently traded for Doug McDermott, but even with that addition, they need to add shooting going forward. Kennard is the kind of shooter they need and also makes smart plays, making up some for his physical deficiencies.
21. Toronto Raptors: T.J. Leaf, PF UCLA (6-10, 225) Age: 20
With Serge Ibaka and Patrick Patterson both entering free agency this year, the Raptors will need to shore up their frontcourt in preparation for losing one of them. Leaf has real warts defensively, but he is an active big man with a good outside shot.
22. Portland Trail Blazers (from Memphis): OG Anunoby, SF Indiana (6-8, 215) Age: 19
With three first round picks (at least for now, no doubt they will trade at least one) the Blazers can afford to take a chance, which OG Anunoby would definitely be since he is recovering from a knee injury and has regressed as as shooter, despite his immense defensive talent.
23. Utah Jazz: Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina (6-8, 193) Age: 22
Despite the fact there is no evidence pointing to Gordon Heyward's desire to leave Utah, (hey did you know Brad Stevens coached Heyward in college?) Utah will still need to have a backup plan if Heyward scoots. Jackson isn't Heyward in any way shape or form but he is a smart wing that can really shoot and moves well off the ball.
24. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Caleb Swanigan, PF/C Purdue (6-9, 260) Age: 20
The Nets need to make their draft picks count, so swinging for the fences makes sense with at least one of their two firsts this year. Caleb Swanigan isn't a traditional high upside pick because he isn't a great athlete, but he is very skilled and vacuums up rebounds.
25. Orlando Magic (from Los Angeles): Josh Hart, SG Villanova (6-5, 205) Age: 22
Playmaking and shooting have long been problems in Orlando, so Josh Hart fit the bill. Hart is a very good shooter and has really grown handling the ball and passing. His upside is low, but like Malcolm Brogdon last year, Hart looks like an early contributor.
26. Brooklyn Nets (from Boston): Shake Milton, PG/SG SMU (6-5, 195) Age: 20
The Net have had serious issues in their backcourt for the last two seasons and it has really hurt their ability to win games. Milton fits the Nets uptempo style of play and can really do a multitude of things on the court, including make plays, shoot, and defend multiple positions.
27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville (6-3, 210) Age: 20
The Lakers need at least one guard that can defend. Mitchell can do that, as well as a tough off the dribble game and improved jumper.
28. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Isaiah Hartenstein, C Zalgris (7-0, 225) Age: 19
Again, the Blazers are unlikely to use all three draft picks, but if they do they could look to draft-and-stash. Hartenstein has some question marks regarding attitude, but the talent and skill at his size is undeniable.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Bam Adebayo, C Kentucky (6-10, 260) Age: 20
The Spurs worked their magic again and have gotten a huge season out of castoff Dwayne Dedmon, however he will be a free agent this summer and likely to be highly coveted in this market bereft of rim protectors. Adebayo isn't much but an massive, athletic big at this point, but with some work, the Spurs tremendous staff could turn him into a quality backup down the line.
30. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): Johnathan Motley, PF/C Baylor (6-9, 230) Age: 22
Motley is a really solid all-around big that can play some center, which makes his jumper even more of a weapon while he has the defensive and rebounding potential to make it work as a backup big that helps on both ends.
Follow me on Twitter @double_tech
Hoop-math.com draftexpress.com & sports-reference.com/cbb/ are all feature invaluable information used in this post.
Friday, June 24, 2016
2016 NBA Draft: Los Angeles Lakers Draft Review
Current 2016-17 Roster
PG: D'Angelo Russell
SG: Nick Young
SF: Brandon Ingram/Anthony Brown
PF: Julius Randle/Larry Nance Jr.
C: Ivica Zubac
Free Agents
PF Brandon Bass
SG Kobe Bryant (Retired)
C Roy Hibbert
C Robert Sacre
SF Metta World Peace
G Jordan Clarkson (Restricted)
PG Marcelo Huertas (Restricted)
PF Ryan Kelly (Restricted)
C Tarik Black (Restricted)
Who They Acquired
02. Brandon Ingram, SF Duke
The Lakers made the obvious choice, going with whom many considered the 1b to Ben Simmons 1a. Ingram probably won't be the star that Los Angeles craves, but we will be an excellent contributor in every area of the game and the kind of player that will attract free agents and can fit in pretty much any offense.
32. Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks
In the second round, the Lakers got a steal a in Zubac, who was projected by many to be a sure-fire first round pick. Croatia's Zubac most likely fell because he wants (and presumably will) come to the NBA right away and wasn't interested in being stashed. He isn't ready to be a starting center, but in a back role of the bench Zubac could play 10-15 minutes a game as early as next season, especially if the Lakers aren't competing for anything, which is likely.
How They Fit
One of the biggest appeals of Ingram is that he fits really well with any team in any offense. However, despite the fact that he will likely be a starter and play many minutes for LA, it is important to remember the Ingram is far from a finished product and isn't the player he will be a few years from now. Starting out, Ingram will likely be limited to spot-up shooting and the occasional pick-and-roll opportunities as he adjusts to the physicality of the game. As he develops, Ingram projects as a secondary ball-handler who can play both forward spots, run pick-and-roll, and while he may never be an elite at-the-rim scorer, his pull-up game is something that could become a real weapon in the NBA. Ingram and an athletic big like Julius Randle as the role man would be difficult to contend with. Using Ingram as the screener is another possibility, where he can both pop or roll, with D'Angelo Russell as the ball-handler. At this point, Ingram is still learning the defensive fundamentals and should not be asked to guard the best opposing wing, however with defensive tissue paper in Russell and Jordan Clarkson as the projected backcourt, Ingram may have no choice but to take his lumps defensively. While eventually he can be a high usage player, Ingram can also be a low usage shooter/defender if LA is able to attract stars.
Zubac is definitely an old-style center, he doesn't have range to his game and is the most effective close to the basket, both offensively and defensively. Posting up, Zubac has good hands and feet, but his skills scoring there aren't what you call polished. However, at 7-1, 265 and still growing, there aren't going to be a ton of centers that will be able to matchup physically once his frame has fully filled out. Zubac will require offense to be created for him, either as a dump off or in the screen-and-roll game, therefore it would be wise to play him with a pure, passing point guard like Marcelo Huertas who can find him easy baskets as his other offense develops. Defensively, the further you move Zubac away from the basket at this point, the less effective his defense becomes. He isn't a pure shot-blocker, but his sheer size and reach make him an impediment at the basket. Where he needs to improve is defending on the moving, he isn't the kind of guy you want switching, but if he can just improve in the little areas like hedging screens then recovering, it will really help his defensive value. Pairing Zubac with a mobile power forward that can help him out would be wise.
What They Need Going Forward
With nine potential free agents this summer, the Lakers have a lot of needs and a chance to really re-make their roster with any number of free agents, from stars on down. While I am bullish on Zubac's potential career prospects, he is far from ready to be a starting center, which is LA biggest need. None of the Lakers other four starts project to be above-average defensive players, so a strong defensive center is a must (Dwight Howard? Just kidding.) Another wing player that could force Clarkson into a sixth-man role would be another option, particularly one that can shoot and play defense. Assuming that Huertas is retained, the Lakers should look to fill out their depth with strong defensive players that can mix-and-match with their more offensive focused starters.
In reality, none of the Lakers incumbent players have proved themselves to be starter level players yet, so if the Lakers can acquire a more proven young player, either in free agency or trade, then they should regardless of their current roster.
Oh and in what any way possible they can get rid of festering human boil Nick Young, they should.
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Tuesday, June 21, 2016
2016 NBA Draft: Mock Draft
I have no sources or inside information, just some (kinda) educated speculation:
The Sixers are taking Simmons, that is 99% of a lock at this point, the only intrigue left is what Philadelphia does with their logjam of big men and if they acquire another lottery pick.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18
Ingram is basically a lock here as well, though they have been making noise looking at some other players, I think that is just due diligence in case some team blows away with an offer for the #2 overall pick.
03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF/PF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19
I still don't think the Celtics are taking Dragan Bender, and will most likely trade this pick, but if they use it they will try to sell that they are taking a star, but go with a player like Jaylen Brown, with a higher floor than say Marquese Chriss, but also has some upside as well.
04. Phoenix Suns: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18
Dragan Bender would literally be the perfect fit for the Suns, but I am not sure Robert Sarver will stand for a top 5 pick that won't player right away. Ironically, Chriss isn't going to help much starting out either and has a significantly higher bust factor and not any more upside.
05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22
I don't know if Ricky Rubio gets traded (it would be a mistake, in my opinion) but Dunn is the type of player that can play a role for Minnesota early on, especially playing with a guard like Zach LaVine. Most importantly, Dunn can defend his tail off, which will appeal to Tom Thibodeau.
06. New Orleans Pelicans: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19
The Pelicans need to find more scoring and shot creation, which in theory is what Murray provides. Especially with Eric Gordon most likely departing in free agency, Murray could fill a similar role as a shooter and sometimes creator,
07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18
This is obviously a no-brainer for Denver, who not only could really use a player like Bender but also have patience with and an affinity for International prospects.
08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22
This is another no-brainer. There are major questions about just how good Hield can be in the NBA, but he is unlikely to bust completely and is a high character player that can help transform the Kings dysfunction. There are likely to be better players drafted after Hield, but with Sacramento I get swinging for a double, at this point they just need talent.
09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20
With Bismack Biyombo departing, Toronto can look to beef up their big man depth and draft a solid, well-rounded big man in Poeltl, though the Raptors are talented enough to go in pretty much any direction, minus point guard most likely.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Dejounte Murray, PG Washington (6-5, 170) Age: 19
Last year the Bucks drafted Rashad Vaughn way earlier than expected and you could defintely see them do that again with Murray, a raw prospect with upside but a looooong way to go,
11. Orlando Magic: Deyonta Davis, PF/C Michigan State (6-11, 237) Age: 19
Point guard is the main need for Orlando, but they don't seem to think so after they parted ways with their coach partially over Elfrid Payton. Davis has upside and a solid floor, but most of all he projects to compliment Orlando's current big men.
12. Atlanta Hawks (from Utah): Domantas Sabonis, PF/C Gonzaga (6-11, 231) Age: 20
After trading Jeff Teague for this pick, the Hawks (who may yet trade up further) can look to address their need for big man depth. The Hawks were really bad on the glass last season, an area Sabonis excels at. Even better his high IQ and skill fits the Hawks system.
13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks (6-7, 205) Age: 21
After power forward, a low-usage defensive wing/shooting wing is the Suns biggest need, so it would not be a shock for them to use one of their two lottery picks on a player like Timothe Luwawu.
14. Chicago Bulls: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-4, 202) Age: 20
The Bulls finally pulled the plug on Derrick Rose and now have a Jerian Grant/Jose Calderon combo at point guard. While Grant has some value (his fit with Fred Hoiberg is as good as his fit in the triangle was bad) but neither he nor Calderon has the upside of Wade Baldwin, who would fit well with Jimmy Butler.
15. Denver Nuggets (from Houston): Henry Ellenson, PF/C Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19
If Dragan Bender isn't able to come over and play right away, Denver could look to get a more immediate contributor in Ellenson or the like.
16. Boston Celtics (from Dallas): Malachi Richardson, SG Syracuse (6-6, 200) Age: 20
Someone is taking Richardson in the first round, likely in the top 20 and Boston (or whomever they trade with) seem like as likely a destination as any.
17. Memphis Grizzlies: Taurean Prince, SF/PF Baylor (6-8, 220) Age: 21
The Grizzlies are forever in a search for shooting and have built their team around tough defense in recent times. Prince projects to provide some of both.
18. Detroit Pistons: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State (6-6, 210) Age: 22
Valentine slides due to concerns about his knee. The local connection and Valentines fit in Stan Van Gundy's system make him too good to pass on.
19. Denver Nuggets (from Portland): Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21
Even with the strides that Emmanuel Mudiay took last season, the Nuggets still need to find him a back up and Jackson is great value here and an ideal fit as a backup point guard.
20. Brooklyn Nets (from Indiana): Tyler Ulis, PG Kentucky (5-10, 149) Age: 20
The Nets have the worst point guard situation in the league and desperately need something, anything there. Tyler Ulis is likely a backup but at least he can play point guard and has some tremendous intangibles.
21. Atlanta Hawks: Juan Hernangomez, PF Estudiantes (6-9, 220) Age: 20
With Paul Millsap entering the last year of his deal (most likely) and Al Horford a free agent to-be, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Hawks double on big men, especially if one with the potential of Hernangomez falling to them.
22. Sacramento Kings (from Charlotte): Malik Beasley, SG Florida State (6-5, 190) Age: 19
After trading Marco Bellineli to Charlotte for this pick, making there need for wings that can shoot and defend even more dire.
23. Boston Celtics: Damian Jones, C Vanderbilt (7-0, 244) Age: 20
Again, who knows if the Celtics actually use this pick but if they do, an athletic big man like Jones makes sense because he is significantly more physically talented than the rest of his team.
24. Philadelphia 76ers (from Miami): Patrick McCaw, SG UNLV (6-7, 185) Age: 20
The Sixers need wings that can shoot and defend, which is what McCaw projects to do, with some real upside as well.
25. Los Angeles Clippers: Malcolm Brogdon, SG Virginia (6-5, 223) Age: 23
Does it really matter who the Clippers draft here? He'll never play for Doc Rivers anyway. Still, if he did get to okay Malcolm Brogdon could help the Clippers in the backcourt with shooting, defense, and passing.
26. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City): Furkan Korkmaz, SG Anadolu Efes (6-7, 185) Age: 18
The Sixers are unlikely to bring in three rookies from this draft, so unless they trade the pick they will likely look to stash an international. Korkmaz could go much higher in the draft, but also might fall do to the rise of other prospects.
27. Toronto Raptors: Ante Zizc, C Cibona Zagreb (7-0, 249) Age: 19
Zizic is another prospect but could go higher but also might fall. He has been extremely productive in Europe at a young age and has the skills and motor to be a backup center at least.
28. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland): Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks (7-1, 265) Age: 19
Yet another international guy that could go higher, Zubax is huge and has some idea what he is doing, which is more rare than you might think.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Cheick Diallo, C Kansas (6-9, 219) Age: 19
The Spurs' lack of athleticism was glaring in their playoff series loss to the Thunder, they need to find some big bodies that can move, especially as Tim Duncan's career comes to a close.
30. Golden State Warriors: DeAndre Bembry, SF Saint Joseph's (6-6, 207) Age: 21
The Warriors lack of depth was exposed somewhat against the Cavaliers, so they would be wise to continue to add and develop real contributors, not just projects or players who fall due to injury. DeAndre Bembry is a really good fit there with his offensive and defensive versatility.
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
2016 NBA Mock Lottery
Now that we know the official draft order (which it turns out we already knew) and the top of the draft class seems to be crystallizing as far as who will be remaining in the draft and who will be returning to school. It is still to early to know very much about what will actually happen, but information has been slowly leaking out as to the strategies of both teams and players. After the first two picks in the draft (Brandon Ingram and Ben Simmons in some order), things could go off script quickly as teams have wildly differing views of the potential of this draft. Some value experience and production more, others look for upside and potential. Those two groups rarely intersect in this draft, leading to disparate rankings depending on what aspects you value more.
Once Sam Hinkie was ousted, it appeared conventional NBA wisdom was going to reign supreme, leading to the logical conclusion that Ben Simmons, the traditional "star-power" in the draft, the big name that could get fans excited and put rears in the seats would be the direction Philadelphia would look to go in. However, with the new that Simmons and his agent are trying to force their way to LA (as reported by Nick DePaula of The Vertical), it now appears that Ingram will be the direction they will go in, unless Simmons changes course and is willing to go to Philadelphia and be a model citizen and teammate. This isn't the worst thing for the Sixers, as Inrgam is a better fit on and off the court, mainly because he is a lock to play small forward and is the type of shooter that the Sixers have been desperate for, two things that cannot be said with certainty about Simmons.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Ben Simmons, PF LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19
This is an ideal scenario for the Lakers, as they get a highly marketable young player to fill the Mamba-sized left by Kobe Bryant and someone that will be easy to sell stars on playing with because he is such a willing and capable passer. The fit alongside Julius Randle is tenuous at best, and the dearth of shooting in LA is an issue, but those are all secondary concerns to LA. I would expect Simmons to be installed in a similar role as Draymond Green in new coach Luke Walton's DubSoCal offense. Defensively, he isn't a tenth of Green yet so there will be a need to figure things out around him there. LA will need a strong defensive center and role man to make best use of Simmons, as well as shooters to balance the floor and probably a good defender at small forward as well. Again, this is all of secondary concern to LA, who desperately need to re-ignite their franchise after the wasteland of the last couple seasons.
03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20
I could be totally wrong, but I get the feeling there is no way that Dragan Bender is the number 3 pick or Boston Celtics have the rights to Dragan Bender by the end of the summer. Now that could mean they trade the pick as part of a package for an established player, or to someone who falls in love with a prospect and sees how ugly this draft is and tries to get the guy they think could be a star, which I don't see being Bender. It also means if the Celtics pick here, they aren't taking Bender. They could (and should, in my opinion) but I just don't see it. Danny Ainge has eschewed foreign players in the past and I don't know why Bender would change his mind considering he is so young and is getting few minutes right now. There is also the question of message, Ainge has been selling his fans on all these assets and making the big move to get a star for years, and hasn't really gotten close, nor have they made it out of the first round of the playoffs with their current roster either. Is Ainge really going to take a project big man that might not even come over right away and when he does, still not be ready? That seems unlikely. So if not Bender, and not a trade, who? There are a number of options, none of which is particularly appealing but Poeltl is the best of the bunch. He is a Steven Adams type of center that isn't flashy but has few weaknesses but makes winning plays. Poeltl is the kind of big man Boston has lacked since Brad Stevens' arrival. The fact that Ainge went to BYU and Poeltl played for Utah, well...
04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18
This would be ideal for Phoenix, as Bender is exactly the kind of player they need. A dirty-work type of guy who can defend at a high level and projects as a good enough shooter to space the floor. However, with Phoenix it is always dicey, how will they view themselves? As just a young piece away from contention, unwilling to wait to develop a player like Bender? If so, a more pro-ready player might be more of what they consider, such as Buddy Hield. However, if they are willing to be patient and form their team around a young core of Devin Booker and a prospect like Bender (as they should) then they will be looking a different batch of prospects, like Bender or Jaylen Brown. Seriously though, the marketing of the Killer Bs in Booker, Bender and Bledsoe? Worth it just for that. Then what if they traded up and drafted Brown? Then drafted Ben Bentil and Joel Bolomboy? Okay, I'll stop.
05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19
The Timberwolves, exploding with young talent, will have a chance to add another peice to their world domination plan. With four of their starting five set, Minnesota could look towards a power forward to fill the void there, and players like Deyonta Davis and Marquese Chriss certainly make some sense there, they shouldn't force it in the power forward spot, especially since they might want a more veteran player there, via free agency. Instead, improving their shooting should be a priority. If Tom Thibodeau wants someone with more defensive potential that will be ready to step in early on, Buddy Hield makes a ton of sense. However, if they are targeting upside, Jamal Murray seems like a logical fit that could really help stabilize the second unit in the future. A sweet shooting combo guard that can create a little and would give them another scoring option on the perimeter. Murray is probably best suited to the bench, at least early on because he has yet to show he can consistent create against athletic defenders yet and wouldn't face the best of the best NBA guards playing second units.
06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22
Outside of Jrue Holiday, is there an above-average, healthy player on New Orleans' roster? Anthony Davis doesn't even fit into that category. The Pelicans have completely wasted a top five player with terrible trades, signings, and the possibly the league's worst medical staff. Now that they finally have a draft pick again, the Pelicans can start their rebuild, provided they can get out of their own first. Hield would make sense here, as would any of the power forwards in the draft. However if Kris Dunn falls this far (which seems likely given the lack of need for a point guard among the picks above), he seems like the most logical direction for New Orleans, that struggled to defend and create offense last season, two thing that Dunn should help with. Plus, with his size and length, Dunn should be able to function alongside Holiday, but without the pressures of leading the offense until ready.
07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Jaylen Brown, SF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19
The Nuggets have so many young players on their rosters and three picks in the first round of this draft, so they have a great deal of flexibility. One of the options they have with so much draft capital is to take a risk or two. Jaylen Brown is risky because he hasn't put it all together on the floor yet. However, his physical tools are outstanding and he fits into the small-ball revolution as a potential small forward. With Danilo Gallinari's future far from certain, a combo forward like Brown could be groomed as his replacement in a year or two, filling the role of shot creator and foul-drawer in Denver. It will also be crucial that Brown ends up a team where he isn't under pressure to be a large role right away and has the time to develop and ease into the league.
08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22
The Kings have to be hoping that Hield is available here, he is really an ideal fit for what they need both on and off the court. Sacramento had a really big spacing issue last season, as well as another drama filled season in the front office, coaching staff, and players. Hield is as close to an NBA ready shooting guard as you are going to find, he is an excellent outside shooter and has the tools to be a good defensive player. Perhaps even more importantly, Hield is a high character, hard-working player that gets along well with teammates and would be a step in the right direction when it comes to rebuilding the culture in Sacramento.
09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Deyonta Davis, F/C Michigan (6-11, 237) Age: 19
The Raptors, benefiting from the Knicks mistakes, get a rare chance to add a top ten pick to a conference finals team. With Bismack Biyombo's impending free agency and a hole already existing at power forward for Toronto, they will have their choice of several big man options here if they so choose. I have always been an advocate for good teams swinging for the fences when given the chance to draft high, in which case Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere would be possibilities, has however if they wish to go a safer route, Henry Ellenson provides a more stable floor. In this scenario, they split the difference with Deyonta Davis, a physically blessed big man who still has a ton of room to grow, but also with the floor of a solid rebounder/defender with potential for a nice perimeter game with some polish down the road. Add to that the size to play center and you have a logical choice for Toronto.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Skal Labissiere, PF Kentucky (7-0, 216) Age: 20
The Bucks seem to favor high upside talent and the upside doesn't get much higher than Skal Labissiere. Also, because the two foundational young pieces on their roster (Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker) are both for the most part inside the three-point line players, it makes a lot of sense to look to add someone like Labissiere who has a wonderful stroke that should work from the three point line eventually. Labissiere is a work in progress in many areas, but Milwaukee has shown a willingness to draft and develop raw players and would seem to be a good landing place for Labissiere, who needs patience and confidence from a coach willing to us him in the areas he excels, things he didn't get at Kentucky.
11. Orlando Magic: Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21
Don't be surprised if this pick ends up in a deal, as Orlando seems done with rebuilding and want to go all in with free agency this summer and may look to trade for pieces as well. If they use this pick, they might shoot for the high upside talent GM Rob Hennigan has favored in the past of they could look for more instant contribution. Demetrius Jackson certainly has upside, but he is further along in his development than say a Marquese Chriss. Orlando clearly thinks Elfrid Payton is the point guard of their future (despite much evidence to the contrary) which was a primary reason for Scott Skiles resignation. However, they lack any kind of quality backup, which is a role Jackson should be able to play early on in his career. Also, because of his shooting ability and Payton's size, the two could easily play alongside one another, if Orlando insists on playing a point guard with a .478 TS%.
12. Utah Jazz: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-3, 202) Age: 20
The Jazz missed out on the playoffs last season in large part because of terrible point guard play. Now, part of that wasn't there fault due to Dante Exum's unfortunate injury, but relying inexperienced Exum, coming off a serious knee injury seem pa the height of folly without a backup plan. Wade Baldwin IV probably isn't ready to lead an NBA offense, but in Utah he wouldn't have to. The Jazz have many creators on the wing who could supplement Baldwin until he is more comfortable as the lead guard, leaving him free to knock down 3s (something he did with a greater than 40% success rate in college) and use his size, athletic ability and absurd 6-11+ wingspan to defend. Both he and Exum can play alongside one another, giving Utah two versatile players how can both shoot and defend, something their point struggled to do last season.
13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19
If they make more of a long term investment at power forward at pick 4, the Suns could use their second of three first rounders on a more immediate contributor, whether that be a wing like Timothe Luwawu or Denzel Valentine or a big man in the vein of Henry Ellenson. If their first pick is a safer prospect, they could take a high upside flier on the likes of Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere. Ellenson has a ways to go defensively, but he has the tools to be average in that area, which is all he would need to be because of his versatile offensive skillset and rebounding. Though he shot poorly from deep in college, Ellenson projects as an above-average stretch big with the additional playmaking and post-scoring abilities of a modern NBA big man.
14. Chicago Bulls: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18
Though they will likely never admit to it, the Bulls are entering a different phase of their franchise history, one that is closer to rebuilding than contending. With the all but inevitable departures of Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol, the Bulls frontcourt will need to be rebuilt around Bobby Portis, Christiano Felicio, Taj Gibson, and Nikola Mirotic, the first two of which are unproven, while the latter two are flawed in one way or another. Marquese Chriss certainly has a higher upside than any of them, though he is still very early on in his development and might take some time to adjust and learn the NBA game. However, if it all clicks you have a tremendously athletic power forward that can both shoot the ball and attack the basket off the dribble. He isn't in the usual "proven college player" mold the Bulls like, but at this point he is too good to pass up on. The Bulls could also use a point guard and a wing that can both shoot and defend, meaning they will take a long look at the likes of Demetrius Jackson, Wade Baldwin IV, Timothe Luwawu, and Denzel Valentine.
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Tuesday, March 1, 2016
2016 NBA Mock Lottery (4/16)
Mock drafts prior to the reveling of the actual lottery and draft order are pretty silly, but since usually the changes are minor, we can at least gain a little insight into what things will look like on draft night and what teams may be thinking. This is what I believe, without any inside information, is most likely to happen at this exact moment subject to massive changes before draft night.
Prior to Sam Hinkie's resignation, Brandon Ingram would have been the obvious choice here, however with Bryan Collangelo now in charge with presumably a mandate to make the Sixers competitive and marketable fast, it seems highly likely they will look to draft a more hyped, popular player who may be more ready to contribute from day one. Simmons is a poor fit, in my opinion, but with conventional wisdom now reigning once again in Philadelphia, Simmons seems likely to be the guy.
02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke
While they may be more interested in landing a quote star un-quote in the draft, Ingram is a much more obvious fit in LA, where the Lakers are severely lacking in both defensive players and shooters. Ingram also doesn't overlap positionaly with Julius Randle like Simmons would. If the lottery holds true and it goes Sixers #1 and Lakers #2, I would expect LA to draft whomever Philadephia doesn't draft between Ingram and Simmons and be completely happy with that.
03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF California
This is the toughest pick to project, based on currant draft standing, because Boston is playoff team without a ton of obvious needs (excluding a true super-star, which you most likely aren't finding in this draft) so where do they go? Dragan Bender is the best prosper available (and the best in the draft, in my opinion) but he isn't a player likely to have an immediate impact and might not even come to the NBA right away. Add to that, the Celtics are sort of piled up in the frontcourt. Jaylen Brown, on the other hand, is also somewhat of a project but fits into the Celtics multiple offense and would be an intruiging 1-2 forward punch with Jae Crowder which would allow Boston to switch everything and be and even more threatening transition team. They could also trade the pick and throw everything off.
04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv
A couple of wins late in the season dropped the Suns from the third best odds to the fourth, which could be the difference between getting one of the top tier of three prospects and not. In this scenario, if Boston is unwilling to take a project in Dragan Bender, the Suns could still luck out. After trading Markeiff Morris and now potentially losing Mirza Teletovic and Jon Leuer (backups at best) power forward is an area of longterm weakness in Phoenix. Bender is a stupendous prospect with special potential as a defender and the tools to become a versatile offensive player, just what Phoenix needs.
05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky
Aside from power forward, the Timberwolves have their starting five set (barring a Ricky Rubio trade) and with no power forward that really fits this draft range, they can look to something else they need: shooting and shot creation. Murray is an excellent shooter and while the jury may be out on his ability to consistently create at the next level, he has a good offensive feel and may fit better in the NBA where more space is available. If they trade Ricky Rubio, Kris Dunn could be and option, and if they believe a power forward is necessary, a versatile offensive player like Henry Ellenson could be an interesting fit with Karl-Anthony Towns.
06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence
While Jrue Holiday, point guard, is one of New Orleans' two actually good players under contract, both he and Kris Dunn are big enough and have the defensive chops to defend shooting guards (in fact, Dunn is actually bigger than Eric Gordon) and Holiday can shoot well enough to make this pair work. Dunn is a great defenive prospect, a killer in transition, and a willing half-court player that should flourish as a third option in the more spacious NBA. Buddy Hield, as a more traditional shooting guard, is another option, as is a potential Ryan Anderson replacement in Henry Ellenson.
07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette
The Nuggets have a ton of big men, but none of their power forwards are particularly skilled offensively (unless you include Danillo Gallinari who is injured often and possibly trade-bait). Henry Ellenson is a versatile offensive player with potential as a three-point shooter. He is a project defensively, but Mike Malone is known to get the best out of such players. They have depth in most spots on their roster and could go in many ways but Ellenson makes a lot of sense as a compliment to Kenneth Faried at power forward.
08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma
This is a marriage of player and team that just needs to happen. Hield could (foolishly) go earlier but if he is there, or if the Kings can acquire him by trade, it is something that would be perfect for them both on and off the court. Hield is exactly the type of player Sacramento needs, a knockdown three point shooter that is terrific moving off the ball. He is also a high character individual and tireless worker, the type of leader that the Kings desperately need. Make it happen, Vlade Divac (but don't give up too much)
09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Marquese Chriss, PF Washington
The Raptors love taking high-upside projects, and while their thinking may change this picking this high, I doubt it. Marquese Chriss, with work, could seriously be their starting power forward of the future, something they aren't particularly set up with at this point. Chriss has the potential to be a dynamite offensive player that can shoot and drive. He is a raw player that very much needs to learn the game, but the tools are off the charts.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Jakob Poeltl, C Utah
Another perfect marriage of player/team. Since they made the change from Zaza Pachulia to Greg Monroe, the Bucks haven't been the same team. The need someone who an excell on the defensive glass, protect the rim, and set good screens, which are all areas that Poeltl could excel at. Monroe, if he isn't traded, could still be gone after next season, which would open the door for Poeltl full time. Last season, Milwaukee brought Monroe of the bench and started Miles Plumlee. Poeltl could do the same, and be much better than Plumlee.
11. Orlando Magic: Ivan Rabb, PF California
The Magic have big plans when it comes to adding free agents this summer, so they could trade this pick to save space or draft a stash prospect, however if they do go with a prospect that could play this year for them, power forward is an area they could address. Aaron Gordon is already blossoming into a star, but Jason Smith also played heavy minutes last season as his backup, which translates to you need another backup power forward, particularly since Smith is a free agent this summer. Ivan Rabb is a very solid player, smart and skilled. He is limit in some ways, but should be a good option for rebounding, defense, and some inside-out scoring off the bench.
12. Utah Jazz: Demetrius Jackson, PG Norte Dame
Even if Dante Exum returns to full strength next season, Utah will still need a point guard because the poo-poo platter of Shelvin Mack, Raul Neto, and Trey Burke just isn't going to cut it for a playoff team, especially if Exum (who has a ways to go himself) isn't back to full-strength. Demetrius Jackson is better than all those other options, a dynamic athlete that has a long track record of excellent outside shooting and tough defense. He could backup Exum or play alongside him, due to Exum's excellent size. Utah needs a point guard that can create, defend, and shoot, not just one of those things.
13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks
With their second first round pick in the draft, the Suns can look to shore up another area of need, small forward (or power forward if they draft, say, Jaylen Brown with their earlier pick). With what appears to be three high-usage guards on the roster, the Suns need players to go with them that don't need the ball to be valueable. Timothe Luwawu looks to be that type of player, a versatile defensive wing with potential in that area as well as shooting the ball, where he has made great strides of late, however his low release is still somewhat of a question mark.
14. Chicago Bulls: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State
This seems like the kind of pick the Bulls seem to like. A decorated four year college player that can probably play very soon in his young career. Denzel Valentine is not without his faults (defense) but he seems like an ideal fit in Fred Hoiberg's offense because he is a knockdown shooter with tremendous vision and passing ability. Another option is fellow Spartan Deyonta Davis, who could be the first step in rebuilding the beleaguered Bulls frontcourt, once a source of so much depth, not possibly losing both Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah. The same could be said about Domantas Sabonis, who is the kind of skilled player that could excel under Hoiberg.
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