Philadelphia 76ers Draft Preview

3. Joel Embiid, C Kansas Fr. (7-1, 265)

Yes, Embiid is a risk, but he is also the best NBA prospect in the draft and could be a true superstar in the NBA if healthy. While the foot injury coming so recently after the back injury are concerning, neither should be a career altering injury if healed properly. On the court, Embiid has the potential to be a 20 point, 10 rebound, perennial DPOY candidate in time. He may have to sit out the whole year, but the 76ers aren't going to challenge for anything anyways, best to get him fully healthy and handled by a professional medical staff for a year. Many analysts have been critical of the Sixers plan to be terrible for another year at least, but it makes much more sense than overvaluing your young players, trying to add veterans, and then being mediocre. If Philadelphia really wants to win a title, not just be an okay team that does nothing meaningful in the playoffs, they need more talent than this draft could provide. Will fans be annoyed at the awful basketball for at least another year? Probably, but they'll be packing the place in a few years if the Sixers become the new Thunder instead of the new Hawks or Cavs.

12. Dario Saric, F Croatia (6-10, 223)

Saric also fits into Philadephia's plan to stink for a while longer because he is unlikely to come to the NBA this year or even next, but when the plan begins to come together he should be ready to come over and even more developed than he is, as one of the best young players in Europe. Saric is an attacking forward with incredible court vision and basketball IQ. He still needs to become a better shooter, though he has improved in that area. On talent he deserved to be in the top 10, only his contract situation Europe caused him to drop some.

32. K.J. McDaniels, SF Clemson Jr. (6-6, 196)

The 76ers love to play at a very fast pace offensively and with a hectic, gambling style on defense so taking a top athlete with great range, leaping ability, and defensive instincts makes a lot of sense. McDaniels can cover a lot of ground (and air) defensively and he makes a ton of plays on that end, averaging 1.1 steals and 2.8 blocks(!) per game in his last college season. He is a streaky shooter but is awesome in transition and can score attacking the rim as well.

39. Jerami Grant, F Syracuse So. (6-8, 214)

Grant is very similar to McDaniels, and both are first round talents who fell because some questionable talents were pushed up ahead of them. Grant has long arms (7-3 wingspan) and is very explosive and mobile. He projects defensively at either forward position, but it is his offense that will likely determine where he ends up playing. Grant has shown promise as a shooter and can attack the rim, but isn't a huge threat in any area yet on that end. Where he'll thrive is on defense and the glass, where his physical gifts should help him have an impact, much like McDaniels.

52. Vasilije Micic, PG Croatia (6-6, 202)

Another international player with legitimate talent who may not see the NBA for a year or two. Micic has great size and is an excellent ball-handler and passer. He isn't much of a scoring threat and will likely struggle defensively, though his size will help. Though Michael Carter-Williams is seemingly intrenched as the starting point for the foreseeable future, Micic projects a perfect backup down the line because of his ability to run an offense and be a distributor while backup minutes will mitigate his defensive liability.

54. Nemanja Dangubic, SG Yugoslavia (6-8, 193)

Dangubic had a great Euro Camp to get on NBA radars and though he probably won't ever play in the NBA and is already 21, there is some intruiging talent here and a chance everything goes well and he become NBA quality. That is really the value of second round picks, it gives you a lottery ticket with no risk whatsoever. Any second round pick that hits immediately becomes an incredibly inexpensive contributor.

58. Jordan McRae, SG Tennessee Sr. (6-5, 179)

Another long athlete, Jordan McRae didn't really breakout until his Senior season, when he finally started to find some consistency with his jumper. He could always get to the basket but the improvement of his shooting led to his best season as a collegian. McRae has a good chance to make Philadelphia's rebuilding team and could even develop into a Quincy Pondexter-type contributor if his jumpshot continues to develop. 

Current Lineup

PG: Michael Carter-Williams/Tony Wroten Jr.

SG: James Anderson/Jason Richardson/Jordan McRae

SF: K.J. McDaniels/Hollis Thompson

PF: Thaddeus Young/Jerami Grant

C: Nerlens Noel/Arnett Moultrie

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Milwaukee Bucks Draft Review

2. Jabari Parker, F Duke Fr. (6-9, 241)

Not the best player available, but probably the pick that Milwaukee needed to make because Parker is a (relatively) local guy and has the chance to be a "star" in the marketing sense, as well as providing a lot of value on the floor. Apparently the Bucks want to use him at power forward, which is probably the best ways to maximize his talents offensively and limit his potential defensive struggles. Whatever position he plays he will score and score a lot. Parker is the first step in what needs to be a pretty big rebuild, which will have to include trading several forwards and centers, because with Parker and the Bucks next two picks, the Bucks have a big logjam in their frontcourt.

31. Damien Ingles, F French Guiana (6-8, 240)

Ingles is the opposite Parker, raw offensively but a defensive ace. Ingles is strong, athletic, and has a massive 7-3 wingspan which should allow him to match up with both 3s and 4s defensively. On offense he has a ways to go, not much of a shooter or a ball-handler, but at just 19 there is hope in that respect. Ingles is going to come over and play for the Bucks right away, but unless they make many aforementioned trades, I am not sure he's going to get much playing time to help develop.

36. Johnny O'Bryant, PF LSU Jr. (6-9, 250)

O'Bryant has been underrated throughout the process because he has the ability to score around the basket, rebound, and block shots with some perimeter skills as well. I like his chances to fit as a fifth big man on a roster, however the Bucks are so crammed at power forward, there is a good chance he ends up in the D-League until their roster is cleared out. The Bucks have drafted a number of long, athletic shot-blockers without a lot of offensive skill, so O'Bryant is a nice compliment to that.

Projected Lineup

PG: Brandon Knight/Nate Wolters

SG: O.J. Mayo

SF: Giannis Antetokounmpo/Khris Middleton/Carlos Delfino/Damien Ingles

PF: Jabari Parker/Ersan Ilyasova/John Henson/Johnny O'Bryant

C: Larry Sanders/Zaza Pachulia/Miroslav Raduljica

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Cleveland Cavaliers Draft Review

1. Andrew Wiggins, SF Kansas Fr. (6-9, 200)
If the Cavaliers were too scared off by Embiid, then Wiggins is absolutely the right pick. I understand the appeal of Jabari Parker, but a player who not only doesn't have the physical ability to be an above-average defender, but also doesn't give much effort or attention on that end shouldn't be the top overall pick. That goes doubly so when the team drafting there is built around a core of other lackadaisical defensive players. Wiggins may not be the offensive player Parker is yet, but he is a plus in that area as well as on defense, where Parker is a minus. Wiggins should play 30+ minutes a game, every game next season for the Cavaliers and help them be a better team in the short term, but also develop into a superstar long term.

32. Joe Harris, SG Virginia Sr. (6-6, 215)

After taking Wiggins number 1, the Cavs dipped into the college Senior pool for two low-risk picks that have a good chance of panning out as role players. Joe Harris has the better chance to stick because he can make three-point shots and play very hard on the defensive end. Harris is limited athletically and has short arms, making it unlikely that he will be anything more than average defensively. Still, giving effort on defense is more than you can say for the rest of the Cavs guards. Another plus for Harris is he doesn't need to have the ball in his hands to contribute offensively, which also differentiates him from Cleveland's guards.

45. Dwight Powell, PF Stanford Sr. (6-11, 234)

Powell came over to the Cavs in a trade involving Alonzo Gee, and though he is just a second round pick, he has a chance to make the Cavs roster because he is athletic and can shoot. His three-point shot dropped off this last season, but his stroke is good and he should be able to be at the very least an average midrange shooter. Due to his athleticism and length, Powell should be able to hold his own defensively as well. While he is no lock to make the roster, as a fifth big man with upside, you can certainly do worse

Projected Lineup
PG: Kyrie Irving/Jarrett Jack
SG: Dion Waiters/Joe Harris/Sergey Karasev
SF: Andrew Wiggins/
PF: Tristan Thompson/Anthony Bennett/Dwight Powell
C: Anderson Varejao/Tyler Zeller

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2014 NBA Draft Top 40 Rankings

Tier 1: High-Ceiling Game Changers

1. Joel Embiid, C Kansas Fr. (7-1, 265)

What Works Now

Size, fluidity, and athleticism. Embiid has burgeoning offensive ability and plays top level defense. He has the potential to be a dominant player on both ends of the court who averages 20 and 10 with All-NBA defense.

What Doesn't

Possibly his back, which obviously would have a huge impact on his career. 

2. Andrew Wiggins, SF Kansas Fr. (6-9, 200)

What Works Now

Top level physical gifts, including an mind-bending first step. Special scoring ability in transition and off the dribble, very good shooting stroke with improving consistency. DPOY potential with excellent present ability in that area.

What Doesn't

Strength handling the ball, overall polish and consistency.

3. Dante Exum, G Australia (6-6, 196)

What Works Now

Tall, athletic guard with long arms and quickness. Excellent playmaking and ball-handling skills with natural ability to create for himself and others. Ceiling is a top 5 point guard with great defense, floor is a skilled shooting guard with average defense.

What Doesn't

Consistent shooting. Polish and experience running an offense.

Tier 2: High-Floor Game Changers

4. Jabari Parker, F Duke Fr. (6-9, 235)

What Works Now
Offense. Parker can score all over the floor, in the post, from deep, as well as handle the ball and pass. A potential efficient 25+ point scorer in his prime.

What Doesn't
Defense. Parker can struggle moving laterally and vertically and, most troubling of all, gives poor effort defensively. 

5. Julius Randle, PF Kentucky Fr. (6-9, 250)

What Works Now

High-effort, physical post scorer that can command double teams. Also and excellent rebounder and foul magnet. Has shown the ability to shoot the ball from the outside as well. Potential 20-10 power forward.

What Doesn't

Ability to score against top size and length and consistent shooting stroke. Likely won't be much more than an average defensive player.

Tier 3: Early Starters (Who Could Become Game Changers)

6. Noah Vonleh, PF Indiana Fr. (6-10, 247)

What Works Now

Physical tools, toughness, motor, rebounding, defense and burgeoning offensive abilities. Vonleh's best offensive weapon is his jumpshot, which really improved throughout the season. 

What Doesn't

Vonleh needs to improve and polish his ability to score inside and overall just gain experience. Short track record of consistent shooting. Despite apparent offensive ability, wasn't a big time scorer in college on a team that needed offense.

7. Aaron Gordon, PF Arizona Fr. (6-9, 220)

What Works Now

Defense. Gordon has the physical ability as well the toughness, motor, and instincts to be an special defensive player capable of guarding both wings and big. Athleticism and instincts to make an impact on the glass, passing the ball, and in the open court. Plays smart and very hard.

What Doesn't

Offense. Outside of dunks and lobs, not much of a threat to score. Shot needs serious work, including free throws. Needs a consistent move in the post. 

8. Marcus Smart, G Oklahoma State So. (6-3, 227)

What Works Now

Intensity on both ends of the court. Smart is an excellent defender who uses his instincts and athletic ability to block shots, create turnovers, draw fouls, and rebound. He is at his best when he aggressively attacks the basket.

What Doesn't

Smart isn't a natural point guard and may take some time to learn the nuances of the position. He also is not a good shooter who likes to shoot. 

9. Dario Saric, F Croatia (6-10, 223)
What Works Now

Instincts, versatility and intelligence. Saric is able to handle the ball and pass like a point guard despite being the size of a power forward. He is also an excellent rebound and improving shooter.

What Doesn't

Saric still isn't a consistent shooter and he lacks the physical ability to be much more than an average defensive player. 

Tier 4: Early Starters

10. Elfrid Payton, PG Louisiana-Lafayette Jr. (6-4, 185)

What Works Now

Aggressiveness, quickness, and defense. Payton is one of the best in this draft at attacking the rim and drawing fouls. He is also capable of running an offense and finding teammates. One of the best perimeter defenders in the draft.

What Doesn't

His jumpshot. Will likely always be more of a scorer than a pure point guard.

11. Nik Stauskas, SG Michigan So. (6-7, 207)

What Works Now

Stauskas' jumpshot and playmaking ability. He is the best shooter in the draft with a quick release and long range. Has the ball handling and passing ability to be at least a part time point guard.

What Doesn't

Due to limited athleticism and short arms, he will likely struggle defensively and may not be able to create off the dribble quick as easily in the NBA.

12. Gary Harris, SG Michigan State So. (6-5, 205)

What Works Now

Offensive and defensive versatility. Harris is a threat to score from the outside or on the drive and can guard multiple positions on the perimeter. 

What Doesn't

His jumpshot is inconsistent and he isn't overwhelming in any area.

13. Jusuf Nurkic, C Bosnia (6-11, 280)

What Works Now

Great size, strength, hands, and touch. Nurkic is huge and has natural post scoring ability with improving polish on his skillset. He should be a force on the glass as well.

What Doesn't

Nurkic has struggled with conditioning and isn't a great athlete, which may affect areas of his defense.

Tier 5: Early Contributors

14. Kristaps Porzingis, C Latvia (6-11, 220)

What Works Now

Athleticism, mobility, and a burgeoning offensive skillset. Porzingis, who is only 18, has a nice perimeter game and can block shots and rebound. He has great IQ and instincts on both ends of the court

What Doesn't

He needs to add a lot of strength and is not physically ready to battle in the paint in the NBA right now. There is some inherent risk due to his age and reliance on jumpshots.

15. Doug McDermott, F Creighton Sr. (6-8, 218)

What Works Now

McDermott is an outstanding shooter, one of the best in the draft, as well as having great scoring instincts and a high IQ, as well as being an above-average rebounder.

What Doesn't

A lack NBA level physical ability may bring about some struggles versus athletic defenders and limit his defensive impact significantly. In college he blocked 14 shots and got 34 steals in 4,570 career minutes!

16. Tyler Ennis, PG Syracuse Fr. (6-3, 182)

What Works Now

Well-rounded, steady point guard play. Ennis is a very good ball-handler, passer, and plays under control at any speed, limiting turnovers. He also have some scoring and shooting acumen.

What Doesn't

Ennis may struggle defensively and isn't a great finisher at the rim right now. Also just an average shooter at this point.

17. T.J. Warren, F North Carolina State So. (6-8, 220)

What Works Now

Warren is one of the most instinctive,  natural scorers in the draft. He finds ways to score in transition, off cuts, and in the paint.

What Doesn't

Though Warren scores well, he is not a good shooter, which may trouble some teams. That lack of shooting, plus a questionable defensive profile make him seem more like a bench option.

18. Adreian Payne, PF Michigan State Sr. (6-10, 239)

What Works Now

Instant impact on both ends of the floor. Payne is physically ready for the NBA and should provide the useful combination of interior defense and outside shooting.

What Doesn't

At 23, there is little upside left in Payne. Add to that he has been an underachiever in that past and doesn't always use his physical gifts to dominate, there is some risk here.

19. P.J. Hairston, SG NBDL (6-5, 229)

What Works Now

Shooting and upside. Right now his calling card is a sweet jumpshot, but Hairston also has the build of a power guard and can overpower opponents at the rim, with room to grow in this area.

What Doesn't

Perhaps his attitude. Hairston was dismissed from the North Carolina basketball team. He can also become a little one dimensional.

Tier 6: Quality Role-Players

20. Clint Capela, F/C Switzerland (6-11, 222)

What Works Now
Athleticism, length, defense, and rebounding. Capela has succeeded at a high level defensively playing professionally in France, and has the physical tools to become even better.

What Doesn't
Capela lacks above-average offensive instincts at this point and is a ways away from being able to contribute much on that end.

21. Cleanthony Early, SF Wichita State Sr. (6-7, 209)

What Works Now

Shooting and athleticism. Early has blossomed into quite the threat with his jumpshot and is also dangerous in transition.

What Doesn't

Upside. Early is 23 already. There are also questions about his ability to create his own shot.

22. Rodney Hood, G/F Duke So. (6-9, 208)

What Works Now

Shooting and size. With his great height and shooting ability, Hood will find a place in the league because he can get his shot off and it should go in quite a big,

What Doesn't

Hood lacks great athleticism and has short arms, which may lead to him struggling to defend. He also doesn't create well for himself off the dribble and is a one-dimensional scorer.

23. Mitch McGary, PF Michigan So. (6-10, 250)

What Works Now
Effort and unique skill. McGary isn't a great offensive threat, but he plays very hard, rebounds, plays frenetic help defense, and is a surprisingly good ball-handler and passer.

What Doesn't
Possibly his back. McGary missed most of last season with a serious back injury. Also, he has a short track record of success based on several college games and a high school resume built on beating up on younger opponents.

24. C.J. Wilcox SG Washington Sr. (6-5, 201)

What Works Now
Shooting and defense. Wilcox is a very good, consistent shooter who also has some other natural scoring instincts as well. He is a good athlete and committed defender who looks like he can be a 3-and-D wing. 

What Doesn't
Wilcox is turning 24 this year, limiting his upside. 

25. Shabazz Napier, PG Connecticut Sr. (6-1, 175)

What Works Now
Toughness, scoring, and versatility. Napier is a well rounded guard who can get his own shot, create for others, and rebound.

What Doesn't
He is undersized, even for a point guard, and may struggle physically on both ends, especially because he is more of a scorer that a pure point. Turing 23 this year.

26. Vasilije Micic, PG Croatia (6-6, 202)

What Works Now
Size and passing ability. Micic is a pure point guard who terrific court vision and passing ability, his height helps him see 

What Doesn't
Micic isn't an outstanding shooter or scorer, and though his size is an asset defensively, he can still struggle on that end.

27. Jerami Grant, F Syracuse So. (6-8, 214)

What Works Now

Defense, motor, and physical ability. Grant has tremendous length (7-3 wingspan) and is very explosive and mobile. He should be able to guard multiple positions, block shots, and create turnovers. Grant can also attack off the dribble and is obviously a great finisher.

What Doesn't

Right now Grant isn't all there offensively and needs to work on a consistent jumpshot and tighten up his handle. Even if he never develops much there, he can still be a Luc Richard Mbah a Moute-type. 

28. K.J. McDaniels, SF Clemson Jr. (6-6, 196)

What Works Now

See Jerami Grant.

What Doesn't

See Jerami Grant.

Tier 7: High-Risk, High-Reward

29. Spencer Dinwiddie, G Colorado Jr. (6-6, 205)

What Works Now

Size, versatility, and skill. When healthy, Dinwiddie is a tall, skilled combo guard who can handle the ball, slash, and shoot. He has also shown some ability as a playmaker who could play point guard at least part of the time. Also has a great mustache.

What Doesn't

Possibly his knee. Dinwiddie's season ended with a torn ACL, so there is definitely risk there, especially since he wasn't a top athlete before hand. If not for the injury, Dinwiddie would be 10-15 spots higher.

30. Zach LaVine, SG UCLA Fr. (6-6, 181)

What Works Now

Top notch athleticism, shooting, and upside. LaVine is an explosive athlete and a good, albeit somewhat streaky shooter. He also has some upside as a ball-handler and potential, though small, chance to be point guard.

What Doesn't

LaVine isn't a point guard right now, takes bad shots, and is a streaky shooter. He also doesn't make great use of his athleticism on either end of the court: 6 blocks in 904 minutes for a 6-6 player with a 41.5 inch vertical is embarrassing.  

31. James Young, G/F Kentucky Fr. (6-7, 213)

What Works Now
Smooth athleticism and offensive skills. At certain moments, Young looks tremendous; smooth and able to get his own shot and score from the outside. He even makes plays for teammates occasionally.

What Doesn't
Young's talents are surface level at this point and he is wildly inconsistent. He takes terrible shots, is streaky, and a poor defender mostly because the mental side of his game is lacking

32. Kyle Anderson, F UCLA So. (6-9, 230)

What Works Now
Offensive versatility. Anderson is a pure point guard in a power forward's body and has also really improved his shooting ability from deep and in the mid-range.

What Doesn't
His fit on many teams. Also, Anderson is a limited athlete who may struggle defensively and to get by defenders at the next level.

34. Artem Klimenko, C Russia (7-1, 228)

What Works Now
Size, defense, and upside. Klimenko is huge, has long arms, and can be a game changer on defense with some added strength and experience.

What Doesn't
He isn't athletically explosive and doesn't move super well laterally. On offense, he needs a lot of work but has the tools to be very good down the line.

34. Glenn Robinson III, SF Michigan So. (6-7, 211)

What Works Now
Athleticism and bloodlines. GR3, son of Big Dog Robinson, is an explosive athlete with terrific potential both ends of the court.

What Doesn't

Right now he is a ways away from reaching that potential, as he needs to improve both as a ballhandler and a shooter.

35. Jarnell Stokes, PF Tennessee Jr. (6-9, 263)

What Works Now
Stokes is an old-school, physical, below the rim post player who is also an excellent rebounder and gives good effort on the defensive end.

What Doesn't
There aren't a ton of players who fit Stokes' profile in the NBA anymore and his lack of vertical explosiveness may hinder his ability to score and defend in the NBA.

36. Jordan Clarkson, G Missouri Jr. (6-5, 186)

What Works Now
Ball-handling, athleticism, and size. Clarkson is a big combo guard who has the potential to convert to playing point guard.

What Doesn't
It is still a long shot for Clarkson to become a point guard, and if he isn't he is simply an undersized point guard who is an inconsistent shooter.

Tier 8: Make the Team

37. Joe Harris, SG Virginia Sr. (6-6, 216)

What Works Now
Shooting and defensive effort. Harris has a long track record of tremendous shooting and also plays very hard on the other end of the court.

What Doesn't

Harris has limited upside and isn't the type of athlete that usually becomes anything more than an above average defender.

38. Patric Young, F/C Florida Sr. (6-10, 247)

What Works Now
Strength, toughness, and athleticism. Young has been a rock solid defender in the paint at Florida for his whole career.

What Doesn't
He is undersized for his natural position of center and he doesn't have more than just rudimentary offensive skills. He is also a tremendously underwhelming rebounder who hasn't improved in that area at all.

39. Russ Smith, G Louisville Sr. (6-1, 160)

What Works Now
Smith is quick, can score in a multitude of ways and has improved as a offensive initiator over the course of his career.

What Doesn't
He still takes bad shots and is very undersized for even a point guard. Can play out of control at times.

40. Johnny O'Bryant, PF LSU Jr. (6-9, 257)

What Works Now
Offensive skill. O'Bryant is a traditional offensive big who can also step out and hit jumpers. He is a good rebounder and plays hard defense.

What Doesn't
O'Bryant, like Stokes, is an average athlete that may struggle against NBA athletes on both offense and defense.

Others to watch: Jahii Carson, PG Arizona State; Isaiah Austin, C Baylor; Jordan Adams, SG UCLA; Semaj Christon, G Xavier; Deonte Burton, PG Nevada; Walter Tavares, C Spain; 

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NBA Draft: 5 Perfect Fits in the First Round

A big part of the success factor in the NBA draft is find the correct fit for both team and player, whether it be filling a need, utilizing a skillset, or putting the player in a position to maximize strengths and limit weaknesses. While there may be no "perfect" fits, there are several throughout the first round that would really benefit both player and team.

1. Aaron Gordon and the Sacramento Kings

Since drafting DeMarcus Cousins, the Kings have tried Jason Thompson, Thomas Robinson, and Patrick Patterson at the power forward position and never really found the right fit. While his offense still has a ways to go, Aaron Gordon of Arizona has a knack for doing everything else on the court. He is an excellent defender who can guard both forward positions, blocks shots, and create turnovers. While playing next to Cousins doesn't require a top rebounder, Gordon is also very good on the glass. Offensively, Gordon needs to develop his jumper to space the floor, but his ability to handle the ball, pass, and play unselfishly well help to mitigate that. And Cousins can handle more of the inside scoring load anyway, taking pressure off Gordon early in his career. Also, he is very good running the floor which fits nicely alongside Isaiah Thomas, Derrick Williams, and Ben McLemore. Gordon plays very hard on both ends and is willing to do the dirty work to help his team win. I honestly think he would help any team that drafts him, but the Kings are an especially nice fit.

2. Elfrid Payton and the Chicago Bulls

While most point to the Bulls lack of shooting as their biggest issue (it definitely is one), their main issue on offense is the lack of a shot-creator when Derrick Rose is unavailable. They simply lack players who can take the ball and create a shot for themselves or teammates. Louisiana-Lafayette's Elfrid Payton probably won't help the Bulls lack of shooting much, but his ability to penetrate, score, and pass are exactly what Chicago needs behind Rose, and even alongside him. Payton is also excellent at drawing fouls, (another area the Bulls are lacking in) he shot 293 free throws last season, 8.6 per game. Added to all that, Payton is one of the best perimeter defenders in the draft and averaged 2.3 steals a game. Whether Rose is healthy or not, the Bulls need playmakers and Payton is one of the best in the draft.

3. T.J. Warren and the Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks offense is built around bigs Al Horford and Paul Millsap and small guards Jeff Teague or Lou Williams, and shooters. However, they don't have any big wings who are really a threat to score on their own. North Carolina State's T.J. Warren is an unusual player, but an effective scorer. He doesn't shoot from deep very well instead he scores in transition, with floaters and flips around the basket, and by getting to the free throw line. This scoring ability at 6-8, 220 would give the Hawks a different diamension off the bench and provide a scoring punch when the 3s aren't falling, Warren may struggle defensively, which would limit him to a bench role, where he wouldn't have to guard the top opposing forwards.

4. Cleanthony Early and the Utah Jazz
With the number 5 overall pick, the Jazz will have a terrific opportunity to add to their already considerable young talent base. With that pick, they should take the best player available and not worry about needs. However, they also pick at again at 23, and depending on what they do at 5, they should target a wing player who can shoot for a couple of reasons: first of all, they were not good shooting from 3 last season, hitting on only .344% of their three pointers, good for 25th in the league. Secondly, the status of Gordon Heyward is up in the air and they don't have anyone to replace him or back him up. Also with a big man heavy offense (Derrick Favors, Enes Kanter, Julius Randle? Noah Vonleh?), and the more shooting they have to space the floor, the better. Wichita State's Cleanthony Early not only fits that need (.375% from 3 last season, great looking stroke) but he is very athletic (40' vertical) and at 6-8, has great size for a wing. As a 23 year-old college Senior, he should be able to contribute right away, albeit with limited upside. He also fits the Jazz' MO of taking proven college performers. 

5. Shabazz Napier and the Los Angeles Clippers

Darren Collison bounced back after some poor seasons and was great as a backup point guard for the Clippers, posting a 16.21 PER. However, he opted out of the last year of his deal and will almost certainly be signed out of the Clippers price range as a starter. If that is the case, the Clippers will be left with no other points on the roster next season. While they may look for a veteran backup, the cheaper option would be to draft one with their late first round pick and use that money to add quality depth to the font court. One of the reasons Collison was so effective is his uptempo style contrasted with Chris Paul's more deliberate pace and Collison could help carry the Clippers bench offense with his scoring and playmaking ability. Of the options available with the 28th pick, Shabazz Napier of Connecticut best fits the Collison role because he can push the tempo, and score in the halfcourt. With a ton of experience playing in at a high level in college, Napier should be more ready to contribute than the average late-first round point guard.

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2014 NBA Mock Draft: 5/20

1. Cleveland Cavaliers: Jabari Parker, SF Duke Fr. (6-8, 235)

The Cavs win the lottery, again. Fortunately this is a difficult draft to mess up. Jabari Parker isn't he best prospect in this draft, but he's the most likely to help get the Cavs to the playoffs next season.

2. Milwaukee Bucks: Andrew Wiggins, SF Kansas Fr. (6-8, 200)

The Bucks don't win the lottery but they still get the best player. Wiggins should become the star that the Bucks need and can't get in other ways.

3. Philadelphia 76ers: Dante Exum, G Australia (6-6, 196)

The Sixers would love Parker or Wiggins, but if both are drafted ahead of their spot, they'll pick between Exum and Embiid. With Nerlens Noel on the roster and Embiid's back injury, it breaks the tie between two excellent players.

4. Orlando Magic: Joel Embiid, C Kansas Fr. (7-0, 250)

If healthy, Embiid is a force on both ends of the court and massive upside. He easily could be the next in line or game-changing big men in Orlando.

5. Utah Jazz: Julius Randle, PF Kentucky Fr. (6-9, 250)

The Jazz will likely be choosing between Smart and the power forwards, but Randle is the best fit for them, a team with a pick and roll point guard and an offense that can struggle at times.

6. Boston Celtics: Noah Vonleh, PF Indiana Fr. (6-9½, 247)

The Celtics could take Smart as their heir apparent to Rajon Rondo, but Vonleh has much bigger upside and can be the rim-protecting big man they desperately need. 

7. Los Angeles Lakers: Marcus Smart, G Oklahoma State So. (6-3¼, 227)

The Lakers could really go any way here even a wild card like local product LaVine, however Smart is the kind of player that is a great starting point in a rebuild and can match Kobe's intensity and drive.

8. Sacramento Kings: Aaron Gordon, PF Arizona Fr. (6-8¾, 220)

The Kings dropped a spot, but should still get a great player because there is a drop off after the top 8. Aaron Gordon is a perfect fit on Sacramento and next to DeMarcus Cousins. To do the dirty work and not have to bear much of a scoring role. 

9. Charlotte Hornets (from Detroit): Doug McDermott, SF Creighton Sr. (6-7¾, 218)

The Hornets can go a number of ways here, but McDermott is perfect for their offense. He can space the floor for Al Jefferson and provide another scorer on the wing.

10. Philadelphia 76ers (from New Orleans): Nik Stauskas, SG Michigan So. (6-6½, 207)

With Exum, Noel, Thad Young, and Michael Carter-Williams as building blocks, the Sixers will be in need of shooting. Stauskas is the best shooter in the draft and can also create plays off the dribble.

11. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Gary Harris, SG Michigan State So. (6-4½, 205)

The Nuggets could use both shooting and perimeter defense, which is what Harris provides. He may not have star upside but should be a rotation player for a long time.

12. Orlando Magic (from Denver): Tyler Ennis, PG Syracuse Fr. (6-2½, 182)
The Magic would like to move on from Jameer Nelson and I don't think they see Victor Oladipo as a point guard long term. Therefore Ennis, a steady and solid point guard makes sense. It is a good fit for him too, next to the athletic defender Oladipo.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Zach LaVine, SG UCLA (6-5¾, 181)
Some team is going to going to take a chance on the raw, athletic LaVine. The Timberwolves makes sense because they have a lot of talent and won't be killed if he busts, but could be taken to the next level if he hits. Obviously if/when Kevin Love is traded can change a lot.

14. Phoenix Suns: Dario Saric, PF Croatia (6-11, 223)
With 3 first round picks, the Suns can afford to invest in a prospect who may stay in Europe for a little while. Saric is the best of the options and too talented to not get drafted in the lottery despite his contract in Europe.

15. Atlanta Hawks: Jusuf Nurkic, C Bosnia (6-11, 280)
The Hawks have showed that they are willing to take risks as well as draft international players. Jusuf Nurkic is incredibly talented but also carries some risks as well. 

16. Chicago Bulls (from Charlotte): Elfrid Payton, PG Louisana-Lafayette Jr. (6-3¾, 185)
The Bulls desperately need to find someone who can create his own shot, which is exactly what Payton excels at. He is also a fierce perimeter defender that will fit right in in Chicago.

17. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): James Young, G/F Kentucky Fr. (6-6¾, 213)
The Celtics are another team that likes to take risks during the draft, which could lead them to the very talented, very inconsistent James Young, who looks like a star at times, and a career D-Leaguer at others.

18. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): P.J. Hairston, SG NBDL (6-5¼, 229)
Hairston, who was kicked off of the North Carolina basketball team, obviously has some red flags but can really shoot the ball from outside, plays hard on defense, and has upside in other areas. He is likely to contribute early next year.

19. Chicago Bulls: Adreian Payne, PF Michigan State Sr. (6-9¾, 239)
While a wing shooter like Rodney Hood makes a lot of sense, frontcourt depth has been an issue for Chicago for a while and Payne, who also can shoot, would fit right in as an athletic big who can play right away.

20. Toronto Raptors: Jerami Grant, F Syracuse (6-7¾, 214)
Grant is the best prospect available here and gives the Raptors some size on the wing to defend against the bigger small forwards that DeMar DeRozan and Terrence Ross might struggle with.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Dallas): Rodney Hood, G/F Duke (6-8½, 208)
The Thunder have seemingly been looking for a shooter for years, so if one like Hood falls into their lap, they'd have to be ecstatic. 

22. Memphis Grizzlies: Cleanthony Early, SF Wichita State (6-7¼, 209)
Mike Miller stayed healthy all season, but he is 34 and has many, many injuries in his past. Cleanthony Early isn't as good of a shooter as Miller, but he is incredibly athletic and a good defender.

23. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): T.J. Warren, SF North Carolina State (6-8¼, 220)
The Jazz have a pretty set starting lineup, provided they bring back Gordon Heyward, so they'll look to boost a bench that struggled last season. Warren has some questions about his position and shooting but he can really score.

24. Charlotte Hornets (from Portland): Clint Capela, F/C Switzerland (6-11, 222)
Capela could go much higher if he does well in workouts, but if he did fall to Charlotte they'd have to take a serious look, though the Bismack Biyombo experience might cause them to shy away.

25. Houston Rockets: Kyle Anderson, F UCLA So. (6-8½, 230)
Anderson could also go much higher. Given Houston's penchant for taking risk and fitting odd pieces together, the talented Anderson could be too much to pass up, despite the questions about his defense.

26. Miami Heat: Shabazz Napier, PG Connecticut Sr. (6-1, 175)
LeBron James has already expressed his admiration of Napier's game, and while that wouldn't be enough for the Heat to draft him, it does make a lot of sense with Mario Chalmers a free agent this summer.

27. Phoenix Suns (from Indiana): K.J. McDaniels, SF Clemson Jr. (6-6, 196)
Eric Bledsoe, Gerald Green, and McDaniels on the court at the same time would be the most athletic trio in the league. McDaniels is still growing as a scorer, but his athleticism and defense can be very disruptive. 

28. Los Angeles Clippers: Glenn Robinson III, G/F Michigan So. (6-6¾, 211)
The Clippers took a similar player last season, Reggie Bullock, but still seem to be looking for consistency from their bench wings. Robinson III has high upside but is very raw offensively.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder: C.J. Wilcox, SG Washington Sr. (6-5, 201)
Another shooter for the Thunder, though they could go with a international stash player as well. Wilcox is an excellent shooter and defender, he is just old at 23

30. San Antonio Spurs: Kristaps Porzingis, F/C Latvia (7-0, 220)
An international player mocked to the Spurs may seem lazy, but Porzingis could easily could go in the late lottery. He has serious talent and fills a need. Tim Duncan most likely can't keep playing forever after all.

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Rookie Look-In: Anthony Bennett

This is the first in a series of looks at the Rookie years (so far) of the 2013 NBA Draft class, what the've done well and where they need to improve in going forward. First up is top overall pick Anthony Bennett of the Cleveland Cavaliers...

Bennett's Stats*

12.8 mpg, 4.0 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.2 bpg, 0.4 spg, 0.9 tpg, 1.8 fpg, .340 FG, .631 FT .216 3P

Things could not have gone worse for Bennett this season, after offseason shoulder surgery, he was out of shape and not prepared whatsoever for the NBA. However, because of organizational pride, he was put out on the court and the results were awful, starting the season 5-for-32 and not scoring in double figures until January 28th, 44 games into the season. Bennett is second to last in PER among qualified rookies with a robust 6.44 (15 is league average), and the only guy he's ahead of is an undrafted free agent. His offense has been terrible on the whole this season (.408 TS%, worst among power forwards by .028%!) and he has fouled at a high rate (6.8 fouls per 48 minutes) while turning the ball over too much (14.9 turnover ratio, 69th out of 73 power forwards). His jumpshot hasn't been falling, shooting .216% from 3 on just over one a game and just .284% on non-3 jumpshots outside the pain. Jumpshot a make up 72% of Bennett's offense, but he is converting with a .281 effective FG%. Unfortunately, he hasn't been good in the paint either, just .465%, well below league average! and part of the issue is 21% of his shots close to the basket have been blocked. By comparison, the player Bennett is most similar to in physical profile and skillset, Paul Millsap, had a .438 eFG% on jumpers and had 12% of his shots in close blocked. 

This extremely poor performance raises the question: why was he still seeing the floor? Why was he not in the D-League to get back in playing shape and into the flow of games, or at least to get his confidence back? The answer, unfortunately, was probably that the Cavaliers didn't want to be the first team to send a number 1 pick to the D-League and suffer that "embarrassment." This example of putting organizational pride above what is good for both the team and the player is another in a long line of failings by Cleveland. 

Bennett has started to play a little better of late, averaging 7.2 points and 4.8 rebounds on .442% from the floor in February. Not great, but a big improvement over the terrible performance to start the season. How can he continue to improve? Getting into optimum shape and completely recovering from surgery is the first step. Bennett is still an explosive player, but his quickness has been effected by the added weight, which detracts not only from his ability to win off the dribble, but also to play defense. The next step will be to improve his jumpshot, in college Bennett was a good shooter who improved as the season wore on, but my guess is the off-season shoulder surgery stalled that improvement and set it back as a weapon in his offensive arsenal. An full, un-injury hinderd off-season of working on getting back to where he was in college should do wonders for Bennett's offense because it will also legitimize his pump-fake. Getting his shot blocked inside 21% of the time is probably a result of inexperience, at 6-8 he may get his shot blocked more then taller players, but learning how to finish over and through length can improve with experience. Overall, his game needs polish, including his ball-handling, passing, and defense, all of which should come with time and hard work.

Bennett took a lot of heat for his poor play, some calling him the biggest draft bust ever, but judging the career of a player who has a lot of talent and was good in college based on less than a full season, especially one with mitigating factors, is ignorant, foolish, and likely to be wrong.

*as of March 4th

Note: Huge thanks to John Hollinger's stats and 82games.com, one of the best basketball websites on the internet.

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