2013 NBA Draft Rankings

1. Nerlens Noel, C Kentucky Fr. (7-0, 206)

2. Ben McLemore, SG Kansas Fr. (6-5, 189)

3. Anthony Bennett, PF UNLV Fr. (6-8, 240)

4. Victor Oladipo, SG Indiana Jr. (6-4, 213)

5. Trey Burke, PG Michigan So. (6-1, 187)

6. Alex Len, C Maryland So. (7-1, 255)

7. Otto Porter, SF Georgetown So. (6-9, 198)

8. Michael Carter-Williams, PG Syracuse So. (6-6, 184)

9. Shane Larkin, PG Miami So. (6-0, 171)

10. C.J. McCollom, SG Lehigh Sr. (6-3, 197)

11. Cody Zeller, PF Indiana So. (7-0, 230)

12. Shabazz Muhammad, SF UCLA Fr. (6-6, 222)

13. Jamaal Franklin, SG San Diego State Jr. (6-5, 191)

14. Dennis Schroeder, PG Germany (6-2, 165)

15. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG Georgia So. (6-6, 204)

16. Rudy Gobert, C France (7-2, 238)

17. Sergey Karasev, SG Russia (6-7, 197)

18. Kelly Olynyk, PF Gonzaga Jr. (7-0, 234)

19. Tony Mitchell, PF North Texas So. (6-9, 236)

20. Gorgui Dieng, C Louisville Jr. (6-11, 230)

21. Isaiah Canaan, PG Murray State Sr. (6-0, 188)

22. Mason Plumlee, C Duke Sr. (7-1, 238)

23. Alex Abrines, Spain (6-5, 195)

24. Glen Rice Jr, SG NBDL (6-6, 211)

25. Steven Adams, C Pittsburgh Fr. (7-0, 255)

26. Allen Crabbe, SG California Jr. (6-6, 197)

27. Lucas Nogueria, C Brazil (7-0, 220)

28. Pierre Jackson, PG Baylor Sr. (5-11, 176)

29. Livio Jean-Charles, PF France (6-9, 217)

30. Reggie Bullock, SF North Carolina Jr. (6-7, 200)

31. Tim Hardaway Jr, SG Michigan Jr. (6-6, 199)

32. Giannis Anteokokounmpo, SF Greece (6-9, 215)

33. B.J. Young, PG Arkansas So. (6-4, 179)

34. Tony Snell, SF New Mexico Jr. (6-7, 198)

35. Myck Kabongo, PG Texas So. (6-3, 180)

36. Jeff Withey, C Kansas Sr. (7-1, 222)

37. Archie Goodwin, SG Kentucky Fr. (6-5, 189)

38. Ricardo Ledo, SG Providence Fr. (6-6, 197)

39. Nate Wolters, PG South Dakota State Sr. (6-5, 196)

40. James Southerland, SF Syracuse Sr. (6-8, 221) 

41. Ray McCallum Jr, PG Detroit Jr. (6-2, 191)

42. Grant Jerrett, PF Arizona Fr. (6-10, 

43. Peyton Siva, PG Louisville Sr. (6-1, 181)

44. Mike Muscala, C Bucknell Sr. (7-0, 230)

45. Jackie Carmichael, PF Illinois State Sr. (6-9, 241)

46. Erick Green, SG Virginia Tech Sr. (6-3, 178)   

47. Andre Roberson, PF Colorado Jr. (6-7, 206)

48. Lorenzo Brown, PG North Carolina State Jr. (6-5, 189)

49. James Ennis, SF Long Beach State Sr. (6-7, 201)

50. Arslan Kazemi, PF Oregon Sr. (6-8, 228)

51. Matthew Dellavadova, PG St. Mary's Sr. (6-4, 205)

52. Trevor Mbakwe, PF Minnesota Sr. (6-8, 236)

53. D.J. Stephens, SF Memphis Sr. (6-6, 194)

54. DeWayne Dedmon, C USC Sr. (7-0, 239)

55. Colton Iverson, C Colorado State Sr. (7-0, 263)

56. Erik Murphy, PF Flordia Sr. (6-10, 240)

57. Deshaun Thomas, SF Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 220)

58. Nemanja Nedovic, SG Serbia (6-4, 200)

59. Vander Blue, SG Marquette Jr. (6-5, 197)

60. Phil Pressey, PG Missouri Jr. (6-0, 177)

NBA Draft: Point Guard Preview

Tier 1: Lottery

1. Trey Burke, Michigan So. (6-1, 187)

Consensus Player of the Year Trey Burke was the best player in college basketball last year on the second best team in the country. Burke is score first point guard who can score in a number of ways, including from deep, where he shot 38% from 3. Burke is quick and a good ball handler who excels in the pick and roll. Burke is a good distributor as well and can run a team, really. The only concern is his lack of elite size and athleticism, which can cause Burke to struggle as a finisher.

2. Michael Carter-Williams, Syracuse So. (6-6, 184)

After an up and down season, Michael Carter-Williams is one of the more divisive prospects in the draft. Really though, he really just needs to improve his shooting and gain some more refinement as a point guard. Other than that, he's an elite, explosive athlete with rare size for a point guard and a very intruding set of skills. Carter-Williams is a pure point guard with outstanding court vision, he is a great defender and finisher at the rim. Carter-Williams has played only one season as a point guard and the jumper isn't broken, so issues are fixable.

3. Shane Larkin, Miami So. (6-0, 171)

Larkin flew under the radar all season, yet was probably the second best point guard throughout the course of the season behind Burke. After blowing up the combine by testing out as the best all around athlete (including a 44-inch vertical), Larkin is finally receiving his due. The complete package as a point guard, Larkin is super quick, a very good shooter, defender, and passer. If he was two inches taller he'd be a top 3 pick.

4. Dennis Schroeder, Germany (6-2, 165)

Dennis Schroeder is one of the best combinations of upside and present ability, he is already a pretty polished point guard with good ball handling skills, shooting and passing ability. Schroeder is also a very good, intense defender. However, at only 19 he's got good upside, especially as a finisher when his frame fills out more.

Tier 2: Mid-to-Late First Round

5. Isaiah Canaan, Murray State Sr. (6-0, 188)

If you're looking for the next Damian Lillard, Isaiah Canaan may be it. Canaan is a score first point guard with great quickness and athleticism; he is particularly dangerous in transition. He is also a very good shooter with NBA range. He is undersized, but has the length and quickness to be a good defender. I don't know if he's a starter, but as a scoring, change of pace backup Canaan is the best in this draft.

6. Pierre Jackson, Baylor Sr. (5-11, 176)

Like Canaan, Pierre Jackson is a very quick and athletic, yet undersized point guard with a well rounded offensive game. Jackson is really hard to stay in front of, not only because of the quickness, but because his shooting ability, opponents can't go under screens against him. Jackson also has solid court vision and is unselfish. Size will be an issue on defense, but Jackson gives good effort and is certainly quick enough.

7. B.J. Young, Arkansas So. (6-4, 179)

There isn't a player in this draft with a more explosive first step than B.J. Young, he is an advanced ball handler who has a number of ways to break a team down via the dribble. Once Young gets to the rim, he is a good finisher as well. The jumper needs a lot of work, but as a change of pace point guard who can push the tempo off the bench for an fast-paced team, Young could have a ton of value.

Tier 3: First Round Bubble

8. Myck Kabongo, Texas So. (6-3, 180)

It's hard to tell whether Myck Kabongo is as flawed as he's looked at times, or if the mess at Texas has been dragging him down. Kabongo certainly has talent, he's got great speed and quickness as well as court vision and an unselfish playing style. If he can improve his jumpshot and cut down on turnovers, he could be a really solid player.

9. Nate Wolters, South Dakota State Sr. (6-5, 196)

Workouts will be huge for Wolters who needs to show he can defend NBA athletes while also being able to score on them. The latter shouldn't be a problem, he quick, crafty, and a good shooter, it's the former that's the issue.

Tier 4: Second Round 

10. Ray McCallum, Detroit Jr. (6-2, 191)

A nice mix of upside and ability, Ray McCallum is a solid point guard with quickness, explosivness, passing ability and a high basketball IQ. All which can turn him into a solid backup point. However, if he can Improve his shooting, McCallum could be a could be a good NBA player.

11. Peyton Siva, Louisville Sr. (6-1, 181)

Peyton Siva isn't a great shooter and he he can be somewhat wild, but there's no denying he has some attributes that can help a team. Siva is an intense, disruptive defender as well as a deadly transition player who excels at getting into the paint and finding teammates. Siva is also a leader on the court and off that teams love.

12. Lorenzo Brown, North Carolina State Jr. (6-5 189)

For a big, pass first point guard Lorenzo Brown isn't as highly thought of as you'd expect. There are a couple reasons for this, firstly he's not a great shooter or decision maker, but the most troubling thing is the way that a very talented Wolfpack team crashed and burned with Brown at the helm.

13. Matthew Dellavadova, St. Mary's Sr. (6-4, 205)

Matthew Dellavadova is the best pick-and-roll point guard in the draft, a wizard with the ball that can kill defenders that go under or over screens. He is great at finding teammates when he gets in the lane and can hit 3s when given space. If Dellavadova was a better athlete he'd be a first round lock, but teams worry about his ability to defend.

14. Phil Pressey, Missouri Jr. (6-0, 177)

Another undersized guard, Phil Pressey is a very good passer, when he wants to be, and that's really the issue. Pressey shouldn't be taking many shots, he's not a good shooter or finisher, yet he's great at getting into the paint and finding shooters and cutters. If he can learn to pick his spots better, 

Pressey could be a decent third point guard.

NBA Mock Draft: 6/15

1. Cleveland Cavaliers: Otto Porter, SF Georgetown So. (6-9, 198)

The Cavaliers want to make the playoffs, so that's why it seems more and more likely that they'll go with someone other than Noel. I'd take McLemore, but the Cavs are high on Porter, who'll slot into the small forward spot as a day one starter and solid role player.

2. Orlando Magic: Nerlens Noel, C Kentucky Fr. (7-0, 206)

The Magic would be ecstatic to get Noel here and with good reason, he'll fit great on their team. Nikola Vucevic had a great year, but Noel can play alongside him as Vucevic plays more like a power forward on offense. Noel will be a great fit anchoring Orlando's defense.

3. Washington Wizards: Anthony Bennett, PF UNLV Fr. (6-8, 240)

I believe the Wizards top three are Noel, Bennett, and Porter, so they'll likely grab the one of them who isn't taken. Bennett is a great fit because the Wizards really need scoring from their bigs, which Bennett can supply in a variety of ways.

4. Charlotte Bobcats: Ben McLemore, SG Kansas Fr. (6-5, 189)

The Bobcats were in the bottom three in offensive and defensive efficiency, so any body they take should help with that. Ben McLemore is an outstanding shooter and tremendous athlete in transition, which will fit well alongside Kemba Walker and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

5. Phoenix Suns: Victor Oladipo, SG Indiana Jr. (6-4, 213)

The Suns really need help at shooting guard, and though McLemore would be a better fit, Victor Oladipo is a great fit as well. Oladipo is an outstanding perimeter defender who brings a ton of energy to the floor and will only get better on offense.

6. New Orleans Pelicans: Trey Burke, PG Michigan So. (6-1, 187)

Greivis Vasquez had a great season, but at this point Trey Burke is too good to pass up and a nice compliment to Vasquez, who has the size to play shooting guard. Burke has his flaws, namely defense and athleticism, but pick-and-roll guards who can really shoot are valuable.

7. Sacramento Kings: Michael Carter-Williams, PG Syracuse So. (6-6, 184)

Michael Carter-Williams is the top pure point guard in this draft, a pass first player that will fit great in Sacramento because of his unselfishness. He also has the size and athleticism to guard shooting guards, meaning Isaiah Thomas can play alongside him.

8. Detroit Pistons: Shabazz Muhammad, SF UCLA Fr. (6-6, 222)

Detroit scored big with Andre Drummond last draft by taking a risk and gambling on talent. Shabazz Muhammad is certainly talented as well as hard working and competitive, he just happened to play for a bad coach in a bad situation at USC.

9. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG Georgia So. (6-6, 204)

After a historically bad season shooting season, Minnesota desperately needs to find some shooters, particularly from the 2 guard position. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope lacks upside, but as a shooter and defender, he should be really helpful.

10. Portland Trail Blazers: Alex Len, C Maryland So. (7-1, 255)

This would probably be the worst case scenario for Len, but his foot injury could really scare some teams off. Len would take some of the pressure of LaMarcus Aldridge and give the Blazers a nice, young one-two punch at center.

11. Philadelphia 76ers: Cody Zeller, PF Indiana So. (7-0, 230)

The 76ers really need to find frontcourt help this offseason, particularly power forward. I'm not as high on Cody Zeller as some others, but he'll certainly bring scoring and rebounding to the team, something  Philadelphia really struggled with.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Toronto): C.J. McCollom, SG Lehigh Sr. (6-3, 197)

I don't think C.J. McCollom should fall out of the top ten, but's hard to find a good fit for him. McCollom would be a great fit in Oklahoma City, as they need another scorer, particularly one that can create for themselves of the dribble.

13. Dallas Mavericks: Giannis Antetokounmpo, SF Greece (6-9, 215)

Surprise! The Mavericks want to trade this pick or take a prospect they can stash in Europe to save money. If Dario Saric pulls out of the draft, this pick will be up in the air and there's no hotter prospect right now than Antetokounmpo, who played in front of a ton of decision makers recently.

14. Utah Jazz: Shane Larkin, PG Miami So. (6-0, 171)

The Jazz really need to upgrade the point guard position, Mo Williams is much better as a scorer of the bench while Jamaal Tinsley and Earl Watson are free agents. Shane Larkin is an amazing athlete who does everything you want from a point guard except being tall.

15. Milwaukee Bucks: Dennis Schroeder, PG Germany (6-2, 165)

Apparently the Bucks are looking to move on from Brandon Jennings and/or Monte Ellis, so they'll be looking for backcourt help in the draft and Free Agency. Dennis Schroeder is best guard on the board and should be a nice addition to the Bucks with his passing, shooting, and defense.

16. Boston Celtics: Ricardo Ledo, SG Providence Fr. (6-6, 197)

Surprise number 2. Danny Ainge isn't afraid of taking high upside risks, and there might not be a bigger one in this draft than Ledo. However, he's also exactly what the Celtics need: a wing who can score from anywhere on the floor, create his own shot, and most importantly not be old.

17. Atlanta Hawks: Jamaal Franklin, SG San Diego State Jr. (6-5, 191)

The Hawks have a lot of jump shooters on their team who don't get to the line very often. Enter Jamaal Franklin, a freak athlete who can slash to the rim and grab offensive rebounds will likely draw a lot of fouls and really help the Hawks offense.

18. Atlanta Hawks (from Houston): Steven Adams, C Pittsburgh Fr. (7-0, 255)

For some time now the Hawks have wanted to move Al Horford from center back to his natural position of power forward. They would be ale to with the addition of Steven Adams, who brings toughness and rebounding, though not much offense.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers (from L.A. Lakers): Rudy Gobert, C France (7-2, 238)

If the Cavs don't go with Noel at 1-1, they can look for a center with this pick. Gobert is a physical freak with a 9-7 standing reach who could become a monster defensively. He's raw but spot minutes as a backup center and forward will allow him to come along slowly.

20. Chicago Bulls: Sergey Karasev, SG Russia (6-7, 197)

The Bulls can either try to get a scorer or a backup center with this pick, depending on who falls to them. In this case, Karasev is a great value and a perfect fit. Karasev is an excellent shooter who can also handle the ball and make plays for others.

21. Utah Jazz (from Golden State): Mason Plumlee, C Duke Sr. (7-1, 238)

The Jazz will likely lose either Al Jefferson this summer, so they'll need to find some front court depth as a replacement. Mason Plumlee has limited upside but can backup either center or power forward for Utah while giving them rebounding.

22. Brooklyn Nets: Kelly Olynyk, PF Gonzaga Jr. (7-0, 234)

There's no way a big man who can score like Kelly Olynyk should fall this far in the draft, but if other players move up and needs don't fall that way, someone will fall. Olynyk will fill huge need at power forward for Brooklyn and give them one of most versatile scoring front courts in the league.

23. Indiana Pacers: Isaiah Canaan, PG Murray State Sr. (6-0, 188)

The Pacers will likely be letting D.J. Augustin walk in Free Agency and will need a backup for George Hill. Isaiah Canaan is an explosive scorer who can play off the ball as a shooter or be the primary ball-handler who can provide the Pacers with a scoring punch off the bench.

24. New York Knicks: Tony Mitchell, PF North Texas So. (6-9, 236)

The Knicks don't have any power forwards currently on the roster aside from Amare, and who knows how long he'll stay healthy. Tony Mitchell is very gifted physically, with size, length, and explosiveness as well as an emerging skill-set that would fit nicely in New York.

25. Los Angeles Clippers: Allen Crabbe, SG California Jr. (6-6, 197)

The Clippers can't go on with Willie Green as their shooting guard, he is a decent NBA player but not the type of offensive threat Los Angeles needs to take pressure off of Chris Paul in the back court. Crabbe has very good physical tools and is a great shooter, he needs to put in more effort defensively however.

26. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Memphis): Glenn Rice Jr, G/F NBDL (6-6, 211)

The Timberwolves really need more than one wing player that can shoot, so even after drafting Caldwell-Pope, they can grab Glenn Rice Jr. here. Between the two of them, the Timberwolves will not only have two of the best shooters in the draft, but also two of the best perimeter defenders and rebounders.

27. Denver Nuggets: Reggie Bullock, G/F North Carolina Jr. (6-7, 200)

One the Nuggets top priorities this offseason has to be getting more shooting, they lack any consistent shooting threats. Reggie Bullock will not only provide that, but he also can give them another good, smart perimeter defensive player.

28. San Antonio Spurs: Lucas Nogeria, C Brazil (7-0, 220)

One of the reasons the Spurs got where they are now by making smart investments in undervalued prospects, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, and Kahwi Leonard all fell further than they should have. If Nogeria, a long, mobile defensive player with big upside, falls here, he will be a steal.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder: Alex Abrines, SG Spain (6-5, 195)

Alex Abrines is a great pick for the Thunder here because not only is he very, very talented but he gives the Thunder the flexibility to stash in Europe or bring over and develop now. Abrines is an athletic shooter with big upside.

30. Phoenix Suns: Gorgui Dieng, C Louisville Jr. (6-11, 230)

Even if the Suns add wing talent with their first pick, they could double-dip, their dearth of talent is that bad. However, the defensive value that Dieng offers is too good to pass up. Especially on a team that has struggled defensively and lacks above average defensive big men.

NBA Draft: Shooting Guard Preview

Tier 1: Lottery Pick

1. Ben McLemore, Kansas Fr. (6-5, 189)

One of the few premium talents in this draft, Ben McLemore had sustained periods of dominance throughout the season before hitting somewhat of a wall towards the end of the season. Still, overall he was one of the best players in the country and has prodigious talent. An elite athlete with a 42 inch vertical, McLemore is extremely dangerous in transition, exploding to the basket for highlight dunks. What sets McLemore apart from most super athletic guards is his terrific jumpshot; he knocked down 42% of his 3s while taking almost 5 a game. He needs to become a more consistent playmaker and ball handler, but the sky is the limit for McLemore.

2. Victor Oladipo, Indiana Jr. (6-4, 213)

Perhaps the best perimeter defensive player in the country, no one competes harder on a nightly basis than Victor Oladipo. He is undersized, but it doesn't matter because of his long arms and athleticism, he can guard wing players and create havoc defensively and on the offensive boards. Offensively, while he dramatically improved his shooting and is a good slasher to the rim, Oladipo is still raw and needs refinement to be an above average offensive player in the league. However the other things he brings to the table are so good, teams in the top 5 will be intrigued.

3. C.J. McCollom, Lehigh Sr. (6-3, 197)

As an undersized, high scoring guard from a small school C.J. McCollom is predictably being compared to Damien Lillard, but that's not fair to either. McCollom is a combo guard, not a point guard  while Lillard is much more of a point, but still a score first player. The difference is that Lillard played as a point guard in college and didn't have to make the transition. Making the transition will hurt what McCollom does best: score. He can score from all over the floor and should provide a nice punch of the bench ala Lou Williams.

4. Jamaal Franklin, San Diego State Jr. (6-5,191)

One of the players that will give Oladipo a run for his money as a perimeter defender, it's Franklin. One of the best athletes in the draft, he is quick, explosive and has a 6-11+ wingspan. He can defend quicker guards as well as bigger wings wings while not giving up anything on the boards, where he can dominate on the boards (9.5 a game!). Offensively he is a terrific slasher getting to the rim and has been improving his shooting. Franklin contributes so much to a team and is a high motor, high character player.

Tier 2: Mid-to-Late First

5. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Georgia So. (6-6, 204)

A potential standout role player, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope doesn't have huge upside but can do a number of things that will really help an NBA team. First off is the shooting, Caldwell-Pope has deep, deep range and though streaky he shot 37% from 3 despite being forced to take a lot of bad shots on a bad team. Caldwell-Pope is also a good defender with the size and athleticism to defend on the wing. He is also a really good rebounder and high effort player. 

6. Sergey Karasev, Russia (6-7, 197)

Karasev isn't the defender Caldwell-Pope is, but he is a better shooter and brings more to the table on the offensive end. Karasev is a good ball handler and passer who can make plays for others when he gets into the paint. Karasev is young at only 19, has a lot for experience playing professionally and for the Russian national team in the Olympics alongside other NBA players. He should be able to step in as a rookie and help right away, yet still have upside.

7. Alex Abrines, Spain (6-5, 195)

One of the bigger sleepers in this draft, Alex Abrines is very talented and plays in one of the best leagues in Europe, but he isn't being considered for a high pick because of his lack of track record. Abrines doesn't get a ton of minutes, but is always productive when he does. Abrines is a very good shooter and is also athletic and can get to the rim. Abrines has a high basketball IQ and at only just 20, is full of upside.

8. Glen Rice Jr, NBDL (6-6, 211)

Teams coveting Caldwell-Pope that can't get him should look at Glenn Rice Jr. If not for some character red-flags, Rice Jr. might go higher than him because of his shooting and defense. He is a very good shooter and should be able to space the floor as well as slash to the rim and score in transition. If you we're going to draw up a wing defender, he'd look a lot like Rice Jr: big and strong, with long arms and athleticism (40.5 inch vertical). 

9. Allen Crabbe, California (6-6, 197)

If Allen Crabbe put the effort in on defense he'd be a lottery pick because his offensive game is very good. He is a very good shooter and versatile scorer who averaged 18.4 points a game. Crabbe is also a good athlete and has great size and length for a shooting guard. The concern is his body language on the court when things don't go his way and very inconsistent defensive effort.

10. Tim Hardaway Jr, Michigan Jr. (6-6, 199)

A jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none wing, Tim Hardaway Jr. lacks big time upside but can do a lotof little  things to help his team. Hardaway Jr. is solid shooter and could develop into a very good one over time. He is also a solid defender and good in transition. Hardaway Jr. played big minutes on a very good team and has  great bloodlines.

Tier 3: First Round Bubble

11. Archie Goodwin, Kentucky Fr. (6-5, 189)

A potential top ten pick at the start of the season, Archie Goodwin's stock has steadily fallen throughout the season to the point that the first round isn't a lock. Goodwin's lack of a jumpshot and poor decision were exposed, especially the latter as Goodwin was forced into more of a playmaking role. Goodwin is very explosive with the ball in his hands and has a ton of upside, but also a lot of risk.

12. Ricardo Ledo, Providence Fr. (6-6, 197)

One of the most interesting stories in the draft, Ricky Ledo sat out the whole season because he couldn't get eligible. There's no denying his talent, a big combo guard with an explosive first step, Ledo excels with the ball in his hands getting to the rim. Like Goodwin, he has a ton of upside but even more risk because of some of the same issues, plus some serious concerns that he might be a locker room cancer.

Tier 4: Second Round

13. Erick Green, Virginia Tech Sr. (6-3, 178)

A similar prospect to C.J. McCollom, Erick Green is a scoring combo guard through and through. He is very explosive getting to the rim and is really good in transition, while also being a decent shooter. Green can find teammates and takes pretty good care of the ball, but make no mistake any team that drafts him will be looking for a bench scorer.

14. Nemanja Nedovic, Serbia (6-4, 200)

Breaking the mold of the stereotypical European player, Nemanja Nedovic is an explosive athlete with a 41-inch vertical and tremendous quickness with the ball in his hands. However he is undersized for the 2 guard position and is not a great shooter, but teams looking for someone to stash might target Nedovic in the second.

15. Vander Blue, Marquette Jr. (6-5, 197)

Vander Blue made of the more interesting decisions to turn pro, he had a really good year, but his lack of shooting ability makes him a borderline prospect. Blue is athletic and learned how to play gritty defense at Marquette, but the lack of shooting is a real concern because he doesn't project to be a dominant scorer in other ways either.

16. Carrick Felix, Arizona State Jr. (6-6, 203)

Carrick Felix is a potential 3-and-D wing player, like most second rounders he lacks upside, but he projects as a good wing defender who can make corner 3s and rebound well from his position.

17. Brandon Paul, Illinois Sr. (6-4, 201)

Brandon Paul started the season on fire and rose his stock into the top half of the first round before cooling off for the rest of the year. Paul is a great athlete and shooter, but he's undersized and inconsistent.

18. Michael Snaer, Florida State Sr. (6-5, 201)

Another potential 3-and-D player, Snaer is a really good defender on the perimeter but needs to become a more consistent shooter to make it in the NBA, though he's solid overall. Snaer is a leader who plays really hard and has made a number of big shots in his career.

19. Khalif Wyatt, Temple Sr. (6-4, 212)

I really want Khaliff Wyatt to be drafted and at least make a Summer League roster because he's one of the most entertaining players to watch because of his unorthodox style. Wyatt is not a great athlete, he is undersized and not a good shooter, yet somehow he scores a ton of points against top competition.

NBA Draft: Small Forward Preview

Tier 1: Lottery

1. Otto Porter, Georgetown So. (6-9, 198)

Porter is considered one of the safer prospects in this draft because of his well rounded game and high character. Porter can rebound, pass, shoot, handle the ball, and defend. He also plays really hard and is unselfish, the ultimate role player. However, my worry is that he will only ever be a role player, a high floor but a low ceiling. However in a draft with so many risks and question marks, The safety that Otto Porter offers is appealing.

2. Shabazz Muhammad, UCLA Fr. (6-6, 222)

Muhammad came into the season as a potential number 1 pick, but after a rough season on and off the court, he's clinging to the top 10. Muhammad is a scorer through and through, with a nose for the ball and the kind of strong, physical frame that gets him to the rim and the line. He needs to work on his shooting, right hand, and passing, but is one of the top few scorers in this draft and a good bet to at least be a bench scorer.

Tier 2: First Round Bubble

3. Reggie Bullock, North Carolina Jr. (6-7, 200)

Reggie Bullock is the first of many 3-and-D small forwards in this draft, prospects who can spread the floor on offense, and defend wing players on the other end. Bullock shot 44% from 3 this last season and while not particularly long, he's athletic and quick enough to be a very good defender. Perhaps even more importantly, he's a willing and smart defender who takes pride in his defense. 

4. Giannis Anteokokounmpo, Greece (6-9, 215)

This draft's mystery man, Giannis Anteokokounmpo, is one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft because of his size, length, athleticism, and age at only 18. Like Saric, Anteokokounmpo is a point forward with great size. The issue with Anteokokounmpo is that he plays against poor competition in Europe and is probably 2 or more years away from being able to help and NBA team.

5. Tony Snell, New Mexico Jr. (6-7, 198)

On some night you'll watch Tony Snell and see a lottery pick, while other games he looks like a second rounder. If Snell can find some consistency, particularly in his jumpshot, he can be a solid contributor for an NBA team and an athletic wing who can shoot and defend. However, right now his streak invests can be a issue, but the upside is obvious.

Tier 3: Second Round

6. James Southerland, Syracuse Sr. (6-8, 221)

After getting spot duty on deep Syracuse teams his first three years, Southerland had a breakout season and got onto NBA radars as a potential role player. Southerland has great size and length (7-1) wingspan for a forward, and could even play power forward some. While he isn't an outstanding athlete, he is a very quick leaper and could be a very good defender. What really matters is his deep, deep range on his jumper and shot 40% from 3 last season.

7. James Ennis, Long Beach State Sr. (6-7, 201)

Like Bullock, Snell, and Southerland, James Ennis is a potential 3-and-D prospect who could contribute to an NBA team. While he may be the worst shooter of the four (35%), he is still solid in that respect and is probably the best defender of the group. He is also a very good finisher around the basket. Ennis will turn 23 in July, so his upside may be limited, but does have role player potential.

8. D.J. Stephens, Memphis Sr. (6-6, 194)

D.J. Stephens is the best athlete in the draft and perhaps the best I've ever seen, his 46 inch vertical is the best recorded in the DraftExpress database that goes all the way back to 1989, while a 7-0 wingspan contributes to best vertical reach as well at 12-5.5 feet, higher than Shaq, JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard. That is insane. He isn't skilled offensively, but I would drafted him and just let him make plays on defense and at the rim, blocking shots and dunking.

9. Deshaun Thomas, Ohio State Jr. (6-7, 220)

While Stephens may be all athleticism and minimal skill, Deshaun Thomas is the opposite. He's one of the best, if not the best scores in this draft, able to score of the bounce, in the post, and from 3. However, he isn't a great athlete and has struggled with conditioning in the past. All this wouldn't be an issue if Thomas gave good effort on the defensive end, but he doesn't, at all. He struggled defending forwards in the Big Ten, in the NBA he'll get roasted unless his effort level rises.

10. Adonis Thomas, Memphis So. (6-6, 232)

A potential lottery pick coming out of high school, and still well regarded after his Freshman season, Thomas went back to school and had a disaster of a season, to the point that he might not even get drafted. Thomas is strong, physical and athletic, but his game is better suited as a power forward, but he's severely undersized for that.

11. Rodney Williams, Minnesota Sr. (6-7, 214)

In any other draft, Rodney Williams would be the best athlete by far, however with Stephens taking the cake, Williams will have to settle second best. Williams has a 42.5 inch vertical and a 12-3 max reach, both top 12 numbers all time in the DraftExpress database. Williams has the potential to be a defensive ace and human highlit reel, but he needs to improve his shooting to stick in the NBA,

12. Solomon Hill, Arizona Sr. (6-7, 226)

The last of the 3-and-D prospects in this draft, Solomon Hill can do a little bit of everything's on the floor, and is athletic and strong enough to defend bigger wings players in the NBA. However, he's really better suited to play power forward, where he would be very undersized.

NBA Draft: Power Forward Preview

Tier 1: Lottery

1. Anthony Bennett, UNLV Fr. (6-8, 240)
Among big men in this draft, there isn't a better combination of physical gifts, skill, and production than Anthony Bennett. At only just 20, Anthony Bennett has an NBA body to go with great length and explosiveness. Bennett is very skilled, he can score from the post all the way out to the 3-point line as well as handle the ball, rebound and block shots. Bennett is one of the three best prospects in this draft and could end up being the best down the line.

2. Cody Zeller, Indiana So. (7-0, 230)

Over the course of the pre-draft process, Cody Zeller has remade himself from post-playing center to perimeter power forward. This change suits Zeller who has lackluster arm length, reach, strength and explosiveness (I don't care what the combine vertical tests say) and can really struggle with long, athletic and physical defenders. However, he is skilled and should be able to transition to the power forward position easily.

Tier 2: Mid-to-Late First Round

3. Kelly Olynyk, Gonzaga Jr. (7-0, 234)

The most skilled big man in the draft, Kelly Olynyk could pass as a small forward, as well as he handles the ball and shoots. Olynyk is also a good finisher with a polished low post game. The concerns with Olynyk are defensive, he isn't a great rebounder and might struggle to defend some because of his lack of explosiveness and short wingspan. However, Olynyk's versatile scoring ability as a big should keep him in the NBA.

4. Tony Mitchell, North Texas So. (6-9, 235)

Tony Mitchell is one of the most talented prospects in this draft, he is very long, strong and athletic as well as relatively skilled. The reason Mitchell isn't a lock for the lottery is a disastrous Sophomore season in which he regressed in almost every statistical category. This can partially be explained by a change in coaching and a terrible situation at North Texas, though Mitchell is certainly to partially to blame. A risk certainly, but one that could pay of big time.

4. Livio-Jean Charles, France (6-9, 217)

Livio Jean-Charles blew up the Hoop Summit, registering 27 points and 13 boards against the top American High School Seniors. Perhaps even more importantly, Jean-Charles showed consistently in practices that he has the skill-set of a roleplayer: rebounding, defense, finishing, and a nice mid-range jumper.

Tier 3: Second Round Pick

5. Grant Jerrett, Arizona Fr. (6-10, 232)

I liked Jerrett as a sleeper before the season, but he hardly got many minutes as a Freshman, yet surprisingly declared for the draft. Though he has a lot of work to do, Jerrett could really turn into a valuable NBA player for two simple reasons: size and shooting. At 6-10 with a 7-2 wingspan, a 9-1 reach and good athleticism Jerrett is a very good shooter, and stretch 4s are all the rage in the NBA.

6. Jackie Carmichael, Illinois State Sr. (6-9, 241)

Big, strong, long, and athletic, Jackie Carmichael does all the little things you want from a back-up big man. He can rebound, defend, and finish close to the basket. At 23 and not particularly skilled offensively, Carmichael isn't likely to be much more than a back-up but he can still be a contributor.

7. Ryan Kelly, Duke Sr. (7-0, 228)

Like Jerrett, Ryan Kelly's path to the NBA lies solely on his shooting ability and size. Kelly shot 42% from 3 last season. He isn't very strong or athletic, nor does he rebound particularly well, but as a stretch 4 Kelly has a future as a role player.

8. Andre Roberson, Colorado Jr. (6-7, 206)

Roberson is an interesting case, he has tried to improve his draft stock by playing more on the perimeter last
season, but he simply isn't skilled at that. What he does do however, is rebound and defend like crazy. Over the last two seasons, Roberson has averaged 11+ rebounds while also ,asking a ton of plays defensively and winning 2012's Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.

9. Arslan Kazemi, Oregon Sr. (6-8, 228)

There isn't a prospect in this draft that plays harder than Arslan Kazemi, he goes full out every possession, hunting down rebounds on both ends and getting up into opponents on the defensive end. He has a 7-0 wingspan and solid athleticism, but it's his motor and defensive ability that will earn him a spot in the NBA.

10. Trevor Mbakwe, Minnesota Sr. (6-8, 236)

If you didn't know anything about him, you'd watch Trevor Mbakwe and think he was a top 10 pick. Physically dominant with strength, length, huge hands, and explosive leaping ability, which allows him to dominate in the paint. However, Mbakwe is 24 years old, has some serious character red-flags, as well as injury issues. Still, teams may take a chance on him as a backup.

11. Erik Murphy, Florida Sr. (6-10, 240)

Like Kelly and Jerrett, Erik Murphy is a stretch 4 who shot a blistering 45% from 3 last season. He also has value defending on the perimeter. However, he is a poor rebounder and interior defender that doesn't bring much more to the table than shooting and a high basketball IQ.

12. Brandon Davies, BYU Sr. (6-10, 242)

Like a lot of other prospects on this list, Davies is physically developed and strong, and should be able to find value as a back up big man who can rebound, block shots and battle in the paint. What's interesting about Davies is he has developed somewhat of a jumper, which should help him land on a roster.

13. Kenny Kadji, Miami Sr. (6-10, 242)

Kadji measured great at the combine, with a 7-3 wingspan and 38 inch vertical, he also shot 35% from 3 and and blocked over a shot a game. So why is he a borderline second round pick? He's already 25 years old, which means he lacks considerable upside.

NBA Draft: Center Preview

Tier 1: Lottery Picks

1. Nerlens Noel, Kentucky Fr. (7-0 , 206)

Noel's knee injury is a concern, but not one that should cause him to drop out of the top 3 picks. To me, there isn't much to worry about as far as the weight, he's only 19 and is rehabbing his knee; a couple of months in an NBA weight room and he'll be good to go. What Noel offers is a potential defensive player of the year candidate who can guard inside and out, block shots, rebound, and create turnovers, much like a Joakim Noah or Larry Sanders.

2. Alex Len, Maryland So. (7-1, 255)

Len is currently rehabbing a foot injury, so he won't be able to work out, which could cause him to drop a few spots, but not out of the top ten. It's very hard to find the combination of size, length, skill, and athleticism the Len offers. Big men the you can run an offense through, both I the high and low post don't grow on trees, especially those who can also be good defensive players.

3. Rudy Gobert, France (7-2, 238)

Rudy Gobert won the measurement portion of the Combine with a 7-8.5 wingspan and a 9-7 stand reach, both basically unrivaled numbers. While his vertical numbers weren't as impressive, with that length it doesn't really matter. Gobert can be a monster defensively, he compares favorably to Larry Sanders, whom has a lesser wingspan, reach, and vertical and is one of the best defensive centers in the league.

Tier 2: Mid-to-Late First Round

4. Gorgui Dieng, Louisville Sr. (6-11, 230)

If you're looking for a rock solid backup center, look no further than Gorgui Dieng. He's got all that you look for from that position and should be a contributor as a backup right away. Dieng is a very good defensive player, a prolific shot-blocker and great help defender who can also rebound and guard in the pick-and-roll. Dieng can also knock down a mid-range jumper and is a good passer. What's holding him back is a lack of upside at 23 years old.

5. Mason Plumlee, Duke Sr. (7-1, 238)

Mason Plumlee should have a long career as NBA big man because of his rebounding and post defense. Plumlee isn't particularly long, but he is an explosive leaper who can really rise up for rebounds, both on the offensive and defensive end. He also runs the floor hard and can defend one-on-one in the post. He's also 23, lacks upside, isn't a great shot-blocker and really struggles to defend on the perimeter. Plumlee is a safe pick to contribute on an NBA team however.

6. Steven Adams, Pittsburgh Fr. (7-0, 255)

Adan's blew up the combine by measuring great (7-4.5 wingspan, huge hands), doing very well in interviews, and performing much better than expected in the drills. However, that's not enough in my mind to erase a year of tape. As a Freshman, Adams rebounded very well, especially on the offensive end and played good, tough defense. On offense however, he really struggled, not showing much skill, and most troubling really struggling to finish close to the rim. Adam should still be a solid backup because of his defensive ability, and the upside is there, however the lottery is too rich for my blood.

Tier 3: First Round Bubble

7. Lucas Nogeria, Brazil (6-11, 218)

Lucas Nogeria compares physically to Nerlens Noel: long, athletic, mobile, but also with an under-developed frame. However, Nogeria is two years older, and not the same natural defender as Noel, nor is he as fluid or have as high of a motor. Still, Nogeria has a lot of upside and if teams can be patient, the reward could be huge.

8. Jeff Withey, Kansas Sr. (7-1, 222)

At 23, it's unlikely that Jeff Withey will become anything more than he already is, but luckily for him, Withey has a skill that will make him money in the NBA: shotblocking. Withey has tremendous timing and instincts to go with the kind of size and length that makes him and elite rim protector. Withey is also a good rebounder and should make a solid back-up center.

Second Round Picks

9. Mike Muscala, Bucknell Sr. (7-0, 230)

Of this group of centers, Muscala may be the most skilled. He can really shoot the ball and can also score in the post. The main concern with Muscala is that he isn't a great athlete and may be maxed out physically and already struggles with bigger, physical defenders.

10. DeWayne Dedmon, USC Sr. (7-0, 239)

Physically developed and athletic, Dedmon looks like a First Round pick but he is turning 24 and hasn't been nearly as productive as he should have been. However, as a back-up/third center he should be able to come in and contribute based purely on physical prowess.

11. Colton Iverson, Colorado State Sr. (7-0, 263)

 The opposite of Dedmon in that he doesn't look like a First Round pick, yet he plays with a level of physicality and toughness that you just can't teach. I don't know if he'll ever play big minutes, but the as a third center who'll bring it every game and practice, he'll excell.