1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
This was a no-brainer for the Clippers from day one. Griffin was a great pick and will be a fantastic NBA player. He may or may not turn into a franchise cornerstone, but in either case, he'll be a great addition to a team that could really use some hope.
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
Thabeet fits Memphis' needs better than any other player in the draft. There was a time when I thought Rubio was a better pick because of his value, but with him slipping to Minnesota at #5, this pick is looking better and better.
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
Harden is a safe pick for Oklahoma City, but will be a great fit alongside Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. Many expected Rubio to be the pick here, but moving Westbrook off the ball would have created a lot of dissension and may have lead to Westbrook asking to leave all together.
4) SAC- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
Sacramento is set at shooting guard with Kevin Martin, so the only way this pick makes sense is if the Kings are convinced Evans can play the point in the NBA. He showed good handle and play-making ability at Memphis, but the translation to the NBA level remains to be seen.
5) MIN- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
Rubio was the man Minnesota wanted from the very beginning, so landing him at four is a dream come true for the Timberwolves. His displeasure with Minnesota's small market may lead him back to Spain, but the more likely scenario is a trade. New York, Indiana, and Dallas are all reportedly interested.
6) MIN- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
Flynn is a bit of a surprise at this pick, but with Evans and Harden off the board, Minnesota had little choice but to pick another point guard. The issue I have with the pick is that Flynn was picked ahead of Davidson's Stephen Curry, but apparently he was higher on Minnesota's board.
7) GSW- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Golden State lands a steal at #7 with Curry, who is hands down the best shooter in the draft. He also shows genuine leadership qualities and the work ethic that leads to greatness at the next level. Curry is reportedly being used as part of an impending trade for Amar'e Stoudemire, but Golden State is adamantly refuting those reports.
8) NYK- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
Hill is the third and final of the 'elite' big men in this class. The Knicks would have loved for Stephen Curry to fall to them, but Hill is a solid consolation prize. They are reportedly in heavy discussions with Minnesota to obtain Ricky Rubio, but that will likely have to wait until they re-sign Nate Robinson and/or David Lee.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG/SF (Southern Cal)
Toronto lands their athletic wing in DeRozan. He has huge upside and is a great fit in the Great White North. In the event that Chris Bosh leaves next summer, DeRozan can potentially step in as the face of the franchise. A great pick by the Raptors.
10) MIL- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
Milwaukee makes a splash by picking Jennings, a talented young point guard with great athleticism and seemingly infinite potential. The lack of a vocal leader in Milwaukee may prove to be problematic for the charismatic and immature Jennings.
11) NJN- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
New Jersey traded away Vince Carter, and replaced him with Courtney Lee and now Terrence Williams. Williams is a poor shooter, but seems to do everything else well. He'll never be a star in the NBA, but he's a good glue guy and should have a solid NBA career.
12) CHA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
Charlotte was very interested in Williams, but Henderson is a suitable consolation prize. He has a much more refined offensive game and is very athletic. He should be ready to contribute from day one.
13) IND- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
Hansbrough was a great college player, but has limited potential and will likely never be more than a backup in the NBA.
14) PHO- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
Clark is a great value at 14, as he is undoubtedly a top-10 talent. He also fills a need on the wings for Phoenix.
15) DET- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
Daye has cartoonishly long arms and is rail thin, but he has a lot of potential. He shot 43% from behind the 3-point line last year and averaged over 2 blocks a game. He'll play behind Tayshaun Prince for quite some time.
16) CHI- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
Johnson is very versatile and has an NBA-ready body. He should help Chicago on the boards and may make Tyrus Thomas expendable.
17) PHI- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
Holiday is a great value at this pick. He may never turn into Philadelphia's point guard of the future, but he was almost impossible to pass up with this pick.
18) MIN- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
Minnesota picks their third first round point guard, but trades him to Denver for a 2010 first round pick (originally belonging to Charlotte). Lawson will be a great fit behind Chauncey Billups in Denver and constitutes a great value with this pick.
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
Teague is a great scorer and lightning-quick off the dribble. He has a lot of potential and could play a little at the off-guard in the right situation.
20) UTA- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
Utah surprised some by picking Maynor to back up Deron Williams. They could use some help on the wings, but Maynor is ready to come in and contribute right away. Williams did have some injury problems last season, so a suitable backup is a nice addition for the Jazz.
21) NOH- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
Similar to the Jazz, the Hornets surprised some by grabbing a backup point guard. Chris Paul has been a very durable player, but does need a break every now and then. Collison is a solid athlete and a great leader.
22) POR- Victor Claver- PF (Spain)
Portland moving up two spots to grab Claver is interesting because he likely would have been available at #24.
23) SAC- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Casspi is a talented player who is probably a year or two away from being ready for the League. He will become a good NBA player and a team like Sacramento is in no huge hurry for improvement.
24) DAL- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
This pick had question marks all over it for a minute or two, but Dallas ultimately moved it to OKC for their pick and a future second round pick.
25) OKC- Rodrigue Beaubois- PG (France)
Beaubois goes to Dallas along with a future second rounder for BJ Mullens. Mullens is a great pick for OKC and Beaubois could be a great replacement for Jason Kidd in a couple of years.
26) CHI- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
Chicago picks their second power forward in as many picks, which may mean the writing's on the wall for former top-5 pick Tyrus Thomas.
27) MEM- DeMarre Carroll- PF (Missouri)
Memphis makes a questionable pick here, passing on DeJuan Blair, who could have easily landed in the late lottery. Carroll is athletic and tenacious, but has limited upside and may have been available with Memphis next pick at 36.
28) MIN- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
Minnesota was in dire need of a shooting guard and finds a fine fit in Ellington. He is one of the more underrated players in the draft, and could wind up being a major steal at this point. His range will allow him to be a factor for Minnesota from day one.
29) NYK- Toney Douglas- PG (Florida State)
New York purchased this pick from the Lakers to land Douglas, who reminds me a lot of Nate Robinson, just 6 inches taller.
30) CLE- Christian Eyenga- SG/SF (Congo)
This was an absolute shot in the dark pick for Cleveland. GM Danny Ferry said the team was looking the player with the highest ceiling, and apparently the landed on Eyenga. An abysmal pick for Cleveland to end the first round.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Rookie Projections (Potential lottery picks)
Pick..........................Pts....Rebs...Asts...Stls.....Blks...FG%..FT%..3PM
Blake Griffin........16.7...7.8...1.2....0.6..0.9....52...62....0
Hasheem Thabeet.5.7...9.3...0.9...0.4...1.6....58...68....0
Ricky Rubio..........7.2....2.1...6.6...1.2....0.1...44....74...22
Tyreke Evans.......12.8...3.8...4.1...1.0....0.5...46...70...13
James Harden.....14.6...4.3...2.6...1.1....0.4...43....76...52
Stephen Curry.....12.3...2.3...4.7...1.0....0.1....45...83...91
Jordan Hill...........9.3....6.3..2.4...0.5....0.6...48...70....0
Jonny Flynn.........9.8....2.2..5.4....1.2....0.2...52...68...34
DeMar DeRozan..8.8....4.2..2.4....1.2....0.6...44...73....16
Jrue Holiday........4.6....2.9..2.1....0.3....0.1...41....72....3
Gerald Henderson.9.2..4.7..1.6....0.7....0.4...46...74....27
Terrence Williams.5.8..3.8..3.1....0.6....0.3...42...72....6
DeJuan Blair........6.5....7.7..0.9....0.4....0.5...51...64....0
James Johnson....4.1....3.8..0.6....0.2....0.4..46...67....0
Blake Griffin........16.7...7.8...1.2....0.6..0.9....52...62....0
Hasheem Thabeet.5.7...9.3...0.9...0.4...1.6....58...68....0
Ricky Rubio..........7.2....2.1...6.6...1.2....0.1...44....74...22
Tyreke Evans.......12.8...3.8...4.1...1.0....0.5...46...70...13
James Harden.....14.6...4.3...2.6...1.1....0.4...43....76...52
Stephen Curry.....12.3...2.3...4.7...1.0....0.1....45...83...91
Jordan Hill...........9.3....6.3..2.4...0.5....0.6...48...70....0
Jonny Flynn.........9.8....2.2..5.4....1.2....0.2...52...68...34
DeMar DeRozan..8.8....4.2..2.4....1.2....0.6...44...73....16
Jrue Holiday........4.6....2.9..2.1....0.3....0.1...41....72....3
Gerald Henderson.9.2..4.7..1.6....0.7....0.4...46...74....27
Terrence Williams.5.8..3.8..3.1....0.6....0.3...42...72....6
DeJuan Blair........6.5....7.7..0.9....0.4....0.5...51...64....0
James Johnson....4.1....3.8..0.6....0.2....0.4..46...67....0
2009 NBA Mock Draft v11.0 (Round 1)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
4) SAC- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
5) MIN- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG/SF (Southern Cal)
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
11) NJN- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
13) IND- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
14) PHO- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
18) MIN- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
20) UTA- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
21) NOH- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
22) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
23) SAC- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
24) DAL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
25) PHO- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)*
26) CHI- Sam Young- SG/SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
28) MIN- Chase Buddinger- SG/SF (Arizona)
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
30) CLE- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
*OKC trades the 25th pick to PHO for an unprotected first round pick in 2010.
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
4) SAC- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
5) MIN- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG/SF (Southern Cal)
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
11) NJN- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
13) IND- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
14) PHO- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
18) MIN- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
20) UTA- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
21) NOH- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
22) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
23) SAC- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
24) DAL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
25) PHO- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)*
26) CHI- Sam Young- SG/SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
28) MIN- Chase Buddinger- SG/SF (Arizona)
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
30) CLE- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
*OKC trades the 25th pick to PHO for an unprotected first round pick in 2010.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v10.0 (Round 1)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
A no-brainer for the Clippers.
2) MEM-Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
Memphis' asking price is simply too high. The Griz keep the pick and address their biggest need- interior defense.
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
Oklahoma City has a tough choice between Harden and Rubio. It may come down to Russell Westbrook- he showed the ability to play the point last season, but struggled with his jump shot, making the move to off-guard seem implausible.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
This is a tough pick to project for me- I really believe the Kings are extremely high on Tyreke Evans and that teams will opt for the known commodities in this draft, but Rubio has too much value and too much upside to slide past Sacramento.
5) MIN- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
The biggest obstacle to Minnesota moving up to get Ricky Rubio may have been the likelihood that they would be left with a second point guard in Stephen Curry or Jonny Flynn at number six. In this scenario, however, the Wolves get a very versatile player in Evans, who is a good replacement for Randy Foye.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Recent reports have the Wolves very high on Jonny Flynn at this spot, but I think Curry has to be the pick because of the value he represents. I still think a trade with New York at this spot is a possibility if Minnesota plays their cards right.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
Word out of San Francisco is that Don Nelson plans to move Monta Ellis to the point and play Stephen Jackson at the off-guard spot now that Jamal Crawford appears headed for Atlanta. Golden State could use a small forward or a power forward, and Hill is by far the best available at this spot.
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
New York is reportedly very high on Jrue Holiday and Brandon Jennings, as well as DeMar DeRozan, but Flynn could also be the pick here. If so, I think a trade might be in the works- specifically with Minnesota. Stay tuned.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG/SF (Southern Cal)
Recent reports have Jonny Flynn at the top of Toronto’s wish list, but DeRozan has always been a much better fit. With Flynn off the board, it should make things pretty simple for the Raptors.
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
Milwaukee could use a point guard or a power forward, and they’ve been leaning towards a point guard for some time. Holiday needs some seasoning, but he has a ton of talent and could be a star at the next level.
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
Teams' fears over Blair's knees seem to have subsided, causing Blair's stock to rebound in a big way. He is exactly the "moose" that Rod Thorn is looking for and reportedly won't slip past Indiana at 13, making a Nets-Bulls trade unlikely.
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
It seems that Charlotte is looking for an athletic off-guard. I think the would land Holiday if they had the chance, but Williams and Gerald Henderson and the options here, and Williams gets the nod because of his versatility and ability to contribute from day one.
13) IND- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
The Pacers got Brandon Rush in the draft last year, and he had a fairly respectable rookie campaign, but Henderson is a very solid prospect on the wings. If he could improve his jump shot, he could be a special player in the NBA.
14) PHO- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
The Suns will likely target an athletic wing or a replacement for Steve Nash. With Holiday and Flynn gone, the wings have much better value here. Clark and James Johnson seem to be the two possibilities.
15) DET- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
Detroit begins their rebuilding efforts with the versatile Johnson, who can play both the three and the four.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
The Bulls are reportedly very high on Hansbrough and had considered moving up (presumably) to get him. Now, with Blair back in the lottery, Chicago should able to land their man with their pick at 16.
17) PHI- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
The 76ers are high on Ty Lawson, and Jennings’ stock is taking a nosedive, but he is too good for them to pass up at 17. He will get looks at 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, and 14 and could get snatched up sooner, but falling any farther seems unlikely.
18) MIN- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
With the third of their four first round picks, Minnesota lands a project in Daye. At 6’11”, Daye has a great jump shot for a man his size, but needs to gain a lot of strength. This pick may complete the Stephen Curry-Jonny Flynn trade I discussed earlier, with Wilson Chandler thrown in as well.
19) ATL- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
The Hawks are looking to re-sign Mike Bibby and will likely land Jamal Crawford. I’ve had a point guard here since Jump Street, but with the addition of Crawford, the backcourt in Atlanta is getting a little crowded. Al Horford is a good player, but might be better suited to play the power forward in the NBA, and would allow Mullens to progress at his own pace.
20) UTA- Chase Buddinger- SG/SF (Arizona)
This is a bit of a reach with some quality point guards on the board, but Utah could really use a consistent scorer on the wings. Buddinger is versatile, athletic, and could develop into a lock-down defender.
21) NOH- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
There’s a good chance that Cleveland will move up to this spot. Ellington would be a great fit in either destination, as Chris Paul and LeBron James could each use a big time shooter on the wings.
22) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Casspi is the definition of a hit-or-miss prospect. Portland has had great luck with international prospects, and they would love for Casspi to be the next example.
23) SAC- Derrick Brown (Xavier)
Sacramento would have loved Omri Casspi, which is probably why Portland gave up two second rounders to jump above them. Brown is a solid consolation prize. He has good size and is a similar player to Joe Alexander, who went #8 last year.
24) DAL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
Dallas moves back a couple of spots, but still gets their choice of the three remaining point guards- Lawson, Jeff Teague, and Eric Maynor. They opt for Lawson, the quickest of the three and a proven winner.
25) OKC- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
After taking a guard in James Harden with the third pick, the Oklahoma City needs a big man in a huge way. Gibson has above average athleticism and a promising offensive game.
26) CHI- Sam Young- SG/SF (Pittsburgh)
With their second first-rounder, Chicago lands another NBA-ready prospect in Young, who should be an effective wingman alongside Derrick Rose for years to come.
27) MEM- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
The last thing Memphis needs is another point guard, but with Teague and Maynor on the board at 27, they opt for the best player on the board in Teague.
28) MIN- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
Minnesota lands a steal at 28 in Maynor, probably the most NBA-ready point guard in the draft. Minnesota could use depth in the backcourt after trading away Randy Foye and Mike Miller, and Maynor is a great addition.
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
Collison would have an easy transition with the Lakers after growing up in the area and playing his college ball at UCLA. (He also played with Jordan Farmar as a freshman.) He has good speed and real leadership potential.
30) CLE- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
Cleveland would love to land an elite shooter like Wayne Ellington or another freakish athlete like Chase Buddinger, but if they fail to move up to 21, they’ll settle for leftovers and grab a lengthy backup for LeBron.
A no-brainer for the Clippers.
2) MEM-Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
Memphis' asking price is simply too high. The Griz keep the pick and address their biggest need- interior defense.
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
Oklahoma City has a tough choice between Harden and Rubio. It may come down to Russell Westbrook- he showed the ability to play the point last season, but struggled with his jump shot, making the move to off-guard seem implausible.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
This is a tough pick to project for me- I really believe the Kings are extremely high on Tyreke Evans and that teams will opt for the known commodities in this draft, but Rubio has too much value and too much upside to slide past Sacramento.
5) MIN- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
The biggest obstacle to Minnesota moving up to get Ricky Rubio may have been the likelihood that they would be left with a second point guard in Stephen Curry or Jonny Flynn at number six. In this scenario, however, the Wolves get a very versatile player in Evans, who is a good replacement for Randy Foye.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Recent reports have the Wolves very high on Jonny Flynn at this spot, but I think Curry has to be the pick because of the value he represents. I still think a trade with New York at this spot is a possibility if Minnesota plays their cards right.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
Word out of San Francisco is that Don Nelson plans to move Monta Ellis to the point and play Stephen Jackson at the off-guard spot now that Jamal Crawford appears headed for Atlanta. Golden State could use a small forward or a power forward, and Hill is by far the best available at this spot.
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
New York is reportedly very high on Jrue Holiday and Brandon Jennings, as well as DeMar DeRozan, but Flynn could also be the pick here. If so, I think a trade might be in the works- specifically with Minnesota. Stay tuned.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG/SF (Southern Cal)
Recent reports have Jonny Flynn at the top of Toronto’s wish list, but DeRozan has always been a much better fit. With Flynn off the board, it should make things pretty simple for the Raptors.
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
Milwaukee could use a point guard or a power forward, and they’ve been leaning towards a point guard for some time. Holiday needs some seasoning, but he has a ton of talent and could be a star at the next level.
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
Teams' fears over Blair's knees seem to have subsided, causing Blair's stock to rebound in a big way. He is exactly the "moose" that Rod Thorn is looking for and reportedly won't slip past Indiana at 13, making a Nets-Bulls trade unlikely.
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
It seems that Charlotte is looking for an athletic off-guard. I think the would land Holiday if they had the chance, but Williams and Gerald Henderson and the options here, and Williams gets the nod because of his versatility and ability to contribute from day one.
13) IND- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
The Pacers got Brandon Rush in the draft last year, and he had a fairly respectable rookie campaign, but Henderson is a very solid prospect on the wings. If he could improve his jump shot, he could be a special player in the NBA.
14) PHO- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
The Suns will likely target an athletic wing or a replacement for Steve Nash. With Holiday and Flynn gone, the wings have much better value here. Clark and James Johnson seem to be the two possibilities.
15) DET- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
Detroit begins their rebuilding efforts with the versatile Johnson, who can play both the three and the four.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
The Bulls are reportedly very high on Hansbrough and had considered moving up (presumably) to get him. Now, with Blair back in the lottery, Chicago should able to land their man with their pick at 16.
17) PHI- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
The 76ers are high on Ty Lawson, and Jennings’ stock is taking a nosedive, but he is too good for them to pass up at 17. He will get looks at 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, and 14 and could get snatched up sooner, but falling any farther seems unlikely.
18) MIN- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
With the third of their four first round picks, Minnesota lands a project in Daye. At 6’11”, Daye has a great jump shot for a man his size, but needs to gain a lot of strength. This pick may complete the Stephen Curry-Jonny Flynn trade I discussed earlier, with Wilson Chandler thrown in as well.
19) ATL- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
The Hawks are looking to re-sign Mike Bibby and will likely land Jamal Crawford. I’ve had a point guard here since Jump Street, but with the addition of Crawford, the backcourt in Atlanta is getting a little crowded. Al Horford is a good player, but might be better suited to play the power forward in the NBA, and would allow Mullens to progress at his own pace.
20) UTA- Chase Buddinger- SG/SF (Arizona)
This is a bit of a reach with some quality point guards on the board, but Utah could really use a consistent scorer on the wings. Buddinger is versatile, athletic, and could develop into a lock-down defender.
21) NOH- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
There’s a good chance that Cleveland will move up to this spot. Ellington would be a great fit in either destination, as Chris Paul and LeBron James could each use a big time shooter on the wings.
22) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Casspi is the definition of a hit-or-miss prospect. Portland has had great luck with international prospects, and they would love for Casspi to be the next example.
23) SAC- Derrick Brown (Xavier)
Sacramento would have loved Omri Casspi, which is probably why Portland gave up two second rounders to jump above them. Brown is a solid consolation prize. He has good size and is a similar player to Joe Alexander, who went #8 last year.
24) DAL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
Dallas moves back a couple of spots, but still gets their choice of the three remaining point guards- Lawson, Jeff Teague, and Eric Maynor. They opt for Lawson, the quickest of the three and a proven winner.
25) OKC- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
After taking a guard in James Harden with the third pick, the Oklahoma City needs a big man in a huge way. Gibson has above average athleticism and a promising offensive game.
26) CHI- Sam Young- SG/SF (Pittsburgh)
With their second first-rounder, Chicago lands another NBA-ready prospect in Young, who should be an effective wingman alongside Derrick Rose for years to come.
27) MEM- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
The last thing Memphis needs is another point guard, but with Teague and Maynor on the board at 27, they opt for the best player on the board in Teague.
28) MIN- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
Minnesota lands a steal at 28 in Maynor, probably the most NBA-ready point guard in the draft. Minnesota could use depth in the backcourt after trading away Randy Foye and Mike Miller, and Maynor is a great addition.
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
Collison would have an easy transition with the Lakers after growing up in the area and playing his college ball at UCLA. (He also played with Jordan Farmar as a freshman.) He has good speed and real leadership potential.
30) CLE- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
Cleveland would love to land an elite shooter like Wayne Ellington or another freakish athlete like Chase Buddinger, but if they fail to move up to 21, they’ll settle for leftovers and grab a lengthy backup for LeBron.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v9.0 (Round 1)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
5) MIN- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)*
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)*
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
13) IND- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
14) PHO- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
15) DET- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)*
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)**
22) DAL- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
23) SAC- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
24) POR- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)**
25) OKC- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
26) CHI- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
28) MIN- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
30) CLE- Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky)
* MIN trades the draft rights to Stephen Curry (6th pick) and Austin Daye (18th pick) to the NYK for Wilson Chandler and the draft rights to Brandon Jennings (8th pick).
** NOH trades the draft rights to Ty Lawson (21st pick) to POR for the draft rights to BJ Mullens (24th pick) and cash.
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
5) MIN- Tyreke Evans- PG/SG (Memphis)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)*
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)*
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
12) CHA- Terrence Williams- SG/SF (Louisville)
13) IND- Jrue Holiday- PG/SG (UCLA)
14) PHO- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
15) DET- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)*
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)**
22) DAL- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
23) SAC- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
24) POR- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)**
25) OKC- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
26) CHI- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
28) MIN- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
29) LAL- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
30) CLE- Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky)
* MIN trades the draft rights to Stephen Curry (6th pick) and Austin Daye (18th pick) to the NYK for Wilson Chandler and the draft rights to Brandon Jennings (8th pick).
** NOH trades the draft rights to Ty Lawson (21st pick) to POR for the draft rights to BJ Mullens (24th pick) and cash.
2009 NBA Mock Draft v8.0 (Round 1)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin
A no-brainer for the Clippers.
2) MEM-Hasheem Thabeet
Memphis' asking price is simply too high. The Griz keep the pick and address their biggest need- interior defense.
3) OKC- James Harden
The Thunder have a tough choice between Harden and Rubio. It may come down to Russell Westbrook- he showed the ability to play the point last season, but struggled with his jump shot, making the move to off-guard seem implausible.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio
Sacramento stays at four and gets their pick of their presumptive top 3- Rubio, Tyreke Evans, and Jonny Flynn. Rubio makes the biggest splash and has the most upside, which makes him a good fit for a team still in the middle of the rebuilding process.
5) WAS- Tyreke Evans
Evans has blazing speed and great size and will be able to play the one or the two in the NBA. He would be a good fit in Washington, but may still be headed to a different destination.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry
Minnesota has been very aggressively looking to move up. If they're unable to do so, they'll land a very solid player at 6 in Curry. His jump shot and heart will make him an effective player for years to come.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill
Whether or not a promise was made to Monta Ellis, Hill is the best pick here. He's a top five talent and has huge value. If the Warriors decide against him, they should look to trade the pick, because New York is said to be very high on the Arizona Junior.
8) NYK- Brandon Jennings
If the draft plays out this way, the Knicks will have a tough choice between Jennings and Jrue Holiday. Holiday has great size and a lot of upside, but could easily be a bust. Jennings has similar upside, but is more of a known commodity.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan
Toronto needs an athlete on the wings and DeRozan is the perfect fit. Toronto would be crushed to see DeRozan off the board here, because their other options (Gerald Henderson, Earl Clark) are a huge step down.
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday
The biggest hit-or-miss prospect in the draft, Holiday will be aided by the return of Ramon Sessions now that Milwaukee has freed up some cap space.
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair
Teams' fears over Blair's knees seem to have calmed, causing Blair's stock to rebound in a big way. He is exactly the "moose" that Rod Thorn is looking for and reportedly won't slip past Indiana at 13, making a Nets-Bulls trade unlikely.
12) CHA- Terrence Williams
It seems that Charlotte is looking for an athletic off-guard. I think they would land Holiday if they had the chance, but Williams and Gerald Henderson and the options here, and Williams gets the nod because he's ready to contribute from day one.
13) IND- Jonny Flynn
Flynn will get looks from teams as high as number four, but will be hurt by the depth of the point guards in this draft. I don't see him falling past 14, but #13 to Indiana would be a good fit as well.
14) PHO- Earl Clark
The Suns will likely target an athletic wing or a replacement for Steve Nash. With Holiday, Flynn, and Jennings all gone, the wings have much better value here. Clark and Gerald Henderson seem to be the two possibilities.
15) DET- James Johnson
Detroit begins their rebuilding efforts with the versatile Johnson, who can play both the three and the four.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough
The Bulls are reportedly very high on Hansbrough and had considered moving up (presumably) to get him. Now, with Blair back in the lottery, Chicago should able to land their man with their pick at 16.
17) PHI- Gerald Henderson
Philadelphia would love to land a point guard with this spot, but Henderson's value is just too large to pass up. A trade is another possibility here.
18) MIN- BJ Mullens
As a Timberwolves fan, I think that Mullens is a terrible fit in Minnesota, which is exactly why I think the Wolves will draft him. Mullens has great size, but little defensive aptitude- the Wolves' major need on the inside, and is years away from being a consistent contributor.
19) ATL- Jeff Teague
Atlanta hopes to re-sign Mike Bibby, but are still in search of their point-guard-of-the-future, after Acie Law didn't pan out. Teague can play a little off the ball, too, which would help if the Hawks can't re-sign Marvin Williams.
20) POR (from UTA)- Ty Lawson*
Lawson reportedly has many suitors, but will likely be another casualty of the point guard depth in this draft. He could factor in the late lottery, but in this scenario, Portland gives the 24th pick and the rights to Petri Koponen to move up and grab him at #20.
21) CLE (from NOH)- Wayne Ellington*
Ellington could well be the biggest sleeper in the draft. New Orleans has been vocally shopping this pick for some financial relief, and the Cavaliers, in dire need of a shooter, would be happy to oblige.
22) DAL- Eric Maynor
Maynor is perhaps the most NBA-ready of all the point guards in the class, and would be a steal at number 22. Dallas could also pick a wing to make Josh Howard expendable, but Maynor would be a great replacement for Jason Kidd.
23) SAC- Austin Daye
Daye is another hit-or-miss project in need of some seasoning, which makes him perfect for a mid-rebuilding franchise like Sacramento.
24) UTA (from POR)- Chase Buddinger*
Utah uses their 20th pick to land a promising foreign prospect in Petri Koponen and still grabs the guy the wanted at 20 in Chase Buddinger.
25) OKC- Taj Gibson
After taking a guard in James Harden with the third pick, the Thunder need a big man in a huge way. Gibson has above average athleticism and a promising offensive game.
26) CHI- Omri Casspi
Chicago has their point guard in Derrick Rose, and grabbed one of the few big men available in Tyler Hansbrough at #16. Now, they need to find an athletic wing man. Casspi has a lot of upside, but may need a year or two.
27) MEM- Derrick Brown
Brown is very long and athletic and has a pretty respectable jump shot. Some execs believe he will be able to play the four in the NBA, but I'm not sold. Memphis could roll the dice with him or opt for a foreign power forward like Jonas Jerebko or Victor Claver.
28) MIN- Sam Young
After landing a point guard and a true center, the Timberwolves get a great value in Young at #28. Young is a very capable scorer and is one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft.
29) LAL- Darren Collison
Collison would have an easy transition with the Lakers after playing his college ball at UCLA. (He also played with Jordan Farmar as a freshman.) He has good speed and real leadership potential.
30) NOH (from CLE)- Marcus Thornton*
Thornton had a good workout with the Hornets and is reportedly very high on their list. If they could swing a deal to get some cash and still land Thornton, they would jump at the opportunity.
UTA trades the 20th pick to POR for the 24th pick and the rights to Petri Koponen.
NOH trades the 21st pick to CLE for the 30th pick and cash.
A no-brainer for the Clippers.
2) MEM-Hasheem Thabeet
Memphis' asking price is simply too high. The Griz keep the pick and address their biggest need- interior defense.
3) OKC- James Harden
The Thunder have a tough choice between Harden and Rubio. It may come down to Russell Westbrook- he showed the ability to play the point last season, but struggled with his jump shot, making the move to off-guard seem implausible.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio
Sacramento stays at four and gets their pick of their presumptive top 3- Rubio, Tyreke Evans, and Jonny Flynn. Rubio makes the biggest splash and has the most upside, which makes him a good fit for a team still in the middle of the rebuilding process.
5) WAS- Tyreke Evans
Evans has blazing speed and great size and will be able to play the one or the two in the NBA. He would be a good fit in Washington, but may still be headed to a different destination.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry
Minnesota has been very aggressively looking to move up. If they're unable to do so, they'll land a very solid player at 6 in Curry. His jump shot and heart will make him an effective player for years to come.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill
Whether or not a promise was made to Monta Ellis, Hill is the best pick here. He's a top five talent and has huge value. If the Warriors decide against him, they should look to trade the pick, because New York is said to be very high on the Arizona Junior.
8) NYK- Brandon Jennings
If the draft plays out this way, the Knicks will have a tough choice between Jennings and Jrue Holiday. Holiday has great size and a lot of upside, but could easily be a bust. Jennings has similar upside, but is more of a known commodity.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan
Toronto needs an athlete on the wings and DeRozan is the perfect fit. Toronto would be crushed to see DeRozan off the board here, because their other options (Gerald Henderson, Earl Clark) are a huge step down.
10) MIL- Jrue Holiday
The biggest hit-or-miss prospect in the draft, Holiday will be aided by the return of Ramon Sessions now that Milwaukee has freed up some cap space.
11) NJN- DeJuan Blair
Teams' fears over Blair's knees seem to have calmed, causing Blair's stock to rebound in a big way. He is exactly the "moose" that Rod Thorn is looking for and reportedly won't slip past Indiana at 13, making a Nets-Bulls trade unlikely.
12) CHA- Terrence Williams
It seems that Charlotte is looking for an athletic off-guard. I think they would land Holiday if they had the chance, but Williams and Gerald Henderson and the options here, and Williams gets the nod because he's ready to contribute from day one.
13) IND- Jonny Flynn
Flynn will get looks from teams as high as number four, but will be hurt by the depth of the point guards in this draft. I don't see him falling past 14, but #13 to Indiana would be a good fit as well.
14) PHO- Earl Clark
The Suns will likely target an athletic wing or a replacement for Steve Nash. With Holiday, Flynn, and Jennings all gone, the wings have much better value here. Clark and Gerald Henderson seem to be the two possibilities.
15) DET- James Johnson
Detroit begins their rebuilding efforts with the versatile Johnson, who can play both the three and the four.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough
The Bulls are reportedly very high on Hansbrough and had considered moving up (presumably) to get him. Now, with Blair back in the lottery, Chicago should able to land their man with their pick at 16.
17) PHI- Gerald Henderson
Philadelphia would love to land a point guard with this spot, but Henderson's value is just too large to pass up. A trade is another possibility here.
18) MIN- BJ Mullens
As a Timberwolves fan, I think that Mullens is a terrible fit in Minnesota, which is exactly why I think the Wolves will draft him. Mullens has great size, but little defensive aptitude- the Wolves' major need on the inside, and is years away from being a consistent contributor.
19) ATL- Jeff Teague
Atlanta hopes to re-sign Mike Bibby, but are still in search of their point-guard-of-the-future, after Acie Law didn't pan out. Teague can play a little off the ball, too, which would help if the Hawks can't re-sign Marvin Williams.
20) POR (from UTA)- Ty Lawson*
Lawson reportedly has many suitors, but will likely be another casualty of the point guard depth in this draft. He could factor in the late lottery, but in this scenario, Portland gives the 24th pick and the rights to Petri Koponen to move up and grab him at #20.
21) CLE (from NOH)- Wayne Ellington*
Ellington could well be the biggest sleeper in the draft. New Orleans has been vocally shopping this pick for some financial relief, and the Cavaliers, in dire need of a shooter, would be happy to oblige.
22) DAL- Eric Maynor
Maynor is perhaps the most NBA-ready of all the point guards in the class, and would be a steal at number 22. Dallas could also pick a wing to make Josh Howard expendable, but Maynor would be a great replacement for Jason Kidd.
23) SAC- Austin Daye
Daye is another hit-or-miss project in need of some seasoning, which makes him perfect for a mid-rebuilding franchise like Sacramento.
24) UTA (from POR)- Chase Buddinger*
Utah uses their 20th pick to land a promising foreign prospect in Petri Koponen and still grabs the guy the wanted at 20 in Chase Buddinger.
25) OKC- Taj Gibson
After taking a guard in James Harden with the third pick, the Thunder need a big man in a huge way. Gibson has above average athleticism and a promising offensive game.
26) CHI- Omri Casspi
Chicago has their point guard in Derrick Rose, and grabbed one of the few big men available in Tyler Hansbrough at #16. Now, they need to find an athletic wing man. Casspi has a lot of upside, but may need a year or two.
27) MEM- Derrick Brown
Brown is very long and athletic and has a pretty respectable jump shot. Some execs believe he will be able to play the four in the NBA, but I'm not sold. Memphis could roll the dice with him or opt for a foreign power forward like Jonas Jerebko or Victor Claver.
28) MIN- Sam Young
After landing a point guard and a true center, the Timberwolves get a great value in Young at #28. Young is a very capable scorer and is one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft.
29) LAL- Darren Collison
Collison would have an easy transition with the Lakers after playing his college ball at UCLA. (He also played with Jordan Farmar as a freshman.) He has good speed and real leadership potential.
30) NOH (from CLE)- Marcus Thornton*
Thornton had a good workout with the Hornets and is reportedly very high on their list. If they could swing a deal to get some cash and still land Thornton, they would jump at the opportunity.
UTA trades the 20th pick to POR for the 24th pick and the rights to Petri Koponen.
NOH trades the 21st pick to CLE for the 30th pick and cash.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v7.0 (Round 1)
I’m still convinced that the New York Knicks will do something on or around draft day. Ricky Rubio’s latest meeting in Sacramento didn’t go according to plan after the 18-year-old Spaniard came down with an illness. If the Kings aren’t necessarily sold on Rubio at this point, the following sign-and-trade makes sense: New York re-sings Nate Robinson and trades him, along with Wilson Chandler, for the rights to the fourth overall draft pick, Ricky Rubio. It would give Sacramento a solid young starting lineup of Robinson, Kevin Martin, Chandler, Jason Thompson, and Spencer Hawes. New York, on the other hand, would re-sign David Lee, and offer him, alongside Rubio and 8th overall pick DeMar DeRozan as a solid supporting cast to surround LeBron James. Trade or no trade, I think the following mock is still valid.
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
5) WAS- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
6) MIN- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
9) TOR- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) NJN- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
13) IND- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
14) PHO- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SG (Louisville)
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
22) DAL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
23) SAC- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
25) OKC- Victor Claver- PF (Spain)
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
27) MEM- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Jonas Jerebko- PF (Sweden)
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
5) WAS- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
6) MIN- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) NYK- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
9) TOR- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) NJN- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
13) IND- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
14) PHO- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SG (Louisville)
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
22) DAL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
23) SAC- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
25) OKC- Victor Claver- PF (Spain)
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
27) MEM- DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Jonas Jerebko- PF (Sweden)
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
Friday, June 19, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v6.0 (Round 1)
The newest version of my mock incorporates the new information about the picks for Washington, Golden State, New York, Toronto, Charlotte, and Philadelphia. At this point, I think that the Ty Lawson news is just an attempt by his agent to get his stock moving, not a guarantee that anything is impending. I also haven’t included a trade-in by New Jersey. I think they’ll keep the 11th pick, and if they do eventually jump back in to the back end of the first round, it would likely be at #21, where New Orleans has made their pick available.
1) LAC- Blake Griffin
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet
3) OKC- James Harden
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio
5) WAS- Jordan Hill
6) MIN- Stephen Curry
7) GSW- DeMar DeRozan
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn
9) TOR- Gerald Henderson
10) MIL- Jeff Teague
11) NJN- Tyreke Evans
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday
13) IND- Austin Daye
14) PHO- Brandon Jennings
15) DET- BJ Mullens
16) CHI- James Johnson
17) PHI- Terrence Williams
18) MIN- Earl Clark
19) ATL- Eric Maynor
20) UTA- Tyler Hansbrough
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton
22) DAL- Ty Lawson
23) SAC- Omri Casspi
24) POR- DeJuan Blair
25) OKC- Victor Claver
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington
27) MEM- Derrick Brown
28) MIN- Sam Young
29) LAL- DaJuan Summers
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger
Moved In: Victor Claver, DaJuan Summers
Moved Out: Taj Gibson, Darren Collison
1) LAC- Blake Griffin
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet
3) OKC- James Harden
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio
5) WAS- Jordan Hill
6) MIN- Stephen Curry
7) GSW- DeMar DeRozan
8) NYK- Jonny Flynn
9) TOR- Gerald Henderson
10) MIL- Jeff Teague
11) NJN- Tyreke Evans
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday
13) IND- Austin Daye
14) PHO- Brandon Jennings
15) DET- BJ Mullens
16) CHI- James Johnson
17) PHI- Terrence Williams
18) MIN- Earl Clark
19) ATL- Eric Maynor
20) UTA- Tyler Hansbrough
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton
22) DAL- Ty Lawson
23) SAC- Omri Casspi
24) POR- DeJuan Blair
25) OKC- Victor Claver
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington
27) MEM- Derrick Brown
28) MIN- Sam Young
29) LAL- DaJuan Summers
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger
Moved In: Victor Claver, DaJuan Summers
Moved Out: Taj Gibson, Darren Collison
NBA Draft Rumors (6/19)
Washington- Washington and Phoenix are discussing a deal centering on Phoenix big man Amare Stoudemire and Washington’s biggest asset- their fifth overall selection in the upcoming draft. Sources close to the deal say it has a “decent chance” of happening. Reports also have Washington high on Arizona’s Jordan Hill if they do decide to keep the 5th pick.
Golden State- Expanding on the rumored promise of a point guard-free first-round for Golden State, a source close to the Warriors has said that Jordan Hill is the intended target at #7.
Ty Lawson- Lawson’s agent, Jeffrey Fried, mentioned Tuesday that three teams were interested in moving into the “7-to-11 range” to pick his client. Of the three, Fried says two are looking to move up and one is looking to drop down.
Toronto- The Raptors are reportedly in the market for an athletic wingman with their ninth overall pick, with DeMar DeRozan, Gerald Henderson, James Johnson, and Earl Clark all possible.
Golden State- Expanding on the rumored promise of a point guard-free first-round for Golden State, a source close to the Warriors has said that Jordan Hill is the intended target at #7.
Ty Lawson- Lawson’s agent, Jeffrey Fried, mentioned Tuesday that three teams were interested in moving into the “7-to-11 range” to pick his client. Of the three, Fried says two are looking to move up and one is looking to drop down.
Toronto- The Raptors are reportedly in the market for an athletic wingman with their ninth overall pick, with DeMar DeRozan, Gerald Henderson, James Johnson, and Earl Clark all possible.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
NBA Draft Rumors (6/17)
Oklahoma City- Word out of the Thunder camp is that Oklahoma City has soured on Ricky Rubio, and would likely pass on him if he fell to number three. Rather, Oklahoma City is reportedly eyeing both Arizona State’s James Harden and Davidson’s Stephen Curry. Harden would be a great fit for the Thunder, slotting between Russell Westbrook at the one and Kevin Durant at the three. Curry, on the other hand, would create a more interesting backcourt rotation. Curry and Westbrook both have point guard skills, but are more suited to play off the ball. Having both in the same backcourt could be a great match, but it could also lead to problems defensively.
Golden State- Monta Ellis has been vocal in recent days about his displeasure with the organization and the way things are moving. This has led to speculation that the Warriors may have made a promise to Ellis that they won’t draft a point guard with the seventh overall pick. Considering where Golden State lands in the draft order, this would seem to really pigeonhole their options.
New York- Word from Knicks GM Donnie Walsh is that the team is extremely high on Arizona power forward Jordan Hill. The team had done a good job of staying hush on the topic until recent reports had Hill ahead of Davidson guard Stephen Curry on New York’s wish list.
New Jersey- The Nets are reportedly very high on Israeli small forward Omri Casspi. Casspi, the consensus #2 international prospect in the class (not counting Brandon Jennings), is projected in the late teens to early 20’s, meaning that New Jersey would either need to trade down from #11 or make their pick and find some way of trading back into the late first-round. (Sean Williams and Yi Jianlian are two movable assets.)
Philadelphia- In what appears to be a cost cutting move, Philadelphia is actively working to complete a trade with the Bobcats that would send veteran center Samuel Dalembert to Charlotte. In exchange, Philadelphia would reportedly receive center Nazr Mohammed and another player. The teams would also swap picks as part of the deal, landing Philly the number 12 pick and moving Charlotte down to number 17.
Atlanta- In addition to allegedly shopping power forward Josh Smith, Atlanta is looking to package their first-round pick (#19), with Speedy Claxton’s contract in order to create some cap space, which they hope to use to re-sign point guard Mike Bibby. Little progress has been made, and no specifics about a destination or a compensation package have been released, but something is definitely brewing in A-town.
Golden State- Monta Ellis has been vocal in recent days about his displeasure with the organization and the way things are moving. This has led to speculation that the Warriors may have made a promise to Ellis that they won’t draft a point guard with the seventh overall pick. Considering where Golden State lands in the draft order, this would seem to really pigeonhole their options.
New York- Word from Knicks GM Donnie Walsh is that the team is extremely high on Arizona power forward Jordan Hill. The team had done a good job of staying hush on the topic until recent reports had Hill ahead of Davidson guard Stephen Curry on New York’s wish list.
New Jersey- The Nets are reportedly very high on Israeli small forward Omri Casspi. Casspi, the consensus #2 international prospect in the class (not counting Brandon Jennings), is projected in the late teens to early 20’s, meaning that New Jersey would either need to trade down from #11 or make their pick and find some way of trading back into the late first-round. (Sean Williams and Yi Jianlian are two movable assets.)
Philadelphia- In what appears to be a cost cutting move, Philadelphia is actively working to complete a trade with the Bobcats that would send veteran center Samuel Dalembert to Charlotte. In exchange, Philadelphia would reportedly receive center Nazr Mohammed and another player. The teams would also swap picks as part of the deal, landing Philly the number 12 pick and moving Charlotte down to number 17.
Atlanta- In addition to allegedly shopping power forward Josh Smith, Atlanta is looking to package their first-round pick (#19), with Speedy Claxton’s contract in order to create some cap space, which they hope to use to re-sign point guard Mike Bibby. Little progress has been made, and no specifics about a destination or a compensation package have been released, but something is definitely brewing in A-town.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v5.0 (Round 1)
]1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
The easiest pick to project- even the Clippers can’t screw up this one.
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
This is the first change in my mock. Thabeet is hands down the best center in this class, and has proven to be an engaging and likeable prospect during the interview cycle. The change here, though, has less to do with Thabeet and more to do with Ricky Rubio. Rubio’s stock has been sliding lately- there are still questions about his durability and the impending buyout from his Spanish club. There is also a little dissention from some regarding his absence from the Pre-Draft Combine and the Reebok Eurocamp, and his reluctance to participate in individual or small-group workouts.
At first, I thought Rubio had too much value to fall past #2, but I get the sense that some teams are beginning to sour on the young Spaniard, meaning the safe bet for Memphis is to draft the player they really want- Thabeet.
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
OKC is reportedly very high on Harden and with Thabeet coming off the board at #2 this is really a no-brainer for the Thunder.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
This is a tricky pick as Sacramento is reportedly very high on Tyreke Evans, and vice versa. However, the Kings would have considered Rubio at #1 had they won the lottery, so I’m hard-pressed to believe they would pass on him at #4.
5) WAS- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
There’s a very good chance that someone other than Washington will occupy this spot come draft night. Who that team might be is anyone’s guess at this point, but Evans is the guy moving up on most people’s draft boards, so I think he’ll be the pick here if a trade does occur.
6) MIN- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
Stephen Curry fills more of a need for Minnesota, but their front office seems to be blinded by potential from time-to-time, and this has all the makings of one of those cases. DeRozan will fill a need on the wings for Minnesota, who will look to find a point guard with one of their other two first-round picks.
7) GSW- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
Flynn is a great leader and a capable scorer, who really excels in the open court. Golden State could use a true point guard who can get up and down, and Flynn seems to be a great fit.
8) NYK- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Curry could be the pick at 6 to Minnesota or at 5, depending on who jumps into that spot (Charlotte would be one possibility), but if he’s on the board at #8, don’t expect him to be there at #9.
9) TOR- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
This is a tough spot for Toronto if Hill falls to them. He’s basically Chris Bosh Light, so they don’t have much of a need for him (at least in the immediate future), but he’s the only player with value at #9. Toronto has made draft day trades each of the last two years, and this year could be no exception. If the draft falls this way, look for Portland to try and package Travis Outlaw, Sergio Rodriguez, and the #24 pick to move up to this spot.
10) MIL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
Milwaukee is reportedly very high on Teague, and while they would have loved to land Hill with this pick and re-sign Ramon Sessions, drafting Teague and re-upping Charlie Villanueva will have to suffice.
11) NJN- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
It’s no secret that New Jersey is looking for a banger with their selection in the lottery, but DeJuan Blair has been tumbling down draft boards because of injury concerns, and Tyler Hansbrough is just not a lottery-level talent, which means Johnson will be the pick at #11.
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
This would be a good situation for Holiday, because playing with Raymond Felton and DJ Augistin puts him in a low-pressure situation, and would probably allow him to get some run at the off-guard. If Charlotte can put together a suitable offer to move up, it could be Washington picking here, but I think the pick would be the same.
13) IND- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
Indiana would love to land Jonny Flynn and is another possible trade partner for Memphis, Sacramento, Washington or New York. Assuming they stay at 13, Indiana will be luck to land a player of Jennings’ ability.
14) PHO- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
With all of the lottery-level point guards off the board, and a thin crop of available big men, Phoenix will turns it’s sights to the wings. Williams is a versatile ball-handler, who will be a great NBA player and a great fit with the Suns if he can iron out the inconsistencies with his jump shot. Gerald Henderson and Earl Clark are also possibilities here.
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
Mullens began canceling workouts recently, stating that he’d received a promise in the top 16. That has fueled debate over the source of the promise, but I believe it has to be either Detroit at 15 or Chicago at 16. Chicago could use an upgrade at center, but Aaron Gray and Joakim Noah are still on the roster, which leads me to believe Mullens will land in Detroit.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
Hansbrough’s stock has been rising because of his strong showing at the Pre-Draft Combine and his solid workouts. He will also be aided by the relatively thin class of big men, the injury concerns surrounding DeJuan Blair, and Chicago’s history of success when drafting players from UNC.
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
The 76ers could use a replacement for Andre Miller, and Maynor is a great option. He can stretch the defense with his shooting ability, and is arguably the most NBA-ready point guard in a very deep class at the position.
18) MIN- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
Minnesota is still in search of their point guard, but with a top 10 talent like Clark still on the board at 18, it’s tough to pass on him, especially with a third first-rounder still to come.
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
Atlanta needs to find the heir to Mike Bibby and Lawson is clearly the best point guard still available. He provides leadership and quickness to an already very athletic basketball team.
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
Henderson, like Earl Clark, is a player with lottery talent who will fall on draft night because he is relatively enigmatic. He has good athleticism, but has below average size and an inconsistent jump shot. Utah could use him to platoon with Ronnie Brewer and create a very athletic and capable off-guard rotation.
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
The Hornets have only worked out guards, so there is no mystery what they’ll look to do if they keep this pick. Thornton had a very strong showing in his workout in New Orleans, distinguishing himself against the likes of Henderson and Chase Buddinger.
22) DAL- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
Josh Howard may have worn out his welcome in Dallas, and Brown offers a lot of the same qualities. He is a long and lean, can guard the three and the four, and scores in bunches.
23) SAC- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
Daye has a lot of upside but is light-years away from being a productive NBA player. It’s likely that he’ll go much higher come draft day, but for now, I’m sticking with my instincts and slotting him with a rebuilding team sporting multiple first-round selections.
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Portland is still looking for their long-term answer at small forward. Point guard is still a possibility, but the Blazers should have a pretty full roster next year, making a European player like Casspi the perfect fit.
25) OKC- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
I fear that Blair could experience the same kind of tumble down the first round that Darrell Arthur did due to injury concerns last year. He would be a good fit with the Thunder, allowing them to play Durant and Green at the two and three from time-to-time, instead of the three and the four, where they are slightly outmatched physically.
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
With their second pick, the Bulls grab another National Champion and another Tar Heel. Ellington showed a lot of competitiveness and heart in UNC’s championship run, and I’m convinced he’ll be a very productive NBA player. This is a great pick for Chicago- maybe the steal of the first round.
27) MEM- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
With Thabeet slotted in as the second pick, Memphis still has a need at power forward. Gibson was productive in his career at USC and had a very solid NCAA tournament performance this past year (Including a perfect shooting performance against Boston College in the first round.), as well as a strong showing at the Pre-Draft Combine.
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
Collison was a steady performer in his four years at UCLA. He is a true point guard with good speed and solid athleticism. In a year with less depth at the point guard position, Collison would have landed somewhere in the mid-teens. As it stands, he’s a great pick for the Timberwolves, who finally get their point guard.
29) LAL- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
Young has an NBA body and a very respectable jump shot. He is one of the more NBA-ready players in this draft and would soften the loss of either Trevor Ariza or Lamar Odom, or both.
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
Buddinger is another enigma in this draft. He is a great shooter and has above average athleticism, but had very unimpressive measurements at the Pre-Draft Combine. He has very short arms, which may make him a defensive liability, but there’s no question that he’s an upgrade over the departing Wally Szczerbiak.
The easiest pick to project- even the Clippers can’t screw up this one.
2) MEM- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
This is the first change in my mock. Thabeet is hands down the best center in this class, and has proven to be an engaging and likeable prospect during the interview cycle. The change here, though, has less to do with Thabeet and more to do with Ricky Rubio. Rubio’s stock has been sliding lately- there are still questions about his durability and the impending buyout from his Spanish club. There is also a little dissention from some regarding his absence from the Pre-Draft Combine and the Reebok Eurocamp, and his reluctance to participate in individual or small-group workouts.
At first, I thought Rubio had too much value to fall past #2, but I get the sense that some teams are beginning to sour on the young Spaniard, meaning the safe bet for Memphis is to draft the player they really want- Thabeet.
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
OKC is reportedly very high on Harden and with Thabeet coming off the board at #2 this is really a no-brainer for the Thunder.
4) SAC- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
This is a tricky pick as Sacramento is reportedly very high on Tyreke Evans, and vice versa. However, the Kings would have considered Rubio at #1 had they won the lottery, so I’m hard-pressed to believe they would pass on him at #4.
5) WAS- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
There’s a very good chance that someone other than Washington will occupy this spot come draft night. Who that team might be is anyone’s guess at this point, but Evans is the guy moving up on most people’s draft boards, so I think he’ll be the pick here if a trade does occur.
6) MIN- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
Stephen Curry fills more of a need for Minnesota, but their front office seems to be blinded by potential from time-to-time, and this has all the makings of one of those cases. DeRozan will fill a need on the wings for Minnesota, who will look to find a point guard with one of their other two first-round picks.
7) GSW- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
Flynn is a great leader and a capable scorer, who really excels in the open court. Golden State could use a true point guard who can get up and down, and Flynn seems to be a great fit.
8) NYK- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Curry could be the pick at 6 to Minnesota or at 5, depending on who jumps into that spot (Charlotte would be one possibility), but if he’s on the board at #8, don’t expect him to be there at #9.
9) TOR- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
This is a tough spot for Toronto if Hill falls to them. He’s basically Chris Bosh Light, so they don’t have much of a need for him (at least in the immediate future), but he’s the only player with value at #9. Toronto has made draft day trades each of the last two years, and this year could be no exception. If the draft falls this way, look for Portland to try and package Travis Outlaw, Sergio Rodriguez, and the #24 pick to move up to this spot.
10) MIL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
Milwaukee is reportedly very high on Teague, and while they would have loved to land Hill with this pick and re-sign Ramon Sessions, drafting Teague and re-upping Charlie Villanueva will have to suffice.
11) NJN- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
It’s no secret that New Jersey is looking for a banger with their selection in the lottery, but DeJuan Blair has been tumbling down draft boards because of injury concerns, and Tyler Hansbrough is just not a lottery-level talent, which means Johnson will be the pick at #11.
12) CHA- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
This would be a good situation for Holiday, because playing with Raymond Felton and DJ Augistin puts him in a low-pressure situation, and would probably allow him to get some run at the off-guard. If Charlotte can put together a suitable offer to move up, it could be Washington picking here, but I think the pick would be the same.
13) IND- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
Indiana would love to land Jonny Flynn and is another possible trade partner for Memphis, Sacramento, Washington or New York. Assuming they stay at 13, Indiana will be luck to land a player of Jennings’ ability.
14) PHO- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
With all of the lottery-level point guards off the board, and a thin crop of available big men, Phoenix will turns it’s sights to the wings. Williams is a versatile ball-handler, who will be a great NBA player and a great fit with the Suns if he can iron out the inconsistencies with his jump shot. Gerald Henderson and Earl Clark are also possibilities here.
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
Mullens began canceling workouts recently, stating that he’d received a promise in the top 16. That has fueled debate over the source of the promise, but I believe it has to be either Detroit at 15 or Chicago at 16. Chicago could use an upgrade at center, but Aaron Gray and Joakim Noah are still on the roster, which leads me to believe Mullens will land in Detroit.
16) CHI- Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
Hansbrough’s stock has been rising because of his strong showing at the Pre-Draft Combine and his solid workouts. He will also be aided by the relatively thin class of big men, the injury concerns surrounding DeJuan Blair, and Chicago’s history of success when drafting players from UNC.
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
The 76ers could use a replacement for Andre Miller, and Maynor is a great option. He can stretch the defense with his shooting ability, and is arguably the most NBA-ready point guard in a very deep class at the position.
18) MIN- Earl Clark- SF (Louisville)
Minnesota is still in search of their point guard, but with a top 10 talent like Clark still on the board at 18, it’s tough to pass on him, especially with a third first-rounder still to come.
19) ATL- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
Atlanta needs to find the heir to Mike Bibby and Lawson is clearly the best point guard still available. He provides leadership and quickness to an already very athletic basketball team.
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
Henderson, like Earl Clark, is a player with lottery talent who will fall on draft night because he is relatively enigmatic. He has good athleticism, but has below average size and an inconsistent jump shot. Utah could use him to platoon with Ronnie Brewer and create a very athletic and capable off-guard rotation.
21) NOH- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
The Hornets have only worked out guards, so there is no mystery what they’ll look to do if they keep this pick. Thornton had a very strong showing in his workout in New Orleans, distinguishing himself against the likes of Henderson and Chase Buddinger.
22) DAL- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
Josh Howard may have worn out his welcome in Dallas, and Brown offers a lot of the same qualities. He is a long and lean, can guard the three and the four, and scores in bunches.
23) SAC- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
Daye has a lot of upside but is light-years away from being a productive NBA player. It’s likely that he’ll go much higher come draft day, but for now, I’m sticking with my instincts and slotting him with a rebuilding team sporting multiple first-round selections.
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Portland is still looking for their long-term answer at small forward. Point guard is still a possibility, but the Blazers should have a pretty full roster next year, making a European player like Casspi the perfect fit.
25) OKC- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
I fear that Blair could experience the same kind of tumble down the first round that Darrell Arthur did due to injury concerns last year. He would be a good fit with the Thunder, allowing them to play Durant and Green at the two and three from time-to-time, instead of the three and the four, where they are slightly outmatched physically.
26) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
With their second pick, the Bulls grab another National Champion and another Tar Heel. Ellington showed a lot of competitiveness and heart in UNC’s championship run, and I’m convinced he’ll be a very productive NBA player. This is a great pick for Chicago- maybe the steal of the first round.
27) MEM- Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
With Thabeet slotted in as the second pick, Memphis still has a need at power forward. Gibson was productive in his career at USC and had a very solid NCAA tournament performance this past year (Including a perfect shooting performance against Boston College in the first round.), as well as a strong showing at the Pre-Draft Combine.
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
Collison was a steady performer in his four years at UCLA. He is a true point guard with good speed and solid athleticism. In a year with less depth at the point guard position, Collison would have landed somewhere in the mid-teens. As it stands, he’s a great pick for the Timberwolves, who finally get their point guard.
29) LAL- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
Young has an NBA body and a very respectable jump shot. He is one of the more NBA-ready players in this draft and would soften the loss of either Trevor Ariza or Lamar Odom, or both.
30) CLE- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
Buddinger is another enigma in this draft. He is a great shooter and has above average athleticism, but had very unimpressive measurements at the Pre-Draft Combine. He has very short arms, which may make him a defensive liability, but there’s no question that he’s an upgrade over the departing Wally Szczerbiak.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Happy Day in L.A.
Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers closed out the Orlando Magic in Game 5 of the NBA Finals Sunday night, solidifying their place as the team of the decade. Bryant has led the NBA’s most recognizable franchise to six NBA Finals appearances over the last ten seasons, and he now has four championship rings to his name.
Surpassing Tim Duncan’s San Antonio Spurs for the most championships won in the decade is a great accomplishment, and one surely not lost on Kobe, but what really distinguishes this title run for the NBA’s most dominating talent is one giant, glaring absence.
Of course, I’m referring to ‘The Diesel’, Shaquille O’Neal. Alongside O’Neal, Bryant took his first four trips to the Finals, and won his first three championship rings. Like a shark getting his first taste of blood, the success Bryant achieved with O’Neal fueled his greatness, but it also illuminated his greatest flaw.
Bryant’s supreme confidence has been vital to his basketball success at every level. Announcing his jump straight from high school to the NBA, Bryant stood behind a podium, grinning from ear-to-ear, as if he knew something the rest of us didn’t, as if his crystal ball had shown him all of this- the championships, the droves of fans, the money, and most importantly of all, the legacy.
In the six seasons that separated Bryant’s third and fourth championships, he wore many hats- the next MJ, the immature whiner, the villain who forced Shaq and Phil Jackson out of town, the villain who allegedly raped a young woman in Colorado, the wrongly accused celebrity, the more mature whiner, the traitor who wanted out of L.A., and in time, the leader, the closer, the best.
His personality can be described as conceited and abrasive at worst, intense and business-like at best, but what Bryant really is, nah, what he has always been, is a winner. During the early years, the Shaq years, Bryant won and won often, but wasn’t yet mature enough to appreciate all of his success for what it was. Rather, Bryant thought that he needed his success to be on his terms. After five years of losing, however, Bryant decided a different strategy was in order.
In 2007-2008, after five years of catching fish for his teammates, Bryant decided it was time to teach them how to fish for themselves. Like a proud parent, Bryant sat back, surveyed, and saw his teammates grow in front of his eyes. Andrew Bynum, once the source of Bryant’s disdain, became his pet project, and his trade requests became requests for reinforcements.
In February of 2008, Bryant’s prayers were answered, as the Lakers were able to acquire Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies. Gasol, a former Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star, provided the interior presence that Bryant needed, but didn’t require the spotlight that Bryant had worked so hard to monopolize. In the ’08 playoffs, the two thrived, leading the Lakers all the way back to the Finals for the first time since the Kobe-and-Shaq Lakers lost to Detroit in 2004.
However, with Bynum out injured and facing a hungry and talented Boston Celtics squad, L.A. came up just short. With a renewed sense of passion and faith in the team that had been built around him, Bryant worked tirelessly to ensure the failures of ’04 and ’08 wouldn’t be repeated.
This season, Gasol’s first full year as Bryant’s wingman, the two really clicked. Gasol’s ability to see the floor and pass out of double teams made him tough to double, but his polished post game and scoring proficiency demanded it nonetheless.
In the Finals, Bryant and Gasol repeatedly ran a two-man game, where Bryant isolated his man on the perimeter, Gasol flashed to the low post on the same side, and then the two took what the defense gave them. Bryant would dump the ball down to Gasol, knowing that his man couldn’t help with a double team. If the double team came from the far side, Gasol would hit the open man. If he was singled, he took to the rim or drew contact. If, heaven forbid, Bryant’s man cheated down onto Gasol, Kobe would make it rain.
The system, masterminded by the perpetually underrated Phil Jackson, worked to perfection against Orlando, making Dwight Howard look more like a 23-year-old project than a perennial All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year. The title, Jackson’s tenth, breaks a tie with long-time Celtic’s coach Red Auerbach, and sends Jackson into a stratosphere all his own.
Moving forward, questions exist about the future of both Bryant and Jackson. Bryant has an early termination option in his contract that allows him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. He will obviously garner maximum money regardless of his destination, but with all of his success in Hollywood, it would be a shock to see ‘The Mamba’ depart for greener pastures.
Jackson, on the other hand, could be a very different story. With 10 titles already in the books, the 63-year old Jackson has very little left to accomplish. Not that Jackson will look to move to another team, but riding off into the sunset with yet another championship doesn’t seem like too much of a stretch. After all, the man’s out of fingers…
Surpassing Tim Duncan’s San Antonio Spurs for the most championships won in the decade is a great accomplishment, and one surely not lost on Kobe, but what really distinguishes this title run for the NBA’s most dominating talent is one giant, glaring absence.
Of course, I’m referring to ‘The Diesel’, Shaquille O’Neal. Alongside O’Neal, Bryant took his first four trips to the Finals, and won his first three championship rings. Like a shark getting his first taste of blood, the success Bryant achieved with O’Neal fueled his greatness, but it also illuminated his greatest flaw.
Bryant’s supreme confidence has been vital to his basketball success at every level. Announcing his jump straight from high school to the NBA, Bryant stood behind a podium, grinning from ear-to-ear, as if he knew something the rest of us didn’t, as if his crystal ball had shown him all of this- the championships, the droves of fans, the money, and most importantly of all, the legacy.
In the six seasons that separated Bryant’s third and fourth championships, he wore many hats- the next MJ, the immature whiner, the villain who forced Shaq and Phil Jackson out of town, the villain who allegedly raped a young woman in Colorado, the wrongly accused celebrity, the more mature whiner, the traitor who wanted out of L.A., and in time, the leader, the closer, the best.
His personality can be described as conceited and abrasive at worst, intense and business-like at best, but what Bryant really is, nah, what he has always been, is a winner. During the early years, the Shaq years, Bryant won and won often, but wasn’t yet mature enough to appreciate all of his success for what it was. Rather, Bryant thought that he needed his success to be on his terms. After five years of losing, however, Bryant decided a different strategy was in order.
In 2007-2008, after five years of catching fish for his teammates, Bryant decided it was time to teach them how to fish for themselves. Like a proud parent, Bryant sat back, surveyed, and saw his teammates grow in front of his eyes. Andrew Bynum, once the source of Bryant’s disdain, became his pet project, and his trade requests became requests for reinforcements.
In February of 2008, Bryant’s prayers were answered, as the Lakers were able to acquire Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies. Gasol, a former Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star, provided the interior presence that Bryant needed, but didn’t require the spotlight that Bryant had worked so hard to monopolize. In the ’08 playoffs, the two thrived, leading the Lakers all the way back to the Finals for the first time since the Kobe-and-Shaq Lakers lost to Detroit in 2004.
However, with Bynum out injured and facing a hungry and talented Boston Celtics squad, L.A. came up just short. With a renewed sense of passion and faith in the team that had been built around him, Bryant worked tirelessly to ensure the failures of ’04 and ’08 wouldn’t be repeated.
This season, Gasol’s first full year as Bryant’s wingman, the two really clicked. Gasol’s ability to see the floor and pass out of double teams made him tough to double, but his polished post game and scoring proficiency demanded it nonetheless.
In the Finals, Bryant and Gasol repeatedly ran a two-man game, where Bryant isolated his man on the perimeter, Gasol flashed to the low post on the same side, and then the two took what the defense gave them. Bryant would dump the ball down to Gasol, knowing that his man couldn’t help with a double team. If the double team came from the far side, Gasol would hit the open man. If he was singled, he took to the rim or drew contact. If, heaven forbid, Bryant’s man cheated down onto Gasol, Kobe would make it rain.
The system, masterminded by the perpetually underrated Phil Jackson, worked to perfection against Orlando, making Dwight Howard look more like a 23-year-old project than a perennial All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year. The title, Jackson’s tenth, breaks a tie with long-time Celtic’s coach Red Auerbach, and sends Jackson into a stratosphere all his own.
Moving forward, questions exist about the future of both Bryant and Jackson. Bryant has an early termination option in his contract that allows him to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. He will obviously garner maximum money regardless of his destination, but with all of his success in Hollywood, it would be a shock to see ‘The Mamba’ depart for greener pastures.
Jackson, on the other hand, could be a very different story. With 10 titles already in the books, the 63-year old Jackson has very little left to accomplish. Not that Jackson will look to move to another team, but riding off into the sunset with yet another championship doesn’t seem like too much of a stretch. After all, the man’s out of fingers…
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Point Guard Rankings (Top 10)
1) Ricky Rubio- Rubio is the prototypical NBA point guard. He has all the physical tools- size, athleticism, flash, and unequaled court vision. If his mental maturity can mimic his physical maturity, he’ll be very productive in the League very soon. Rubio does have a history of injuries, which is probably the biggest concern surrounding him at this point (besides the reported $8 million buyout that his Spanish League team is requesting).
NBA Comparison: Jason Kidd
2) Stephen Curry- Curry is an absolute beast with the ball in his hands. He can shoot from anywhere on the floor and should have no problem adapting to the NBA 3-point distance. He also showed the ability to create for his teammates last season. The thing that distinguishes Curry, however, is his competitive fire. This kid is a leader and a real winner, and he’ll have a positive impact on everyone who plays alongside him.
NBA Comparison: Derek Fisher
3) Jonny Flynn- Flynn’s stock has been rising since he officially declared for the draft, and his strong showing at the pre-draft camp only added to his prospects. Flynn will almost certainly be a top-10 pick, with Indiana at 13 a possibility as well. (The Pacers are reportedly very high on Flynn, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them try to move up to get him.) Flynn’s comfort with the ball and speed in the open floor are his major selling points. I see Flynn as the closest thing to Russell Westbrook in this class, and someone in the top 5-to-8 could take a flyer on Flynn, just as OKC did with Westbrook last year.
NBA Comparison: Jameer Nelson
4) Brandon Jennings- Jennings’ stock has cooled recently because of his disappointing season in Italy and his absence from both the pre-draft camp and the Reebok Eurocamp. Questions also remain about Jennings’ character after his standardized test scores were invalidated, forcing him to play overseas. Jennings’ talent and athletic ability are givens, but a successful NBA career requires more than pure physical gifts. Jennings could excel in the right situation, but would struggle without experienced veteran leadership.
NBA Comparison: Rafer Alston (more athletic)
5) Jrue Holiday- Holiday is one of the enigmas of this draft class. He was very highly touted entering the season, but struggled to adapt to the college game. He has good size at 6’4” and a ton of upside, but very serious question still remain about his ability to run the point. Like Flynn, Holiday has some Russell Westbrook in him in terms of athleticism, but Holiday is light-years farther away from becoming a productive NBA player.
NBA Comparison: Rajon Rondo
6) Eric Maynor- Maynor shares a lot of traits with Curry. Maynor is also 6’3” and perceived as being “undersized” for the League. He is also a deadly shooter and a proven winner. As a four-year starter at point guard at VCU, Maynor has fewer questions about his ability to lead a team, but has a less explosive offensive arsenal. He’ll become a steady NBA player, but never a star, and would benefit from a team with athletic, defensive-minded wing players.
NBA Comparison: Randy Foye
7) Jeff Teague- Teague has good size and is still pretty raw, and his stock is rising because of the versatility of his game. However, he was very inconsistent last year and really struggled down the stretch. I have a lot of concerns about his mental toughness, a lot like Jennings, but come draft night, he should hear his name called in the top-20, with Milwaukee at #10 a real possibility.
NBA Comparison: Anthony Carter
8) Ty Lawson- Lawson is lightning-quick and makes good decisions, but he’s a little undersized and will have a tough time scoring at the next level. In the right situation, Felton could be a very serviceable point guard option, but he’ll never lead a successful NBA team if they rely on him offensively.
NBA Comparison: Raymond Felton
9) Darren Collison- Collison was overshadowed at UCLA by the likes of Jordan Farmar, Russell Westbrook, and Jrue Holiday, but he was a very consistent and clutch performer throughout his career. He doesn’t excel in any one area, but shows a solid understanding of the game and good maturity. Along with Maynor, he is among the most NBA-ready point guards in this class, and will be a welcomed addition to a team in the mid-to-late 20’s, or maybe at the beginning of the second-round.
NBA Comparison: Mario Chalmers
10) Patty Mills- Mills had a fine showing in the Olympic games last summer, but in the 12 months since, Mills has gone from a sure-fire first-rounder to an also-ran. He missed the majority of the regular season at St. Mary’s with an injury and had a very poor showing at the Reebok Eurocamp. Playing against longer European competition, Mills had difficulty getting up shots, leading many to believe that he’ll struggle against bigger competition in the NBA.
NBA Comparison: DJ Augistin (less range)
NBA Comparison: Jason Kidd
2) Stephen Curry- Curry is an absolute beast with the ball in his hands. He can shoot from anywhere on the floor and should have no problem adapting to the NBA 3-point distance. He also showed the ability to create for his teammates last season. The thing that distinguishes Curry, however, is his competitive fire. This kid is a leader and a real winner, and he’ll have a positive impact on everyone who plays alongside him.
NBA Comparison: Derek Fisher
3) Jonny Flynn- Flynn’s stock has been rising since he officially declared for the draft, and his strong showing at the pre-draft camp only added to his prospects. Flynn will almost certainly be a top-10 pick, with Indiana at 13 a possibility as well. (The Pacers are reportedly very high on Flynn, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them try to move up to get him.) Flynn’s comfort with the ball and speed in the open floor are his major selling points. I see Flynn as the closest thing to Russell Westbrook in this class, and someone in the top 5-to-8 could take a flyer on Flynn, just as OKC did with Westbrook last year.
NBA Comparison: Jameer Nelson
4) Brandon Jennings- Jennings’ stock has cooled recently because of his disappointing season in Italy and his absence from both the pre-draft camp and the Reebok Eurocamp. Questions also remain about Jennings’ character after his standardized test scores were invalidated, forcing him to play overseas. Jennings’ talent and athletic ability are givens, but a successful NBA career requires more than pure physical gifts. Jennings could excel in the right situation, but would struggle without experienced veteran leadership.
NBA Comparison: Rafer Alston (more athletic)
5) Jrue Holiday- Holiday is one of the enigmas of this draft class. He was very highly touted entering the season, but struggled to adapt to the college game. He has good size at 6’4” and a ton of upside, but very serious question still remain about his ability to run the point. Like Flynn, Holiday has some Russell Westbrook in him in terms of athleticism, but Holiday is light-years farther away from becoming a productive NBA player.
NBA Comparison: Rajon Rondo
6) Eric Maynor- Maynor shares a lot of traits with Curry. Maynor is also 6’3” and perceived as being “undersized” for the League. He is also a deadly shooter and a proven winner. As a four-year starter at point guard at VCU, Maynor has fewer questions about his ability to lead a team, but has a less explosive offensive arsenal. He’ll become a steady NBA player, but never a star, and would benefit from a team with athletic, defensive-minded wing players.
NBA Comparison: Randy Foye
7) Jeff Teague- Teague has good size and is still pretty raw, and his stock is rising because of the versatility of his game. However, he was very inconsistent last year and really struggled down the stretch. I have a lot of concerns about his mental toughness, a lot like Jennings, but come draft night, he should hear his name called in the top-20, with Milwaukee at #10 a real possibility.
NBA Comparison: Anthony Carter
8) Ty Lawson- Lawson is lightning-quick and makes good decisions, but he’s a little undersized and will have a tough time scoring at the next level. In the right situation, Felton could be a very serviceable point guard option, but he’ll never lead a successful NBA team if they rely on him offensively.
NBA Comparison: Raymond Felton
9) Darren Collison- Collison was overshadowed at UCLA by the likes of Jordan Farmar, Russell Westbrook, and Jrue Holiday, but he was a very consistent and clutch performer throughout his career. He doesn’t excel in any one area, but shows a solid understanding of the game and good maturity. Along with Maynor, he is among the most NBA-ready point guards in this class, and will be a welcomed addition to a team in the mid-to-late 20’s, or maybe at the beginning of the second-round.
NBA Comparison: Mario Chalmers
10) Patty Mills- Mills had a fine showing in the Olympic games last summer, but in the 12 months since, Mills has gone from a sure-fire first-rounder to an also-ran. He missed the majority of the regular season at St. Mary’s with an injury and had a very poor showing at the Reebok Eurocamp. Playing against longer European competition, Mills had difficulty getting up shots, leading many to believe that he’ll struggle against bigger competition in the NBA.
NBA Comparison: DJ Augistin (less range)
Monday, June 8, 2009
On the Clock: Memphis Grizzlies
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES-
The Grizzlies are smack in the middle of full rebuilding mode, and contrary to the prevailing opinion from about 16 months ago, things actually seem to be moving forward pretty nicely. Three years ago, in the middle of a lottery that showcased such heavy hitters as Shelden Williams (#5), Patrick O’Bryant (#9), Mouhamed Sene (#10) and JJ Redick (#11), the Grizzlies landed Rudy Gay as a steal at #8.
In the 2007 draft, the Grizzlies took a flyer on a talented, young left-handed point guard named Mike Conley. In his two years in the NBA, the 21-year old Conley has shown little improvement. In his rookie campaign, Conley showed promise, averaging 9.4 points and 4.2 assists in 53 games, 46 of which were starts. In his sophomore season, however, Conley’s mild statistical improvements (up 1.5 points and .1 assist) were more due to a slight increase in minutes (from 26.1 to 30.6) than any breakthroughs in his game.
The following February, the Grizzlies dealt away Pau Gasol and found themselves on the wrong end of one of the most lopsided trades in recent memory. In return for the two-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, the Grizzlies received the rights to Pau’s brother Marc, as well as two future first-round picks (The first was #28 in 2008.), and a couple of throw-ins.
Things were looking pretty down for the Grizzlies. With no Gasol, the Grizzlies were left with no identity, no go-to-scorer, and no leadership. Those roles were left to the then 21-year-old Gay. Gay, who averaged 10.8 points on 42.2% shooting as a rookie, exploded in his second season, averaging over 20 points per, along with 46% shooting and over a steal and a block per game. Gay had a disappointing third season this past year, but still put up very respectable numbers on a bad team.
Memphis took on a couple of terrible contracts (Marko Jaric, Greg Buckner) last draft day, but they were able to obtain a very promising perimeter scorer in OJ Mayo. ’08-’09 was also a promising rookie season for Marc Gasol, who Memphis hopes can fill the void left by his older brother.
With a core of young players, led by Gay, Mayo, Gasol, and Conley, the Grizzlies have some pieces in place. Also, due largely to the Pau trade, the Grizzlies find themselves easily under the salary cap and in position to be a serious player in free agency this summer.
With the number two pick in the upcoming draft, Memphis has several options. Ricky Rubio is undeniably the second best player in the class behind Blake Griffin, but he doesn’t fill much of a need unless Memphis is willing to give up on Conley. The Grizzlies are also reportedly enamored with Hasheem Thabeet of Connecticut, but he doesn’t have much value at #2. The best-case scenario for Memphis would be to find a trading partner who would allow them to obtain another asset along with a top ten pick.
The three trade scenarios that make sense are with Sacramento, Minnesota, and New York. The potential deal with Sacramento would presumably net Memphis the fourth and twenty-third picks, in exchange for the rights to Rubio at #2. Dealing with Minnesota would likely entail giving up the second pick for picks number six and 18. A trade with New York, however, would be the most intriguing. Assuming New York can re-sign power forward David Lee before the draft, a sign-and-trade between Memphis and New York centering on Lee and a swap of top ten picks seems like a fantastic fit for both sides.
THE PICK: Ricky Rubio; Hasheem Thabeet; Trade Down
THE GRADE: B; C-; A
THE OUTLOOK: D- (23-59); D+ (29-53); C- (31-51)
The Grizzlies are smack in the middle of full rebuilding mode, and contrary to the prevailing opinion from about 16 months ago, things actually seem to be moving forward pretty nicely. Three years ago, in the middle of a lottery that showcased such heavy hitters as Shelden Williams (#5), Patrick O’Bryant (#9), Mouhamed Sene (#10) and JJ Redick (#11), the Grizzlies landed Rudy Gay as a steal at #8.
In the 2007 draft, the Grizzlies took a flyer on a talented, young left-handed point guard named Mike Conley. In his two years in the NBA, the 21-year old Conley has shown little improvement. In his rookie campaign, Conley showed promise, averaging 9.4 points and 4.2 assists in 53 games, 46 of which were starts. In his sophomore season, however, Conley’s mild statistical improvements (up 1.5 points and .1 assist) were more due to a slight increase in minutes (from 26.1 to 30.6) than any breakthroughs in his game.
The following February, the Grizzlies dealt away Pau Gasol and found themselves on the wrong end of one of the most lopsided trades in recent memory. In return for the two-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, the Grizzlies received the rights to Pau’s brother Marc, as well as two future first-round picks (The first was #28 in 2008.), and a couple of throw-ins.
Things were looking pretty down for the Grizzlies. With no Gasol, the Grizzlies were left with no identity, no go-to-scorer, and no leadership. Those roles were left to the then 21-year-old Gay. Gay, who averaged 10.8 points on 42.2% shooting as a rookie, exploded in his second season, averaging over 20 points per, along with 46% shooting and over a steal and a block per game. Gay had a disappointing third season this past year, but still put up very respectable numbers on a bad team.
Memphis took on a couple of terrible contracts (Marko Jaric, Greg Buckner) last draft day, but they were able to obtain a very promising perimeter scorer in OJ Mayo. ’08-’09 was also a promising rookie season for Marc Gasol, who Memphis hopes can fill the void left by his older brother.
With a core of young players, led by Gay, Mayo, Gasol, and Conley, the Grizzlies have some pieces in place. Also, due largely to the Pau trade, the Grizzlies find themselves easily under the salary cap and in position to be a serious player in free agency this summer.
With the number two pick in the upcoming draft, Memphis has several options. Ricky Rubio is undeniably the second best player in the class behind Blake Griffin, but he doesn’t fill much of a need unless Memphis is willing to give up on Conley. The Grizzlies are also reportedly enamored with Hasheem Thabeet of Connecticut, but he doesn’t have much value at #2. The best-case scenario for Memphis would be to find a trading partner who would allow them to obtain another asset along with a top ten pick.
The three trade scenarios that make sense are with Sacramento, Minnesota, and New York. The potential deal with Sacramento would presumably net Memphis the fourth and twenty-third picks, in exchange for the rights to Rubio at #2. Dealing with Minnesota would likely entail giving up the second pick for picks number six and 18. A trade with New York, however, would be the most intriguing. Assuming New York can re-sign power forward David Lee before the draft, a sign-and-trade between Memphis and New York centering on Lee and a swap of top ten picks seems like a fantastic fit for both sides.
THE PICK: Ricky Rubio; Hasheem Thabeet; Trade Down
THE GRADE: B; C-; A
THE OUTLOOK: D- (23-59); D+ (29-53); C- (31-51)
2009 NBA Mock Draft v4.0 (Round 1)
** NEW TRADE SCENARIO: The Memphis Grizzlies trade the rights to the second pick in the 2009 NBA Draft to the New York Knicks for PF David Lee and the rights to the eighth pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. **
When the ping pong balls sealed the fates of the 14 teams in the NBA’s draft lottery, the trade that seemed the most like a no-brainer was Memphis swapping picks with Sacramento at numbers two and four, respectively. As time has passed, however, a new deal has developed, which I think makes that one seem far fetched: the New York Knicks, who own the rights to the #8 pick, moving up to Memphis’ pick at #2.
Here’s the scenario: The Knicks are looking to make a splash, especially after LeBron James stated recently that he’s never given any indication that he’s looking to make a move to the Big Apple. Already armed with a top ten pick, the Knicks will spend the next couple of weeks working out a deal with physical power forward David Lee. Come draft day, the Knicks deal Lee and their number eight selection to Memphis for the number two pick.
The deal works for Memphis because they maximize their assets. They would love to land a physical, defensive paint presence with their pick, (Many recent mock drafts have Memphis passing on Ricky Rubio and selecting Hasheem Thabeet at number two.) but too many teams value Rubio for Memphis to pass on him. The best case for Memphis is either to move down and stockpile picks and use at least one on a big man, or trade down and get a veteran big man in the deal. Sacramento could offer the first deal, but New York can offer the second.
Dealing with Sacramento means Memphis would likely land Jordan Hill or Thabeet at number four and a hit-or-miss point guard or small forward at #23. (Assuming the deal would be #2 for #4 and #23, or something similar.) Dealing with New York, on the other hand, would land Memphis a proven rebounder in Lee, along with (likely) an elite combo or off-guard type with the eighth pick. This seems like hands down the better option for Memphis.
The deal also works for the Knicks, because of the “wow” factor. Rubio is one of the top two or three prospects in the draft, but may have the best upside. He is also the “sexiest” pick in the draft, which has to play a role to a team playing in the biggest market in the NBA. Also, the Knicks have their fans (who attend the draft in droves), and the NBA’s biggest star to consider. James and Rubio would provide more court awareness than any other duo in the NBA.
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) NYK- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
5) WAS- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) MEM- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
9) TOR- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
10) MIL- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
11) NJN- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
12) CHA- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
13) IND- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
14) PHO- Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
22) DAL- Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
23) SAC- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Oklahoma City trades the 25th pick of the 2009 NBA Draft to San Antonio for a future first-round pick and cash considerations.
25) SAS- Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
26) CHI- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
30) CLE- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
When the ping pong balls sealed the fates of the 14 teams in the NBA’s draft lottery, the trade that seemed the most like a no-brainer was Memphis swapping picks with Sacramento at numbers two and four, respectively. As time has passed, however, a new deal has developed, which I think makes that one seem far fetched: the New York Knicks, who own the rights to the #8 pick, moving up to Memphis’ pick at #2.
Here’s the scenario: The Knicks are looking to make a splash, especially after LeBron James stated recently that he’s never given any indication that he’s looking to make a move to the Big Apple. Already armed with a top ten pick, the Knicks will spend the next couple of weeks working out a deal with physical power forward David Lee. Come draft day, the Knicks deal Lee and their number eight selection to Memphis for the number two pick.
The deal works for Memphis because they maximize their assets. They would love to land a physical, defensive paint presence with their pick, (Many recent mock drafts have Memphis passing on Ricky Rubio and selecting Hasheem Thabeet at number two.) but too many teams value Rubio for Memphis to pass on him. The best case for Memphis is either to move down and stockpile picks and use at least one on a big man, or trade down and get a veteran big man in the deal. Sacramento could offer the first deal, but New York can offer the second.
Dealing with Sacramento means Memphis would likely land Jordan Hill or Thabeet at number four and a hit-or-miss point guard or small forward at #23. (Assuming the deal would be #2 for #4 and #23, or something similar.) Dealing with New York, on the other hand, would land Memphis a proven rebounder in Lee, along with (likely) an elite combo or off-guard type with the eighth pick. This seems like hands down the better option for Memphis.
The deal also works for the Knicks, because of the “wow” factor. Rubio is one of the top two or three prospects in the draft, but may have the best upside. He is also the “sexiest” pick in the draft, which has to play a role to a team playing in the biggest market in the NBA. Also, the Knicks have their fans (who attend the draft in droves), and the NBA’s biggest star to consider. James and Rubio would provide more court awareness than any other duo in the NBA.
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) NYK- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) SAC- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
5) WAS- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
8) MEM- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
9) TOR- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
10) MIL- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
11) NJN- James Johnson- PF (Wake Forest)
12) CHA- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
13) IND- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
14) PHO- Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
15) DET- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
16) CHI- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
21) NOH- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
22) DAL- Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
23) SAC- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
Oklahoma City trades the 25th pick of the 2009 NBA Draft to San Antonio for a future first-round pick and cash considerations.
25) SAS- Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
26) CHI- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
27) MEM- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
30) CLE- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
Friday, June 5, 2009
2009 NBA Mock Draft v3.0 (Round 1)
1) LAC- Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
The Clippers have an easy choice at #1, as they’ve been clear since they won the lottery that Griffin is their guy.
2) MEM- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain) (Rights traded to SAC)
*As draft day approaches, it becomes clear that Ricky Rubio is too valuable not to be the pick at #2. Therefore, Memphis takes Rubio and waits to see what OKC does. If they take Thabeet, Memphis will look to trade Rubio’s rights for an veteran big man. If OKC takes Harden, Memphis trades Rubio’s rights to Sacramento for the fourth and twenty-third picks.*
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
OKC gets to choose between Harden and Thabeet, each of who would be a great fit. However, OKC chooses offense over defense and takes Harden.
4) MEM (from SAC)- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
Memphis moves down to 4 to get the guy they really wanted- Thabeet. They also manage to get another first-rounder out of the deal.
5) WAS- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
Jordan Hill is hands-down the best player available at #5, but the Wizards have a stable of long, athletic power forward types (Antawn Jamison, Andrey Blatche, Javale McGee), so I have a hard time believing they’ll pull the trigger on Hill. Instead, they’ll probably take a bit of a reach on a guard with upside- either Jennings or Tyreke Evans.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Curry had a strong showing at the pre-draft combine, and his stock seems to be rising. He would be a good fit alongside Randy Foye in Minnesota’s backcourt.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
Golden State lands Hill at #7, which might be the steal of the top 10. Hill is a great fit for the Warriors because they could use some size and Hill can rebound effectively and run the floor.
8) NYK- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
The Knicks miss out on Curry at #8 and are left with the choice of Evans and DeMar DeRozan. They take the more versatile player in Evans, who can play either the point or the off-guard.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
Toronto takes DeRozan at #9, which is a great fit. Toronto has shooters on the wings, but could really use an athletic slasher with the potential to become the franchise player if Chris Bosh leaves next summer. In DeRozan, the Raptors will hope to find the next Vince Carter, who had a pretty stellar run north of the border himself.
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
Milwaukee will look at either a point guard or a power forward, and after taking Joe Alexander and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute last season, it should be time to find a leader in the backcourt.
11) NJN- James Johnson- SF/PF (Wake Forest)
New Jersey has some nice pieces to build around, and a big strong body like Johnson on the boards would be a great addition.
12) CHA- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
I had some trouble filling this spot, and if the draft were to fall this way, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Charlotte look to move this pick. As it is, Charlotte could use an upgrade in the frontcourt, and Blair is by far the best true big man available.
13) IND- Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
The other remaining lottery-worthy forward is Earl Clark. Indiana would love to land a point guard with this pick, but with Washington reaching for Jennings and Milwaukee consequently taking Flynn, the Pacers are left to take Clark, the best player available.
14) PHO- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
Ellington slips into the lottery at #14 to the Suns, who will be looking for a replacement for the aging Grant Hill. Point guard is a strong possibility here as well, but the value just doesn’t seem to be there unless they go after Jrue Holiday. Ellington would be a better fit, as I see him developing into a very similar player to Grant Hill (the healthy version).
15) DET- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
16) CHI- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
21) NOH- Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
22) DAL- Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
23) MEM (from SAC)- Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
25) OKC- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
26) CHI- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
27) MEM- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
30) CLE- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
The Clippers have an easy choice at #1, as they’ve been clear since they won the lottery that Griffin is their guy.
2) MEM- Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain) (Rights traded to SAC)
*As draft day approaches, it becomes clear that Ricky Rubio is too valuable not to be the pick at #2. Therefore, Memphis takes Rubio and waits to see what OKC does. If they take Thabeet, Memphis will look to trade Rubio’s rights for an veteran big man. If OKC takes Harden, Memphis trades Rubio’s rights to Sacramento for the fourth and twenty-third picks.*
3) OKC- James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
OKC gets to choose between Harden and Thabeet, each of who would be a great fit. However, OKC chooses offense over defense and takes Harden.
4) MEM (from SAC)- Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
Memphis moves down to 4 to get the guy they really wanted- Thabeet. They also manage to get another first-rounder out of the deal.
5) WAS- Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
Jordan Hill is hands-down the best player available at #5, but the Wizards have a stable of long, athletic power forward types (Antawn Jamison, Andrey Blatche, Javale McGee), so I have a hard time believing they’ll pull the trigger on Hill. Instead, they’ll probably take a bit of a reach on a guard with upside- either Jennings or Tyreke Evans.
6) MIN- Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
Curry had a strong showing at the pre-draft combine, and his stock seems to be rising. He would be a good fit alongside Randy Foye in Minnesota’s backcourt.
7) GSW- Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
Golden State lands Hill at #7, which might be the steal of the top 10. Hill is a great fit for the Warriors because they could use some size and Hill can rebound effectively and run the floor.
8) NYK- Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
The Knicks miss out on Curry at #8 and are left with the choice of Evans and DeMar DeRozan. They take the more versatile player in Evans, who can play either the point or the off-guard.
9) TOR- DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
Toronto takes DeRozan at #9, which is a great fit. Toronto has shooters on the wings, but could really use an athletic slasher with the potential to become the franchise player if Chris Bosh leaves next summer. In DeRozan, the Raptors will hope to find the next Vince Carter, who had a pretty stellar run north of the border himself.
10) MIL- Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
Milwaukee will look at either a point guard or a power forward, and after taking Joe Alexander and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute last season, it should be time to find a leader in the backcourt.
11) NJN- James Johnson- SF/PF (Wake Forest)
New Jersey has some nice pieces to build around, and a big strong body like Johnson on the boards would be a great addition.
12) CHA- DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
I had some trouble filling this spot, and if the draft were to fall this way, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Charlotte look to move this pick. As it is, Charlotte could use an upgrade in the frontcourt, and Blair is by far the best true big man available.
13) IND- Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
The other remaining lottery-worthy forward is Earl Clark. Indiana would love to land a point guard with this pick, but with Washington reaching for Jennings and Milwaukee consequently taking Flynn, the Pacers are left to take Clark, the best player available.
14) PHO- Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
Ellington slips into the lottery at #14 to the Suns, who will be looking for a replacement for the aging Grant Hill. Point guard is a strong possibility here as well, but the value just doesn’t seem to be there unless they go after Jrue Holiday. Ellington would be a better fit, as I see him developing into a very similar player to Grant Hill (the healthy version).
15) DET- Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
16) CHI- Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
17) PHI- Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) MIN- Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) ATL- Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) UTA- Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
21) NOH- Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
22) DAL- Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
23) MEM (from SAC)- Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)
24) POR- Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
25) OKC- BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
26) CHI- Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
27) MEM- Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
28) MIN- Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
29) LAL- Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
30) CLE- Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Post-Combine Player Rankings (Top 40)
1) Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) James Harden- SG (Arizona State) /\
3) Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain) \/
4) Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
5) Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
6) Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
8) Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse) /\
9) Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
10) DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal) /\
11) Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy) \/
12) James Johnson- SF (Wake Forest)
13) Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina) /\
14) DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
15) Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA) \/
16) Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke) \/
17) Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville) /\
18) Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth) \/
19) Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina) /\
20) BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State) /\
21) Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest) \/
22) Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida) /\ /\
23) Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona) \/
24) Darren Collison- PG (UCLA) /\
25) Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s) \/
26) Omri Casspi- SF (Israel) \/
27) Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier) /\
28) Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State) \/
29) Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina) /\
30) Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh) \/
31) Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech) \/
32) Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal) /\
33) DaJuan Summers- SF (Gerogetown) \/
34) Damion James- SF (Texas) \/
35) Danny Green- SG (North Carolina) /\
36) Toney Douglas- PG (Florida State) /\
37) Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga) \/ \/
38) Tyler Smith- SF (Tennessee) /\
39) Victor Claver- SF (Spain) \/
40) Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky) \/
2) James Harden- SG (Arizona State) /\
3) Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain) \/
4) Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
5) Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
6) Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
8) Jonny Flynn- PG (Syracuse) /\
9) Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
10) DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal) /\
11) Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy) \/
12) James Johnson- SF (Wake Forest)
13) Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina) /\
14) DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
15) Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA) \/
16) Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke) \/
17) Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville) /\
18) Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth) \/
19) Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina) /\
20) BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State) /\
21) Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest) \/
22) Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida) /\ /\
23) Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona) \/
24) Darren Collison- PG (UCLA) /\
25) Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s) \/
26) Omri Casspi- SF (Israel) \/
27) Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier) /\
28) Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State) \/
29) Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina) /\
30) Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh) \/
31) Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech) \/
32) Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal) /\
33) DaJuan Summers- SF (Gerogetown) \/
34) Damion James- SF (Texas) \/
35) Danny Green- SG (North Carolina) /\
36) Toney Douglas- PG (Florida State) /\
37) Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga) \/ \/
38) Tyler Smith- SF (Tennessee) /\
39) Victor Claver- SF (Spain) \/
40) Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky) \/
NBA Pre-Draft Combine Winners & Losers
Big Winners: Combine Measurements
Blake Griffin- 6’10” in shoes
Tyreke Evans- 8’8” standing reach
DeJuan Blair- 7’2” wingspan
Taj Gibson- 7’4” wingspan
Tyler Hansbrough- 8’10” standing reach
Big Losers: Combine Measurements
Stephen Curry- 6’3.5” wingspan
Ty Lawson- 6’ ¾” wingspan
Jodie Meeks- 6’4.5” wingspan
AJ Price- 12.4% body fat %
Big Winners: Combine Drills
Derrick Brown- 20 reps
Darren Collison- 10.45-second Lane drill
Stephen Curry- 10 reps
Wayne Ellington- 38” vertical leap
Jonny Flynn- 40” vertical leap
Big Losers: Combine Drills
Austin Daye- 0 reps
Gerald Henderson- 8 reps
Jordan Hill- 12.23-second Lane drill
Omri Casspi- 2 reps, 32.5” vertical leap
Blake Griffin- 6’10” in shoes
Tyreke Evans- 8’8” standing reach
DeJuan Blair- 7’2” wingspan
Taj Gibson- 7’4” wingspan
Tyler Hansbrough- 8’10” standing reach
Big Losers: Combine Measurements
Stephen Curry- 6’3.5” wingspan
Ty Lawson- 6’ ¾” wingspan
Jodie Meeks- 6’4.5” wingspan
AJ Price- 12.4% body fat %
Big Winners: Combine Drills
Derrick Brown- 20 reps
Darren Collison- 10.45-second Lane drill
Stephen Curry- 10 reps
Wayne Ellington- 38” vertical leap
Jonny Flynn- 40” vertical leap
Big Losers: Combine Drills
Austin Daye- 0 reps
Gerald Henderson- 8 reps
Jordan Hill- 12.23-second Lane drill
Omri Casspi- 2 reps, 32.5” vertical leap
Combine Workout Results
DeJuan Blair- Blair had a fairly mundane performance. 18 reps are respectable, but not great for a player who bases his game on his strength and physicality. Speed was a little better than anticipated, but he didn’t show much leaping ability.
Derrick Brown- Brown put up a fantastic showing; he may have been the best overall athlete at the combine. He jumped over 35 inches (over 30 flat-footed), lifted 185 pounds 20 times, and put up very impressive speed and agility numbers as well.
Omri Casspi- Casspi is the second-best international prospect in this draft class, after Ricky Rubio (I don’t consider Brandon Jennings an international prospect.), and I was glad to see that he worked out at the combine. Unfortunately for Casspi, he didn’t wow in any particular area. He only managed a 32.5-inch vertical and 2 reps at 185-pounds, while recording respectable, but unremarkable times in speed and agility.
Chase Buddinger- Buddinger was solid, performing pretty much as expected. He showed good lateral quickness, but not blazing speed from A to B. He also displayed the athleticism that makes him a potential lottery pick, but only put up 10 reps, which may drop him into the mid teens.
Earl Clark- Clark’s huge wingspan combined with solid athleticism will guarantee him a spot in the lottery. His max vertical put him at nearly 12 feet, which puts him in Mr. (Dwight) Howard’s neighborhood. His speed and agility numbers were solid, impressive actually for a forward like Clark. He did only put up 5 reps at 185, which is definitely disturbing, but overall, it was a solid performance for Clark.
Darren Collison- Collison should have assured himself a spot in the first round with his performance at the combine. Collison displayed impressive athleticism, leaping over 33 inches (over 30 flat-footed). He also put up one of the quickest Lane Agility times and a very respectable 3.1-second ¾ court sprint.
Stephen Curry- Curry displayed solid numbers across the board at the combine, but the most important aspect of his workout was the 185-pound bench press. Questions about Curry’s lack of size and strength have been the major critique about his game. However, Curry put up 10 reps, which is more than Earl Clark, DeMar DeRozan, Tyreke Evans, Gerald Henderson, Jrue Holiday, Eric Maynor, Patty Mills, and Terrence Williams.
Austin Daye- There is no question that Daye has lottery potential, but many scouts believe he still needs some seasoning before he’s ready for the NBA grind. Unfortunately for Daye, his workout at the combine only worked to confirm these fears. Daye put up a decent vertical jump, but struggled with the agility and speed drills and couldn’t lift the 185-pound bench press at all. The real question is why did he even attempt the bench press drill? At this point, I’d be shocked if Daye stays in the draft.
DeMar DeRozan- DeRozan is without question the most explosive athlete in the draft. He put up a 38.5-inch vertical and showed decent speed and agility, but was only able to lift 185 pounds 5 times, which was a little disappointing.
Wayne Ellington- Ellington had a very solid performance across the board at the combine. He put up a surprising 38-inch vertical, lifted 185 pounds 13 times, and showed speed and agility comparable to many of the point guards in this class. With his performance, Ellington may well have lifted himself into the lottery.
Tyreke Evans- Evans measured out very nicely at the combine, but his athleticism test results were fairly unimpressive. He ran a respectable ¾ court sprint and recorded a 34-inch vertical, but only lifted 185 pounds seven times and struggled in the Lane Agility drill.
Jonny Flynn- Flynn showed great athleticism at the combine. He leaped a full 40-inches (33-inches flat-footed) and recorded a sub-11-second Lane Agility drill. With his performance, Flynn secured his place in the lottery and may have moved solidly into the top 10.
Blake Griffin- Griffin secured his place at #1 when he measured out to a full 6’10” in shoes, but he added an exclamation point during the athletic drills. He put up a huge 22 reps in the bench press and leaped over 35-inches (32-inches flat-footed). Griffin also ran near the Lane Agility and ¾ court sprint in nearly identical times to Jonny Flynn.
James Harden- Harden showed good speed and leaping ability, but really impressed with his bench press total of 17 reps. There’s no question Harden will be able to score at the next level, but he displayed the strength that will also make him a shut down defender in the NBA.
Gerald Henderson- Henderson failed to show the athleticism that makes him a potential lottery pick. He only leaped 35 inches, ran an 11.17-second Lane Agility drill and only managed 8 reps at 185 pounds. Henderson’s emergence during the season will keep him in the top 20, but I would be surprised to see him land in the top 12.
Jordan Hill- Hill showed solid numbers across the board, but was sluggish at best in the Agility drill, putting up a quicksand-slow 12.23 seconds. This is especially surprising because Hill’s agility and ability to run the floor are among his best assets.
Jrue Holiday- Holiday didn’t display great leaping ability or strength, but showed good speed and great agility. He clearly still has some work to do, but has tons of potential. Holiday is without question the hardest player to place in a mock (I’ve seen him go anywhere between #4 to Sacramento and #24 to Portland.) and his fate will probably depend on his individual workouts.
Brandon Jennings- Jennings did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
James Johnson- Johnson showed surprising athleticism (35-inch vertical) in addition to his expected strong showing in the bench press (18 reps). His speed and agility were also fairly respectable. In a guard-heavy class, Johnson should expect to land in the late lottery or just outside (#16 to Chicago in the worst case).
Ty Lawson- Lawson performed well at the combine, displaying the quickness that will undoubtedly be an asset at the next level. He ran a 3.12-second ¾ court sprint and managed a sub-11-second Lane Agility drill. He also impressed with a 36.5-inch vertical leap and 14 reps at 185-pounds.
Eric Maynor- Maynor’s jump shot is what separates him from the likes of Lawson, Mills and Teague, but he showed good quickness at the combine as well. His ¾ court sprint was slightly slower than Lawson’s, but his agility drill was better by two tenths of a second. Maynor only jumped 31.5-inches and managed 8 reps on the bench press, but his strength and athleticism have never been his strongest areas.
Patty Mills- Mills’ workout was steady but unspectacular. He put up a 33-inch vertical, which is admirable for a player of his size, and 8 reps on the bench press to tie Eric Maynor. He landed between Lawson and Maynor on the agility drill, while posting the quickest ¾ court sprint of the group at 3.10-seconds.
BJ Mullens- Mullens showed good leaping ability and had a respectable showing in the speed and agility drills, but only managed 10 reps on the 185-pound bench press. This is extremely disappointing for a player with such a big body. Mullens clearly needs some seasoning before he’s ready to contribute to an NBA roster, and will find it hard to crack the top 20 after his performance.
Ricky Rubio- Rubio did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
Jermaine Taylor- Taylor is one of the sleepers of the late first round in my opinion and I think he could have a Courtney Lee-like impact on a playoff team next year. He was impressive with a 37.5-inch vertical leap (34-inches flat-footed) and 16 reps at 185-pounds, but was sluggish in the speed and agility drills.
Jeff Teague- Teague has a lot of competition at his skill level and position from Lawson, Maynor and Mills, and therefore needed a good performance at the combine. He had a strong showing across the board, with a 36.5-inch vertical, 13 reps at 185-pounds, an 11.05-second agility drill, and a 3.18-second sprint. He didn’t display the quickness of a Mills or a Lawson, but Teague showed the strength and athleticism that will make him a much better NBA defender than the other three.
Hasheem Thabeet- Thabeet did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
Marcus Thornton- Thornton had a steady but unspectacular workout. He recorded a 33-inch vertical jump, 14 reps and a 3.28-second ¾ court sprint. He did post a very impressive 10.73-second Lane Agility drill, which surpassed many of the point guards in the class.
Terrence Williams- Williams’ game is based on his athleticism, and it was once again on display at the combine, as he posted a 37-inch vertical jump. Williams only managed 9 reps at 185-pounds, but did record solid speed and agility times.
Derrick Brown- Brown put up a fantastic showing; he may have been the best overall athlete at the combine. He jumped over 35 inches (over 30 flat-footed), lifted 185 pounds 20 times, and put up very impressive speed and agility numbers as well.
Omri Casspi- Casspi is the second-best international prospect in this draft class, after Ricky Rubio (I don’t consider Brandon Jennings an international prospect.), and I was glad to see that he worked out at the combine. Unfortunately for Casspi, he didn’t wow in any particular area. He only managed a 32.5-inch vertical and 2 reps at 185-pounds, while recording respectable, but unremarkable times in speed and agility.
Chase Buddinger- Buddinger was solid, performing pretty much as expected. He showed good lateral quickness, but not blazing speed from A to B. He also displayed the athleticism that makes him a potential lottery pick, but only put up 10 reps, which may drop him into the mid teens.
Earl Clark- Clark’s huge wingspan combined with solid athleticism will guarantee him a spot in the lottery. His max vertical put him at nearly 12 feet, which puts him in Mr. (Dwight) Howard’s neighborhood. His speed and agility numbers were solid, impressive actually for a forward like Clark. He did only put up 5 reps at 185, which is definitely disturbing, but overall, it was a solid performance for Clark.
Darren Collison- Collison should have assured himself a spot in the first round with his performance at the combine. Collison displayed impressive athleticism, leaping over 33 inches (over 30 flat-footed). He also put up one of the quickest Lane Agility times and a very respectable 3.1-second ¾ court sprint.
Stephen Curry- Curry displayed solid numbers across the board at the combine, but the most important aspect of his workout was the 185-pound bench press. Questions about Curry’s lack of size and strength have been the major critique about his game. However, Curry put up 10 reps, which is more than Earl Clark, DeMar DeRozan, Tyreke Evans, Gerald Henderson, Jrue Holiday, Eric Maynor, Patty Mills, and Terrence Williams.
Austin Daye- There is no question that Daye has lottery potential, but many scouts believe he still needs some seasoning before he’s ready for the NBA grind. Unfortunately for Daye, his workout at the combine only worked to confirm these fears. Daye put up a decent vertical jump, but struggled with the agility and speed drills and couldn’t lift the 185-pound bench press at all. The real question is why did he even attempt the bench press drill? At this point, I’d be shocked if Daye stays in the draft.
DeMar DeRozan- DeRozan is without question the most explosive athlete in the draft. He put up a 38.5-inch vertical and showed decent speed and agility, but was only able to lift 185 pounds 5 times, which was a little disappointing.
Wayne Ellington- Ellington had a very solid performance across the board at the combine. He put up a surprising 38-inch vertical, lifted 185 pounds 13 times, and showed speed and agility comparable to many of the point guards in this class. With his performance, Ellington may well have lifted himself into the lottery.
Tyreke Evans- Evans measured out very nicely at the combine, but his athleticism test results were fairly unimpressive. He ran a respectable ¾ court sprint and recorded a 34-inch vertical, but only lifted 185 pounds seven times and struggled in the Lane Agility drill.
Jonny Flynn- Flynn showed great athleticism at the combine. He leaped a full 40-inches (33-inches flat-footed) and recorded a sub-11-second Lane Agility drill. With his performance, Flynn secured his place in the lottery and may have moved solidly into the top 10.
Blake Griffin- Griffin secured his place at #1 when he measured out to a full 6’10” in shoes, but he added an exclamation point during the athletic drills. He put up a huge 22 reps in the bench press and leaped over 35-inches (32-inches flat-footed). Griffin also ran near the Lane Agility and ¾ court sprint in nearly identical times to Jonny Flynn.
James Harden- Harden showed good speed and leaping ability, but really impressed with his bench press total of 17 reps. There’s no question Harden will be able to score at the next level, but he displayed the strength that will also make him a shut down defender in the NBA.
Gerald Henderson- Henderson failed to show the athleticism that makes him a potential lottery pick. He only leaped 35 inches, ran an 11.17-second Lane Agility drill and only managed 8 reps at 185 pounds. Henderson’s emergence during the season will keep him in the top 20, but I would be surprised to see him land in the top 12.
Jordan Hill- Hill showed solid numbers across the board, but was sluggish at best in the Agility drill, putting up a quicksand-slow 12.23 seconds. This is especially surprising because Hill’s agility and ability to run the floor are among his best assets.
Jrue Holiday- Holiday didn’t display great leaping ability or strength, but showed good speed and great agility. He clearly still has some work to do, but has tons of potential. Holiday is without question the hardest player to place in a mock (I’ve seen him go anywhere between #4 to Sacramento and #24 to Portland.) and his fate will probably depend on his individual workouts.
Brandon Jennings- Jennings did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
James Johnson- Johnson showed surprising athleticism (35-inch vertical) in addition to his expected strong showing in the bench press (18 reps). His speed and agility were also fairly respectable. In a guard-heavy class, Johnson should expect to land in the late lottery or just outside (#16 to Chicago in the worst case).
Ty Lawson- Lawson performed well at the combine, displaying the quickness that will undoubtedly be an asset at the next level. He ran a 3.12-second ¾ court sprint and managed a sub-11-second Lane Agility drill. He also impressed with a 36.5-inch vertical leap and 14 reps at 185-pounds.
Eric Maynor- Maynor’s jump shot is what separates him from the likes of Lawson, Mills and Teague, but he showed good quickness at the combine as well. His ¾ court sprint was slightly slower than Lawson’s, but his agility drill was better by two tenths of a second. Maynor only jumped 31.5-inches and managed 8 reps on the bench press, but his strength and athleticism have never been his strongest areas.
Patty Mills- Mills’ workout was steady but unspectacular. He put up a 33-inch vertical, which is admirable for a player of his size, and 8 reps on the bench press to tie Eric Maynor. He landed between Lawson and Maynor on the agility drill, while posting the quickest ¾ court sprint of the group at 3.10-seconds.
BJ Mullens- Mullens showed good leaping ability and had a respectable showing in the speed and agility drills, but only managed 10 reps on the 185-pound bench press. This is extremely disappointing for a player with such a big body. Mullens clearly needs some seasoning before he’s ready to contribute to an NBA roster, and will find it hard to crack the top 20 after his performance.
Ricky Rubio- Rubio did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
Jermaine Taylor- Taylor is one of the sleepers of the late first round in my opinion and I think he could have a Courtney Lee-like impact on a playoff team next year. He was impressive with a 37.5-inch vertical leap (34-inches flat-footed) and 16 reps at 185-pounds, but was sluggish in the speed and agility drills.
Jeff Teague- Teague has a lot of competition at his skill level and position from Lawson, Maynor and Mills, and therefore needed a good performance at the combine. He had a strong showing across the board, with a 36.5-inch vertical, 13 reps at 185-pounds, an 11.05-second agility drill, and a 3.18-second sprint. He didn’t display the quickness of a Mills or a Lawson, but Teague showed the strength and athleticism that will make him a much better NBA defender than the other three.
Hasheem Thabeet- Thabeet did not work out at the pre-draft combine.
Marcus Thornton- Thornton had a steady but unspectacular workout. He recorded a 33-inch vertical jump, 14 reps and a 3.28-second ¾ court sprint. He did post a very impressive 10.73-second Lane Agility drill, which surpassed many of the point guards in the class.
Terrence Williams- Williams’ game is based on his athleticism, and it was once again on display at the combine, as he posted a 37-inch vertical jump. Williams only managed 9 reps at 185-pounds, but did record solid speed and agility times.
Pre-Combine Player Rankings (Top 40)
1) Blake Griffin- PF (Oklahoma)
2) Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
3) James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
5) Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
6) Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
8) Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
9) Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
10) Johnny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
12) James Johnson- SF (Wake Forest)
13) Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
14) DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
15) Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
16) Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
17) Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
21) Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
22) BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
23) Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
24) Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
25) Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
26) Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
27) Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
28) Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
29) Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)
30) Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
31) Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
32) DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
33) Damion James- SF (Texas)
34) Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
35) Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky)
36) Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
37) Victor Claver- SF (Spain)
38) Toney Douglas- PG (Florida State)
39) Tyler Smith- SF (Tennessee)
40) Danny Green- SG (North Carolina)
2) Ricky Rubio- PG (Spain)
3) James Harden- SG (Arizona State)
4) Hasheem Thabeet- C (Connecticut)
5) Jordan Hill- PF (Arizona)
6) Tyreke Evans- SG (Memphis)
7) Stephen Curry- PG (Davidson)
8) Brandon Jennings- PG (Italy)
9) Earl Clark- PF (Louisville)
10) Johnny Flynn- PG (Syracuse)
11) DeMar DeRozan- SG (Southern Cal)
12) James Johnson- SF (Wake Forest)
13) Jrue Holiday- PG (UCLA)
14) DeJuan Blair- PF (Pittsburgh)
15) Gerald Henderson- SG (Duke)
16) Wayne Ellington- SG (North Carolina)
17) Eric Maynor- PG (Virginia Commonwealth)
18) Terrence Williams- SF (Louisville)
19) Jeff Teague- PG (Wake Forest)
20) Ty Lawson- PG (North Carolina)
21) Chase Buddinger- SG (Arizona)
22) BJ Mullens- C (Ohio State)
23) Patty Mills- PG (St. Mary’s)
24) Marcus Thornton- SG (Louisiana State)
25) Omri Casspi- SF (Israel)
26) Austin Daye- SF (Gonzaga)
27) Darren Collison- PG (UCLA)
28) Sam Young- SF (Pittsburgh)
29) Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)
30) Derrick Brown- SF (Xavier)
31) Jermaine Taylor- SG (Central Florida)
32) DaJuan Summers- SF (Georgetown)
33) Damion James- SF (Texas)
34) Tyler Hansbrough- PF (North Carolina)
35) Jodie Meeks- SG (Kentucky)
36) Taj Gibson- PF (Southern Cal)
37) Victor Claver- SF (Spain)
38) Toney Douglas- PG (Florida State)
39) Tyler Smith- SF (Tennessee)
40) Danny Green- SG (North Carolina)
Monday, June 1, 2009
Do you believe in Magic?
The NBA’s dream Finals match-up was derailed on Saturday when the Orlando Magic closed out the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Despite another admirable performance by LeBron James, the Cavs were unable to overcome a 40-point performance by one of the League’s most overlooked young stars. Dwight Howard went 14-for-21 from the floor and 12-for-16 from the free throw line in the decisive Game 6 to lead the Magic into a Finals clash with the Los Angeles Lakers.
While Game 6 was relatively anti-climatic after the feverish and unpredictable pace of the first five games, it provided intrigue of a different variety. While 3-time champion and 2008 MVP Kobe Bryant did his part to ensure a Cavs-Lakers showdown in the Finals, the reigning MVP came up just short, which will undoubtedly emblazon the great Kobe-LeBron debate.
The Magic’s upset of Cleveland also brings to light several other interesting topics. First, how does Orlando match up with the Lakers, both in general and relative to the how the Cavs would have matched up with L.A.? Second, what kind of impact does the Magic’s playoff run have on Dwight Howard’s status and perception? And, finally, what affect will coming up just short again have on LeBron’s big decision next summer?
Personally, I think the Magic match up with the Lakers far better than the Cavaliers would have. Zydrunas Ilgauskas was manhandled by Dwight Howard almost every minute that the two were on the floor together, and while Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol are no Dwight Howard, Big Z would have had just as tough of a time with both of them. Howard, on the other hand, will present a huge challenge to both Bynum and Gasol. Also, the Magic can guard Kobe with Mickael Pietrus, while Cleveland would probably have asked Delonte West to try to handle Kobe. West has had a strong showing in the playoffs, but he is at a huge disadvantage physically, whereas Pietrus can stretch the floor offensively and get physical with Kobe defensively.
In the end, I think that Kobe (as usual) is the difference maker. His ability to make shots in the clutch, along with the Lakers’ playoff experience should make them clear favorites in this series, though Howard’s physicality should make it interesting. I’ll pick the Lakers to win in 6 games.
With his performance in the Conference Finals, Dwight Howard removed all doubt that he is, in fact, the most imposing and intimidating interior force in the NBA. Shaq can quibble all day about which player is the real “Superman”, but the bottom line is Howard has proven himself worthy of the title. In his first couple of years in the League, Howard’s success and numbers were almost entirely due to his imposing physical stature. In the series against the Cavs, however, Howard showed ease in the low post- scoring with either hand, rebounding and altering shots. Even against James, the League’s most powerful and dominant playmaker, Superman showed poise and control. What was more surprising was Howard’s ability to make free throws when it mattered. For the series, Howard shot 70.1% from the line, including a very impressive 12-for-16 performance in the ultimate contest.
If Howard can continue to grow and improve, there’s no reason he can’t be every bit as successful as the original Superman, if not more so.
Without a 1-900 number and a crystal ball, it’s impossible to know what LeBron James will do in the summer of 2010. What we know for sure is that he will have any number of options available to him. Various teams are making no secret of their desire to lure James and his out-of-this-world talent to greener pastures next summer. The New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets have been the two most widely discussed destinations, but a European stop isn’t completely out of the question either.
This isn’t to say that staying in his home state isn’t a possibility. James grew up in Akron and was drafted by his hometown team, leading them to the NBA Finals in just his third season. After a 5th season in Cleveland, which saw the team win a franchise record 66 games (including a 39-2 mark at Quicken Loans Arena), James win an MVP award, and assert himself as the NBA’s most dominating player, he has still yet to achieve his ultimate goal- an NBA championship.
Many believe that winning a championship in Cleveland would be enough to keep LeBron in Ohio; at least through one more contract extension. Conversely, if LeBron fails to win a title next year, it would stand to reason that the NBA’s most coveted and competitive player would look for a more fruitful opportunity. After all, playing in Cleveland doesn’t allow LeBron to maximize his brand name the way playing in New York City might. Also, James’ talent by itself is enough to keep the Cavaliers in the playoffs consistently, leaving little chance for significant improvement through the draft.
I believe that all of these factors will push LeBron towards leaving Cleveland next summer, unless the Cavs win the title next year (which is not out of the question). There has to be some level of loyalty towards his hometown organization, but at the end of the day, the NBA is a business, and LeBron knows that better than most, so ultimately, I expect LeBron to do what’s best for LeBron, whatever that might be.
While Game 6 was relatively anti-climatic after the feverish and unpredictable pace of the first five games, it provided intrigue of a different variety. While 3-time champion and 2008 MVP Kobe Bryant did his part to ensure a Cavs-Lakers showdown in the Finals, the reigning MVP came up just short, which will undoubtedly emblazon the great Kobe-LeBron debate.
The Magic’s upset of Cleveland also brings to light several other interesting topics. First, how does Orlando match up with the Lakers, both in general and relative to the how the Cavs would have matched up with L.A.? Second, what kind of impact does the Magic’s playoff run have on Dwight Howard’s status and perception? And, finally, what affect will coming up just short again have on LeBron’s big decision next summer?
THE FINALS
Personally, I think the Magic match up with the Lakers far better than the Cavaliers would have. Zydrunas Ilgauskas was manhandled by Dwight Howard almost every minute that the two were on the floor together, and while Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol are no Dwight Howard, Big Z would have had just as tough of a time with both of them. Howard, on the other hand, will present a huge challenge to both Bynum and Gasol. Also, the Magic can guard Kobe with Mickael Pietrus, while Cleveland would probably have asked Delonte West to try to handle Kobe. West has had a strong showing in the playoffs, but he is at a huge disadvantage physically, whereas Pietrus can stretch the floor offensively and get physical with Kobe defensively.
In the end, I think that Kobe (as usual) is the difference maker. His ability to make shots in the clutch, along with the Lakers’ playoff experience should make them clear favorites in this series, though Howard’s physicality should make it interesting. I’ll pick the Lakers to win in 6 games.
THE BEAST
With his performance in the Conference Finals, Dwight Howard removed all doubt that he is, in fact, the most imposing and intimidating interior force in the NBA. Shaq can quibble all day about which player is the real “Superman”, but the bottom line is Howard has proven himself worthy of the title. In his first couple of years in the League, Howard’s success and numbers were almost entirely due to his imposing physical stature. In the series against the Cavs, however, Howard showed ease in the low post- scoring with either hand, rebounding and altering shots. Even against James, the League’s most powerful and dominant playmaker, Superman showed poise and control. What was more surprising was Howard’s ability to make free throws when it mattered. For the series, Howard shot 70.1% from the line, including a very impressive 12-for-16 performance in the ultimate contest.
If Howard can continue to grow and improve, there’s no reason he can’t be every bit as successful as the original Superman, if not more so.
THE FUTURE
Without a 1-900 number and a crystal ball, it’s impossible to know what LeBron James will do in the summer of 2010. What we know for sure is that he will have any number of options available to him. Various teams are making no secret of their desire to lure James and his out-of-this-world talent to greener pastures next summer. The New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets have been the two most widely discussed destinations, but a European stop isn’t completely out of the question either.
This isn’t to say that staying in his home state isn’t a possibility. James grew up in Akron and was drafted by his hometown team, leading them to the NBA Finals in just his third season. After a 5th season in Cleveland, which saw the team win a franchise record 66 games (including a 39-2 mark at Quicken Loans Arena), James win an MVP award, and assert himself as the NBA’s most dominating player, he has still yet to achieve his ultimate goal- an NBA championship.
Many believe that winning a championship in Cleveland would be enough to keep LeBron in Ohio; at least through one more contract extension. Conversely, if LeBron fails to win a title next year, it would stand to reason that the NBA’s most coveted and competitive player would look for a more fruitful opportunity. After all, playing in Cleveland doesn’t allow LeBron to maximize his brand name the way playing in New York City might. Also, James’ talent by itself is enough to keep the Cavaliers in the playoffs consistently, leaving little chance for significant improvement through the draft.
I believe that all of these factors will push LeBron towards leaving Cleveland next summer, unless the Cavs win the title next year (which is not out of the question). There has to be some level of loyalty towards his hometown organization, but at the end of the day, the NBA is a business, and LeBron knows that better than most, so ultimately, I expect LeBron to do what’s best for LeBron, whatever that might be.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)