Tuesday, December 29, 2009

2010 NBA Mock Draft (Version 8)

1)    New Jersey Nets- John Wall- PG (Kentucky)

 

This seems to be all but a sure thing at this point of the pro and college seasons.  Wall is an unbelievable athlete with undeniable superstar potential.  He seems as close to a "can't miss" prospect as we've seen since LeBron James.

 

2)    Philadelphia 76ers- Derrick Favors- PF (Georgia Tech)

 

Philadelphia vaults Minnesota in the draft order this week due to their ongoing struggle to find a consistent rotation.  Elton Brand is signed long term and virtually untradable, and Marresse Speights looks like the long term answer at center, but a Favors-Speights combo would be imposing for years to come.  Philly could really use a true point guard (I'm still convinced that Lou Williams is more of a Jamal Crawford-Leandro Barbosa sixth man-type.), but the value just isn't there at #2.

 

3)    Minnesota Timberwolves- Wesley Johnson- SG (Syracuse)

 

Johnson has continued to build on his impressive start and has worked himself into the top five discussion.  While this still may be a bit of a reach, Johnson's blend of defensive acumen and outside shooting ability is exactly what Minnesota needs on the perimeter.

 

4)    Indiana Pacers- Xavier Henry- SG (Kansas)

 

Henry is right near the top of my draft board because of his NBA-ready body and efficient scoring ability.  Indiana took another Kansas off-guard in Brandon Rush two years ago, but Rush's career scoring average of eight points per game leaves something to be desired.  Willie Warren is another option here.

 

5)    Golden State Warriors- Ed Davis- PF (North Carolina)

 

Golden State is stacked in the backcourt but very thin at the three spot and the frontcourt.  They could take a look at Evan Turner, Devin Ebanks or Al-Farouq Aminu, but the talent in this draft is found at the power forward spot.  I've been a critic of Davis from the start, but he has the skills to develop into a very nice player once he matures.

 

6)    Detroit Pistons- Cole Aldrich- C (Kansas)

 

Detroit appears to be healthier than they've been all season and just in the nick of time.  After scoring just 64 points in a loss to Toronto (one of the league's worst defensive teams) and posting a 0-3 week, Detroit finds themselves all the way up to the number six spot.  Aldrich is a great rebounder and an offensive presence on the low block, which would make him a nice fit next to Charlie Villanueva's perimeter-oriented game.

 

7)    Washington Wizards- Devin Ebanks- SG (West Virginia)

 

You'll find the Washington Wizards team photo in the dictionary next to the word 'enigma'.  They've gotten some quality wins (Dallas, Cleveland and Miami), but also had some ghastly performances.  I entirely expect one of their Big Three to be traded, and Caron Butler seems to be the likely choice.  Ebanks has a huge ceiling and would be a nice replacement down the line.

 

8)    Charlotte Bobcats- Greg Monroe- PF (Georgetown)

 

Monroe has had a couple of huge games against smaller competition (Butler and Harvard), but he really needs to lead his team deep into March if he wants to land in the top 10.

 

9)    Utah Jazz (from New York via Phoenix)- Evan Turner- SG (Ohio State)

 

Turner's talent could vault him into the top five if he can be productive after his terrifying back injury, but until teams see him play again, the bottom of the top 10 seems optimistic.  Utah could use an offensive-minded swingman who can play both perimeter positions, and Turner fits the bill very nicely.

 

10) Memphis Grizzlies- Avery Bradley- PG (Texas)

 

Memphis has a talented young starting five, and drafted backups at all both forward spots and center in last year's draft.  They may opt for a small forward if they feel Rudy Gay will walk in free agency this summer, but Bradley would be a nice backup to Mike Conley for the time being and a sizeable upgrade down the line.

 

11) New Orleans Hornets- Al-Farouq Aminu- SF (Wake Forest)

 

New Orleans needs help on several fronts.  They will likely look at Aminu and Donatas Motiejunas with this pick.  While both are solid players, each is considered by some to be a project.  The determining factor, though, will be Aminu's versatility.  He's long and athletic, and effective on both ends of the floor.  Aside from Chris Paul, the Hornets boast a roster of specialists, so a player like Aminu would be a nice addition.

 

12) Los Angeles Clippers- Willie Warren- PG (Oklahoma)

 

Warren will likely slide on draft night due to his lack of size and questions about his point guard skills, but the Clippers would be smart to snatch him if he falls to them.  He could be another deadly scorer to add to their already potent mix, and adding a former Sooner teammate would be very comforting to franchise centerpiece Blake Griffin.

 

13) Sacramento Kings- Donatas Motiejunas- PF (Lithuania)

 

Sacramento needs to find a franchise small forward to complete their rebuilding effort, but short of Paul George, no more three men will even sniff the lottery.  Instead, they opt for the best player available in Motiejunas.  The Lithuanian power forward appears to be a huge project, but he does have a high ceiling.  In 11 Italian League games, he is averaging nine points, four rebounds and 1.3 steals in just over 19 minutes per game.  However, he has yet to block a shot, and many scouts question his toughness and his rebounding ability.

 

14) Oklahoma City Thunder- DeMarcus Cousins- PF (Kentucky)

 

Oklahoma City has the makings of a very competitive roster, but the need depth at point guard and in the frontcourt.  Cousins will likely need time to mature, but he has a lot of upside and could develop into an All-Star.

 

15) Milwaukee Bucks- Patrick Patterson- PF (Kentucky)

 

Patterson has been a consistent performer for the Wildcats, and seemed to transition seamlessly to a new coach.  He appears to have a long NBA career ahead of him.

 

16) Chicago Bulls- James Anderson- SG (Oklahoma State)

 

Anderson scored 28 points in back-to-back games last week, vaulting himself into contention for Big 12 Player of the Year honors.  He has fantastic range and would be a great fit along with Derrick Rose's drive and kick game.

 

17) Miami Heat (from Toronto)- Solomon Alabi- C (Florida State)

 

Miami would love to team LeBron James or Chris Bosh with Dwyane Wade, but either way, the departure of Jermaine O'Neal will leave the Heat without a true center.  Alabi has great size (7'1") and surprising touch at the free throw line (79.6%).

 

18) Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah)- Paul George- SF (Fresno State)

 

Minnesota could use a perimeter slasher or a shot-blocking center, so George and Tulsa's Jerome Jordan are possibilities here.  George gets the nod because of his athleticism and upside.

 

19) Houston Rockets- Jerome Jordan- C (Tulsa)

 

I have no doubt that Houston will target a true center with this pick.  Whether Yao returns to his old form or not, a second 7-footer would really help a Rockets' rotation full of power forwards.

 

20) Miami Heat- Lance Stephenson- SG (Cincinnati)

 

Stephenson has good size and flashy skills.  He also has some character questions and looks like a "hit-or-miss" prospect.

 

21) San Antonio Spurs- Dexter Pittman- C (Texas)

 

Pittman is a local product and a very hard worker.  He also has great hands and underrated shot-blocking ability.

 

22) Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix)- Kemba Walker- PG (Connecticut)

 

Walker is still an under-the-radar prospect, but I like him a lot.  He is extremely quick and provides great energy, which make him the perfect fit as a backup behind a turnover-prone starter with questionable shot selection.

 

23) Portland Trail Blazers- Damion James- SF (Texas)

 

Portland has learned their lesson about passing on small forwards who entered Texas in 2007.  James doesn't have the upside of a Durant, but he has a very versatile game.  He rebounds extremely well for a man of his size (10.8 per game this season and 7.2 or better in each of his four years at Texas) and has increased his scoring average each season.

 

24) Memphis Grizzlies (from Denver)- Jan Vesely- SF (Czech Republic)

 

Vesely, like Motiejunas is only 19-years old, and has a lot of growing to do.  He has played 22 minutes per game and averaged seven points and three rebounds in 14 Adriatic League games.  Many scouts believe he has the athleticism and defensive aggression to become a very solid NBA player after another year or two in Europe.

 

25) New Jersey Nets (from Dallas)- Larry Sanders- PF (Virginia Commonwealth)

 

The Nets get a shot-blocking presence on the inside in Sanders, who badly needs to add some bulk in order to be an NBA contributor.

 

26) Atlanta Hawks- Craig Brackins- PF (Iowa State)

 

Atlanta lands the steal of the first round in Brackins, a lottery talent with a face up game similar to that of Charlie Villanueva.

 

27) Orlando Magic- Sheron Collins- PG (Kansas)

 

Collins is a proven leader and winner with a deadly crossover dribble and a respectable outside jump shot.

 

28) Boston Celtics- Chris Wight- SF (Dayton)

 

Wright has good size and a skill set similar to Ryan Gomes when he came out of Providence.  Gomes, remember, was drafted by Danny Ainge and the Celtics.

 

29) Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarvis Varnado- PF (Mississippi State)

 

Varnado is a terrific shot blocker, but is very raw at the offensive end.  Opinions also vary on his rebounding ability, but a player of his caliber is worth a risk at #29.

 

30) Memphis Grizzlies (from LA Lakers)- Da'Sean Butler- SG (West Virginia)

 

Butler (along with Ebanks) has led West Virginia to a very surprising 10-0 start, launching him into late first round contention.  Butler has good size at 6'7" and the ability to guard multiple positions, as well as a very polished offensive arsenal.

Monday, December 28, 2009

NBA Power Rankings- December 28th

CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS

1)    LA Lakers (24-5)- (W-OKC, SAC; L-CLE) Last: 1

2)    Cleveland (24-8)- (W-PHO, SAC, LAL, HOU) Last: 3

3)    Boston (23-6)- (W-IND, ORL; L-LAC) Last: 2

4)    Orlando (22-8)- (W-UTA, HOU; L-BOS) Last: 4

5)    Atlanta (21-8)- (W-MIN, IND; L-DEN) Last: 5

PLAYOFF POSITION

6)    Dallas (22-9)- (W-MEM, DEN; L-POR) Last: 7

7)    Denver (20-11)- (W-ATL; L-POR, DAL) Last: 6

8)    Portland (20-12)- (W-DAL, SAS, DEN) Last: 10

9)    Phoenix (19-12)- (W-LAC; L-CLE, OKC, GSW) Last: 8

10) San Antonio (17-11)- (W-LAC, MIL, NYK; L-POR) Last: 9

11) Miami (16-12)- (W-UTA, NYK, IND) Last: 13

12) Houston (18-13)- (W-LAC, NJN; L-ORL, CLE) Last: 11

13) Utah (17-13)- (W-PHI; L-ORL, MIA) Last: 12

14) Oklahoma City (15-14)- (W- PHO, CHA; L-LAL) Last: 14

SERIOUS STRUGGLES

15) Sacramento (13-16)- (W-CHI; L-CLE, LAL) Last: 16

16) Toronto (15-17)- (W-DET, DET) Last: 15

17) LA Clippers (13-17)- (W-BOS; L-SAS, HOU, PHO) Last: 18

18) New Orleans (13-15)- (W-GSW; L-CHI) Last: 17

19) Memphis (13-16)- (W-GSW; L-DAL) Last: 19

20) Chicago (11-17)- (W-NOH; L-SAC, NYK) Last: 20

21) Milwaukee (12-16)- (W-IND; L-WAS, SAS) Last: 21

22) New York (11-19)- (W-CHI; L-MIA, SAS) Last: 23

23) Charlotte (11-17)- (W-DET; L-OKC) Last: 24

24) Washington (10-18)- (W-PHI, MIL; L-MIN) Last: 26

25) Detroit (11-19)- (L-CHA, TOR, TOR) Last: 22

26) Golden State (8-21)- (W-PHO; L-MEM, NOH) Last: 28

27) Indiana (9-20)- (L-MIL, BOS, ATL, MIA) Last: 25

28) Minnesota (7-24)- (W- NJN, WAS; L-ATL) Last: 29

29) Philadelphia (7-22)- (L-WAS, UTA) Last: 27

30) New Jersey (2-28)- (L-MIN, HOU) Last: 30

Saturday, December 26, 2009

1st Quarter R.O.Y. Standings




1) Tyreke Evans- PG (Sacramento)

Evans has looked like a future superstar through the season’s first quarter. Through his team’s first 24 games, Evans is averaging over 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists per game. If he can continue that pace, he’ll be only the fourth rookie in NBA history to post such a season. Who were the first three? You might have heard of them- Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James. Evans has missed one game with an injury and shown typical rookie inconsistency at times, but he seems to always be in complete control of the basketball game. It will be interesting to see how his role changes when teammate Kevin Martin returns from his injury, but through the season’s first 25 games or so, Evans is the class of the ’09 draft.

2) Brandon Jennings- PG (Milwaukee)

Milwaukee found an absolute steal in Jennings with the 10th pick in the draft. Jennings has certainly displayed the most explosiveness of all of this year’s rookies, as witnessed by his breakout performance against the Warriors. Jennings netted 55 points, a feat that hadn’t been achieved since 1968. He has, however, struggled with his shot selection and consequently seen his staggering early season numbers dwindle a bit. He is still averaging 20.7 points and six assists per game, but on only 41.7% from the field.

3) Jonny Flynn- PG (Minnesota)

At this point, it appears to be a two-horse race for the Rookie of the Year, but Flynn is the best of the rest. Sure, Flynn is playing for a Minnesota team that to date has just four wins, but it’s not entirely the fault of their rookie point guard. Flynn has averaged 14 points and four assists per game, along with one steal and one made 3-pointer per contest. He is also dealing with a time-share situation with Ramon Sessions, which deters his numbers somewhat.

4) Stephen Curry- PG (Golden State)

Curry is also dealing with a time-share of sorts, in a crowded backcourt consisting of Monta Ellis, Anthony Morrow, and C.J. Watson. However, he has been surprisingly efficient, shooting 44% from the field and 82% from the free throw line on his way to 11.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Actually, over the past 15 games or so, Curry has been marginally better than Flynn, but his slow start has him in fourth place for the time being.

5) Ty Lawson- PG (Denver)

Anyone notice a trend with the top five? Lawson, the fifth point guard in the top five spots, has struggled a bit to see the floor since J.R. Smith’s return, but has still had a nice start to the season. In fact, after the first five games of the year, Lawson may have been the leading contender for the award. However, as other players’ numbers have improved (Evans, Jennings, and Curry), Lawson’s have tapered off. Still, through 26 games, he has averaged a respectable eight points, two rebounds, and three assists on 49.7% shooting.

6) Taj Gibson- PF (Chicago)
7) James Harden- SG (Oklahoma City)
8) Wes Matthews- SG (Utah)
9) Chase Budinger- SG (Houston)
10) (Tie) Marcus Thornton and Darren Collison- SG, PG (New Orleans)

Friday, December 25, 2009

2010 NBA Mock Draft (Version 7)

 

1)    New Jersey Nets- John Wall- PG (Kentucky)

 

Wall continues to distinguish himself as the best player in the country.  After leading the Wildcats to their 2,000th all-time win, many analysts believe Wall is the front-runner to win National Player of the Year.  His athleticism and size are impossible to overlook, even for a team with a franchise point guard already on the roster.

 

2)    Minnesota Timberwolves- Wesley Johnson- SG (Syracuse)

 

Johnson is an extremely hard worker with a diverse skill set on both sides of the ball.  He can take the ball to the tin with authority, as well as score efficiently from the outside.  His defense, though, is what distances him from the other perimeter players in this draft.  Minnesota needs help on both sides of the ball, and Johnson provides it.

 

3)    Golden State Warriors- Derrick Favors- PF (Georgia Tech)

 

Golden State jumps into the top three for the first time and lands the preeminent post player in this class.  Don Nelson's up-tempo system relies on perimeter shooters and slashers, but after injuries to Andris Biedrins and Ronny Turiaf, the Warriors' lack of depth up front has become a serious issue.  Favors could be a Dwight Howard-like presence surrounded by Golden State's plethora of firepower.

 

4)    Philadelphia 76ers- Xavier Henry- SG (Kansas)

 

Henry is a fantastic scorer and possibly the most efficient player in the country.  Philadelphia could use a point guard or a swingman with range, so Henry and Willie Warren are really the only two choices with Johnson off the board, and Henry has a much higher ceiling. 

 

5)    Washington Wizards- Ed Davis- PF (North Carolina)

 

Washington is in free-fall mode and I'm sure a mutiny will be sure to follow.  There is almost assuredly a trade on the horizon, so this pick could reflect the result of such a move.  Caron Butler would likely be the odd man out because of his palatable contract and disposition, so Evan Turner or Al-Farouq Aminu could land here, depending on the Wizards' incoming package.

 

6)    Indiana Pacers- Willie Warren- PG (Oklahoma)

 

It seems that no matter where the Pacers land in the top 10, Willie Warren seems to be slotted in as their pick.  He has solid point guard size and a good drive and kick game, which would benefit Indiana's core of shooters (Danny Granger, Troy Murphy, and Brandon Rush).

 

7)    Charlotte Bobcats- Donatas Motiejunas- PF (Lithuania)

 

Motiejunas had a ton of hype before the start of the season, but we haven't really heard much from him yet this year.  Regardless, he's till the elite international prospect in this draft class, so he'll garner some intrigue.  Charlotte could use a big man, so it'll likely be between Motiejunas, Cole Aldrich, and Greg Monroe at this spot.

 

8)    Utah Jazz (from New York via Phoenix)- Evan Turner- SG (Ohio State)

 

It'll be interesting to see how far Turner's stock drops after his devastating neck injury, but he seems like a great fit for a Utah team that could use a versatile swingman that can pull the ball in the basket.  Cole Aldrich is another possibility here.

 

9)    Detroit Pistons- Cole Aldrich- C (Kansas)

 

Aldrich's stock is hurting a bit after failing to make a field goal in 27 minutes against Michigan and struggling with foul trouble against Cal, but this is the dream scenario for the Pistons. Detroit is stocked on the perimeter and have a face up shooter and a below average rebounder at power forward in Charlie Villanueva, making Aldrich's post moves and rebounding acumen a great fit.

 

10) Memphis Grizzlies- Greg Monroe- PF (Georgetown)

 

Monroe is a polarizing prospect due to his high level of skill, but surprisingly pedestrian production.  However, much like former Big East Player of the Year Jeff Green, I expect Monroe's numbers to actually increase at the next level.

 

11) Los Angeles Clippers- Avery Bradley- PG (Texas)

 

This is Bradley's first inclusion to my mock draft, not because of his lack of talent, but because of his lack of minutes and exposure.  However, on Saturday against North Carolina, Bradley had his coming out party, with a career-high 20 points.  The Clippers have a nice young nucleus with Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, and Al Thornton, but they badly need a point guard-of-the-future, and they'll likely roll the dice on Bradley.

 

12) New Orleans Hornets- Al-Farouq Aminu- SF (Wake Forest)

 

New Orleans will likely target an athletic wingman like Aminu, Devin Ebanks or Paul George, but getting a player of Aminu's caliber at #12 is a bargain.  He has top five talent and will likely be motivated by a bit of a drop on draft night.

 

13) Sacramento Kings- Devin Ebanks- SF (West Virginia)

 

Ebanks is still struggling to get back into the flow of things after missing the start of the Mountaineers' season, but his talent is unassailable.  Like the Clippers and the Thunder, Sacramento has a nice young core of players (Tyreke Evans, Kevin Martin and Jason Thompson), but could use an answer at the small forward.  Ebanks will likely need some time, but could turn into a great player at the next level.

 

14) Oklahoma City Thunder- DeMarcus Cousins- PF (Kentucky)

 

Oklahoma City has the makings of a great perimeter rotation with Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Thabo Sefolosha, but could really use some depth at point guard and up front.  With Bradley gone, there isn't value at point guard, so it'll likely come down to Cousins, Craig Brackins, Patrick Patterson, Solomon Alabi and Dexter Pittman, who like Bradley could sniff the lottery after a big performance on the national stage.

 

15) Milwaukee Bucks- Patrick Patterson- PF (Kentucky)

 

Patterson has been a consistent and versatile performer under multiple coaches at Kentucky.  He seems to have the mental makeup required for a long NBA career.  Milwaukee could use an upgrade at any position from the two through the four, but Patterson is the best player available.

 

16) Chicago Bulls- James Anderson- SG (Oklahoma State)

 

Something tells me that Taj Gibson's emergence will make Tyrus Thomas expendable sooner or later, so Chicago could go several ways with this pick.  If their roster remains in tact, they'll likely look for an outside shooter to spread the floor for Derrick Rose to drive and kick.

 

17) Miami Heat (from Toronto)- Paul George- SF (Fresno State)

 

I maintain that Miami is likely to draft the best player(s) available with their first round pick(s).  George has great size and athleticism and would give the Heat a lot of flexibility alongside Dwyane Wade and Michael Beasley.

 

18) Miami Heat- Larry Sanders- PF (Virginia Commonwealth)

 

Sanders has good size and great natural shot-blocking ability, but he is extremely frail, not unlike Tyrus Thomas when he first entered the league.  He may need some time to develop, but could become a very effective member of Miami's frontcourt rotation.

 

19) Minnesota Timberwolves (from Utah)- Solomon Alabi- C (Florida State)

 

Alabi is the largest player in the first round discussion at 7'1", and while Minnesota has talent up front in Al Jefferson and Kevin Love, they lack a true center.  Alabi is exactly that and would provide some needed shot blocking on the inside.

 

20) Houston Rockets- Jerome Jordan- C (Tulsa)

 

Like Minnesota, Houston badly needs a true 7-footer to add to a rotation of power forwards.  Only time will tell if Yao Ming is able to return to form, but even if he does, having a quality backup like Jordan would take a lot of pressure off of Yao and his fragile lower extremities.

 

21) Portland Trail Blazers- Elias Harris- SF (Gonzaga)

 

Harris has made a splash on the national scene as of late, and would be a welcome addition for the Blazers.  A Gonzaga product would create a buzz for Portland, a franchise still looking for their answer at the small forward.

 

22) San Antonio Spurs- Dexter Pittman- C (Texas)

 

Pittman did himself a real favor by dominating North Carolina's celebrated front line on Saturday.  With his 23 points and 15 rebounds against Ed Davis, Deon Thompson and company, Pittman all but assured himself a first round look, if not an outside shot at the lottery.  He also has a great attitude and an admirable work ethic, which are invaluable under the Greg Popovich regime.

 

23) Oklahoma City Thunder (from Phoenix)- Kemba Walker- PG (Connecticut)

 

For all of Oklahoma City's strides in the past few drafts, they find themselves very thin at point guard.  Behind Russell Westbrook on the Thunder's depth chart you'll find Kevin Ollie and Shaun Livingston.  Walker would be a huge improvement.

 

24) New Jersey Nets (from Dallas)- Craig Brackins- PF (Iowa State)

 

New Jersey would love more of a banger on the inside, but Brackins has a nice face up game and would be a good compliment to Brook Lopez.

 

25) Memphis Grizzlies (from Denver)- Lance Stephenson- SG (Cincinnati)

 

After grabbing Greg Monroe at #10, Memphis will look for a perimeter replacement for Rudy Gay, who will almost certainly change addresses this summer.  Stephenson is more of a shooting guard, but he has decent size and good length.

 

26) Atlanta Hawks- Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)

 

Lawal has taken a back seat to freshman Derrick Favors, but he's still putting up nice numbers, and has shown a very positive team-first attitude.  He is also a local product and would be a nice addition to a front line of Josh Smith, Al Horford and Zaza Pachulia.

 

27) Orlando Magic- Sheron Collins- PG (Kansas)

 

Collins is a similar prospect to Jameer Nelson when he came out of St. Joseph's a few years back.  He is undersized and wide, but is a great ball-handler with the ability to stretch the floor.

 

28) Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarvis Varnado- PF (Mississippi State)

 

Varnado is an excellent shot blocker, who would provide an infusion of youth and energy to an aging front line.

 

29) Boston Celtics- Damion James- SF (Texas)

 

James has good size and great heart.  He is a consistent scorer and an above average rebounder for a player of his size.  He has the tools to be a really solid rotation player at the next level.

 

30) Memphis Grizzlies (from LA Lakers)- Jan Vesely- PF (Czech Republic)

 

Memphis doesn't have a huge need for Vesely right now, but with three first round picks, expect them to grab at least one foreign prospect to stash in Europe for a year or two.  Vesely has good size and versatility and is a good value at #30.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

NBA Power Rankings- December 21st

CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS

1)    LA Lakers (22-4)- (W-CHI, MIL, NJN, DET) Last: 1

2)    Boston (21-5)- (W-MEM, MIN; L-PHI) Last: 2

3)    Cleveland (20-8)- (W-NJN, PHI, MIL; L-DAL) Last: 3

4)    Orlando (20-7)- (W-IND, TOR, POR; L-MIA) Last: 4

5)    Atlanta (19-7)- (W-MEM, UTA; L-CHI) Last: 5

PLAYOFF POSITION

6)    Denver (19-9)- (W-OKC, HOU; L-NOH, MEM) Last: 6

7)    Dallas (20-8)- (W-NOH, OKC, CLE; L-HOU) Last: 7

8)    Phoenix (18-9)- (W-SAS, WAS; L-POR) Last: 8

9)    San Antonio (14-10)- (W-GSW, IND; L-PHO) Last: 10

10) Portland (17-12)- (W-SAC, PHO, MIA; L-ORL) Last: 12

11) Houston (16-11)- (W-DET, DAL, OKC; L-DEN) Last: 11

12) Utah (16-11)- (W-NJN, CHA; L-MIN, ATL) Last: 9

13) Miami (13-12)- (W-TOR, ORL; L-POR) Last: 14

14) Oklahoma City (13-13)- (W-DET; L-DEN, DAL, HOU) Last: 13

SERIOUS STRUGGLES

15) Toronto (13-17)- (W-NJN, NOH; L-MIA, ORL) Last: 15

16) Sacramento (12-14)- (W-WAS, MIL; L-POR, MIN) Last: 16

17) New Orleans (12-14)- (W-DET, DEN; L-DAL, TOR) Last: 19

18) LA Clippers (12-14)- (W-WAS, MIN, PHI; L-NYK) Last: 20

19) Memphis (12-15)- (W-IND, DEN; L-BOS, ATL) Last: 21

20) Chicago (10-15)- (W-NYK, ATL; L-LAL) Last: 25

21) Milwaukee (11-14)- (L-LAL, CLE, SAC) Last: 17

22) Detroit (11-16)- (L-HOU, NOH, OKC, LAL) Last: 18

23) New York (10-17)- (W-LAC, CHA; L-CHA, CHI) Last: 23

24) Charlotte (10-16)- (W-NYK; L-IND, UTA, CHA) Last: 22

25) Indiana (9-16)- (W-CHA; L-ORL, MEM, SAS) Last: 26

26) Washington (8-17)- (W-GSW; L-LAC, SAC, PHO) Last: 24

27) Philadelphia (7-20)- (W-GSW, BOS; L-CLE, LAC) Last: 28

28) Golden State (7-19)- (L-PHI, SAS, WAS) Last: 27

29) Minnesota (5-23)- (W-UTA, SAC; L-LAC, BOS) Last: 29

30) New Jersey (2-26)- (L-CLE, UTA, TOR, LAL) Last: 30

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

2010 NBA Draft Player Rankings (Version 2)

The following is a list of the top prospects from international leagues and the NCAA.  It includes underclassmen and various international prospects, and is not an estimate or a projection of which players will enter their names into the 2010 NBA Draft.  Stats shown are accurate through Sunday, December 13th.

 

1)    John Wall- PG (Kentucky)- (18 pts, 4 rebs, 7 asts, 2.8 stls, 54% FG, 79% FT)

2)    Derrick Favors- PF (Georgia Tech)- (13.4 pts, 8.3 rebs, 2.1 blks, 68% FG, 73% FT)

3)    Wesley Johnson- SG (Syracuse)- (16.5 pts, 7.7 rebs, 2.5 asts, 2.2 stls, 2.2 blks, 59% FG, 68% FT, 54% 3P)

4)    Xavier Henry- SG (Kansas)- (18 pts, 4 rebs, 2 asts, 1.8 stls, 56% FG, 82% FT, 53% 3P)

5)    Evan Turner- SG (Ohio State)- (18.5 pts, 11.4 rebs, 6 asts, 1.5 stls, 1.3 blks, 61% FG, 69% FT) (8 games)

6)    Cole Aldrich- C (Kansas)- (12 pts, 9.6 rebs, 3.6 blks, 56% FG, 70% FT)

7)    Donatas Motiejunas- PF (Lithuania)

8)    Al-Farouq Aminu- SF (Wake Forest)- (16 pts, 10 rebs, 2 asts, 1.4 stls, 46% FG, 77% FT)

9)    Ed Davis- PF (North Carolina)- (14 pts, 9.5 rebs, 2.7 blks, 69% FG, 68% FT)

10) Willie Warren- PG (Oklahoma)- (19.6 pts, 3.3 rebs, 5.1 asts, 44% FG, 83% FT, 26% 3P)

11) Greg Monroe- PF (Georgetown)- (15.3 pts, 10.3 rebs, 3 asts, 1 stls, 1.4 blks, 45% FG, 60% FT)

12) Paul George- SF (Fresno State)- (17.3 pts, 8 rebs, 3.1 asts, 2.8 stls, 44% FG, 91% FT, 40% 3P)

13) Craig Brackins- PF (Iowa State)- (18.2 pts, 7.6 rebs, 2.4 asts, 1 stls, 1.5 blks, 48% FG, 74% FT)

14) Solomon Alabi- C (Florida State)- (11.4 pts, 6.7 rebs, 2.2 blks, 56% FG, 90% FT)

15)  Devin Ebanks- SF (West Virginia)- (10.7 pts, 6 rebs, 1.7 asts, 1 stls, 1.3 blks, 34% FG, 92% FT)

16)  DeMarcus Cousins- PF (Kentucky)- (14.2 pts, 8.3 rebs, 2.2 blks, 53% FG, 54% FT)

17) Patrick Patterson- PF (Kentucky)- (17 pts, 9.6 rebs, 62.5% FG, 53% FT)

18) Quincy Pondexter- SF (Washington)- (22 pts, 9 rebs, 2 asts, 2.3 stls, 55% FG, 85% FT)

19)  James Anderson- SG (Oklahoma State)- (20.4 pts, 6.3 rebs, 1 blks, 46% FG, 85% FT, 1.7 3PM/G)

20) Kemba Walker- PG (Connecticut)- (15 pts, 4 rebs, 6 asts, 2.4 stls, 44% FG, 73% FT)

21) Jerome Jordan- C (Tulsa)- (14.4 pts, 9 rebs, 3.9 blks, 53% FG, 70% FT)

22) Elias Harris- SF (Gonzaga)- (13.3 pts, 7 rebs, 1 stls, 55% FG, 75% FT)

23) Lance Stephenson- SG (Cincinnati)- (13 pts, 6 rebs, 2.5 asts, 1 stls, 44% FG, 64% FT)

24) Jarvis Varnado- PF (Mississippi State)- (14 pts, 10.3 rebs, 5.2 blks, 65% FG, 67% FT)

25)  Gani Lawal- PF (Georgia Tech)- (14.7 pts, 10.3 rebs, 1.3 blks, 64% FG, 62% FT)

26)  Damion James- SF (Texas)- (16.4 pts, 10.3 rebs, 1.4 stls, 1 blks, 55% FG, 69% FT)

27)  Larry Sanders- PF (Virginia Commonwealth)- (13.6 pts, 8.4 rebs, 3 blks, 56% FG, 57% FT)

28)  Sheron Collins- PG (Kansas)- (13.3 pts, 4.4 asts, 1.3 stls, 44% FG, 77% FT, 43% 3P)

29) Chris Wright- SF (Dayton)- (14.4 pts, 7 rebs, 61% FG, 76% FT)

30) Jan Vesely- PF (Czech Republic)

31) Luke Babbit- SF (Nevada)- (18 pts, 10.5 rebs, 49% FG, 91% FT)

32) Da'Sean Butler- SF (West Virginia)- (16.7 pts, 5.6 rebs, 3.7 asts, 48% FG, 78% FT)

33) Dexter Pittman- C (Texas)- (13.6 pts, 6 rebs, 2.6 blks, 78% FG, 51% FT)

34) Terrico White- SG (Mississippi)- (16.3 pts, 4.3 rebs, 1.4 asts, 1 stls, 43% FG, 67% FT)

35) Arnett Moultrie- PF (UTEP)- (13.7 pts, 7 rebs, 2.7 stls, 1.2 blks, 54% FG, 62% FT)

36)  Matthew Delladova-PG (St. Mary's)- (15 pts, 3 rebs, 4 asts, 1.3 stls, 47% FG, 100% FT)

37) Sylven Landesberg- SG (Virginia)- (17 pts, 4.5 rebs, 2,5 asts, 47% FG, 76% FT)

38) Deon Thompson- PF (North Carolina)- (17 pts, 8 rebs, 1 stls, 55% FG, 80% FT)

39) Aubrey Coleman-SG (Houston)- (27 pts, 7.5 rebs, 3.5 asts, 3.8 stls, 48% FG, 74% FT)

40) Avery Bradley- PG (Texas)- (10 pts, 2 asts, 1.4 stls, 47% FG, 45% FT, 44% 3P)

41) Kyle Singler- SF (Duke)- (17 pts, 7 rebs, 3 asts, 1 stls, 1 blks, 42% FG, 80% FT)

42) Stanley Robinson- SF (Connecticut)- (15 pts, 7.4 rebs, 1.8 blks, 51% FG, 62% FT)

43) Lazar Hayward-PF (Marquette)- (19 pts, 7 rebs, 1.4 stls, 43% FG, 81% FT)

44)  Manny Harris- SG (Michigan)- (22 pts, 8 rebs, 5 asts, 2 stls, 47% FG, 76% FT)

45) John Henson- PF (North Carolina)- (4 pts, 3 rebs, 1.1 blks, 45% FG, 43% FT)

46) Luke Harangody- PF (Notre Dame)- (24.6 pts, 10 rebs, 1 blks, 53% FG, 82% FT)

47) Alexey Shved- PG (Russia)

48) Gordon Hayward- SF (Butler)- (17 pts, 8 rebs, 2 asts, 1.1 stls, 44% FG, 87% FT)

49) Tiny Gallon- PF (Oklahoma)- (12 pts, 9 rebs, 1 blks, 60% FG, 69% FT)

50) Kenneth Faried- PF (Morehead State)- (18 pts, 13.5 rebs, 1.7 stls, 1.7 blks, 50% FG, 73% FT)

51) Tyler Smith- SF (Tennessee)- (12.5 pts, 5 rebs, 4 asts, 1.1 stls, 59% FG, 70% FT)

52) Trevor Booker- PF (Clemson)- (14 pts, 9 rebs, 2 asts, 1.7 stls, 52% FG, 63% FT)

53)  Robbie Hummel- SF (Purdue)- (14.6 pts, 7 rebs, 2 asts, 1 stls, 1 blks, 46% FG, 91% FT)

54) Latavious Williams- PF (USA-D League)

55) Jordan Hamilton- SF (Texas)- (10 pts, 4 rebs, 1.6 asts, 42% FG, 67% FT)

56) Armon Johnson-PG (Nevada)- (17 pts, 4 rebs, 5.4 asts, 51% FG, 75% FT)

57) A.J. Ogilvy- C (Vanderbilt)- (13 pts, 5.6 rebs, 1.8 blks, 52% FG, 72% FT)

58) Kenny Boynton- PG (Florida)- (14.6 pts, 3 rebs, 4 asts, 38% FG, 67% FT)

59) Malcolm Lee- PG/SG (UCLA)- (13 pts, 5 rebs, 3 asts, 1.3 stls, 38% FG, 62% FT)

60) Ater Majok- C (Connecticut)

61) Ekpe Udoh-PF (Baylor)- (15 pts, 9.4 rebs, 3.3 blks, 66% FG, 43% FT)

62) Kalin Lucas- PG (Michigan State)- (16.7 pts, 4.5 asts, 1.3 stls, 52% FG, 76% FT)

63) Storm Warren-PF (Louisiana State)- (16.6 pts, 11.4 rebs, 1.9 blks, 64% FG, 71% FT)

64) A.J. Slaughter- SG (Western Kentucky)- (16.4 pts, 3 rebs, 3 asts, 1.5 stls, 42% FG, 77% FT)

65)  Jeff Taylor- SF (Vanderbilt)- (16 pts, 6.6 rebs, 1.6 stls, 51% FG, 79% FT)

66) William Buford- SG (Ohio State)- (12 pts, 3.6 rebs, 3 asts, 38% FG, 73% FT)

67) Renardo Sidney- PF (Mississippi State)

68) Tomas Satoransky- SG (Czech Republic)

69) Samardo Samuels- PF (Louisville)- (15.4 pts, 6 rebs, 53% FG, 68% FT)

70) Klay Thompson-SG (Washington State)- (25 pts, 6 rebs, 2.6 asts, 2.1 stls, 49% FG, 78% FT)

71) Artsiom Parakhouski- C (Radford)- (22.5 pts, 15 rebs, 2.1 blks, 57% FG, 51% FT)

72) Artem Zabelin- PF (Russia)

73) Scotty Hopson- SG (Tennessee)- (14 pts, 4 rebs, 1.6 asts, 1 stls, 50% FG, 63% FT, 51% 3P)

74)  Jerome Dyson- SG (Connecticut)- (20 pts, 5.5 rebs, 5 asts, 1.5 stls, 1 blks, 38% FG, 71% FT)

75) Greivis Vasquez- SF (Maryland)- (13.6 pts, 4 rebs, 6 asts, 1.6 stls, 34% FG, 88% FT)

76) JaMychal Green-PF (Alabama)- (14.6 pts, 7 rebs, 1.1 stls, 2.2 blks, 49% FG, 70% FT)

77) Tyshawn Taylor- PG/SG (Kansas)- (7.3 pts, 3 rebs, 4 asts, 1.6 stls, 40% FG, 68% FT)

78) Elliot Williams-SG (Memphis)- (21 pts, 4.5 rebs, 3 asts, 2 stls, 51% FG, 74% FT)

79) Keith Benson-C (Oakland)- (18 pts, 11.4 rebs, 3.9 blks, 53% FG, 81% FT)

80) Yancy Gates-PF (Cincinnati)- (12.4 pts, 7.5 rebs, 1.6 blks, 54% FG, 57% FT)

81) Maurice Creek- SG (Indiana)- (17 pts, 4 rebs, 3 asts, 1.6 stls, 50% FG, 76% FT, 43% 3P)

82) Brandon Paul- SG (Illinois)- (11 pts, 3 rebs, 2 asts, 41% FG, 70% FT)

83) JuJuan Johnson- PF (Purdue)- (14.1 pts, 6.6 rebs, 1.1 stls, 1.9 blks, 52% FG, 72% FT)

84) Scottie Reynolds- PG (Villanova)- (16.7 pts, 4 rebs, 4 asts, 1.7 stls, 42% FG, 79% FT)

85) Damian Saunders-PF (Duquesne)- (14.3 pts, 13 rebs, 2.5 asts, 3.2 stls, 2.8 blks, 54% FG, 48% FT)

86) Dwayne Collins- PF (Miami)- (12 pts, 8 rebs, 60% FG, 60% FT)

87) Michael Washington- PF (Arkansas)- (12 pts, 5 rebs, 1.6 blks, 52% FG, 71% FT)

88) Rodney Williams- SF (Minnesota)- (7pts, 2 rebs, 1 asts, 1 stls, 1 blks, 60% FG, 63% FT)

89) Chris Singleton-SF (Florida State)- (11.3 pts, 8 rebs, 2.6 asts, 2.3 stls, 1.6 blks, 45% FG, 51% FT)

90) Eric Bledsoe-PG (Kentucky)- (11 pts, 2 rebs, 3 asts, 1.3 stls, 47% FG, 79% FT, 53% 3P)

91) Nic Wise- PG (Arizona)- (16 pts, 5 rebs, 4 asts, 1.4 stls, 42% FG, 95% FT)

92) Raymar Morgan- SF (Michigan State)- (10.4 pts, 6 rebs, 2.2 asts, 1.2 stls, 50% FG, 66% FT)

93) Charles Garcia- PF (Seattle)- (24.6 pts, 10 rebs, 49% FG, 60% FT)

94) John Riek- C (Mississippi State)

95) Durrell Summers- SG (Michigan State)- (10.3 pts, 4.3 rebs, 42% FG, 84% FT)

96) Keion Bell-PG (Pepperdine)- (22.2 pts, 5 rebs, 4.4 asts, 2 stls, 50% FG, 80% FT)

97) Arinze Onuaku- C (Syracuse)- (12 pts, 4 rebs, 1 stls, 1.3 blks, 67% FG, 40% FT)

98) Kevin Thompson-PF (Morgan State)- (13.7 pts, 12.2 rebs, 2 asts, 1.2 blks, 52% FG, 69% FT)

99) James Florence- PG (Mercer)- (23 pts, 3 rebs, 5 asts, 2 stls, 46% FG, 73% FT)

100) Aaric Murray-C (La Salle)- (10.7 pts, 7 rebs, 2.3 blks, 48% FG, 50% FT)