With Dario Saric pulling his name out and after having had a look at Europe’s version of the draft combine, the adidas Eurocamp, here is our 5th take on how we see the draft shaping up less than 3 weeks before draft night.
| 1. |  | Ben McLemore 6-5 190 SG Kansas Fr. | After taking Dion Waiters with the fourth pick last year, going with Noel might fit their team needs better, but if history is any lesson going with their top rated prospect regardless of position is the best recipe for success. This pick will likely come down to who the team values more between McLemore and Noel. And Tristan vs Waiters could also factor in, but Waiters probably would still work in a 6th man role, while Noel and Tristan probably duplicate one another too much. After Nerlens Noel suffered a season ending ACL injury, McLemore became the favorite to be the top pick. But with inconsistent play, culminated by a dreadful tourney performance in which he scored 2 points on 0-9 shooting vs. UNC, McLemore left the door open for Noel to go first even with the ACL injury. McLemore bounced back with a big final game against Michigan, showing off his feathery touch and athletic gifts. He is not a finished product and scouts will nitpick his level of assertiveness and lack of a fiery personality leading up to the draft. But at the end of the day, he’s the guy in this draft with the greatest shot at becoming a superstar. While the feat has not been accomplished (a SG going 1) in 40 years, McLemore is in position to do it. His outside shot is comparable to a perfect golf swing, it’s a thing of beauty. Combine that with freakish athleticism and you have a high level prospect. NBA Comparison: Ray Allen | |
| 2. |  |  | Nerlens Noel 6-11 206 PF Kentucky Fr. | Orlando executed their plan to rebuild quickly by trading away veterans and ending up with the most losses on the year. They got into ideal position with the 2nd pick and will likely take whomever is left over between Noel and McLemore. On the bright side for Noel in sustaining the ACL injury, he no longer had any more games for scouts to nitpick the deficiencies in his skill set. His value to the Wildcats also became abundantly clear as the team languished without him, falling short of the NCAA tournament, dropping 4 of 8 in his absence. Noel’s length, leaping ability and cat-like reflexes make him an extraordinary shot blocker. He shows a willingness to hustle and play hard, which combined with his elite level athleticism is very encouraging. His offensive game, however, is extremely raw and may never be anything more than put back dunks and hook shots. He also needs to get much stronger as his upper body and legs are rail thin, evidenced by his 206 lb combine weight. Granted, added weight could ultimately put even more stress on what appear to be fragile knees. The other real concern is that Noel tore the same ACL that he had torn as a sophomore in high school. After coming back faster than doctors had recommended, some wonder if this recent injury was inevitable and whether there could be structural damage making further injuries to the same knee more likely. Regardless, Noel’s ability to impact the defensive end puts him in the running for the top overall pick and he should land in the top 2, despite not being able to fully work out for teams leading up to the draft. NBA Comparison: Larry Sanders |
| 3. |  |  | Otto Porter 6-9 200 SF Georgetown So. | The Jan Vesely experiment has not worked out leaving the door open to add local guy Otto Porter. Another local product Alex Len is a possibility. Porter made a very impressive jump from his freshman to sophomore seasons, showing no difficulty in becoming the leader of the team and winning Big East Player of the Year. Otto is about as low risk as it gets in this draft, however his ceiling isn’t as great as some of the other top prospects. He’s a relentless defender and a pro athlete, but it’s unlikely that he will ever be an elite level scorer. He’s very thin, but weight/strength shouldn’t be an issue at the 3 position. He showed the ability to knock down key shots throughout his short college career. Despite a less than picture perfect jumpshot, he gets results. Porter’s consistency and potential makes him a likely top 5 pick in this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Tayshaun Prince |
| 4. |  |  | Anthony Bennett 6-7 240 PF UNLV Fr. | Charlotte is probably the team most devoid of talent in the league and Bennett has been talked about as a possible #1 overall pick and gives them the upside they desire. Despite being 6’7, Bennett’s wingspan makes him essentially a 6’9 player and he’s got massive shoulders and hands. Bennett wins the award for most vicious dunks in college as he had numerous dunks that reminded fans of Shaq. He lacks the foot speed to defend on the perimeter, essentially making him a stretch 4. Some scouts have even mentioned him as a potential #1 pick, though that’s probably a reach, considering he’s a tweener and the last 6’9 or under PF to go first was Kenyon Martin. Bennett battled injury problems in high school and appeared to be breaking down some towards the end of the year. His post season shoulder surgery reinforces his reputation for being injury prone and has made it impossible for him to work out for teams leading up to the draft. Without the injury concerns he’d likely be a top 5 pick, with them he could slide a few spots. NBA Comparison: Rodney Rogers |
| 5. |  |  | Alex Len 7-1 255 C Maryland So. | Similar to Charlotte, The Suns really need to swing for the fences with their pick and go for upside and that’s exactly what Len offers. Though he’s been unable to workout for teams, his early season performance dominating both Nerlens Noel and Willie Cauley Stein remains fresh in scout’s minds. Len shows the agility to get up and down the floor, make plays at the rim and the touch to knock down shots from mid range. While some may knock his fluidity, toughness and consistency, bigs take time. For a 20 year old who is still adjusting to American culture, being away from Ukraine where he grew up, his sophomore season was excellent. His stress fracture came at a bad time as teams won’t get the chance to see him work out leading up to the draft, but he doesn’t figure to fall very far. Len is the classic boom or bust pick that teams in the mid lottery will be afraid to take as well as not miss on. NBA Comparison: Jonas Valanciunas |
| 6. |  |  | Trey Burke 6-1 190 PG Michigan So. | New Orleans will hope that Burke can make the same type of impact that his idol Chris Paul made on the city. Burke’s performance against Kansas was legendary, as he refused to allow his team to lose, coming up with all the big plays down the stretch including a game tying 3 in the final seconds. Burke was not only the top PG in the nation this year, he was the best player in the nation. He carried the Wolverines all season with a will to win that was unmatched on the college level. His 6’5 wingspan helps offset his 6’1 frame giving him some additional length to get shots off. On the negative side, Burke lacks elite level speed and athleticism, making it a challenge for him to gain separation on opponents. While detractors may argue that Burke’s attributes will make the transition to the next level difficult, his "immeasurables"; competitiveness, heart and determination are off the charts. NBA Comparison: Kemba Walker |
| 7. |  |  | Cody Zeller 7-0 230 PF/C Indiana So. | A high character guy like Zeller would be a nice addition to Sacramento’s dysfunctional family. Zeller’s stock took the biggest hit during the NCAA tournament as he looked shell shocked in their Sweet Sixteen loss to Syracuse and their 2-3 zone defense. He failed to live up to the preseason hype and much of the time chose to defer instead of taking on the role of the team’s star. It obviously took a toll on his draft stock, but a tremendous combine has him back on track. His 35.5 inch standing jump is the highest recorded for a bigman in years. Zeller shows the ability to knock down mid range shots with regularity and runs the floor like a gazelle, which is rare for a 7-footer. Unfortunately his post game did not advance the way many expected, although big men take the longest to develop. It’s easy to forget all the positives: Zeller is a 7 footer, he’s 19 years old, a hard worker, and similar to Drummond last year, many seem to have overreacted after he failed to live up to the #1 preseason hype. NBA Comparison: LaMarcus Aldridge |
| 8. |  |  | Victor Oladipo 6-4 214 SG/SF Indiana Jr. | It’s possible Oladipo will be long gone by this pick but he would be an ideal addition to a team with a young and talented frontcourt and a solid young PG in place in Brandon Knight. Oladipo is a late bloomer who draws rave reviews for his demeanor and personality from those who have spent time around him. While he may lack superstar potential, he appears to be the ultimate glue type player as an overachiever who brings boundless energy. His explosiveness is off the charts (42 inch vert at combine), particularly off of two feet and his shooting and ball handling have shown surprising improvement. At 6’4 in shoes, he’s undersized, taking his long term potential down a notch. Some wild comparisons such as Dwyane Wade and even Michael Jordan have been thrown out for Oladipo. But those are unfair for a player who projects as a high level role player, but not a star at the next level. NBA Comparison: Tony Allen |
| 9. |  |  | CJ McCollum 6-3 197 PG/SG Lehigh Sr. | CJ would probably be used in a combo role spelling Rubio at times at the point and also shifting off the ball where he has proven to be highly effective. Rubio’s size would help as the team might struggle some defensively while on the floor together, but would be a handful to contain offensively. As a likely first rounder in 2012, some questioned McCollum’s decision to return to campus despite virtually knocking defending champion Duke out of the NCAA tournament single handedly. This year CJ was able to establish himself in many scout’s minds before going down with a season ending broken foot. He’s got a nasty crossover and ISO game, showing a great ability to get defenders on their heels a la Steph Curry, before pulling up for jumpers. There are some concerns surround his ability to play the PG position as well as defend. Despite missing a large portion of the season, McCollum has a real chance to go top 10 and is a sheik pick as the top PG prospect in this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Stephen Curry |
| 10. |  |  | Kentavious Caldwell-Pope 6-6 205 SG Georgia So. | Blazers owner Paul Allen attended a KCP workout, so the interest in him is apparent. He is an underrated athlete with the ability to get to the rack as well as create and knock down shots on the perimeter. He doesn’t blow you away in any one area, but he’s a good shooter and scorer. After a freshman season in which he struggled with efficiency, he was able to improve upon his shooting from the floor and beyond the arch. He’ll get looks in the late lottery and should find a spot somewhere in the first round. NBA Comparison: Michael Redd |
| 11. |  |  | Lucas Nogueira 7-0 220 PF Brazil 1992 | Bebe is on the rise after an outstanding adidas Eurocamp in which he validated his surprising season showing maturity and focus. He dominated the competition showing great mobility, length and energy. Sixers GM Sam Hinkie was in attendance and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Bebe climb up to this spot considering the Sixers need for an athletic defender. Nogueira is extremely raw, but players with his size and agility are rare. He had a breakout performance at the Copa America U18 tournament in 2010 and some NBA scouts came away saying he had top 5 pick potential. He lost most of that hype with a dreadful showing at the 2011 adidas Eurocamp in Treviso, but has a huge bounce back season playing in Spain for Estudiantes. "Bebe" developed a reputation for being soft and lazy, but this season he showed dedication and maturity that had been lacking from his game. For him, it’s just a matter of becoming more aggressive and maintaining his focus. Bebe has proven himself in the ACB, Europe’s best national league and has become our top International prospect for this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Joakim Noah |
| 12. |  |  | Steven Adams 7-0 255 C Pittsburgh Fr. | The pick that OKC landed in the Harden deal isn’t as high as they would have liked but gives them an opportunity to add another piece to a young contender. They will likely draft the player with the most upside here instead of attempting to draft for need, as smart teams do. There are some parallels between Adams and Byron Mullens which could dissuade GM Sam Presti from selecting him, but Adams brings the kind of size, and rebounding potential that the team could use. Adams was a surprise entry as many felt he needed more time in college to develop his feel for the game and post skills. Adams used a very strong draft combine performance, displaying a surprisingly accurate midrange jumper to likely ensure a place in the top 20, and could even snag a late lotto spot. He is a long term project due to his lack of experience and feel for the game but could really develop into a high level center given time and the right situation. NBA Comparison: Meyers Leonard |
| 13. |  |  | Michael Carter-Williams 6-6 185 PG Syracuse So. | The Mavericks could opt to go International and take a stash pick with free agency in mind and a possible run for both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul. But if they decide to keep things more conventional, a player like MCW could solve their long term PG position if he lives up to his potential. Carter-Williams is a true point guard with tremendous size. At 6’6 he reminds some of the high school version of Shawn Livingston that many became so enamored with before his tragic knee injury. Though not quite the talent, MCW’s ability to set teammates up for baskets is special for a player his size. His length, having a near 6’9 wingspan really helps his cause defensively. He has a lot of work to do on his outside shooting and must prove that he can hang with the speed of today’s NBA PGs. He would likely pair well with a small 2-guard like Monta Ellis as he would probably be better suited defending 2 guards while running the point. He’s got some off court baggage (shop lifting incident) that will need to be addressed in interviews with teams. Plus, the track record for Syracuse products has not been great in recent years. He’s another boom or bust pick who could end up a star or not even making it in the league. In a down draft, Carter-Williams has top 10 potential. NBA Comparison: Shaun Livingston |
| 14. |  |  | Shane Larkin 5-11 171 PG Miami So. | Utah is in need of a point guard and have been linked to Larkin and it’s uncertain whether they can wait to get him at the 21st pick. Larkin recorded the highest vertical leap ever at the draft combine with a 44 inch running jump. He was not far behind Trey Burke in terms of being a team leader and floor general on the college level and there are a number of scouts that actually prefer Larkin to Burke as a prospect. Larkin lacks Burke’s resume and size, but shows much better isolation and separation ability off the dribble. As the son of hall of fame shortstop Barry Larkin, Shane has the pedigree to overcome a significant lack of size. NBA Comparison: DJ Augustin |
| 15. |  |  | Kelly Olynyk 7-0 234 C Gonzaga Jr. | With rim protector extraordinaire Larry Sanders already in the fold, Olynyk would be the perfect compliment to their frontcourt as a polished, offensive minded big. He was flying way under the radar before this season, having red shirted last year with Robert Sacre as the team’s starting center. He was arguably the most dominant big in the country and despite Gonzaga’s flame out in the tourney, he was solid. Kelly lacks great athleticism and quickness, but shows the skill set of a 10 year veteran. Olynyk’s ability to defend the pick and roll has led scouts to believe he can make it defensively in the league. He’s got a Euro-style game, but many scouts are convinced that his skill level and size will be enough to overcome a lack of sheer athleticism and become a solid NBA post player. NBA Comparison: Spencer Hawes |
| 16. |  |  | Dennis Schroeder 6-2 168 PG Germany 1993 | Rumors persist that Schroeder has a promise, and our sources have indicated that Boston is the team that has promised him. Obviously the team already has Rondo, but no one is expecting most of the players from this draft to instantly become starters. Schroeder used a tremendous week in Portland at the Hoop Summit in practices and the game to skyrocket up team’s draft boards. He combines elite level quickness with solid decision making. While his season in Germany was just average, he seems to have made real strides recently. His shot was a little inconsistent throughout the week of practices in Portland, but looked very solid in the game. His ability to handle the ball in traffic is impressive. He’s got an extra gear that allows him to get by defenders any time he wants to. He also possesses good size at the PG position at 6-2 with a 6-7 wingspan. After a great Hoop Summit performance, Schroeder has jumped up into late lotto-mid first round area. NBA Comparison: Darren Collison |
| 17. |  |  | Shabazz Muhammad 6-6 225 SF UCLA Fr. | The Hawks are in a nice position with back to back picks and should be able to snag a player that slides on draft night. Credit Shabazz for participating in the Chicago draft combine, unfortunately his sub par shooting did not help his cause. Scouts aren’t sure what he brings a team if he’s asked to be a role player. He’s got the desire but has a lot of skill development left to work on. Shabazz had a rough ending to the season with the report coming out that he’s actually 20 instead of 19 as his father had purported. He also struggled in UCLA’s tourney loss to Minnesota shooting 6-for-18. But he’s still one of the most talented prospects in this year’s draft with a killer instinct and high level scoring ability. He has turned living with Tourette Syndrome into a positive as he plays with a chip on his shoulder exerting a high level of intensity at all times. Detractors point to his less than 1 assist per game, labeling him one dimensional and even a "ball hog". His character and abilities on the court could ultimately be undervalued by the time the draft takes place. NBA Comparison: Nick Young |
| 18. | |  | Mason Plumlee 6-11 238 PF Duke Sr. | With back to back picks the surprise playoff team, Atlanta Hawks address their frontcourt with Mason Plumlee. Plumlee was one of the surprises in college this year, but may slip to the teens due to his case of "senior-itis". Similar to last year with Tyler Zeller, younger prospects with more perceived upside may ultimately push the senior into the second half of the first round. He added some offensive skills around the basket, and played the year with surprising consistency. He is a better version of his brother Miles who somehow landed in the late first round in 2012. While he’s not overly skilled in the post, he shows nice explosiveness, runs the floor well and shows a willingness to fight for rebounds and play tough in the paint. In such a weak draft, Plumlee figures to land in the teens. NBA Comparison: Yi Jianlian |
| 19. |  |  | Tony Snell 6-7 198 SF New Mexico Jr. | Following their #1 overall pick, the Cavs can add a position of need here with a SF like Snell. Snell is a player that has been steadily moving up team’s boards since declaring for the draft. He had better than expected athleticism numbers at the draft combine and shows excellent ability to knock down outside shots as well as find open looks off the dribble. He’s an unselfish player with upside left to develop and just needs to work on his level of intensity and consistency. NBA Comparison: Wesley Person |
| 20. |  |  | Tony Mitchell 2586 6-9 236 SF/PF North Texas So. | With Carlos Boozer’s status uncertain in the future, the team could be shifting to having Taj Gibson take over at the PF position. Mitchell would offer nice insurance and depth behind him at the 4 position with the versatility to play some 3 as well. He surprised many by returning to North Texas for his sophomore year and was unable to enhance his draft stock. Mitchell put up essentially the same numbers as in his FR season and fell from his lofty preseason projections. He is a unique player as he combines freakish length (7-foot-3 wingspan) and explosiveness. He seems to be convinced that he’s a 3, and despite his chiseled physique, apparently does not enjoy battling in the paint. NBA Comparison: Thomas Robinson |
| 21. | |  | Rudy Gobert 7-2 238 C France 1992 | After going really small taking Larkin at 14, the Jazz go really long with Rudy Gobert adding more depth to a young and talented frontcourt. Gobert struggled some at the draft combine as he looked mechanical and slow running the floor. On the bight side, he has ridiculous length with a 7-foot-9 wingspan. He also possesses good shooting touch and appears to have a body that will allow him to add strength and eventually battle in the paint in the NBA.He struggled to put up consistent numbers in the French League. So the question is whether teams will be willing to look past the lack of productivity and draft him on potential. His mobility and athleticism are average by NBA standards and he still needs to get tougher and develop a better feel for the game. The concern with Gobert is whether he has the speed and agility in an NBA where quickness often trumps size. NBA Comparison: Shawn Bradley |
| 22. |  |  | Giannis Adetokoubo 6-9 205 SF/PF Greece 1994 | The Nets have been very active in free agency in an effort to contend and be competitive in their new arena. The only problem is they now have little wiggle room under their cap and find themselves an aging team with Joe Johnson and Deron Williams approaching the end of their prime. Adetokoubo would bring them a nice piece for the future as well as a player to leave in Europe and keep off their books for a few seasons. After watching Adetokoubo in Jesolo, Italy in early June, it’s apparent that he needs a lot of time (3 seasons or so) before he’ll be ready to play in the NBA. He’s very skilled and long, but lacks strength and explosiveness at this point. The problem for him and scouts is that the level of competition that he’s played at at is very low, considered by scouts as the equivalent to Div 2-3 college ball, making it more difficult to project him. He’ll also need to improve upon his shooting ability. NBA Comparison: DerMarr Johnson |
| 23. |  |  | Tim Hardaway Jr 6-6 200 SG Michigan Jr. | The Pacers are in pretty good shape at all positions and with Paul George and Lance Stephenson’s emergence aren’t in need of a young wing, but Hardaway would add depth and shooting on the perimeter. Hardaway Jr. shows mental toughness and consistent effort at all times. He has a well developed offensive game with good elevation and form on his shot. The big knock on him has always been foot speed as he lacks a great first step to beat opponents off the dribble. He grew up around the game, and that is apparent with his focus and feel. Hardaway lacks great upside and is seen as a likely rotation player, but his toughness and professional approach gives him a After a strong combine, his first round chances continue to improve. NBA Comparison: Shandon Anderson |
| 24. |  |  | Gorgui Dieng 6-11 230 PF/C Louisville Jr. | Dieng would help add depth to an aging frontcourt with Tyson Chandler and Amare Stoudemire who battled through injuries all year. Dieng benefited from Louisville’s deep tourney run, as he was able to display the ability to consistently knock down mid range shots. While not a speed burner, he shows good defensive abilities, particularly in blocking shots. Dieng missed a portion of the year with a fractured wrist, but his return coincided with the team’s resurgence as he anchored Louisville’s interior defense. His condor like 7’3.5 wingspan makes him a formidable obstacle around the basket. NBA Comparison: Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje |
| 25. |  |  | Allen Crabbe 6-6 197 SG California Jr. | The Clips could use some additional firepower off the bench and Crabbe has nice scoring ability. The Pac 12 player of the year, Crabbe has a sweet outside shooting stroke and solid athleticism. He also possesses good size for the 2-guard position. The biggest knock against him has been his toughness, level of intensity and consistency. He had a solid finish to the year, leading Cal into the second round of the tourney, but it seems that he’s a player that needs a push (or shove) to motivate him. He’s not considered a self starter, so landing in the right situation and having coaches and people around him that will facilitate his development will be key. Crabbe didn’t always display the best body language and showing that he’s a team player with a positive attitude in will be paramount. He’ll need to do well in individual match ups in team workouts in order to convince scouts that he’s a legitimate first rounder for this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Francisco Garcia |
| 26. | |  | Sergey Karasev 6-7 197 SG/SF Russia 1993 | Karasev would be a nice addition for the T-Wolves at 26 to eventually join Minnesota’s Russian duo (AK47 and Shved). He decided to stay in Russia up until the draft, instead of doing workouts or participating at the Eurocamp fueling speculation that he has a promise. Already has Olympic experience playing for the Russian National team in London. Karasev did not have a great Hoop Summit shooting just 1-6 from distance, (3-10 overall for 7 pts) but his outside shooting impressed scouts all week and he had a breakout season playing in Russia, as the top player on his team. He lacks great speed and may struggle defensively with slow feet, but he’s a decent athlete and shows some ability to get to the basket off the dribble as he did against top defender Rondae Hollis-Jefferson early on in the Hoop Summit. His jump shot, while a bit unorthodox is his biggest strength and should have him in position to grab a late first round spot. His English is good, and he seems to have the type of personality that will allow him to adjust to American culture without much of an issue. NBA Comparison: Danny Green |
| 27. |  |  | Livio Jean-Charles 6-9 217 SF/PF France 1993 | Denver is in solid shape with depth at each position and may look for a player to leave in Europe for a season or two. Livio was another big winner from this year’s Hoop Summit leading all scorers and rebounders with 27 and 13. His season playing in France was modest but he’s shown a strong motor and brings great energy to the floor. While he may not have the resume of some of the potential NCAA prospects projected in the late first, his ability to stay in Europe adds intrigue and could push him over the top in landing one of the last 5 spots in the first round. NBA Comparison: Cliff Robinson |
| 28. |  |  | Reggie Bullock 6-7 200 SG North Carolina Jr. | The Spurs have discovered the fountain of youth with Tim Duncan still playing at an elite level late in his 30s. Bullock would offer the team another weapon off the bench as a shooter. Bullock has been a name on the rise throughout the draft/workout process as he has one elite level skill and that’s shooting the ball. He’s got prototypical size for the shooting guard position and three years playing in the ACC gives him excellent experience. The one concern scouts have is his inability or unwillingness to attack the rim. NBA Comparison: Calbert Chaney |
| 29. | |  | Nate Wolters 6-5 196 PG North Dakota Sr. | Reggie Jackson has begun to emerge as Westbrook’s back up with some solid performances in the playoffs. Wolters would add more depth and be able to push Jackson in the backcourt. Showing great creativity and a flare for the dramatic, Wolters is a flashy lead guard who some scouts are extremely high on. He is solid athletically but lacks elite quickness off the dribble and needs to improve upon his outside shooting. Wolters struggled some in the tournament matching up with Michigan’s Trey Burke although neither guard had a great shooting performance. Wolters was 4th in the nation in scoring and had the single greatest scoring output of the past 3 seasons dropping 53 points against IPFW. NBA Comparison: Goran Dragic |
| 30. | |  | Jamaal Franklin 6-5 191 SG/SF San Diego St. Jr. | The Suns take a somewhat local guy as SD and PHX are a hop and a skip away, and Franklin offers energy and athleticism to a team in need of talent. Franklin is a bit of a 2/3 tweener, showing better ability to slash and affect the game with his athleticism than smooth guard skills, but he competes hard. Some concerns linger about character and attitude after an incident flipping off a fan and/or referee putting him on the first round bubble. NBA Comparison: Will Barton |
Bennett
Bennett to Charlotte is the most stupid pick any team would make this year. WE NEED BIGS. We have undersized post players.
“most stupid” lol….the
“most stupid” lol….the irony
How
How does it feel to always know you are the smartest guy in the room? Ironic maybe?
Bennett
Bennett to Charlotte is the most stupid pick any team would make this year. WE NEED BIGS. We have undersized post players.
“most stupid” lol….the
“most stupid” lol….the irony
How
How does it feel to always know you are the smartest guy in the room? Ironic maybe?
Bennett to Charlotte?
Like TripleDoubleScout said, Bobcats ( future Hornets ?) need a real CENTER in his roster ; IMO they connot bring a free agent C in Charlotte and Biyombo will be better in PF position… LEN ( in 2 or 3 years ) or ZELLER ( just today ) are very good fits for Jordan’s team !
Bennett to Charlotte?
Like TripleDoubleScout said, Bobcats ( future Hornets ?) need a real CENTER in his roster ; IMO they connot bring a free agent C in Charlotte and Biyombo will be better in PF position… LEN ( in 2 or 3 years ) or ZELLER ( just today ) are very good fits for Jordan’s team !
I would sooooo love for
I would sooooo love for Oladipo to fall to my Pistons at #8. It would probably take a miracle though.
I would sooooo love for
I would sooooo love for Oladipo to fall to my Pistons at #8. It would probably take a miracle though.
Phoenix and San Diego are
Phoenix and San Diego are over 350 miles apart…not exactly a hop, skip and a jump.
If I am the Sixers I would take Adams over Nogueira. I don’t know much about Lucas but I am not usually convinced by these late rising international prospects. Jan Vesely and Bismack Biyombo come to my mind. I know Adams is a project as well but I would trust him more than Nogueira.
It seems to me like there is a slight drop off after the top 10. There are players that won’t go top 10 that I really like such as Larkin and Franklin but as for the Sixers picking 11th to me it looks like they are one spot too low in this draft.
Agreed
I’m with you on this. If your a team outside of the top 10 but picking before 20, you should be trading down. I think this draft is full of role players (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing) but role players are more beneficial to teams like the Spurs/Bulls/Heat. Teams like Philly/Milwaukee/Portland should look at making a move to gather multiple later round picks where guys like Withey/Dieng/Plumlee are available, guys who have at least adjusted to the pace of AMERICAN basketball. Like you said, guys like Biyombo/Vesley/Kanter always end up rising right before the draft, and it KILLS teams that need proven talent NOW. This is why the top tier teams remain at the top, they have the ability to store the “potential” guys at the end of their roster, all while drafting “role players” in later rounds. The NBA is the ONLY league that drafts on potential first, and ability later, the teams that understand that are that teams that continue to win.
Phoenix and San Diego are
Phoenix and San Diego are over 350 miles apart…not exactly a hop, skip and a jump.
If I am the Sixers I would take Adams over Nogueira. I don’t know much about Lucas but I am not usually convinced by these late rising international prospects. Jan Vesely and Bismack Biyombo come to my mind. I know Adams is a project as well but I would trust him more than Nogueira.
It seems to me like there is a slight drop off after the top 10. There are players that won’t go top 10 that I really like such as Larkin and Franklin but as for the Sixers picking 11th to me it looks like they are one spot too low in this draft.
Agreed
I’m with you on this. If your a team outside of the top 10 but picking before 20, you should be trading down. I think this draft is full of role players (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing) but role players are more beneficial to teams like the Spurs/Bulls/Heat. Teams like Philly/Milwaukee/Portland should look at making a move to gather multiple later round picks where guys like Withey/Dieng/Plumlee are available, guys who have at least adjusted to the pace of AMERICAN basketball. Like you said, guys like Biyombo/Vesley/Kanter always end up rising right before the draft, and it KILLS teams that need proven talent NOW. This is why the top tier teams remain at the top, they have the ability to store the “potential” guys at the end of their roster, all while drafting “role players” in later rounds. The NBA is the ONLY league that drafts on potential first, and ability later, the teams that understand that are that teams that continue to win.
Um not to nitpick
I mean unless all articles chose not to include it, everything reported only talks about a broken growth plate in his left leg. Nothing was said about a torn ACL in his left leg in high school.
Um not to nitpick
I mean unless all articles chose not to include it, everything reported only talks about a broken growth plate in his left leg. Nothing was said about a torn ACL in his left leg in high school.
hasnt been a sg picked #1 in
hasnt been a sg picked #1 in 40 years? um… allen iverson in 1996 was a SG #1 overall pick.
He was drafted as a PG and
He was drafted as a PG and played his first couple seasons at the point in Philly. His first season he averaged 7.5 APG which was the 2nd highest average of his 14 year career. Once Eric Snow came in and played the point Iverson moved to SG and began to lead the league in scoring.
I still believe Iverson could have been a great PG but the Sixers never gave him anyone to play with and pass to. He could have averaged over 8 APG easily if he had some better shooting around him instead of players like Matt Harpring and George Lynch. When the Sixers made the Finals in 2001 AI averaged only 4.6 APG which was a career low.
Indeed. Iverson played PG and
Indeed. Iverson played PG and Stackhouse was 2guard and later aaron mckie. Iverson also played PG at georgetown, too.
hasnt been a sg picked #1 in
hasnt been a sg picked #1 in 40 years? um… allen iverson in 1996 was a SG #1 overall pick.
He was drafted as a PG and
He was drafted as a PG and played his first couple seasons at the point in Philly. His first season he averaged 7.5 APG which was the 2nd highest average of his 14 year career. Once Eric Snow came in and played the point Iverson moved to SG and began to lead the league in scoring.
I still believe Iverson could have been a great PG but the Sixers never gave him anyone to play with and pass to. He could have averaged over 8 APG easily if he had some better shooting around him instead of players like Matt Harpring and George Lynch. When the Sixers made the Finals in 2001 AI averaged only 4.6 APG which was a career low.
Indeed. Iverson played PG and
Indeed. Iverson played PG and Stackhouse was 2guard and later aaron mckie. Iverson also played PG at georgetown, too.
Lucas Nogueira????? That
Lucas Nogueira????? That would be a terrible pick
Lucas Nogueira????? That
Lucas Nogueira????? That would be a terrible pick
Bulls taking Tony Mitchell?
I have to point out that since the John Paxson/Gar Forman era, which started just before the amazing 2003 draft, that the Bulls are drawn to players from big time programs that advance far in the NCAA tournament.
Here is just a sample, with of course trades factored in from draft day like Deng and Tyrus Thomas:
2012 1st Round Pick 29 Marquis Teague Kentucky
2011 1st Round Pick 30 Jimmy Butler Marquette
2009 1st Round Pick 16 James Johnson Wake Forest
2009 1st Round Pick 26 Taj Gibson USC
2008 1st Round Pick 1 Derrick Rose Memphis
2007 1st Round Pick 9 Joakim Noah Florida
2007 2nd Round Pick 49 Aaron Gray Pitt
2006 1st Round Pick 4 Tyrus Thomas LSU
2004 1st Round Pick 7 Luol Deng Duke
2004 1st Round Pick 3 Ben Gordon UConn
2004 2nd Round Pick 38 Chris Duhon Duke
2003 1st Round Pick 7 Kirk Hinrich Kansas
That’s just a sampling, but as you can see there are all players that make up the Bulls “core” on there over the past decade that have advanced in the NCAA tournament, many getting past the Sweet 16 and even more still either winning or getting to the Championship game. Heck, you can even throw Boozer in there, even though he was a free agent he brings that “Winning Pedigree” with him (unfortunately I am not joking). I also am excluding the international guys like Omer Asik and Nikola Mirotic. I would also like to point out that the two major recent mistakes are James Johnson and Tyrus Thomas and the Bulls DID turn those 2 guys around into Mirotic and (most likely) a Top 5 pick in the 2016 draft from Charlotte. Now, I know the Bulls DID use a 7th Round pick in 1968 on Willie Davis and HE was from North Texas but they do things different now. I don’t think that Tony Mitchell is going to be the guy to buck that trend. As much as I hate to say it, because it is not a very sexy pick, if the Bulls stay at #20 ONLY I think they take Dieng. 3 reasons. First of all, they need a backup center and they have no cap space to get anyone of value on the free agent market unless they stay with Nazr for another year (which could happen even if they draft Dieng). Secondly, he was on the team that won the NCAA tournament and there is definitely a trend shown above that the Bulls value that. Thirdly, the Bulls REALLY want to have a Deng AND a Dieng on the same team.
Anyway, I don’t see them taking Tony Mitchell, who underperformed at a small school like North Texas.
If the Bulls go with a shooting guard…
…AND of course stay at #20 I can see them take Tim Hardaway, JR. He fits the criteria I mentioned above in that he was a key contributor on a team that made it all the way to the NCAA Championship game. He does bring a skill set that the Bulls should be focusing on in that scoring is there only real glaring weakness. Also, Derrick Rose’s fiancee and father of his child is the niece of Tim Hardaway. There is a family connection to their franchise player. God, Derrick Rose’s son has the bloodlines to play PG in the NBA if I have ever heard of one.
Bulls
Yeah, the Bulls have tried the amazing athlete (don’t forget Johnson’s martial arts skills too!) but they can’t gamble on a raw athlete/project. They need someone to stick because they don’t have financial flexibility. That’s their m.o. normally, but especially so now. With that in mind, the Bulls likely will go with a shooter or a defensive-minded big. That means the list is short: Karasev, Crabbe, Bullock, Hardaway, Snell, Dieng, Withey. I’d lean towards Bullock right now.
I agree…
…that the Bulls will go with a shooting guard or defensive big (are there really any other options for “bigs” than defensive minded at #20?). I think that Dieng and Hardaway Jr. are the front runners for their respective positions.
Bigs at 20
Yeah, Olynyk and Mitchell if you want to consider him a PF.
Bulls taking Tony Mitchell?
I have to point out that since the John Paxson/Gar Forman era, which started just before the amazing 2003 draft, that the Bulls are drawn to players from big time programs that advance far in the NCAA tournament.
Here is just a sample, with of course trades factored in from draft day like Deng and Tyrus Thomas:
2012 1st Round Pick 29 Marquis Teague Kentucky
2011 1st Round Pick 30 Jimmy Butler Marquette
2009 1st Round Pick 16 James Johnson Wake Forest
2009 1st Round Pick 26 Taj Gibson USC
2008 1st Round Pick 1 Derrick Rose Memphis
2007 1st Round Pick 9 Joakim Noah Florida
2007 2nd Round Pick 49 Aaron Gray Pitt
2006 1st Round Pick 4 Tyrus Thomas LSU
2004 1st Round Pick 7 Luol Deng Duke
2004 1st Round Pick 3 Ben Gordon UConn
2004 2nd Round Pick 38 Chris Duhon Duke
2003 1st Round Pick 7 Kirk Hinrich Kansas
That’s just a sampling, but as you can see there are all players that make up the Bulls “core” on there over the past decade that have advanced in the NCAA tournament, many getting past the Sweet 16 and even more still either winning or getting to the Championship game. Heck, you can even throw Boozer in there, even though he was a free agent he brings that “Winning Pedigree” with him (unfortunately I am not joking). I also am excluding the international guys like Omer Asik and Nikola Mirotic. I would also like to point out that the two major recent mistakes are James Johnson and Tyrus Thomas and the Bulls DID turn those 2 guys around into Mirotic and (most likely) a Top 5 pick in the 2016 draft from Charlotte. Now, I know the Bulls DID use a 7th Round pick in 1968 on Willie Davis and HE was from North Texas but they do things different now. I don’t think that Tony Mitchell is going to be the guy to buck that trend. As much as I hate to say it, because it is not a very sexy pick, if the Bulls stay at #20 ONLY I think they take Dieng. 3 reasons. First of all, they need a backup center and they have no cap space to get anyone of value on the free agent market unless they stay with Nazr for another year (which could happen even if they draft Dieng). Secondly, he was on the team that won the NCAA tournament and there is definitely a trend shown above that the Bulls value that. Thirdly, the Bulls REALLY want to have a Deng AND a Dieng on the same team.
Anyway, I don’t see them taking Tony Mitchell, who underperformed at a small school like North Texas.
If the Bulls go with a shooting guard…
…AND of course stay at #20 I can see them take Tim Hardaway, JR. He fits the criteria I mentioned above in that he was a key contributor on a team that made it all the way to the NCAA Championship game. He does bring a skill set that the Bulls should be focusing on in that scoring is there only real glaring weakness. Also, Derrick Rose’s fiancee and father of his child is the niece of Tim Hardaway. There is a family connection to their franchise player. God, Derrick Rose’s son has the bloodlines to play PG in the NBA if I have ever heard of one.
Bulls
Yeah, the Bulls have tried the amazing athlete (don’t forget Johnson’s martial arts skills too!) but they can’t gamble on a raw athlete/project. They need someone to stick because they don’t have financial flexibility. That’s their m.o. normally, but especially so now. With that in mind, the Bulls likely will go with a shooter or a defensive-minded big. That means the list is short: Karasev, Crabbe, Bullock, Hardaway, Snell, Dieng, Withey. I’d lean towards Bullock right now.
I agree…
…that the Bulls will go with a shooting guard or defensive big (are there really any other options for “bigs” than defensive minded at #20?). I think that Dieng and Hardaway Jr. are the front runners for their respective positions.
Bigs at 20
Yeah, Olynyk and Mitchell if you want to consider him a PF.
okc
nate wolters in the 1st round? that just doesn’t make sense.
okc
nate wolters in the 1st round? that just doesn’t make sense.
MAJOR PROBLEMS!
This draft is a horrible projection! I agree with the first pick, but it almost stops there. But after that it gets worse. First off the Magic will not chose Nerlens Noel, most likely they will draft a guard, maybe Victor Oladipo, or Trey Burke. Then there is the Wizards, they will not chose Otto Porter (as much as I like the fit) because John Wall asked for a pick-and-pop playe, maybe Cody Zeller, Alex Len, or Anthony Bennett. The Bobcats need to get a big man: Cody Zeller or Alex Len (same as WIzards). The Suns will choose either Victor Oladipo, Otto Porter, or Anthony Bennett. I also believe that the Pistons will chose Giannis Adetokoubo or a PG. And the List continues. This is the worst draft I have seen so far.
Just saying but I was correct
Just saying but I was correct about all BUT two of the projections. You only had 4 correct. I went 3 of 5, you went 4 of 30 and yet I have -2 points. And I stand corrected that this is the worst draft I have ever seen.
MAJOR PROBLEMS!
This draft is a horrible projection! I agree with the first pick, but it almost stops there. But after that it gets worse. First off the Magic will not chose Nerlens Noel, most likely they will draft a guard, maybe Victor Oladipo, or Trey Burke. Then there is the Wizards, they will not chose Otto Porter (as much as I like the fit) because John Wall asked for a pick-and-pop playe, maybe Cody Zeller, Alex Len, or Anthony Bennett. The Bobcats need to get a big man: Cody Zeller or Alex Len (same as WIzards). The Suns will choose either Victor Oladipo, Otto Porter, or Anthony Bennett. I also believe that the Pistons will chose Giannis Adetokoubo or a PG. And the List continues. This is the worst draft I have seen so far.
Just saying but I was correct
Just saying but I was correct about all BUT two of the projections. You only had 4 correct. I went 3 of 5, you went 4 of 30 and yet I have -2 points. And I stand corrected that this is the worst draft I have ever seen.
Not sure where you are
Not sure where you are getting that Ben has become favorite especially after Chad Ford did interviews and found out that Noel is not only the favorite but Ben has dropped due to too much niceness
Not sure where you are
Not sure where you are getting that Ben has become favorite especially after Chad Ford did interviews and found out that Noel is not only the favorite but Ben has dropped due to too much niceness
Charlotte
if i was Charlotte’z GM i would draft Alex Len… if not would trade down 2 acquire more picks ( maybe ATLz 17 & 18 pickz and or a future 1st rounder)
Charlotte
if i was Charlotte’z GM i would draft Alex Len… if not would trade down 2 acquire more picks ( maybe ATLz 17 & 18 pickz and or a future 1st rounder)
Pelicans
As long as the pelicans land either Alex Len or Trey Burke I’d be happy
Pelicans
As long as the pelicans land either Alex Len or Trey Burke I’d be happy