The Unofficial NBA Draft Thread

[KSB2424 3,148]

For some reason I follow the NBA draft year round. It's a weird fascination of mine and I'm not sure why. But anyway, I know there are some basketball junkies out there so since the draft is tommorrow, I figured we needed a thread. Consensus is this draft is weak at the top (save Griffin), but deep.

 

Lottery

1. Clippers

2. Memphis

3. Oak City

4. Sacramento

5. Minnesota

6. Minnesota

7. Golden State

8. Knicks

9. Toronto

10. Bucks

11. NJ Nets

12. Charlotte

13. Pacers

14. Suns

 

Boston: Pick 58

Lakers: Pick 29, 59

Detroit: Pick 15, 35, 39, 44

Cavs: Pick 30, 46

Sixers: Pick 17

[Snoopy1 0]

Let Jordan Hill fall to 10...let Jordan Hill fall to 10....let Jordan Hill fall to 10....

[KSB2424 3,148]

Couple point of interest (to me at least)

 

- Hansbrough has been climbing up the draft boards. He measuered out the same size as Blake Griffin at the workouts and actually did much better than anticipated at the timed drills. He could possibly go lottery now, and is expected to go no lower than #20 to Utah.

 

- Interesting to see how high Brandon Jennings goes. He was the guy that instead of going to college went to Europe for a year and got paid. If he still goes real high this may open the door for other High School guys to follow that path intstead of the one and done thing in college.

 

- This draft is very point guard heavy. There are over 10 high quality PG's in this class. Prolly the only real good thing about this draft. If your NBA team is looking for help at the PG postion you are in luck.

 

Since my local and favorite team is the Bobcats (don't laugh) I'll break them down. The only true SG/SF they have on the roster is Raja Bell and Gerald Wallace. That team needs quality depth at the wing postion to spell those guys. It appears Gerald Henderson, Terrance Williams, and Earl Clark are in the running. Even though I am a Tar Heel guy, I think Henderthug fits the bill the closest. Athletic 6'5" guy that can defend (Larry Brown trait). His jumper is less than desirable but is not terrible and can be developed. I'm hoping for Henderson.

[FeelingMN 273]

There's talk of the Wolves moving up to get Rubio and/or Thabeet. If they do that, I may well go another year without watching any Wolves games. If they just keep their picks, they could end up with some combination of Evans, Curry, Holiday, Harden. They need solid guard play/consistent outside shooting to pair up with Jefferson and Love in the post.

[Snoopy1 0]

Couple point of interest (to me at least)

 

- Hansbrough has been climbing up the draft boards. He measuered out the same size as Blake Griffin at the workouts and actually did much better than anticipated at the timed drills. He could possibly go lottery now, and is expected to go no lower than #20 to Utah.

 

 

I keep flip-flopping on Hansbrough. Some days I think he'd make a great addition to Bucks(who may or may not need a PF), hustles and probably could be a real consistent 10-12 point scorer with 8-10 boards a game. 10 might be too high, but if they could drop 6 to 8 picks that would work. Other times his lack of athletism scares me and with Bogut that would be too guys who more bangers than jump out of the gym guys.

 

If used correctly with realistic expectations though, he could be a heck of a role player for the right team.

[MicktheGreat 1]

There's talk of the Wolves moving up to get Rubio and/or Thabeet. If they do that, I may well go another year without watching any Wolves games. If they just keep their picks, they could end up with some combination of Evans, Curry, Holiday, Harden. They need solid guard play/consistent outside shooting to pair up with Jefferson and Love in the post.

As a Grizzlies fan, I'm actually hoping that they stay put and draft Thabeet. The Grizz already have some scorers in O.J. Mayo and Rudy Gay (though they need to improve their shot selection), but they really need some defensive presence in the front-court. I think Marc Gasol will continue to develop nicely underneath, but he's more of a offensive threat than a defensive presence.

 

However, from what I've heard, the Grizzlies might like to trade down to the T-Wolves's pick (and draft Jordan Hill) and pick up an extra pick from the T-Wolves (probably #18). Since the Grizzlies lack some depth, I wouldn't be surprised at all if that happens -- and even though the T-Wolves would be giving up two top-20 picks, they'd still have 2 first-rounders, I think.

 

[listen2me 23 1,825]

I keep flip-flopping on Hansbrough. Some days I think he'd make a great addition to Bucks(who may or may not need a PF), hustles and probably could be a real consistent 10-12 point scorer with 8-10 boards a game. 10 might be too high, but if they could drop 6 to 8 picks that would work. Other times his lack of athletism scares me and with Bogut that would be too guys who more bangers than jump out of the gym guys.

 

If used correctly with realistic expectations though, he could be a heck of a role player for the right team.

 

I love him in the mid 1st round range. Anywhere from 12-16. He has a low ceiling, but I would bet a lot on him being a very good role player. In the crap shoot that is the NBA draft, an automatic hustle, do anything you want, hard working "bigger" man that has a decent jump shot is worth it. He won't be a team changer by any means, but a Leon Powe in my mind, who can start if someone is injured or play solid minutes and give the team an uplift.

 

Overall this draft is blah to me. I will be rooting for the Carolina guys to go somewhere they can excel.

 

Watch out for my boy Lester Hudson in the 2nd round. Go look up his stats and his story. Of course he played in a lesser conf. at Tenn-Martin, but the kid has natural skills. 2 years ago he had a Quad-double. I think he would be a good fit for a playoff team like the Celtics or maybe Magic if they let Rafer go. He is a 1-2 gaurd. Some think he has the ability to be a PG and he fits that size, but he is a natural scorer. It will be interesting to see how his small school game translates to the NBA.

[RicemanX 20]

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story...mp;sportCat=nba

 

Great article about how Blake Griffin should run as far as possible AWAY from the Clippers.

[FeelingMN 273]

As a Grizzlies fan, I'm actually hoping that they stay put and draft Thabeet. The Grizz already have some scorers in O.J. Mayo and Rudy Gay (though they need to improve their shot selection), but they really need some defensive presence in the front-court. I think Marc Gasol will continue to develop nicely underneath, but he's more of a offensive threat than a defensive presence.

 

However, from what I've heard, the Grizzlies might like to trade down to the T-Wolves's pick (and draft Jordan Hill) and pick up an extra pick from the T-Wolves (probably #18). Since the Grizzlies lack some depth, I wouldn't be surprised at all if that happens -- and even though the T-Wolves would be giving up two top-20 picks, they'd still have 2 first-rounders, I think.

 

 

I really hope Memphis stays put and drafts Thabeet. If the Wolves do move up, they'll get Rubio then follow with either Harden or Curry at 6. They'd still have another pick, #27 I think, and could take a flier on another European or raw talent project.

 

If the Wolves finish inside the top 10 picks for next year's draft, I think they'll have two top 10 picks. So I don't think they're too intent on improving all that much this year, which is kinda bullsh!t when you think of it.

[KSB2424 3,148]

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story...mp;sportCat=nba

 

Great article about how Blake Griffin should run as far as possible AWAY from the Clippers.

I think it was Wilbon that made a good point. Forget NYC. LeBron says he wants a big market and should come to L.A. the LA Clippers that is. Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, and LeBron.

[Me_2006 14]

I'm pumped for the draft. Even in a meh year, I just love the NBA draft for some reason. I think Flynn and Jennings could end up being the 2nd and 3rd best players in the draft. They may be small, but in the right situation their speed, talent, and explosiveness could be huge in today's NBA. I think if Jennings had been eligible at Arizona, we'd be talking about him as the clear #1 PG in this draft. He is a freak athletically. Great jumper. Lefty. A bit wild and such at times but Europe really helped him slow down and run a half court offense. He's thin, but without the handchecking rule, his speed will be a huge weapon.

 

 

also, 2010=the year of John Wall.

[RicemanX 20]

I'm pumped for the draft. Even in a meh year, I just love the NBA draft for some reason. I think Flynn and Jennings could end up being the 2nd and 3rd best players in the draft. They may be small, but in the right situation their speed, talent, and explosiveness could be huge in today's NBA. I think if Jennings had been eligible at Arizona, we'd be talking about him as the clear #1 PG in this draft. He is a freak athletically. Great jumper. Lefty. A bit wild and such at times but Europe really helped him slow down and run a half court offense. He's thin, but without the handchecking rule, his speed will be a huge weapon.

also, 2010=the year of John Wall.

Its damn hard to choose who will be the 2nd and 3rd best players out of this draft. I feel like picks 2-11 all have the chance of being damn great players.

 

But if I had to choose my 2...

Curry and Flynn.

 

I WANT to pick Jordan Hill, but I just don't like undersized PFs...never liked them

[Me_2006 14]

Its damn hard to choose who will be the 2nd and 3rd best players out of this draft. I feel like picks 2-11 all have the chance of being damn great players.

 

But if I had to choose my 2...

Curry and Flynn.

 

I WANT to pick Jordan Hill, but I just don't like undersized PFs...never liked them

You're a Warriors guy, right?

 

 

You've got Brandan Wright and Randolph, you don't really need another 6'10'' long athletic guy. You need a true PG so you can move Monta to the 2 where he's more comfortable. I think with the system you guys play, Flynn and Jennings would be PERFECT.

 

but just for the record, Hill isn't really undersized. He's a legit 6'10'' + with great length and athleticism.

 

 

I think if you guys stay healthy, and Biedrins can refine the post offense a little bit, you'll push for the 5-8 spot in the West next season.

[KSB2424 3,148]

Why so much hype with Flynn? I saw him play last year but I'm not THAT impressed with the guy. IMO Lawson and Teague will be better pro's.

[RicemanX 20]

You're a Warriors guy, right?

You've got Brandan Wright and Randolph, you don't really need another 6'10'' long athletic guy. You need a true PG so you can move Monta to the 2 where he's more comfortable. I think with the system you guys play, Flynn and Jennings would be PERFECT.

 

but just for the record, Hill isn't really undersized. He's a legit 6'10'' + with great length and athleticism.

I think if you guys stay healthy, and Biedrins can refine the post offense a little bit, you'll push for the 5-8 spot in the West next season.

Yea, I wasnt saying Hill for the Warriors. I meant Hill for the 2nd or 3rd best player out of the draft.

 

I personally wouldn't mind Curry, Jrue, Flynn or Jennings. Any point guard would work for me. OR trading away that pick and a few of our young guys for Amare...I'd dig that too.

[GettnHuge 2]

maybe the Celtics will trade their 2nd round pick for Dwight Howard

[Me_2006 14]

Yea, I wasnt saying Hill for the Warriors. I meant Hill for the 2nd or 3rd best player out of the draft.

 

I personally wouldn't mind Curry, Jrue, Flynn or Jennings. Any point guard would work for me. OR trading away that pick and a few of our young guys for Amare...I'd dig that too.

Yeah, reading comprehension isn't my strong suit apparently. My bad.

 

 

and I think Jrue Holliday may be the biggest bust of the draft, potentially. He keeps getting hyped but I've watched him since HS and he doesn't do much for me. Curry is gonna be a good one, in my opinion but he's too much like Ellis for you guys. I think Jennings is the pick. Plus, who else can rock the hi-top fade and still be that quick?

[RicemanX 20]

maybe the Celtics will trade their 2nd round pick for Dwight Howard

Or maybe they'll trade away their only shot at a future in Rondo for some old dudes and try for the championship for one more season and then rebuild for the next 5

[KSB2424 3,148]

Yo Ricey!@#!

 

NBA front-office sources say that the Warriors and Hawks will soon complete a deal sending Crawford to Atlanta for Acie Law and Speedy Claxton.

 

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4284512

 

No PG needed.

[Big Blue 06 195]

All I know is that whoever the Knicks draft is doomed, as he will be a NY Knick.v

[remote controller 143]

Rondo will likely be gone when this is over.

[CantTouchThis 23]

Anyone else think Rubio is going to be a bust? I don't know, i look at the kid and he just looks like he will be a bust. Those Euro guys usually have good talent, but are too soft to play in the NBA. It would be funny if the clippers do that trade with OKC, get Rubio and he is a bum.

[RicemanX 20]

Yo Ricey!@#!

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4284512

 

No PG needed.

If those 2 get 1 minute of playing time on the Warriors, I'd be surprised. This was purely a salary dump for 2010.

[TAS 2]

Shaq's a Cav!

[kutulu 1,659]

Shaq's a Cav!

 

Is James a free agent this year? Will that move keep him in CLEV?

[TAS 2]

Is James a free agent this year? Will that move keep him in CLEV?

After next season.

[kutulu 1,659]

After next season.

 

Dang...they have been talking about it so long I thought it had to be this off season.

[heavy-set 39]

:crickets:

[KSB2424 3,148]

:crickets:

:tumbleweeds: > :crickets: HTH

[heavy-set 39]

:tumbleweeds: > :crickets: HTH

its funny you should mention that, becasue

 

crickets > tumbleweed

[patweisers44 815]

I keep flip-flopping on Hansbrough. Some days I think he'd make a great addition to Bucks(who may or may not need a PF), hustles and probably could be a real consistent 10-12 point scorer with 8-10 boards a game. 10 might be too high, but if they could drop 6 to 8 picks that would work. Other times his lack of athletism scares me and with Bogut that would be too guys who more bangers than jump out of the gym guys.

 

If used correctly with realistic expectations though, he could be a heck of a role player for the right team.

I think you are right there with this assessment. Also, his coming from a winning (bigtime) program helps as well. He may end up being a white mans Shane Battier...as far as lack of hype vs. long-term results go

[RicemanX 20]

Update (6/35/09 12:41pm): Over at Y! Sports Adrian Wojnarowski in Draft buzz: Shaq gone, Amare on the move? writes:

 

League executives say the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors have discussed a possible trade that is centered around sending Amare Stoudemire to the Warriors for a package that would include Andris Biedrins and the No. 7 pick in the draft. But Warriors coach Don Nelson is telling friends that there's nothing seriously brewing there.

[KSB2424 3,148]

Vince Carter to Orlando for Tony Battie, Courtney Lee and Skip to my Lou.

 

There's all kinds of activity.

 

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/bask...r.ap/index.html

[RicemanX 20]

Vince Carter to Orlando for Tony Battie, Courtney Lee and Skip to my Lou.

 

There's all kinds of activity.

 

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/bask...r.ap/index.html

First thought was that Orlando stole Carter...but after looking at it...Courtney Lee is going to be a SOLID player for a long time. Great defense, someone who did a great job guarding LeBron in the playoffs, he also started to get his shot in the second half.

 

If Vince only gives ORL one season...I think this might have been a better trade for the Nets.

[Me_2006 14]

I think Steph Curry knows he's gonna be a Knick. No player with the NBA pedigree and media savvy he has would keep talking about how he'd love to end up in NY with D'Antoni and blah blah blah unless he knows where he's going. I'll be surprised if the Knicks dont make a move up to the 4-5 spot to take him.

[FlaHawker 24]

First thought was that Orlando stole Carter...but after looking at it...Courtney Lee is going to be a SOLID player for a long time. Great defense, someone who did a great job guarding LeBron in the playoffs, he also started to get his shot in the second half.

 

If Vince only gives ORL one season...I think this might have been a better trade for the Nets.

Not happy they gave up Courtney Lee. I'm not a Carter fan. Bad move. If Turk leaves this deal is even worse.

[Super Cubs 153]

Update (6/35/09 12:41pm): Over at Y! Sports Adrian Wojnarowski in Draft buzz: Shaq gone, Amare on the move? writes:

 

League executives say the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors have discussed a possible trade that is centered around sending Amare Stoudemire to the Warriors for a package that would include Andris Biedrins and the No. 7 pick in the draft. But Warriors coach Don Nelson is telling friends that there's nothing seriously brewing there.

Its rumored on Houston radio that Stoudemire and another player I can't think of the name to be traded to the Rockets for Brooks and Landry.

[Joey Gladstone 33]

Two thoughts:

 

Does Joe Dumars have a thing for Eastern Washington area players?

 

and

 

Is Larry Bird trying to wash out the bad taste of Artest/O'neal/Jackson by compling every squeaky-clean white boy he can? I'd love to see him draft my boy Micah Downs in the 2nd...by far the most underrated and best player coming out of Gonzaga this season.

[lambert58 71]

Two thoughts:

 

Does Joe Dumars have a thing for Eastern Washington area players?

 

and

 

Is Larry Bird trying to wash out the bad taste of Artest/O'neal/Jackson by compling every squeaky-clean white boy he can? I'd love to see him draft my boy Micah Downs in the 2nd...by far the most underrated and best player coming out of Gonzaga this season.

 

 

Die Hard Pacer fan here and very disappointed with this pick. (I agree about cleaning up the image thing)

 

He is a great player but the Pacers already have Troy Murphy in that role (14.3 ppg and 11.8 rpg). I would have liked to see PG at this spot or at least a player with a little more upside.

 

Solid pick but not a jump up for joy pick.....

[Vikings4ever 538]

I haven't watched the NBA in years, and just looked for idle curiosity.

 

But the Timberpuppies took 3 point guards in round 1.

 

Did they hire Matt Millen?