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That 3 way trade makes no sense. Ricky Rubio and Smith for Devin Harris? No thanks. Why are the nets looking to get rid of him anyway?
:: Official 2009 NBA Draft Thread ::
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by jpzx,
- Start date
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It's more Memphis picking and trading Rubio.
Either way, too much for Minny to give up
Either way, too much for Minny to give up
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UM..............
THIS IS NOT A THORN/KIKI DECISION.
THE NETS FEEL RUBIO IS MARKETABLE AND A PERSON THAT WILL PUT PEOPLE IN THE SEATS.
I HATE BRUCE RATNER AND BRETT YORKMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BUSINESS FIRST AND BROOKLYN ALL THE WAY.
GIVE UP ON DEVIN LIKE THAT. I HOPE THIS DOES NOT GO DOWN.
At least we get to keep the 11th pick though..................
THIS IS NOT A THORN/KIKI DECISION.
THE NETS FEEL RUBIO IS MARKETABLE AND A PERSON THAT WILL PUT PEOPLE IN THE SEATS.
I HATE BRUCE RATNER AND BRETT YORKMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BUSINESS FIRST AND BROOKLYN ALL THE WAY.
GIVE UP ON DEVIN LIKE THAT. I HOPE THIS DOES NOT GO DOWN.
At least we get to keep the 11th pick though..................
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None of those point guards get past the Mavericks at 24 if they're still on the board, I don't think...
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Originally Posted by JPZx
^ No thanks
Why would we give up the #5, #6 and Craig Smith for Devin Harris when we won't give up the #5 and #6 for Rubio?
Because Harris is a proven scorer as well unlike Rubio. He's already an all-star caliber player as well. He could be who Minnesota needs to pair alongsideJefferson and have a 1-2 punch.
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But we have to take into consideration what Minny gave up just to get the 5 pick. Devin is a stud, but Minny still needs to round out their roster.
They're better off taking Tyreke + Curry to shore up the backcourt.
They're better off taking Tyreke + Curry to shore up the backcourt.
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thats like the worst trade i ever seen
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that trade is ******ed. If the Nets do that, VC is the next to go.
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I wonder what our pecking order is, I'm almost scared
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Okay.
If the Nets get Rubio and with Thorn talking that their is a player that was top 5 dropping, (Jordan Hill)
If he got by Golden State (which he will not), and got to the 11th, would that be a salvage to the trading of Devin?
I just can not see with this draft being what it is that deals like this are good.
I just see Ratner trying to upstage the Knicks in the Garden with this move.
If the Nets get Rubio and with Thorn talking that their is a player that was top 5 dropping, (Jordan Hill)
If he got by Golden State (which he will not), and got to the 11th, would that be a salvage to the trading of Devin?
I just can not see with this draft being what it is that deals like this are good.
I just see Ratner trying to upstage the Knicks in the Garden with this move.
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Has an all-star ever been traded after his first all-star season?Originally Posted by bhzmafia14
Originally Posted by JPZx
^ No thanks
Why would we give up the #5, #6 and Craig Smith for Devin Harris when we won't give up the #5 and #6 for Rubio?
Because Harris is a proven scorer as well unlike Rubio. He's already an all-star caliber player as well. He could be who Minnesota needs to pair alongside Jefferson and have a 1-2 punch.
I always thought Minnesota was gunning for Thabeet
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Ford's Mock 7.1, with a little explanation of things first:
Chad Ford: I just updated my mock draft to version 7.1 a few minutes ago. Here are the keychanges:
-- Sources say the Bucks are now leaning strongly toward Brandon Jennings at No. 10. So much for that green-room dramahe was facing. Over the past 48 hours the Bucks have really fallen in love with Jennings, and it's possible they would take him even if Jonny Flynn were still on the board.
-- I pushed Jrue Holiday to No. 13 at Indiana. ThePacers have been eyeing Ty Lawson, but I doubt LarryBird can pass on the upside of Holiday. Not only is he one of the most talented players in the draft, he also has great size and defensive ability -- twothings the Pacers lack in their backcourt.
-- With Lawson pushed out of Indiana's spot, I have him falling all the way to Atlanta at No. 19. Lawson would get a long look in Philly, but from whatI'm hearing they are leaning toward Eric Maynorright now.
-- And with the Knicks buying the Lakers' pick at 29, I have them taking Florida State's Toney Douglas. GM Donnie Walsh is a big fan of Douglas, who isa great shooter and a terrific defender -- sort of a poor man's Ben Gordon. DaJuan Summers and Derrick Brown are other potential targets for the Knicksthere.
• There are two theories in play that explain why the Thunder might not be taking Ricky Rubio after all.
The first is the smokescreen theory. It says that the Thunder are very tight-lipped and all of the recent leaks about Rubio are uncharacteristic of a SamPresti team. They say that the Thunder are leaking Rubio hoping that a team like the Wolves who are hot for him would trade an asset to move up two spots.
The second theory is the Arn Tellem theory. Tellem is the agent for Russell Westbrook and some believe that he's been exerting major pressure on Prestinot to take Rubio. Westrbrook wants to be a point guard and would be unhappy if he was moved to the 2.
I'm not sure I buy the second one at all. It is a tough position for Presti to be in, but in the end I think Rubio would make Westbrook a better player.As for the first one, that one does scare me a bit.
• The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to work the phones as we approach the draft. Oneinteresting scenario that's arisen is a Knicks proposal that would send Wilson Chandler and the No. 8 pick to Minnesota for either the No. 5 or No. 6pick.
Why would the Knicks do it? They believe this is a seven-player draft and they're stuck at 8. If they get to No. 6 they'll have a shot at Jordan Hill, Stephen Curry or Tyreke Evans there.
Why would the Wolves do it? If they can't get their hands on Ricky Rubio, most likely they'll select Jonny Flynn with one of their picks. Since theWarriors aren't seriously considering Flynn, they can move down two spots, get their guy and pick up a very nice asset in Chandler.
• The Grizzlies also are still shopping their pick and one potential trade may persuade them to part with it. A source in Memphis says the Rockets haveoffered Shane Battier and Aaron Brooks for No. 2. TheGrizzlies could send them the dreaded Marko Jaric contract back and save some face in the draft if they did it. Who are the Rockets after? That is the question...
• The Raptors have been debating all week between DeMar DeRozan and Jrue Holiday. James Johnson has been a dark horse there lately too, but itsounds like DeRozan has the slight edge.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level in this forecast: 99.9 percent
Analysis: With the first pick in the 2009 NBA draft, the Los AngelesClippers select ... Chinemelu Elonu from Texas A&M! OK ... not even the Clippers would do that. They can't screw this up, right? Griffin is thebest player in the draft and for once, the Clippers won't have excuses. He has all the ingredients to become a dominant player in the NBA. If the Clippersdon't pick him, they should be banned from the lottery.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if player is available): 75 percent
Analysis: The Grizzlies continue to work the phones to find a trade, but with every passing hour it looks like they're keeping the pickand selecting ... surprise ... Thabeet.
We've had Thabeet here since Mock Draft Version 1, when we reported that owner Michael Heisley had a thing for Thabeet. Since then, the Grizzlies havetaken a look at everyone but keep coming back to Thabeet.
Ricky Rubio was in the picture, but doesn'tseem to be anymore. Tyreke Evans was even stronger inthe mix. So was James Harden and Jordan Hill. But in the end Thabeet makes the most sense inMemphis.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: Thunder GM Sam Presti flew to L.A. on Saturday to talk to Rubio. He also got a chance to review Rubio's physical and contract-- two important pieces of the puzzle for whoever drafts him.
Then, on Sunday, Presti met with Harden and Thabeet in L.A. And just to make things even more confusing, we hear Presti now is hot for Stephen Curry.
Whom will the Thunder draft? I think this one is going down to the wire. I know Presti is a fan of all four players -- Rubio and Thabeet have the upside,and Harden and Curry are the better fits. If Presti can get a couple of assets in return for the No. 3 pick, he won't be afraid to pull the trigger on atrade, either.
If the Thunder keep the pick, my brain says Harden is a perfect fit in Oklahoma City next to Russell Westbrook. The scuttle is that Curry is the hot name inthe Thunder's draft war room. And a few people think Thabeet's size will win the day. But I have to believe that Rubio, whom we've had here sincethe night of the lottery, will end up in OKC.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 30 percent
Analysis: The Kings are all over the place. As of last night there was support for three candidates: Jonny Flynn, Evans and Curry. And there was owner support forRubio.
Flynn brings vocal leadership, athleticism and an NBA-ready body to the table. Rubio is less ready for the NBA physically, but he's a purer point guardwho understands the game better than anyone else in the draft. Evans isn't a true point, but the Kings love his strength, toughness and size, especiallysince his second workout. Curry is the wild card -- he's a great shooter who would fit nicely in the backcourt next to Kevin Martin, but he wouldn'tgive them a defensive presence.
I think Curry has a slight lead going into Thursday but don't count out Rubio, Evans or Flynn. All three could end up as the pick.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Timberwolves now have the No. 5 and No. 6 picks and pretty big holes at the 1 and 2, as well as at center. They worked thephones in an effort to put together a package for Pick 2 or 3, but nothing has come of it as of late last night.
They are hoping to grab two of these threeplayers: Rubio, Thabeet and Evans. We have two of those players off the board. So Evans goes first, making pick No. 6 pretty problematic, because I don'tknow whether the Wolves are one of those teams that think Evans is a point or a 2-guard.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if player is available): 50 percent
Analysis: Assuming for a second the Wolves think that because Evans doesn't pass, he's not a point guard, we'll put Flynn hereat No. 6.
His main competition, if both Rubio and Curry are off the board, is Harden. Harden flew in for a workout Wednesday and I think the Wolves like him a lot.I'm not sure exactly how he fits with Evans, but by the end of the day, I could end up swapping him in for Flynn.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 75 percent
Analysis: The Warriors have a young player, Monta Ellis, who thinks he's a point guard, and a coach, Don Nelson, who appears to becommitted to giving Ellis a shot at running the point.
With the Warriors moving toward trading for Acie Law that might be enough young point guards.
I think that puts Hill strongly in play here. He's a mobile big man, which Nellie likes, and he's got a great motor. It wouldn't shock me to seeGolden State move Brandon Wright this summer and if they do, Hill fits right in.
If Hill is gone, James Johnson could be the pickhere.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Knicks will be disappointed if Curry, Rubio, Hill and Evans are all off the board. But they'll still be relieved to findHarden here. The Knicks believe the draft is seven players deep and Harden is one of those seven.
If Harden is snatched up by the Thunder or the Timberwolves, they look at Jrue Holiday, Brandon Jennings, DeMar DeRozan and Gerald Henderson. I think they will prioritize point guard,and Holiday has a very slim lead over Jennings.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Raptors have some needs on the wing since Anthony Parker and Shawn Marion are hitting free agency. DeRozan is one of the mostgifted players in the draft, and has been on the Raptors' radar screen for a while.
The past few days, Holiday and Johnson have also made a push for this pick. The Raptors would like a very solid backup for Jose Calderon, and Johnson wouldgive them so much needed toughness at the 3.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Bucks have three point guards on their board -- Jonny Flynn, Jrue Holiday and Jennings. Over the last 48 hours, all of themomentum has been going in the direction of Jennings, even if Flynn falls to them.
I think Jennings' upside and star potential have the Bucks wowed at the moment.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: While Rod Thorn has said he needs a moose up front, the problem is there aren't any moose to be had. Luckily, the Nets haveneeds in the backcourt, too. Vince Carter isn't getting any younger and he could still end up being trade bait at some point in the season.
Henderson, Terrence Williams and Tyler Hansbrough seem to be the final three guys the Nets arelooking at. While I think there's a preference, from a talent perspective, for Williams, I think Henderson's more stable personality seems to bewinning him more fans in Jersey.
Hansbrough is likely to be the choice only if the Nets end up pulling the trigger with Chicago for the No. 16 and No. 26 picks in the draft.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 55 percent
Analysis: Last week I said I thought it was close to a sure thing that Henderson would be the pick here. But Williams went in for a workoutand blew Charlotte coach Larry Brown away. Williams and Henderson squared off in a second workout Monday, and Williams walked away the winner.
James Johnson is the other guy who could go here. While Williams seems to be the favorite of Brown, Michael Jordan has emerged as a Johnson fan and couldend up trumping Brown. I would love to see those two duke it out. Think Larry will start chanting "Kwame! Kwame!" or maybe "Adam!Adam!"?
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Pacers would feel pretty fortunate if Holiday slipped here. While they've been enamored with Ty Lawson, Eric Maynor andTyler Hansbrough, the Pacers just can't pass on Holiday if he's still on the board. He's the type of big point guard that would be a perfectcomplement to T.J. Ford.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Suns could go in a lot of directions, depending on where GM Steve Kerr decides to take the team.
There's been a lot of talk about Clark, James Johnson and B.J. Mullens here. Tyler Hansbrough has an outside shot as well. Of the three, it sounds likeClark has the most momentum right now, with his versatility being a perfect fit for the Suns' system.
Or Phoenix could be trading this pick -- a number of teams are trying to get into the lottery, and this could be the bait.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 75 percent
Analysis: The Pistons will begin their summer makeover in the draft. They'd love to add a dominant low-post scorer, but in lieu ofthat, they'll have to settle for choosing between two upside guys: Clark and Daye.
Clark could be the second coming of Lamar Odom if he's willing to put in the work. The versatile forward can play the 3 and the 4 and is amazing intransition, an excellent rebounder and an emerging shooter. And he has the capability (albeit not always the inclination) to play great defense. But there area few questions about his background that might hurt him.
Daye is one of the most skilled players in the draft -- sort of a 6-foot-11 version of Tayshaun Prince. He's super skinny, but he can really shoot therock. Like Clark, he is inconsistent but has major upside.
I think Daye has moved into the lead here based on both his upside and his squeaky-clean background.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 55 percent
Analysis: The Bulls have been working the phones this week trying to move up in the draft.
They've talked to the Nets, Bobcats and Pacers about swapping the 16th and 26th picks to move up a few spots.
Who are they after? I've heard everything from Johnson to Blair to Hansbrough to Williams to Mullens here. Last night a new name, Omri Casspi, surfaced as a possibility. To be honest, Ican't get a terrific handle on which way they are leaning.
Blair is the most physical. Casspi isn't far behind. Hansbrough is the most NBA-ready. Mullens has the most upside. Johnson is somewhere in between.I'm not sure exactly how Johnson fits in Chicago with Luol Deng on one side and Tyrus Thomas on the other, but there's no question about hisupside.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: With Andre Miller hitting free agency this summer, look for the Sixers to address the point guard position. Lou Williams is nicebut not really a lead guard.
Maynor, Lawson and Teague all are in the mix here … as are Williams, Henderson, Wayne Ellington and Sam Young.
Maynor would give Philly the total package as one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft. Lawson had the best season of any of the point guards and canreally play in an up-tempo style. Teague also will get a look here, but he's more of a combo guard, and the Sixers have that in Williams.
With Lawson off the board, I think Maynor is the pick.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: I'm not sure whether the Wolves will keep this pick, and there are a number of teams that seem to be hot for Mullens thatwould be willing to trade for it. If the Wolves keep it, Mullens could fill a big hole in the paint in the long term.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: The Hawks are trading Acie Law and Speedy Claxton for Jamal Crawford. I don't think Mike Bibby is a priority anymore,especially at his asking price. So Lawson is a good pick for a veteran team that could use someone to step right in at point guard.
Jeff Teague, Tyler Hansbrough and Omri Casspi are also real possibilities here.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 85 percent
Analysis: The Jazz and Hansbrough seem like a match made in heaven. If Hansbrough falls this far (he's getting a look at 11, 13, 16 and19), I don't see them passing on him. With Carlos Boozer heading out the door, they need more toughness in the paint. But if he's off the board, theylikely will be deciding among Young and ToneyDouglas.
Young is the type of tough veteran the Jazz love. He is ready to step in and play right now, and would give them minutes at both the 2 and the 3.
Douglas is the type of combo guard the Jazz currently lack. He shoots, plays defense and could be a credible backup at both positions for Utah.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: Young is one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft.
He has size and strength and was super productive at Pitt the past two years. Most importantly for New Orleans, he can come in and contribute rightaway.
Daye, Darren Collison, Chase Budinger, Taj Gibson and Derrick Brown also are in the mix.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: Why would the Blazers move up two spots in the draft? The word around the league was the Kings had zeroed in on Omri Casspi withthe 23rd pick. Casspi could be a good pick for the Blazers to either keep overseas or bring over this year to provide more toughness in the frontcourt.
However, I think Kevin Pritchard won't be able to pass on Blair if he's on the board.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Kings need toughness in the worst way, and Casspi can really deliver on that. He's not the most skilled player in thedraft, but few players possess his grit. As an added bonus for Sacramento, they don't have to pay him to come over yet.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 75 percent
Analysis: This would be a pretty big slide for Teague, who thought his floor was No. 19. Actually, he could go as high as No. 10, so hisrange is pretty wide. Dallas would be doing backflips to get him here, and, as it happens, he's got some Devin Harris in his game.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 40 percent
Analysis: The Thunder would love to get their hands on a legitimate center, but there won't be anyone worth gambling on at this pointin the draft. If the team doesn't address its needs at the 2 earlier in the draft, Budinger could be an option. With his shooting ability, he would be anice complement in the backcourt to Russell Westbrook.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Bulls are still shopping this pick, but if they keep it, look for them to spend it on someone they can keep overseas for atleast a year. With Kirk Hinrich likely on the move this summer, Calathes could eventually find a home in Chicago.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th]
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Grizzlies lack toughness and energy and Carroll has an abundance of both.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 75 percent
Analysis: It seems doubtful the Wolves would keep three rookies on their roster this season, which gives them an interesting choice ofinternational players. Casspi would be an obvious choice. He is tough and physical and can keep developing overseas. Victor Claver is the other. But word is Jerebko, from Sweden,is the top choice at the moment.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 85 percent
Analysis: Knicks GM Donnie Walsh traded here hoping that a player he was in love with would fall. Put Douglas, whose defense and shootingability have the Knicks really intrigued, at the top of that list. If Douglas is gone, DaJuan Summers and Derrick Brown will both be targets as well.
[th=""]PICK[/th] [th=""]TEAM[/th] [th=""]PLAYER[/th] [th=""]VITALS[/th] Confidence level (if available): 40 percent
Analysis: The Cavs could lose Anderson Varejao this summer. After getting bested by the Magic, the need for them to have some athletic 4swho can guard players on the perimeter is paramount.
Chad Ford: I just updated my mock draft to version 7.1 a few minutes ago. Here are the keychanges:
-- Sources say the Bucks are now leaning strongly toward Brandon Jennings at No. 10. So much for that green-room dramahe was facing. Over the past 48 hours the Bucks have really fallen in love with Jennings, and it's possible they would take him even if Jonny Flynn were still on the board.
-- I pushed Jrue Holiday to No. 13 at Indiana. ThePacers have been eyeing Ty Lawson, but I doubt LarryBird can pass on the upside of Holiday. Not only is he one of the most talented players in the draft, he also has great size and defensive ability -- twothings the Pacers lack in their backcourt.
-- With Lawson pushed out of Indiana's spot, I have him falling all the way to Atlanta at No. 19. Lawson would get a long look in Philly, but from whatI'm hearing they are leaning toward Eric Maynorright now.
-- And with the Knicks buying the Lakers' pick at 29, I have them taking Florida State's Toney Douglas. GM Donnie Walsh is a big fan of Douglas, who isa great shooter and a terrific defender -- sort of a poor man's Ben Gordon. DaJuan Summers and Derrick Brown are other potential targets for the Knicksthere.
• There are two theories in play that explain why the Thunder might not be taking Ricky Rubio after all.
The first is the smokescreen theory. It says that the Thunder are very tight-lipped and all of the recent leaks about Rubio are uncharacteristic of a SamPresti team. They say that the Thunder are leaking Rubio hoping that a team like the Wolves who are hot for him would trade an asset to move up two spots.
The second theory is the Arn Tellem theory. Tellem is the agent for Russell Westbrook and some believe that he's been exerting major pressure on Prestinot to take Rubio. Westrbrook wants to be a point guard and would be unhappy if he was moved to the 2.
I'm not sure I buy the second one at all. It is a tough position for Presti to be in, but in the end I think Rubio would make Westbrook a better player.As for the first one, that one does scare me a bit.
• The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to work the phones as we approach the draft. Oneinteresting scenario that's arisen is a Knicks proposal that would send Wilson Chandler and the No. 8 pick to Minnesota for either the No. 5 or No. 6pick.
Why would the Knicks do it? They believe this is a seven-player draft and they're stuck at 8. If they get to No. 6 they'll have a shot at Jordan Hill, Stephen Curry or Tyreke Evans there.
Why would the Wolves do it? If they can't get their hands on Ricky Rubio, most likely they'll select Jonny Flynn with one of their picks. Since theWarriors aren't seriously considering Flynn, they can move down two spots, get their guy and pick up a very nice asset in Chandler.
• The Grizzlies also are still shopping their pick and one potential trade may persuade them to part with it. A source in Memphis says the Rockets haveoffered Shane Battier and Aaron Brooks for No. 2. TheGrizzlies could send them the dreaded Marko Jaric contract back and save some face in the draft if they did it. Who are the Rockets after? That is the question...
• The Raptors have been debating all week between DeMar DeRozan and Jrue Holiday. James Johnson has been a dark horse there lately too, but itsounds like DeRozan has the slight edge.
| 
L.A. Clippers | 
Blake Griffin | Position: PF Height: 6-10 Weight: 248 pounds Age: 20 School: Oklahoma |
Confidence level in this forecast: 99.9 percent
Analysis: With the first pick in the 2009 NBA draft, the Los AngelesClippers select ... Chinemelu Elonu from Texas A&M! OK ... not even the Clippers would do that. They can't screw this up, right? Griffin is thebest player in the draft and for once, the Clippers won't have excuses. He has all the ingredients to become a dominant player in the NBA. If the Clippersdon't pick him, they should be banned from the lottery.
| 
Memphis | 
Hasheem Thabeet | Position: C Height: 7-3 Weight: 267 Age: 22 School: Connecticut |
Analysis: The Grizzlies continue to work the phones to find a trade, but with every passing hour it looks like they're keeping the pickand selecting ... surprise ... Thabeet.
We've had Thabeet here since Mock Draft Version 1, when we reported that owner Michael Heisley had a thing for Thabeet. Since then, the Grizzlies havetaken a look at everyone but keep coming back to Thabeet.
Ricky Rubio was in the picture, but doesn'tseem to be anymore. Tyreke Evans was even stronger inthe mix. So was James Harden and Jordan Hill. But in the end Thabeet makes the most sense inMemphis.
|
Oklahoma City | 
Ricky Rubio | Position: PG Height: 6-5 Weight: 180 Age: 18 Country: Spain |
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: Thunder GM Sam Presti flew to L.A. on Saturday to talk to Rubio. He also got a chance to review Rubio's physical and contract-- two important pieces of the puzzle for whoever drafts him.
Then, on Sunday, Presti met with Harden and Thabeet in L.A. And just to make things even more confusing, we hear Presti now is hot for Stephen Curry.
Whom will the Thunder draft? I think this one is going down to the wire. I know Presti is a fan of all four players -- Rubio and Thabeet have the upside,and Harden and Curry are the better fits. If Presti can get a couple of assets in return for the No. 3 pick, he won't be afraid to pull the trigger on atrade, either.
If the Thunder keep the pick, my brain says Harden is a perfect fit in Oklahoma City next to Russell Westbrook. The scuttle is that Curry is the hot name inthe Thunder's draft war room. And a few people think Thabeet's size will win the day. But I have to believe that Rubio, whom we've had here sincethe night of the lottery, will end up in OKC.
| 
Sacramento | 
Stephen Curry | Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 181 Age: 21 School: Davidson |
Confidence level (if available): 30 percent
Analysis: The Kings are all over the place. As of last night there was support for three candidates: Jonny Flynn, Evans and Curry. And there was owner support forRubio.
Flynn brings vocal leadership, athleticism and an NBA-ready body to the table. Rubio is less ready for the NBA physically, but he's a purer point guardwho understands the game better than anyone else in the draft. Evans isn't a true point, but the Kings love his strength, toughness and size, especiallysince his second workout. Curry is the wild card -- he's a great shooter who would fit nicely in the backcourt next to Kevin Martin, but he wouldn'tgive them a defensive presence.
I think Curry has a slight lead going into Thursday but don't count out Rubio, Evans or Flynn. All three could end up as the pick.
| 
Minnesota | 
Tyreke Evans | Position: SG Height: 6-5 Weight: 220 Age: 19 School: Memphis |
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Timberwolves now have the No. 5 and No. 6 picks and pretty big holes at the 1 and 2, as well as at center. They worked thephones in an effort to put together a package for Pick 2 or 3, but nothing has come of it as of late last night.
They are hoping to grab two of these threeplayers: Rubio, Thabeet and Evans. We have two of those players off the board. So Evans goes first, making pick No. 6 pretty problematic, because I don'tknow whether the Wolves are one of those teams that think Evans is a point or a 2-guard.
|
Minnesota | 
Jonny Flynn | Position: PG Height: 6-1 Weight: 196 Age: 20 School: Syracuse |
Analysis: Assuming for a second the Wolves think that because Evans doesn't pass, he's not a point guard, we'll put Flynn hereat No. 6.
His main competition, if both Rubio and Curry are off the board, is Harden. Harden flew in for a workout Wednesday and I think the Wolves like him a lot.I'm not sure exactly how he fits with Evans, but by the end of the day, I could end up swapping him in for Flynn.
| 
Golden State | 
Jordan Hill | Position: PF Height: 6-10 Weight: 232 Age: 21 School: Arizona |
Analysis: The Warriors have a young player, Monta Ellis, who thinks he's a point guard, and a coach, Don Nelson, who appears to becommitted to giving Ellis a shot at running the point.
With the Warriors moving toward trading for Acie Law that might be enough young point guards.
I think that puts Hill strongly in play here. He's a mobile big man, which Nellie likes, and he's got a great motor. It wouldn't shock me to seeGolden State move Brandon Wright this summer and if they do, Hill fits right in.
If Hill is gone, James Johnson could be the pickhere.
| 
New York | 
James Harden | Position: SG Height: 6-5 Weight: 222 Age: 19 School: Arizona State |
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Knicks will be disappointed if Curry, Rubio, Hill and Evans are all off the board. But they'll still be relieved to findHarden here. The Knicks believe the draft is seven players deep and Harden is one of those seven.
If Harden is snatched up by the Thunder or the Timberwolves, they look at Jrue Holiday, Brandon Jennings, DeMar DeRozan and Gerald Henderson. I think they will prioritize point guard,and Holiday has a very slim lead over Jennings.
| 
Toronto | 
DeMar DeRozan | Position: SG Height: 6-6 Weight: 211 Age: 19 School: USC |
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Raptors have some needs on the wing since Anthony Parker and Shawn Marion are hitting free agency. DeRozan is one of the mostgifted players in the draft, and has been on the Raptors' radar screen for a while.
The past few days, Holiday and Johnson have also made a push for this pick. The Raptors would like a very solid backup for Jose Calderon, and Johnson wouldgive them so much needed toughness at the 3.
|
Milwaukee | 
Brandon Jennings | Position: PG Height: 6-2 Weight: 165 Age: 19 Country: Italy |
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Bucks have three point guards on their board -- Jonny Flynn, Jrue Holiday and Jennings. Over the last 48 hours, all of themomentum has been going in the direction of Jennings, even if Flynn falls to them.
I think Jennings' upside and star potential have the Bucks wowed at the moment.
| 
New Jersey | 
Gerald Henderson | Position: SG Height: 6-5 Weight: 215 Age: 21 School: Duke |
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: While Rod Thorn has said he needs a moose up front, the problem is there aren't any moose to be had. Luckily, the Nets haveneeds in the backcourt, too. Vince Carter isn't getting any younger and he could still end up being trade bait at some point in the season.
Henderson, Terrence Williams and Tyler Hansbrough seem to be the final three guys the Nets arelooking at. While I think there's a preference, from a talent perspective, for Williams, I think Henderson's more stable personality seems to bewinning him more fans in Jersey.
Hansbrough is likely to be the choice only if the Nets end up pulling the trigger with Chicago for the No. 16 and No. 26 picks in the draft.
| 
Charlotte | 
Terrence Williams | Position: SG Height: 6-6 Weight: 213 Age: 21 School: Louisville |
Analysis: Last week I said I thought it was close to a sure thing that Henderson would be the pick here. But Williams went in for a workoutand blew Charlotte coach Larry Brown away. Williams and Henderson squared off in a second workout Monday, and Williams walked away the winner.
James Johnson is the other guy who could go here. While Williams seems to be the favorite of Brown, Michael Jordan has emerged as a Johnson fan and couldend up trumping Brown. I would love to see those two duke it out. Think Larry will start chanting "Kwame! Kwame!" or maybe "Adam!Adam!"?
| 
Indiana | 
Jrue Holiday | Position: PG Height: 6-4 Weight: 199 Age: 18 School: UCLA |
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Pacers would feel pretty fortunate if Holiday slipped here. While they've been enamored with Ty Lawson, Eric Maynor andTyler Hansbrough, the Pacers just can't pass on Holiday if he's still on the board. He's the type of big point guard that would be a perfectcomplement to T.J. Ford.
| 
Phoenix | 
Earl Clark | Position: SF Height: 6-10 Weight: 226 Age: 21 School: Louisville |
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: The Suns could go in a lot of directions, depending on where GM Steve Kerr decides to take the team.
There's been a lot of talk about Clark, James Johnson and B.J. Mullens here. Tyler Hansbrough has an outside shot as well. Of the three, it sounds likeClark has the most momentum right now, with his versatility being a perfect fit for the Suns' system.
Or Phoenix could be trading this pick -- a number of teams are trying to get into the lottery, and this could be the bait.
| 
Detroit | 
Austin Daye | Position: SF Height: 6-11 Weight: 192 Age: 20 School: Gonzaga |
Analysis: The Pistons will begin their summer makeover in the draft. They'd love to add a dominant low-post scorer, but in lieu ofthat, they'll have to settle for choosing between two upside guys: Clark and Daye.
Clark could be the second coming of Lamar Odom if he's willing to put in the work. The versatile forward can play the 3 and the 4 and is amazing intransition, an excellent rebounder and an emerging shooter. And he has the capability (albeit not always the inclination) to play great defense. But there area few questions about his background that might hurt him.
Daye is one of the most skilled players in the draft -- sort of a 6-foot-11 version of Tayshaun Prince. He's super skinny, but he can really shoot therock. Like Clark, he is inconsistent but has major upside.
I think Daye has moved into the lead here based on both his upside and his squeaky-clean background.
| 
Chicago | 
James Johnson | Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 258 Age: 22 School: Wake Forest |
Confidence level (if available): 55 percent
Analysis: The Bulls have been working the phones this week trying to move up in the draft.
They've talked to the Nets, Bobcats and Pacers about swapping the 16th and 26th picks to move up a few spots.
Who are they after? I've heard everything from Johnson to Blair to Hansbrough to Williams to Mullens here. Last night a new name, Omri Casspi, surfaced as a possibility. To be honest, Ican't get a terrific handle on which way they are leaning.
Blair is the most physical. Casspi isn't far behind. Hansbrough is the most NBA-ready. Mullens has the most upside. Johnson is somewhere in between.I'm not sure exactly how Johnson fits in Chicago with Luol Deng on one side and Tyrus Thomas on the other, but there's no question about hisupside.
| 
Philadelphia | 
Eric Maynor | Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 164 Age: 21 School: VCU |
Analysis: With Andre Miller hitting free agency this summer, look for the Sixers to address the point guard position. Lou Williams is nicebut not really a lead guard.
Maynor, Lawson and Teague all are in the mix here … as are Williams, Henderson, Wayne Ellington and Sam Young.
Maynor would give Philly the total package as one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft. Lawson had the best season of any of the point guards and canreally play in an up-tempo style. Teague also will get a look here, but he's more of a combo guard, and the Sixers have that in Williams.
With Lawson off the board, I think Maynor is the pick.
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Minnesota (from Miami) | 
B.J. Mullens | Position: C Height: 7-1 Weight: 258 Age: 20 School: Ohio State |
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: I'm not sure whether the Wolves will keep this pick, and there are a number of teams that seem to be hot for Mullens thatwould be willing to trade for it. If the Wolves keep it, Mullens could fill a big hole in the paint in the long term.
| 
Atlanta | 
Ty Lawson | Position: PG Height: 6-1 Weight: 199 Age: 21 School: North Carolina |
Confidence level (if available): 50 percent
Analysis: The Hawks are trading Acie Law and Speedy Claxton for Jamal Crawford. I don't think Mike Bibby is a priority anymore,especially at his asking price. So Lawson is a good pick for a veteran team that could use someone to step right in at point guard.
Jeff Teague, Tyler Hansbrough and Omri Casspi are also real possibilities here.
| 
Utah | 
Tyler Hansbrough | Position: PF Height: 6-10 Weight: 234 Age: 23 School: North Carolina |
Analysis: The Jazz and Hansbrough seem like a match made in heaven. If Hansbrough falls this far (he's getting a look at 11, 13, 16 and19), I don't see them passing on him. With Carlos Boozer heading out the door, they need more toughness in the paint. But if he's off the board, theylikely will be deciding among Young and ToneyDouglas.
Young is the type of tough veteran the Jazz love. He is ready to step in and play right now, and would give them minutes at both the 2 and the 3.
Douglas is the type of combo guard the Jazz currently lack. He shoots, plays defense and could be a credible backup at both positions for Utah.
| 
New Orleans | 
Sam Young | Position: SF Height: 6-7 Weight: 223 Age: 24 School: Pittsburgh |
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: Young is one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft.
He has size and strength and was super productive at Pitt the past two years. Most importantly for New Orleans, he can come in and contribute rightaway.
Daye, Darren Collison, Chase Budinger, Taj Gibson and Derrick Brown also are in the mix.
| 
Portland | 
DeJuan Blair | Position: PF Height: 6-7 Weight: 277 Age: 20 School: Pittsburgh |
Confidence level (if available): 60 percent
Analysis: Why would the Blazers move up two spots in the draft? The word around the league was the Kings had zeroed in on Omri Casspi withthe 23rd pick. Casspi could be a good pick for the Blazers to either keep overseas or bring over this year to provide more toughness in the frontcourt.
However, I think Kevin Pritchard won't be able to pass on Blair if he's on the board.
|
Sacramento (via Houston) | 
Omri Casspi | Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 211 Age: 20 Country: Israel |
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Kings need toughness in the worst way, and Casspi can really deliver on that. He's not the most skilled player in thedraft, but few players possess his grit. As an added bonus for Sacramento, they don't have to pay him to come over yet.
| 
Dallas (via Portland) | 
Jeff Teague | Position: PG Height: 6-2 Weight: 175 Age: 20 School: Wake Forest |
Confidence level (if available): 75 percent
Analysis: This would be a pretty big slide for Teague, who thought his floor was No. 19. Actually, he could go as high as No. 10, so hisrange is pretty wide. Dallas would be doing backflips to get him here, and, as it happens, he's got some Devin Harris in his game.
|
Oklahoma City (via San Antonio) | 
Chase Budinger | Position: SG Height: 6-7 Weight: 206 Age: 21 School: Arizona |
Confidence level (if available): 40 percent
Analysis: The Thunder would love to get their hands on a legitimate center, but there won't be anyone worth gambling on at this pointin the draft. If the team doesn't address its needs at the 2 earlier in the draft, Budinger could be an option. With his shooting ability, he would be anice complement in the backcourt to Russell Westbrook.
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Chicago (via Denver) | 
Nick Calathes | Position: PG Height: 6-5 Weight: 185 Age: 20 School: Florida |
Confidence level (if available): 70 percent
Analysis: The Bulls are still shopping this pick, but if they keep it, look for them to spend it on someone they can keep overseas for atleast a year. With Kirk Hinrich likely on the move this summer, Calathes could eventually find a home in Chicago.
|
Memphis (via Orlando) | 
DeMarre Carroll | Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 207 Age: 22 School: Missouri |
Confidence level (if available): 80 percent
Analysis: The Grizzlies lack toughness and energy and Carroll has an abundance of both.
|
Minnesota (via Boston) | 
Jonas Jerebko | Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 220 Age: 22 Country: Sweden |
Analysis: It seems doubtful the Wolves would keep three rookies on their roster this season, which gives them an interesting choice ofinternational players. Casspi would be an obvious choice. He is tough and physical and can keep developing overseas. Victor Claver is the other. But word is Jerebko, from Sweden,is the top choice at the moment.
|
New York Knicks (via L.A. Lakers) | 
Toney Douglas | Position: SG Height: 6-2 Weight: 183 Age: 23 School: Florida State |
Analysis: Knicks GM Donnie Walsh traded here hoping that a player he was in love with would fall. Put Douglas, whose defense and shootingability have the Knicks really intrigued, at the top of that list. If Douglas is gone, DaJuan Summers and Derrick Brown will both be targets as well.
| 
Cleveland | 
Taj Gibson | Position: PF Height: 6-10 Weight: 214 Age: 24 School: USC |
Analysis: The Cavs could lose Anderson Varejao this summer. After getting bested by the Magic, the need for them to have some athletic 4swho can guard players on the perimeter is paramount.
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This is for you bzh.
Chad Ford reporting a source is saying the Rockets are offering Brooks + everybody's boy Shane for the #2
Chad Ford reporting a source is saying the Rockets are offering Brooks + everybody's boy Shane for the #2
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I'm not in any way, shape, or form excited to see what happens tonight...Originally Posted by JapanAir21
I wonder what our pecking order is, I'm almost scared
I already know I'm gonna want to throw my remote through the nearest sheet of glass when Stern announces that damn pick... It happens damn near every yearwith Mark and Donnie...
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Yea I just saw that. I don't know how I feel about it though. That's pretty good value for the 2nd pick, but why would we want to take on Brooks sobadly? I wish somehow we could get Scola.
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Yeah ever since 2004 I've been really disappointed with our picks (2004 was Harris right? Or was that 05?)Originally Posted by Nowitness41Dirk
I'm not in any way, shape, or form excited to see what happens tonight...Originally Posted by JapanAir21
I wonder what our pecking order is, I'm almost scared
I already know I'm gonna want to throw my remote through the nearest sheet of glass when Stern announces that damn pick... It happens damn near every year with Mark and Donnie...
I have progressively become disinterested in what happens. I thought Terrence slipping to us at 22 was going to be nice, just as long as they don't $+$% itup. Now he's projected lottery, and then we move down to nearly the end of the first round?
I'm not excited at all.
Best case scenario as it stands right now is: Jeff Teague or Sam Young.
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Amare seems like he could me moved
http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/60076/20090625/amare_to_golden_state_being_discussed/
AND
According to the same source that disclosed Terry Porter was about to be fired as Suns coach, the Rockets are leaning toward swapping Tracy McGrady'sexpiring $22M contract, Carl Landry and Aaron Brooks for Leandro Barbosa and Stoudemire, who owns an escape clause after next season and is demanding anextension this summer to waive it.
http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/60076/20090625/amare_to_golden_state_being_discussed/
AND
According to the same source that disclosed Terry Porter was about to be fired as Suns coach, the Rockets are leaning toward swapping Tracy McGrady'sexpiring $22M contract, Carl Landry and Aaron Brooks for Leandro Barbosa and Stoudemire, who owns an escape clause after next season and is demanding anextension this summer to waive it.
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^ just what i was coming in here to post. Rockets are gonna need another big now that they don't know how long Yao is gonna be out
jpzx
Supporter
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Sam Young is great value at 24.
I don't want Harris or Chandler....I know Harris is nice, but the #5, #6, and Craig Smith is a very steep price. If I'm Kahn, I pass on both the Netsand Knicks trade proposals.
I don't want Harris or Chandler....I know Harris is nice, but the #5, #6, and Craig Smith is a very steep price. If I'm Kahn, I pass on both the Netsand Knicks trade proposals.
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Don't like that.
Take Tyreke at 5... New York wouldn't move up for Flynn, I don't think, and Golden State isn't taking another PG...
So you end up with Tyreke and Flynn anyways, plus you add Wilson Chandler... Seems like a great deal to me, if they're sure NY doesn't want Flynn...
It was 2004...Originally Posted by JapanAir21
Yeah ever since 2004 I've been really disappointed with our picks (2004 was Harris right? Or was that 05?)
I have progressively become disinterested in what happens. I thought Terrence slipping to us at 22 was going to be nice, just as long as they don't $+$% it up. Now he's projected lottery, and then we move down to nearly the end of the first round?
I'm not excited at all.
Best case scenario as it stands right now is: Jeff Teague or Sam Young.
Teague is about the only thing that'll make me real happy at 24... Young would be solid, and I like him, but wouldn't be overly excited about him...
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That would be a very fun Rockets team to watch.
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If Amare gets traded today, the Suns will be unwatchable next season.
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Take Tyreke at 5... New York wouldn't move up for Flynn, I don't think, and Golden State isn't taking another PG...
So you end up with Tyreke and Flynn anyways, plus you add Wilson Chandler... Seems like a great deal to me, if they're sure NY doesn't want Flynn...
That's great value what are some of ya'll talking about? Chandler and the 8th for ONE of those picks?
