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Tyler.Originally Posted by Physicx
who will be the last person left in the green room?
:: Official 2009 NBA Draft Thread ::
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by jpzx,
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NT = prognosticators
I guess BangDak and LifeLessons knew what they were doing
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The following story appears in the June 29 issue of ESPN The Magazine.
As the NBA draft nears, The Mag's fine stable of writers tracked down a player representative from every team with a pick in the first round toparticipate in a full mock draft of the first 30 picks. Check out their selections below and, since you're a faithful Insider, enjoy Doug Gottlieb'sanalysis of the first 20 players picked.
[h3]1. Clippers/Ricky Davis select ...[/h3][h3]Blake Griffin, F, Oklahoma[/h3]
"He can give us a boost right away because he fits our style. He can step out and face bigs, and he can get inside. We need to push the ball and letBaron Davis do what he does best. Blake fits that," says forward Ricky Davis. "It's time for a change, and a No. 1 pick is the change we'relooking for."
Doug Says: "Griffin is a no-brainer pick."
[h3]2. Grizzlies/Rudy Gay select ...[/h3][h3]Hasheem Thabeet, C, Connecticut[/h3]
"He's a Husky," former UConn star and current Memphis forward Rudy Gay says of the 7'3" Thabeet. "He blocks shots, and likeevery team, we need a big man. He came from nothing and has turned into a really good player. I know because I saw him as a freshman."
Doug Says: "Thabeet isn't the best player in the draft, but he's definitely the best center."
[h3]3. Thunder/Russell Westbrook select ...[/h3][h3]James Harden, SG, Arizona State[/h3]
"He can handle, shoot and he's athletic. And he was in a good system at Arizona State," says guard Russell Westbrook, who likes the makeup ofthe 6'5" Harden. But don't get Westbrook started on sliding to the 2 so Oklahoma City can tap Spanish star Ricky Rubio. Says he: "You trippin'."
Doug Says: "Harden is the most refined two-guard in the lottery, but he'll have to learn to play at the next level."
[h3]4. Kings/Spencer Hawes select ...[/h3][h3]Ricky Rubio, PG, DKV Joventut[/h3]
"Wow, I thought he'd be off the board by now," says center Spencer Hawes. "There hasn't been a player with his passing ability orcourt vision since Magic. You'd think a skinny [6'4", 18![0]](/styles/default/xenforo/NTemojis/alien.gif "Alien 0]")
, young [18] guy would be a liability on defense, but his anticipation skills couldreally help our team."
Doug Says: "I love Rubio. He wont last this long, but if he does ... "
[h3]5. Wizards/Antawn Jamison select ...[/h3][h3]DeMar DeRozan, G/F, USC[/h3]
"He reminds me of Vince Carter as a Tar Heel -- the body, build, and athleticism," says forward Antawn Jamison, who played with VC in Chapel HIll."He could've been a top pick if we didn't have the age limit. But he'll benefit from the veterans, and in two or three years, he can be ahousehold name."
Doug Says: "DeRozan has a chance to be special. Let's hope he can develop better habits than Gilbert Arenas."
[h3]6. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Brandon Jennings, PG, Lottomatica Roma[/h3]
"We need a good 3, but since DeMar and Harden are off the board, I like Brandon," says forward Kevin Love. "I admire his passing, andI've been on the good -- and bad -- end of ones that resulted in dunks. Plus, he's a lefty, which makes him unorthodox and a tough matchup."
Brandon Says:"Kevin and I played AAU together, and we ran through teams led by Derrick Rose and O.J. Mayo. I think the fit with Minnywould be good."
Doug Says: "I've seen this movie before. It was called Stephon Marbury."
[h3]7. Warriors/Ronny Turiaf select ...[/h3][h3]Ty Lawson, PG, North Carolina[/h3]
"He's a tough-minded kid, can score in many ways and is an outstanding passer," says center Ronny Turiaf. "Ty can fill the point guardposition and allow Monta Ellis to get out on fast breaks. He's also an underrated defender. I can see Ty becoming a smaller version of ChaunceyBillups."
Doug Says: "Um, no. Lawson will be a terrific backup, but shouldn't go anywhere near this high."
[h3]8. Knicks/Quentin Richardson select ...[/h3][h3]Stephen Curry, G, Davidson[/h3]
"Curry led the nation in scoring. He's smart and fits perfectly in our system," says guard Quentin Richardson. "He may be a bit small[6'3", 185] but the dude is a giant on the court. He played with his pops, Dell, when he was a kid and really learned from him. Dell was a killer fromoutside."
Doug Says: "Curry can really shoot and will put people in the seats, but can they really win with him?"
[h3]9. Raptors/Anthony Parker select ...[/h3][h3]Tyreke Evans, SG, Memphis[/h3]
Evans' scoring and athletic ability won over fellow shooting guard Anthony Parker. "You can never have enough athletic scorers at the 2 in thisleague. He'll benefit from playing with a point like Jose Calderon, who will put him in position to score easy buckets."
Tyreke Says: "Toronto is a good situation, But i could see myself in the top five -- easy. Honestly, I'm glad the playersdon't get to pick."
Doug Says: "Sure, Evans can get to the rim whenever he wants, but can he finish?"
[h3]10. Bucks/Luc Richard Mbah a Moute select ...[/h3][h3]Jonny Flynn, PG, Syracuse[/h3]
"He's a very good point guard with athleticism, toughness and leadership qualities -- remember the Big East tournament?" opines small forwardLuc Richard Mbah a Moute. "Besides, depending on Ramon Sessions' contract situation, we may need a point guard, which is why I'd go forJonny."
Doug Says: "Flynn is a Kevin Johnson-type player who always competes."
[h3]11. Nets/Josh Boone select ...[/h3][h3]Terrence Williams, G/F, Louisville[/h3]
"The word is he's a toss-up, but watching him and playing against him, I think he's going to do very well in the NBA," says center JoshBoone "He runs the floor extremely well and is a great finisher on the break and in the halfcourt, which would fit in well with our up-temposystem."
Doug Says: "Williams is a good player who makes those around him better, but still a bit of a reach at this slot."
[h3]12. Bobcats/Ray Felton select ...[/h3][h3]Chase Budinger, G/F, Arizona[/h3]
"He's a scorer and can spread the floor for us," point guard Ray Felton says of Budinger, who put up 18 ppg last season. "We've gotRaja Bell. Add another deep threat and away we go. Chase is also athletic and runs, so he'll fit in perfectly since that's my game. I love torun."
Doug Says: "Budinger can really shoot but guards no one. He'd probably struggle with Larry Brown."
[h3]13. Pacers/Danny Granger select ...[/h3][h3]Jordan Hill, PF, Arizona[/h3]
"We need an athletic big man," says All-Star small forward Danny Granger. "Even though he's raw, I think he can help us right away.Sometimes you have guys who are polished but they lack size or athleticism. He's got both of those gifts, so it's just a matter of time. He's got alot of potential."
Doug Says: "An absolute steal this late. Hill is active, can really rebound and, best of all, is low-maintenance."
[h3]14. Suns/Grant Hill select ...[/h3][h3]Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke[/h3]
Without even spying the board, forward Grant Hill went with his loyalties. "I gotta go with my man from Duke, but Gerald's a Dukie who can play.He's 6'5" and athletic. The way we play up and down, he'll fit in well with Steve Nash, Amar'e Stoudemire and our young guys."
Gerald Says: "I worked out for Phoenix and I thought it went well, so there's a shot if I'm still on the board I could end upthere -- but I'd like to go higher."
Doug Says: "Henderson looks like Kobe and plays like a smaller, less-skilled Kobe, but will still be solid."
[h3]15. Pistons/Will Bynum select ...[/h3][h3]Omri Casspi, SF, Maccabi Tel Aviv[/h3]
"He's not going to back down from anybody," says guard Will Bynum. "Plus, he doesn't mind doing the little things on the court ittakes to win. Those are traits we're known for in Detroit, so he's a good fit. And he can shoot, handle it and pass. What more could youwant?"
Doug Says: "Casspi plays hard and is everything heart-wise that Darko was not."
[h3]16. Bulls/Lindsey Hunter select ...[/h3][h3]DeJuan Blair, C/PF, Pittsburgh[/h3]
"He's just a flat-out beast inside," says guard Lindsey Hunter. "He brings that brute force that could help us down low right now, onoffense and defense. I saw him play UConn, and he owned Hasheem Thabeet. But I like his soft touch around the basket. He's got the potential to score,too."
Doug Says: "His knees are definitely a question, but Blair is a beast."
[h3]17. 76ers/Donyell Marshall select ...[/h3][h3]Eric Maynor, PG, VCU[/h3]
"With Andre Miller a free agent and not knowing if he's going to re-sign, I'd select Maynor," says forward Donyell Marshall. At6'3", Maynor's height is an advantage for a point guard, Marshall says. Another advantage: Backup Lou Williams has little experience at point.
Doug Says: "Maynor is a leader and a good mid-range shooter and will develop into a solid NBA player."
[h3]18. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Austin Daye, F, Gonzaga[/h3]
"Austin's got potential," says Kevin Love. "He's a guy you can gamble on, like Anthony Randolph in Golden State. His upside is, at6'10", he's going to get better." The question is whether he'll get better in college or the NBA. He hasn't signed with an agent andmight return to Gonzaga.
Doug Says: "Daye is a project with upside, but he'll need to spend some time in the D-League."
[h3]19. Hawks/Mario West select ...[/h3][h3]Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech[/h3]
[Ed.'s Note: When West gave his pick for this Mag feature, Lawal was still eligible for the 2009 NBA draft.]
"Of course, Gani is a fellow Yellow Jacket," says guard Mario West. "He reminds me of my teammate Al Horford: strong and really active in thepaint. Plus, being a walk-on who went undrafted before making the league, I enjoy watching the draft and seeing guys get that opportunity."
Doug Says: "This would have been a good pick if Gawal were still in the draft."
[h3]20. Jazz/Kyle Korver select ...[/h3]
[h3]Jrue Holiday, G, UCLA[/h3]
"An important factor in any player we add is an unselfish mentality and high basketball IQ," says swingman Kyle Korver. "Holiday has both andhe likes to get after it on defense, making him a good fit for us. And at 6'4", he's versatile enough to play point or shooting guard."
Jrue Says: "I don't know why I fell that far, but I like the Jazz. Thank you, Kyle Korver. I got you. You'll be going for 30every night."
Doug Says: "If Holiday were to fall to the Jazz, it would be the deal of the century. Jrue would make Deron Williams the best PG inthe league."
[h3]21. Hornets/Tyson Chandler select ...[/h3][h3]Earl Clark, G/F, Louisville[/h3]
"Earl's length and energy will help us on both ends of the floor. I think he'll fit in, because we lack an explosive wing who can start a fastbreak," says center Tyson Chandler. "You know, I almost went with B.J. Mullens, the center from Ohio State, but I feel like we can pick up a big infree agency."
[h3]22. Mavericks/Josh Howard select ...[/h3][h3]James Johnson, PF, Wake Forest[/h3]
"James can do it all. He has size [6'8", 235] and speed, and he can play defense. He also went to Wake!" says forward Josh Howard, afellow Demon Deacon. What Howard's really going to like is an athletic big man on the Mavs' second unit who can run with José Juan Barea and JasonTerry.
[h3]23. Kings/Spencer Hawes select ...[/h3][h3]Jon Brockman, PF, Washington[/h3]
Being a Husky homer is a nonissue for center Spencer Hawes: "Jon is a rebounding monster. He had 50-something career double-doubles. Folks say he'sunder- sized [6'7", 255], but he's got the best motor of anyone I've ever run with. And we've got tall guys; what we need isbulk."
[h3]24. Blazers/Joel Przybilla select ...[/h3][h3]Tyler Hansbrough, PF, North Carolina[/h3]
"Hansbrough has been a winner all four years at North Carolina. We're a team that could use the maturity of a player like that," says centerJoel Przybilla. "We could also use another frontcourt player who is physical and plays hard. You can never have enough bigs."
[h3]25. Thunder/Russell Westbrook select ...[/h3][h3]B.J. Mullens, C, Ohio State[/h3]
With Stephen Curry off the table, Russell Westbrook thinks big will be best for the Thunder's second pick. "Mullens is a good rebounder and a big[seven feet, 275], strong presence inside. The way we're playing, we need help inside with rebounding and defense. That's the key for us."
[h3]26. Bulls/Lindsey Hunter select ...[/h3][h3]Wayne Ellington, SG, North Carolina[/h3]
"He's by far one of the best shooters in the draft," says reserve sniper Lindsey Hunter. "Coming off a pick, stop and pop, or catch andshoot, he's going to knock it down. He was great at Carolina, but now he'll have to create off the dribble. If he can do that, he'll be aforce."
[h3]27. Grizzlies/Rudy Gay select ...[/h3][h3]DaJuan Summers, F, Georgetown[/h3]
You can't say Rudy Gay isn't steady. He chose fellow UConn alum Hasheem Thabeet at No. 2, and here Gay picks the Big East and size again withSummers (6'8", 240). "DaJuan can play multiple positions for us. Plus, he's from Baltimore, so you know he's tough!" says Gay, aB-More native.
[h3]28. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Josh Heytvelt, PF/C, Gonzaga[/h3]
Here's the pick that completes the KG 7-for-1 deal with the Celts in 2007. Back then, Kevin Love was finishing up high school in Oregon. "Beingfrom the Northwest, I've seen Josh play," Love says. "He can help as an inside presence and give us depth in our frontcourt rotation."
[h3]29. Lakers/Jordan Farmar select ...[/h3][h3]Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh[/h3]
"Phil Jackson likes long, strong, athletic players and that's Sam," guard Jordan Farmar says. "He can shoot from long range or take it tothe basket. Plus, he played for Jamie Dixon, a protégé of Ben Howland, my coach at UCLA. So he cares about defense."
Sam Says: "I'm figuring to go between 15 and 25, but i'd love to be in LA with Kobe. Wow, that would be a dream."
[h3]30. Cavaliers/Daniel Gibson select ...[/h3][h3]Derrick Brown, PF, Xavier[/h3]
"I'm rolling with Derrick Brown, from Xavier. He's an Ohio native," says guard Daniel Gibson. "But what I like is he's aversatile player who would help us with his Lamar Odom-like skills and shooting ability. He'll open up the floor, and add to a roster that is already fullof playmakers."
As the NBA draft nears, The Mag's fine stable of writers tracked down a player representative from every team with a pick in the first round toparticipate in a full mock draft of the first 30 picks. Check out their selections below and, since you're a faithful Insider, enjoy Doug Gottlieb'sanalysis of the first 20 players picked.
[h3]1. Clippers/Ricky Davis select ...[/h3][h3]Blake Griffin, F, Oklahoma[/h3]
"He can give us a boost right away because he fits our style. He can step out and face bigs, and he can get inside. We need to push the ball and letBaron Davis do what he does best. Blake fits that," says forward Ricky Davis. "It's time for a change, and a No. 1 pick is the change we'relooking for."
Doug Says: "Griffin is a no-brainer pick."
[h3]2. Grizzlies/Rudy Gay select ...[/h3][h3]Hasheem Thabeet, C, Connecticut[/h3]
"He's a Husky," former UConn star and current Memphis forward Rudy Gay says of the 7'3" Thabeet. "He blocks shots, and likeevery team, we need a big man. He came from nothing and has turned into a really good player. I know because I saw him as a freshman."
Doug Says: "Thabeet isn't the best player in the draft, but he's definitely the best center."
[h3]3. Thunder/Russell Westbrook select ...[/h3][h3]James Harden, SG, Arizona State[/h3]
"He can handle, shoot and he's athletic. And he was in a good system at Arizona State," says guard Russell Westbrook, who likes the makeup ofthe 6'5" Harden. But don't get Westbrook started on sliding to the 2 so Oklahoma City can tap Spanish star Ricky Rubio. Says he: "You trippin'."
Doug Says: "Harden is the most refined two-guard in the lottery, but he'll have to learn to play at the next level."
[h3]4. Kings/Spencer Hawes select ...[/h3][h3]Ricky Rubio, PG, DKV Joventut[/h3]
"Wow, I thought he'd be off the board by now," says center Spencer Hawes. "There hasn't been a player with his passing ability orcourt vision since Magic. You'd think a skinny [6'4", 18
, young [18] guy would be a liability on defense, but his anticipation skills couldreally help our team."Doug Says: "I love Rubio. He wont last this long, but if he does ... "
[h3]5. Wizards/Antawn Jamison select ...[/h3][h3]DeMar DeRozan, G/F, USC[/h3]
"He reminds me of Vince Carter as a Tar Heel -- the body, build, and athleticism," says forward Antawn Jamison, who played with VC in Chapel HIll."He could've been a top pick if we didn't have the age limit. But he'll benefit from the veterans, and in two or three years, he can be ahousehold name."
Doug Says: "DeRozan has a chance to be special. Let's hope he can develop better habits than Gilbert Arenas."
[h3]6. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Brandon Jennings, PG, Lottomatica Roma[/h3]
"We need a good 3, but since DeMar and Harden are off the board, I like Brandon," says forward Kevin Love. "I admire his passing, andI've been on the good -- and bad -- end of ones that resulted in dunks. Plus, he's a lefty, which makes him unorthodox and a tough matchup."
Brandon Says:"Kevin and I played AAU together, and we ran through teams led by Derrick Rose and O.J. Mayo. I think the fit with Minnywould be good."
Doug Says: "I've seen this movie before. It was called Stephon Marbury."
[h3]7. Warriors/Ronny Turiaf select ...[/h3][h3]Ty Lawson, PG, North Carolina[/h3]
"He's a tough-minded kid, can score in many ways and is an outstanding passer," says center Ronny Turiaf. "Ty can fill the point guardposition and allow Monta Ellis to get out on fast breaks. He's also an underrated defender. I can see Ty becoming a smaller version of ChaunceyBillups."
Doug Says: "Um, no. Lawson will be a terrific backup, but shouldn't go anywhere near this high."
[h3]8. Knicks/Quentin Richardson select ...[/h3][h3]Stephen Curry, G, Davidson[/h3]
"Curry led the nation in scoring. He's smart and fits perfectly in our system," says guard Quentin Richardson. "He may be a bit small[6'3", 185] but the dude is a giant on the court. He played with his pops, Dell, when he was a kid and really learned from him. Dell was a killer fromoutside."
Doug Says: "Curry can really shoot and will put people in the seats, but can they really win with him?"
[h3]9. Raptors/Anthony Parker select ...[/h3][h3]Tyreke Evans, SG, Memphis[/h3]
Evans' scoring and athletic ability won over fellow shooting guard Anthony Parker. "You can never have enough athletic scorers at the 2 in thisleague. He'll benefit from playing with a point like Jose Calderon, who will put him in position to score easy buckets."
Tyreke Says: "Toronto is a good situation, But i could see myself in the top five -- easy. Honestly, I'm glad the playersdon't get to pick."
Doug Says: "Sure, Evans can get to the rim whenever he wants, but can he finish?"
[h3]10. Bucks/Luc Richard Mbah a Moute select ...[/h3][h3]Jonny Flynn, PG, Syracuse[/h3]
"He's a very good point guard with athleticism, toughness and leadership qualities -- remember the Big East tournament?" opines small forwardLuc Richard Mbah a Moute. "Besides, depending on Ramon Sessions' contract situation, we may need a point guard, which is why I'd go forJonny."
Doug Says: "Flynn is a Kevin Johnson-type player who always competes."
[h3]11. Nets/Josh Boone select ...[/h3][h3]Terrence Williams, G/F, Louisville[/h3]
"The word is he's a toss-up, but watching him and playing against him, I think he's going to do very well in the NBA," says center JoshBoone "He runs the floor extremely well and is a great finisher on the break and in the halfcourt, which would fit in well with our up-temposystem."
Doug Says: "Williams is a good player who makes those around him better, but still a bit of a reach at this slot."
[h3]12. Bobcats/Ray Felton select ...[/h3][h3]Chase Budinger, G/F, Arizona[/h3]
"He's a scorer and can spread the floor for us," point guard Ray Felton says of Budinger, who put up 18 ppg last season. "We've gotRaja Bell. Add another deep threat and away we go. Chase is also athletic and runs, so he'll fit in perfectly since that's my game. I love torun."
Doug Says: "Budinger can really shoot but guards no one. He'd probably struggle with Larry Brown."
[h3]13. Pacers/Danny Granger select ...[/h3][h3]Jordan Hill, PF, Arizona[/h3]
"We need an athletic big man," says All-Star small forward Danny Granger. "Even though he's raw, I think he can help us right away.Sometimes you have guys who are polished but they lack size or athleticism. He's got both of those gifts, so it's just a matter of time. He's got alot of potential."
Doug Says: "An absolute steal this late. Hill is active, can really rebound and, best of all, is low-maintenance."
[h3]14. Suns/Grant Hill select ...[/h3][h3]Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke[/h3]
Without even spying the board, forward Grant Hill went with his loyalties. "I gotta go with my man from Duke, but Gerald's a Dukie who can play.He's 6'5" and athletic. The way we play up and down, he'll fit in well with Steve Nash, Amar'e Stoudemire and our young guys."
Gerald Says: "I worked out for Phoenix and I thought it went well, so there's a shot if I'm still on the board I could end upthere -- but I'd like to go higher."
Doug Says: "Henderson looks like Kobe and plays like a smaller, less-skilled Kobe, but will still be solid."
[h3]15. Pistons/Will Bynum select ...[/h3][h3]Omri Casspi, SF, Maccabi Tel Aviv[/h3]
"He's not going to back down from anybody," says guard Will Bynum. "Plus, he doesn't mind doing the little things on the court ittakes to win. Those are traits we're known for in Detroit, so he's a good fit. And he can shoot, handle it and pass. What more could youwant?"
Doug Says: "Casspi plays hard and is everything heart-wise that Darko was not."
[h3]16. Bulls/Lindsey Hunter select ...[/h3][h3]DeJuan Blair, C/PF, Pittsburgh[/h3]
"He's just a flat-out beast inside," says guard Lindsey Hunter. "He brings that brute force that could help us down low right now, onoffense and defense. I saw him play UConn, and he owned Hasheem Thabeet. But I like his soft touch around the basket. He's got the potential to score,too."
Doug Says: "His knees are definitely a question, but Blair is a beast."
[h3]17. 76ers/Donyell Marshall select ...[/h3][h3]Eric Maynor, PG, VCU[/h3]
"With Andre Miller a free agent and not knowing if he's going to re-sign, I'd select Maynor," says forward Donyell Marshall. At6'3", Maynor's height is an advantage for a point guard, Marshall says. Another advantage: Backup Lou Williams has little experience at point.
Doug Says: "Maynor is a leader and a good mid-range shooter and will develop into a solid NBA player."
[h3]18. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Austin Daye, F, Gonzaga[/h3]
"Austin's got potential," says Kevin Love. "He's a guy you can gamble on, like Anthony Randolph in Golden State. His upside is, at6'10", he's going to get better." The question is whether he'll get better in college or the NBA. He hasn't signed with an agent andmight return to Gonzaga.
Doug Says: "Daye is a project with upside, but he'll need to spend some time in the D-League."
[h3]19. Hawks/Mario West select ...[/h3][h3]Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech[/h3]
[Ed.'s Note: When West gave his pick for this Mag feature, Lawal was still eligible for the 2009 NBA draft.]
"Of course, Gani is a fellow Yellow Jacket," says guard Mario West. "He reminds me of my teammate Al Horford: strong and really active in thepaint. Plus, being a walk-on who went undrafted before making the league, I enjoy watching the draft and seeing guys get that opportunity."
Doug Says: "This would have been a good pick if Gawal were still in the draft."
[h3]20. Jazz/Kyle Korver select ...[/h3]
[h3]Jrue Holiday, G, UCLA[/h3]
"An important factor in any player we add is an unselfish mentality and high basketball IQ," says swingman Kyle Korver. "Holiday has both andhe likes to get after it on defense, making him a good fit for us. And at 6'4", he's versatile enough to play point or shooting guard."
Jrue Says: "I don't know why I fell that far, but I like the Jazz. Thank you, Kyle Korver. I got you. You'll be going for 30every night."
Doug Says: "If Holiday were to fall to the Jazz, it would be the deal of the century. Jrue would make Deron Williams the best PG inthe league."
[h3]21. Hornets/Tyson Chandler select ...[/h3][h3]Earl Clark, G/F, Louisville[/h3]
"Earl's length and energy will help us on both ends of the floor. I think he'll fit in, because we lack an explosive wing who can start a fastbreak," says center Tyson Chandler. "You know, I almost went with B.J. Mullens, the center from Ohio State, but I feel like we can pick up a big infree agency."
[h3]22. Mavericks/Josh Howard select ...[/h3][h3]James Johnson, PF, Wake Forest[/h3]
"James can do it all. He has size [6'8", 235] and speed, and he can play defense. He also went to Wake!" says forward Josh Howard, afellow Demon Deacon. What Howard's really going to like is an athletic big man on the Mavs' second unit who can run with José Juan Barea and JasonTerry.
[h3]23. Kings/Spencer Hawes select ...[/h3][h3]Jon Brockman, PF, Washington[/h3]
Being a Husky homer is a nonissue for center Spencer Hawes: "Jon is a rebounding monster. He had 50-something career double-doubles. Folks say he'sunder- sized [6'7", 255], but he's got the best motor of anyone I've ever run with. And we've got tall guys; what we need isbulk."
[h3]24. Blazers/Joel Przybilla select ...[/h3][h3]Tyler Hansbrough, PF, North Carolina[/h3]
"Hansbrough has been a winner all four years at North Carolina. We're a team that could use the maturity of a player like that," says centerJoel Przybilla. "We could also use another frontcourt player who is physical and plays hard. You can never have enough bigs."
[h3]25. Thunder/Russell Westbrook select ...[/h3][h3]B.J. Mullens, C, Ohio State[/h3]
With Stephen Curry off the table, Russell Westbrook thinks big will be best for the Thunder's second pick. "Mullens is a good rebounder and a big[seven feet, 275], strong presence inside. The way we're playing, we need help inside with rebounding and defense. That's the key for us."
[h3]26. Bulls/Lindsey Hunter select ...[/h3][h3]Wayne Ellington, SG, North Carolina[/h3]
"He's by far one of the best shooters in the draft," says reserve sniper Lindsey Hunter. "Coming off a pick, stop and pop, or catch andshoot, he's going to knock it down. He was great at Carolina, but now he'll have to create off the dribble. If he can do that, he'll be aforce."
[h3]27. Grizzlies/Rudy Gay select ...[/h3][h3]DaJuan Summers, F, Georgetown[/h3]
You can't say Rudy Gay isn't steady. He chose fellow UConn alum Hasheem Thabeet at No. 2, and here Gay picks the Big East and size again withSummers (6'8", 240). "DaJuan can play multiple positions for us. Plus, he's from Baltimore, so you know he's tough!" says Gay, aB-More native.
[h3]28. Timberwolves/Kevin Love select ...[/h3][h3]Josh Heytvelt, PF/C, Gonzaga[/h3]
Here's the pick that completes the KG 7-for-1 deal with the Celts in 2007. Back then, Kevin Love was finishing up high school in Oregon. "Beingfrom the Northwest, I've seen Josh play," Love says. "He can help as an inside presence and give us depth in our frontcourt rotation."
[h3]29. Lakers/Jordan Farmar select ...[/h3][h3]Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh[/h3]
"Phil Jackson likes long, strong, athletic players and that's Sam," guard Jordan Farmar says. "He can shoot from long range or take it tothe basket. Plus, he played for Jamie Dixon, a protégé of Ben Howland, my coach at UCLA. So he cares about defense."
Sam Says: "I'm figuring to go between 15 and 25, but i'd love to be in LA with Kobe. Wow, that would be a dream."
[h3]30. Cavaliers/Daniel Gibson select ...[/h3][h3]Derrick Brown, PF, Xavier[/h3]
"I'm rolling with Derrick Brown, from Xavier. He's an Ohio native," says guard Daniel Gibson. "But what I like is he's aversatile player who would help us with his Lamar Odom-like skills and shooting ability. He'll open up the floor, and add to a roster that is already fullof playmakers."
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Tyreke Says: "Toronto is a good situation, But i could see myself in the top five -- easy. Honestly, I'm glad the players don't get to pick."
Get em' Tyreke
Doug Says: "Henderson looks like Kobe and plays like a smaller, less-skilled Kobe, but will still be solid."
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everyone is comparing henderson to kobe tho and it does say less skilled
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LOL if Chase goes before Jordan
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Andray Blatche is a less-skilled KG
Reggie Ball is a less-skilled John Elway
it goes on and on....GH shouldn't be mentioned in the same breath as Kobe unless they are talking about their PA roots...
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No Teague?
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Says he: "You trippin'."
.
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might not have a choice lol....... should be working on strickly jumpers this off season nothing else
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It'll potentially be a looooooooong night for Holiday.Originally Posted by Physicx
who will be the last person left in the green room?
If a couple teams pass on him early, its curtains!
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^ he's gonna get the brady quinn treatment
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The NBA has released the list of fifteen players that will be attending Thursday's NBA Draft in New York City.
Stephen Curry (Davidson), Austin Daye (Gonzaga), DeMar DeRozan (USC), Tyreke Evans (Memphis), Jonny Flynn (Syracuse), Blake Griffin (Oklahoma), TylerHansbrough (North Carolina), James Harden (Arizona State), Gerald Henderson (Duke), Jordan Hill (Arizona), Jrue Holiday (UCLA), Brandon Jennings (LottomaticaVirtus Roma, Italy), Ricky Rubio (DKV Joventut Badalona, Spain), Hasheem Thabeet (UConn), and Terrence Williams (Louisville) will attend.
I'll say it's between Daye and Hansbrough get drafted last.
Stephen Curry (Davidson), Austin Daye (Gonzaga), DeMar DeRozan (USC), Tyreke Evans (Memphis), Jonny Flynn (Syracuse), Blake Griffin (Oklahoma), TylerHansbrough (North Carolina), James Harden (Arizona State), Gerald Henderson (Duke), Jordan Hill (Arizona), Jrue Holiday (UCLA), Brandon Jennings (LottomaticaVirtus Roma, Italy), Ricky Rubio (DKV Joventut Badalona, Spain), Hasheem Thabeet (UConn), and Terrence Williams (Louisville) will attend.
I'll say it's between Daye and Hansbrough get drafted last.
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Chris Wallace was on Jim Rome today and here was some of the stuff I've got out of it:
- When asked about who are the candidates for the #2 overall pick, he talked about Rubio for a good 20 to 30 seconds, talked about Tyreke for a good while,talked about Harden next, and then he simply acknowledged Thabeet as "the shotblocking center out of UCONN" and moved on to talk about Demar Derozan.
- I am convinced that Wallace is completely sold on Ricky Rubio and that if the decision was soley his to make, he would select and keep Rubio.
- When asked about picking the best player available or drafting for need, he mentioned our backcourt guys as "Mike Conley and OJ Mayo". When hetalked about the meeting in Spain with Rubio, he said (paraphrasing) "Me and Lionel went over there to meet with him and his family and also ourSTARTING CENTER Marc Gasol Could there ever be a bigger hint in the entire world?
- He said that we are talking BPA no matter what. He said with the #2 pick you have to go for the most talent.
He also mentioned that positioning doesn't matter, Rubio not wanting to come here doesn't matter, and Rubio's buyout doesn't matter. I'mstarting to have more hope that we will end up with Rubio on draft night. Whether or not he's traded is still pending.
- When asked about who are the candidates for the #2 overall pick, he talked about Rubio for a good 20 to 30 seconds, talked about Tyreke for a good while,talked about Harden next, and then he simply acknowledged Thabeet as "the shotblocking center out of UCONN" and moved on to talk about Demar Derozan.
- I am convinced that Wallace is completely sold on Ricky Rubio and that if the decision was soley his to make, he would select and keep Rubio.
- When asked about picking the best player available or drafting for need, he mentioned our backcourt guys as "Mike Conley and OJ Mayo". When hetalked about the meeting in Spain with Rubio, he said (paraphrasing) "Me and Lionel went over there to meet with him and his family and also ourSTARTING CENTER Marc Gasol Could there ever be a bigger hint in the entire world?
- He said that we are talking BPA no matter what. He said with the #2 pick you have to go for the most talent.
He also mentioned that positioning doesn't matter, Rubio not wanting to come here doesn't matter, and Rubio's buyout doesn't matter. I'mstarting to have more hope that we will end up with Rubio on draft night. Whether or not he's traded is still pending.
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or like everything else its a smokescreen to draft Jennings
Naw but Mr. Wallace knows what to say to keep fans guessing
Naw but Mr. Wallace knows what to say to keep fans guessing
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I really think Terrence is gone by 12..
And Thunder are good as long as they pick either Harden or Thabeet.
If they choose Thabeet, Thabo (Thabo, Thabeet, confusing as hell
) can fill in the 2 just fine, they don't need an absolute stud at EACH position.
If they choose Harden, Krstic will do fine.
And Thunder are good as long as they pick either Harden or Thabeet.
If they choose Thabeet, Thabo (Thabo, Thabeet, confusing as hell
If they choose Harden, Krstic will do fine.
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^krstic will do fine, he always has. BUT they need some extra depth at the 5 position. i think the best pick talent wise is harden, though i feel they needthabeet more than harden.
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Thabeet needs a tough 4 man next to him to clean the glass and man the paint with him
As good as Jeff is, he is not that due to size.
If a team feels like they can just throw Thabeet out there to be a 1 man line of defense, they're gona have a huge bust on their hands in 2 years.
As good as Jeff is, he is not that due to size.
If a team feels like they can just throw Thabeet out there to be a 1 man line of defense, they're gona have a huge bust on their hands in 2 years.
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Where's Chirs Wilcox at?
Collison is decent, but he won't be getting most of the minutes alongside Thabeet.
That's why Nene/Kenyon work so well in Denver.
Thabeet is great if you can find another piece to go with him, while Harden pretty much solidifies what you want from the draft. They'll still be weak onthe frontline, but Harden will hold you over for now IMO.
Collison is decent, but he won't be getting most of the minutes alongside Thabeet.
That's why Nene/Kenyon work so well in Denver.
Thabeet is great if you can find another piece to go with him, while Harden pretty much solidifies what you want from the draft. They'll still be weak onthe frontline, but Harden will hold you over for now IMO.
jpzx
Supporter
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Thabeet next Al Jefferson
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the thing about jennings is he can be successful as a pass first or a scoring first...which is why he has the most upside of any point guard in the draft.
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am i the only one that everytime i see Jordan Hill clips/workouts the more i like him(pause nh)?!
I think he has the skills to be a rebounding machine...i see a skinnier Elton Brand...i think this guy can make it
I think he has the skills to be a rebounding machine...i see a skinnier Elton Brand...i think this guy can make it
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I like Hill's build, I'm not sure if his skill-set is NBA-ready.
He could be a nice project.
He could be a nice project.
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On Mike and Mike podcast, Chad Ford was on there blasting Thabeet. He said Thabeet is way to slow in his thought process offensively and that you might as wellaccept that you will be playing 4 on 5 on the offensive end. Yet, he wants Memphis to waste the 2nd pick on him. I guess since they think the Grizz are stupid,then its good to pick Thabeet at no.2.
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he is making a mock on who he thinks the team will pick not what he would do.