It's time to look at tonight's draft a mere 105 minutes before Anthony Davis is taken #1. Too many trades are unknown and probably going to happen to do a full mock draft, which, I love because I have a deep affection for trades, but when the #2 pick has a 50-50 chance of being traded, it will ruin a mock draft pretty quickly. I am ranking my top 10 players and will throw in some more takes on tonight.
My Top 10
1. Anthony Davis -- Love his game. Few things are better than a good post player. I think he sacrificed his offensive game at Kentucky and can have a good to great offensive game in the pros. Watch Andy Katz's interview, he was recruited as a 3-point shooter before he grew 7", the man is going to be a great professional for a long time.
Best fit: Any where, Nola is going to be very happy
2. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist -- I watched a lot of Kentucky games and MKG always leaped out of the television. He can do it all and should be the #2 pick (I'll get to Beal next). Versatility on defense and rebounding will ensure a long career in this league, add his motor and a good offensive game and you're getting a future star.
Best fit: I like him in Washington but Charlotte would be smart to take him as well
3. Bradley Beal -- He can shoot and take it ball to the hoop off of a ball fake. I think comparing him to Ray Allen is a little much but I do agree that judging him fully on his time at Florida is wrong. It wasn't a good fit, he was surrounded by ball hogs and played out of position, hard to judge a player (especially a freshman) solely on what he does in this type of situation.
Best fit: Any where because he can shoot and plays the 2, Washington would be a great fit though
4. Thomas Robinson -- This man works his a** off and can rebound. Those two qualities will keep you in the league, add a good offensive game and you're golden. I see him as a sure thing and would be a great fit in Charlotte whether they draft him at #2 or if they can drop back and get him at #4.
Best fit: Charlotte
5. Harrison Barnes -- People are comparing him to MKG and I see the similarities but he's not on his level. Great shooter who needs a good PG is a decent combination but shouldn't be in the top 4. He has a clutch gene and that is something you cannot coach. If he goes 5th however, I hate the fit with him and Sacramento.
Best fit: Cleveland, he would flurish with Kyrie
6. Damian Lillard -- He won't go this high but a 6' 3" experienced PG who can score is a rare find and should be valuable to any team. You could switch my picks 6, 7, and 8 on any given day but I put him here because Portland would be smart to take him.
Best fit: Portland
7. Dion Waiters -- It's amazing to me that a guy who never started in college will be drafted in the top 10 but that's what's going to happen. I put him and Lillard on the same level and could see Portland taking either but Lillard gets the nod since he is a truer PG.
Best fit: Portland
8. Austin Rivers -- Love his game, it fits the NBA, it didn't fit Duke. Simple as that. I think he goes high and I think he has everything he needs to be the best player on a playoff contender. I don't see him as the best player on a championship team but he should be able to take any of these teams with early picks to the playoffs in a couple years. If he falls to the Hornets at #10, it would ensure them of a bright future. I'm leaning towards wanting this to happen but it probably shouldn't.
Best fit: Nola
9. Andre Drummond -- You can't coach height nor athleticism. Drummond has both and that's the only reason he's this high. Disappointing season at UConn is overshadowed by great potential. He would be a great choice for Houston to trade up for whether for themselves or for Orlando in exchange for Dwight Howard. Golden State wouldn't be a bad choice because they have lacked the size to compete for the last couple of years though a great trade for Andrew Bogut might have fixed that.
Best fit: Houston (or Orlando)
10. Meyers Leonard -- I think this kid can play. I watched him at Illinois and I really like what he can do as a 7 footer. I know this is too high for him to go tonight but I like him enough to take a flyer on him in my top 10. I think he can be a solid starter on a contending team.
Best fit: Boston, Rondo makes everyone better
Grab Yourself a 7 Footer
This draft has four 7 footers that could go in the first round. I definitely see Fab Melo going late in the first. There are 2 or 3 more that could go in the second round. The Heat erased the notion that you need a big man to win a championship on the surface. But Bosh was necessary for them to win and a solid 7 footer on any team will only be an asset. So go get yourself one tonight.
Second Round Steals
Watch for Doron Lamb because, simply, the kid can shoot. He got overshadowed on a stacked Kentucky team but, if John Wall's Kentucky team had Lamb on it, Wall would have himself a championship ring. Shooting was the only thing that team lacked. It makes bad teams good and good teams great. Someone will get a steal when they draft this Lamb.
Other notables: Festus Ezeli, Jeff Taylor, John Jenkins, Robbie Hummel
Five Tool Players
Royce White and Draymond Green -- You're heard of five tool players in baseball, well these guys are the equivalent of five tool guys for baseball. They're big, they play hard, they rebound, they post, they pass, they can dribble, they can shoot... They're coaches' dream players. Two organizations will hit homeruns mid to late in the draft by picking one of these guys.
Draft Night MVP
Houston -- Whatever happens tonight, Houston is my MVP of this draft. Best case scenario: get Dwight Howard and Deron Williams. Medium case scenario: get Andre Drummond and a good verteran. Worst case: draft 3 players with picks in the teens of a loaded draft. It is going to be hard for them to screw it up and I can't wait to see how they finish this exciting week for them.
Sneaky Potential: Boston -- two picks in the 20's, watch out for some interesting movement
Bowtie Perdictions
Most wanted #1: Meyers Leonard -- big man, little tie
Most wanted #2: Austin Rivers -- looks like a man who can pull it off (P.S. I hope his dad is able to be with him in the green room)
Most wanted #3: Draymond Green -- won't be in the green room but I hope he is either in the stands or is wearing one at home
Sneaky pick: Damian Lillard -- Weber State represent!
Highest Drafted: Bradley Beal -- that outfit during during interviews screamed bowtie potential
Least wanted: Tyler Zeller -- don't ruin this trend
The Frattiest NBA Draft Blog in the World. We dedicate this blog to the NBA Draft, love of bow ties, and the brave who mix both.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Wrapping up 2011
Before I get into this year's draft I need to spend some time reflecting on 2011. Like I said, I went 3 for 30 on picks and I hope I don't lose too much of my non-existant draft-cred by have two of the three correct perdictions coming off of picks made by David Kahn and the Timberwolves. They did start the season looking like they could make the playoffs thanks to one Ricky Rube. Anyways, let's get this wrapped up so we can move on...
Best Draft:
UTAH JAZZ -- It's easy to pick a team who had two picks but the Jazz legitimately picked two solid players that should help them for many years. They took Enes Kanter at 3 and Alec Burkes at 12. Burkes contributed more during the season but Kanter and Favors set the Jazz up for a potentially great front line for years too come.
Notible Mentions:
NJ NETS -- This is part hindsight but turning the #27 pick in JuJuan Johnson into a trade for Marshon Brooks was huge and a no-brainer if you're the Nets front office.
WASHINTON WIZARDS -- I had Chris Singleton going high in this draft and the Wizards got him at with the 19th pick. That alone is worthy of a good draft grade but it looks like Jan Vesely will be a solid player and getting his girlfriend courtside for every game is a must.
Head Scratcher:
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS -- I don't understand taking Tristian Thompson at #4. I get you need a big man and you hit a homerun with Irving but trading back would have been a solid option or at least getting someone more save. I was shocked when I heard this pick announced and will wait a couple years to say, "I told you so," but it doesn't make sense a year later much less that night.
I Told You So:
KAWHI LEONARD -- I will not wait a couple years beforing labeling this pick my "I told you so pick." In my mock draft, Leonard went to Washington at #6. I understand them taking Vesley because he fell to them but I don't understand Leonard dropping to #15 and apparently neither did the Spurs. They jumped in for a trade sending George Hill to Indiana for Leonard (not a bad trade for Indiana). Leonard only went on start for the team with the best record in the league, hit several clutch 3's in the playoffs, and as good as a rookie could probably do in guarding Kevin Durant in the playoffs. How did he drop all the way to #15?
My Worst Perdiction:
JOSH SELBY -- I had a couple bad calls but I was about 20 picks off on this one. He saved some face by getting more minutes than some who were drafted ahead of him but this perdiction was atrocious and I will admit it.
Second Round Love:
CHANDLER PARSONS -- Loved him before the draft and he showed up this year. He has a bright future in this league (I can't claim he'll be great in Houston because who knows who will be on their roster after tonight?) and will be a good player for years to come.
Rookie Of The Year:
KYRIE IRVING -- Great season. Hope the concussion issues don't bother him in the future. And a great YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnKOc6FISU
My Favorite Rookie:
RICKY RUBIO -- This man can BALL and I love it. I hope he and Kevin Love play together for 10+ years and become the best pick-and-pop combo ever. I've never fully considered buying a legit NBA jersey (for the main fact that it doesn;t work well for white people) but one day I might buy Rubio's.
Best Draft:
UTAH JAZZ -- It's easy to pick a team who had two picks but the Jazz legitimately picked two solid players that should help them for many years. They took Enes Kanter at 3 and Alec Burkes at 12. Burkes contributed more during the season but Kanter and Favors set the Jazz up for a potentially great front line for years too come.
Notible Mentions:
NJ NETS -- This is part hindsight but turning the #27 pick in JuJuan Johnson into a trade for Marshon Brooks was huge and a no-brainer if you're the Nets front office.
WASHINTON WIZARDS -- I had Chris Singleton going high in this draft and the Wizards got him at with the 19th pick. That alone is worthy of a good draft grade but it looks like Jan Vesely will be a solid player and getting his girlfriend courtside for every game is a must.
Head Scratcher:
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS -- I don't understand taking Tristian Thompson at #4. I get you need a big man and you hit a homerun with Irving but trading back would have been a solid option or at least getting someone more save. I was shocked when I heard this pick announced and will wait a couple years to say, "I told you so," but it doesn't make sense a year later much less that night.
I Told You So:
KAWHI LEONARD -- I will not wait a couple years beforing labeling this pick my "I told you so pick." In my mock draft, Leonard went to Washington at #6. I understand them taking Vesley because he fell to them but I don't understand Leonard dropping to #15 and apparently neither did the Spurs. They jumped in for a trade sending George Hill to Indiana for Leonard (not a bad trade for Indiana). Leonard only went on start for the team with the best record in the league, hit several clutch 3's in the playoffs, and as good as a rookie could probably do in guarding Kevin Durant in the playoffs. How did he drop all the way to #15?
My Worst Perdiction:
JOSH SELBY -- I had a couple bad calls but I was about 20 picks off on this one. He saved some face by getting more minutes than some who were drafted ahead of him but this perdiction was atrocious and I will admit it.
Second Round Love:
CHANDLER PARSONS -- Loved him before the draft and he showed up this year. He has a bright future in this league (I can't claim he'll be great in Houston because who knows who will be on their roster after tonight?) and will be a good player for years to come.
Rookie Of The Year:
KYRIE IRVING -- Great season. Hope the concussion issues don't bother him in the future. And a great YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnKOc6FISU
My Favorite Rookie:
RICKY RUBIO -- This man can BALL and I love it. I hope he and Kevin Love play together for 10+ years and become the best pick-and-pop combo ever. I've never fully considered buying a legit NBA jersey (for the main fact that it doesn;t work well for white people) but one day I might buy Rubio's.
Monday, June 25, 2012
2011 Reality vs. Mock
2011 NBA Draft
In my first try of a mock draft, I went 3 for 30. Here is a list of the picks. Mine will be italicised
1. CLE: Kyrie Iving, Kyrie Irving***
2. MIN: Derrick Williams, Derrick Williams***
3. UTA: Enes Canter, Brandon Knight
4. CLE: Tristan Thompson, Enes Kanter
5. TOR: Jonas Valanciunas, Jan Vesley
6. WSH: Jan Vesly, Kawhi Leonard
7. SAC: Bismack Biyombo (sent to CHA for Fredette), Kemba Walker
8. DET: Brandon Knight, Alec Burkes
9. CHA: Kemba Walker, Jonas Valaciunas
10. MIL: Jimmer Fredette (sent to SAC for S. Jackson), Jordan Hamilton
11. GS: Klay Thompson, Tristan Thompson
12. UTA: Alec Burkes, Chris Singleton
13. PHX: Markieff Morris, Jimmer Fredette
14. HOU: Marcus Morris, Nikola Vucevic
15. IND: Kwahi Leonard (sent to SA for G. Hill), Bismack Biyombo
16. PHI: Nikola Vucevic, Marcus Morris
17. NY: Iman Shumpert, Klay Thompson
18. WSH: Chris Singleton, Marshon Brooks
19. CHA: Tobias Harris, Josh Selby
20. MIN: Donatas Motiejunas, Donatas Motiejunas***
21. POR: Nolan Smith, Reggie Jackson
22. DEN: Kenneth Faried, Tobias Harris
23. HOU: Nikola Mirotic, Darrius Morris
24. OKC: Reggie Jackson, Kenneth Faried
25. BOS: Marshon Brooks (sent to NJ for J. Johnson), Jordan Williams
26. DAL: Jordan Hamilton, Markieff Morris
27. NJ: JaJuan Johnson (sent to BOS for M. Brooks), Nikola Mirotic
28. CHI: Norris Cole (sent to MIA), Tyler Huneycutt
29. SA: Corey Joseph, David Bertans
30. CHI: Jimmy Butler, Norris Cole
In my first try of a mock draft, I went 3 for 30. Here is a list of the picks. Mine will be italicised
1. CLE: Kyrie Iving, Kyrie Irving***
2. MIN: Derrick Williams, Derrick Williams***
3. UTA: Enes Canter, Brandon Knight
4. CLE: Tristan Thompson, Enes Kanter
5. TOR: Jonas Valanciunas, Jan Vesley
6. WSH: Jan Vesly, Kawhi Leonard
7. SAC: Bismack Biyombo (sent to CHA for Fredette), Kemba Walker
8. DET: Brandon Knight, Alec Burkes
9. CHA: Kemba Walker, Jonas Valaciunas
10. MIL: Jimmer Fredette (sent to SAC for S. Jackson), Jordan Hamilton
11. GS: Klay Thompson, Tristan Thompson
12. UTA: Alec Burkes, Chris Singleton
13. PHX: Markieff Morris, Jimmer Fredette
14. HOU: Marcus Morris, Nikola Vucevic
15. IND: Kwahi Leonard (sent to SA for G. Hill), Bismack Biyombo
16. PHI: Nikola Vucevic, Marcus Morris
17. NY: Iman Shumpert, Klay Thompson
18. WSH: Chris Singleton, Marshon Brooks
19. CHA: Tobias Harris, Josh Selby
20. MIN: Donatas Motiejunas, Donatas Motiejunas***
21. POR: Nolan Smith, Reggie Jackson
22. DEN: Kenneth Faried, Tobias Harris
23. HOU: Nikola Mirotic, Darrius Morris
24. OKC: Reggie Jackson, Kenneth Faried
25. BOS: Marshon Brooks (sent to NJ for J. Johnson), Jordan Williams
26. DAL: Jordan Hamilton, Markieff Morris
27. NJ: JaJuan Johnson (sent to BOS for M. Brooks), Nikola Mirotic
28. CHI: Norris Cole (sent to MIA), Tyler Huneycutt
29. SA: Corey Joseph, David Bertans
30. CHI: Jimmy Butler, Norris Cole
Getting back to it...
Well, the draft is Thursday and I haven't written a post since last draft. But the wait is over for all of my imaginary readers out there, I plan on cramming for the draft by going a little post crazy the next couple of days. Early on, I blamed my absence on the lockout but then Grad School and a new job started and I never got back into it. I have no good excuse and regret letting last season get away from me.
I did still watch the NBA and loved this postseason that finished with my Miami Heat winning the championship. In the theme of this blog I have to mention Norris Cole... Did you watch this kid this season? He had the Miami crowd chanting "M-V-P" during the first game of the season. I predicted the Bulls taking him #30 overall in my mock draft because of his offense, they took him #28 and then sent him to Miami. (Why the Bulls ever send good players to Miami is another conversation for another blog, especially when they are still hurting so much for offensive help.) I figured this kid could play but what surprised me was that he was most regarded for his defense once the postseason rolled around. Really happy for Cole and hope he has a long career in Miami.
I'll have more on my mock draft and how it compared to the real thing later, however, I can tell you I went 3 for 30 which is pretty bad. A couple players I liked, teams didn't and some players I didn't like, teams did. We will not be able to tell who was right or wrong until a couple years have passed but there is one player that I can say I was right about so stay tuned. I'll even get into a second round pick or two because there is one I loved before the draft and he showed up this year. I was also disappointed on the lack of bowties during the draft, hopefully that will get fixed this year.
I did still watch the NBA and loved this postseason that finished with my Miami Heat winning the championship. In the theme of this blog I have to mention Norris Cole... Did you watch this kid this season? He had the Miami crowd chanting "M-V-P" during the first game of the season. I predicted the Bulls taking him #30 overall in my mock draft because of his offense, they took him #28 and then sent him to Miami. (Why the Bulls ever send good players to Miami is another conversation for another blog, especially when they are still hurting so much for offensive help.) I figured this kid could play but what surprised me was that he was most regarded for his defense once the postseason rolled around. Really happy for Cole and hope he has a long career in Miami.
I'll have more on my mock draft and how it compared to the real thing later, however, I can tell you I went 3 for 30 which is pretty bad. A couple players I liked, teams didn't and some players I didn't like, teams did. We will not be able to tell who was right or wrong until a couple years have passed but there is one player that I can say I was right about so stay tuned. I'll even get into a second round pick or two because there is one I loved before the draft and he showed up this year. I was also disappointed on the lack of bowties during the draft, hopefully that will get fixed this year.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Rest of the 1st Round
15. Indiana Pacers -- Bismack Biyombo
SG position is a little weak but they've spent several picks addressing that position that last two drafts. Hansbrough will never be a starter on a championship team but would be a very good 6th man. Biyombo is higher rated but I wouldn't be surprised if Kenneth Faried is taken here, he would fit the Pacers style the last couple seasons.
16. Philadelphia 76ers -- Marcus Morris
Back court is solid and the front court needs work. This is a young team who just needs time for their talent to mesh together. Morris would be another talented, young player who could grow with the rest of the team. A trade involving Adre Iguodala would shake this up of course.
17. New York Knicks -- Klay Thompson
Need a C bad but there's no one here to take. Plus we know the Knicks love offense and wouldn't blink at another good SG.
18. Washington Wizards -- Marshon Brooks
A trade of JaVale McGee would probably change the outcome of this pick, though I really hope the Wiz hold onto him. I like their back court but their stocked with forwards and drafted Kawhi Leonard at the 6th spot. Also you can't surround John Wall with enough shooters and Brooks has played some PG which would give you a solid scoring threat as Wall's back-up.
19. Charlotte Bobcats -- Josh Selby
Took a C with the 8th pick and Tyrus Thomas and Stephen Jackson have the forward position locked up. Selby would help the back court and provide the Cats with some 3-point shooting.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves -- Donatas Motiejunas
Rubio is on his way and I, for one, am pumped about that. Would love to see them replace Darko Milicic. Donatas isn't listed as a C but he is 7'0'' and is young enough to learn and grow into a C. Trade talks with the 2nd overall pick would change this but this is what I think should happen if all stays the same.
21. Portland Trail Blazers -- Reggie Jackson
I loved the trade they pulled off for Gerald Wallace and LaMarcus Aldridge has anchored my fantasy team and Portland the last couple seasons and is really growing into a super star. Brandon Roy showed signs of life during the series with the Mavs. Still no great value at the C position so I think you go with the heir to Andre Miller.
22. Denver Nuggets -- Tobias Harris
Back court is strong; front court is strong. I think adding Harris would add some good depth who could be a starter in the future. K-Mart isn't getting younger so the future could be sooner. This would be a solid pick for Denver.
23. Houston Rockets -- Darius Morris
The front court is solid and they took a C in this draft at 14th. Their next spot to address is the PG position. Lowry is solid but probably not a championship caliber PG. Morris would add another option at PG for the future.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder -- Kenneth Faried
The man would just fit here. It would be a surprise if he fell this far but I think it would be a match made in heaven. He is a hard worker who rebounds and quietly goes about his business. If that's not Thunder basketball, I don't know what is.
25. Boston Celtics -- Jordan Williams
One of the easiest picks in the draft. Shaq retired, Nenad Kristic is headed to Russia, and you lost the East by trading Kendrick Perkins mid-. You need a center and Williams is a solid one who had a good career at Maryland.
26. Dallas Mavericks -- Markieff Morris
Shout out to Dirk here. I'm a Heat fan and a Dirk fan and I'm glad he got his ring. This team would benefit most from the Draft happening after free agency so you know who is coming back. I think they take Morris here because I can't stand to watch Brian Cardinal play. Also Chandler is your number one priority this off-season followed by Barea.
27. New Jersey Nets -- Nikola Mirotic
You simply take the best available here. Deron Williams needs help or he's gone and according to Chad Ford, Mirotic is the best available. Also, the name Nikola just fits in New Jersey these days.
28. Chicago Bulls -- Tyler Honeycutt
Offense, offense, offense. That's what Chicago needs. Their defense was good enough to get them to the Easter Conference championship but their offense failed to take them farther than that. Honeycutt can score and that needs to be the focus of the Bulls' draft this season.
29. San Antonio Spurs -- Davis Bertans
The Spurs don't need any help in the back court and their front court isn't getting younger. They also have great international scouts and I would feel confident in Bertans' future if they Spurs did take him here.
30. Chicago Bulls -- Norris Cole
Offense, Offense, Offense. See pick 28 for a full description of their problem. This kid can score and the Bulls need scoring.
Most Likely to wear a Bow Tie:
Klay Thompson -- Just got a feeling that he looks like a bow tie kind of guy.
Most Wanted to wear a Bow Tie:
Marcus and Markieff Morris -- All you need to know is this: "Twins in matching bow ties."
SG position is a little weak but they've spent several picks addressing that position that last two drafts. Hansbrough will never be a starter on a championship team but would be a very good 6th man. Biyombo is higher rated but I wouldn't be surprised if Kenneth Faried is taken here, he would fit the Pacers style the last couple seasons.
16. Philadelphia 76ers -- Marcus Morris
Back court is solid and the front court needs work. This is a young team who just needs time for their talent to mesh together. Morris would be another talented, young player who could grow with the rest of the team. A trade involving Adre Iguodala would shake this up of course.
17. New York Knicks -- Klay Thompson
Need a C bad but there's no one here to take. Plus we know the Knicks love offense and wouldn't blink at another good SG.
18. Washington Wizards -- Marshon Brooks
A trade of JaVale McGee would probably change the outcome of this pick, though I really hope the Wiz hold onto him. I like their back court but their stocked with forwards and drafted Kawhi Leonard at the 6th spot. Also you can't surround John Wall with enough shooters and Brooks has played some PG which would give you a solid scoring threat as Wall's back-up.
19. Charlotte Bobcats -- Josh Selby
Took a C with the 8th pick and Tyrus Thomas and Stephen Jackson have the forward position locked up. Selby would help the back court and provide the Cats with some 3-point shooting.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves -- Donatas Motiejunas
Rubio is on his way and I, for one, am pumped about that. Would love to see them replace Darko Milicic. Donatas isn't listed as a C but he is 7'0'' and is young enough to learn and grow into a C. Trade talks with the 2nd overall pick would change this but this is what I think should happen if all stays the same.
21. Portland Trail Blazers -- Reggie Jackson
I loved the trade they pulled off for Gerald Wallace and LaMarcus Aldridge has anchored my fantasy team and Portland the last couple seasons and is really growing into a super star. Brandon Roy showed signs of life during the series with the Mavs. Still no great value at the C position so I think you go with the heir to Andre Miller.
22. Denver Nuggets -- Tobias Harris
Back court is strong; front court is strong. I think adding Harris would add some good depth who could be a starter in the future. K-Mart isn't getting younger so the future could be sooner. This would be a solid pick for Denver.
23. Houston Rockets -- Darius Morris
The front court is solid and they took a C in this draft at 14th. Their next spot to address is the PG position. Lowry is solid but probably not a championship caliber PG. Morris would add another option at PG for the future.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder -- Kenneth Faried
The man would just fit here. It would be a surprise if he fell this far but I think it would be a match made in heaven. He is a hard worker who rebounds and quietly goes about his business. If that's not Thunder basketball, I don't know what is.
25. Boston Celtics -- Jordan Williams
One of the easiest picks in the draft. Shaq retired, Nenad Kristic is headed to Russia, and you lost the East by trading Kendrick Perkins mid-. You need a center and Williams is a solid one who had a good career at Maryland.
26. Dallas Mavericks -- Markieff Morris
Shout out to Dirk here. I'm a Heat fan and a Dirk fan and I'm glad he got his ring. This team would benefit most from the Draft happening after free agency so you know who is coming back. I think they take Morris here because I can't stand to watch Brian Cardinal play. Also Chandler is your number one priority this off-season followed by Barea.
27. New Jersey Nets -- Nikola Mirotic
You simply take the best available here. Deron Williams needs help or he's gone and according to Chad Ford, Mirotic is the best available. Also, the name Nikola just fits in New Jersey these days.
28. Chicago Bulls -- Tyler Honeycutt
Offense, offense, offense. That's what Chicago needs. Their defense was good enough to get them to the Easter Conference championship but their offense failed to take them farther than that. Honeycutt can score and that needs to be the focus of the Bulls' draft this season.
29. San Antonio Spurs -- Davis Bertans
The Spurs don't need any help in the back court and their front court isn't getting younger. They also have great international scouts and I would feel confident in Bertans' future if they Spurs did take him here.
30. Chicago Bulls -- Norris Cole
Offense, Offense, Offense. See pick 28 for a full description of their problem. This kid can score and the Bulls need scoring.
Most Likely to wear a Bow Tie:
Klay Thompson -- Just got a feeling that he looks like a bow tie kind of guy.
Most Wanted to wear a Bow Tie:
Marcus and Markieff Morris -- All you need to know is this: "Twins in matching bow ties."
Monday, June 13, 2011
Picks 6-14 for the 2011 Draft
The first five picks are completed, we now start the rest of the lottery starting with the Washington Wizards and their new logo.
6. Washington Wizards -- Kawhi Leonard
Team Needs: SF, PF, SG
Love this pick and the new logo is warming on me. A friend chalked the reasoning behind the logo up to the notion that Washington is "patriotic as f*ck!" I describe the reasoning behind this pick to the notion that "Defense wins championships." Leonard is an athletic SF from from San Diego State. The Aztecs were built on defense, the running game, and smart basketball from veteran leadership and Leonard was the core of that. Washington allowed an average of 104.7 ppg which ranked 24th in the NBA and with the SF position becoming a dynamic scoring option, Leonard would help tremendously. I believe he can guard 2 to 3 positions and will have the ability to run the court with Wall and McGee. He also seems to have a level head and playing style which would mesh well with Wall's flash and McGee's showmanship. Love this pick and if Nick Young and Jordan Crawford can keep shooting and scoring and Andray Blatche can keep rebounding, the Wiz are headed in the right direction with this pick.
7. Sacramento Kings -- Kemba Walker
Team Needs: PG, C, SG
I'm iffy on this pick. The Kings seem to see Tyreke Evans as a SG which would open the door for Kemba to play PG and even allow the Kings to run an offense with two players that can run point or the 2 guard which I kind of like. It could be a poor man's Wade and LeBron. It would sadden me to see Kemba to go to Sactown when he is so close to dropping to the Pistons. I would love to see him in Detroit to bring that franchise back but I think the Kings will ruin that a pick before the Pistons get a chance. I think a center would be a better pick here or maybe a more true PG but no player really fits here for Sacramento. I see no sure fire pick for them and I think it might be wise to look to trade out of this spot. Though they seem to love Kemba, which is easy to do, and I believe they will end up picking him 7th in this draft.
8. Detroit Pistons -- Alec Burks
Team Needs: SG, PG, PF
They drafted Greg Monroe last year, Austin Daye has shown great potential, Jonas Jerebko has one of the coolest names in the NBA, and it seems Rodney Stuckey is their future at the PG position. The biggest question mark seems to be at the 2 spot. The Pistons seem done with Rip Hamilton and should find a way to trade him. I would love to see them trade up and get Kemba but they haven't yet and therefore I have to work with what I have. Alec Burks looked like he had good potential at both ends of the court when I watched him play Alabama during the NIT. I think he would fit in well with Detroit. Kemba would be my dream pick here and even Klay Thompson would fit and bring some scoring to Detroit. However, the Pistons have always been at there best when they draft basketball players and Burks is a basketball player.
9. Charlotte Bobcats -- Jonas Valanciunas
Team Needs: C, PG, SG
The Bobcats are a long way from being a winning team but their biggest weakness is MJ's attempt to save face by making Kwame Brown his starting center. Please draft Jonas and start anyone but Kwame. I like Tyrus Thomas and Stephen Jackson will continue to score points. Gerald Henderson will be a solid role player and as D.J. Augustin develops, he will turn out to be a PG that will not lose you games. Kwame, however, will hardly ever win you games. You need a center, MJ. I know you won 6 titles with Horrace Grant as your center but Kwame is worse than Horrace and you don't have the next you on your roster.
10. Milwaukee Bucks -- Jordan Hamilton
Team Needs: SF, PF, SG
Fear the Deer! But don't fear their offense. But an addition of Jordan Hamilton could at least start to worry your defense. He did a little bit of everything at Texas and seems to be rising up draft boards. I see him as a solid player who can help Brandon Jennings and Andrew Bogut get back to the playoffs. He can rebound and finds a way to score when his teams needs the points. Carlos Delfino is good but looks old and moves slower, plus he missed some time last year and has the aura of a one year wonder (which the Bucks are risking being if they don't get Jennings and Bogut some help). Hamilton will also stretch the floor more than Maggette does, which could only help the Bucks even more. Hamilton also improved every year, signs of a good work ethic. This would be a solid pick for the Bucks and would set them on the right road.
11. Golden State -- Tristan Thompson
Team Needs: C and a trade
Mark Jackson was a solid PG who pushed Reggie Miller to be even better. Love the hire and love Steph Curry. Jackson is going to be a great coach for Curry (who oddly resembles a young Reggie), but the Warriors need to move Monta Ellis and give the keys to Curry. I think they could move up in the draft if they could pull off this trade and I hope they do. Curry is a special talent and needs his own back court, though he'll never tell you that. A good front court player would do this team good, regardless of trade. I like how they acquired David Lee and would like to see them add another good PF who can help sure up their defense and give them a scoring boost. Tristan Thompson looks like another Lemarcus Aldridge and I would love to see him in a Golden State jersey. He showed flashes of greatness during one year at Texas and I'm not sure there is a roof on his potential. Moving up in the draft by trading Ellis could benefit the Warriors but I like Thompson here or one, maybe two picks up. Players would be a better return for Golden State.
12. Utah Jazz -- Chris Singleton
Team Needs: SG, PG
With their second pick in the draft, the Jazz will take Chris Singleton. They are not far from being a solid playoff team and drafting Singleton would put them closer and possibly give them some room to deal a piece or two to make them even better. Singleton is a 6'9'' freak who can guard all five positions (I've seen him scare a Jacksonville U point guard by just thinking he could guard him and then embarrassed him by actually doing it, all in person). He can shoot the 3-ball and is a great defender. I think he is underrated in this draft and would put Utah in a great position to be a contender once again. They do have a crowded front court and could use a proven SG but the flexibility that Singleton would give them on and off the court would be too much to pass up.
13. Phoenix Suns -- Jimmer Fredette
Team Needs: SF, SG
JIMMERRRRRRR!!!! When I say I dream of Kemba in a Pistons jersey, it is nothing compared to how bad I want Jimmer in a Phoenix jersey. The man is the personification of the Suns during their great years in the 2000's. They might not win a championship but we all know you are gonna have to light up the score board to beat 'em. I want this so bad that I can't even focus on the real basketball reasons of why this would work. I apologize for that lack of focus. Just take this from this article... I want Jimmer in Phoenix. He, Aaron Brooks will single handily lead the NBA in three-point attempts. I can see it now, I am up late on a Tuesday night watching some random West Coast game on TNT... Jimmer drops 45, Curry drops 51... it's what the NBA regular season is all about.
14. Houston Rockets -- Nikola Vucevic
Team Needs: PG, C, PF
Will Yao ever come back? Will Thabeet be a steal in a trade or just another throw in? Can Chuck Hayes grow some more? Those are just some of the questions in Houston this off season. They're not one piece away from a playoff team but they are a piece away from being perfectly set on that road. That piece should be Nikola Vucevic. Unless they trade back, the PGs available here are not worth the pick. Josh Selby would make a good pick but I don't like him drafted at number 14. Vucevic would give them a 7'0'' presence and is climbing up draft boards. I don't see many years in Yao's future and this would put his successor in the locker room. Again, this pick doesn't place them as a contender but this sets up the next right move as the move that puts them in the league of contenders.
That wraps up the lottery, stay tuned for the playoff teams.
Most Likely to wear a Bow Tie:
Kemba Walker -- the Bronx swag he has would be the most likely to pull this off and the most likely to want to pull this off
Most Wanted to wear Bow Tie:
Jimmer Fredette -- the man looks like a frat-star and this would cement him as a frat-daddy. If he didn't play basketball at BYU and instead went to Alabama or Ole Miss, he would fit right in with Natty Light and Slampieces.
6. Washington Wizards -- Kawhi Leonard
Team Needs: SF, PF, SG
Love this pick and the new logo is warming on me. A friend chalked the reasoning behind the logo up to the notion that Washington is "patriotic as f*ck!" I describe the reasoning behind this pick to the notion that "Defense wins championships." Leonard is an athletic SF from from San Diego State. The Aztecs were built on defense, the running game, and smart basketball from veteran leadership and Leonard was the core of that. Washington allowed an average of 104.7 ppg which ranked 24th in the NBA and with the SF position becoming a dynamic scoring option, Leonard would help tremendously. I believe he can guard 2 to 3 positions and will have the ability to run the court with Wall and McGee. He also seems to have a level head and playing style which would mesh well with Wall's flash and McGee's showmanship. Love this pick and if Nick Young and Jordan Crawford can keep shooting and scoring and Andray Blatche can keep rebounding, the Wiz are headed in the right direction with this pick.
7. Sacramento Kings -- Kemba Walker
Team Needs: PG, C, SG
I'm iffy on this pick. The Kings seem to see Tyreke Evans as a SG which would open the door for Kemba to play PG and even allow the Kings to run an offense with two players that can run point or the 2 guard which I kind of like. It could be a poor man's Wade and LeBron. It would sadden me to see Kemba to go to Sactown when he is so close to dropping to the Pistons. I would love to see him in Detroit to bring that franchise back but I think the Kings will ruin that a pick before the Pistons get a chance. I think a center would be a better pick here or maybe a more true PG but no player really fits here for Sacramento. I see no sure fire pick for them and I think it might be wise to look to trade out of this spot. Though they seem to love Kemba, which is easy to do, and I believe they will end up picking him 7th in this draft.
8. Detroit Pistons -- Alec Burks
Team Needs: SG, PG, PF
They drafted Greg Monroe last year, Austin Daye has shown great potential, Jonas Jerebko has one of the coolest names in the NBA, and it seems Rodney Stuckey is their future at the PG position. The biggest question mark seems to be at the 2 spot. The Pistons seem done with Rip Hamilton and should find a way to trade him. I would love to see them trade up and get Kemba but they haven't yet and therefore I have to work with what I have. Alec Burks looked like he had good potential at both ends of the court when I watched him play Alabama during the NIT. I think he would fit in well with Detroit. Kemba would be my dream pick here and even Klay Thompson would fit and bring some scoring to Detroit. However, the Pistons have always been at there best when they draft basketball players and Burks is a basketball player.
9. Charlotte Bobcats -- Jonas Valanciunas
Team Needs: C, PG, SG
The Bobcats are a long way from being a winning team but their biggest weakness is MJ's attempt to save face by making Kwame Brown his starting center. Please draft Jonas and start anyone but Kwame. I like Tyrus Thomas and Stephen Jackson will continue to score points. Gerald Henderson will be a solid role player and as D.J. Augustin develops, he will turn out to be a PG that will not lose you games. Kwame, however, will hardly ever win you games. You need a center, MJ. I know you won 6 titles with Horrace Grant as your center but Kwame is worse than Horrace and you don't have the next you on your roster.
10. Milwaukee Bucks -- Jordan Hamilton
Team Needs: SF, PF, SG
Fear the Deer! But don't fear their offense. But an addition of Jordan Hamilton could at least start to worry your defense. He did a little bit of everything at Texas and seems to be rising up draft boards. I see him as a solid player who can help Brandon Jennings and Andrew Bogut get back to the playoffs. He can rebound and finds a way to score when his teams needs the points. Carlos Delfino is good but looks old and moves slower, plus he missed some time last year and has the aura of a one year wonder (which the Bucks are risking being if they don't get Jennings and Bogut some help). Hamilton will also stretch the floor more than Maggette does, which could only help the Bucks even more. Hamilton also improved every year, signs of a good work ethic. This would be a solid pick for the Bucks and would set them on the right road.
11. Golden State -- Tristan Thompson
Team Needs: C and a trade
Mark Jackson was a solid PG who pushed Reggie Miller to be even better. Love the hire and love Steph Curry. Jackson is going to be a great coach for Curry (who oddly resembles a young Reggie), but the Warriors need to move Monta Ellis and give the keys to Curry. I think they could move up in the draft if they could pull off this trade and I hope they do. Curry is a special talent and needs his own back court, though he'll never tell you that. A good front court player would do this team good, regardless of trade. I like how they acquired David Lee and would like to see them add another good PF who can help sure up their defense and give them a scoring boost. Tristan Thompson looks like another Lemarcus Aldridge and I would love to see him in a Golden State jersey. He showed flashes of greatness during one year at Texas and I'm not sure there is a roof on his potential. Moving up in the draft by trading Ellis could benefit the Warriors but I like Thompson here or one, maybe two picks up. Players would be a better return for Golden State.
12. Utah Jazz -- Chris Singleton
Team Needs: SG, PG
With their second pick in the draft, the Jazz will take Chris Singleton. They are not far from being a solid playoff team and drafting Singleton would put them closer and possibly give them some room to deal a piece or two to make them even better. Singleton is a 6'9'' freak who can guard all five positions (I've seen him scare a Jacksonville U point guard by just thinking he could guard him and then embarrassed him by actually doing it, all in person). He can shoot the 3-ball and is a great defender. I think he is underrated in this draft and would put Utah in a great position to be a contender once again. They do have a crowded front court and could use a proven SG but the flexibility that Singleton would give them on and off the court would be too much to pass up.
13. Phoenix Suns -- Jimmer Fredette
Team Needs: SF, SG
JIMMERRRRRRR!!!! When I say I dream of Kemba in a Pistons jersey, it is nothing compared to how bad I want Jimmer in a Phoenix jersey. The man is the personification of the Suns during their great years in the 2000's. They might not win a championship but we all know you are gonna have to light up the score board to beat 'em. I want this so bad that I can't even focus on the real basketball reasons of why this would work. I apologize for that lack of focus. Just take this from this article... I want Jimmer in Phoenix. He, Aaron Brooks will single handily lead the NBA in three-point attempts. I can see it now, I am up late on a Tuesday night watching some random West Coast game on TNT... Jimmer drops 45, Curry drops 51... it's what the NBA regular season is all about.
14. Houston Rockets -- Nikola Vucevic
Team Needs: PG, C, PF
Will Yao ever come back? Will Thabeet be a steal in a trade or just another throw in? Can Chuck Hayes grow some more? Those are just some of the questions in Houston this off season. They're not one piece away from a playoff team but they are a piece away from being perfectly set on that road. That piece should be Nikola Vucevic. Unless they trade back, the PGs available here are not worth the pick. Josh Selby would make a good pick but I don't like him drafted at number 14. Vucevic would give them a 7'0'' presence and is climbing up draft boards. I don't see many years in Yao's future and this would put his successor in the locker room. Again, this pick doesn't place them as a contender but this sets up the next right move as the move that puts them in the league of contenders.
That wraps up the lottery, stay tuned for the playoff teams.
Most Likely to wear a Bow Tie:
Kemba Walker -- the Bronx swag he has would be the most likely to pull this off and the most likely to want to pull this off
Most Wanted to wear Bow Tie:
Jimmer Fredette -- the man looks like a frat-star and this would cement him as a frat-daddy. If he didn't play basketball at BYU and instead went to Alabama or Ole Miss, he would fit right in with Natty Light and Slampieces.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
First Five Picks in the 2011 Draft
1. Cleveland Cavaliers -- Kyrie Irving
Team Needs: PG, C, SF, SG (it's that bad)
I'm taking Irving here and not thinking twice. The league is now run by PGs (minus Miami). Cleveland has a good back-up PG as their starter, Ramon Sessions, and a veteran PG (who probably would rather be somewhere else) sitting in Baron Davis. Neither will ever be starters for a championship team. Their best player is J.J. Hickson. They need someone to get him the ball. He was great at NC State without a PG and has been great at Cleveland without a real PG. GET THIS MAN A PG! Draft Kyrie and watch him and J.J. run the pick and roll all night. But as a Miami Heat fan I should add that I hope Irving signs a 7-year deal only to leave and join the Heat after a TV special. This move would re-energize the Big 3 and carry them to their 8th, 9th, and 10th championships. Sorry Cleveland.
2. Minnesota Timberwolves -- Derrick Williams
Team Needs: C, SG, PG, SF (it's also that bad)
This pick is an interesting pick. The Cavs have talked about moving up from their 4th overall pick in a three team trade involving the Pistons to obtain this pick. This would give them a shot to draft Irving and Derrick Williams but would probably cost them (if the Pistons are smart) J.J. Hickson. I hope the Cavs don't go through with this and hold out hope that Enes Kanter drops to them at pick 4. And since nothing is anywhere near final, we must assume the T-Wolves keep this pick and decide between Williams and Kanter. I watched Derrick Williams during the tournament and he did not disappoint. He showed he is worthy of this pick but some question whether he is a one-year-wonder (the main reason Cleveland shouldn't give up a known thing like Hickson). The T-Wolves also seem to love Williams even though he doesn't fit their biggest need. No one has decided whether Williams is a SF or PF in this league. Minnesota definitely doesn't need a PF and they traded for Michael Beasley last year who played the SF position for them. I think the Wolves should go after Kanter to replace Darko Milicic but they just gave him an unreal contract last year. It would be the best pick for them and I think would fill their biggest need but the worst financially since Darko has more years on his contract than Beasley. They won't draft a PG because they are still waiting on Ricky Rubio to cross the Atlantic, not to mention the fans would riot if they drafted another PG after they drafted 3 in the first round two years ago. There is also not a good enough SG to merit the 2nd overall pick even though Brandon Knight came out of high school as a SG, teams want him as a PG. Thus the T-Wolves are left to draft Derrick Williams and hope he can play the SF position. Unless, of course, they trade to the 4th pick along with picking up Detroit's 8th overall pick. It should be another interesting draft for the fans in Minnesota.
3. Utah Jazz -- Brandon Knight
Team Needs: SG, PG
It took a while but Brandon Knight eventually showed that he could be the next great PG John Calipari produces. Kentucky's offense seemed more structured this year and Knight was the quarterback. John Wall's offense seemed to flow more from him and what he created, same with Derrick Rose. In football terms, Knight ran a pro-style offense while Wall and Rose ran the spread. The Jazz are one of the few teams known for their structured offense. Jerry Sloan ran the 1-3-1 offense and plugged in player after player to fill roles. The structured offense still finds a home in Utah and Knight fits perfectly into a structured system. The kid came into college with the max amount of credits allowed which he earned from AP and transfer classes. He's pretty smart. A structured offense fits with a smart guy (no knock on Wall or Rose). Not to mention he is a better shooter than the other PGs Calipari has produced. I think Knight will thrive in Utah. They can go small while still being able to score with Knight, Devin Harris, and Gordon Hayward and it also gives them a young nucleus of Knight, Hayward, and Derrick Favors. The Jazz looked primed to build a great team through their young talent obtained through the draft and trade. I love this pick most of the first three picks and could talk much more about it.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers -- Enes Kanter
Team Needs: PG, C, SF, SG
This is again a no-brainer for Cleveland. Please keep this pick and keep J.J. Hickson. Derrick Williams will be available here if Minnesota takes Kanter. If they take Williams, Kanter is here and Cleveland will be back on the way to relevance. It's a PG league but it's hard to win without a good front court. The first stat I like to look at is rebounding. Win the rebound battle and you are in a great position to win the game. This pick would set the Cavs on the right road. Moving up to the 2nd pick would get them Williams but probably lose them J.J. It's not worth it. Hold strong at the 4th pick and get a C for the future. Ryan Hollins looked good at some points last year but a career 4 pts/2 rebs career player at starter will not win you a championship. But put the 7-footer Hollins as your first player off the bench and you start looking like a winning team. Cleveland also used Hickson as their C when they went small. I don't think you can get that from Williams or you at least know that you can get it from Hickson.
5. Toronto Raptors -- Jan Vesely
Team Needs: SF, PF, PG
ESPN has Vesely listed as a SF and at 6' 11" he would make a good fit in Toronto. Andrea Bargnani has the C position locked down and Jose Calderon has the PG position in a good place. DeMar DeRozan will mature as a SG and Ed Davis was drafted last year to be the Raptors' PF for the future. Also the Raptors seem to love international players and Vesely is the best international player avaliable. It seems like a perfect fit. If Vesely can stretch the floor from behind the arc, it will open up the floor for Bargnani and clear the lane for DeRozan to fly down. And, at 6' 11", Toronto should rarely lose the rebounding battle. He seems tall for a SF but he would be the best available at this time in the draft and would again give the Raptors more international flair.
Most Likely of the Five to wear Bow Tie:
Brandon Knight -- the man is probably the smartest in the draft and I would love to see the bow-tie-with-thick-rimmed-glasses look
Most Wanted to wear Bow Tie:
Brandon Knight -- see above
Team Needs: PG, C, SF, SG (it's that bad)
I'm taking Irving here and not thinking twice. The league is now run by PGs (minus Miami). Cleveland has a good back-up PG as their starter, Ramon Sessions, and a veteran PG (who probably would rather be somewhere else) sitting in Baron Davis. Neither will ever be starters for a championship team. Their best player is J.J. Hickson. They need someone to get him the ball. He was great at NC State without a PG and has been great at Cleveland without a real PG. GET THIS MAN A PG! Draft Kyrie and watch him and J.J. run the pick and roll all night. But as a Miami Heat fan I should add that I hope Irving signs a 7-year deal only to leave and join the Heat after a TV special. This move would re-energize the Big 3 and carry them to their 8th, 9th, and 10th championships. Sorry Cleveland.
2. Minnesota Timberwolves -- Derrick Williams
Team Needs: C, SG, PG, SF (it's also that bad)
This pick is an interesting pick. The Cavs have talked about moving up from their 4th overall pick in a three team trade involving the Pistons to obtain this pick. This would give them a shot to draft Irving and Derrick Williams but would probably cost them (if the Pistons are smart) J.J. Hickson. I hope the Cavs don't go through with this and hold out hope that Enes Kanter drops to them at pick 4. And since nothing is anywhere near final, we must assume the T-Wolves keep this pick and decide between Williams and Kanter. I watched Derrick Williams during the tournament and he did not disappoint. He showed he is worthy of this pick but some question whether he is a one-year-wonder (the main reason Cleveland shouldn't give up a known thing like Hickson). The T-Wolves also seem to love Williams even though he doesn't fit their biggest need. No one has decided whether Williams is a SF or PF in this league. Minnesota definitely doesn't need a PF and they traded for Michael Beasley last year who played the SF position for them. I think the Wolves should go after Kanter to replace Darko Milicic but they just gave him an unreal contract last year. It would be the best pick for them and I think would fill their biggest need but the worst financially since Darko has more years on his contract than Beasley. They won't draft a PG because they are still waiting on Ricky Rubio to cross the Atlantic, not to mention the fans would riot if they drafted another PG after they drafted 3 in the first round two years ago. There is also not a good enough SG to merit the 2nd overall pick even though Brandon Knight came out of high school as a SG, teams want him as a PG. Thus the T-Wolves are left to draft Derrick Williams and hope he can play the SF position. Unless, of course, they trade to the 4th pick along with picking up Detroit's 8th overall pick. It should be another interesting draft for the fans in Minnesota.
3. Utah Jazz -- Brandon Knight
Team Needs: SG, PG
It took a while but Brandon Knight eventually showed that he could be the next great PG John Calipari produces. Kentucky's offense seemed more structured this year and Knight was the quarterback. John Wall's offense seemed to flow more from him and what he created, same with Derrick Rose. In football terms, Knight ran a pro-style offense while Wall and Rose ran the spread. The Jazz are one of the few teams known for their structured offense. Jerry Sloan ran the 1-3-1 offense and plugged in player after player to fill roles. The structured offense still finds a home in Utah and Knight fits perfectly into a structured system. The kid came into college with the max amount of credits allowed which he earned from AP and transfer classes. He's pretty smart. A structured offense fits with a smart guy (no knock on Wall or Rose). Not to mention he is a better shooter than the other PGs Calipari has produced. I think Knight will thrive in Utah. They can go small while still being able to score with Knight, Devin Harris, and Gordon Hayward and it also gives them a young nucleus of Knight, Hayward, and Derrick Favors. The Jazz looked primed to build a great team through their young talent obtained through the draft and trade. I love this pick most of the first three picks and could talk much more about it.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers -- Enes Kanter
Team Needs: PG, C, SF, SG
This is again a no-brainer for Cleveland. Please keep this pick and keep J.J. Hickson. Derrick Williams will be available here if Minnesota takes Kanter. If they take Williams, Kanter is here and Cleveland will be back on the way to relevance. It's a PG league but it's hard to win without a good front court. The first stat I like to look at is rebounding. Win the rebound battle and you are in a great position to win the game. This pick would set the Cavs on the right road. Moving up to the 2nd pick would get them Williams but probably lose them J.J. It's not worth it. Hold strong at the 4th pick and get a C for the future. Ryan Hollins looked good at some points last year but a career 4 pts/2 rebs career player at starter will not win you a championship. But put the 7-footer Hollins as your first player off the bench and you start looking like a winning team. Cleveland also used Hickson as their C when they went small. I don't think you can get that from Williams or you at least know that you can get it from Hickson.
5. Toronto Raptors -- Jan Vesely
Team Needs: SF, PF, PG
ESPN has Vesely listed as a SF and at 6' 11" he would make a good fit in Toronto. Andrea Bargnani has the C position locked down and Jose Calderon has the PG position in a good place. DeMar DeRozan will mature as a SG and Ed Davis was drafted last year to be the Raptors' PF for the future. Also the Raptors seem to love international players and Vesely is the best international player avaliable. It seems like a perfect fit. If Vesely can stretch the floor from behind the arc, it will open up the floor for Bargnani and clear the lane for DeRozan to fly down. And, at 6' 11", Toronto should rarely lose the rebounding battle. He seems tall for a SF but he would be the best available at this time in the draft and would again give the Raptors more international flair.
Most Likely of the Five to wear Bow Tie:
Brandon Knight -- the man is probably the smartest in the draft and I would love to see the bow-tie-with-thick-rimmed-glasses look
Most Wanted to wear Bow Tie:
Brandon Knight -- see above
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