The Draft Starts tonight!!!!
And with that, I've placed Mock Drafts from 4 of the main sites (ESPN, CBSSportsline, NBA.com & USA TODAY) in below. You know how every year the mock draft disappears the second the draft starts? Not this year, let’s hold them accountable (and myself as well....) I have picks 1-29 below with the mock picks of each site as well as my own. Grading comes tomorrow!!!!
NOTE: CBSSportsline had 3 different authors write mock Drafts, I took Mike Kahn's only. He is the Executive Editor after all and with a title like that he gets the call. On USA TODAY, we took Roscoe Nance, not sure why, but he was listed first, so that's the one I took. Why does everyone feel the need to have ALL of their writers give their opinion on the draft?
==========================================
ESPN.com projects the first round of the 2004 NBA draft.
1. Magic SELECTION
ESPN (Emeka Okafor): Why? We're going with Emeka Okafor today but there is strong movement that the pick will end up being Dwight Howard. There is actually suspense before the first pick is made which is new for an NBA draft. But, Howard could end up being the next KG and that could be too good to pass up. Okafor is the safer pick for next season but Howard has the potential to be a star.
USA TODAY Says (Dwight Howard): With Tracy McGrady all but gone, and Grant Hill's future in doubt because of lingering ankle problems, Howard gives the Magic a solid citizen and a talent to build around.
Dwight Howard, 6-10 Southwest Christian Academy (Ga.)
CBSSPORTSLINE (Dwight Howard) The most talent in the draft and worth the wait to mature.
NBA.com (Emeka Okafor) With Orlando entertaining trade offers for Tracy McGrady, it’s difficult to project which player, between Okafor and Dwight Howard, is the better fit long term. Okafor is the safer pick.
My Thoughts (Dwight Howard): I don't think the Magic will be drafting Okafor IF... the keep the pick. If they are already trading away McGrady, then why not wait on the huge upside of someone like Howard? I guess I have the opposite opinion that NBA.com has. However, I'm still thinking that Atlanta will be fighting hard for this pick and do what Cleveland did last year. Land a home town kid and have the local community rally around. Selling more tickets is what's on the mind of the Hawks.
2. Bobcats SELECTION
ESPN (Dwight Howard): Why? Either way the Bobcats will be happy. ESPN Insider Chad Ford's best guess is, given the most recent revelations, that Okafor falls here. However, Howard is the type of player that a team can build a franchise around. That's what the Bobcats are looking for. Then again, the order of the first two picks will go back and forth all day and into draft night. As for 2:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Howard felt he was headed to Charlotte after talking with ESPN.com's Andy Katz in New York City.
USA TODAY (Emeka Okafor): Okafor makes all the sense in the world for the Bobcats. He can help immediately on the court, and will also be a good ambassador in the community. Bernie Bickerstaff has said for months that he wants to build around Okafor's heart and high character.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Emeka Okafor): Were it not for the stress fracture in his back, he'd go No. 1 -- and he still might.
NBA.com (Dwight Howard): Bobcats GM and Coach Bernie Bickerstaff traded up to ensure he’d get either Okafor or Howard. Don’t expect any surprises, with Charlotte grabbing whichever player is on the board.
My Thoughts (Okafor): Howard will go #1 in my humble opinion, and I think the Bobcats will land with Okafor here in the #2. Either way, I think NBA.com has it spot on.
3. Bulls SELECTION
ESPN (Andre Iguodala): Why? The Bulls may trade this pick. But if they keep it won't be a surprise to see Iguodala in Chicago. He could be a Scottie Pippen clone. He's versatile and he would be a hometown favorite. His parents were holding up three fingers in NYC on Wednesday. They believe he's going No. 3, but they don't know where.
USA TODAY (Luol Deng): The never-ending search for the second coming of Scottie Pippen continues. While Deng is not Pippen, he can help the Bulls.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Luol Deng): This is a classic case of position needed and best player available rolled into one.
NBA.com (Andre Iguodala): The Bulls also like Luol Deng, Josh Childress and Ben Gordon, and could trade down or out of the spot completely. Iguodala can play multiple positions and would form an excellent defensive backcourt with Kirk Hinrich.
My Thoughts (Luol Deng): I think it's between Iguodala and Deng really, but I go with Deng because his upside is so huge. If they are drafting the best player, it's Deng. If they draft on need, they go with Iguodala.
4. Clippers SELECTION
ESPN (Devin Harris): Why? This is a tough one. We've heard Ben Gordon and Shaun Livingston here as well, and all three have a certain appeal. But Harris is the most ready to play the point, while Gordon is the most explosive scorer in the draft and Livingston has the most upside. It comes down to Harris being ready next season. But Livingston has the potential to be the star in this year's draft a decade from now. But Mike Dunleavy might not be interested in waiting.
USA TODAY (Shaun Livingston): Somewhere Elton Brand and Corey Maggette are smiling. Livingston can and will get them the ball once he figures out how to play in the NBA.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Shaun Livingston): Very young and strength is an issue, but he's an eye-popping ball-handler and passer and can shoot with range.
NBA.com (Ben Gordon): The Clips could grab Shaun Livingston and wait for him to develop. Gordon’s workouts have been sensational and he provides more immediate help. Devin Harris is also a possibility.
My Thoughts (Shaun Livingston): This pick is a 3 man race according to most, but I think it's only two. Livingston or Harris. I watched tons of Big Ten basketball and Devin Harris didn't impress me enough to take him over the upside of Livingston. The handles are just too good and he creates size mismatches even if he is a bit lanky.
5. Dallas (from Wizards) SELECTION
Note - this was the Wizards pick when most of the Mocks were done.
ESPN (Luol Deng): Why? Once again, this pick is fluid. Deng could slide past the Wizards. This could be a case where Washington goes with the best available player. Indiana is interested in moving up here. The Wizards would prefer to move out and a guy like Al Harrington would be good trade bait. If the Pacers wind up picking here, look for Livingston to land in Indiana.
USA TODAY (Andre Iguodala): The Wizards need a big frontcourt player more than another swing player. But Iguodala's versatility and nose for defense make him too enticing. However, reported trade of pick to Dallas for Antawn Jamison would fill need for strong frontcourt presence.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Josh Childress): Smooth as silk with long arms and an improving shooting touch.
NBA.com (Luol Deng): The Wizards are loaded with twos and fours. Deng projects as a small forward, and could play sooner than other players under consideration.
My Thoughts (Josh Childress): Truthfully, I don't think Dallas will be picking here, or whomever they pick it won't be for them (traded away). However, if they do pick, they just got rid of Jamison and Childress could be groomed into that type SF, only a better outside shooter (possible even a 2).
6. Hawks SELECTION
ESPN (Shaun Livingston): Why? Again, Livingston has more potential than anyone in the draft. He does things already at his size that no one else can do. Patience will be the key. In the end, ESPN Insider Chad Ford believes the Hawks will be better off with Livingston than Howard in the long run.
USA TODAY (Josh Childress): With just four players under contract, it's hard for the Hawks to go wrong and they won't by taking Childress. He's versatile and athletic, which fits the profile for players that GM Billy Knight likes.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Andre Iguodala): Great defender who brings to mind Scottie Pippen, but doesn't shoot well.
NBA.com (Shaun Livingston): Hawks are in rebuilding mode and Livingston could be the most talented player in the draft. If Jason Terry is in the team’s long-range plans, a tall point guard would be a nice fit in the backcourt.
My Thoughts (Andre Iguodala): I'll be amazed if Livingston drops this far, but would the best pick here for the Hawks. Iguodala is a great defender however and he's VERY athletic. He's not the tick seller though that the Hawks are seeking, so we'll have to see if the Hawks are praying for Livingston to land here, or are looking to trade up and get either him or the hometown kid Dwight Howard. I personally think that Iguodala is getting more praise than deserved in most of these drafts. Don't get me wrong, he could develop the O game, but he's another Darvin Ham to me. However, this is my PREDICTION, not my personal "if I were picking"
7. Bulls (from Suns) SELECTION
Note: this was the Suns pick when the mock draft was done
ESPN (Ben Gordon): Why? Remember, Phoenix could be dealing this pick. And, if Gordon slips this far he will have trade value. Gordon would be a steal at this spot.
USA TODAY (Devin Harris): Harris is the perfect complement for Joe Johnson in the Suns' backcourt. He can shoot, and he should also be able to get the ball to Amare Stoudemire inside. Rumors have this pick going to the Bulls, though.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Ben Gordon): The classic scoring point guard who is incredibly strong with excellent range.
NBA.com (Devin Harris): Phoenix could take a flyer on Pavel Podkolzine, but Harris fills an immediate need and has great NBA skills.
My Thoughts (Luke Jackson): It's an interesting Predicament here. The two best players available? Both Point guards, which the Bulls don't necessarily have a HUGE need for. However, the Bulls are high on Luke Jackson as well, so don't be shocked. I say the Bulls draft the best player that they need.... and that's Jackson.
8. Raptors SELECTION
ESPN (Luke Jackson): Why? This year's "Luke" out of Eugene has moved up more than anyone else in the draft. The Raptors love him and the word out of Toronto is that they'll take him if he's there. Still, it could be a smokescreen. With so many teams trying to move up in the draft to get Jackson, saying that you want him suddenly makes you the team everyone has to deal with in trade discussions.
USA TODAY (Andris Biedrins): Biedrins isn't the prototypical European big man. He plays in the paint and will team nicely with Chris Bosh inside.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Devin Harris) Another scoring point guard, more smooth than powerful like Gordon.
NBA.com (Andris Biedrins): Unlike many Europeans, Biedrins prefers to play inside and could provide help for Chris Bosh. Raptors will also consider any of the top point guards that slip.
My Thoughts (Gordon): I think the Raptors would be ecstatic that the choice is still there for Harris or Gordon and they'll take whoever is left, but if the choice is theirs, I say Gordon.
9. 76ers SELECTION
ESPN (Andris Biedrins): Why? Remember the power of the agents with this pick. Bill Duffy has clout. If Biedrins doesn't go to Philadelphia, he won't get past the Warriors, who have promised to pick him at No. 11. That's why he quit working out. But the Sixers claim they like him and know enough about him to draft him without a visit. ESPN Insider Chad Ford smells a bluff to get the Warriors to move up to No. 9.
USA TODAY (Ben Gordon): The Sixers won't have to use swingman Aaron McKie, PG Eric Snow's backup, with Gordon on board.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Andris Biedrins): Scouts love his long arms and defensive ability, hoping the offense will come. The Sixers need a power forward.
NBA.com (Josh Childress): Depending on what the team decides to do with Allen Iverson and Eric Snow, the Sixers could go in many directions. Childress fills a need for a skilled wing player.
My Thoughts (Andris Biedrins): A guy that I freely admit, I don't know that much about, but according to all those quotes out there, this guy fits a HUGE need for the 76ers. Harris/Gordon easily goes here as well if the 76ers want to find a backup for Snow. I'll be AMAZED if Childress is available here as NBA.com predicts, but if he is.... a STEAL.
10. Cavaliers SELECTION
ESPN (Josh Childress): Why? This is a steal if Childress really falls this far. And, remember, there have been plenty of past steals around the No. 9 and 10 picks. Chicago liked him at No. 3 and the Bobcats were in love with him when he they were at No. 4. The Hawks and Sixers are also big fans. If Cleveland can nab him, he'll be the perfect wing guy to put on the floor with LeBron.
USA TODAY (Jameer Nelson): The Cavs' playoff hopes disappeared when PG Jeff McInnis went down with an injury because they had no quality backup. That won't happen again with Nelson around.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Luke Jackson): Larry Bird compared him to Chris Mullin and the Cavs need a shooter. Bingo.
NBA.com (Luke Jackson): Jackson’s all-around skills would be a nice complement to LeBron James. Paul Silas likes tough-minded, experienced players.
My Thoughts (Devin Harris): Ok, so I may be taking it out a little on Harris, but I really think he could slip. The Cavs need two things, shooters and a point to go with McInnis. I agree with CBSSportsline, they may also slip Jackson in here. I repeat, Childress a steal here as well. CBSSportsline obviously doesn't read my blog :)
11. Warriors SELECTION
ESPN (Pavel Podkolzine): Why? Podkolzine will go somewhere in the top 15 and the Warriors want a big man. The question is can they live with a player who won't contribute more than seven minutes a half next season. Biedrins is a possibility here ... if he's around. The 7-foot prep Robert Swift is also on the Warriors' radar. The difference is five inches and 60 pounds in Pavel's favor. The Warriors have also scouted the big Russian heavily this year.
USA TODAY (Pavel Podkolzine): The Warriors get an insurance policy. Adonal Foyle is a free agent and Erick Dampier could opt out of his contract.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Jameer Nelson): The player of the year and the Warriors have constant injury issues at the position.
NBA.com (Jameer Nelson): It doesn’t fill a need, but Nelson would fit nicely with Jason Richardson, Mike Dunleavy and Troy Murphy.
My Thoughts (Pavel Podkolzine): Pavel or Jameer are great picks, but I go with the NEED prediction.
12. Sonics SELECTION
ESPN (Al Jefferson): Why? This was a tough call. That's why the Sonics are trying to trade this pick. The Sonics do love Jefferson and look at him as more of a face-up scorer than a back-to-the-basket scorer. Nevada's Kirk Snyder is a possibility here, but Seattle is so stocked on the perimeter with Barry (for the time being) and Allen. Rafael Araujo is another name to look for here, but the word is that Seattle is fond of Jefferson.
USA TODAY (Luke Jackson): Jackson will fit in nicely with the Sonics' perimeter-oriented offense. He has the versatility to play in the backcourt and gives them an insurance policy if they don't re-sign free agent Brent Barry.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Rafael Araujo): A classic wide body and he's got a nice shooting touch, where the Sonics need help badly.
NBA.com (Pavel Podkolzine): Sonics may have to wait a few years, but it could be worth it.
My Thoughts (Al Jefferson): Hey NBA.com, have you not seen the Sonics get burned with EVERY center they've tried to make work since Jack Sikma? If Pavel's here and they gamble again..... Whoa. I look at them to take Jefferson or Snyder, but Jefferson is who I'm going with because he fits a little MORE of a need. Snyder's great D makes him a potential, but he'd be fighting with Flip Murray, Rashard Lewis and Radmanovic for playing time. What is CBSSportsline thinking? Where the Sonics need help badly???? They have Ray Allen, Flip Murray, Rashard Lewis, Radmonovic and Bones. I'm not seeing a lack of shooting. A lack of Defense... now that might be true.
13. Blazers SELECTION
ESPN (Kirk Snyder): Why? This is another pick that has been rumored to be a promise. And while the Blazers deny any such "promise" has been made to Synder, if he's on the board at 13, he could be a steal. He's one of the best players in the draft. The only reason he's slipped this far is because of position. The point guards and the bigs will probably go early, but after that the talented swing guys (2s and 3s) will get a closer look.
USA TODAY (Kirk Snyder): The Blazers lost much of their perimeter shooting by traded Bonzi Wells to Memphis last season. Snyder will help in that area.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Josh Smith): The latest from the basketball factory being called a young Dominique Wilkins.
NBA.com (Kirk Snyder): His workouts and physical testing have lifted his stock. Portland’s most glaring need is in the backcourt.
My Thoughts (Snyder): Agreed, another rumored promise as I've heard all over the web.
14. Jazz SELECTION
ESPN (Sergei Monya): Why? The Jazz have been looking at Monya for a long time. This may be one of the surest picks in the draft. With this pick, the Jazz have made Andrei Kirilenko, a close friend of Monya, very happy.
USA TODAY (Sergey Monya): Monya gives the Jazz a very good option if they don't re-sign restricted free agent Gordan Giricek.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Sergei Monya): A classic pick for the Jazz -- hard worker, defensive-minded and can score eventually.
NBA.com (Sergei Monya): Rumor has it Utah has given him a promise. Comes from the same background as Andrei Kirilenko.
My Thoughts (Sergei Monya): Seems like the only lock in the draft other than Howard/Okafor at 1 and 2 (in no particular order).
15. Celtics SELECTION
ESPN (Robert Swift): Why? There's a lot of talk that Swift could be going higher -- as high as No. 11. So, if he makes it all the way to 15, the Celtics will definitely not pass on him. This pick has been in the works for months. There is no denying Swift is a raw product, but Boston wants to start young, and they're willing to wait. The C's are OK with him being a couple of years away from making an impact.
USA TODAY (Robert Swift): Celtics President Danny Ainge wants a team that runs. To do that, they need the basketball. Swift can go get the ball off the boards for them.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Pavel Podkolzine): The biggest player in the draft, he has good hands and can move. Good enough.
NBA.com (Robert Swift): Another rumored promise has Swift heading to Boston. Played well in high school all-star games, but hasn’t worked out for anybody.
My Thoughts (Robert Swift): I think this guy is the biggest gamble in the early part of the draft. AND.... I despise it when people don't work out for teams. It makes him look scared and I wouldn't draft the person for anything unless he carried the locked stardom of LeBron or Carmello. Even if he turns into a great player, I'm skeptical of the logic by his agent which obviously says we have nothing to gain and everything to lose.
16. Jazz SELECTION
ESPN (Rafael Araujo): Why? Utah gets the center it wants and this pick shouldn't be a surprise on Thursday night. Utah has liked him for a long time. He could also go to Boston one spot higher, but the Jazz have wanted him for a long time. And just because the Jazz got a closer look at him because he was just down the street, which school a player comes from doesn't make a huge difference in the draft.
USA TODAY (Rafael Araujo): The search for someone to replace Greg Ostertag is an annual event for the Jazz. Araujo could have enough athleticism and strength to end the hunt.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Kris Humphries): Could have used another year to get stronger, but another physical player -- sort of a 'tweener.
NBA.com (Rafael Araujo): One of the more polished inside players would help a great deal in Salt Lake.
My Thoughts (Rafael Araujo): They need another inside guy and this fills that need.
17. Hawks SELECTION
ESPN (Josh Smith): Why? Smith's agent claims this is the lowest the prep could possibly go. And Smith's people believe he could go as high as No. 5. He has been all over the board. He's one of the hardest players to get a read on in the draft. He falls on this board because he doesn't have a true position, and he's not as skilled as some guys. But he's by far the best athlete in the draft and the Hawks can afford to wait as two very good high school players develop.
USA TODAY (Josh Smith): The Hawks are looking for athletic players, and no one in the draft is more athletic than Smith.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Robert Swift): High School. Great hands and huge wingspan make him attractive, even if he's not close to being ready for this level.
NBA.com (Josh Smith): Hawks are in rebuilding mode and Smith could be the best athlete in the draft. Livingston and Smith could be scary down the road.
My Thoughts (Josh Smith): Smith has so much upside and is a great project for a great place to be a project right now.
18. Hornets SELECTION
ESPN (J.R. Smith): Why? Well, the Hornets need a shooter. And while Smith is very raw, he's probably the best shooter available. And this is probably the highest spot he could go in the draft. If the Hornets don't address a backcourt need, look for Kris Humphries to be mentioned.
USA TODAY (J.R. Smith): The Hornets are in the market for a wing player who can score because Jamal Mashburn's status is unsettled and Stacey Augmon is a free agent.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Kirk Snyder): This is low for such a mature and physical player with great skills.
NBA.com (Sasha Vujacic): Allan Bristow has said the team’s biggest need is along the perimeter. Vujacic could provide help at all three spots.
My Thoughts (J.R. Smith): He's one of the best athletes, has a great out side shot and can fly.
19. Heat SELECTION
ESPN (Jameer Nelson): Why? This is an absolute steal for the Heat. They need a point guard, and if the college national player of the year drops this low, Miami will be thrilled. Nelson had a great workout in the desert, so it wouldn't be a total shock to see him go as high as No. 7 to Phoenix. Then again, some general managers believe that he doesn't have the size to be a starting point guard in the league. Everyone likes him, but they like him as a guy off the bench -- as a 6th or 7th man. That's why he slips this low.
USA TODAY (Peter John Ramos): Frontcourt size was a glaring weakness for the Heat as they made an improbable run into the playoffs. Ramos solves that problem.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Peter John Ramos): This is another player who could go higher, but his skills and potential are dampened by very little experience.
NBA.com (Kris Humphries): He’s taller and stronger than originally thought. Miami is overloaded on the perimeter.
My Thoughts (Jameer Nelson): Agree with ESPN, a Steal at this pick, and could easily go up higher than this simply because he's the "Best available" guy. I could also see Ramos going here as the Heat do need some serious help inside.
20. Nuggets SELECTION
ESPN (Sasha Vujacic): Why? The Nuggets' roster is pretty crowded, so the Nuggets would prefer to take a guy and leave him in Europe for a year or two. Vujacic is the perfect player to do so. Remember, some of Denver's former No. 1 picks couldn't get on the floor this past season.
USA TODAY (Al Jefferson): The Nuggets get the big body (265 pounds) they need to help Nene bang inside.
CBSSPORTSLINE (J.R. Smith): An amazing jumper with great range on his jumper, but can he handle the ball in the NBA?
NBA.com (J.R. Smith): His talent suggests he could go higher. Denver is a great place for a young player to grow and learn.
My Thoughts (Peter John Ramos): ESPN? The Nuggets roster is crowded..... with a makeshift fit around Melo & Nene. Everyone else? For the most part....expendable. Kiki knows what he's doing. I think he gets a big man to go alongside Nene and Marcus Camby (when healthy) in the middle.
21. Jazz SELECTION
ESPN (Kris Humphries): Why? Once again this is a pick that is very fluid, not to mention the third for Utah. So a lot has to happen as projected, and Humphries could go as high as No. 15, but probably wouldn't go below No. 21. The one knock on the freshman Big Ten player of the year is he is a questionable teammate, which could make him slide a bit.
USA TODAY (Kris Humphries): Tom Gugliotta is a free agent, and his days with the Jazz could be numbered. Humphries can score on the outside and is not fearful of inside contact.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Al Jefferson): Young wide body with good footwork and touch around the basket, with range out to 12 feet.
NBA.com (Beno Udrih): Insurance in case Carlos Arroyo signs elsewhere. Was very impressive in Chicago.
My Thoughts (Kris Humphries): Raw Talent, plays bigger than he is listed and GREAT footwork (played for my hometown team). Attitude seems to be a question that keeps coming up, but he can't slide further than this and Sloan is definitely an Attitude eliminator.
22. Nets SELECTION
ESPN (Sebastian Telfair) - (Not sure what's going on here, ESPN has this pick as the blazers, but they are wrong): WHY? The Blazers might take Telfair at No. 13, but no other lottery team will take him. Other teams are looking at him, such as Denver and Boston. But this deal has been rumored for months. Mo Cheeks loves Telfair, so that's a start. Most coaches wouldn't love relying on a high school point guard in the pros. He'll have a lot of support in Portland.
USA TODAY (Sebastian Telfair): Telfair could be Jason Kidd's eventual replacement or trade bait. Shares Kidd's court vision and ball handling.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Dorell Wright): Great athleticism and long arms, but there is question about the refined skills of shooting, passing and ball-handling.
NBA.com (Sebastian Telfair): This pick is for Portland, which loves Telfair.
My Thoughts (David Harrison): I know lots of people are saying Telfair, but I don't see it. Why? Kidd's replacement? Did Kid turn 40 and I miss it? They can trade for a backup, but big Men are hard to come buy.
23. Blazers SELECTION
ESPN (Peter John Ramos): Why? Back-to-back picks in Portland bring the long and short of the draft. And while there are some off-court issues with Ramos, it probably won't deter the Blazers from gambling on the big fella. Still, at this point (in this draft), there is a host of names you could put at No. 23. There is also a chance Ramos will go higher.
USA TODAY (David Harrison): The Blazers get a big body so they aren't forced to play undersized Theo Ratliff and Dale Davis out of position.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Sebastian Telfair): People love his talent, but his size and strength are an issue initially.
NBA.com (P.J. Ramos) Having shored up backcourt needs, Blazers take the tallest player with the largest upside.
My Thoughts (Sebastian Telfair): I guess.... what else would Portland do?
24. Celtics SELECTION
ESPN (Dorell Wright): Why? This could be the biggest sleeper in the draft. When ESPN Insider Chad Ford saw him play in Connecticut this winter, he reminded him of a young T-Mac. He's two or three years away, but he's a good prospect this late in the draft. Besides, the Celtics have another pick...
USA TODAY (Dorell Wright): Up-tempo teams need scorers, and Wright is a scorer. Scored 53 and grabbed 20 rebounds in a game.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Danta Smith): A three-position talent with a 7-foot wingspan, great shooting range and ball-handling ability.
NBA.com (Dorell Wright): Another player rumored to be high on Danny Ainge’s wish list.
My Thoughts (Dorell Wright): Danny Ainge doesn't seem to be hiding his cards about what he wants. Rumor is he wants Wright.....
25. Celtics SELECTION
ESPN (Viktor Khryapa): Why? With its third first-round pick, Boston must do something to free up roster space. So, since they're not likely going to keep all three picks, it makes sense to take an international guy with their third and final selection. Khryapa stay overseas for now. Now, if the Celtics end up with Swift, Wright and Khryapa, our grandchildren will be the one's that see them develop. Obviously the draft won't be the short term answer to Boston's woes.
USA TODAY (Viktor Khryapa): The Celtics add more athleticism to their frontcourt. He can rebound and block shots.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Trevor Ariza): Versatile defender, with a multitude of skills, but must develop a consistent shot to make it in the league. His athleticism is worth the look.
NBA.com (Delonte West): Should be able to play a little at both guard spots.
My Thoughts (Danta Smith): Gets two athletes in one draft along with the big man Swift. What is CBSSportsline thinking? I'll be surprised if Ariza goes in round one..... And not even shocked if he doesn't go at all.
26. Kings SELECTION
ESPN (Donta Smith): Why? Smith has been high on the Kings' list for a few weeks. He's a late bloomer in terms of the draft process. There's a question about how much help he'll be in the next couple of seasons, but the Kings don't expect to get immediate help from this draft.
USA TODAY (Donta Smith): He can play three positions and will help the Kings upgrade their athleticism, something they lack.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Viktor Khryapa): Comes with a lot of the same skills as Andrei Kirilenko, which would make any coach happy if the results are the same.
NBA.com (David Harrison): Insurance in case Vlade Divac retires or signs with another team.
My Thoughts (Viktor Khryapa): A great pick for the kings. If Donta Smith drops though, I can see him going here as well.
27. Lakers SELECTION
ESPN (Anderson Varejao): Why? If Wright is the best American sleeper, this could be the international player who surprises folks the most in coming years. He's not a real scorer, but his motor runs at 100 mph and he's just a gritty guy. Think Bo Outlaw with Sideshow Bob's hairdo.
USA TODAY (Anderson Varejao): The Lakers go for an athletic big man as they try to solve their recurring problem at power forward.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Chris Duhon): His shooting is questionable, but he plays hard, is smart and defends.
NBA.com (Al Jefferson): Could spell the end for Slava Medvedenko.
My Thoughts (Anderson Varejao): They do need a PF.
28. Spurs SELECTION
ESPN (Beno Udrih): Why? Udrih was the star of the Chicago pre-draft camp. Has great size at his position and could be, at 22 years old, a steadying influence on Tony Parker. He's got a chance to be a solid contributor, but ESPN Insider Chad Ford isn't sure if he'll be better than say a Chris Duhon (who falls into the second round) in two seasons.
USA TODAY (Tony Allen): The Spurs go for a shooter who can help stretch the defense.
CBSSPORTSLINE (Anderson Varejao): A very aggressive player with size, but he has to work on his offensive skills to be an NBA factor.
NBA.com (Anderson Varejao): Spurs have liked him for a while.
My Thoughts: (Chris Duhon): I'm pulling for him. I've always been a UNC fan, but Duhon is a horse and winner. He plays D, distributes and hits the big shot....ALWAYS. A great pickup for the Spurs
29. Pacers SELECTION
ESPN (Delonte West): Why? Some teams believe that West will become a point guard in the pros. He's quicker and a better shooter than Jamaal Tinsley. Could be a steal if he's able to make the transformation in the league.
USA TODAY (Beno Udrih): The Pacers attempt to shore up their backup point guard situation. Anthony Johnson is limited offensively, and Kenny Anderson isn't likely to return.
CBSSPORTSLINE (David Harrison): They only hope a guy with his size and quickness lasts this long to give them some shot-blocking help.
NBA.com (Kevin Martin): Indiana’s lack of scoring hurt them in the playoffs.
My Thoughts (Tony Allen): Good shooter, good defender. Plus, who knows what the pacers will look like next year. I think he's the best player on the board (along with Udrih and West). But if I had to pick just one, he's who I'd bet on.
==================================================================
THAT'S IT!
11 minutes to go to the draft.....
Scoring coming tomorrow!!!
(EDIT) AH CRAP ....promise I haven't looked yet, forgot to add the last few NBA.com entries
Recent Comments