Official JBB Mock Draft 2007 v3.0 (Round 1 & 2) <font face=""Arial Black""><div align="center"><font size=""5"">FIRST ROUND</font></div></font> [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4545/portlandnq5.png[/imgl]1) Portland Trailblazers Greg Oden Ohio State - Center - 7'0", 257 lbs. 28.9 mpg, 15.7 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 0.7 apg, 3.3 bpg, 62% FG, 63% FT The Blazers arent fooling anyone when they say that theyre still undecided about whether to choose Oden or Durant. As talented as Durant is, Oden being the #1 pick has pretty much been a forgone conclusion since he was a high school sophomore. Durant may be more individually talented, but big men as talented as Oden come around far less often as talented wings like Durant do. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4878/seattlecd8.png[/imgl]2) Seattle Supersonics Kevin Durant Texas - Small Forward - 6'10", 215 lbs. 35.9 mpg, 25.8 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.9 spg, 1.9 bpg, 47% FG, 82% FT, 40% 3pt This pick is more of a #1b than a #2. Durant should really change the face of the franchise, and who knows, maybe hell even inspire enough enthusiasm from the local community to keep the team in Seattle. Despite testing very poor athletically at the recent Orlando Predraft Combine, Durant is actually one of the most athletic players in the draft. He has the body of a young Kevin Garnett, and the game of a young Tracy McGrady. [imgl]http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/6058/atlantaqc6.png[/imgl]3) Atlanta Hawks Al Horford Florida - Power Forward - 6'10", 244 lbs. 27.8 mpg, 13.2 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 bpg, 61% FG, 64% FT Assuming that this pick is going to be shipped to Minnesota in exchange for Amare Stoudemire, Horford is the ideal for the Timberwolves after losing Kevin Garnett. As Horfords former University of Florida teammate Joakim Noah says, hes the total package, a player with size, strength, and athleticism who can defend and rebound. Even if the Hawks kept this pick, theyd likely select Horford, despite having a bit of a logjam at the four position already. GM Billy Knight has shown in the past that hes not one to draft based on team needs. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/483/memphistl9.png[/imgl]4) Memphis Grizzlies Mike Conley, Jr. Ohio State - Point Guard - 6'1", 175 lbs. 31.6 mpg, 11.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 6.1 apg, 2.2 spg, 52% FG, 69% FT, 30% 3pt This is when the draft starts to get interesting. Brandan Wright is probably the best player available, and Mike Conley, Jr. addresses the Grizzlies biggest need, yet management seems to be very high on Joakim Noah. Each player really has about an equal chance of being selected here at the moment, but were going to go with Mike Conley, Jr. here. The Grizzlies know that underlying factor for offensive success is dribble penetration. Teams who can consistently get into the paint are victorious, and it starts with your point guard. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/6503/bostonny2.png[/imgl]5) Boston Celtics Yi Jianlian China - Power Forward - 7'0", 246 lbs. - Stats Not Available - Jianlian has hurt his own stock by refusing to workout with most teams, including several in the lottery. To Jianlian and his agent, its more important to wind up in the right situation than it is to wind up being picked the highest. Boston has been given the go-ahead by Jianlians agent to pick him, but apparently this pick is being heavily shopped to teams like Golden State and Sacramento, who may be looking to move up and snag him. Golden State seems to be coming on the most strongly at this point, apparently putting Jason Richardson and their #18 pick on the table. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4093/milwaukeeeu5.png[/imgl]6) Milwaukee Bucks Brandan Wright North Carolina - Power Forward - 6'10", 200 lbs. 27.4 mpg, 14.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.8 bpg, 65% FG, 57% FT The Bucks really like Al Horford, Yi Jianlian, and Mike Conley, Jr., but if all three are gone by their pick, then theyll likely take Brandan Wright. Even though they dont necessarily need another four with Charlie Villanueva already on the roster, Wrights too good to pass up on if he slips all the way to #6. His talent is off the charts for someone with his size, length, and athleticism. Corey Brewer would be another possibility here though, because he would fill a team need, giving them the perimeter defense they sorely lack. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/9867/minnesotadl5.png[/imgl]7) Minnesota Timberwolves Spencer Hawes Washington - Center - 7'1", 244 lbs. 28.9 mpg, 14.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.7 bpg, 53% FG, 76% FT Its been a rumor for a while that Minnesota has promised Spencer Hawes the #7 pick after favorable workouts against Joakim Noah, and even though it may not be true, itd make a lot of sense if it were. The Timberwolves roster is lacking in size, especially with Kevin Garnett likely leaving on draft night, and they could use a legitimate starting center more than any other position. Hawes is one of the few great freshmen like Brandan Wright and Thaddeus Young who were overshadowed by the play Kevin Durant and Greg Oden this season. The fact of the matter though is that hes the best offensive post player in the draft outside of Greg Oden, and thats saying a lot considering that hes only nineteen years old. Hes a throwback whose advanced footwork makes up for his lack of strength, allowing him to contribute on the NBA level even before he adds more weight to his frame. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/8507/charlottevh2.png[/imgl]8) Charlotte Bobcats Corey Brewer Florida - Small Forward - 6'8", 185 lbs. 28.7 mpg, 13.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.9 spg, 48% FG, 72% FT, 34% 3pt The Bobcats are a likely candidate to trade this pick to the Suns, but if they keep it, Corey Brewer would be the ideal pick for them. They need help on the wing more than any other position, especially defensively now that it looks like Gerald Wallace could be skipping town in the free agency. If the Suns do wind up with the pick though, then Brewer is still the likely pick if on the board. He doesnt fit in with them offensively, because his jumpers not on par with the rest of the Suns, but defensively hed be able to contribute from day one. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3637/chicagouv8.png[/imgl]9) Chicago Bulls Joakim Noah Florida - Power Forward - 7'0", 223 lbs. 25.9 mpg, 12.0 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.1 spg, 1.8 bpg, 61% FG, 66% FT What makes a successful draft for most picks is the opportunity to play for the right coach and system. Noah will thrive in the Bulls system because he can focus on the same role he played at Florida. At Florida Noah didnt have to score to contribute, and he wont have to in Chicago either. He can do what he does best, which is fight for loose balls, rebound, defend from the weakside, and provide a spark for his teammates when hes on the floor. Noah should be able to give the Bulls some minutes at PF and C. With PJ Brown retiring a lot of minutes become available for both Noah and Tyrus Thomas to compete over. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/5804/sacramentoxc3.png[/imgl]10) Sacramento Kings Jeff Green Georgetown - Small Forward - 6'10", 228 lbs. 33.3 mpg, 14.3 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.2 bpg, 51% FG, 78% FT, 38% 3pt The Kings could use pretty much anything this year, and so theyll likely just take the best player thats available when they pick, which in this case is Gerald Green. He doesnt satisfy an immediate need, but if Ron Artest gets dealt like hes expected too, then Green can step right in and fill his void. Not many players in this years draft are as NBA ready as Green. He doesnt have the high ceiling of a player like Julian Wright, but hell be able to contribute right off the bat. [imgl]http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/6058/atlantaqc6.png[/imgl]11) Atlanta Hawks Acie Law IV Texas A&M - Point Guard - 6'4", 186 lbs. 33.9 mpg, 18.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 5.0 apg, 1.1 spg, 50% FG, 78% FT, 46% 3pt The Hawks apparently dont feel like theyre that far out of the playoff race in the East, so that may keep them from taking Javaris Crittenton, a player whos years off from reaching his potential. Instead, Law IV is a player who can come right in and command the respect of his teammates. This is also a pick that is being shopped heavily. The talk of a potential trade for Jarrett Jack has died down, but this could also potentially be the point in the draft where Phoenix moves in. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4071/philadelphiagd3.png[/imgl]12) Philadelphia 76ers Julian Wright Kansas - Small Forward - 6'9", 211 lbs. 27.6 mpg, 12.0 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.3 bpg, 55% FG, 61% FT While Wright doesnt necessarily fit a need for the Sixers, who are in desperate need of help in the frontcourt, hed be too hard to pass up on if he slipped all the way to #12. He has arguably one of the four or five highest ceilings in the draft, and if the Sixers cant find a trade partner, they could always play him at the four, where he spent most of his time in both high school and college. At 69, 220 lbs., he has the height and length to play in the post on the next level, but hes still too weak to be as effective as he would be if he played out on the wing. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7356/nohmv2.png[/imgl]13) New Orleans Hornets Thaddeus Young Georgia Tech - Small Forward - 6'8", 210 lbs. 29.6 mpg, 14.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.3 spg, 48% FG, 74% FT, 42% 3pt The Hornets will likely loose Desmond Mason to free agency, so theyll need to fill the void he leaves, but they have enough money to go out and get a replacement shooting guard as a free agent. Its probably more important for them, in both the shot and long-term, to get a backup for Peja Stojakovic, whose back has proven to be a recurring, nagging injury that makes it hard for him to get through an entire season without missing long stretches on the IR. As the former consensus #4 ranked recruit in the class of 2006, Thad Young was largely overlooked this season by the national media due to Georgia Techs struggles, as well as the attention drawn by freshmen Kevin Durant and Greg Oden, but hes got every bit as much potential as any player in the draft. An explosive 68 wing who shot the ball from downtown at a 42% clip his freshman season, Youngs only real deficiencies lie in his inexperience. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/5040/lacju9.png[/imgl]14) Los Angeles Clippers Javaris Crittenton Georgia Tech - Point Guard - 6'5", 194 lbs. 31.3 mpg, 14.4 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 5.8 apg, 2.0 spg, 45% FG, 78% FT, 36% 3pt If Javaris Crittenton is available here, he could be the ideal pick for the Clippers. Even though Acie Law IV is more experienced, Sam Cassells probably got at least two good years left in him, so the Clippers dont necessarily need a point guard immediately for anything other than a bench role, and as a result, they can afford to bring a project like Javaris Crittenton off the bench for a few years while he develops. Crittentons college career ended on a sour note, so expect him to carry a chip on his shoulder once he enters the NBA. Having a roster of talented scorers, will take a lot of the pressure off Crittenton and he wont be forced to shoulder the scoring load like he dealt with at Georgia Tech. Crittenton can focus on setting up his teammates, push tempo, and choose his spots on offense. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4600/detroitpu6.png[/imgl]15) Detroit Pistons Rodney Stuckey Eastern Washington - Combo Guard - 6'5", 207 lbs. 33.3 mpg, 24.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 5.5 apg, 2.4 spg, 45% FG, 85% FT, 27% 3pt While at one point it looked as if the Pistons needed to add depth in the frontcourt with this pick, it now appears as if both Chris Webber and Antonio McDyess will resign, so their biggest need at this point now becomes backcourt depth, especially with Carlos Delfino recently being shipped out of town to Toronto. Stuckeys not only the best backcourt player available here, but there have also been rumors for a while now that the Pistons have promised Stuckey the pick, a rumor thats been fueled by Rodney Stuckey recently getting a green room invite for tomorrows draft. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1489/washingtongk6.png[/imgl]16) Washington Wizards Nick Young Southern Cal - Shooting Guard - 6'7", 206 lbs. 33.2 mpg, 17.5 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.4 apg, 53% FG, 79% FT, 44% 3pt The Wizards need a center that can score more than anything, but the options available at #16 arent worth drafting. Nick Young is not only the best player available at this point, but hed also fill their next biggest need, depth on the wing, as the Wizards stand to lose Deshawn Stevenson, Jarvis Hayes, and Roger Mason in free agency. Nick Young matured this past season at USC with his shot selection and decision making. He didnt try to force his offense and learned how to take what the defense gave him. Young did a fantastic job of balancing his scoring along with playmaking for teammates, and thats exactly what the Wizards need out of their draft pick this year. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8320/njnod9.png[/imgl]17) New Jersey Nets Josh McRoberts Duke - Power Forward - 6'10", 240 lbs. 35.3 mpg, 13.0 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 3.5 apg, 1.2 spg, 2.5 bpg, 50% FG, 66% FT The New Jersey Nets have been searching for a frontcourt presence since Kenyon Martin and his rickety knees hobbled to Denver. With the 17th pick in the draft, the New Jersey Nets go with size and talent by selecting Josh McRoberts. He recently signed with an agent after an impressive workout with the Nets. Rumor is he might have a promise here, and it could be the ideal situation for him. Jason Kidd is still healthy and running the point, and he has shown the ability to get the most out of the athletic forwards. Kidd made Kenyon Martin look like an All-Star, made Mikki Moore look like an NBA player, and should be able to get the same results with McRoberts. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7008/gswby2.png[/imgl]18) Golden State Warriors Al Thornton Florida State - Combo Forward - 6'7", 221 lbs. 31.2 mpg, 19.7 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 0.7 apg, 1.5 spg, 1.1 bpg, 53% FG, 79% FT, 44% 3pt Thornton would be the ideal fit for the Warriors. Hes a guy who brings the physical strength that the Warriors lacked in their series with the Jazz last season. Hes quick and athletic enough to play out on the wing for most teams, but hes strong enough to play in the post in Nellies system, like he did in spurts in high school. At this point in the draft, Thorntons also just too good to pass up based on talent alone, as the former All-ACC First Team forward could go as high as #6 to Milwaukee. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4397/lalwh4.png[/imgl]19) Los Angeles Lakers Jason Smith Colorado State - PF/C - 7'0", 233 lbs. 30.2 mpg, 16.8 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.6 bpg, 58% FG, 77% FT The Lakers are a likely candidate to trade their pick, as there is widespread speculation the Lakers could end up dealing this pick to acquire Jermaine ONeal, but still, their second unit was abysmal for much of last season. They were constantly outplayed, and werent sure where the offense was going to come from off the bench. Without confidence, the second unit played with indecision and inconsistency, so it wouldnt be unfathomable that they kept this pick and went for frontcourt help with a player like Jason Smith or Tiago Splitter, especially with Brian Cook likely leaving the team. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/355/miamiqc0.png[/imgl]20) Miami Heat Derrick Byars Vanderbilt - SG/SF - 6'7", 220 lbs. 31.4 mpg, 17.0 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 3.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 46% FG, 71% FT, 37% 3pt The Heat are only a shell of their 2006 championship team and could use a bit of everything, but with Eddie Jones, James Posey, and Jason Kopono all possibly leaving during free agency, the safest route for them to go would be to pick up one of the talented wings thatll be around at #20, like Derrick Byars. Even though the Heat already have the more athletic Dorell Wright on their roster, Byars is more ready for NBA play than Wright is at this point and has a grasp of the game fundamentally that Wright will probably never have, which is the most evident on the defensive end, where Byars excels more than any other wing in this years draft outside of Corey Brewer. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4071/philadelphiagd3.png[/imgl]21) Philadelphia 76ers Glen Davis LSU - Power Forward - 6'9", 295 lbs. 35.0 mpg, 17.7 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.1 spg, 48% FG, 71% FT, 35% 3pt Big Babys stock has skyrocketed as of late, as hes shown up taller, leaner, and more athletic than most expected him to be. With the Sixers need for low-post scoring, Glen Davis would be a decent fit in Philadelphia. Hes only 68, yet he has the strength and agility necessary to be an effective force on the glass. With both Davis and Dalembert in the frontcourt, the Sixers will have one of the best rebounding frontlines in the league. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/8507/charlottevh2.png[/imgl]22) Charlotte Bobcats Daequan Cook Ohio State - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 203 lbs. 19.7 mpg, 9.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 1.0 apg, 45% FG, 70% FT, 42% 3pt The Charlotte Bobcats will look for value with their second of two first round picks. They have a lot of money to spend on free agents this summer for immediate needs, and will continue to develop their core of young players. With new head coach Sam Vincent taking over, he will want savvy players, who move well without the basketball and play with an edge. Daequan Cook would probably land in the lottery if he stayed a year at Ohio State, so drafting him with their late first round pick should pay dividends in the long run for the Bobcats. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/6711/nykwg0.png[/imgl]23) New York Knicks Wilson Chandler DePaul - Small Forward - 6'8", 230 lbs. 31.7 mpg, 14.6 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.4 bpg, 45% FG, 65% FT, 33% 3pt With Chandler canceling all of his remaining workouts after he worked out in New York, the rumor is that the Knicks have promised Chandler their first round pick. Even though Chandler was projected as a second round pick before this alleged promise, his status was more due to most experts lack of knowledge about him, as he played for 20-14 DePaul and seemed an unlikely candidate to declare early. Hes got all the raw physical tools that make mid-first round picks like Thaddeus Young and Nick Young so intriguing, but hes a much worse shooter and is still very raw on both sides of the ball. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7077/phoenixiw9.png[/imgl]24) Phoenix Suns Marco Belinelli Italy - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 200 lbs. - Stats Not Available - If the Suns cant package their two late first rounders, then theyll likely go international with at least one of the picks. Theyre looking to cut down the team payroll to avoid the luxury tax, so drafting a player like Marco Belinelli, who can continue playing with his international team for a while, would be a good move for them to make in the long-term. The Suns swingmen arent exactly the youngest players in the NBA either, so in adding Belinelli, theyre adding someone that could be the future replacement for players like Raja Bell or Shawn Marion. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/8992/utahrh5.png[/imgl]25) Utah Jazz Rudy Fernandez Spain - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 172 lbs. - Stats Not Available - After Utahs re-emergence in the playoffs, the Jazz dont need to add much to their roster become a top dog. There is one problem right now though, they are lacking rosters spots and cap space. Last year Utah addressed the perimeter defense by drafting Ronnie Brewer, so they need an offensive minded guard to rotate in. So Kevin OConnor and the front office grab the streaky Spaniard, Rudy Fernandez, with confidence. With resigning Dee Brown and C.J. Miles on Utahs mind, they probably will plan on keeping Rudy Fernandez overseas for awhile. Sloan usually doesnt play rookies anyways, so waiting for him should be no problem. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/248/houstonlc6.png[/imgl]26) Houston Rockets Nick Fazekas Nevada - Power Forward - 6'11", 240 lbs. 30.3 mpg, 20.4 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.5 bpg, 57% FG, 85% FT, 43% 3pt With Juwan Howard recently being dealt to Minnesota, the Rockets are in need of a power forward who can come off the bench for Chuck Hayes, who the Rockets also risk losing as a restricted free agent this summer. They also need another shooter on their roster, as Head could be on his way out, and both Battier and Snyder aren't that great at shooting the longball. With that said, they can address both of those needs if they stretch for Nick Fazekas, a player who most project as a early-to-mid second rounder. Fazekas' stock has been killed by his apparent lack of athleticism, but he had one of the most amazingly productive collegiate careers of anyone in the draft, averaging 20.4 ppg and 11.1 rpg for a Nevada Wolfpack team that only lost five games all season long. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4600/detroitpu6.png[/imgl]27) Detroit Pistons Sean Williams Boston College - PF/C - 6'10", 235 lbs. 32.2 mpg, 12.1 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.4 spg, 5.0 bpg, 55% FG, 70% FT If he can stay clean, Williams would be an absolute steal here, but the fact that hes been given multiple chances to reform yet has still never cleaned up makes you think that hes not exactly enthusiastic about changing his ways. If there were one team that hed be a good fit on though, itd be the Pistons. Not only would it be great for him to be an environment with a lot of experienced veterans who play team-oriented basketball, but hell also fit right into the Pistons defensive scheme, as Williams is one of the most dominant shot blocker in the draft, with arguably better instincts than the top overall prospect, Greg Oden. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2609/sasod8.png[/imgl]28) San Antonio Aaron Gray Pittsburgh - Center - 7'2", 271 lbs. 28.2 mpg, 13.9 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.7 bpg, 57% FG, 55% FT A few weeks ago, it looked like the Spurs would likely use this pick to draft another European like Rudy Fernandez or Marco Belinelli, but with Fabricio Oberto's recent announcement that he's going to opt for free agency, the Spurs now need to address their backup center position. Gray is not going to be the next great big man, but he's more than capable of playing a Greg Ostertag-ish role on the next level, something which could really be useful to the Spurs, who lack considerable frontcourt depth. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7077/phoenixiw9.png[/imgl]29) Phoenix Tiago Splitter Brazil - Power Forward - 7'0", 240 lbs. - Stats Not Available - This may seem a little low for Splitter, but the reality is that with his contract concerns, he may fall as far as the second round. Based on talent alone, he's probably a late lottery pick, but his buyout will likely leave him in Europe for a year, meaning that whoever drafts him has to be a team who doesn't need immediate help in the draft, like Phoenix. Although Splitter is a limited scorer, his size, athleticism, and skillset are ideal for the run and gun Suns. Splitter has the athleticism to keep up with the rest of the Suns on the break as well as the size, bulk, and toughness to provide some inside presence against larger frontlines. Splitter wont be a franchise big man for the Suns but he can step right in immediately and help with defense and rebounding from day one, shoring up the Suns two biggest weaknesses. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4071/philadelphiagd3.png[/imgl]30) Philadelphia Morris Almond Rice - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 215 lbs. 33.4 mpg, 26.4 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.2 spg, 48% FG, 85% FT, 46% 3pt The Sixers are actively shopping this pick, but if they keep it, then they'll likely go with the best player available here. There's too much perimeter talent available at this stage for them to reach for a big man like Kyle Visser or Kyrylo Fesenko in the first round, especially when they have the #38 pick coming right around the corner. With that in mind, Morris Almond, Marcus Williams, and Jared Dudley can all find themselves being picked here, but we went with Almond, who will instantly compete for minutes with Kyle Korver and Willie Green at the two-guard spot, giving the Sixers a surprisingly intimidating rotation of scoring-minded wing players.
<font face=""Arial Black""><div align="center"><font size=""5"">SECOND ROUND</font></div></font> [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4878/seattlecd8.png[/imgl]31) Seattle – Marcus Williams Arizona - Combo Guard - 6'7", 205 lbs. 32.9 mpg, 16.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.1 spg, 49% FG, 70% FT, 29% 3pt The Sonics already have a very well-rounded lineup, but could use some backcourt depth, so having Williams, a Seattle native, fall into their lap would be ideal for the Supes. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/6503/bostonny2.png[/imgl]32) Boston – Jared Dudley Boston College - Small Forward - 6'7", 219 lbs. 38.4 mpg, 19.0 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.4 spg, 56% FG, 74% FT, 44% 3pt The Celtics are a team that legitimately feels they can win now. They're going to be making a run at the playoffs next year and don't have time to waste on anymore projects. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2609/sasod8.png[/imgl]33) San Antonio – Gabe Pruitt Southern Cal - Point Guard - 6'4", 170 lbs. 33.1 mpg, 12.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 4.3 apg, 1.8 spg, 42% FG, 80% FT, 35% 3pt With Beno Udrih being actively shopped by the Spurs, they could use a point guard with their early second round pick. Pruitt isn't the floor general that Parker is, but other than that, he's the most Parker-esque player in this year's draft. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/6346/dallaski3.png[/imgl]34) Dallas – Kyle Visser Wake Forest - Center - 7'0", 242 lbs. 29.0 mpg, 17.0 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 0.6 apg, 1.4 bpg, 58% FG, 64% FT The late-blooming Visser could be just what the Mavericks need to shore up their frontcourt. In a game full of European-style big men, it's refreshing to see a throw-back lowpost player like Visser. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4878/seattlecd8.png[/imgl]35) Seattle – Renaldas Seibutis Lithuana - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 185 lbs. - Stats Not Available - With the second of the Sonics' two early second round picks, they'll likely draft a player who they can develop overseas next season. Seibutis seems to be one of their favorites. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7008/gswby2.png[/imgl]36) Golden State – Alando Tucker Wisconsin - Small Forward - 6'6", 205 lbs. 32.8 mpg, 19.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.0 apg, 47% FG, 66% FT, 33% 3pt Tucker dominated collegiately, but the former Wisconsin post player lacks a pro position. However, in Nellie's system, Tucker could get away with logging some time at the four. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4545/portlandnq5.png[/imgl]37) Portland – Petteri Koponen Finland - Point Guard - 6'4", 194 lbs. - Stats Not Available - The Blazers have a lot of second round picks and not a lot of roster spaces, so they'll use at least one of their picks on an international player who can spend some time overseas until a roster spot opens up. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4071/philadelphiagd3.png[/imgl]38) Philadelphia – Kyrylo Fesenko Ukraine - PF/C - 7'1", 270 lbs. - Stats Not Available - After taking the best players regardless of their position two times already in this mock, it's time for the 76'ers to address their need for frontcourt depth with the #38 pick. Fesenko, as a European, also gives their roster flexibility. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/355/miamiqc0.png[/imgl]39) Miami – Taurean Green Florida - Point Guard - 6'1", 173 lbs. 33.2 mpg, 13.3 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 3.7 apg, 1.1 spg, 44% FG, 85% FT, 40% 3pt Jason Williams' time in Miami is limited, Gary Payton's on the brink of retirement, and Dwyane Wade is much better off as a two-guard. With that said, the local kid would be a great long-term investment for the Heat. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4397/lalwh4.png[/imgl]40) Los Angeles Lakers – Arron Afflalo UCLA - Shooting Guard - 6'5", 215 lbs. 32.9 mpg, 16.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.9 apg, 46% FG, 80% FT, 38% 3pt The Lakers don't necessarily have a need for Afflalo, but then again, it's hard to tell what their roster will look like headed into next season. Simply as the best player available, it'd be hard to pass him up if he slipped all the way to #40, especially considering his large Los Angeles fan base. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/9867/minnesotadl5.png[/imgl]41) Minnesota – Herbert Hill Providence - Power Forward - 6'10", 232 lbs. 32.0 mpg, 18.1 ppg, 8.8 rpg, 1.4 apg, 2.9 bpg, 64% FG, 60% FT The Timberwolves are one of the teams who are particularly high on Herbert Hill, and with Kevin Garnett on the block, the only apparent needs Minnesota have are in the frontcourt. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4545/portlandnq5.png[/imgl]42) Portland – Marc Gasol Spain - Center - 7'0", 265 lbs. - Stats Not Available - With Randolph on the block, Aldridge's health in question, and Magloire a free agent, the Blazers are likely to draft more frontcourt players than just Greg Oden. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7356/nohmv2.png[/imgl]43) New Orleans – Trey Johnson Jackson State - Shooting Guard - 6'6", 216 lbs. 37.8 mpg, 27.1 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.6 apg, 41% FG, 74% FT, 33% 3pt After taking Thaddeus Young at #13, the Hornets will need to take a two-guard with scoring ability like Trey Johnson with their second round pick. They lose Desmond Mason in free agency and need all the scoring on the wing they can get. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/71/orlandocu2.png[/imgl]44) Orlando – Sun Yue China - Small Forward - 6'9", 205 lbs. - Stats Not Available - After an impressive showing in the Orlando Predraft Combine, Yue's stock has never been higher. If the Magic's main priority is resigning Milicic, then they may not have the cap room to go after Lewis or Carter in free agency, making Yue a good pick here. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/5040/lacju9.png[/imgl]45) Los Angeles Clippers – Zoran Erseg Croatia - Power Forward - 6'11", 210 lbs. - Stats Not Available - The Clippers are incredibly well-rounded at every position after taking Javaris Crittenton at #14, so they'll likely be either shopping their second round pick or looking to take an international player like Erseg, who they don't have to bring over right away. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7008/gswby2.png[/imgl]46) Golden State – Dominic McGuire Fresno State - Small Forward - 6'8", 220 lbs. 32.9 mpg, 13.5 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.3 apg, 3.6 bpg, 47% FG, 59% FT, 30% 3pt McGuire is another player who could fit Nellie's system very well. He's tall, athletic, and versatile, being able to legitimately play any position one through four on the next level. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1489/washingtongk6.png[/imgl]47) Washington – Ali Traore France - Power Forward - 6'10", 249 lbs. - Stats Not Available - The Wizards are in need of post offense, and they're one of the few teams that Traore granted a workout for. There are some concerns about Traore's heart, but based on talent alone, he'd be a great fit for Washington. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4397/lalwh4.png[/imgl]48) Los Angeles Lakers – Ramon Sessions Nevada - Point Guard - 6'4", 185 lbs. 30.2 mpg, 12.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 4.7 apg, 45% FG, 83% FT, 38% 3pt The Lakers' point guard position has been unstable these past few years, to say the least. Parker's leaving, and Farmar still needs to add a considerable amount of strength, so even if Head does come in via trade, the Lakers should probably take a point guard in the second round. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3637/chicagouv8.png[/imgl]49) Chicago – JamesOn Curry Oklahoma State - Combo Guard - 6'3", 190 lbs. 37.0 mpg, 17.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 3.7 apg, 1.2 spg, 45% FG, 79% FT, 41% 3pt There was a rumor going around that the Bulls had promised Curry their pick, and even if that's not true, it makes sense. After likely taking a big man in the past two drafts, the Bulls will likely look for a possible replacement for Chris Duhon here, as he's actively being shopped. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/6346/dallaski3.png[/imgl]50) Dallas – Stanko Barac Bosnia - Center - 7'1", 235 lbs. - Stats Not Available - Barac's game is extremely raw at this point, but he has all of the raw physical abilities of an NBA big man. Dallas doesn't necessarily need their late second round pick to come right in and contribute, so they can leave Barac in Europe until he's ready to contribute. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3637/chicagouv8.png[/imgl]51) Chicago – Carl Landry Purdue - Power Forward - 6'9", 248 lbs. 30.4 mpg, 18.9 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 1.2 apg, 60% FG, 73% FT Landry's not ready to contribute defensively on the NBA level, and he may never be, but he should find a niche for himself as an offensive spark off the bench for the Bulls' defensive-minded frontline. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4545/portlandnq5.png[/imgl]52) Portland – Reyshawn Terry North Carolina - Small Forward - 6'8", 222 lbs. 21.5 mpg, 9.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 1.7 apg, 49% FG, 74% FT, 44% 3pt If Terry fell to this point, he could very well wind up being the steal of the draft. He was largely overlooked at North Carolina playing alongside guys like Tyler Hansbrough and Brandan Wright in the frontcourt, but he's exactly the type of unselfish player the Blazers are looking to replace Travis Outlaw with. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4545/portlandnq5.png[/imgl]53) Portland – Marko Tomas Croatia - Shooting Guard - 6'8", 210 lbs. - Stats Not Available - Once seen as a lottery prospect, Tomas' stock has plummeted due injury problems, but one thing remains constant in Tomas' game, his picture-perfect jumper. At #53, you won't find anyone who can shoot the rock better than Tomas. [imgl]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/248/houstonlc6.png[/imgl]54) Houston - Bobby Brown Cal State Fullerton - Point Guard - 6'2", 170 lbs. 34.6 mpg, 20.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 5.1 apg, 1.3 spg, 47% FG, 79% FT, 39% 3pt The Rockets recently acquired the #54 pick from the Magic in a deal that could mean the selection of Cal State Fullerton point guard Bobby Brown. He recently had very impressive workouts for the Rockets, who may need a point guard in his mold if they ship Luther Head to Los Angeles as expected. Brown's a prolific scorer, but like Head, his ability to run an offense is still a big question mark, largely because he's been the focal point of his team's offense the last four years. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/8992/utahrh5.png[/imgl]55) Utah – Ionut Dragusin Romania - Center - 7'3", 287 lbs. - Stats Not Available - Most analysts and fans don't know much about this Romanian giant, but according to a recent article in the Boston Globe, Dragusin has caught the eye of several teams and is a very likely candidate to be picked just because of his massive size (7'3", 287 lbs.). [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4093/milwaukeeeu5.png[/imgl]56) Milwaukee – Jared Jordan Marist - Point Guard - 6'2", 183 lbs. 37.9 mpg, 17.2 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 8.7 apg, 1.4 spg, 43% FG, 69% FT, 30% 3pt With Mike Conley, Jr. going before the Bucks' first round pick, they'll likely take a point guard with their late second rounder. They don't necessarily need one at the moment, but with Mo Williams, Earl Boykins, and Charlie Bell as a free agents, they could be needing one very soon. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4600/detroitpu6.png[/imgl]57) Detroit – Demetris Nichols Syracuse - Small Forward - 6'8", 211 lbs. 34.8 mpg, 18.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.4 spg, 45% FG, 85% FT, 42% 3pt If Nichols fell to the Pistons at #57, he'd be a no-brainer pick for Joe Dumars. He's not just the best player available but is someone who can step right in and carve out a niche for himself in the Piston's offense as a spot-up shooter off the bench as well. [imgl]http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2609/sasod8.png[/imgl]58) San Antonio – Joao Gomes Portugal - Small Forward - 6'7", 200 lbs. - Stats Not Available - The Spurs have the best team of international scouts in the business, so it's pretty much a forgone conclusion that they draft a player who they'll keep overseas in every year's draft. Gomes comes from a small market team in Portugal, so his skills could use a little refining before his comes over anyway. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7077/phoenixiw9.png[/imgl]59) Phoenix – Jermareo Davidson Alabama - Power Forward - 6'11", 230 lbs. 32.3 mpg, 14.0 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.5 apg, 2.3 bpg, 41% FG, 78% FT After a season full of adversity, including the loss of both his brother and girlfriend, Davidson's stock has dropped to the point where he may even go undrafted, but he's got the type of game perfect for the Suns' run-and-gun system. [imgl]http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/6346/dallaski3.png[/imgl]60) Dallas – Zabian Dowdell Virginia Tech - Combo Guard - 6'3", 191 lbs. 33.8 mpg, 17.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 3.1 apg, 2.1 spg, 46% FG, 81% FT, 39% 3pt Dowdell could go as high as the late first round, so the Mavericks would gladly take him if he fell to them at #60. Dowdell's playmaking ability came under fire last season at Virginia Tech, but he put most of those concerns to rest with a dominating performance at the Orlando Predraft Combine. On the Bubble: Quinton Hosley (Fresno State, SF), Stephane Lasme (UMass, PF), Coby Karl (Boise State, SG), J.R. Reynolds (Virginia, PG), Mustafa Shakur (Arizona, PG), D.J. Strawberry (Maryland, SG), Russell Carter (Notre Dame, SG), Brad Newley (Australia, SG), Luka Bogdanovic (Serbia, SF), Caleb Green (Oral Roberts, PF), Darryl Watkins (Syracuse, C), Ekene Ibekwe (Maryland,PF), Courtney Sims (Michigan, PF/C), Chris Richard (Florida, PF), Jamal Tatum (Southern Illinois, PG), Ivan Radenovic (Arizona, PF), Ryvon Covile (Detroit, PF), Curtis Sumpter (Villanova, SF), Ron Lewis (Ohio State, SG)
There is no chance that Thornton falls all the way down down to 18. As long as nobody with superstar potential falls to 12 (Conley, Brewer, Green, etc.) he will be the Sixers pick. Can't complain about any of the Sixers first round picks though, personally, I'm a fan of all 3 players. Just saying, there's no way we pass up Thornton. Wright isn't a guy that can score at will, Thornton is, that's what we need.
<div class="quote_poster">C.K. Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">There is no chance that Thornton falls all the way down down to 18. As long as nobody with superstar potential falls to 12 (Conley, Brewer, Green, etc.) he will be the Sixers pick. Can't complain about any of the Sixers first round picks though, personally, I'm a fan of all 3 players. Just saying, there's no way we pass up Thornton. Wright isn't a guy that can score at will, Thornton is, that's what we need.</div> It's one thing to say that he's got higher stock, but to boldly say that he has no chance of falling? That's just daft. Once you get past the Sixers, the only team that will be realistically looking at Thornton is the New Jersey, who seem to have zeroed in on Josh McRoberts already. Also, as for "as long as nobody with superstar potential falls to 12," like I said in the mock, and I'm sure most analysts would agree, Wright has arguably one of the four or five highest ceilings in the draft. He's falling for a lot of reasons, but his potential isn't one of them.
<div class="quote_poster">Voodoo Child Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">It's one thing to say that he's got higher stock, but to boldly say that he has no chance of falling? That's just daft. Once you get past the Sixers, the only team that will be realistically looking at Thornton is the New Jersey, who seem to have zeroed in on Josh McRoberts already. Also, as for "as long as nobody with superstar potential falls to 12," like I said in the mock, and I'm sure most analysts would agree, Wright has arguably one of the four or five highest ceilings in the draft. He's falling for a lot of reasons, but his potential isn't one of them.</div> He's not getting past the Sixers though, that's my point. I should have said "superstar" differently. The only way they don't pick Thornton at 12 is if he's already off the board (very likely) or if somebody falls to them that wasn't even suppose to be on the board, like a Mike Conley or a Jeff Green or a Corey Brewer.
<div class="quote_poster">C.K. Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">He's not getting past the Sixers though, that's my point. I should have phrased "superstar" differently. The only way they don't pick Thornton at 12 is if he's already off the board (very likely) or if somebody falls to them that wasn't even suppose to be on the board, like a Mike Conley or a Jeff Green or a Corey Brewer.</div> Jeff Green's still in their range. In fact, most would argue that Wright's the smarter pick. Green's just more ready to contribute and has a few fans in the lottery. Come to think of it, some of the mocks out there either have Wright going ahead of Brewer too (like nbadraft.net). Why you don't think he's in that class is beyond me. Either way, how is Thornton a better pick than Wright? They play the exact same position. If anything, Wright will be more productive offensively on the next level. Really, comparing their ball handling skills are laughable. Thornton may have been a better scorer collegiately, but the pro's are a whole nother story.
We've seen many examples of players dropping despite having more talent or stock value. Most teams are ultra-conservative with their draft selections. If their scouts haven't had an opportunity to work a player out, or if a player skipped out on a workout because they felt they'd be drafted high, then it can cause a player to free fall. Teams are more likely to draft someone they've actually seen up close and talked with.
If the 76ers do indeed stay at 12...I don't mind Julian Wright, but I'm with CK. Although I don't follow college basketball Al Thornton seems more NBA ready to me. I'm a person who doesn't like drafting on potential, in my opinion Al has already proven what he is capable of as a ball player, which is score. Either way, I hope the 76ers move into the top 10. Also, just a heads up at the #10 pick.... <div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">which in this case is Gerald Green.</div>
Peep this, I got to the Madison Square Garden at around 9:30 am and there was already a BIGASS line, but I'm telling you, there was probably only 1000-1500 in line then. There was even dumbasses who slept overnight to get early in line. So me and my fatass cousin wait there for an hour and half and when it hit 11:00, the line didn't move until like 13 minutes later, but it moved a little and kept doing that for about 30 more minutes. From there, we were about 100 people away from the box office when they announce "Sold Out". I was never so pissed in my life. I don't even want to bother to watch the draft knowing that I should be there, sitting up at some nosebleed seat (They assign seats this year, unlike the free seating they had all other years).
I just edited to mock to reflect the Orlando-Houston trade. Here's a summary of the changes: - Bobby Brown goes from undrafted to #54. - Demetris Nichols falls from #54 to the Pistons at #57. - Stephane Lasme falls from #57 to being undrafted.
<div class="quote_poster">Voodoo Child Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Jeff Green's still in their range. In fact, most would argue that Wright's the smarter pick. Green's just more ready to contribute and has a few fans in the lottery. Come to think of it, some of the mocks out there either have Wright going ahead of Brewer too (like nbadraft.net). Why you don't think he's in that class is beyond me. Either way, how is Thornton a better pick than Wright? They play the exact same position. If anything, Wright will be more productive offensively on the next level. Really, comparing their ball handling skills are laughable. Thornton may have been a better scorer collegiately, but the pro's are a whole nother story.</div> Philly doesn't need another guy that can handle the ball and create for others. It's nice to have as many people as you can that can distribute, but we really need a go-to guy and that would be Thornton. Personally, I like Wright's game better. Love his versatility, however for this team we need a scorer. There's some questions out there whether Julian Wright can actually shoot the rock. Also, up until recently, a lot of mock draft sites had Julian Wright as low as the 16 slot to the Wizards. Brewer on the other hand was always considered going to the Celtics or the Bobcats. There's no sense arguing who's the better prospect, this is a mock draft, Philly needs to fill their scoring need with Thornton. It's unreasonable to think that Philly will pass on somebody that has had so much success going up against some of the strongest competition in college basketball, especially since they need somebody that can consistently put the ball in the hoop (can't stress that enough). We'll find out in an hour or two.
