Official JustBBall.Com 2006 Mock Draft

Voodoo Child · Apr 22, 2006

By: Shapecity and Voodoo Child

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We've resumed our coverage of the NBA draft now that the college basketball season is officially over. The order of the teams in our mock draft is based on their standings at the end of the NCAA championship game, and team needs are taken into consideration. The mock draft was also created after the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament was concluded, giving us a better read on some of the draft's top second round prospects.

Voodoo Child · Apr 22, 2006

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2006 JBB Mock Draft
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Round 1 (16-30)

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8085/zz59kr.jpg[/imgl]#16 Indiana Pacers - Rajon Rondo
PG, 6-1, 171 lbs., Kentucky
PPG: 11.2, RPG: 6.1, APG: 4.9
Rondo's offensive game isn't all there yet, but he's one of the best defenders in the draft, with the potential to be one of the top defensive point guards in the entire league. For someone who stands are just 6-1, Rondo has freakishly long arms and hands which, along with his unmatched quickness, results in an insane amount of steals. (In just his freshman season, Rondo averaged 2.6 spg, breaking the school's all-time single season record for steals per game.) Rondo's numbers may have declined dramatically in SEC play, but in many cases, so did his playing time, as well as his relationship with head coach Tubby Smith, so that explains his statistical woes. Given that the Pacers are in need of defensive help at the point guard position, Rondo should fit right in.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/3769/jones4so.jpg[/imgl]#17 New Orleans Hornets (via Mil) - Bobby Jones
SF/SG, 6-7, 215 lbs., Washington
PPG: 10.4, RPG: 4.9, SPG: 1.2
This may seem ridiculously high for Bobby Jones, and in a way, we agree with that. However, Jones is arguably the best swingman in the draft defensively, and that just happens to be the Hornet's biggest need. At 6-7, he's got the size to play either small forward or shooting guard at the next level, and he plays with a team-first mentality, never forcing shots. After the season ended, there were some questions about his offensive abilities, mainly his ball handling, but he answered those questions with an impressive offensive display in his two games at Portsmouth. At this point in the draft, team's aren't necessarily going to be looking for diamonds in the rough. It's more likely that they'll be looking for role players who can help satisfy a team need, so maybe Bobby Jones isn't so ridiculous of a pick here afterall.


[imgl]http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/3844/sim3tp.jpg[/imgl]#18 Washington Wizards - Cedric Simmons
C/PF, 6-9, 233 lbs., North Carolina State
PPG: 11.8, RPG: 6.3, BPG: 2.5
The only real holes in the Wizard's roster are in the froncourt, and there is most noticably a lack of defense, which makes Cedric Simmons not only a good pick as the best player left on the board but also as a great fit for the team. In just two years and limited playing time at North Carolina State, Simmons was able to block over 115 shots, including 20 blocks in three games against three of the NCAA's best offensive big men: Shelden Williams, Craig Smith, and Greg Brunner. With that said, he's still very "raw" and underdeveloped on the offensive end of the floor, but the Wizards don't need the complete package right now and can wait for his offensive game.


[imgl]http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/4809/mo5kn.jpg[/imgl]#19 Phoenix Suns (via LAL) - Mouhamed Saer Sene
C/PF, 7-0, 229 lbs. Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium)
MPG: 10.3, PPG: 3.1, RPG: 4.2
With the status of Amare Stoudamire's recovery from surgery up in the air and with both Brian Grant and Kurt Thomas reaching their mid 30's, the Suns need depth on the interior. After a breakout performance at the Nike Hoops Summit in which he blocked nine shots, a lot of scouts would consider Sene the best interior player left on the board, and his length and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the Suns' up-tempo style of play. With his incredibly lengthy frame, Sene could develop into a great NBA center, but the downside to drafting him is that he's not ready for the NBA yet. However, the Suns are in a position where they can afford to wait and develop a prospect like Sene's game.

[imgl]http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/1112/agray6oe.jpg[/imgl]#20 Sacramento Kings - Aaron Gray
C, 7-0, 270 lbs., Pittsburgh
PPG: 13.9, RPG: 10.5, BPG: 1.5
The Kings are set at just about every position but could use a little depth and youth in the frontcourt after losing Darius Songaila last summer. Gray may not be "athletic" persay, but he's an amazingly hard worker, who in one summer shed 25 pounds, and that's the type of player that Geoff Petrie has a tendancy to draft. The Kings could also use some help on the glass, as they're currently only 19th in the league in team rebounds per game with 40.5, and Gray is the best rebounder left on the board, finishing 9th overall in the NCAA in rebounds this season. He's also a particularly efficient offensive rebounder, an area in which the Kings rank as one of the six worst teams in the league.

[imgl]http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/8510/tuck2ej.jpg[/imgl]#21 New York Knicks (via Den) - P.J. Tucker
PF/SF, 6-5, 225 lbs., Texas
PPG: 16.1, RPG: 9.5, APG: 2.9
Give Tucker three inches, and you're looking at a surefire lottery pick, but the fact that he currently stands at only 6-5 and 225 lbs. has raised concerns about what position he'll play in the NBA. He's probably too short to play power forward, yet his potential as a small forward is questionable because he doesn't have much of a perimeter game to speak of, aside from a reliable midrange jumper. His intense, rough, and physical style of play has drawn comparisons to Ron Artest though, and it would be just what the Knicks are looking for. He'll give them the heart and defensive intensity they're sorely lacking.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/5927/zz212zj.jpg[/imgl]#22 Memphis Grizzlies - Mardy Collins
SG/PG, 6-6, 205 lbs., Temple
PPG: 16.8, RPG: 4.7, APG: 4.0
Without a doubt, the Grizzlies' biggest weakness this season has been their point guard play. Both Chucky Atkins and Bobby Jackson's shoot-first style of play have been hurting the Grizzlies all season long, and with Atkins a free agent this offseason and Jackson turning 34 next season, neither player seems to fit into the team's long-term plans. Conveniently, the best player left on the board is Mardy Collins, a 6-6 point guard who has anything but a shoot-first mentality. Collins' understanding of the game is excellent. He's very disciplined on the offensive end, knowing how to dictate the tempo and get his teammates involved, and that's exactly the type of player the Grizzlies are missing right now.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/6457/zz111vj.jpg[/imgl]#23 New Jersey Nets (via LAC) - Paul Davis
C/PF, 6-11, 270 lbs., Michigan State
PPG: 17.5, RPG: 9.1, FT: 87%
With probably the best backcourt in the NBA, it's almost a foregone conclusion that the Nets will look to add size with their late first round picks. Davis may not fit in with the team in terms of athleticism, but with the way he improved over last season, he'd be too hard to pass up this late in the draft and would still add depth and scoring to their froncourt; and while his athleticism, or lack thereof, is considered his biggest weakness, he's not the 'great white stiff' many portray him to be. He's actually very agile for a big man his size. He'll also be dangerous on the next level because of his offensive versatility. Last season he developed a reliable midrange game, and he improved his freethrow shooting to near perfection, shooting over 90% at times during the season. Any big man who can shoot that well from the line will be a very valuable asset on the next level, regardless of what team drafts him.

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/1883/zz129hj.jpg[/imgl]#24 Cleveland Cavaliers - Maurice Ager
SG, 6-5, 202 lbs., Michigan State
PPG: 19.3, RPG: 4.1, APG: 2.5
With Eric Snow turning 34 at the end of next season, the Cavaliers could really use some help at the point, but with both Rajon Rondo and Mardy Collins off the board at #24, the best point guards available (Brown, Diaz, and Douby) are all two guards trapped in a point's body, so they probably aren't what the Cavaliers are looking for as a replacement for Snow. Therefore, it's likely that the Cav's take the best player available, Maurice Ager. While Ager could go as high as the late lottery with a good showing in workouts, it's easy to see him slipping to the late first because he's somewhat one-dimensional on offense. He's one of the most prolific scorers in the draft and also one of the most athletic, but at times it seems like he doesn't know how to use that athleticism towards his advantage on offense, not moving without the ball and winding up in situations where he's only effective if he's taking 15-20 shots a game. Still, at this point in the draft, an athlete who can score like Ager would be hard to pass on, especially for a team that's owned by Michigan State booster Dan Gilbert.


[imgl]http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/3879/mil9rj.jpg[/imgl]#25 New Jersey Nets - Paul Millsap
PF/SF, 6-8, 245 lbs., Louisiana Tech
PPG: 19.6, RPG: 13.3, BPG: 2.3
As the only player in NCAA history to lead the nation in rebounding three seasons in a row, Millsap is exactly what New Jersey's looking for in terms of a post presence, and unlike Paul Davis, the Net's first pick in the draft, Millsap can get down the floor in a hurry and is an explosive leaper, so he'll fit in well on the break with Kidd, Carter, and Jefferson. There are concerns about Millsap's size, standing at roughly 6-8, because he doesn't really have any of the necessary skills to play on the wing. This could very well be a problem for him on the offensive end of the floor, but he positions himself so well under the glass, that he probably won't struggle for rebounds in the NBA just because of his size, and that's what the Nets need him for.

[imgl]http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/1829/nem7ep.jpg[/imgl]#26 Los Angeles Lakers (via Miami) - Nemanja Aleksandrov

PF/SF, 6-11, 220 lbs., Serbia
Stats: Not Available
At one time Nemanja Aleksandrov was considered the top prospect in Europe and nicknamed the "European LeBron." Injuries have caused his stock to slip, but the Lakers can afford to gamble on a homerun with this pick. After Vlade Divac retired, he became the International talent scout for the team. He's worked very closely with Nemanja and could have enough influence to persuade the Lakers drafting him and stashing him overseas to play with his Serbian team. Nemanja has the triple threat skills PJax looks for in players, and has great court vision. He will need to definitely bulk up and work on his strength to be effective in the NBA. The Lakers plan on addressing their need for a guard with the MLE this summer, so drafting a high risk, high reward player makes a lot of sense at #26.

[imgl]http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/3064/rob7db.jpg[/imgl]#27 Phoenix Suns - Richard Roby
SG, 6-6, 195 lbs., Colorado
PPG: 17.0, RPG: 5.5, APG: 2.5
With the Suns locking up their big man with the first of their two first round picks, they'll likely look for either the best player on the board or another player who can hit the long range jumper with ease. Either way, it looks like Richard Roby's there man. He's quick and athletic enough to keep up in their up-tempo offense, and he's got possibly the purest jumper in the draft outside of J.J. Redick, so he won't be out of place on the league's leading three point shooting team (in 3FGA, 3FGM, and 3FG%). He could wind up being everything they lost from trading Richardson.

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8200/zz193zd.jpg[/imgl]#28 Dallas Mavericks - Nick Fazekas
PF, 6-11, 235 lbs., Nevada
PPG: 21.8, RPG: 10.4, APG: 2.1
The Mavericks don't have any gaping holes in their roster, and their 74% winning percentage reflects that. However, they could still benefit from another lowpost scoring threat. As a 6-11 power forward who can consistently hit three pointers from NBA range, Fazekas is comparable to Dirk Nowitzki in many ways, so it's not hard to see him as Nowitzki's backup on the next level. He's really skinny for an NBA power forward, and he's not the most athletic prospect on the board by any stretch of the imagination, but he's one of the most fundamentally sound big men in the draft, and his size and range make him a matchup problem for the other team.

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/4791/zz292ic.jpg[/imgl]#29 New York Knicks (via SA) - Josh Boone
C/PF, 6-10, 237 lbs., Connecticut
PPG: 10.3, RPG: 7.0, BPG: 2.0
The Knicks could really use all the help they can get, but one of their most noticable weaknesses at this point is their interior defense, or lackthereof. Josh Boone may have been one of the most overrated players in the nation all season long, and he's not really even a factor on offense, but despite all his weaknesses, he's a great fit for the Knicks because of his defense, which some rate as the best in all of college ball. He has the ability to take the other team's big guy completely out of the game (ex: holding Glen Davis to 12 points, Sean May to 8, Shelden Williams to 4, etc.), and he never gets outhustled on the glass. Boone has also earned a reputation as a workaholic, which should make him one of Larry Brown's favorites right off the bat. 

[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/2742/smith6ep.jpg[/imgl]#30 Portland Trailblazers (via Det) - Craig Smith
PF, 6-7, 250 lbs., Boston College
PPG: 17.6, RPG: 9.4, APG: 3.0
After taking Adam Morrison with the first overall pick, the Trailblazers are loaded in the backcourt with young, promising talent like Webster, Miles, Khryapa, Outlaw, Telfair, Blake, Dixon, and Morrison himself. They've also had disciplinary problems with big man Zach Randolph and could be looking to move him during the offseason. With those two things in mind, a power forward would probably be the best fit for the Blazers, and Smith is the best one on the board. Offensively, Smith should be a very big help for the Blazers. He's got a great feel for the game, and it shows through his footwork and his positioning downlow. He's undersized, but he's got the weight to compensate, and he knows how to use it towards his advantage. The one area that's still a big unknown for Smith because of his size is his defense, where he's the ultimate tweener: too slow to guard most wings and too small to handle most bigs. Regardless, the next best power forward options on the board (Killingsworth, Hicks, etc.) are undersized as well, so the Blazers don't have much room to be picky.


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Round 1 (1-15)

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/6875/zz29pz.jpg[/imgl]#1 Portland Trailblazers - Adam Morrison
SF/SG, 6-8, 205 lbs., Gonzaga
PPG: 28.1, RPG: 5.5, APG: 1.8
For the second straight year, the Blazers go with a local product and draft Washington native, Adam Morrison. The Blazers franchise has a lot of issues, and one way to bring some popularity back to the franchise is grooming Morrison to be the face of their franchise. Morrison' Mustache night will be more populary than Brian Grant's dreadlock night up in Portland. Morrison is a gamer and can score from anywhere on the court. With the problems Portland has with putting ball in the basket, Adam Morrison will step right in and boost the scoring average of the Blazers next season. Morrison played a nice inside-outside game working with Turiaf and Batista at Gonzaga, he should form a nice 1-2 punch with Z-Bo for years to come. 

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/4447/zz30vm.jpg[/imgl]#2 Charlotte Bobcats - Rudy Gay
SF, 6-9, 220 lbs., Connecticut
PPG: 15.2, RPG: 6.4, APG: 2.1
The Charlotte Bobcats go with another UConn Huskie by selecting Rudy Gay as the #2 overall pick. There have been question marks surrounding Gay's leadership ability, but his upside is too, good for this Bobcats team to overlook. Besides, the Bobcats have plenty of leadership with Raymond Felton, Brevin Knight, and Emeka Okafor. With Rudy Gay on board, the Bobcats improve defensively on the perimeter and add more athleticism alongside Gerald Wallace. A lot of the criticism Rudy Gay has taken this season, where similar to what Charlie Villanueva heard in his last year at UConn. Scouts questioned whether these two had the desire to live up to their potential. This year Villanueva is proving all his critics wrong with his impressive rookie campaign, the same will likely be said about Rudy Gay next year. The Bobcats have the right atmosphere in their locker room and have been consistent with the type of players they draft. They've gone after seasoned college players who come from winning programs...Emeka Okafor, Bernard Robinson, Raymond Felton, and Sean May.

[imgl]http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/3739/untitled19ms.gif[/imgl]#3 Chicago Bulls (via NY) - Lamarcus Aldridge
C/PF, 6-10, 237 lbs., Texas
PPG: 15.0, RPG: 9.2, BPG: 2.0
The Bulls lack a scorer in the post, and Lamarcus Aldridge steps right in to fill the void ... thank you Isiah Thomas. Aldridge already has the ability to score with either hand and is capable of stepping out and hitting the 16 footer. A lot of scouts predict he'll be a better pro because Aldridge hasn't really been challenged at the college level. The game has come easy for him and he ends up drifting and not focusing. Scott Skiles is the perfect coach for this type of attitude because Skiles is never satisfied and constantly come up with new challenges to keep Aldridge focused on the court.

[imgl]http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/4045/thomas9rh.jpg[/imgl]#4 Atlanta Hawks - Tyrus Thomas
PF, 6-9, 215 lbs., Louisiana State
PPG: 12.3, RPG: 9.2, APG: 1.3
The young core of the Hawks is built on speed and athleticism. Tyrus Thomas has both, and despite the need for a starting PG, the Hawks go with the BAP at #4. Not even on the radar coming into this year, no player has skyrocketed up mock drafts faster than Tyrus. There's still a strong possibility he becomes the #1 overall player taken now that he's officially declared for the draft. Tyrus had a strong showing in the March Madness Tournament, and scouts are impressed with his defense first approach to the game. The Hawks can use depth in their frontcourt rotation and adding Thomas helps lesson the blow of losing Al Harrington this summer. 

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/883/zz49be.jpg[/imgl]#5 - Toronto Raptors - Andrea Bargnani
PF/SF, 6-11, 240 lbs., Benetton Treviso (Italy)
Stats Not Available
When all is said and done, Bargnani could easily be the best player from the 2006 draft class. Every year there seems to be a Dirk Nowitzki comparison coming out of Europe, but none have panned out. However, Bargnani is the closest to draw an equal comparison to Dirk. He has the perimeter stroke from long range, and mid range, plus he's added some nice moves to the basket off the dribble. Bryan Coangelo is very knowledgable about International talent, and he wouldn't hesitate to add Bargnani to this team. With Bosh and Villanueva, the forward spot is crowded, but these three forwards have the ability to play multiple positions. Bargnani would help stretch a defense and create better spacing on the court for Bosh in the post.

It would be fitting for Bargnani to be selected by Toronto, since Bargnani showed first hand what he can do when his team exhibitioned the Raptors, and Bargnani scored on Bosh numerous times. 

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/914/zz131iy.jpg[/imgl]#6 Golden State Warriors - Rodney Carney
SF, 6-7, 205 lbs., Memphis
PPG: 17.2, RPG: 4.3, APG: 1.3
The Warriors are still in search for a post up scorer, but this year's draft doesn't offer the answer to their needs. At #6 the Warriors go with BAP, and select Rodney Carney. The Warriors have some concerns about being able to keep Mikael Pietrus and Carney gives them insurance incase his salary demands are too, high. Having another athletic wing player fits into the style the Warriors like to play. Carney can fill the lanes on breaks and has NBA quality finishing moves. His size and athleticism also gives the Warriors some options on defense, when Jason Richardson is struggling against taller guards.

[imgl]http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/4324/mcro3kq.jpg[/imgl]#7 Minnesota TWolves - Josh McRoberts
PF/C, 6-10, 230 lbs., Duke
PPG: 8.7, RPG: 5.2, BPG: 1.3
The TWolves made a mistake last year by not selecting the BAP, Danny Granger. Hopefully, they've learned from their mistake and don't pass up on Josh McRoberts at #7. He won't be able to contribute next season, but McRoberts has TUP (tremendous upside potential) and could be a player this team can build around after the KG-Era ends in 'Sota. Josh McRoberts has the ability to score with either hand and is a strong finisher. He had an impressive freshmen campaign at Duke, and could bolt to take advantage of his draft stock. If he waits a year, he could get lost in next year's crop of big men who could declare, Noah, Oden, Hansborough, and Hibbert. If the TWolves don't trade KG this summer, McRoberts will have the ideal mentor to maximize his skill and versatility at PF.

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/4407/zz249jy.jpg[/imgl]#8 Boston Celtics - Randy Foye
PG/SG, 6-4, 205 lbs., Villanova
PPG: 20.5, RPG: 5.8, APG: 3.0
Delonte West has a tight grip on the starting PG job in Boston, but the Celtics could use a solid player as the backup. Randy Foye would give them a consistent player coming off the bench. This year the Celtics have suffered with their lack of depth at PG. Dan Dickau, Orienne Green, and Marcus Banks have all tried and failed to become the ideal PG in Ainge and Doc's vision for this team. With Foye they get a big time player, from a big time school, who had a dominating performance in the March Madness tourney.

[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/6052/roy3sd.jpg[/imgl]#9 Orlando Magic - Brandon Roy
SG/SF, 6-6, 210 lbs., Washington
PPG: 20.2, RPG: 5.6, APG: 4.1
This is a match made in heaven for the Magic and Roy. The All-American brings his smooth game to a young, up and coming Orlando team and can step right in to replace Deshawn Stevenson (if he opts out) or Grant Hill (if he retires) in the starting lineup. Brandon Roy is NBA ready and will contribute on both ends of the court for this team. He will be able to do the things Grant Hill was meant to do in Orlando. Play an all around game, and create offense by taking players off the dribble. He's going to fit right in with this talented, unselfish and poised group of players in Orlando.

[imgl]http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/4706/shel9ty.jpg[/imgl]#10 Houston Rockets - Shelden Williams
PF, 6-9, 250 lbs., Duke
PPG: 18.8, RPG: 10.7, BPG: 3.8
The Rockets had disappointing results from Stromile Swift this past season. He was signed to be the defensive presence in the paint, blocking shots and cleaning the glass. With Yao drawing most of the attention from other teams, the Rockets expected Swift to thrive in Houston. Instead, they underestimated Swift's complacency. The Rockets could go with a guard here, but drafting Shelden Williams gives them the enforcer they need to play alongside Yao. With Mutombo set to retire, the "Landlord" can step in and be the defensive anchor in the paint for Houston. Shelden will do all the dirty work, Swift is incapable of and finishes strong around the rim. He is the prototypical JVG type player.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8342/zz61vj.jpg[/imgl]#11 Seattle Supersonics - Ronnie Brewer
SG/SF, 6-7, 217 lbs., Arkansas
PPG: 18.4, RPG: 4.8, APG: 3.2
The Supersonics get great value with Brewer at #11. The team has a lot of projects in the front court and with Watson and Ridnour, the team is set in the backcourt. The Sonics don't have much depth behind Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. Adding Brewer gives them a player who can back up either player and a solid perimeter defender. If Brewer can play well and contribute right away, it gives the team better leverage when Shard opts out of his current deal. The Sonics won't be forced in a position to overpay for Shard, and can explore their sign and trade options with him instead.

[imgl]http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/9875/mwill2hq.jpg[/imgl]#12 Philadelphia 76ers - Marcus Williams
PG, 6-3, 205 lbs., Conneticut
PPG: 12.3, RPG: 3.9, APG: 8.6
After choking down the stretch and missing the playoffs, the 76ers have some tough decisions to make. Do they trade Iverson? Can they trade Webber? Do they try one last time to win it all with the Iverson/Webber duo? The uncertainty in Philly, makes this a tough pick to predict, but regardless of the direction Philly takes Marcus Williams could be an option. Iverson could use another player maker on the floor with him, and someone to sprint down the court when Iverson is leading the break. Marcus "Laptop" Williams has a lot of talent on offense and could be the 2nd scoring option this team desperately lacks. He would be an immediate upgrade in the backcourt for Philly.

[imgl]http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/6606/brad3ga.jpg[/imgl]#13 New Orleans Hornets - Patrick O'Bryant
C, 7-0, 250 lbs., Bradley
PPG: 13.4, RPG: 8.3, BPG: 2.9
The Hornets have to stockpile some frontcourt players in the draft to develop alongside Chris Paul. With the 13th pick, Patrick O'Bryant is a great start because he's a legit 7 footer and has a huge frame. PJ Brown, Mark Jackson, and Aaron Williams aren't getting any younger, but they can be great teachers in the meantime for O'Bryant. Byron Scott's offense relies on his big men setting picks, rebounding and doing the dirty work. O'Bryant will be capable of doing all those things for the Hornets.

[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/3701/zz101sj.jpg[/imgl]#14 Utah Jazz - J.J. Redick
SG, 6-4, 190 lbs., Duke
PPG: 26.8, RPG: 2.6, APG: 2.0
The Jazz are in desperate need of perimeter shooting and there isn't anyone better at long range gunning than Mr. Redick baby! He's the perfect player for Sloan's offense because the Jazz run a lot of pick and roll, and set back door picks. J.J. Redick can thrive in Utah because he can run his man into double picks and free up the space he needs to get his shot off. Utah doesn't really have that one player who can take over on offense, but with Redick they will.

Redick has the competitive spirit Sloan looks for in his players. Redick really struggled against an athletic defender when Duke faced LSU, but in the NBA he's not going to see anything close to the defensive attention he saw in college. Especially not on Utah, because of all the talent the team has when the starting 5 is healthy. Redick can play off the double teams Boozer draws in the post, or slide along the baseline when AK47 makes a move to the basket for the drive and kick. I can see Redick having the same role Jeff Hornacek played in the early and mid 90
s for Sloan's Jazz team.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8848/zz76lg.jpg[/imgl]#15 Chicago Bulls - Tiago Splitter
C/PF, 7-0, 240 lbs., TAU Vitoria (Spain)
MPG: 22.0, PPG: 9.9, RPG: 4.8
Almost needless to say, the Bulls lucked out by receiving the Knick's top pick this season with no protections, and that should effect the way Bulls draft with their mid-first round pick, giving them the room to take a risk on a player like Tiago Splitter. Splitter himself is definitely not a risk, in fact, some will tell you that he's talented enough to be a top five pick, but most teams will probably be scared out of drafting him by an expensive buyout clause in his contract which runs until 2008. With Aldridge, the Bulls could keep Splitter in Europe for a while though and not loose much ground in the process. When it's all said and done, a froncourt of Splitter, Aldridge, and Chandler could be one of the best in the league.

Voodoo Child · Apr 22, 2006

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2006 JBB Mock Draft
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Round 2 (46-60)

[imgl]http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/6824/mrc9nm.jpg[/imgl]#46 Indiana Pacers - Marcus Vinicius
SF, 6-9, 194 lbs., Brazil
After satisfying their need for a backup point guard in the first round, the Pacers would likely look for the best player available here, particularly on the wing, because Stojakovic is likely to opt out of his contract this summer and become a free agent. Vinicius would probably be the best player available by virtue of his potential, and at 6-9, he's got great size for an NBA wing and a great looking three pointer too. With Danny Granger emerging as a potential starter next season and Stojakovic possibly leaving as a free agent, it's not unlikely that Vinicius could wind up providing a much needed offensive spark for the Pacers off the bench next season.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/3720/zz288vm.jpg[/imgl]#47 Milwaukee Bucks (via Mil) - Guillermo Diaz
PG/SG, 6-2, 190 lbs., Miami
Guillermo Diaz is a jaw-dropping physical specimen and probably the most impressive athlete in the draft, with a rumored 50-inch vertical leap. However, Diaz's one physical shortcoming is his lack of height, which at only 6-2 makes him undersized to play his natural position of shooting guard on the next level and could easily cause him to slip this late to the Bucks. They'd likely take a chance on Diaz because they're set in the froncourt and at the point but could use a little added depth on the wing, and while Diaz may appear to be too small to be an effective shooting guard on paper, he's great at creating space for himself off the dribble, coming off of screens, and beating his defender off the dribble with his quickness, so odds are he won't give up too much ground offensively, just on the defensive end.

[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/1900/batista2mt.jpg[/imgl]#48 Utah Jazz - J.P. Batista
C/PF, 6-9, 270 lbs., Gonzaga
The biggest weakness of the Jazz would probably be their perimeter shooting, but after drafting J.J. Redick and Rudy Fernandez, they've taken care of that need, so they'll look to their next biggest need, strength and rebounding in the post, which will become even greater of a need this summer when they lose Greg Ostertag and Jarron Collins to free agency. To fill that need, J.P. Batista or Erick Hicks would probably be good choices here, but we'll give the edge to J.P. Batista because of a somewhat disappointing Portsmouth Invitational Tournament showing by Hicks, as well as the fact that Batista appears to be about two inches taller.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/9056/brown2yw.jpg[/imgl]#49 Los Angeles Lakers - Denham Brown
SG, 6-5, 220 lbs. Conneticut
The Lakers will go conservative with their second round pick and Denham Brown is safe pick at #49. He's well rounded and gives the Lakers another athletic scorer off the bench to backup Kobe Bryant. Playing with all the talent at UConn, Brown often went under the radar for most of the season. He's not a flashy player, but when you check the boxscore he always gets the job done. Denham Brown plays with a lot of confidence and comes up big in the clutch. He has the right tools for the Laker coaching staff to mold Denham Brown into an effective player in the NBA. Confidence, great work ethic, very coachable, and a good decision maker with the basketball.


[imgl]http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/4145/dd5lj.jpg[/imgl]#50 Sacramento Kings - Vladimir Veremeenko
SF/PF, 6-10, 235 lbs., Belarus
Vermeenko's a bit of a tweener. He's got a decent three point shot, but he can't handle the ball; he's also got decent NBA size (6-10, 235 lbs.) but has trouble guarding bigger players. Ultimately, the Kings aren't in need of any immediate help that a pick this late in the second round could offer them, so it's likely that they keep a roster spot open for a more experienced veteran and keep Vermeenko in Europe for a while to bulk up.


[imgl]http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/4889/ras9ct.jpg[/imgl]#51 Denver Nuggets - Rashad Anderson
SG/SF, 6-5, 210 lbs., Conneticut
The Nuggets have a gaping hole in their backcourt, where they start the aging Ruben Patterson and bring soon-to-be free agent Demarr Johnson off the bench. Their weakness on the perimeter is reflected through the fact that they're the worst three point shooting team in the NBA, and this is an area in which Rashad Anderson excels, rivaling the likes of J.J. Redick and Steve Novak from long range. Outside of his shot, Anderson's a weak ball handler, a poor defender, and just doesn't have that great of a feel for the game, but the Nuggets are in so great of a need for shooters like Anderson that they'd likely pick him despite all of his other shortcomings.


[imgl]http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/4715/nov9gy.jpg[/imgl]#52 Seattle Supersonics - Steve Novak
SF/PF, 6-10, 220 lbs., Marquette
Despite a less-than-impressive performance at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, Novak is still what most teams are looking for in the second round. He's a hard-working, fundamentally sound player with height and a jumper that rivals J.J. Redick's. While Novak may never see extended playing time on the NBA level because of the holes in his defensive game and his lack of quickness or athleticism on the offensive end, he should fit in nicely with the Sonics, who have developed a reputation as one of the best shooting teams in the NBA.


[imgl]http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/402/aug9ts.jpg[/imgl]#53 Los Angeles Clippers - James Augustine
C/PF, 6-10, 235 lbs., Illinois
With the Clippers losing Vladimir Radmanovic, Vin Baker, and Boniface NDong to free agency this summer, they're going to need to restock in the frontcourt, and an argument could be made for Augustine as the best big man available this late in the draft. He can be passive at times, but he's otherwise one of the most fundamentally sound players in the game and plays with a lot of intensity in the paint.

[imgl]http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/9470/ll0qe.jpg[/imgl]#54 Cleveland Cavaliers - C.J. Watson
PG, 6-2, 165 lbs., Tennessee

After taking Maurice Ager in the first round, the Cavaliers would more than likely look for point guard help with their late second round pick, and C.J. Watson's probably the best one left on the board. Offensively, he's one of the best three point shooters in the game, and defensively, he's one of the better guards in the draft, really approaching it relentlessly and never taking a posession off. The only major weakness that Watson could improve upon is his playmaking ability. Often considered a two-guard in a point's body, Watson's struggled to get his teammates involved offensively at times and tends to play with a shoot-first mentality. However, he's not out of control by any stretch of the imagination; in fact, he's actually a very efficient ball handler. Overall, the Cavaliers could use him because they're towards the bottom of the league in forced turnovers per game and three point percentage, two areas in which Watson excels, and he'll also provide them with some much needed depth at the point.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/5030/white8bn.jpg[/imgl]#55 New Jersey Nets - James White
SG/SF, 6-7, 190 lbs., Cincinnati
Once considered a future top three pick (possibly even #1), James White has frustrated scout after scout over the years with his inability to take advantage of his athletic gifts. There's no doubt that he ranks with or above players like Hassan Adams, Maurice Ager, and Rudy Gay in terms of athleticism, but he's too passive with that ability, rarely getting points by driving to the basket, which is a problem because his jumper is one of the weakest areas of his game. He'd fit in well with the Nets though because of their uptempo style of play; his quickness and athleticism really isn't that far behind Carter and Jefferson's.


[imgl]http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/4333/hort6qm.jpg[/imgl]#56 Toronto Raptors - Daniel Horton

PG, 6-3, 205 lbs., Michigan
It's doubtful that there is another player in the draft who has overcome more challenges in his life than Daniel Horton. Four years ago, he entered the University of Michigan with the world in the palm of his hand. He was a McDonald's All-American and finished his freshman year being touted as the best point guard in the nation by many. Had he declared for the draft, he would have likely been a lottery pick. However, the next few seasons were full of problems with injuries, arrests, suspensions, and the death of his son, Cameron. However, through all his suffering, Horton greatly matured, both as a man and as a basketball player. He's improved his decision making, his defense, and has limited his turnovers; three things scouts doubted he could do before the season. If he just plays with more of a pass-first mentality, he's got the potential to be a starter on the next level and would be a steal for the Raptors this low, both as someone who can give them some depth at the point guard spot and as the best player left on the draft board.


[imgl]http://img414.imageshack.us/img414/2563/yemi2ps.jpg[/imgl]#57 Minnesota Timberwolves - Yemi Nicholson
C, 6-11, 260 lbs., Denver
Nicholson's not the most experienced or refined player in the draft by any stretch of the imagination, but despite his rawness, he'll probably be able to make an immediate impact on the next level, because of his combination of height, length, agility, and shotblocking ability. He'll be an especially good fit for the Timberwolves, whose frontcourt, outside of Garnett, is just about as weak as they come. It'll be important that he measures in at 6-11 though, or at least close to it, because after he showed up at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament looking shorter than expected, there have been rumors flying around about his actual height being much shorter than his listed one.


[imgl]http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/9686/ro6vt.jpg[/imgl]#58 Dallas Mavericks - Ricky Woods
SF, 6-6, 210 lbs., S.E. Louisiana
Woods, while probably the most unknown player in our mock, posted some of the most impressive statistics in all of college ball last season (17.8 ppg, 10.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.0 spg), but that went largely unnoticed because Woods was stuck on the Southland's Southeastern Louisiana Tigers, a team that gets about as much publicity as your typical junior college or DII club. The two things holding him back from being a high pick are his jumper and his size. At 6-6, he's one of the most athletic players in the draft and also one of the greatest rebounders, but he has almost no jumpshot whatsoever and would probably struggle on the interior against bigger defenders. If he just developed a reliable jumper though, Woods could be a valuable contributer in the league one day. The Mavericks, needing some toughness on the interior, might gamble on him. As they've shown in the past with players like Oakland's Rawle Marshall, they're not shy about signing mid-major talent.

[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/1779/dean8rw.jpg[/imgl]#59 San Antonio Spurs - Taquan Dean
SG, 6-3, 185 lbs., Louisville
For a team with no immediate needs that a #59 pick could satisfy, it's likely the Spurs will take a player like Dean here; someone who'll be a contributer even if he doesn't get the playing time, because of the work ethic and energy that he'll bring to the team. Aside from his work ethic, Dean's best attributes, his lockdown defense and his seemingly unlimited range, are the two things that have come to be expected of the Spurs, who are currently third in the league in opponent's field goal percentage yet also second in the league in three point percentage.



[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/5999/sanders6xd.jpg[/imgl]#60 Detroit Pistons (via Det) - Julian Sensley
SF, 6-9, 235 lbs., Hawaii
A one-time McDonalds All-American and projected top five pick, Sensley's too talented to be passed up here. He's been criticized for his lack of a work ethic, but you can't really criticize too much about his actual talent. He's great size for an NBA small forward (6-9, 235 lbs.) and has a very well-rounded game (the only Hawaii player ranking in the school's top 10 in all-time points, rebounds, and assists). Having drive and intensity is important, especially for second round players who'll most likely never see the light of day except in practice, but taking the gamble on Sensley could wind up being one of the biggest steals in draft history. Being on what many consider to be the NBA's hardest working teams could be the change of scenery he's needed all along.


[/div]
Round 2 (31-45)

[imgl]http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/2600/hil6af.jpg[/imgl]#31 Portland Trailblazers - Hilton Armstrong
PF/C, 6-11, 235 lbs., Conneticut
Theo Ratliff isn't getting any younger and the Blazers will probably shop Zach Randolph because of his attitude problem. The team also stands to lose Joel Pryzbilla and his shot blocking presence on the floor. Hilton Armstrong could step in and become the weakside shot bldocker for the Blazers and his ability to run and finish on the break fits in with Portland's style.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/5044/adams0nv.jpg[/imgl]#32 Los Angeles Clippers - Hassan Adams
SF, 6-4, 201 lbs., Arizona
The Clippers are always on the look out for athletic players in the draft. Hassan Adams could be a second round steal for the Clippers, especially if he can develop a jumpshot and transition over to SG. The Clippers don't have many needs, so they will stockpile talent and Hassan is the BAP at #32.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/3884/zz255ah.jpg[/imgl]#33 Houston (via NY) - Dee Brown
PG, 6-0, 180 lbs., Illinois
The Rockets have an obvious need in the backcourt. Dee Brown is the speed guard this team needs to defend Steve Nash, Tony Parker, Chris Paul etc. The outside touch Dee Brown has will also keep his defender honest and help create space for Yao to work in the paint. He will come in and have immediate chemistry with his former teammate at Illinois, Luther Head.


[imgl]http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/1049/pet0wa.jpg[/imgl]#34 Atlanta Hawks - Olexsiy Pecherov
PF, 6-10, 232 lbs., Ukraine
The Hawks add another big man to their roster. They have some options with Pecherov by sending him to the DLeague or stashing him overseas. Pecherov is a talented offensive player and an aggressive scorer, who could come off the bench and be the post presence the Hawks are lacking.


[imgl]http://img447.imageshack.us/img447/4439/gr8ij.jpg[/imgl]#35 - Toronto Raptors - Thabo Sefolosha
SG/SF, 6-5, 213 lbs., Switzerland
Thabo has a lot of "buzz" right now with NBA scouts. He's drawn comparisons to Boris Diaw because of his versatility to play multiple positions on the court. In Phoenix, Bryan Colangelo hand picked Diaw in the Joe Johnson trade, and if he plans on building the Raptors with the same blueprint he had in Phoenix, Thabo would be an ideal fit.



[imgl]http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/384/kp0nk.gif[/imgl]#36 Golden State Warriors - Kevin Pittsnogle
PF, 6-10, 255 lbs., West Virginia
The Warriors have so many projects at every position, it only makes sense for them to use their 2nd round pick on someone who can step in and play right away. He does a lot of similar things on the court Troy Murphy does for the Warriors, but is more physical on defense. Their are rumors the Warriors might gut their team to bring in a superstar (Kevin Garnett & Jermaine O'Neal have been mentioned), and Murphy would likely be part of any trade package.


[imgl]http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/8852/pic24ff.jpg[/imgl]#37 Minnesota TWolves - Quincy Douby
PG/SG, 6-3, 175 lbs., Rutgers
The TWolves never found a replacement for Fred Hoiberg after he retired from heart surgery. They tried Richie Frahm as their spot up shooter, but he didn't fit in and was cut. Quincy Douby is lights out from the perimeter and has the quick catch and release shot needed to succeed in the NBA. The TWolves ranked #29 in 3PT%, which puts them second to last in the league. A huge dropoff from #5 overall just two seasons ago.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/6969/killingsworth7ws.jpg[/imgl]#38 Boston Celtics - Marco Killingsworth
PF, 6-7, 268 lbs., Indiana
The Celtics are one of the hardest teams to figure out in this year's draft. They have young talented players developing at every position. However, if you look at the makeup of this team, the Celtics need an enforcer in the paint. Marco Killingsworth will bring some nastiness to the Celtics frontcourt and will be the player dishing out hard fouls and doing the dirty work inside. Last year the Celtics stole Ryan Gomes in the draft, and Marco Killingsworth could give them another player every GM in the league wished they didn't pass up on. Doc Rivers has the support of the organization to use the "trial by fire" method with his young players. The Celtics had high hopes for Al Jefferson and made moves to work him in as the starting PF. Unfortunately, Jefferson was injured and it setback his development and confidence. Marco Killingsworth was a man amongst boys last season in Indiana. He had some of his best games against the premiere college big men, including Shelden Williams. He completely dominated his matchup against Shelden with his physical prowess in the paint and ability to score with either hand. He had his way with Shelden all game long and easily backed him down for easy baskets. If Killingsworth can stay focused and bully some of these skinny, athletic forwards in the league, he could earn a lot of minutes for Coach Rivers.


[imgl]http://img471.imageshack.us/img471/5333/gans7er.jpg[/imgl]#39 Orlando Magic - Mike Gansey
SG, 6-4, 205 lbs., West Virginia
Adding Mike Gansey gives the Magic another weapon in the backcourt. Gansey isn't as flashy as Jameer, Dooling, or Arroyo, but he can be the change of pace guard the team lacks. Gansey is capable of guarding either guard position and can bring leadership to this ballclub. Mike Gansey is also a lights out shooter and could end up being the best SG in this draft. There's already scouts predicting Gansey will have more success than J.J. Redick. He shot 49% from behind the arc last year at West Viriginia. The Magic are setting themselves up to build a dynasty in Orlando and having great team chemistry is crucial for their success. The Magic will need glue players to keep the team focused on their goal, and Gansey will fit right in with his competitive nature. Jameer Nelson has similar leadership characteristics and adding Mike Gansey gives this young team another voice in the locker room preaching the team concept and then backing it up with unselfish play on the court.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/3007/ray8of.jpg[/imgl]#40 Milwaukee Bucks - Allan Ray
SG, 6-2, 195 lbs., Villanova
You're probably thinking, the last thing the Bucks need is another guy who shoots 3's. The Bucks could go in a different direction here, but we expect some changes in Milwaukee next year. The changes are going to come in the backcourt and the Bucks will likely deal TJ Ford or Mo Williams. The last few weeks Charlie Bell has emerged in the Bucks backcourt. He's a well rounded player and provides the Bucks with the sorely needed perimeter defense they didn't have in the 1st half of the season. Allan Ray gives the Bucks a quality backup to Michael Redd, and is major upgrade over Reece Gaines. This year Redd had to play a career high 39 MPG. I'm sure Stotts would like to get his minutes reduced so he can be fresh in the post season.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/4482/haryasz4dg.jpg[/imgl]#41 Seattle Supersonics - Matt Haryasz
PF, 6-10, 230 lbs., Stanford
Matt Haryasz brings the perimeter dimension back to the PF position. Matt is money from the perimeter, and is willing to give up his body on defense, something Radman never got accustomed to. The situation with Fortson is uncertain, and the Sonics can use as much help upfront as possible. Haryasz has a high basketball IQ, and doesn't need the ball to be effective. The Sonics will likely re-sign Chris Wilcox in the summer to be the starting PF for their team. After him the Sonics have Nick Collison, but he is undersized for the position and has been plagued by injuries. Matt Haryasz gives the Sonics another option off the bench at the 4 position and if he bulks up enough, he could log minutes at Center as well.


[imgl]http://img400.imageshack.us/img400/792/gray4ya.jpg[/imgl]#42 Cleveland Cavaliers - Taj Gray
PF, 6-8, 235 lbs., Oklahoma
The Cavs will probably watch Drew Gooden walk this summer along. The Cavs are going to count on Andersen Varejao developing into the everyday starter, and have Donyell Marshall continue to play a fair amount of backup minutes. Taj Gray fits this team nicely because he has a non-stop motor in games and can create a lot of second chance opportunities for the Cavs. He can be the Reggie Evans type player the Cavs need off the bench to swing momentum in the favor by forcing turnovers and providing the lift off the bench.


[imgl]http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/3716/jose6jl.jpg[/imgl]#43 New Orleans Hornets - Jose Juan Barea
PG, 5-11, 170 lbs., Northeastern
The Portsmouth Invitational Tournament provided the platform for Jose Juan Barea to breakout and generate a lot of hype about his game. He was an assist machine in the tournament and was doing it against quality competition. His performance caught the eye of well known super scout, Marty Blake, and his rave review about Barea skyrocketed him up our mockdraft. Byron Scott likes playing with speed lineups, and Barea could come in and replace Speedy Claxton. The Hornets have a lot of quick, athletic finishers on their roster, so Barea will have plenty of options on the fastbreak. Speedy is a free agent this summer, and might leave to land a starting job on another team, or could price himself out of the Hornets budget.


[imgl]http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8281/zz302fy.jpg[/imgl]#44 Utah Jazz - Rudy Fernandez
SG, 6-6, 172 lbs., Spain
There isn't much roster space in Utah, so they'll have to go International with this pick. Rudolfo Fernandez is the BAP International left on the board, and the Jazz can leave him overseas for one or two seasons while they piece together their team. The Jazz have three 2nd round draft picks this year, it's hard to see them keeping all three. The Jazz will give Gordan Giricek one more opportunity to hold down the off-guard position this year. He's still under contract for two more seasons, and is still their best option at the 2. The problem with Giricek is staying healthy for the Jazz and gaining his confidence back. In his first couple of seasons in the league Giricek looked like he could easily average 20 points per game. The Jazz locked him in for a long term deal and at $4M per season, Giricek was a bargain for the team. He hasn't worked out, so the Jazz need to start planning for the future. After this draft the Jazz will have three studs at the SG position with JJ Redick, Rudy Fernandez, and last year's pick C.J.Miles. The Jazz have been in search for a SG since Jeff Hornacek retired, and the odds are great when they can turn to one of these three for the longterm solution at SG.


[imgl]http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/2796/dials8ud.jpg[/imgl]#45 Utah Jazz - Terrence Dials
C/PF, 6-9, 260 lbs., Ohio State
Utah again, they could go International in back to back picks, but Dials could work his way into their 15 man rotation if he can impress Sloan and show he's a quick learner. Otherwise, the DLeague is where he will spend most of his rookie year. He's a solid player who comes from a great college program and steps up in big game situations. The Jazz have a lot of decisions to make in the offseason. Matt Harpring is a free agent and Kris Humphries has been disappointing for them. Terrence Dials game should translate to the next level because he spent a lot of time in the post as the Center for Ohio State. He has big body and can finish after taking the first bump from the defender. If the Jazz stick with their current starting five, with Boozer playing the 5 spot, then Dials would be the ideal backup off the bench. He's built similar to Boozer, and gets after offensive rebounds.

j0se · Apr 22, 2006

You guys gave Diaz the hammer...damn....

TheGreatK-Bob · Apr 22, 2006

Too late for Dee Brown!

SP23 · Apr 22, 2006

Nice mock. I like the Bulls picks. I don't think some of the guys you put in the first will go there and the 2nd rounders in here will move up to the 1st. Looks really good though!

Trip · Apr 22, 2006

Great mock. I agree with most of your predictions, but it's evident that this mock wasn't done too recently. The draft orders have changed and some other guys have declared. The one I'm especially interested in is Yi JianLian. If reports of him declaring are true, where do y'all think he'll go to? Can he provide some instant impact for a team or would he transition between the NBA and the D-League for a while? Also, can Sun Yue, a 6-9 Chinese PG playing in the ABA, garner some attention in the second round?

NJNetz · Apr 22, 2006

Im confused. Don't the Nets have the 22nd and 23rd pick...instead of 23rd and 25th.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">The Nets won the 2006 NBA Draft tiebreaker with the Memphis Grizzlies by having their name picked out of a basketball by Stu Jackson Friday morning. That means the Nets will hold the 23rd pick in the draft, along with the Clippers' 22nd pick, which they received from Denver in the Kenyon Martin sign-and-trade.</div>

Source

bbwTwinTowers · Apr 22, 2006

I really like who the Magic are going to select in this draft and your right it would build them up pretty well for a dynasty.

Voodoo Child · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting j0se:</div><div class="quote_post">You guys gave Diaz the hammer...damn....</div>

That's not really true. The highest he'll probably go at this point is late first, unless some other players pull out. He also "slipped" because we based our draft on team needs and not talent. #47 is probably the furthest he'll slip, but it's not hard to imagine that happening if everything else happened the way we thought it would.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Too late for Dee Brown!</div>

We explained all of our picks. The least you could do is explain to us why you think that.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Im confused. Don't the Nets have the 22nd and 23rd pick...instead of 23rd and 25th.</div>

Didn't bother to read the opening paragraph? "The order of the teams in our mock draft is based on their standings at the end of the NCAA championship game."

playmaker15 · Apr 22, 2006

Is it me or was Eric Hicks left off? this guy is a tremendous rebounder.

Chutney · Apr 22, 2006

This is pretty amazing for a preliminary mock.

A frontcourt of Villanueva, Bosh, and Bargnani definitely would be intriguing. Offensively, they'd be ridiculously versatile. My only concern is that it doesn't address our lack of defense up front. How good a defender is Bargnani? The Raps need a solid rebounder and shotblocker to compensate for the Bosh and Villanueva's defensive problems.

I like both of the 2nd round picks as well. Both players seem to fit well in our team and I can't really argue against your explanations.

Really Lost One · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting playmaker15:</div><div class="quote_post">Is it me or was Eric Hicks left off? this guy is a tremendous rebounder.</div>
yeah, and what about leon powe? didnt he declare or something? also, what about yi jianlian? overall, nice mock. i like the lakers pics and i guess the sixers pic is ok as well. just one thing. can anyone clarify what a consecutive 2nd round pic means? thanks

oh yeah, and youd be happy if the lakers took nemanja aleksandrov over craig smith and josh boone, shape?

Midnight Green · Apr 22, 2006

Nice mock draft seems pretty solid some things I disagree with, but can see how these scenario’s could go down. First the Bulls I agree they will take Aldridge (at least I really hope so), but then I think them taking Tiago Splitter with their second first round pick is kind of a long shot. The Bulls have given some indirect signs in the past that they would love to have a bigger back court, and not have to start Gordon and Hinrich next to each other. This might cause them to draft a big two guard with that second pick if nothing else, to challenge Gordon and make him better I think Mardy Collins would be a good pick up. Also guys I think they would look at would be an ideal pick up. I just don’t think taking another big man would be wise (at least not that early) when Chandler is locked up long term and we just drafted Aldridge. Eventually, someone will want out so they can become a starter.

Also Dee Brown I think will sneak into the first round some how. I think he would be a good fit for the Los Angeles Lakers. I personally think he would be better than Smush Parker, a bit bias, but I feel that way. Not to mention he would help further increase attendance he seems to have the type of personality that would be perfect for a big market like Los Angeles. I would not mind seeing him in Houston though not a bad situation to be in with former teammate Luther Head.

Anyway, looks like a good mock draft.

Buckets · Apr 22, 2006

Amazing work on the mock, but some guys are later and earlier than I would say but all mocks are different. Rondo will end up going out of the top 20, and Guillermo Diaz has too much potential to slip that late, I think he'll be picked anywhere from 20-35, Dee Brown should be earlier and so should Marco Killingsworth, other than that its pretty good. Thabo would be a good fit for the raptors...

Really Lost One · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Best Kept Secret:</div><div class="quote_post">
Also Dee Brown I think will sneak into the first round some how. I think he would be a good fit for the Los Angeles Lakers. I personally think he would be better than Smush Parker, a bit bias, but I feel that way. Not to mention he would help further increase attendance he seems to have the type of personality that would be perfect for a big market like Los Angeles. </div>
well, i dont think dee brown is better than smush. smush has really improved lately, and although his defense is suspect, he usually gets it done on the offensive end. also, with dee brown, werent you the one who told me he wasnt that good? i dont think the guy has a very good shot, and from what i have read about him, he is too small and a bad desicion maker. i wouldnt mind him in LA at all, but we would have to take him in the second, not the first. though i doubt he will fall that low

Midnight Green · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Brian:</div><div class="quote_post">well, i dont think dee brown is better than smush. smush has really improved lately, and although his defense is suspect, he usually gets it done on the offensive end. also, with dee brown, werent you the one who told me he wasnt that good? i dont think the guy has a very good shot, and from what i have read about him, he is too small and a bad desicion maker. i wouldnt mind him in LA at all, but we would have to take him in the second, not the first. though i doubt he will fall that low</div>
You asked about him after his career game against the Michigan State Spartans in which he had an excellent shooting night, and asked something along the lines of why isn?t he being considered an earlier pick, and I told you he was not as good as he played that night. He was kind of streaky, and that was true. However, he is a good shooter, he struggled with his shooting percentage this season in Illinois, because he was really the main guy who the defenses keyed in on. He can hit the three point shot with consistency if left open, and can get people involved in that Lakers offense. He is also a good defender despite his size, and I think that will translate well into the NBA.

His leadership ability is also unparalleled he has been one of the best leaders in college basketball over the last four seasons. He will give the Lakers another leader outside of Kobe Bryant a guy who will be leave it all on the court, and embrace teammates. What he could do for the Lakers the Smush can?t is defend, be a more consistent shooter, and really be a better pure point guard. That is just me though.

Shapecity · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Buckets:</div><div class="quote_post">Amazing work on the mock, but some guys are later and earlier than I would say but all mocks are different. Rondo will end up going out of the top 20, and Guillermo Diaz has too much potential to slip that late, I think he'll be picked anywhere from 20-35, Dee Brown should be earlier and so should Marco Killingsworth, other than that its pretty good. Thabo would be a good fit for the raptors...</div>

Guillermo Diaz needs to prove he can play PG in the NBA before he moves up our mock draft. We're not talking about passing and dribbling either, it's about running and leading an offense. He's the classic tweener and despite his great athleticism, he's only 6'2. Diaz also needs to improve his shooting touch. To be honest, staying an extra year actually hurt Diaz's stock, because he had a disappointing season.

Locke - Yi Jianlian will be in our next mock, along with Leon Powe and some other players who recently declared. VC and I have always been high on his game and upside, he will definitely crack the lottery.

Dee Brown as a Laker is a possibility, but they have already said they are committed to adding a veteran PG in the offseason with their MLE. He's also a little undersized for the prototypical PG, PJax likes in the Triangle offense. Playing in Houston is a better fit for Dee Brown, because Yao Ming is an established post presence.

Last year Houston averaged 17 attempts from behind the arc, but only made 5 a game. So despite Yao creating those opportunities for his teammates, the team shot only 33% and ranked 4th worst in the league this year.

Tiago might be a stretch and we put him in Chicago for two reasons...

A) The Bulls might not have roster space next year depending on the offseason and who they keep or bring in. They can stash Tiago overseas for now.

Chicago could stand to lose Songalia, Allen, & Harrington to free agency. If they don't retain any of them the frontcourt depth disappears leaving only Chandler, Sweetney, and Aldridge.

Brian - I wrote the two explanations for both Laker picks, and I would be happy with both Nemanja and Denham. However, with the additions in our next mock, the Lakers should be able to get even better talent at #26.

Eric Hicks - He's on the bubble at this point. His showing at Portsmouth was solid, but he didn't really do anything spectacular. Struggling with outside shot didn't help his draft stock at all. He needs to show scouts that he will have ability to play SF in the NBA.

Really Lost One · Apr 22, 2006

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Best Kept Secret:</div><div class="quote_post">You asked about him after his career game against the Michigan State Spartans in which he had an excellent shooting night, and asked something along the lines of why isn’t he being considered an earlier pick, and I told you he was not as good as he played that night. He was kind of streaky, and that was true. However, he is a good shooter, he struggled with his shooting percentage this season in Illinois, because he was really the main guy who the defenses keyed in on. He can hit the three point shot with consistency if left open, and can get people involved in that Lakers offense. He is also a good defender despite his size, and I think that will translate well into the NBA.

His leadership ability is also unparalleled he has been one of the best leaders in college basketball over the last four seasons. He will give the Lakers another leader outside of Kobe Bryant a guy who will be leave it all on the court, and embrace teammates. What he could do for the Lakers the Smush can’t is defend, be a more consistent shooter, and really be a better pure point guard. That is just me though.</div>

ok. good points BKS. i guess he could be a good fit for the lakers, but i still dont see him as a first round pick. he definetly has to be a more consistent shooter. just being good in college doesnt mean a thing. your game must translate in the nba. there are a lot of good shooters drafted, but most of them cant shoot for their life once they get into the big leagues. that is what i think will happen to brown. for some reason, i dont think he will develope a nice jump shot, and i dont think he will ever be a good shooter. it seems like he is a good defensive player, but the guy is too small. he is also a turn over prone from what i have read. i dont know if he will fit in the triangle, since the triangle requires taller point guards that can shoot the ball well.

i dont know. im not against the idea of drafting dee brown, but i would not take him with our first rounder. if he fell all the way to our second round pick, i would take him in a heart beat. he seems like a low risk high reward type of player.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Brian - I wrote the two explanations for both Laker picks, and I would be happy with both Nemanja and Denham. However, with the additions in our next mock, the Lakers should be able to get even better talent at #26.</div>

thanks shape. i really dont know much about either guys. for some reason, i have a bad feeling about any international player. i think we should just stay in the states and pick a proven player like craig smith. i dont like josh boone much, but at least we know he can be a pretty good defensive player. as for nemanja? look at how our other international player turned out to be like. (sasha vujacic) i dont have much faith at all with these international players, since most of them turn into busts anyways.

as for denham? dont know much about him, but i would much rather get james white. i think the kid has tons of potential, and if anything he should be able to make a name for himself in the dunk contest.

whatever we do, please mitch, do not draft a player that is projected to be undrafted. *cough* *cough* von wafer

GatorsowntheNCAA · Apr 22, 2006

This would be my perfect draft for the Magic. We don't get any superstars, but we get 2 people who put the team before them and are very selfish. I think Brandon Roy would fit in perfectly with our team. He does everything, very unselfish and will do whatever it takes to win. Mike Gansey was one of my favorite non Gators. He has good defense, nice range and is a very underrated player, IMO. I could see him as a solid role player for the Magic.

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