Official Draft Discussion Thread (1 Viewer)

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">Assuming that we get a relatively high pick in the draft, would you package some of our picks from the deadline plus our lottery and Sweetney for a guranteed Andrew Bogut?</div>

Wow!!! Why dont we package Ariza as well? I mean you're giving them everything else. That's too much for a player who has yet to prove himself. Last I heard he's not a good low post defender and is at best a decent shot blocker.

The sky's the limit for Sweetney. If he keeps working hard like all Georgetown big men do and learns to stay out of foul trouble I dont think anyone will be able to stop him in paint. If it was just Sweetney I'd think about it. But all of our picks including a high lottery pick...please. We would be suckers to trade all of that for Bogut. Tiago Splitter is a better low post defender and shotblocker, probably as good at rebounding, has a good jumpshot, nice post up game and can pass.

Bogut may be the next Tim Duncan but:
Michael Sweetney+Tiago Splitter>Andrew Bogut

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Wow!!! Why dont we package Ariza as well? I mean you're giving them everything else. That's too much for a player who has yet to prove himself. Last I heard he's not a good low post defender and is at best a decent shot blocker.</div>
Me too, but Bogut seems really legit. I mean he has played in the olympics which demonstrates his maturity. I guess I really would give up anything for him. Just a scenario to think about.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">The sky's the limit for Sweetney. If he keeps working hard like all Georgetown big men do and learns to stay out of foul trouble I dont think anyone will be able to stop him in paint. If it was just Sweetney I'd think about it. But all of our picks including a high lottery pick...please. We would be suckers to trade all of that for Bogut. Tiago Splitter is a better low post defender and shotblocker, probably as good at rebounding, has a good jumpshot, nice post up game and can pass. </div>
Wow, you really want Splitter. I was just thinking about Europeans. Do you think we should draft here? I mean I was looking back at last years draft and I was thinking about Araujo. I hope we don't get someone like this who hasn't helped the franchise as much as expected. Should we really use a lottery on Splitter?

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Bogut may be the next Tim Duncan but:
Michael Sweetney+Tiago Splitter>Andrew Bogut</div>
True, never payed attention to that equation. I just really want Bogut, brother!

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">Me too, but Bogut seems really legit. I mean he has played in the olympics which demonstrates his maturity. I guess I really would give up anything for him. Just a scenario to think about.



Wow, you really want Splitter. I was just thinking about Europeans. Do you think we should draft here? I mean I was looking back at last years draft and I was thinking about Araujo. I hope we don't get someone like this who hasn't helped the franchise as much as expected. Should we really use a lottery on Splitter?


True, never payed attention to that equation. I just really want Bogut, brother!

</div>

Bogut did play in the Olympics and that's nice for him. But who was the last great player that came out of Australia? If you know more power to you because I sure dont. Maybe Bogut was in the Olympics because they dont have alot of good players from Australia. I could be wrong though. I just dont think we should read too much into this Olympics thing. It's understandable that you want Bogut, I want Bogut too but it's ridiculous to give up everything we have for him.

Tiago Splitter is projected to go fourth in the draft. Behind Bogut(the next Tim Duncan they say), Marvin Williams and Chris Paul(best college point guard in college). He's one of the best shot blockers and among the better low post defenders in the draft. As a bonus he does alot of his offensive work in the low post(Agguire could probably turn him into a monster) and has a good jumpshot. Currently he's getting significant minutes and putting up good numbers on one of the deepest teams in Europe. Outside of the NBA the Euroleague is the most competitve basketball league in the world. They do not develop young players at all. That's the amount of pressure placed on teams. All that matters is winning so only guys who can produce and help the team win get minutes. The fact that he's actually getting playtime should tell you something about Tiago Splitter. I havent the slight clue as to why Araujo was drafted so high but I seriously doubt Splitter will disappoint.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Bogut did play in the Olympics and that's nice for him. But who was the last great player that came out of Australia? If you know more power to you because I sure dont. Maybe Bogut was in the Olympics because they dont have alot of good players from Australia. I could be wrong though. I just dont think we should read too much into this Olympics thing. It's understandable that you want Bogut, I want Bogut too but it's ridiculous to give up everything we have for him.</div>
I see what you're saying but I guess you can understand how badly I want a Tim Duncan on my team for obvious reasons. They said this guy is legit though, Bogut will put us on the map as a rookie so imagine what he can do in some years with Aguirre? But now that you mention it, that's giving up a lot. A 9th pick and a potential lottery pick plus the rest of them is somewhat overdoing it.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Tiago Splitter is projected to go fourth in the draft. Behind Bogut(the next Tim Duncan they say), Marvin Williams and Chris Paul(best college point guard in college). He's one of the best shot blockers and among the better low post defenders in the draft. As a bonus he does alot of his offensive work in the low post(Agguire could probably turn him into a monster) and has a good jumpshot. Currently he's getting significant minutes and putting up good numbers on one of the deepest teams in Europe. Outside of the NBA the Euroleague is the most competitve basketball league in the world. They do not develop young players at all. That's the amount of pressure placed on teams. All that matters is winning so only guys who can produce and help the team win get minutes. The fact that he's actually getting playtime should tell you something about Tiago Splitter. I havent the slight clue as to why Araujo was drafted so high but I seriously doubt Splitter will disappoint.</div>
I heard some of them would pull out which will reduce our chances of getting someone good. He seems decent, who do you see him becoming...Pau Gasol? This is starting to look scary he's from Brazil too. I really hope you're right man, I trust you. I wouldn't mind having him the way I've heard about him. Also what do you think of Martynas Andriuskevicius? He seems decent and he can be good becuase of his size. I hope to see more and hear more about them in the future (June.)

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">I see what you're saying but I guess you can understand how badly I want a Tim Duncan on my team for obvious reasons. They said this guy is legit though, Bogut will put us on the map as a rookie so imagine what he can do in some years with Aguirre? But now that you mention it, that's giving up a lot. A 9th pick and a potential lottery pick plus the rest of them is somewhat overdoing it.


I heard some of them would pull out which will reduce our chances of getting someone good. He seems decent, who do you see him becoming...Pau Gasol? This is starting to look scary he's from Brazil too. I really hope you're right man, I trust you. I wouldn't mind having him the way I've heard about him. Also what do you think of Martynas Andriuskevicius? He seems decent and he can be good becuase of his size. I hope to see more and hear more about them in the future (June.)</div>

Marvin Williams is the only who will probably backout. Bogut is definetely going to be in the draft and Chris Paul will probably be in it if his hometown team(Charlotte) guarantees to draft him with their pick.

Tiago Splitter is projected to become Pau Gasol but I think he'll be a better shot blocker. However he's not going to be any better at rebounding which really isnt an issue considering Sweetney's rebouding abilities. Martynas Andriuskevicius(what a last name!) is probably going to declare for next year's draft. I like him, he's a walking mismatch(like Nowitzki) but from what I understand he's not going to be in the draft this year so I'm really not thinking about him.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Marvin Williams is the only who will probably backout. Bogut is definetely going to be in the draft and Chris Paul will probably be in it if his hometown team(Charlotte) guarantees to draft him with their pick.</div>
Maybe, but I guess that will depend on the lottery and where the Bobxats end up. I hope no one else baks out!

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Tiago Splitter is projected to become Pau Gasol but I think he'll be a better shot blocker. However he's not going to be any better at rebounding which really isnt an issue considering Sweetney's rebouding abilities. Martynas Andriuskevicius(what a last name!) is probably going to declare for next year's draft. I like him, he's a walking mismatch(like Nowitzki) but from what I understand he's not going to be in the draft this year so I'm really not thinking about him.</div>
Exactly how good of a rebounder is he? I've seen various mock drafts and most of them have him this year. Also that Nemanja guy is interesting, but we need a C the most. Anyway I hope Splitter develops a great jumper I mean 3 point range because that will compliment a post threat and a penetrator the most especially with Houston's future in question.

Btw, who do we draft with our 29th pick. What position do you think we should get? I think a great shooter like Reddick can be good, or like you said that Veremeeko seems legit.

 

[Platehpus]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">Btw, who do we draft with our 29th pick. What position do you think we should get? I think a great shooter like Reddick can be good, or like you said that Veremeeko seems legit.</div>
Most likely will be traded.

 

[02civic]

Hey guys, just wanted to voice some concern. Take it has you will, I'm not trying to start an arguement since I've been purposly staying out of the NY forum in the same way mrj18 has been the Raps forum

Just wanted to say that i think mrj18 is right to offer that boat load for Bogut. i dont think Splitter is your answer at all. He's an inch to two inches taller than Bosh and yet weighs the same. Skinny like rail. This could improve, but he's a LONG(several years at best) away from being a center body wise. Other than that he's a good player, but i was just thinking with your log jam at the 4 spot you really really really dont need another one. I'd look at a nice point gaurd like (in order of quality and fit)


Deron Williams
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/deronwilliams.asp

Raymond Felton
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/raymondfelton.htm

Daniel Gibson
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/danielgibson.asp

Jarret Jack
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/jarrettjack.htm

John Gilchrist
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/johngilchrist.asp

or even the under the radar player in Roko-Leni Ukic
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/rokoleniukic.htm

You really need a backup PG now with Brewer gone(want great anyways) and the potential(which i think is a good idea) of trading Marbury for some building blocks.

My suggestion if its possible is to trade your lottery pick, Sweetney, the future first rounder from the Spurs for a pick to get Bogut...but only if its for sure you'll get him (either its the #1 pick or the teams in front declare their taking a different player). Then with your late first round pick try and nab a PG like Jack or Gilchrist if they drop down low (others will likely be too early).
Roko will almost certainly be available at a 28-30th pick.

Just my 2 cents, cause a PF is NOT what you want and I doubt you want to wait for a project to become playable at the 5 spot.

Good luck in the lottary, the Raps will you see you there

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting 02civic:</div><div class="quote_post">Hey guys, just wanted to voice some concern. Take it has you will, I'm not trying to start an arguement since I've been purposly staying out of the NY forum in the same way mrj18 has been the Raps forum

Just wanted to say that i think mrj18 is right to offer that boat load for Bogut. i dont think Splitter is your answer at all. He's an inch to two inches taller than Bosh and yet weighs the same. Skinny like rail. This could improve, but he's a LONG(several years at best) away from being a center body wise. Other than that he's a good player, but i was just thinking with your log jam at the 4 spot you really really really dont need another one. I'd look at a nice point gaurd like (in order of quality and fit)


Deron Williams
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/deronwilliams.asp

Raymond Felton
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/raymondfelton.htm

Daniel Gibson
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/danielgibson.asp

Jarret Jack
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/jarrettjack.htm

John Gilchrist
http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/johngilchrist.asp

or even the under the radar player in Roko-Leni Ukic
http://www.angeltowns.com/members/nbadraft/rokoleniukic.htm

You really need a backup PG now with Brewer gone(want great anyways) and the potential(which i think is a good idea) of trading Marbury for some building blocks.

My suggestion if its possible is to trade your lottery pick, Sweetney, the future first rounder from the Spurs for a pick to get Bogut...but only if its for sure you'll get him (either its the #1 pick or the teams in front declare their taking a different player). Then with your late first round pick try and nab a PG like Jack or Gilchrist if they drop down low (others will likely be too early).
Roko will almost certainly be available at a 28-30th pick.

Just my 2 cents, cause a PF is NOT what you want and I doubt you want to wait for a project to become playable at the 5 spot.

Good luck in the lottary, the Raps will you see you there

</div>

I want Bogut but I'm not willing to hand over Sweetney and a lottery pick for him. Sweetney will probably turn into a 20/10 guy while at the same time making everyone around him better. Splitter is definetely better defensively than Bogut. He's a better on ball defender and shot blocker. He also has some good moves in the low post, Agguire would do wonders with him. So Sweetney and Splitter together will be able to do more for us than just Bogut.

Splitter and Bogut believe it or not weigh the same although Bogut has more muscle. Splitter relies more on agility, quickness and footwork to score in the paint anyway so weight isnt really that big of an issue. By the way I believe Splitter has gotten bigger and stronger this year. If not he can just hit the weight room he can add quite a few pounds of muscle without losing athleticism. There are few true centers left in the league(Shaq, Big Z, Yao). Splitter will be just fine playing center. Besides he makes up for his weight with his long wingspan and athleticism. He will have no problem playing as a modern center.

All those point guards you listed are going to be gone by the time our pick comes up. Besides Penny and Crawford can both run the point. Marbury is going to get like 36 minutes anyway so a back up point guard isnt really needed right now. A better time to get one would be in the 2006 draft. I'd rather use it to draft Vladimir Veremeenko and try to move one of our current powerforwards.

Between Sweetney and Splitter we'll have a great duo in the paint for many years to come. We will have two great low post threats, a shot blocker and a fantastic rebounder. What more could you want out of your big men? We'll have no problem building a team around those two. They could be like Tim Duncan and David Robinson. That would be great to have dont you think?

Good luck to you guys too. Hope you have better luck this year than last year(Why did you guys draft Araujo?) My suggestion to the Raptors is to draft Charlie Villainueva and play him at center.

 

[02civic]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">I want Bogut but I'm not willing to hand over Sweetney and a lottery pick for him. Sweetney will probably turn into a 20/10 guy while at the same time making everyone around him better. Splitter is definetely better defensively than Bogut. He's a better on ball defender and shot blocker. He also has some good moves in the low post, Agguire would do wonders with him. So Sweetney and Splitter together will be able to do more for us than just Bogut.

Splitter and Bogut believe it or not weigh the same although Bogut has more muscle. Splitter relies more on agility, quickness and footwork to score in the paint anyway so weight isnt really that big of an issue. By the way I believe Splitter has gotten bigger and stronger this year. If not he can just hit the weight room he can add quite a few pounds of muscle without losing athleticism. There are few true centers left in the league(Shaq, Big Z, Yao). Splitter will be just fine playing center. Besides he makes up for his weight with his long wingspan and athleticism. He will have no problem playing as a modern center.

All those point guards you listed are going to be gone by the time our pick comes up. Besides Penny and Crawford can both run the point. Marbury is going to get like 36 minutes anyway so a back up point guard isnt really needed right now. A better time to get one would be in the 2006 draft. I'd rather use it to draft Vladimir Veremeenko and try to move one of our current powerforwards.

Between Sweetney and Splitter we'll have a great duo in the paint for many years to come. We will have two great low post threats, a shot blocker and a fantastic rebounder. What more could you want out of your big men? We'll have no problem building a team around those two. They could be like Tim Duncan and David Robinson. That would be great to have dont you think?

Good luck to you guys too. Hope you have better luck this year than last year(Why did you guys draft Araujo?) My suggestion to the Raptors is to draft Charlie Villainueva and play him at center.

</div>


Your call. But all of those PG's with the exception of Paul, *should* be around for your lottary pick. And with Crawford possibly having to play big 2 gaurd minutes with Houston's health in the crapper and Penny being injury prone, old and having an expiring contract next year, i figured a nice young play making PG is what you guys could use.

Araujo..well alot of people had him projected at the 12 or 13 spot....one at the 18 spot. We grabbed him early because i guess they couldnt work out a suitable deal to trade down, and because we needed a big that could make an immediate difference. It didnt work out that way has he hasnt had much of an impact. He's been a dissapointment, though i think he can pick it up and be a solid center in this league still. I like the look of Charlie, though i'm going to say i prefer them taking either a Bogut(fat chance) or a nice swingman or even a PG if Alston goes on another rampage. Felton or Paul would be nice, same with Green if they feel they can fix his attitude.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting 02civic:</div><div class="quote_post">Your call. But all of those PG's with the exception of Paul, *should* be around for your lottary pick. And with Crawford possibly having to play big 2 gaurd minutes with Houston's health in the crapper and Penny being injury prone, old and having an expiring contract next year, i figured a nice young play making PG is what you guys could use.</div>
Why would we draft a PG (except Paul) with our lottery pick? The Knicks need a shot blocker and just a big man in the middle the most. Even if we needed a PG, it isn't worth our lottery pick. We can sign one in the summer league or something. Marbury will log 40 minutes a game and needing a backup for that isn't our main concern at all!

 

[02civic]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">Why would we draft a PG (except Paul) with our lottery pick? The Knicks need a shot blocker and just a big man in the middle the most. Even if we needed a PG, it isn't worth our lottery pick. We can sign one in the summer league or something. Marbury will log 40 minutes a game and needing a backup for that isn't our main concern at all!</div>

1) You have no backup PG. Crawford's style isnt suited for being a PG, penny is not reliable injury wise, is old and will be out of there in a year.

2) Funny thing! Injuries happen! I know it sounds weird...but what happens if Marbury breaks his hand, or his leg...or if he's got the flu during the conference finals. To me it just makes sense to get either a true Center(are none you'll get), or a PG. Those are the only 2 positions that you dont have alot of players to fill. Crawford, TT, Ariza, Penny, Houston, JYD can all play the 3....take JYD and TT out and put Marbury in and they can all play the 2. Rose, Taylor, Thomas, JYD, Sweetney can all play the 4 and some 5 in this undersized NBA. So it brings me back to my original statement that none of the legit centers in the draft are NBA ready. They'd be projects. NY doesnt do projects because they want to win now rather than later. Thats the logic.

3) You keep talking about trading Marbury...having a decent young PG that can take over the reigns would allow you to explore that avenue to its fullest

4) There are more PG's worthy of a high pick than just Paul. Felton is great and it wouldnt be a miracle to see him picked has high 7th or 8th. Deron Williams aint no slouch either and should be a lottary pick. Gibson will be about the 20th pick.

5) You do realize that the PG might be the most important person on the floor. So its important to get a good one. Sure a Jamison Brewer will eat up some minutes...but isnt it better to have a quality one that can step in during injuries, sickness, trades and other problems?



There are no centers in the draft other than Bogut, and even he needs to bulk up some. Taft is maybe but he needs work and alot of people have grown sour on him. To me a PG fits better, and there are some highly ranked ones. But we can all have our opinions.
Peace.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting 02civic:</div><div class="quote_post">1) You have no backup PG. Crawford's style isnt suited for being a PG, penny is not reliable injury wise, is old and will be out of there in a year.</div>
Crawford's style is perfect for PG and it's been proven the Knicks perform more effectively when he's running the point. I don't know where you get the impression Penny is injury prone like he's a Vince Carter or Baron Davis or someone because he's not. Plus we also have Jermaine Jackson who is a pretty solid backup and gives us good defense.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">2) Funny thing! Injuries happen! I know it sounds weird...but what happens if Marbury breaks his hand, or his leg...or if he's got the flu during the conference finals. To me it just makes sense to get either a true Center(are none you'll get), or a PG. Those are the only 2 positions that you dont have alot of players to fill. Crawford, TT, Ariza, Penny, Houston, JYD can all play the 3....take JYD and TT out and put Marbury in and they can all play the 2. Rose, Taylor, Thomas, JYD, Sweetney can all play the 4 and some 5 in this undersized NBA. So it brings me back to my original statement that none of the legit centers in the draft are NBA ready. They'd be projects. NY doesnt do projects because they want to win now rather than later. Thats the logic.</div>
If Marbury breaks his hand, we'll most likely have Crawford at 1 and Houston/Penny at the 2. Or Jackson at the 1 and Crawford at the 2.they're many variations we can do. There is a couple of centers we can get. Splitter could be a good center, we can get Petro, or Villanueva. PG is definitely secondary and is not a main concern at all! Why even use our good lottery pick to draft a project who will give us 10 minutes behind Marbury? That is our least of problems now.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">3) You keep talking about trading Marbury...having a decent young PG that can take over the reigns would allow you to explore that avenue to its fullest</div>
Marbury would get 40 minutes a night. Obviously if we trade him we wont have anything to worry about the minutes however, if he stays we wont really need to use our lottery pick to draft someone who will give us 10 minutes a game.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">4) There are more PG's worthy of a high pick than just Paul. Felton is great and it wouldnt be a miracle to see him picked has high 7th or 8th. Deron Williams aint no slouch either and should be a lottary pick. Gibson will be about the 20th pick.</div>
Sure there good PG's, but they're not worth our pick. That isn't our main concern. Our main concern is at the 5 if anything that's our least problem.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">5) You do realize that the PG might be the most important person on the floor. So its important to get a good one. Sure a Jamison Brewer will eat up some minutes...but isnt it better to have a quality one that can step in during injuries, sickness, trades and other problems? </div>
NO Our concern isn't a PG! First off, Brewer isn't with us anymore, second off, you mentioning our height problems is precisely why we need a big man! Why don't the Raptors draft a I don't know...Taft just in case Bosh gets injured. That doesn't seem very logical to me.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">There are no centers in the draft other than Bogut, and even he needs to bulk up some. Taft is maybe but he needs work and alot of people have grown sour on him. To me a PG fits better, and there are some highly ranked ones. But we can all have our opinions.
Peace.</div>
We can get Petro, Villanueva is decent and so is Splitter. Taft is just another PF who we don't need. The Knicks situation isn't an opinion it's a fact. Imagine Kurt Thomas playing another year of C. Give me a break. We need a big man and Marbury most likely wont be gone for a long time and using our lottery to draft a PG playing 10 minutes behind him a night for the next couple of years doesn't seem like the best decision for us to make. Perhaps with our S.A. pick but definitely not with our lottery!

 

[Knicks Analyst]

02 civic, please just leave. Thanks for your insight, but just...go. Thanks.

 

[JWohl]

(no title)

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Knicks Analyst:</div><div class="quote_post">02 civic, please just leave. Thanks for your insight, but just...go. Thanks.</div>
amen to that

 

[02civic]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Knicks Analyst:</div><div class="quote_post">02 civic, please just leave. Thanks for your insight, but just...go. Thanks.</div>


You know what, i think i will, I've had enough. Enjoy your centers that are taller and weigh the same has Chris Bosh

peace out

 

[Mr. J]

I'm having second thoughts on Tiago Splitter.

Do you think he can provide an immediate presence? I mean at 240, shifting him to center might be a bit much. I think PF will be a better fit for him especially at such a young age. Could he play offense at the 5 and defense at the 4? Will that work out? I think I'd rather take Petro. I mean he's 260 7 feet and is motivated. This means Aguirre can really mold him into something special. Other than his weight, is there another thing to worry about. The thing I like about him is his experience. He has more than Nene who turned out to be a good player.

I am also really thinking about Villanueva. I mean he might seem a bit Antoine Walkerish, but he really does have talent. We can work the pick and roll with him and can provide us with great versatility.

Pass on that cat from Lithuania. The 7-3 guy. He will take too much time to make an impact. We'll have to Darko him and I'm not about to wait for that.
Btw, I found someone else...
Kosta Perovic

Height: 7'2
Weight: 240
Position: Center
Yugoslavia
Strengths:
This guy can pass very well and his height obviously helps him in finding the open man. He is fairly athletic for his size too. In addition he also has a pretty good jumpshot and again, his height helps him with that as well. A good shot blocker who alters many shots. He can hit the 15 footer well and is a reliable option to give it to.

Weaknesses:
Obviously his weight. He can stand to gain a lot more weight. Give him some off seasons and he'll be less of a liability on defense. Not much post skills, but with Aguirre around, he can become more than decent especially with his athleticism. Most of his advantages are mostly based on his height too.

 

[Mr. J]

I never posted him here. Anyway, you're familiar with Johan Petro...

Johan Petro Highlight He takes a little travel but, they don't call

If the draft was today and I had the 7th pick assuming that the Mocks hold true and Paul, Bogut, Splitter, Martjhbkjdfkjd, etc. are taken. I'd definitely take this guy. He seems promising and I like his game. I think he can develop into something here in NY.

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">I'm having second thoughts on Tiago Splitter.

Do you think he can provide an immediate presence? I mean at 240, shifting him to center might be a bit much. I think PF will be a better fit for him especially at such a young age. Could he play offense at the 5 and defense at the 4? Will that work out? I think I'd rather take Petro. I mean he's 260 7 feet and is motivated. This means Aguirre can really mold him into something special. Other than his weight, is there another thing to worry about. The thing I like about him is his experience. He has more than Nene who turned out to be a good player.

I am also really thinking about Villanueva. I mean he might seem a bit Antoine Walkerish, but he really does have talent. We can work the pick and roll with him and can provide us with great versatility.

Pass on that cat from Lithuania. The 7-3 guy. He will take too much time to make an impact. We'll have to Darko him and I'm not about to wait for that.
Btw, I found someone else...
Kosta Perovic

Height: 7'2
Weight: 240
Position: Center
Yugoslavia
Strengths:
This guy can pass very well and his height obviously helps him in finding the open man. He is fairly athletic for his size too. In addition he also has a pretty good jumpshot and again, his height helps him with that as well. A good shot blocker who alters many shots. He can hit the 15 footer well and is a reliable option to give it to.

Weaknesses:
Obviously his weight. He can stand to gain a lot more weight. Give him some off seasons and he'll be less of a liability on defense. Not much post skills, but with Aguirre around, he can become more than decent especially with his athleticism. Most of his advantages are mostly based on his height too.</div>

Even at 240lbs Splitter will not have too much of a problem defending the center position. His wingspan and athleticism will be enough to save him should any center try to post him up. Sort of like how Camby defends the center spot. And if worse comes to worse, Sweetney is more than strong enough to defend the center position. Playing Splitter at the center position gives him a big advantage on the offensive end of the floor. He has a good jumpshot, can put the ball on the floor and work in the low post using his footwork and quickness. All of this combines to make him an all around threat on offense against opposing centers.

I dont know about Petro. He doesnt really have a post up game and I question his work ethic. He doesnt seem to be very competitive and he'll have to be to improve his game. I didnt find any information that shows Petro has alot of experience. From what I've read he can hardly get off the bench which I think has more to do with his coach not playing young guys than his actual skill. Villanueva also has suspect work ethic. There's something about him that I dont like. He's versatile and all but he has a low basketball IQ and sometimes looks extremely lazy. Besides he's lighter than Splitter and almost certainly isnt as good as a shot blocker so he'll be a bigger defensive liability than Splitter.

Kosta Perovich is projected to enter the 2006 draft(according to a very reliable mockdraft) to be selected in the second round. Enough said. Bogut or Splitter or even Martynas. Those are the people we should be looking at.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Even at 240lbs Splitter will not have too much of a problem defending the center position. His wingspan and athleticism will be enough to save him should any center try to post him up. Sort of like how Camby defends the center spot. And if worse comes to worse, Sweetney is more than strong enough to defend the center position. Playing Splitter at the center position gives him a big advantage on the offensive end of the floor. He has a good jumpshot, can put the ball on the floor and work in the low post using his footwork and quickness. All of this combines to make him an all around threat on offense against opposing centers.</div>
Very good point, I just remembered Camby who was very effective at the center position even at his skinny weight.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">I dont know about Petro. He doesnt really have a post up game and I question his work ethic. He doesnt seem to be very competitive and he'll have to be to improve his game. I didnt find any information that shows Petro has alot of experience. From what I've read he can hardly get off the bench which I think has more to do with his coach not playing young guys than his actual skill. Villanueva also has suspect work ethic. There's something about him that I dont like. He's versatile and all but he has a low basketball IQ and sometimes looks extremely lazy. Besides he's lighter than Splitter and almost certainly isnt as good as a shot blocker so he'll be a bigger defensive liability than Splitter.</div>
The coach wants to protect his younger players, after losing Pietrus not too long ago. From the sites I read, Petro's wprk ethic is underrated and is more than what he is given credit for. Splitter is projected to be taken pretty high from the Mocks I've read, in one of them, he's #4! If Splitter is gone, who would you take?

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Kosta Perovich is projected to enter the 2006 draft(according to a very reliable mockdraft) to be selected in the second round. Enough said. Bogut or Splitter or even Martynas. Those are the people we should be looking at.</div>
Bogut is almost certainly out of the question. And I don't know about Martynas. I did more research on him and found out it will take a while for him to really contribute. He really is more of a ?project? and can?t contribute right away. He has little post moves and adding that to him being a tooth pick = a lot of work. A majority of his points are due to shooting over smaller centers. He gets the least amount of burn between almost every European prospect. No thanks.

I don?t know Spanish, but if anyone here does, here?s a link on the Knicks expressing some interest on Igor Rakocevic from Serbia. Link

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">The coach wants to protect his younger players, after losing Pietrus not too long ago. From the sites I read, Petro's wprk ethic is underrated and is more than what he is given credit for. Splitter is projected to be taken pretty high from the Mocks I've read, in one of them, he's #4! If Splitter is gone, who would you take?


Bogut is almost certainly out of the question. And I don't know about Martynas. I did more research on him and found out it will take a while for him to really contribute. He really is more of a ?project? and can?t contribute right away. He has little post moves and adding that to him being a tooth pick = a lot of work. A majority of his points are due to shooting over smaller centers. He gets the least amount of burn between almost every European prospect. No thanks.

I don?t know Spanish, but if anyone here does, here?s a link on the Knicks expressing some interest on Igor Rakocevic from Serbia. Link</div>


I dont want to use a lottery pick on a player who has questionable work ethic. That just isnt smart. He doesnt have any post moves and I dont know if Agguire can turn him into a low post threat. Sweetney had a small arsenal of post moves so Agguire had something to work with. It's unlikely that Petro will become a reliable low post threat.

I know Splitter is projected to go high but I have a feeling he's not going to be drafted that high. Other guys are getting more attention like Taft and Warrick. I'll be very surprised if Splitter is drafted in the top five although he probably should. But if I cant have Splitter...Martynas would be my next choice followed by Nemenja(if he's in it), Marvin Williams(if he enters), Taft, Jack Jarett, Deron Williams, Villanueva. I dont like Villanueva's or Taft's work ethic but I'll be willing to take a chance on them if I cant have those other guys.

Patience is a virtue. Martynas is definetely a project but I'm definetely willing to wait for him. I'd draft him and let him stay in Europe for a few years until he's ready to come over. He's a true seven foot center dripping with potential. He's athletic and versatile. He can shoot the jumpshot, is a great passer, has the potential to be a good on ball defender and shotblocker and will develop some great moves in the low post. He'll be a mix of Big Z and Sabonis with a sprinkle of athleticism. He's playing under Sabonis right now and I have faith that Sabonis will turn this kid into something special. Years from now I believe Martynas will be one of the dominant centers in the league. By the time he's fully developed and comes to the NBA, Sweetney and Ariza will also be good players and we'll have an extremely solid team. Especially if we draft well and hang onto our young players.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">I dont want to use a lottery pick on a player who has questionable work ethic. That just isnt smart. He doesnt have any post moves and I dont know if Agguire can turn him into a low post threat. Sweetney had a small arsenal of post moves so Agguire had something to work with. It's unlikely that Petro will become a reliable low post threat.</div>
Well, from what I heard he is very motivated and his work ethic is underrated. If I remember correctly, Nazr had no post game what so ever and at age 27, Aguirre transformed him and he had a legit post game. Now imagine someone with more size, more athleticism and more potential. He can develop a little post game at the very least.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Patience is a virtue. Martynas is definetely a project but I'm definetely willing to wait for him. I'd draft him and let him stay in Europe for a few years until he's ready to come over. He's a true seven foot center dripping with potential. He's athletic and versatile. He can shoot the jumpshot, is a great passer, has the potential to be a good on ball defender and shotblocker and will develop some great moves in the low post. He'll be a mix of Big Z and Sabonis with a sprinkle of athleticism. He's playing under Sabonis right now and I have faith that Sabonis will turn this kid into something special. Years from now I believe Martynas will be one of the dominant centers in the league. By the time he's fully developed and comes to the NBA, Sweetney and Ariza will also be good players and we'll have an extremely solid team. Especially if we draft well and hang onto our young players.</div>
Patience and faith, and luck is also what we need. If someone like Petro isn't getting any burn, imagine him. I He has career highs of five points and three boards in two seperate games. Yeah, he might be playing under Sabonis, but this guy definitely has his hands full. Sure, he is 7'3 guy with potential but if that's the case, why is he any different from someone like Pavel Podkolzin? Or how about Nikoloz Tsktisvhili and Zarko Cabarkapa? A lot of people are dripping with potential, but what about him makes him any different than someone else. Tim Thomas is dripping with potential and so was that guy we drafted in the second round 2 years ago who was 7?5. Yeah, it can do him good if he spent a year or to in Europe, but he has to really dominate to get my vote. He needs to actually stop riding on the bench and get some minutes. I?d take Tiago Splitter, he seems legit, but I don?t know about this Martynas guy anymore. I?d much rather take Petro over him.

 

[JWohl]

response

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Tim Thomas is dripping with potential and so was that guy we drafted in the second round 2 years ago who was 7?5</div>
are you reffering to fredrick weis?

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">Well, from what I heard he is very motivated and his work ethic is underrated. If I remember correctly, Nazr had no post game what so ever and at age 27, Aguirre transformed him and he had a legit post game. Now imagine someone with more size, more athleticism and more potential. He can develop a little post game at the very least.


Patience and faith, and luck is also what we need. If someone like Petro isn't getting any burn, imagine him. I He has career highs of five points and three boards in two seperate games. Yeah, he might be playing under Sabonis, but this guy definitely has his hands full. Sure, he is 7'3 guy with potential but if that's the case, why is he any different from someone like Pavel Podkolzin? Or how about Nikoloz Tsktisvhili and Zarko Cabarkapa? A lot of people are dripping with potential, but what about him makes him any different than someone else. Tim Thomas is dripping with potential and so was that guy we drafted in the second round 2 years ago who was 7?5. Yeah, it can do him good if he spent a year or to in Europe, but he has to really dominate to get my vote. He needs to actually stop riding on the bench and get some minutes. I?d take Tiago Splitter, he seems legit, but I don?t know about this Martynas guy anymore. I?d much rather take Petro over him.</div>

Some people say Petro isnt motivated some people say he is. I dont want to take the chance that he has a poor work ethic. Nazr did indeed develop a postup game but he was hardly dominant in the low post. I like Perto's defense but that's all he has to offer it looks like and that's simply not enough to be a lottery pick.

Martynas is a project so of course Petro is getting more minutes. He's raw but he has tons more potential. All those other guys you named didnt live up to their potential because they came to the NBA, got no minutes, had no chance to develop and ended up rotting on the bench. Much like Darko is right now for the Pistons. If we draft him and let him play and develop in Europe under Sabonis(for 4-6 years) then Martynas will live up to his potential. TT is lazy and satisfied with his game which is why he'll never realize his full potential. Martynas on the other hand is a hard worker. There is no reason to think that he wont turn into the player that he can turn into. And having a seven foot center who can pass, shoot, postup, rebound, defend, block shots and run the floor will do wonders for any team's frontline.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Some people say Petro isnt motivated some people say he is. I dont want to take the chance that he has a poor work ethic. Nazr did indeed develop a postup game but he was hardly dominant in the low post. I like Perto's defense but that's all he has to offer it looks like and that's simply not enough to be a lottery pick.</div>
Yeah, he was hardly dominant however, it was quite a huge step from where he came from. Before he scored off of garbage baskets and easy dunks Marbury gave him. No post game whatsoever got transformed into a legit one. If he can become a Camby like player, that would be great for us. Camby's defense was great but he had no offense. He turned out to be a great center for us.


<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Martynas is a project so of course Petro is getting more minutes. He's raw but he has tons more potential. All those other guys you named didnt live up to their potential because they came to the NBA, got no minutes, had no chance to develop and ended up rotting on the bench. Much like Darko is right now for the Pistons. If we draft him and let him play and develop in Europe under Sabonis(for 4-6 years) then Martynas will live up to his potential. TT is lazy and satisfied with his game which is why he'll never realize his full potential. Martynas on the other hand is a hard worker. There is no reason to think that he wont turn into the player that he can turn into. And having a seven foot center who can pass, shoot, postup, rebound, defend, block shots and run the floor will do wonders for any team's frontline.</div>
But 4-6 years? That's really a lot of time. I mean, what can we do during that time. Who will play center for us. Kurt Thomas not again. He'll be gone for next year probably. By that time, we'll probably have another young center and Martynas will probably not be needed. I'd much rather take Splitter over him and take a risk on Petro than wait another 4-6 years. By that time, I think he'll be able to average a double double and if he really sucks, we'll probably go into the lottery again so we can draft someone else. There are tons of 7+ guys in europe who can pass, post, shoot and obviously block shots. How is he more special than anyone else.

I'll take Splitter in the draft. I'll do some more research, but so far he seems like the best.

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">But 4-6 years? That's really a lot of time. I mean, what can we do during that time. Who will play center for us. Kurt Thomas not again. He'll be gone for next year probably. By that time, we'll probably have another young center and Martynas will probably not be needed. I'd much rather take Splitter over him and take a risk on Petro than wait another 4-6 years. By that time, I think he'll be able to average a double double and if he really sucks, we'll probably go into the lottery again so we can draft someone else. There are tons of 7+ guys in europe who can pass, post, shoot and obviously block shots. How is he more special than anyone else.

I'll take Splitter in the draft. I'll do some more research, but so far he seems like the best.</div>

Like I said, patience is a virtue. We try to win while he's playing in Europe of course. If he's developing well in Europe we keep that starting center slot open so when he does come we'll be able to throw him in. If we suck while we're waiting for him all that means are lottery picks we can use to add to our youth core.

You know other 7+ centers in Europe who has the potential to pass like Sabonis, shoot like Yao, postup like Big Z, run the floor like David Robinson, rebound like...an athletic 7'2" center, defend like...a smart athletic 7'2" center who learned under Sabonis, block shots like an athletic 7'2" center? What are their names?? I'd rather have Tiago Splitter as well but if I cant have him or Bogut, Martynas is the kid I want. He has too much potential to be ignored. Imagine the damage him and Sweetney could do together. They'll completely dominate the paint. Imagine Ariza streaking towards the basket and Martynas hitting him with the pass allowing Ariza to finish the play with a dunk. I see Martynas becoming a dominant center in the league. By the time he comes around Big Z and Shaq will probably be gone or not as good so the only other dominant center will be Yao. Martynas is a more than solid investment for the future for any team.

 

[Mr. J]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Tribute to H2O:</div><div class="quote_post">Like I said, patience is a virtue. We try to win while he's playing in Europe of course. If he's developing well in Europe we keep that starting center slot open so when he does come we'll be able to throw him in. If we suck while we're waiting for him all that means are lottery picks we can use to add to our youth core.

You know other 7+ centers in Europe who has the potential to pass like Sabonis, shoot like Yao, postup like Big Z, run the floor like David Robinson, rebound like...an athletic 7'2" center, defend like...a smart athletic 7'2" center who learned under Sabonis, block shots like an athletic 7'2" center? What are their names?? I'd rather have Tiago Splitter as well but if I cant have him or Bogut, Martynas is the kid I want. He has too much potential to be ignored. Imagine the damage him and Sweetney could do together. They'll completely dominate the paint. Imagine Ariza streaking towards the basket and Martynas hitting him with the pass allowing Ariza to finish the play with a dunk. I see Martynas becoming a dominant center in the league. By the time he comes around Big Z and Shaq will probably be gone or not as good so the only other dominant center will be Yao. Martynas is a more than solid investment for the future for any team.</div>
4-6 years I'd be 20-22! That's a while!! I can't imagine being that old. I probably be in the NBA by that time

! I know that would be a huge plus if we could get an athletic guy that can block shots, run the floor, shoot, and post up. That would be a huge plus for us. If that's the case, he could average about 17 points//8.5 rebounds//4 assists//2 blocks. Could he develop a 3 point shot? He would also become more of a monster with Aguirre around too. Those kinds of numbers are great numbers and I would take that any day, but do you think it's worth it? I mean let's say this guy comes out dissapointing. Do you think that it's worth it to sacrifice potential help 4-6 years and someone who can develop into a very good player like Martynas? If we don't draft anyone this year, we will basically be repeating this season again. I think drafting Splitter is something we need to do. We'll get help immediately and he will continue to develop. Martynas is somewhat risky. He does have a huge upside with patience and time. I don't know. I think we might be able to get splitter though. With Paul, Bogut, Marvin and overrated players like Taft around, we might be able to get him. Keep your fingers crossed!

 

[Mr. J]

Chris Taft

Chris Taft
Height: 6-10
Weight: 260 (I'm not sure, some places list him at 230 however, Pittsburgh's official website lists him as 260 so I am going with that)
Position: PF/C
From: Pittsburgh
Age: 20

Strengths: Extremely athletic especially for a big man. He has long arms and a good wingspan. Very strong if this cat is really 260 and has those hops with those muscles, he will be very good for years to come. His strength makes him a very solid post defender. His wingspan allows him to block shots and not bite on easy fakes. He runs the floor like a deer and is someone you can definitely swing it to on the fast break.

Weaknesses: A grade A underacheiver. Some say it's because Pittsburgh isn't utilizing him the right way (maybe like Gary Payton and the triangle offense) but with all of that talent, he could put up moster numbers. To put it plainly: He is a potential Tim Thomas, but TT had 3 point range in addition to his post moves. Most of his baskets are off put backs and easy baskets in the paint. He hasn't shown much range and doesn't have a good post game. He simply has a jump hook to his arsenal in the post. Again, a real underacheiver and hasn't improved much when he was a freshman.

Positive Outlook: Chris Wilcox at his full potential or an Antonio McDyess
Negative Outlook: A PF version of TT without the 3 point ability

This guy if motivated could really be a force in the NBA. He could possibly average 20 and 10 plus two blocks in the NBA. He is really talented and has potential, but should we really risk our pick on him if we go in the draft?? I don't think so. I don't want him on my team.

 

[Mr. J]

Interesting Stat

Interesting Stat:
In last year with Spain...
Pau Gasol:
23.8mpg 11.0ppg 5.1rpg 0.7apg. FG%: .580

Tiago Splitter:
14.4mpg 8.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 1.0 bpg, 0.6apg 51.5 FG%

So in 9 less minutes Splitter is giving those numbers.

 

[Tribute to H2O]

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting mrj18:</div><div class="quote_post">4-6 years I'd be 20-22! That's a while!! I can't imagine being that old. I probably be in the NBA by that time

! I know that would be a huge plus if we could get an athletic guy that can block shots, run the floor, shoot, and post up. That would be a huge plus for us. If that's the case, he could average about 17 points//8.5 rebounds//4 assists//2 blocks. Could he develop a 3 point shot? He would also become more of a monster with Aguirre around too. Those kinds of numbers are great numbers and I would take that any day, but do you think it's worth it? I mean let's say this guy comes out dissapointing. Do you think that it's worth it to sacrifice potential help 4-6 years and someone who can develop into a very good player like Martynas? If we don't draft anyone this year, we will basically be repeating this season again. I think drafting Splitter is something we need to do. We'll get help immediately and he will continue to develop. Martynas is somewhat risky. He does have a huge upside with patience and time. I don't know. I think we might be able to get splitter though. With Paul, Bogut, Marvin and overrated players like Taft around, we might be able to get him. Keep your fingers crossed!</div>

Dont worry you'll be 20 before you know it and wishing you drafted Martynas this year. You're thinking small with Martynas. 17ppg?!?! When I said dominant center I meant it. Dominant like Duncan or Garnett or Dirk, MVP material. But he wont be a three point shooter. You cant have everything you know. I would rather have Splitter because he is simply a sure thing. Worst case scenario for him is Chris Mihm and he's the starting center for the Lakers. Bogut is also almost guaranteed to be a solid contributor. Martynas is all potential and usually I wouldnt want someone based purely on potential. They just might not work out. But there really isnt any other big man I like in the draft so considering the lack of true big men, yes I think he's worth the wait and risk.

I dont trust Taft so please keep him away from my team. I think any team that drafts him will be very sorry. And I dont like his name either. Tiago Splitter sounds better.