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tbach24
06-28-2005, 01:57 PM
At 2:30 a.m., many NBA executives are still in their offices, sipping coffee and reviewing their mock drafts.

Millions of dollars worth of scouting, dozens of personal workouts and hours of breaking down film have come down to this.

When David Stern opens the draft for business today at 7:30 p.m. ET, teams are comfortable they know what's happening in the first five minutes. After that? Forget about it.

"Anyone who claims they know what's going to happen tomorrow is either a liar or a psychic," one NBA executive drafting in the mid-first round said Monday. "There are too many variables. Too much parity. Too many rumors floating around. We don't have a clue who's going to be on the board when we pick. And we get paid to do this."

That is the refrain around the league. The draft is deep. The gap between picks 10 and 30 isn't very large. The trade talk is rampant. Bad rumors are floating everywhere.

Throw some chicken bones on the floor and pass the Ouija board – here's our final mock draft with a look at who we think will be taken and a few alternatives should best laid plans go awry.

Also see: Second-round mock


1. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
Andrew Bogut
UTAH | SOPHOMORE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20
This sounds like the only sure thing in the draft. The Bucks continue to maintain that they haven't made their decision but everyone believes that they'll select Bogut at No. 1. A mock draft is supposed to tell you who the Bucks are going to take … not who they should take. I still believe that Marvin Williams should be the No. 1 pick in the draft. Bogut's not a bad pick. He has the chance to be special and he's a low-risk player, but I'm still not convinced it's the right decision.

Alternate Pick: Marvin Williams

Scouting report on Andrew Bogut




2. ATLANTA HAWKS
Marvin Williams
NORTH CAROLINA | FRESHMAN | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 18
This is very tough. The word coming out of Atlanta the past two days is that they're seriously considering bypassing Marvin and drafting either Chris Paul or Deron Williams. They don't need a small forward and desperately need a point guard. Both Paul and Deron worked out well. Marvin was just OK. Everything in the draft hinges on what the Hawks do here. If they pass on Marvin, get ready for a wild night.

Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams

Scouting report on Marvin Williams



3. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Deron Williams
ILLINOIS | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 20
The chances of the Blazers' trading this pick are very high. If Marvin Williams is taken at No. 2, expect the Blazers to send the draft rights to Deron Williams along with Ruben Patterson and Sergei Monya to the Jazz for the Nos. 6 and 27 picks, Gordan Giricek and possibly Kirk Snyder. The teams have been in serious trade talks for days and the deal likely will be consummated on draft night if Marvin Williams is off the board. If the Hawks pass on Marvin Williams, all bets are off. Either the Blazers will keep the pick or they'll trade it to the Bobcats for Nos. 5 and 13.

Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Chris Paul

Scouting report on Deron Williams



4. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
Chris Paul
WAKE FOREST | SOPHOMORE | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-1 | WEIGHT: 178 | AGE: 20
The Hornets also have been involved in trade talks but most have surrounded adding picks, not getting rid of this one. The Hornets like both Paul and Deron Williams and will take whoever is left. If they're both off the board, that means Marvin Williams falls to them – the best of all circumstances. If they trade down, Granger would be the guy. Their biggest need is at small forward and Granger, who's from Louisiana, would be a great fit.

Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Deron Williams, Danny Granger

Scouting report on Chris Paul



5. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Danny Granger
NEW MEXICO | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 225 | AGE: 22
The Bobcats are trying to move up in the draft to get their hands on Marvin Williams or Paul. If Paul, Marvin and Deron Williams are off the board, the team will choose between potential (Green) and immediate impact (Granger). Given Bernie Bickerstaff's track record last year, don't be surprised if it's Granger.

Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Gerald Green, Martell Webster

Scouting report on Danny Granger



6. UTAH JAZZ
Gerald Green
GULF SHORES ACADEMY | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 19
Picking the Houston high school player assumes that Utah will swap picks with the Blazers. The Blazers are high on Green, Martell Webster and high school center Andrew Bynum. However, we hear they'll grab Green if they land at No. 6. If the Jazz keep this pick, look for them to snag Channing Frye if both Chris Paul and Deron Williams are off the board.

Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Andrew Bynum, Channing Frye

Scouting report on Gerald Green



7. TORONTO RAPTORS
Martell Webster
SEATTLE PREP | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18
The Raptors have been in serious talks with the Hornets about trading No. 7, and possibly No. 16, to New Orleans for Jamaal Magloire. If that trade happens (and it might if both Green and Granger are off the board), the Hornets likely would select Frye. If the Raptors keep the pick, they have a tough choice between Frye and Webster. Webster has the upside, Frye fits a need. It's a tough call between the two.

Alternate Picks: Gerald Green, Danny Granger, Channing Frye

Scouting report on Martell Webster



8. NEW YORK KNICKS
Channing Frye
ARIZONA | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 245 | AGE: 22
Isiah Thomas can breathe a sigh of relief. Insider first reported three weeks ago that the Knicks made a promise to Frye and shut down his workouts. Since then, both the Jazz and Raptors have flirted with taking him. Frye and his agent, Rob Pelinka, have told both teams that he doesn't want to play in Utah and Toronto. That could be enough to scare them off. Given the Knicks' lack of size, Frye is the obvious choice. If he's off the board, high school center Andrew Bynum and Spanish forward Fran Vazquez are possibilities.

Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Hakim Warrick

Scouting report on Channing Frye



9. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Hakim Warrick
SYRACUSE | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 22
If both Granger and Frye are off the board, it appears the Warriors have narrowed their list to Warrick, Ike Diogu and Sean May. Sources claim they've been leaning toward Warrick, a long, lean athletic forward who should be able to run the floor with Baron Davis and Jason Richardson.

Alternate Picks: Ike Diogu, Sean May, Fran Vazquez

Scouting report on Hakim Warrick



10. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Charlie Villanueva
CONNECTICUT | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 20
This is awfully high for Villanueva, but under the scenarios above, most of the players the Lakers like are off the board. The Lakers like Villanueva because he's a great fit in the triangle, but they're going to have to get rid of some logjams if he's going to get any minutes next season. If Villanueva doesn't go here, the Bobcats and Pacers are also high on him.

Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez

Scouting report on Charlie Villanueva



11. ORLANDO MAGIC
Joey Graham
OKLAHOMA STATE | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 216 | AGE: 22
The Magic could go in many different directions here. They've also been looking hard at Webster, Warrick and May. Orlando would like to get tougher and more athletic and Graham would be a great choice. He's a hard worker who can play both the three and the four. He reminds some of a bigger Corey Maggette. Antoine Wright is also a very strong possibility here.

Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Antoine Wright, Hakim Warrick, Sean May

Scouting report on Joey Graham



12. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Antoine Wright
TEXAS A&M | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 21
There's talk that the Clippers are the team that promised Russian forward Yaroslav Korolev they'd pick him. However, as we reported in Treviso, Italy, it's a soft promise contingent on certain players not being on the board. Is Wright one of them? It will be tough for the Clips to pass on Wright's versatility and perimeter shooting. The Clippers have depth just about everywhere, but Wright will provide insurance should Donald Sterling decide not to pony up for free agents Bobby Simmons and Marko Jaric. The Clips also are very high on Rashad McCants, though concerns about his attitude and stomach problems may cause them to pass.

Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Rashad McCants

Scouting report on Antoine Wright



13. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Raymond Felton
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20
This is a real steal for the Bobcats if they can land Felton here, assuming they don't nab a point guard at No. 5. Felton's the fastest point guard in the draft baseline to baseline, has improved his outside shooting and is an excellent floor leader. If Felton is gone, look for the Bobcats to trade this pick to either the Pacers or Nuggets. The Bobcats could also package this pick along with No. 5 to move up to get Marvin Williams. If that happens, the Blazers would likely take Bynum here.

Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Andray Blatche

Scouting report on Raymond Felton



14. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Francisco Garcia
LOUISVILLE | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 190 | AGE: 23
I think the Wolves are giving new "consultant" Rex Chapman more power than they're letting on. If that's true, look for the Wolves to grab Garcia, a player Chapman (and the rest of the Suns staff) have been high on all year. Garcia's a terrific shooter and could be a nice replacement for Latrell Sprewell.

Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Fran Vazquez, Roko Ukic

Scouting report on Francisco Garcia



15. NEW JERSEY NETS
Rashad McCants
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20
McCants may be the toughest guy in the draft to project. On talent, he's easily a top-10 pick, maybe top five, but just about every team in the league has uncovered a number of red flags on the background check. Between his attitude problems and his stomach issues, there's a lot to be concerned with. But if the Nets don't take him, the Pacers likely will at No. 17. The team has also focused seriously on adding a big and Warrick (if he slipped), May and Diogu are all real possibilities here. Look for the Nets to be active tonight, either moving up (packaging this pick with a future first) or down for multiple picks.

Alternate Picks: Hakim Warrick, Sean May, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum

Scouting report on Rashad McCants



16. TORONTO RAPTORS
Sean May
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 21
The Raptors need a tough scorer and rebounder in the paint and May should be a perfect fit. Though he's a little undersized to play his natural position (center) in the pros, he should be fine paired next to Chris Bosh. Bosh's ability to dominate in the high post along with May's ability to finish around the rim should give the Raptors an effective high-low punch in the paint. The Raptors have also been seriously looking at Croatian point guard Roko Ukic.

Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum, Jarrett Jack

Scouting report on Sean May



17. INDIANA PACERS
Yaroslav Korolev
RUSSIA | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 17
The Pacers were high on Villanueva, McCants, Garcia and May. If all of them are gone, don't be surprised if the Pacers go for the best future prospect. Korolev has all the skills to be a Toni Kukoc-type player in the future. They're just going to have to wait on him.

Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Sean May, Fran Vazquez

Scouting report on Yaroslav Korolev



18. BOSTON CELTICS
Roko Ukic
CROATIA | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 21
Look for Danny Ainge to go international if Graham is off the board. Ukic's had a great year in Croatia. He should be able to come in and immediately help the Celtics. He's long, plays defense and is very tough and experienced. If he could shoot, he'd be a much higher pick.

Alternate Picks: Joey Graham, Yaroslav Korolev, Ike Diogu, Andray Blatche, Monta Ellis

Scouting report on Roko Ukic



19. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Fran Vazquez
SPAIN | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
Vazquez's stock has dropped like a rock since rumors surfaced two weeks ago that he wants to stay in Spain next year. Combine that with two so-so group workouts for NBA executives and he's in trouble. Still, he has way too much talent to slip too far in the draft and would be a nice complement on the front line to Pau Gasol. Jerry West is also a huge fan of Julius Hodge, so he could be the pick here if Vazquez goes earlier. The Grizzlies have also been shopping this pick. The Cavs, Pistons and the Blazers (who are looking for a second No. 1) are in the mix.
Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum, Jason Maxiell

Scouting report on Fran Vazquez



20. DENVER NUGGETS
Ike Diogu
ARIZONA STATE | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 21
The Nuggets really wanted to get their hands on either McCants, Wright or Garcia and have tried to package their two first-round picks in an effort to move up. If it doesn't happen, it's tough to see Diogu slipping past here. The Nuggets could use another big body and the addition of Diogu could free them up to use Nene as trade bait to get a big-time two-guard in a trade.

Alternate Picks: Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Julius Hodge, Luther Head

Scouting report on Ike Diogu



21. PHOENIX SUNS
Johan Petro
FRANCE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 19
Petro has the size and talent of a lottery pick, but he's been very slow to develop, which has caused some NBA teams to worry. Petro is probably another year or two away from helping a team, even if he does develop. However, if he ever gets it, he could be the perfect center in the Suns' system down the road. Don't be surprised if Nate Robinson also gets a look here. He's a perfect fit in their super-speed offense.

Alternate Picks: Nate Robinson, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Andray Blatche, Ersan Ilyasova

Scouting report on Johan Petro



22. DENVER NUGGETS
Andrew Bynum
ST. JOSEPH, N.J. | H.S. | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 17
The Nuggets have decided to either trade this pick or use it on a project. If Bynum (from Metuchen, N.J.) falls this far (talk about knee problems may be sinking his stock at the moment), something will happen. Either a team will cut a deal to grab him or the Nuggets will take him themselves and develop him as a long-term replacement for Marcus Camby.

Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, C.J. Miles, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Ersan Ilyasova

Scouting report on Andrew Bynum



23. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Chris Taft
PITTSBURGH | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20
Taft has the size and strength of a lottery pick and the work ethic of an NBDL player. Still, he's a steal once teams begin drafting in the 20s. He has the physical tools to replace Chris Webber on the Kings' front line. But will Rick Adelman ever be able to motivate him?

Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Ersan Ilyasova, Monta Ellis, David Lee

Scouting report on Chris Taft



24. HOUSTON ROCKETS
Wayne Simien
KANSAS | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 22
Despite reports to the contrary, the Rockets likely will keep this pick. Houston could use a tough rebounder with experience and Simien fits the bill. Concerns about injuries and size are the only things keeping him out of the lottery. He's one of those few guys who aren't afraid to go inside and bang, but also has a nice perimeter game. He's a safe pick. Point guards Ukic and Luther Head could also be steals here.

Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Julius Hodge

Scouting report on Wayne Simien



25. SEATTLE SONICS
Jarrett Jack
GEORGIA TECH | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 21
Jack could be off the board in the mid-first round, but it's conceivable that he slips all the way to here. He's a very good point guard prospect who just needs to cut down on his turnovers. With Antonio Daniels set to bolt in free agency, the Sonics have a strong need for a back-up point guard with size and toughness.

Alternate Picks: Ersan Ilyasova, Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Angelo Gigli

Scouting report on Jarrett Jack



26. DETROIT PISTONS
Julius Hodge
NORTH CAROLINA ST | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 205 | AGE: 21
Hodge may not be the greatest shooter in the draft, but he has all the intangibles Joe Dumars loves in his players. He's tough, versatile and he seems to want it more than most guys on the floor. The team is also looking strongly at Ryan Gomes, a Corliss Williamson-like forward and Jason Maxiell, the mini-Ben Wallace.
BR>
Alternate Picks: Ryan Gomes, Nate Robinson, Jason Maxiell

Scouting report on Julius Hodge



27. UTAH JAZZ
Martynas Andriuskevicius
LITHUANIA | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 7-3 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 19
This pick assumes that the Jazz are swapping with the Blazers. Portland once considered taking Andriuskevicius in the lottery and would be ecstatic to get a player of his talent this low in the draft. If Utah keeps the pick, it's tough to argue that they'd do it differently, though they could go for Roko Ukic if they didn't get a point guard earlier.

Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ersan Ilyasova, Jason Maxiell

Scouting report on Martynas Andriuskevicius



28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Ersan Ilyasova
TURKEY | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 18
The Spurs have a history of mining international diamonds in the rough late in the first round. Ilyasova would be no exception. He's big, athletic, and very skilled. The only reason he slips this far is because an ankle injury retarded his development this year. Miles is also a real possibility here.

Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Mickael Gelebale, C. J. Miles

Scouting report on Ersan Ilyasova



29. MIAMI HEAT
Luther Head
ILLINOIS | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 180 | AGE: 22
Head may be the biggest steal in the draft if he lasts this long. Teams will start seriously considering him in the mid first round. He'd be awesome in the Miami backcourt next to Dwyane Wade. There's also talk that the Heat are high on local product Matt Walsh along with rumors that the Heat may have promised Serbian center Mile Ilic.

Alternate Picks: Matt Walsh, Mile Ilic, Chris Taft, Wayne Simien

Scouting report on Luther Head



30. NEW YORK KNICKS
Andray Blatche
SOUTH KENT PREP (Conn.)| H.S. | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18
Blatche has been under the radar all year, in part because he's insisted on not playing like a 7-footer in order to show NBA scouts that he's versatile. Blatche has been referred to as a poor man's Kevin Garnett. He runs the floor well, can handle the ball, has 3-point range on his jumper and is an excellent rebounder. He may be a year or two away, but eventually he and Channing Frye could be a great pair on the Knicks' front line.

Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, Mile Ilic

Scouting report on Andray Blatche

--------------------------------

If anyone wants the scouting report on a player, just ask.

When it says "Scouting report on xxxxxx" that's supposed to be a link but it didn't work for copying over.

Should I post round 2 as well?

goofball
06-28-2005, 02:04 PM
ugh. i hate the blazer management. i know they are somehow going to <font color="black">[censored]</font> this up.

xadrez
06-28-2005, 02:20 PM
Ive actually started to hope that the Knicks take Bynum.

Screw it, the team is going to suck for a couple years anyway...might as well go with the "tremendous upside potential"

IndieMatty
06-28-2005, 03:48 PM
Post round 2 please.

Anyone else doing the Sports Guy drinking game tonight?

Back by popular demand! What to do during the rapid-fire 5-minute wait between picks? As you sift through the TV analysis, try this game (soda for the kids, please):

Cliché (No. of sips)
"Upside" (1)
"The next..." (1)
"Best player available" (1)
"Need pick" (1)
"On the clock" (1)
"On the board" (1)
"Intangibles" (1)
"Tweener" (1)
"Sleeper" (-1)
"Athletic"/"Ath-a-letic" (2)
"Length" (2)
"Should've stayed at..." (3) "Needs to hit weights" (2)
"Weight problem" (3)
"Good character" (3)
"Questionable character" (-3)
Any Euro-bashing (5)
Any Duke-bashing (8)
"But I could be wrong" (10)

IndieMatty
06-28-2005, 03:49 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Ive actually started to hope that the Knicks take Bynum.

Screw it, the team is going to suck for a couple years anyway...might as well go with the "tremendous upside potential"

[/ QUOTE ]


I'm in the Frye camp now. There's a reason all these teams are jockeying for him. I want Blatche with the 30th pick though.

Aces McGee
06-28-2005, 03:52 PM
I think this is the Daily Quickie guy (Dan Shanoff) drinking game.

-McGee

Aces McGee
06-28-2005, 03:53 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I'm in the Frye camp now.

[/ QUOTE ]

I have a feeling that the Raps are taking Frye.

-McGee

xadrez
06-28-2005, 04:12 PM
Blatche would be a nice pick with the 30th. The other kid, Ellis (PG) could go here too.

pudley4
06-28-2005, 04:19 PM
[ QUOTE ]
ugh. i hate the blazer management. i know they are somehow going to <font color="black">[censored]</font> this up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, they already made the trade down with Utah, so that's a good start (no sarcasm)

IndieMatty
06-28-2005, 04:37 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
ugh. i hate the blazer management. i know they are somehow going to <font color="black">[censored]</font> this up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, they already made the trade down with Utah, so that's a good start (no sarcasm)

[/ QUOTE ]

Did you see how many picks they got for that trade down? In a draft like this, with so much mediocre talent between 5 and 25, this was a great trade.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 04:50 PM
</font><blockquote><font class="small">En réponse à:</font><hr />
</font><blockquote><font class="small">En réponse à:</font><hr />
I'm in the Frye camp now.

[/ QUOTE ]

I have a feeling that the Raps are taking Jack.

-McGee

[/ QUOTE ]

Aces McGee
06-28-2005, 05:01 PM
At 7?

-McGee

MoreWineII
06-28-2005, 05:14 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
ugh. i hate the blazer management. i know they are somehow going to <font color="black">[censored]</font> this up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, they already made the trade down with Utah, so that's a good start (no sarcasm)

[/ QUOTE ]

Did you see how many picks they got for that trade down? In a draft like this, with so much mediocre talent between 5 and 25, this was a great trade.

[/ QUOTE ]

Agreed. #3 was too high to draft Webster or Green and that's who they're after. This way, assuming they don't trade #27, they can get a project in what is really an incredibly deep draft, I think.

I'm hoping they take Webster. He might not be quite as gifted as Green, but it sounds like his mental makeup is 100x better and that's really what this franchise needs.

I think Green blowing off that workout because he didn't want to dribble against Nate was a really bad sign.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 05:16 PM
16, sorry. I wasn't thinking.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 05:45 PM
Almost everyone in the NBA agrees that this may be the deepest draft in the last 20 years. With so many college underclassmen, high school seniors and international players keeping their names in this year, there are literally 30 more players who could actually make the NBA next season – especially with the new minor league set to take off.

Pay attention closely to the second round. Many of these players would have been late first-rounders in past drafts, and several of them have the potential to be very good players.

Also see: First-round mock



31. ATLANTA HAWKS
Monta Ellis
LANIER (Miss.) | H.S. | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 176 | AGE: 19
Ellis could very well go in the first round, but if he's still on the board, the Hawks will jump on him – especially if they don't get a guard in round one. Ellis has a ton of talent, but he's probably years away. Could be the second coming of Chauncey Billups.






32. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Nate Robinson
WASHINGTON | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 5-8 | WEIGHT: 180 | AGE: 21
Robinson will get a look from both the Suns and the Pistons, but if he slips, he won't last long. He'd be great on an up-tempo team like the Clippers, which has two big point guards in Shaun Livingston and Marko Jaric, and could afford to play Robinson at the two.

Scouting report on Nate Robinson



33. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
Ryan Gomes
PROVIDENCE | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 22
Gomes also is in the mix with Detroit and San Antonio, but if he slips, it's hard to see him getting by the Hornets, who are desperate for a versatile small forward like Gomes.

Scouting report on Ryan Gomes



34. UTAH JAZZ
David Lee
FLORIDA | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
The Jazz could go a number of ways here, but it would be tough to pass on Lee – the most athletic power forward at the Chicago combine.

Scouting report on David Lee



35. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Mile Ilic
SERBIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 21
The Blazers have been high on Ilic and can afford to leave him in Europe for the next few years and let him continue to develop over there.

Scouting report on Mile Ilic



36. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
Jason Maxiell
CINCINNATI | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 22
The Bucks get the finesse with Bogut and the ferocity with Maxiell, the strongest and most aggressive big man in the draft. He's undersized, but next to Bogut, he'll be just fine.

Scouting report on Jason Maxiell



37. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Dwayne Jones
SAINT JOSEPH'S | JUNIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 242 | AGE: 22
Jones is a little undersized to play center, but he's long and a great shot blocker, things the Lakers could really use.

Scouting report on Dwayne Jones



38. ORLANDO MAGIC
Matt Walsh
FLORIDA | JUNIOR. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 205 | AGE: 22
If Walsh doesn't go to Miami at No. 28, he won't last too long in the second round. One of the draft's best shooters will help the Magic with their perimeter woes.

Scouting report on Matt Walsh



39. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Axel Hervelle
BELGIUM | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
Hervelle has picked up the rep as the Dennis Rodman of Europe for his glass-cleaning skills. This is a down-the-road pick who could develop nicely over time.

Scouting report on Axel Hervelle



40. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Brandon Bass
LSU | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 20
Bass would be a mid-first rounder if he were a little taller. The big man does a little of everything. Good rebounder with an improving perimeter game.

Scouting report on Brandon Bass



41. TORONTO RAPTORS
C.J. Miles
SKYLINE HIGH | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 18
Miles has a few interested parties in the first round (like Denver) but chances are he slips a little bit. He's the type of kid who did everything well, but nothing great – in high school in Dallas. A project who could pay off big with a little patience.

Scouting report on C. J. Miles



42. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Deji Akindele
CHICAGO STATE | SOPHOMORE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 22
He was horrible at the Chicago predraft camp, but teams are still intrigued by his strength and size. He is a long term project who will likely spend the next two years playing in the D league.

Scouting report on Deji Akindele



43. NEW JERSEY NETS
Lucas Tischer
BRAZIL | FORWARD-CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 270 | AGE: 22
The mysterious Brazilian has shocked the teams he's worked out for with his athleticism. He's still very raw offensively, but given his size and athletic ability, worth a reach at this point in the draft. Another likely D leaguer.

Scouting report on Lucas Tischer



44. ORLANDO MAGIC
Randolph Morris
KENTUCKY | FRESHMAN | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20
Morris will get some consideration in the later first round, but slipping this far isn't inconceivable. He's a little undersized, lacks athleticism and is a long way away from helping anyone. The Magic are starved for centers, so they'll take a risk.

Scouting report on Randolph Morris



45. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Sean Banks
MEMPHIS | SOPHOMORE | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 206 | AGE: 19
Last year, he was a lottery pick. This year, he's a steal if he can get his act together. Had a big performance in Chicago and is a prototypical small forward prospect.

Scouting report on Sean Banks



46. INDIANA PACERS
Kennedy Winston
ALABAMA | JUNIOR | GUARD-FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 20
One of the better shooters in the draft may slip a little bit. Still, he can stroke it which could help the Pacers replace what they're losing with Reggie Miller.

Scouting report on Kennedy Winston



47. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Mickaël Gelebale
FRANCE | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 22
This athletic swingman really started to develop in Real Madrid this season. The Wolves can leave him overseas, and in a year or two he could be an impact player for Minnesota.

Scouting report on Mickaël Gelebale



48. SEATTLE SONICS
Angelo Gigli
ITALY | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 22
The Italian big man is a decent athlete who showed some surprising perimeter skills. Sonics can keep him overseas to develop.

Scouting report on Angelo Gigli



49. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Ronny Turiaf
GONZAGA | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 22
The Wizards need toughness in the paint and that's something Turiaf can provide. With Kwame Brown heading into free agency, he could actually get some minutes next season.

Scouting report on Ronny Turiaf



50. BOSTON CELTICS
Linas Kleiza
MISSOURI | SOPHOMORE | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 20
Kleiza will actually get a serious look by several teams in the first round. He's very skilled, but just doesn't quite have a position. He's convinced some NBA executives that he might be able to make the switch to the three in the pros. He has a Lithuanian passport which means the Celtics can send him overseas for seasoning for a few years.

Scouting report on Linas Kleiza



51. UTAH JAZZ
Marcin Gortat
POLAND | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 21
Gortat is actually one of the more athletic centers in the draft. He's still raw, but has a lot of upside. Utah would likely leave him in Germany for a year or two.

Scouting report on Marcin Gortat



52. DENVER NUGGETS
Salim Stoudamire
ARIZONA | SENIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-1 | WEIGHT: 180 | AGE: 23
The best shooter in the draft slips because of attitude and size issues. Denver really needs him. They also like Milan Majstorovic and Ian Mahinmi a lot and could go that route if Stoudamire is off the board.

Scouting report on Salim Stoudamire



53. BOSTON CELTICS
Rawle Marshall
OAKLAND | SENIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 186 | AGE: 23
He's long, athletic and he's learned how to shoot. A real draft sleeper who could help the Celtics down the road after a stint in the D league.

Scouting report on Rawle Marshall



54. NEW YORK KNICKS
John Gilchrist
MARYLAND | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 195 | AGE: 21
Gilchrist was considered a first-rounder before blowing it this year. He repaired some of the damage with a very nice performance in Chicago. He has good size and toughness for the position and should remind Isiah a little of Stephon Marbury.

Scouting report on John Gilchrist



55. SEATTLE SONICS
Amir Johnson
WESTCHESTER HIGH | H.S. | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 18
An athletic power forward from Los Angeles who should've gone to college, but he didn't have the grades and was forced into the draft. He's long, athletic and very raw. Would be a nice pick here to go and do his thing in the D league for another couple of years.

Scouting report on Amir Johnson



56. DETROIT PISTONS
Anthony Roberson
FLORIDA | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 22
Roberson doesn't really have a position, but he's tough and has a nice stroke.

Scouting report on Anthony Roberson



57. PHOENIX SUNS
Daniel Ewing
DUKE | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 185 | AGE: 22
The Suns are looking for someone who can run the floor, play defense and relieve Steve Nash for a few minutes every night. Ewing's far from a pure point guard, but he should be able to push it up the floor, shoot and defend.

Scouting report on Daniel Ewing



58. TORONTO RAPTORS
Travis Diener
MARQUTTE | SENIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-1 | WEIGHT: 165 | AGE: 23
He's a fiery competitor who can stroke it and play the point.

Scouting report on Travis Diener



59. ATLANTA HAWKS
Will Bynum
GEORGIA TECH | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0 | WEIGHT: 188 | AGE: 22
Is he a point guard? Probably not. But he's a fantastic athlete who defends, is super quick and really tough.

Scouting report on Will Bynum



60. DETROIT PISTONS
Alan Anderson
MICHIGAN STATE | SENIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 22
He was a star in Chicago because of his ability to get to the line and score. He defends and is the type of player the Pistons like. Too bad he can't shoot.

Scouting report on Andrew Bynum



Other potential draftees: Filiberto Rivera, UTEP; Chris Thomas, Notre Dame; Aaron Miles, Kansas; Orien Green, Louisiana-Lafayette; Marcelo Huertas, Brazil; Cenk Akyol, Turkey; Von Wafer, Florida State; Kelenna Azubuike, Kentucky; Bracey Wright, Indiana; Tiras Wade, Louisiana-Lafayette; Nikolaos Zissis, Greece; Alex Acker, Pepperdine; Jackie Manuel, North Carolina; Milan Majstorovic, Serbia; Dijon Thompson, UCLA; Mindaugas Katelynas, UT-Chattanooga; Jawad Williams, North Carolina; Eddie Basden, Charlotte; Quemont Greer, DePaul; Mike Bell, Florida Atlantic; Omar Thomas, UTEP; Stefano Mancinelli, Italy; Erazem Lorbek, Skipper Bologna (Italy); Lawrence Roberts, Mississippi State; Chevon Troutman, Pittsburgh; Ivan McFarlin, Oklahoma State; Jeremiah Massey, Kansas State; Chuck Hayes, Kentucky; Taylor Coppenrath, Vermont; Juan Mendez, Niagara; Drago Pasalic, Croatia; Uros Slokar, Slovenia; Mustafa Al-Sayyad, Fresno State; D'or Fischer, West Virginia; Mohammed Kone, Southern Idaho (juco); Edu Hernandez-Sonseca, Spain; Luke Schenscher, Georgia Tech; Matt Nelson, Colorado State; Ioannis Bourousis, AEK (Greece); Moussa Badiane, East Carolina; Milan Pupovic, Serbia; Rob Rothbart, France; and Ante Tomic, Croatia.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 05:47 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
ugh. i hate the blazer management. i know they are somehow going to <font color="black">[censored]</font> this up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, they already made the trade down with Utah, so that's a good start (no sarcasm)

[/ QUOTE ]

Did you see how many picks they got for that trade down? In a draft like this, with so much mediocre talent between 5 and 25, this was a great trade.

[/ QUOTE ]

I like the trade for both sides. The Jazz get their premier PG that they wouldn't have got at 5 (assuming they think that Brown/Paul are way superior to the rest) and the Blazers get a bunch of quality picks.

llabb
06-28-2005, 05:53 PM
The Lakers better not let Felton slip! They desperately need a PG! Argh, Mitch Cupcake always screws everything up. Worst. GM. In the entire freaking league.

There were so many trade possibilities - at one point they were the ones trading with Portland for the 3rd, and at another, they were trading with Indiana for Bender and the 17th, which would yield May or Bynum.

I'm preparing myself to be disappointed already. Lakers' mgmt sucks.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 05:55 PM
[ QUOTE ]
The Lakers better not let Felton slip! They desperately need a PG! Argh, Mitch Cupcake always screws everything up. Worst. GM. In the entire freaking league.

There were so many trade possibilities - at one point they were the ones trading with Portland for the 3rd, and at another, they were trading with Indiana for Bender and the 17th, which would yield May or Bynum.

I'm preparing myself to be disappointed already. Lakers' mgmt sucks.

[/ QUOTE ]

At least you don't have Isiah Thomas running the show /images/graemlins/grin.gif

llabb
06-28-2005, 06:07 PM
Thomas has arguably made much better moves than Cupcake. I wouldn't want him either, but he's probably preferable to Kupchak, as pathetic as that is.

After St. Jean was run out of Golden State, Kupchak seized the Worst GM in the League crown. No one has made worse moves. Plenty of fans of other teams also have legitimate gripes about their mgmt, and LA has no right to complain overall, with all of the past success.

But a drunk monkey could have done Cupcake's job better than him. The franchise's future has been in decline ever since Jerry West was run out of town. LA was on their way to a dynasty based on West's brilliant moves, and Kupchak destroyed that all. If you believe inside reports, there was a decent chance Kobe would have bailed even after Shaq was traded, and West was the savior who convinced Kobe to stay. Can you imagine how completely miserable LA would be without EITHER Kobe or Shaq?

[censored]
06-28-2005, 07:26 PM
Yes I agree, I am prepared to be pissed off in a little while. I think the odds are incredibly high that the Lakers blow this draft.

2+2 wannabe
06-28-2005, 07:31 PM
how long is each team on the clock?

when does the draft actually start?

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 07:39 PM
I'll go on record and say that I think Andrew Bogut will turn out to be a poor 1st pick, and the Bucks will regret it. Here's hoping he proves me wrong.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 07:42 PM
[ QUOTE ]
how long is each team on the clock?

when does the draft actually start?

[/ QUOTE ]

5 mins I think. 10 mins ago.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 07:44 PM
Thank Christ we got Marvin.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 07:48 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Thank Christ we got Marvin.

[/ QUOTE ]

Good pick I think. I like what the Hawks are putting together right now and disagree with Dick V.

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 07:53 PM
I think Utah just made a huge mistake not taking Paul or Felton.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 07:59 PM
Felton number 5?! Whoa!

ceyoung
06-28-2005, 07:59 PM
the play by play live analysis is pretty cool. im surprised they arent holding back anything with all the players there. i.e. Jay Bilas saying "Felton went too high."

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 08:07 PM
I just want to say that ESPN continues to spin it's web of lies calling Felton the all-time leading scorer in SC history. That would be Zam Frederick, who finished his career with 3,481 points

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 08:09 PM
Thats par for Bilas, he always downgrades UNC players.

Charlotte needed everything, PG is the key position in the NBA now, can they really afford to pass on him and he not be there at thier later pick.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:10 PM
Just checking in right now, to catch up with the draft. By the book so far, except for Felton going higher than expected, but understandable. Channing Frye and Hakim Warrick will be 2 of the next 3 picks, not sure who the 3rd is. Then the Lakers pick. Please let Gerald Green slip, please oh please oh please! That's the one pick Cupcake cannot screw up. I am fearful of anything else.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:13 PM
Yes!!! Villanueva taken! Go Lakers and Green!

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:13 PM
Well that's the Raptors for ya. This is good for the Lakers

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:14 PM
YEESSS! Raptors went crazy! Knicks can't possibly screw this up!

Edit: I want Green. [censored] Frye.

MoreWineII
06-28-2005, 08:15 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I'll go on record and say that I think Andrew Bogut will turn out to be a poor 1st pick, and the Bucks will regret it. Here's hoping he proves me wrong.

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree with you. I haven't seen him play a ton but in every interview I've seen or read he comes across like kind of a boner.

Also gangly white centers haven't had a ton of success in the NBA to this point.

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 08:16 PM
LOL. Villanueva. Raptors are bunch of morans.

MoreWineII
06-28-2005, 08:16 PM
[ QUOTE ]
LOL. Villanueva. Raptors are morans.

[/ QUOTE ]

f'reals, what the hell was that?

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:17 PM
Yup, Toronto's screwup helps NY as well. You can breathe easy with Frye, after shipping Kurt Thomas out.

NY actually has some potential, if some coach can get Marbury to mature.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:18 PM
Crap.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:20 PM
I still wanted Green, even if we have 12 small forwards. I have a feeling he's going to be something special. Lets see if the Lakers let him slip.

Edit: I do realize that Frye was the smart pick, and I'm not unhappy with it.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 08:21 PM
Seriously. WTF Toronto. If you keep drafting like this you can forget about my boy Jarrett.

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 08:22 PM
Frye was lock city.

I wonder how the Lakers are gonna go.

May? Bynum? Vazquez? Diogu?

I read at one ofthe draft sites they are drooling for Bynum because of the body, but unsure of how much of a project he might be.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:23 PM
Okay, Golden St., take a big man, I don't care which. Hakim Warrick, Ike Diogu, whoever. Granger maybe. Just leave Green for the Lakers!

DontRaisePlz
06-28-2005, 08:23 PM
I hope the Lakers get Granger.

I can't imagine them taking a high schooler when Phil probably isn't going to be around that long.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:24 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Seriously. WTF Toronto. If you keep drafting like this you can forget about my boy Jarrett.

[/ QUOTE ]

The only thing I can think of is that they have some kind of funky trade planned, but even that doesn't make much sense. This seems like an inconceivable screw up.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:28 PM
I do not care about Phil's system. Lakers ain't winnin' spit the next two years. I expect them to make the playoffs, and think there's a tiny chance they could win one round as long as they don't have to play SA or Pho. But they need another potential superstar, not an immediate impact role player.

They better stinkin' pick Green. But you never know with Cucpake, the worst GM in the league.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:30 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I do not care about Phil's system. Lakers ain't winnin' spit the next two years. I expect them to make the playoffs, and think there's a tiny chance they could win one round as long as they don't have to play SA or Pho. But they need another potential superstar, not an immediate impact role player.

They better stinkin' pick Green. But you never know with Cucpake, the worst GM in the league.

[/ QUOTE ]

Seriously I could get excited about Kobe &amp; Green in a few years.

bugstud
06-28-2005, 08:31 PM
bynum...WHOOPS

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:31 PM
No! No! No! No!

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:31 PM
lol. Projected 22 pick.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:32 PM
AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MITCH FREAKING CUPCAKE
SUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKSSSSS
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
SSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DontRaisePlz
06-28-2005, 08:32 PM
*Vomit*

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 08:35 PM
[ QUOTE ]


I read at one ofthe draft sites they are drooling for Bynum because of the body, but unsure of how much of a project he might be.

[/ QUOTE ]

I didn't think they would really take him. LOL.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:35 PM
Seriosly WTF. Atleast trade down 3-4 spots and pick up some value. This is [censored] bullshit. In the words of Too Short motherfuckshitgodamnedasshole

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 08:35 PM
I know you're pissed, but come on man, you're stretching the windows. /images/graemlins/tongue.gif

The more [censored] up picks, the more I hope Jack will slip to the Hawks in the 2nd round. Come on Jarrett!!! Stay in A-Town!!!

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:37 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]


I read at one ofthe draft sites they are drooling for Bynum because of the body, but unsure of how much of a project he might be.

[/ QUOTE ]

I didn't think they would really take him. LOL.

[/ QUOTE ]

Man seeing Mitch is really pissing me the [censored] off. I am [censored] steaming right now. role the dice? WTF its the goddamned 10th pick. [censored] fuckkknp
cf'ADplDV'SIODSjfSJkldvLKNSVKLDVJNkldfnvjkLD
SNVlkdsNVkldSNVlkdSNVkldsNvckldsNFVckldsvlkdzNVkld nvlkdkldNVlkdzsnvlkdzNvkldsnvlkdsNVKLDznvlkdavckld n

DontRaisePlz
06-28-2005, 08:37 PM
It's time to crawl into my shell of optimism. Let's nickname this kid Baby Shaq.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:45 PM
How does Cupcake have a job?! If any Laker fans here go to a game, you must start a "Fi-re Kup-chak" chant every chance you get.

I cannot describe how pissed I am. Bynum would have been the 27th pick if the Lakers passed on him, cf. the most recent ESPN mock. Make a freaking trade for an additional lower-round pick, Kupchak. Do not make a complete mockery of the 10th pick. This is worse than Toronto's pick. What did I say, worst GM in the league? Make that WORST. GM. EVER.

Anyone listening to LA local radio also heard Baron Davis' direct quote that he wanted to and expected to become a Laker, and the deal was close to done, but for some reason, the Lakers passed, and he went to GS instead. Because Mitch Kupchak didn't want him. How effing INCOMPETENT can you be?!



Apologies for stretching the windows. Almost broke my own windows, though!

Btw, decent pick by Orlando. Tough, physical defender and rebounder and good complement to Howard.

Edit: Fixed the earlier post so it won't stretch the windows. If censored is able to move and isn't lying prone in shock at Cupcake's stupidity, he can fix his as well, and the windows should return to normal.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:46 PM
I'm really suprised Green and Granger have fallen this far. Good news for some of the later drafting teams.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:47 PM
Same old Dick Vitale.

DontRaisePlz
06-28-2005, 08:48 PM
There's no gaurantee he'd be at 27th. There are many mocks that have him in the lottery, ESPN isn't the final word on everything.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:49 PM
I'm loving Stephen A. right now. Seriously.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:50 PM
Great pick for Charolette IMO.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:51 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I'm loving Stephen A. right now. Seriously.

[/ QUOTE ]

Agreed. I was thinking the same thing.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:51 PM
I don't like Sean May going to the Bobcats. They already have a young star power forward.

ClassicBob
06-28-2005, 08:51 PM
How far does Green fall?

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:52 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I don't like Sean May going to the Bobcats. They already have a young star power forward.

[/ QUOTE ]

Plenty of room down low for both of them.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 08:53 PM
[ QUOTE ]
How far does Green fall?

[/ QUOTE ]

Not far IMO. Min perhaps.

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 08:54 PM
If they really wanted him I guess its a good pick, it might be a little high, as a Charlotte fan though, I'll take it.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 08:55 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I don't like Sean May going to the Bobcats. They already have a young star power forward.

[/ QUOTE ]

Plenty of room down low for both of them.

[/ QUOTE ]

I guess so. It's definitely a steal, I just think they would have been better served getting a running partner for Felton.

llabb
06-28-2005, 08:58 PM
censored, see my above posts that I edited. If you fix your too, it will please the forum.

Can you believe that Cupcake PURPOSELY passed on Baron?

Good Min pick, since Sprewell will be gone.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 09:00 PM
</font><blockquote><font class="small">En réponse à:</font><hr />
I just think they would have been better served getting a running partner for Felton.

[/ QUOTE ]

Keith Bogans. Mark it down.

Phoenix1010
06-28-2005, 09:05 PM
I felt like McCants was one of the five strongest players in the draft, as far as talent goes. The problem was that he seems like he's going to be the next Paul Pierce: an incredible talent that never reaches his full potential because of attitude problems. I think having Kevin Garnett on his team will be an tremendous help to him, and he's going to be a star. Also, he's the perfect successor to Spree. That was a great pick for everyone involved.

justin D
06-28-2005, 09:22 PM
The Celtics just got the steal of the draft. What a great day!

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:23 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Felton number 5?! Whoa!

[/ QUOTE ]

I like the pick. Charlotte needs a PG and if they didn't take him, it's likely that the Lakers would've.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:24 PM
[ QUOTE ]
YEESSS! Raptors went crazy! Knicks can't possibly screw this up!

Edit: I want Green. [censored] Frye.

[/ QUOTE ]

Frye cannot possibly play 5 in the NBA. I'm SO HAPPY with Green. Kid is nasstty. BTW, there was that big guy who was taken that's 17. He's 3 months older than me lol.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:27 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I don't like Sean May going to the Bobcats. They already have a young star power forward.

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree that it probably wasn't the best pick (I would've gone with McCants), but winners seem to be their drafting theme, and May is a great winner.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:28 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I felt like McCants was one of the five strongest players in the draft, as far as talent goes. The problem was that he seems like he's going to be the next Paul Pierce: an incredible talent that never reaches his full potential because of attitude problems. I think having Kevin Garnett on his team will be an tremendous help to him, and he's going to be a star. Also, he's the perfect successor to Spree. That was a great pick for everyone involved.

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree with this.

Side note: I think Bird picked Granger just to piss off Ainge. I'm VERY happy with Green though.

pudley4
06-28-2005, 09:29 PM
[ QUOTE ]
I felt like McCants was one of the five strongest players in the draft, as far as talent goes. The problem was that he seems like he's going to be the next Paul Pierce: an incredible talent that never reaches his full potential because of attitude problems. I think having Kevin Garnett on his team will be an tremendous help to him, and he's going to be a star. Also, he's the perfect successor to Spree. That was a great pick for everyone involved.

[/ QUOTE ]

meh.

I'd rather have Granger or (especially) Graham.

KingDan
06-28-2005, 09:31 PM
As a Net fan, I hated our pick (Wright)as we already have Jefferson and Vince Carter at his position.

I'm hoping they have some sort of handshake deal with Rahim (sp? otherwise this just blows.

MCS
06-28-2005, 09:33 PM
http://photos1.blogger.com/img/47/4340/640/Julius%20UConn1.jpg

Hodge to the Nuggets.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:34 PM
[ QUOTE ]
As a Net fan, I hated our pick (Wright)as we already have Jefferson and Vince Carter at his position.

I'm hoping they have some sort of handshake deal with Rahim (sp? otherwise this just blows.

[/ QUOTE ]

I dunno. Who could the Nets have taken? All the players in that area were 2's and 3's. Did you want Petro?

KingDan
06-28-2005, 09:39 PM
I was thinking Granger was 6-9 and PF, not a small forward. That [censored] everything up.

Maybe trade down? Hope to get Simeon later?

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 09:42 PM
Whoa, the Knicks draft looks a lot better if they really are dealing Thomas for Q and now Nate Robinson.

MCS
06-28-2005, 09:45 PM
HODGE AND JACK ON THE SAME TEAM
HOLY CRAP
I NOW LOVE THE NUGGETS

(I graduated from NCSU and go to GT now.)

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:47 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Whoa, the Knicks draft looks a lot better if they really are dealing Thomas for Q and now Nate Robinson.

[/ QUOTE ]

Why? Robertson won't get much PT there and Q is just another 3 (albeit a good one). They needed a big man and IMO Frye isn't a big enough body.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 09:48 PM
Nuggets did an amazing job drafting. Holy crap, I can't believe they just pulled both of those picks off.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 09:49 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Nuggets did an amazing job drafting. Holy crap, I can't believe they just pulled both of those picks off.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah they got some good guys. Hodge and Jack are going to be ready to contribute.

Clarkmeister
06-28-2005, 10:04 PM
LuLu to the Rockets. Sweet! Also contrats to Deron for working his way up the board to #3!

ILL-INI!

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 10:07 PM
Awww, come on. Don't send Jarrett off to Portland. Dammit.

IndieMatty
06-28-2005, 10:20 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Awww, come on. Don't send Jarrett off to Portland. Dammit.

[/ QUOTE ]

Who will the knicks PICK!!!

Blatche/Taft?


ESPN Radio in NY says Gomes at 30. Big [censored] boo.

MCS
06-28-2005, 10:21 PM
NOOOOOOOOOO.

Do not make Jarrett go to that cesspool.

Bad times /images/graemlins/frown.gif

IronDragon1
06-28-2005, 10:31 PM
The chorus of boos which greeted David Stern upon annoucing that David Lee was the Knick's pick=hillarious

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 10:32 PM
Screw projections. Come on Hawks, say it with me, "Louis Williams."

IndieMatty
06-28-2005, 10:33 PM
[ QUOTE ]
The chorus of boos which greeted David Stern upon annoucing that David Lee was the Knick's pick=hillarious

[/ QUOTE ]

WTF WAS THIS!?!?! A WHITE GUY! You can't draft a white guy.

MCS
06-28-2005, 10:36 PM
OMG the Hawks appear competent.

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 10:36 PM
Ok, Salim works too.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 10:36 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Ok, Salim works too.

[/ QUOTE ]

Salim is nasty. Nice pick.

Clarkmeister
06-28-2005, 10:39 PM
C'mon, the kid is 7 feet and 300 pounds. He's not a bad pick at all. You just don't know that he'd have been around. Look at Granger and Felton as examples that you just don't know what teams are really going to do.

IronDragon1
06-28-2005, 10:41 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
The chorus of boos which greeted David Stern upon annoucing that David Lee was the Knick's pick=hillarious

[/ QUOTE ]

WTF WAS THIS!?!?! A WHITE GUY! You can't draft a white guy.

[/ QUOTE ]

Unless it's Andrew Bogut or some Eastern Euro type

mmbt0ne
06-28-2005, 10:51 PM
I'm dangerously excited about a starting 5 of Salim, Childress, Smith, Williams and Generic-Big-Man.

[censored], that leaves Al Harrington out in the cold. Hmmm, maybe he can be trade bait and we can get a center worth something (read: not Kevin Willis)

MCS
06-28-2005, 11:00 PM
Yeah, I've just been assuming they're trading Al Harrington.

llabb
06-28-2005, 11:00 PM
Yeah, I'm not knocking Bynum. He's young and has a chance to develop, can't teach size, blah blah blah. Let's just say that my reactions were predicated on:

1) I really wanted Green, who has amazing potential, and would have been considered a steal even at 10.
2) There are so many busts out of the "big men with potential" category.
3) Cupcake has continually demonstrated he does not know what he's doing. No reason whatsoever to believe he can make a competent pick; his past history has been absolutely utterly horrible.

I now have to just hope that Bynum does indeed turn into something special in a couple years. I'm good with the Round 2 Turiaf pick. He's big, he's tough and he can rebound, all of which the Lakers really need.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 11:01 PM
Great pick by Raptors. Ukic is talented.

Clarkmeister
06-28-2005, 11:02 PM
I think you should be glad he *didn't* pick the headcase. You need a C more anyways. Good fit, similar upside, better demeanor. I like it.

llabb
06-28-2005, 11:07 PM
Yeah, good pick. I wish the Lakers had taken Ucic instead of this von Wafer guy. Or maybe Blatche or Taft.

llabb
06-28-2005, 11:16 PM
Drafting based on position/need instead of best player available is a mistake in the lottery. History bears this out.

2nd round, even late first round, positional drafting is okay. Just not at the #10 pick.

Anyway, the jury is out for another 3+ years, so it'll be a long time before we can really evaluate what the correct play was.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 11:23 PM
AND ANOTHER GREAT PICK!!!

xadrez
06-28-2005, 11:26 PM
The celtics are killing this draft.

when i say kill i mean theyre doing well.

xadrez
06-28-2005, 11:28 PM
2 best picks so far for value were 17 and 18

Indiana - Granger
Boston - Green

I cant believe these two fell so far. Granger is going to be great. Kind of disheartening to hear hes a jehovahs witness though.

Clarkmeister
06-28-2005, 11:33 PM
[ QUOTE ]
2 best picks so far for value were 17 and 18

Indiana - Granger
Boston - Green

I cant believe these two fell so far. Granger is going to be great. Kind of disheartening to hear hes a jehovahs witness though.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, as opposed to a druggie or a gangsta.

Sheesh.

tbach24
06-28-2005, 11:39 PM
Damn, I was a big Roberts fan. We should've taken him and Gilcrest over our two guys.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 11:40 PM
[ QUOTE ]
C'mon, the kid is 7 feet and 300 pounds. He's not a bad pick at all. You just don't know that he'd have been around. Look at Granger and Felton as examples that you just don't know what teams are really going to do.

[/ QUOTE ]

Name the last 7fter who has suprised. These guys are either known studs or over projected busts. It doesnt take much to get a lot of run as a 7fter, look at Curry and Kwame Brown as examples. Please! This pick at 10 overall has waste written all over it.

Clarkmeister
06-28-2005, 11:42 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
C'mon, the kid is 7 feet and 300 pounds. He's not a bad pick at all. You just don't know that he'd have been around. Look at Granger and Felton as examples that you just don't know what teams are really going to do.

[/ QUOTE ]

Name the last 7fter who has suprised. These guys are either known studs or over projected busts. It doesnt take much to get a lot of run as a 7fter, look at Curry and Kwame Brown as examples. Please! This pick at 10 overall has waste written all over it.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, since they are projected as studs, then by definition they are studs or overprojected busts. So not sure what your point is.

Curry still could be awesome if his heart is ok.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 11:43 PM
[ QUOTE ]
Granger is going to be great. Kind of disheartening to hear hes a jehovahs witness though.

[/ QUOTE ]

What? why would that matter?

xadrez
06-28-2005, 11:45 PM
Wow, I was just joking guys.

This draft sure is firing people up

Rob Blackburn
06-28-2005, 11:46 PM
This second round has really gone wacky.

I think all the teams are trying to save money wiht these picks, alot of guys who won't make teams or will be left in Europe.

[censored]
06-28-2005, 11:50 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
C'mon, the kid is 7 feet and 300 pounds. He's not a bad pick at all. You just don't know that he'd have been around. Look at Granger and Felton as examples that you just don't know what teams are really going to do.

[/ QUOTE ]

Name the last 7fter who has suprised. These guys are either known studs or over projected busts. It doesnt take much to get a lot of run as a 7fter, look at Curry and Kwame Brown as examples. Please! This pick at 10 overall has waste written all over it.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, since they are projected as studs, then by definition they are studs or overprojected busts. So not sure what your point is.

Curry still could be awesome if his heart is ok.

[/ QUOTE ]


I'm saying that it doesn't take very much to get these guys (7ft+) for these guys to be projected at the top or near the top of the draft. Curry and Brown being examples (I'm not criticizing their skills, and Curry is fine). Thus when a HS prospect who is 7ft tall is projected as being a late 1st rounded he is much more likely to be the typical 7ft bust which there are many of.

If the Lakers had drafted him late there would be no problem but the #10 pick, when the franchise is at its lowest point in decades is no time to as Kupchick said "roll the dice" which is exactly what this pick was. Going against the odds and hoping a gamble pays off. Absolutely retarded but really no suprise. I knew they would blow this pick. The Lakers have not drafted well since West left but they were winning so it didn't much matter.

god damn I'm so [censored] pissed right now. KLHKL:JHKJHLKJHKLJHKJ

Clarkmeister
06-29-2005, 12:36 AM
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

tbach24
06-29-2005, 12:41 AM
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

I really don't know much about him, but the few times I saw him he looked great. I think if we talk UNC guys, McCants is where it's at. A little undersized at 2, but he can flatout play.

Clarkmeister
06-29-2005, 12:45 AM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

I really don't know much about him, but the few times I saw him he looked great. I think if we talk UNC guys, McCants is where it's at. A little undersized at 2, but he can flatout play.

[/ QUOTE ]

Super dooper a-holes almost never succeed.

Phoenix1010
06-29-2005, 12:49 AM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

I really don't know much about him, but the few times I saw him he looked great. I think if we talk UNC guys, McCants is where it's at. A little undersized at 2, but he can flatout play.

[/ QUOTE ]

Super dooper a-holes almost never succeed.

[/ QUOTE ]

Under the right circumstances, they can be great. Ron Artest and Rasheed Wallace are great examples.

Phoenix1010
06-29-2005, 12:54 AM
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't follow college basketball too much. If he's as great as they say, why did he get so little playing time at UNC? I understand that they had a strong line up and he was a freshman, but it seems like a guy who's being talked about as a lock for a top 2 pick in the NBA draft should be a major force on any college team. As I understand it, Carmello Anthony was a freshmen two years ago and carried his team to the national title.

Clarkmeister
06-29-2005, 12:57 AM
Never thought of Sheed as an a-hole. hmmmmmmm

mmbt0ne
06-29-2005, 01:02 AM
He was a force. I saw us play 2 games against him, and saw countless others between NC and random ACC teams. He's not a 6th man by skill, he's a 6th man because he was willing to be, and the seniors/juniors on the team already had chemistry.

He's a freak, and I expect him to be a stud in a few years.

Aytumious
06-29-2005, 02:39 AM
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

There is no way he ever is the rebounder or defender that Marion is. Marion is just a freak in that regard for a 6-7 SF.

Aytumious
06-29-2005, 02:44 AM
[ QUOTE ]
He was a force. I saw us play 2 games against him, and saw countless others between NC and random ACC teams. He's not a 6th man by skill, he's a 6th man because he was willing to be, and the seniors/juniors on the team already had chemistry.

He's a freak, and I expect him to be a stud in a few years.

[/ QUOTE ]

Williams is certainly very skilled but he's not a freak if compared to a guy like Lebby, Garnett, or Kobe. He's really not the ultra athlete some people make him out to be. His vert is only 1.5 inches more than Bogut.

pmuir10
06-29-2005, 05:52 AM
[ QUOTE ]
Lebby

[/ QUOTE ]

uhh, please dont ever use this knickname again.

Aytumious
06-29-2005, 06:39 AM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Lebby

[/ QUOTE ]

uhh, please dont ever use this knickname again.

[/ QUOTE ]

Lebby, lebby, lebby. What's a knickname?

goofball
06-29-2005, 08:20 AM
[ QUOTE ]
Never thought of Sheed as an a-hole. hmmmmmmm

[/ QUOTE ]

he isn't. h ehas anger management issues on the court, but i remember his doing some pretty good things off the court in ptown.

MoreWineII
06-29-2005, 10:39 AM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Never thought of Sheed as an a-hole. hmmmmmmm

[/ QUOTE ]

he isn't. h ehas anger management issues on the court, but i remember his doing some pretty good things off the court in ptown.

[/ QUOTE ]

As a Portlander, I wouldn't call him an a-hole. Just really immature for his age with occasional incredibly inappropriate lapses in judgement.

Great community guy though, would do anything for kids.

MoreWineII
06-29-2005, 10:55 AM
[ QUOTE ]
NOOOOOOOOOO.

Do not make Jarrett go to that cesspool.

Bad times /images/graemlins/frown.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Apparently, the rest of the country (including the ESPN "experts") doesn't realize what's going on here.

The next 3-4 years are a wash. Expectations are zero. The team has conceded it, the fans have accepted it. The idiots looking for "someone to step in immediately" have their heads up their asses. This team is being built with an eye for future. You'll see the crappy overpriced FA's we've signed slowly disappear one by one and be replaced by young guys with good attitudes.

That's why the Blazers passed on Green. Blowing off a workout because you don't want to do ballhandling and defensive drills against Nate Robinson is not good way to make an impression on a team that's very sensitive to image right now. Picking a guy with any attitude questions was not gonna fly.

Did they pass on a superstar? Maybe. But I think a player's head has a lot more to do with success than most so I don't think so, I see Green as a Jerry Stackhouse kind of guy. Great skills, puts up good numbers, but never really quite puts it all together.

And Jarrett won't replace Telfair. This team has hitched its wagon to Telfair, and rightfully so I think. There aren't any "doubts" about that. But I do think he's got an opportunity to really make some headway here. These young guys are going to get a loooot of playing time since we're basically playing for nothing for at least 3 years.

Jarrett's pretty much the total opposite of Telfair and that gives the team some options. I think both Jarrett and Webster will see plenty of floor time next year.

This draft was a major test for this franchise and I really like what they accomplished yesterday, the fans here are definitely satisfied for the most part.

Phoenix1010
06-29-2005, 02:58 PM
The Sports Guy article on the draft on ESPN.com is incredibly funny, and I agree with just about every word of it.

Aytumious
06-29-2005, 03:19 PM
[ QUOTE ]
The Sports Guy article on the draft on ESPN.com is incredibly funny, and I agree with just about every word of it.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, some of it is just great stuff.

MCS
06-29-2005, 03:48 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Marvin williams: super star or just a very good player? Can he play D like Shawn Marion?

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't follow college basketball too much. If he's as great as they say, why did he get so little playing time at UNC?

[/ QUOTE ]

He actually got a fair amount of playing time, like 22 minutes a game. The explanation is basically that UNC had some established upperclassmen and he was willing to come off the bench and not make waves. Internal turmoil is something that team in particular needed to avoid.

When he did play, his points per minute and rebounds per minute stats were terrific.

Carmelo wasn't the only good player on Syracuse in 2003 either. I actually think he gets a little too much credit for that title, as great as he was.

mmbt0ne
06-29-2005, 04:01 PM
</font><blockquote><font class="small">En réponse à:</font><hr />
And Jarrett won't replace Telfair. This team has hitched its wagon to Telfair, and rightfully so I think.

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't know. One reason Telfair didn't commit to GT was because he wasn't going to get much playing time behind Jack. People are seriously underestimating Jarrett, IMO. He lead a team better than Paul (MUCH better), and beat better teams with less to work with than the other PGs. The only other one who can take over a game is Deron. Felton and Paul just don't have that ability to make a game their own in the final minutes.

He's a winner baby.

IndieMatty
06-29-2005, 04:45 PM
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Awww, come on. Don't send Jarrett off to Portland. Dammit.

[/ QUOTE ]

Who will the knicks PICK!!!

Blatche/Taft?


ESPN Radio in NY says Gomes at 30. Big [censored] boo.

[/ QUOTE ]


I take back all my thoughts on last nights draft. The more I read about these players (after frye I barely knew anything) the more I love this draft.

Look at this Nate pic!!! Awesome.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/dayart/20040129/450huskies30_robinson_jt.jpg

nolanfan34
06-29-2005, 04:53 PM
That pic is of not just a dunk, but a tip-in rebound dunk. He had some huge dunks against Oregon too. Nate's problem is an inconsistent handle and jumper.

As for the Sports Guy, I figured he and his dad must have been going nuts when Green fell to them.

But how did he not comment on Granger being a Jehovas Witness?

IndieMatty
06-29-2005, 04:56 PM
[ QUOTE ]
That pic is of not just a dunk, but a tip-in rebound dunk. He had some huge dunks against Oregon too. Nate's problem is an inconsistent handle and jumper.

As for the Sports Guy, I figured he and his dad must have been going nuts when Green fell to them.

But how did he not comment on Granger being a Jehovas Witness?

[/ QUOTE ]

New SG Draft Diary is up?! I'm saving this for the subway ride home. I can't wait.

Oh I found a video of him dunking (almost on Frye) on a sick alley oop pass. Zip is clean, it's a mpeg.

I need to make this into a gif.

sick alley oop (http://dailygames.net/knicks/)

MoreWineII
06-29-2005, 05:08 PM
Hey if he can beat out Telfair, more power to him. I think the Blazer's brass secretly want those two to beat the [censored] out of each other in practice, it'll improve both their games.

MoreWineII
06-29-2005, 05:10 PM
I think he saved up his load for Oregon after all the shenanigans those two programs went though with each other.

I'm a Duck fan, but I'm still a big Nate fan. I hope he flourishes in this league.

You gotta admit though, chanting "Gary Coleman" to him is funny.

oneeye13
06-29-2005, 07:45 PM
how does coppenrath not get picked?