2006 NBA Draft/Offseason Thread

[Groundhog]

The lottery results are in:

1. Toronto Raptors
2. Chicago Bulls (Thanks NY!)
3. Charlotte Bobcats
4. Portland Trailblazers
5. Atlanta Hawks
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
7. Boston Celtics
8. Houston Rockets
9. Golden State Warriors
10. Seattle Sonics
11. Orlando Magic
12. New Orleans Hornets
13. Philadelphia 76ers
14. Utah Jazz

Everyone is saying that this is a draft where it might be better to be picking from the 6-10 spot than the 1-5 because there is no consensus over the #1 player, but I don't buy that at all. There are a couple of players I really think will be solid; maybe not LeBron/Carmello/Dwayne solid, but solid. I think it is a deep draft though, just not as top heavy as most GMs would like. This should change for the better starting next year now that High Schoolers have to spend a year in college.

Having said that though, what are the Raptors going to do? Bosh and Charlie V are their forwards, and there are no guards or centers worth taking that high. If I ran the Raptors I'd be moving that pick for a guard and a lower pick in the top 10. Perhaps off to Minnesota for their selection this year, McCants, and maybe a future pick? Or maybe see if you can get Joe Johnson from Atlanta?

Chicago have a pretty easy task in my opinion, and just need to take Aldridge - assuming he is available. A lot of people would probably say to take Tyrus Thomas, but there is something about the guy that just doesn't sit well with me. I saw every one of LSU's tourney games, and not once did I find myself thinking "this guy is a future #1 selection". I didn't even think him the best player on his roster.

[vex]

Was really hoping the Hornets could move up a few spots, but oh well. The front office has said there is a possibility of packaging the #12 and #15 picks they have this year to move up, if they find someone worth moving up, that is.

[vex]

Dola

Oh, and Portland got screwed.

[vex]

Double Dola

Hopefully the Hornets tank this season so they can get Oden :P

[miami_fan]

I have a helluva lot more confidence in Colangelo running this draft for the Raptors than Babcock. That being said I think you have to trade down. I don't expect the Hawks to move Johnson at all.

[sovereignstar]

Dola

Oh, and Portland got screwed.

it's a lottery

[Groundhog]

Should be interesting to see what the Bobcats do, too. I imagine they are going to be hoping Morrison falls in their laps, which he should. In my opinion Morrison should go #1, but there is no way he will.

[vex]

it's a lottery

Just sayin.

[Groundhog]

Double Dola

Hopefully the Hornets tank this season so they can get Oden :P

I wonder what people will say if Oden averages just 10 points and 8 rebounds at Ohio State? Will he still go #1? Who knows how he will do at the college level. I often wonder how Kwame Brown would have done actually. I find it very difficult to believe he would have gone #1 after a year of college, though.

[sterlingice]

Hope Eddie Curry was worth the #2 pick *snicker*

SI

[kingfc22]

I wonder what people will say if Oden averages just 10 points and 8 rebounds at Ohio State? Will he still go #1? Who knows how he will do at the college level. I often wonder how Kwame Brown would have done actually. I find it very difficult to believe he would have gone #1 after a year of college, though.

I agree with the Kwame statement and am very interested to see how Oden does this year.

[oykib]

F'in Knicks!

[Swaggs]

I don't know much about the NBA these days, but I have to think J.J. Reddick is a perfect fit for the Jerry Sloan and the Utah Jazz.

[Groundhog]

I don't know much about the NBA these days, but I have to think J.J. Reddick is a perfect fit for the Jerry Sloan and the Utah Jazz.

Agreed. He should still be around, too.

[vex]

Reddick might be a nice scoring threat to go along with Chris Paul for the Hornets as well.

[Neuqua]

Hope Eddie Curry was worth the #2 pick *snicker*


Don't forget the option of swapping picks with the Knicks next year too.

So there's a chance we traded Eddy Curry for the #2 pick and just maybe, Greg Oden.

:)

[SackAttack]

Hope Eddie Curry was worth the #2 pick *snicker*

SI

Chicago thought he was worth a #4 originally. ;)

[chinaski]

god damn right Portland got screwed, could they have mathematically ended up lower than #4? Being a Blazers fan is so miserable.

[digamma]

Please let Brandon Roy drop to the Hawks.

[vex]

god damn right Portland got screwed, could they have mathematically ended up lower than #4? Being a Blazers fan is so miserable.

They worst they could do was 4th, and well...

[chinaski]

They worst they could do was 4th, and well...

I guess its what we get for tanking the last month.... i swear we were tanking, yea thats it!

[Swaggs]

With my Big East sunglasses on, I think whoever gets Randy Foye and, especially, Rudy Gay will end up very happy.

I think Gay will end up one of the best 2-3 players in this draft. I have seen him play quite often and he is the best player on the court most of the time. If he plays on a team with good leadership, he can be really special.

[sovereignstar]

I think Gay will end up one of the best 2-3 players in this draft. I have seen him play quite often and he is the best player on the court most of the time. If he plays on a team with good leadership, he can be really special.

I think the T-Wolves will do whatever it takes to make sure Rudy Gay is on their team next year.

[Swaggs]

I think the T-Wolves will do whatever it takes to make sure Rudy Gay is on their team next year.

I think that would be a good fit. I don't follow the NBA as closely as I used to, but I imagine he would be the most talented offensive teammate that Garnett has ever had. I could easily see him winning Rookie of the Year for the T-Wolves.

[Schmidty]

Reddick will be the next Trajan Langdon. A superstar!!!!!


In Europe

[bbor]

Woohoo go Raps.

There must be a big man the Raps can get for the 1 pick.Could Mgloire be had for the pick?Is he worth the pick?

[Groundhog]

Reddick will be the next Trajan Langdon. A superstar!!!!!


In Europe

As a Cavs fan, I know the horror of Langdon first hand. Reddick is no Langdon though. Langdon was a straight spot-up shooter who could do little else. Reddick can actually move off the ball, and does it rather well.

[Groundhog]

Woohoo go Raps.

There must be a big man the Raps can get for the 1 pick.Could Mgloire be had for the pick?Is he worth the pick?

I'm sure Magloire could be quite easily had for the pick, though there is no way he is worth it.

[MrBug708]

As a Cavs fan, I know the horror of Langdon first hand. Reddick is no Langdon though. Langdon was a straight spot-up shooter who could do little else. Reddick can actually move off the ball, and does it rather well.

I've seen a couple of draft lists that have Farmar to the Cavs

[Groundhog]

I've seen a couple of draft lists that have Farmar to the Cavs

That's an interesting choice... Only saw one UCLA game last year and it was the championship game, but the only UCLA player that impressed me at all was Farmar. He played with a lot of energy and was the only Bruin who looked a threat to do anything. But he also played a little out of control and threw up some bad shots, but it's not like anyone else was giving him much of a reason to pass. If he's there when we select, I'd say it was a decent pick up.

[stevew]

Was really hoping the Hornets could move up a few spots, but oh well. The front office has said there is a possibility of packaging the #12 and #15 picks they have this year to move up, if they find someone worth moving up, that is.
With the hornets, they only had the chance to move to 1, 2, or 3... when you are in their position, it's impossible, to move, to say #10.

[stevew]

I wonder what people will say if Oden averages just 10 points and 8 rebounds at Ohio State? Will he still go #1? Who knows how he will do at the college level. I often wonder how Kwame Brown would have done actually. I find it very difficult to believe he would have gone #1 after a year of college, though.

How about Diop. He averaged something like 10 and 8 in HS, and went #8 overall. That fall he was scheduled to be a reserve energy big man at Virginia. There's little chance he ever would have gone as high as #8 if he went to college and was exposed. He seems to be making an okay career out of it this year, I suppose.

[stevew]

I think the T-Wolves will do whatever it takes to make sure Rudy Gay is on their team next year.

Trade KG? Hypothetically, if you get offered the #2 pick in the Draft, Tyson Chandler and Ben Gordon/Deng(one of them), do you at least think about moving KG for that?

[MrBug708]

That's an interesting choice... Only saw one UCLA game last year and it was the championship game, but the only UCLA player that impressed me at all was Farmar. He played with a lot of energy and was the only Bruin who looked a threat to do anything. But he also played a little out of control and threw up some bad shots, but it's not like anyone else was giving him much of a reason to pass. If he's there when we select, I'd say it was a decent pick up.

He seems to have good potential, but does tend to play a bit out of control though. He's a great passer and plays very emotionally. Needs a better outside shot IMO. Of course, I'd love him to com eback for next year, but I think he's gone this year

[Groundhog]

How about Diop. He averaged something like 10 and 8 in HS, and went #8 overall. That fall he was scheduled to be a reserve energy big man at Virginia. There's little chance he ever would have gone as high as #8 if he went to college and was exposed. He seems to be making an okay career out of it this year, I suppose.

I never understood the craze about Diop even back then. He was one of those players that I thought "Gee, I'd hate to be a fan of the team that drafts this guy much higher than he deserves to be selected" and, of course, it was the Cavs that then proceeded to take him.

He has size, can block a few shots, and gives you 6 hard fouls... but that's about it. Muggsy Bogues had more devestating post moves than this guy. He did a decent job on Duncan in OT the other day, but I certainly don't miss him on our roster.

[Young Drachma]

I think David Stern is happy that the owners are not longer on the dole for big-time contracts to unproven HS kids. They'll take unproven college kids instead, thank you.

But I guess its only one year, so the risk-reward isn't huge for them. And there will be some kid eventually who is good enough to play in Europe for a year if he's not interested in college, figuring that might raise his stock.

But this is a pretty "meh" draft compared to past years. Should be interesting to see who shines out of it long-term.

[JeeberD]

I wonder what people will say if Oden averages just 10 points and 8 rebounds at Ohio State? Will he still go #1? Who knows how he will do at the college level. I often wonder how Kwame Brown would have done actually. I find it very difficult to believe he would have gone #1 after a year of college, though.


Didn't seem to hurt Marvin Williams' draft status too much...


There's a rumor out there that the Rockets are offering Stromile Swift and the #8 to the Bulls for the #2. The Bulls would have to be idiots to do it, but I would love to see the Rockets get a shot at Rudy Gay...

[stevew]

Didn't seem to hurt Marvin Williams' draft status too much...


There's a rumor out there that the Rockets are offering Stromile Swift and the #8 to the Bulls for the #2. The Bulls would have to be idiots to do it, but I would love to see the Rockets get a shot at Rudy Gay...

Trade up's in the NBA draft aren't as common as the NFL draft. And trading much of anything for Stro Swift would be a mistake, IMO.

[TroyF]

god damn right Portland got screwed, could they have mathematically ended up lower than #4? Being a Blazers fan is so miserable.


Lottery failures? You really want to talk about getting screwed in the lottery? The Nuggets spent a decadeout of the playoffs and never once had their draft position improved by the lottery.

Even the year they got Melo, the Nuggets were tied for the worst record in the league and ended up picking third. Ugh.

[stevew]

The Grizzlies were also noticeably screwed in the lottery. They were the worst team in the league several years in a row, and never got the #1 pick.

[vex]

The Grizzlies were also noticeably screwed in the lottery. They were the worst team in the league several years in a row, and never got the #1 pick.

That was because Vancouver and Toronto had a clause in their expansion that stated they couldn't pick higher than 5th for a few years, IIRC.

[Neon_Chaos]

god damn right Portland got screwed, could they have mathematically ended up lower than #4? Being a Blazers fan is so miserable.

Nope, #4 is as low as they would go.

The only picks that are up for grabs in the Lotto are pick 1,2 and 3.

Basically, Portland was outlucked on all 3 picks, and ended up going #4.

[sovereignstar]

Trade KG? Hypothetically, if you get offered the #2 pick in the Draft, Tyson Chandler and Ben Gordon/Deng(one of them), do you at least think about moving KG for that?

I don't think so. There's no reason to rush KG out the door unless you get maximum value (which I don't think the trade above has). Ricky Davis is the guy who is probably on the outs. I'd really like to see what Garnett-Gay-McCants could do. Or figure out a way to bring Allen Iverson into town...

[MrBug708]

If there was ever a year to be screwed in the draft, this was the year...

[stevew]

2003 has had at least 10-12 above average starters in it thus far.....that was the year to be screwed, if there was ever one.

[MrBug708]

Well, it's a lot more open, I am saying...Hindsight is much clearer of course

[Groundhog]

Nbadraft.net has their first post-lottery mock draft up. Here are the top picks:

1. Raptors - LaMarcus Aldridge
2. Bulls - Andrea Bargnani
3. Bobcats - Adam Morrison
4. Blazers - Tyrus Thomas

If things really go down like that I would be surprised. Firstly, pretty much all I've read has Aldridge as a PF, not a C, so the Raptors really don't need this guy at all. Secondly, I can imagine how happy Bulls fans would be with Bargnani - ie. Not very. Scouting report scares me more than anything, as he sounds more like a Nikoloz Tskitishvili than a Dirk Nowitzki, which is nbadraft.net's NBA comparison player. Bobcats would probably be thrilled to get Morrison, and Blazers would have to be happy with Thomas at #4 after their (lack of) luck in the lottery. Not sure how he would fit in to their plans with Zach around, though.

With the 25th pick it has my Cavs selecting Quincy Douby now. I can see why they would consider this guy - with LeBron being the only guy that can put the ball in the hoop for us and everything - but I just don't think he's a good selection. He could come off the bench and shoot the 3, but don't we already have Damon Jones to do that? I'd rather take a gamble with a true PG and see if we can't get someone with a few more dimensions to their game. Farmar, who I'm starting to really warm to, is listed as going to the Kings at at #19, though Rondo and Lowry are listed as being around. I'm not fond of Rondo, but Lowry looks to me like he could be a nice player. His biggest knock is his jumper, but I believe that if you want to win games you need well-rounded basketball players, not guys who can just shoot the ball (unless you have Phoenix's personell, which I still feel will flame out at some point these playoffs). Lowry looks more likely to be one of those guys to me.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Well the nbadraft.net mock is clearly wrong.

Any idiot knows that the Hawks will take the best available athlete who is a prototypical swingman.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Oops, accidental double post.

[Logan]

With the 25th pick it has my Cavs selecting Quincy Douby now. I can see why they would consider this guy - with LeBron being the only guy that can put the ball in the hoop for us and everything - but I just don't think he's a good selection. He could come off the bench and shoot the 3, but don't we already have Damon Jones to do that? I'd rather take a gamble with a true PG and see if we can't get someone with a few more dimensions to their game. Farmar, who I'm starting to really warm to, is listed as going to the Kings at at #19, though Rondo and Lowry are listed as being around. I'm not fond of Rondo, but Lowry looks to me like he could be a nice player. His biggest knock is his jumper, but I believe that if you want to win games you need well-rounded basketball players, not guys who can just shoot the ball (unless you have Phoenix's personell, which I still feel will flame out at some point these playoffs). Lowry looks more likely to be one of those guys to me.

I think Lowry would be a great pick, and I think its somewhat intriguing that he could be available for the Knicks at 20. Personally, I think he would make the Knicks forget about this whole #2 pick fiasco in a few years. I watched him a lot in the Big East. He's a scorer, he's a handler, and he's a competitor. He could play on my team anyday.

But onto Douby. I'm a Rutgers guy, so you can surely think I'm biased. But I think he will be an excellent pro, as he won't just be a 3 pt shooter. He'll have the ability to score from anywhere on the floor (literally...he could get his floater off in traffic or drain a 30 foot jumper). He's gotten better every year, and I don't doubt that he could play PG in the pros. It's hard to display your ball-handling skills when you're getting swarmed by 3 defenders since no one else on your team can score.

EDIT: And cnnsi.com's mock has him at 14 to Utah. Don't think he would really go that high, but good for him if he does.

[Logan]

Oops, accidental double post.

You should've left it...I think its okay to take 2 shots at the Hawks. It's like the Detroit-WR thing. Never gets old.

[miami_fan]

Well the nbadraft.net mock is clearly wrong.

Any idiot knows that the Hawks will take the best available athlete who is a prototypical swingman.
Or trading the pick for Allen Iverson?;)

[JeeberD]

CNNSI has Morrison going to the Rockets. I really don't see him falling that far, though...

[miami_fan]

How much will the fact that Toronto has spent three of their last four 1st round picks on 4/5 types affect their choices this year? I think Colangelo would much rather find a backcourt player (Brandon Roy?) but he won't pick one at #1.

[stevew]

Hey, at least the Hawks don't have to surrender this years pick in that Joe Johnson debacle. Diaw looks pretty good these days.

[Groundhog]

But onto Douby. I'm a Rutgers guy, so you can surely think I'm biased. But I think he will be an excellent pro, as he won't just be a 3 pt shooter. He'll have the ability to score from anywhere on the floor (literally...he could get his floater off in traffic or drain a 30 foot jumper). He's gotten better every year, and I don't doubt that he could play PG in the pros. It's hard to display your ball-handling skills when you're getting swarmed by 3 defenders since no one else on your team can score.


OK, a player like that we do need. The team needs scorers, but scorers that can actually shoot (ie. not Flip Murray). Still, whether he has the court vision to go with his ball handling would be the issue as to whether he can play PG. If he's being predicted to go as high as Utah's pick and then drops to us, maybe it's worth the risk.

[stevew]

I'd take Reddick at 25 in a heartbeat. He's way better than Trajan Langdon.

[Groundhog]

I'd take Reddick without question at 25 too. I think he'll be a decent pro.

[Logan]

OK, a player like that we do need. The team needs scorers, but scorers that can actually shoot (ie. not Flip Murray). Still, whether he has the court vision to go with his ball handling would be the issue as to whether he can play PG. If he's being predicted to go as high as Utah's pick and then drops to us, maybe it's worth the risk.

I think, at worst, he'll be an instant offense off the bench-type, and such a player will always have a home on some team. But in order for him to be a great player in the NBA, I don't think he can be confined to one position, especially PG, where his natural "gunner" instinct would be harnessed.

[st.cronin]

I think, at worst, he'll be an instant offense off the bench-type, and such a player will always have a home on some team. But in order for him to be a great player in the NBA, I don't think he can be confined to one position, especially PG, where his natural "gunner" instinct would be harnessed.

I actually see him as a decent point guard in the NBA. He's got a good handle, and everybody from Duke seems like they're good enough passers. I can see him being comparable to Dana Barros, somebody like that.

[sterlingice]

I'd take Reddick without question at 25 too. I think he'll be a decent pro.

At the worst, isn't be pretty much Jeff Hornacek?

SI

[Logan]

I actually see him as a decent point guard in the NBA. He's got a good handle, and everybody from Duke seems like they're good enough passers. I can see him being comparable to Dana Barros, somebody like that.

I was referring to Douby. Believe Groundhog was too.

But yeah, I think Reddick will be a fine passer. :)

[General Mike]

Douby is better than Reddick. People need to know that Douby didn't start playing competitive basketball until his junior year of high school. If he had come back to Rutgers, he would have been Big East preseason Player of the Year.

[Groundhog]

CNNSI has Morrison going to the Rockets. I really don't see him falling that far, though...

This CNNSI mock is quite different from the other's I'm seeing. A few things jump out at me:

#1 - Raptors - Andrea Bargnani - I would be more surprised at this than even the Aldridge pick. But then, I really have no idea what the Raptors will do. The #1 selection probably has more trade value than the player selected, so I think you have to try move it because none of the top players fill their needs.

#8 - Rockets - Adam Morrison - The Rockets wish... no way he lasts this long, and if he does then I've lost what little faith I have left in NBA talent scouts.

#24 - Grizz - Shannon Brown - O RLY? Plays for Michigan State yet I don't recognise his name at all.

#27 - Suns - Brad Newley - A fellow Aussie! I've seen this kid play tons of times. This would be a perfect fit because of his shooting ability, but this guy is a late 2nd rounder or undrafted... no way he goes in the 1st.

[sovereignstar]

Very impressive non-NBA stats (http://www.euroleague.net/plantillas/jugador.jsp?id=BWZ)

[Schmidty]

#24 - Grizz - Shannon Brown - O RLY? Plays for Michigan State yet I don't recognise his name at all.

Maybe you haven't been paying attention the past few years. He's been one of the best, if not the best, SG in the Big Ten for the past two years. He is known to be one of the most athletic players in all of college. Some of the dunks I've seen him do have made my jaw drop. Not only that, but has excellent range, lots of strength, and has been the best defender on the team since he came in as a freshman.

I'm really disappointed if he actually signs an agent, because MSU's Big Ten hopes will go down the tubes if he leaves. But I'm pretty sure he'll go, especially since he's being projected in the 1st round.

If he gets drafted in the 20's, everyone with look back in 3 years and be blown away that so many people passed on him, kind of like people say about Tayshaun Prince.

[Neuqua]

There's talk the Bulls might be interested in Brown with their pick at #16.

My claim to fame is Brown dunked on my ass in a pickup game back in high school.

[Neuqua]

dola

I don't think he'd remember me though.

[Groundhog]

Maybe you haven't been paying attention the past few years. He's been one of the best, if not the best, SG in the Big Ten for the past two years. He is known to be one of the most athletic players in all of college. Some of the dunks I've seen him do have made my jaw drop. Not only that, but has excellent range, lots of strength, and has been the best defender on the team since he came in as a freshman.

Maybe I should watch more Big Ten basketball. But yeah, name does not ring a bell to me, but I haven't paid much attention to Michigan State in a while, either. I know Ager, that's about it.

[timmynausea]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7966511/

MSN's mock draft has both Kevin Pittsnogle and Mike Gansey out of WVU going in the late first round. That'd be sweet. I might actually watch some NBA games.

[bbor]

Raptors are saying they are gonna take the Itlian kid,but i think it is a Colangelo smokescreen.I can't see them using this pick unless it is for Aldridge.More likely is them trading down and taking the PG Williams.

[Sublime 2]

#8 - Rockets - Adam Morrison - The Rockets wish... no way he lasts this long, and if he does then I've lost what little faith I have left in NBA talent scouts.



Even IF he lasted that long, there's no way the Celtics don't grab him at 7. And I just can't imagine him lasting that long.

I'm interested to see who the C's draft, or if they draft anyone at all. Boston is full of youngsters and I wouldn't be surprised if Ainge deals the pick in package. If they decide to hold onto the pick, I have to think they grab a point or big man. The Celtics really don't need another wingman with Pierce, Wally, Tony Allen, and Gerald Green, all of whom need minutes. I'm not too thrilled with the point guard class but I know don't want to see Rondo in a Celtics jersey. I'd much rather see Foye or M. Williams.

[vex]

Draft prospects impress Scott during workouts

By Darnell Mayberry
The Oklahoman

The Hornets moved a step closer to finding the swingman they crave on Wednesday during the team’s first set of workouts of draft prospects.


For more than two hours, Hornets coach Byron Scott drilled a foursome that included Arizona guard Hassan Adams, Michigan State guard Maurice Ager, Villanova guard Randy Foye and Memphis forward Rodney Carney.
Scott was so impressed with the first session that he called it one of the best he’s seen in a long time.

“With those four guys, especially the caliber of players that they are, all going at each other the way they went at each other was really good,” Scott said. “You want to see that competitive nature, and we had a chance to see that from the time they stepped on the court to the time they finished. So I was very pleased with the workout.”

Wednesday’s quartet - the first of 15 to 20 players the Hornets aim to work out - were very similar. All recently completed a four-year college career and each possess exceptional leaping ability, speed, quickness and perimeter shooting.

But Scott said the 6-5, 200-pound Ager surprised him most.
“Maurice was a better athlete than I thought and really, really attacks the basket,” said Scott, who also touted his leadership skills and confidence during the workout.

“It was a good surprise, because I just didn’t know that about him. I’ve seen Michigan State play a number of times. And I’ve seen him have some big games, and I’ve seen him have some so-so games. But he was impressive today. I liked what I saw.”

Much of the workouts include a lot of shooting drills and physical testing of a player’s height, weight, vertical jump and 40-yard dash time. Scott also puts the group through games of one-on-one and two-on-two.

From what could be gathered in the last portion of the session that is open to the media, Villanova’s Foye appeared to stand out most, with the game coming to him the most naturally. At 6-3, 205 pounds, Foye is talented enough to play either point guard or shooting guard. But most experts project him to be selected in the top 10, well before the Hornets’ two first-round picks at 12 and 15.

“It doesn’t matter,” Foye said of the projection, “because anything could happen. They could trade up if they liked me, or I could slip and go 12 or 15. They got a feel for what I can do today, so if I do slip they’ll have a chance to pick me up at 12 or 15.”

Although Ager is projected to be available when the Hornets select, ESPN.com’s mock draft has the Hornets selecting a center at 12 and Carney at 15. NBADraft.net, however, has Carney going ninth, while CNNSI.com has him going as high as sixth. Adams is widely projected to go in the second round.

“We’re high on this group,” said Hornets general manager Jeff Bower, who flirted with the idea of inviting up to two players back.

“We had a group of seniors, which is real unique in today’s climate. And the overall athleticism of the group, we had four guys here that are near the top of the draft in athleticism.”

The Hornets are scheduled to bring in their second group of prospects next week. None of the players’ names have been revealed yet, but they are believed to be a group of post players.

[dacman]

Shannon Brown says hello:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vARuxOAkmak&search=shannon%20brown

[Groundhog]

Raptors are saying they are gonna take the Itlian kid,but i think it is a Colangelo smokescreen.I can't see them using this pick unless it is for Aldridge.More likely is them trading down and taking the PG Williams.

Yeah, no way you announce it this early. More than likely they are trying to build up hype over this kid and increase the value of their draft pick for a trade.

[Groundhog]

Even IF he lasted that long, there's no way the Celtics don't grab him at 7. And I just can't imagine him lasting that long.

I'm interested to see who the C's draft, or if they draft anyone at all. Boston is full of youngsters and I wouldn't be surprised if Ainge deals the pick in package. If they decide to hold onto the pick, I have to think they grab a point or big man. The Celtics really don't need another wingman with Pierce, Wally, Tony Allen, and Gerald Green, all of whom need minutes. I'm not too thrilled with the point guard class but I know don't want to see Rondo in a Celtics jersey. I'd much rather see Foye or M. Williams.

Yeah, along with the Raps I also have no idea what the Celts will do. They have so much youth in the frontcourt with Perkins and Jefferson, and in the backcourt with Green, Allen & West. They really don't need more youth unless it's a real good PG, and Foye is probably the best one in the draft. Foye might not still be on the board though, and I can't see who else would fit, unless one of the top 4 of Thomas-Morrison-Aldridge-Bargnani slides.

[Groundhog]

New mock up on nbadraft.net.

Some selections:

1. Raptors - Aldridge
2. Bulls - Bargnani
3. Bobcats - Morrison
4. Blazers - Tyrus Thomas
8. Rockets - Marcus Williams
11. Magic - J.J. Redick
16. Bulls - Quincy Douby
19. Kings - Jordan Farmar
24. Cavs - Saer Sene

The top 4 seem set, though perhaps not in that order. I read some rumours about the Bulls being interested in Brandon Roy at #2 however. Douby has started his climb, and there doesn't look like the Cavs have a shot at him. Same with Farmar, who nbadraft.net has had going to the Kings for awhile now. I wonder if the Kings have said anything about it, or if it's just guess work.

Interesting choice for the Cavs with the Senegal bigman Sene, though I'm a little nervous. He is described as one of those long, athletic, defensively-orientated Cs, and has no scoring ability to speak of and has only been playing basketball since 2003. Prospects like this rarely turn out IMO, and I'd rather go with someone who might actually be able to step right in and play.

[vex]

<TABLE borderColor=#000000 borderColorDark=#000000 width=665 bgColor=#000000 borderColorLight=#000000 border=1><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top borderColor=#333300 align=right width="3%" bgColor=#32435f>12.</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#ffffff>http://www.nbadraft.net/smnbateams/cha_25.gif
</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#32435f>NO/OK City </TD><TD width="32%" bgColor=#32435f>Cedric Simmons 6-10 233 PF/C NCSt. So. (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/cedricsimmons.asp)[/URL] (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/patrickobryant.asp)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 borderColorDark=#000000 width=665 bgColor=#000000 borderColorLight=#000000 border=1><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top borderColor=#333300 align=right width="3%" bgColor=#32435f>13.</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#ffffff>http://www.nbadraft.net/smnbateams/phi_25.gif
</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#32435f>Philadelphia</TD><TD width="32%" bgColor=#32435f>Shelden Williams 6-9 250 PF/C Duke Sr. (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/sheldenwilliams.asp) (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/patrickobryant.asp)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 borderColorDark=#000000 width=665 bgColor=#000000 borderColorLight=#000000 border=1><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top borderColor=#333300 align=right width="3%" bgColor=#32435f>15.</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#ffffff>http://www.nbadraft.net/smnbateams/cha_25.gif (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/patrickobryant.asp)
</TD><TD vAlign=top borderColorLight=#000033 bgColor=#32435f>*NO/OK City (http://www.nbadraft.net/#) </TD><TD width="32%" bgColor=#32435f>Ronnie Brewer 6-7 217 SG Arkansas Jr. (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/ronniebrewer.asp) (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/hiltonarmstrong.asp) (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/jjredick.asp)[URL="http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/oleksiypecherov.asp"]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

I really think that Shelden Williams will be taken by the Hornets before Simmons.

But I don't see what drafting Williams or any PF does good. They need a center, though PJ Brown reportedly wants to play for a championship contender this year, so maybe that's the thought behind that.

[Swaggs]

The thing about this draft is that I can see teams wanting to move down, out of the top few spots, but there really isn't anyone worth moving up for, in my opinion.

[Neon_Chaos]

Shannon Brown says hello:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vARuxOAkmak&search=shannon%20brown

to quote the lone comment there...

"that nigga got fucked up"

[stevew]

The thing about this draft is that I can see teams wanting to move down, out of the top few spots, but there really isn't anyone worth moving up for, in my opinion.

Really, people don't move all that much in the NBA draft. It's not like the NFL draft, for instance. I remember one #1 pick getting traded during all the years i have paid attention to the NBA.
And the Magic should have jsut kept the Webber/Shaq frontcourt.

[albionmoonlight]

Uncomfirmed Rumor Time!

I know a guy who is an insider of sorts with the Kentucky basketball program. Apparently, the team is keeping things under very tight wraps, but there have been rumors that the FBI is investigating Rajon Rondo for something. My "source" does not think that there is really much of anything going on here, but he did say that a couple of the more daring local media members have been throwing the term "point shaving" around with each other (though no one is saying anything like that in public or on the record).

[John Galt]

the more daring local media members have been throwing the term "point shaving" around with each other (though no one is saying anything like that in public or on the record).

So, that's why he could never hit the broad side of a barn with his jumpshot.

[albionmoonlight]

So, that's why he could never hit the broad side of a barn with his jumpshot.

Yeah. I can see someone coming up with the point shaving idea based soley on 1.) How much he had been touted (he was considered the front runner for SEC player of the year before the season started); and 2.) How badly he played last season.

[JeeberD]

New mock up on nbadraft.net.

Some selections:

1. Raptors - Aldridge
2. Bulls - Bargnani
3. Bobcats - Morrison
4. Blazers - Tyrus Thomas
8. Rockets - Marcus Williams
11. Magic - J.J. Redick
16. Bulls - Quincy Douby
19. Kings - Jordan Farmar
24. Cavs - Saer Sene

I would love the Rockets to grab Williams...


Interesting choice for the Cavs with the Senegal bigman Sene, though I'm a little nervous. He is described as one of those long, athletic, defensively-orientated Cs, and has no scoring ability to speak of and has only been playing basketball since 2003. Prospects like this rarely turn out IMO, and I'd rather go with someone who might actually be able to step right in and play.

Desagana Diop, anyone?

[bulletsponge]

I would love the Rockets to grab Williams...


i dont know. his game looks good, but be very wary of someone who steals

[Swaggs]

Really, people don't move all that much in the NBA draft. It's not like the NFL draft, for instance. I remember one #1 pick getting traded during all the years i have paid attention to the NBA.
And the Magic should have jsut kept the Webber/Shaq frontcourt.

I can think of the Webber-Hardaway, Deron Williams to the Jazz last season, and the Jamison-Carter deals off the top of my head. And I don't pay too close of attention.

[spleen1015]

I don't follow the NBA closely...

What are the chances of JJ Redick getting picked by the Pacers?

[rkmsuf]

I don't follow the NBA closely...

What are the chances of JJ Redick getting picked by the Pacers?


word is he won't get past utah

[st.cronin]

word is he won't get past utah

If this is a joke, it's a funny one.

[Swaggs]

word is he won't get past utah

Utah and Reddick make a lot of sense together. Plus, he reminds me a lot of Jeff Hornacek and Sloan knew how to get the most out of him.

[rkmsuf]

If this is a joke, it's a funny one.

it's what my people are telling me. it's about where he should go.

[sterlingice]

Utah and Reddick make a lot of sense together. Plus, he reminds me a lot of Jeff Hornacek and Sloan knew how to get the most out of him.

http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=1148697&postcount=61 ;)

SI

[Groundhog]

New Mock:

1. Raptors - Adam Morrison
2. Bulls - Tyrus Thomas
3. Bobcats - Rudy Gay
4. Blazers - Andrea Bargnani
5. Hawks - LaMarcus Aldridge
7. Celtics - Randy Foye
8. Rockets - Marcus Williams
12. Hornets - J.J. Redick
16. Bulls - Quincy Douby
22. Nets - Jordan Farmar
25. Cavaliers - Rajon Rondo

I think this is starting to get closer to what we'll see on draft day. Morrison at #1 is maybe a surprise, but I think that's where he should go. He makes a lot more sense for the Raptors than Bargnani, Thomas, or Aldridge. Morrison's ability to score in the NBA is a lock - regardless of his other potential problems - which is probably more than you can say about Thomas-Bargnani-Aldridge.

Hawks would have to be happy with Aldridge at #5. This would be a great choice for them, but you can't help but feel that they'll draft yet another swingman like Gay or Carney...

I like Foye, and he's perhaps the one player that the Celtics might be able to use. They really don't need more youth however, and should maybe consider trading the pick for a veteran. Exactly what level of veteran player the #7 pick will get you in this year's draft however...

J.J. Redick would be a great pick for the Hornets IMO. A Redick & Paul backcourt has potential to be very, very dangerous. With Paul's ability to penetrate and kick, I can imagine the kind of looks Redick would get.

Cavs picking up Rondo makes a lot more sense than Saer Sene, but I'm still not so keen on it. Rondo just doesn't sound to me like he's going to be a starting quality PG, but unfortunately Farmar and Douby don't look like they are going to be around either.

[miami_fan]

New Mock:

1. Raptors - Adam Morrison
2. Bulls - Tyrus Thomas
3. Bobcats - Rudy Gay
4. Blazers - Andrea Bargnani
5. Hawks - LaMarcus Aldridge
7. Celtics - Randy Foye
8. Rockets - Marcus Williams
12. Hornets - J.J. Redick
16. Bulls - Quincy Douby
22. Nets - Jordan Farmar
25. Cavaliers - Rajon Rondo

I think this is starting to get closer to what we'll see on draft day. Morrison at #1 is maybe a surprise, but I think that's where he should go. He makes a lot more sense for the Raptors than Bargnani, Thomas, or Aldridge. Morrison's ability to score in the NBA is a lock - regardless of his other potential problems - which is probably more than you can say about Thomas-Bargnani-Aldridge.

Hawks would have to be happy with Aldridge at #5. This would be a great choice for them, but you can't help but feel that they'll draft yet another swingman like Gay or Carney...

I like Foye, and he's perhaps the one player that the Celtics might be able to use. They really don't need more youth however, and should maybe consider trading the pick for a veteran. Exactly what level of veteran player the #7 pick will get you in this year's draft however...

J.J. Redick would be a great pick for the Hornets IMO. A Redick & Paul backcourt has potential to be very, very dangerous. With Paul's ability to penetrate and kick, I can imagine the kind of looks Redick would get.

Cavs picking up Rondo makes a lot more sense than Saer Sene, but I'm still not so keen on it. Rondo just doesn't sound to me like he's going to be a starting quality PG, but unfortunately Farmar and Douby don't look like they are going to be around either.

Morrison is a much better fit for the Raptors than the the others that is for sure. I still don't think he is a number one pick overall. I don't think there is anyway that the Hawks won't take Aldridge if he is there. They seem intent on keeping all the small forwards they have on the roster. I would be concern with the Paul/Redick combo on the defensive end. Paul is only 6 feet tall and Redick is 6'4 (or less depending on what they measure at the pre draft camp this week)

Groundhog: I have been meaning to ask you. What has been the overall opinion of Andrew Bogut's rookie season in Australia?

[Groundhog]

Morrison is a much better fit for the Raptors than the the others that is for sure. I still don't think he is a number one pick overall. I don't think there is anyway that the Hawks won't take Aldridge if he is there. They seem intent on keeping all the small forwards they have on the roster. I would be concern with the Paul/Redick combo on the defensive end. Paul is only 6 feet tall and Redick is 6'4 (or less depending on what they measure at the pre draft camp this week)

Groundhog: I have been meaning to ask you. What has been the overall opinion of Andrew Bogut's rookie season in Australia?

It's a short backcourt, but I can see more teams willing to gamble with that kind of backcourt with the kind of success the Suns have had this year. Have a PG that can push the ball and a shooter like Redick can equal a lot of points. Defensively it hurts, but you should be able to outscore them.

Basketball doesn't get a lot of attention over here, but every time Bogut has a big game it's on the news. It's all been very positive however, and I think the general consensus is that he had a promising rookie year. My personal opinion is that he really needs to play C rather than PF, which will happen when Magloire goes. Also, the Bucks offense was not geared around their two post players at all. We got to see a lot of Bucks games on cable TV down here, and I was really surprised at how the Bucks used him. I think he's capable of a lot more, and if he'd played for a team like the Hawks he would have had a much better season. Before the season started I predicted 12pts 8rebs 3asts for him, and he didn't quite reach that, but with a few more touches he would have.

He's no all-star, but he's no Luc Longley, either.

[Logan]

Before the season started I predicted 12pts 8rebs 3asts for him, and he didn't quite reach that, but with a few more touches he would have.

He's no all-star, but he's no Luc Longley, either.

I didn't see too much of him, but he was much better than I expected.

[Groundhog]

Some misc. rumours:

- Apparently no player's draft stock has been rising as fast as Rajon Rondo over the past few weeks. This surprises me, but hopefully it will lead to the team that intended on taking Farmar (Kings?) going after Rondo instead, and letting Farmar slide down to the Cavs.

- Morrison's agent is going to great lengths to assure everyone that his diabetes will not affect his pro career. I doubt this will have much affect on where he goes, and he still should be top 4.

- Utah brought the big Nigerian Saer Sene in for a workout and were impressed. He has a 7'8 wingspan and Karl Malone, who is acting as a sort of scout for the rookie work-outs, said some nice things about him. Good I say. Let the Jazz take him so that my Cavs don't.

- Haven't seen Douby's name being mentioned much at all. I really hope he falls to us. You guys have me excited about him... :)

- Illinois' Dee Brown's stock is rising too. He was considered a 2nd rounder, but may have worked his way up in to the first. Brown intrigues me. I think he's an NBA player, but is he an NBA quality PG, or a far too under-sized SG? He's only 6'0 in shoes, but might work off the bench in a combo-guard role. I could think of worse things than the Cavs grabbing him in the 1st round.

- I think this is a good year to have a few 2nd round selections. Some names on nbadraft.net's 2nd round list that I think might be able to contribute on a roster next year: Hassan Adams, Leon Powe, Paul Davis, Alan Ray and Gerry McNamara.

[Sublime 2]

- Apparently no player's draft stock has been rising as fast as Rajon Rondo over the past few weeks. This surprises me, but hopefully it will lead to the team that intended on taking Farmar (Kings?) going after Rondo instead, and letting Farmar slide down to the Cavs.



Chad Fraud has him going to the Celtics at 7, and I just pray he's wrong as usual! We don't need another defense first, no shot, pg. We had one in Marcus Banks and he just didn't pan out here, could have been Marcus' attitude but I'd still be leary of Rondo.

I know this isn't the NFL so trading down really isn't a plausible option, but I'd like to see the C's try to move down a bit into the early teens and grab Sergio Rodriguez. I've heard good things about him and checked out a few YouTube videos. As I've heard before he looks like a no attitude Jason Williams.

[Young Drachma]

Justin Williams from Wyoming was the only player in D1 to be in the Top 10 in blocks and rebounds. He'll be an interesting pickup for somebody in the 2nd round, though he's not exactly NBA center material.

[Groundhog]

Another new mock up. Top 5 stays the same, though I still don't see Aldridge falling to the Hawks at #5.

Jordan Farmar is the big climber in this mock, now going to #13. I have a feeling he may go even higher come draft day. Rondo however, who I've been hearing good things about, they have to the Lakers at #26. Odd, as from what I read he should be much higher. I still hope the Cavs don't take him if he's around.

Cavs take Douby once again in this mock. As I said before, I haven't been hearing a lot about this guy. I'm sure those GMs picking in the teens will be keeping their mouths shut in an effort to make sure he's available when they pick however.

[stevew]

I don't really care which position the Cavs take as long as the player can impact the roster in a positive way. Really, any solid player could get minutes his first year regardless of position. A PG would be nice, i just cant see getting a starter type that late in the draft.

[Neuqua]

Not draft related but it looks like the NBA is going to be using a new design on their basketballs next season.

http://www.hoopsworld.com/news/uploads/newball.jpg

[Logan]

Eww.

[Groundhog]

That should help raise those shooting percentages. ;)

[JeeberD]

Not draft related but it looks like the NBA is going to be using a new design on their basketballs next season.

http://www.hoopsworld.com/news/uploads/newball.jpg

It's apparently the same ball that was used at the All Star Game this year. And from what I've heard the ball will be synthetic (no longer leather) making for a more consistent feeling among the balls, but it will also be slicker.

Joy. More turnovers.

[rkmsuf]

It's apparently the same ball that was used at the All Star Game this year. And from what I've heard the ball will be synthetic (no longer leather) making for a more consistent feeling among the balls, but it will also be slicker.

Joy. More turnovers.

Maybe they can introduce a special free throw ball only in use on free throws.

[timmynausea]

I doubt it effects his stock much, but J.J. Redick apparently got arrested for a DWI last night.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2006/news/story?id=2482061

[stevew]

Just in time to drop him down to the Cavs.

[dawgfan]

The mock drafts I'm seeing and speculation I've read have Brandon Roy going higher than in the mocks I've seen posted here - he could go as high as #2 to Chicago, and reportedly Portland likes him enough that he probably won't fall past them at #4.

I'm also skeptical of all the mocks that have the Sonics selecting a big man - unless they all know something I don't about the state of negotiations between the Sonics and Chris Wilcox, picking a big doesn't make much sense for Seattle, what with Robert Swift and Johan Petro at C and Chris Wilcox and Nick Collison at PF. The Sonics would be better off with a 3 to back up Rashard Lewis (and perhaps step in for him if he leaves as a FA or the Sonics decide to swap him in a blockbuster) or a 2 to groom behind Ray Allen.

[Neuqua]

I see the Bulls taking either Thomas or Roy truthfully.

Thomas has been getting rave reviews from everybody in camp from what I am hearing and Paxson knows that what we could surely use on this team is an athletic monster like him.

Roy would fit in perfectly in the Bulls' back court along side Gordon and Hinrich. He's a big guard (last I heard he was measuring in at 6'6'', any truth to that?) and he should let Hinrich guard PGs again who he is better suited for.

[dawgfan]

He's a big guard (last I heard he was measuring in at 6'6'', any truth to that?) and he should let Hinrich guard PGs again who he is better suited for.
Yeah, I've never heard anyone dispute his height - he's been at 6'6" his whole time at the UW. He's a good combo player - he's probably best suited for the 2, but he's got the athleticism to compete at the 3 against most opponents, and he can guard 1's and play OK PG himself when needed.

Roy's biggest knock is his jump shot. He's worked hard on it, but he's not Ray Allen. His offensive strengths are getting to the bucket and drawing contact. He's a good defensive player, a good passer, puts some effort on hitting the boards, but most of all he's just a very smart basketball player. He's the kind of guy that is so smooth and natural that you may not really notice him and then you look at the stat sheet and see he's popped 25 points, 7 boards and 5 assists.

[miami_fan]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2489123

LOS ANGELES -- UCLA guard Arron Afflalo withdrew from the NBA draft Saturday, allowing him to return for his junior season.

Jordan Farmar, the other half of the Bruins' star backcourt, declared for the draft the same day in April as Afflalo. Neither player signed with an agent, so Farmar is eligible to return, too.

"He's still formulating his decision," coach Ben Howland said.

The deadline to withdraw from the draft is 5 p.m. ET Sunday.

Afflalo said he worked out individually for the Lakers, Clippers, Chicago, Cleveland and Indiana.

"Some of the teams thought I was a second-round talent," he said during a conference call. "A few teams did indicate I was a first-round talent. It was never about money. I was looking for the right situation for me."

He said he received mostly positive feedback from the teams, with some wanting him to improve creating off the dribble for himself and others.

Afflalo had said he would return to school if he wasn't assured of being a first-round pick who would receive a guaranteed contract.

"It was very hard for teams to guarantee things," he said. "It definitely wasn't worth jeopardizing the great situation I'm in here."

Afflalo and Farmar led the Bruins to a runner-up finish to Florida in the national championship game after helping them win the Pacific-10 Conference regular-season and tournament titles.

Afflalo and Farmar, the Bruins' co-captains, shared the John Wooden Award as the team's most valuable players last season. UCLA finished 32-7, tying a school record for most wins.

Afflalo was the leading scorer at 15.8 points and Farmar was second at 13.5. He also led the Pac-10 in assists.

"What's to be disappointed about? This is a great team," Afflalo said. "I enjoy playing with my teammates. I knew I could make a lot of people happy with this decision."

Especially Howland, who signed Afflalo and Farmar as his first two recruits when he took over in Westwood three seasons ago.

"We're very fortunate to have him back," Howland said. "No doubt in my mind, he will be in the NBA someday. It's just a matter of when, not if."

[miami_fan]

Player School Height Status
LaMarcus Aldridge Texas 6-10 Sophomore
Renaldo Balkman South Carolina 6-8 Junior
Will Blalock Iowa State 5-11 Junior
Josh Boone Connecticut 6-10 Junior
Ronnie Brewer Arkansas 6-6 Junior
Shannon Brown Michigan State 6-4 Junior
Derek Burditt Blinn College (TX) 6-7 Sophomore
Travis DeGroot Delta State 6-4 Junior
Guillermo Diaz Miami (FL) 6-2 Junior
Quincy Douby Rutgers 6-3 Junior
Mike Efevberha Cal-State Northridge 6-5 Junior
Jordan Farmar UCLA 6-2 Sophomore
Thomas Gardner Missouri 6-5 Junior
Rudy Gay Connecticut 6-8 Sophomore
Daniel Gibson Texas 6-2 Sophomore
LeShawn Hammett St. Francis (PA) 6-0 Junior
Tedric Hill Gulf Coast CC (FL) 6-10 Sophomore
Donald Jeffes Gulf Coast CC (FL) 6-8 Sophomore
Alexander Johnson Florida State 6-9 Junior
David Johnson Clinton JC (SC) 6-7 Junior
Mark Konecny Lambuth University (TN) 6-10 Junior
Kyle Lowry Villanova 6-0 Sophomore
Paul Millsap Louisiana Tech 6-8 Junior
Matt Mitchell Southern University-New Orleans 6-0 Junior
Adam Morrison Gonzaga 6-8 Junior
Patrick O'Bryant Bradley 7-0 Sophomore
Danilo (J.R.) Pinnock George Washington 6-5 Junior
Leon Powe California 6-8 Sophomore
Rajon Rondo Kentucky 6-2 Sophomore
Cedric Simmons North Carolina State 6-9 Sophomore
Marcus Slaughter San Diego State 6-8 Junior
Curtis Stinson Iowa State 6-3 Junior
Tyrus Thomas LSU 6-9 Freshman
P.J. Tucker Texas 6-5 Junior
Darius Washington Jr. Memphis 6-2 Sophomore
Marcus Williams Connecticut 6-3 Junior
Shawne Williams Memphis 6-9 Freshman

From a purely basketball point of view, I really can't understand why Josh Boone and Daniel Gibson are coming out early. Maybe scouts have them rated higher than all the mock drafts are predicting but the latest mock draft I saw has Boone going to PHX while Gibson is supposed to drop to the Magic in the second round. Is school really that bad?

[Coffee Warlord]

I see the Bulls taking either Thomas or Roy truthfully.

Thomas has been getting rave reviews from everybody in camp from what I am hearing and Paxson knows that what we could surely use on this team is an athletic monster like him.

Roy would fit in perfectly in the Bulls' back court along side Gordon and Hinrich. He's a big guard (last I heard he was measuring in at 6'6'', any truth to that?) and he should let Hinrich guard PGs again who he is better suited for.

I'm hoping they go with Roy. By all accounts, he's the most NBA ready player, and he fills a big need for the Bulls. I'd rather they get a veteran forward or two anyway.

[Neuqua]

Tyrus Thomas cancelled his workout with Portland, rumors are circulating that he has a promise of being a top 3 pick.

[AgustusM]

I think JJ Redick's only chance at a pro career is to get with the right team, like say the Suns that don't play much defense. I don't believe Redick can hang with the average 2 guard in the NBA. However on a team like the Suns where he can run and spot up for 3's he could be very successful. Considering the other offensive talent on that team - he would get a ton of open looks.

and no, I am not a suns fan - I am a warriors fan and since my team has past the clippers for long term ineptitude I must chime in on something else.

and speaking of the warriors I am sure they will draft another good guy who is a few inches too short, a few steps too slow but has a lot of upside.

[ThunderingHERD]

Hopefully the Bobcats will take either Roy or Rudy Gay. Adam Morrison was scaring me there for a while, but with Jordan in charge now I think he's out of the picture.

Of interest in Chad Ford's new mock draft:

5. Hawks - Shelden Williams. "Several league sources told Insider in Orlando and Italy that the Hawks had cut a deal with Williams. If so, it's hard to understand. Why cut a deal with a guy who has a 99.9 percent probability of being there at No. 5? "

Ford has Rudy Gay falling to the Celtics at 7, which I think would be a steal. Not as big as Rondo going to the Wizards at 18, which would be insane.

[dawgfan]

I find it annoying that ESPN will post official measurements from the NBA draft camp and yet ignore that info in other locations when discussing NBA prospects - to wit, Brandon Roy measured 6'6 1/2" at the combine, yet he is still listed as 6'5" everywhere else on the website. They probably are continuing to get J.J. Redick's height wrong as well.

[Groundhog]

Hopefully the Bobcats will take either Roy or Rudy Gay. Adam Morrison was scaring me there for a while, but with Jordan in charge now I think he's out of the picture.

Of interest in Chad Ford's new mock draft:

5. Hawks - Shelden Williams. "Several league sources told Insider in Orlando and Italy that the Hawks had cut a deal with Williams. If so, it's hard to understand. Why cut a deal with a guy who has a 99.9 percent probability of being there at No. 5? "

Ford has Rudy Gay falling to the Celtics at 7, which I think would be a steal. Not as big as Rondo going to the Wizards at 18, which would be insane.

Wow. Surprised to see Shelden go that high. I really like Shelden and thought he'd be a great pickup for someone at the end of the lottery, but I think the Hawks are nuts to grab him there.

Gay has the potential to slide for sure, but he doesn't really impress me at all. I'd take Morrison over him any day of the week.

[timmynausea]

I'm really hoping Mike Gansey can sneak into the end of the first round. He has tested really well in private workouts with various teams, doing 16-17 reps of 185 pounds along with a 34" vertical.

[Groundhog]

New mock up on nbadraft.net, and it's getting interesting:

1 - Raps - Bagnani
2 - Bulls - Thomas
3 - Bobcats - Gay
4 - Blazers - Morrison
5 - Hawks - Shelden Williams
6 - TWolves - Roy
7 - Boston - Aldridge(!!)
13 - 76ers - Marcus Williams
17 - Pacers - Jordan Farmar
18 - Wiz - Saer Sene
23 - Nets - Rajon Rondo
25 - Cavs - Shawne Williams
34 - Clips - Quincy Douby(!!!)

Shelden has certainly jumped up. He'll have a better rookie year than Aldridge if he finds court time, but I think Aldridge is hard to pass up on. Celts would be pretty happy with Aldridge I'd imagine.

Marcus Williams took a bit of a tumble. At first it's hard to account for, but if Boston don't go with a PG and Houston takes Foye then it's definately a possibility, because the other teams inbetween don't really need a PG, or have more pressing needs.

Farmar to Pacers is a decent fit, and those Wiz bail out some other sucker by grabbing the project that won't pan out.

Shawne Williams might be a good pickup for the Cavs. He's a versatile scorer who can play several positions. He's pretty young though and might not be able to step in and produce from day one.

Douby slipping in to the 2nd round seems strange to me. If he's available I'd take him over Williams.

[stevew]

New mock up on nbadraft.net, and it's getting interesting:

1 - Raps - Bagnani
2 - Bulls - Thomas
3 - Bobcats - Gay
4 - Blazers - Morrison
5 - Hawks - Shelden Williams
6 - TWolves - Roy
7 - Boston - Aldridge(!!)
13 - 76ers - Marcus Williams
17 - Pacers - Jordan Farmar
18 - Wiz - Saer Sene
23 - Nets - Rajon Rondo
25 - Cavs - Shawne Williams
34 - Clips - Quincy Douby(!!!)

Shelden has certainly jumped up. He'll have a better rookie year than Aldridge if he finds court time, but I think Aldridge is hard to pass up on. Celts would be pretty happy with Aldridge I'd imagine.

Marcus Williams took a bit of a tumble. At first it's hard to account for, but if Boston don't go with a PG and Houston takes Foye then it's definately a possibility, because the other teams inbetween don't really need a PG, or have more pressing needs.

Farmar to Pacers is a decent fit, and those Wiz bail out some other sucker by grabbing the project that won't pan out.

Shawne Williams might be a good pickup for the Cavs. He's a versatile scorer who can play several positions. He's pretty young though and might not be able to step in and produce from day one.

Douby slipping in to the 2nd round seems strange to me. If he's available I'd take him over Williams.

I think I want the SG from West Virginia in the first round. His name escapes me, I think it's Gansey, but I think he will be a good fit for the offense. That Senagalese guy also has me interested. I'd take a Diop type at 25. I also heard that it's looking like Gooden might be headed out in some sort of 3 way that brings in Mike James. I'll give Ferry another chance this offseason before I hate on his signings too bad.

[stevew]

I'm really hoping Mike Gansey can sneak into the end of the first round. He has tested really well in private workouts with various teams, doing 16-17 reps of 185 pounds along with a 34" vertical.

I wouldn't be suprised to see him go 25 to Cleveland. Local guy who can stretch the floor. Even if it is dupilication to our other white wing guys, but I think they will mainly be used as filler in some offseason trades.

[Groundhog]

Rumour: Toronto sends #1 Pick & Alvin Williams to Charlotte for #3 Pick & Brevin Knight.

If this goes down, the draft will likely look like this IMO:

1# - Bobcats - Tyrus Thomas - Thomas has a top-3 pick promise. He refused to workout for the Blazers at #4, and only worked out for the Bulls yesterday. This to me tells me that the Bulls want him at #2, and is the only reason why I could see the Bobcats desperately want to move up.
2# - Bulls - Andrea Bargnani - Dissapointed they didn't get their man, they grab the guy the Raps would have taken #1.
3# - Raptors - Brandon Roy - I suspect the Raptors would have loved this guy even at #1, but figured it was too high to take him. Now they have a replacement PG with Knight and a solid SG ready to step right in.

[Johnny93g]

Rumour: Toronto sends #1 Pick & Alvin Williams to Charlotte for #3 Pick & Brevin Knight.

If this goes down, the draft will likely look like this IMO:

1# - Bobcats - Tyrus Thomas - Thomas has a top-3 pick promise. He refused to workout for the Blazers at #4, and only worked out for the Bulls yesterday. This to me tells me that the Bulls want him at #2, and is the only reason why I could see the Bobcats desperately want to move up.
2# - Bulls - Andrea Bargnani - Dissapointed they didn't get their man, they grab the guy the Raps would have taken #1.
3# - Raptors - Brandon Roy - I suspect the Raptors would have loved this guy even at #1, but figured it was too high to take him. Now they have a replacement PG with Knight and a solid SG ready to step right in.

That rumour has been flying around here for weeks. I dont see it happening. The latest rumour i read was Seattle and Toronto working on a deal involving each of their pics, Ray Allen and Charlie V. I dont think that will happen either.

[stevew]

Raps sent Bonner and Williams for Nesterovic. Offseason seems to be in full swing here shortly. LeBron/Wade/Bosh/Carmelo can all sign new (max)extensions on the first.

Maybe retitle this thread 2006 Draft/Offseason instead of starting another offseason thread?

[stevew]

Rumour: Toronto sends #1 Pick & Alvin Williams to Charlotte for #3 Pick & Brevin Knight.



I like this move. The raps shave about 2.5 million off their cap with the swap, plus save about another half million in the rookie salary hold. Probably still get a player they want as well. Williams has about 2 years and 14 million, Knight expires after this season(4.4 this year).

[Sublime 2]

I'm really interested to see what the Celtics do in the draft and this offseason. A full season with Wally World and Pierce should get this team to the playoffs. The C's have some great role players in D. West, Perkins, Tony Allen, and Ryan Gomes. If Al Jefferson and Gerald Green improve this team should be anywhere from first to third in the Atlantic.

[Groundhog]

Raps sent Bonner and Williams for Nesterovic.

Decent trade for both teams. Nesto is nothing special, but is tons better than anything else the Raps had in the post last season. Bonner and Williams will both fit in at San Antonio, too.

[Sublime 2]

7 - Boston - Aldridge(!!)

He'll have a better rookie year than Aldridge if he finds court time, but I think Aldridge is hard to pass up on. Celts would be pretty happy with Aldridge I'd imagine.



I'm a little worried about Aldridge's work ethic/drive. Everything I've read on him seems to say that he's a great talent but is a little soft. Last thing the Celtics need is another Marc Blount. If he does slip to 7, I hope the C's can make a trade to land a veteran (pg or C) and a later pick.

[Groundhog]

I'm really interested to see what the Celtics do in the draft and this offseason. A full season with Wally World and Pierce should get this team to the playoffs. The C's have some great role players in D. West, Perkins, Tony Allen, and Ryan Gomes. If Al Jefferson and Gerald Green improve this team should be anywhere from first to third in the Atlantic.

They really need some veterans. They have the opportunity to get yet another good, young player, but I don't know if it will help them that much. Marcus Williams or Randy Foye should find their way to the Celtics IMO.

As for Al Jefferson, I was expecting last year to be his breakout year, but it didn't really happen. He shows flashes, though I think Perkins is the more solid of the two right now.

[stevew]

I'm really interested to see what the Celtics do in the draft and this offseason. A full season with Wally World and Pierce should get this team to the playoffs. The C's have some great role players in D. West, Perkins, Tony Allen, and Ryan Gomes. If Al Jefferson and Gerald Green improve this team should be anywhere from first to third in the Atlantic.


I'm just curious, who do you see the Celtics knocking out of a playoff spot next year?

8. Bucks-Vulnerable, yes, but Bogut has a full year now. Possibly fall out though
7. Bulls-Have lots of Cap space, #2 and #16 picks, not losing anyone of note
6. Pacers-In a bit of a transition, no Artest to sink this year however. Assuming they get Peja to come back, O'Neal healthy, I can't see them missing the playoffs.
5. Wizards-Great "Big 3," play pretty well as a team. Need some help to get over the top, but with Arenas playing like he does, I can't see them in the lottery.
4. Cavs-With a good offseason should be in the thick of things again.
3. Nets-3 great players, plus that Kristic(sp/) they have looks like he could be great. Have a pair of first rounders to add depth.
2. Heat-Champs
1. Pistons-Aging, but still have 2-3 more legitimate shots at the title.

[Groundhog]

I'm a little worried about Aldridge's work ethic/drive. Everything I've read on him seems to say that he's a great talent but is a little soft. Last thing the Celtics need is another Marc Blount. If he does slip to 7, I hope the C's can make a trade to land a veteran (pg or C) and a later pick.

Yup, his lack of strength and the fact that he was outshone by some college bigs last year hurts him, and it's seen him slide from #1 selection possibility to perhaps out of the top 5. Like you said though, he has trade value. The Celtics don't really need him, but one of the teams below would no doubt bite.

[stevew]

Decent trade for both teams. Nesto is nothing special, but is tons better than anything else the Raps had in the post last season. Bonner and Williams will both fit in at San Antonio, too.

I should add it's eric williams, instead of Alvin Williams. Eric Williams is a pretty good spot(although overpaid) player. Or at least has been in the past.

[Groundhog]

I should add it's eric williams, instead of Alvin Williams. Eric Williams is a pretty good spot(although overpaid) player. Or at least has been in the past.

Yeah, he's got the same defensive intensity as Bowen. But he hasn't played much in awhile.

[Sublime 2]

I'm just curious, who do you see the Celtics knocking out of a playoff spot next year?

8. Bucks-Vulnerable, yes, but Bogut has a full year now. Possibly fall out though
7. Bulls-Have lots of Cap space, #2 and #16 picks, not losing anyone of note
6. Pacers-In a bit of a transition, no Artest to sink this year however. Assuming they get Peja to come back, O'Neal healthy, I can't see them missing the playoffs.
5. Wizards-Great "Big 3," play pretty well as a team. Need some help to get over the top, but with Arenas playing like he does, I can't see them in the lottery.
4. Cavs-With a good offseason should be in the thick of things again.
3. Nets-3 great players, plus that Kristic(sp/) they have looks like he could be great. Have a pair of first rounders to add depth.
2. Heat-Champs
1. Pistons-Aging, but still have 2-3 more legitimate shots at the title.

First let me agree that the East is no longer the crap league it was 4-5 years ago.

Nets: I think they are just another Jason Kidd injury away from plummeting. I think Jefferson (like K-Mart) is just a product of the Jason Kidd effect. Vince is Vince, when they're winning he plays, when they're sucking, he pouts or is "injured."

Pacers: J. O'Neal may not even be back this season, and even if he is, I don't think he can throw a team on his back.

Bucks: What you said.


So looking at what you said, it doesn't look good for the Celtics. But I do think they are similar to the Bulls from a year or two ago only the C's have a premiere player in Pierce who can shoulder much of the load. They are so young that they are no doubt going to develop and gel into a much more solid/consistent team.

[ThunderingHERD]

Rumour: Toronto sends #1 Pick & Alvin Williams to Charlotte for #3 Pick & Brevin Knight.


I don't see Charlotte trading up to draft a PF in the lottery for the third straight year.

[ThunderingHERD]

Chad Ford's got new info posted.
Re: Raptors trading the #1

It sounds like the Raptors are still considering five players: Bargnani, Morrison, Gay, Aldridge and Tyrus Thomas, probably in that order.

What about a trade? The Toronto Sun reported this morning that the hot rumor had the Raptors swapping the No. 1 pick and Alvin Williams for Brevin Knight and Charlotte's No. 3 pick.

Not being considered, according to Colangelo.

"We have had some interest in some Bobcats players," Colangelo said, "but we're looking to do something much bigger with the No. 1 pick."

Does that mean a trade is in the works? For weeks it seemed the Raptors were likely to trade the pick. Now, maybe not.

"I'm feeling less and less that it's an option right now," Colangelo said. "The more we zone in on the prospects of the draft, the more I think we're comfortable keeping the pick. There are several players in this draft that could really help us."

Re: Tyrus Thomas guarantee

Tyrus Thomas' agents, Brian Elfus and Michael Siegel, seeking to quell rumors that their client had shut down his workouts because he had received a promise to be taken by a team with a top-three pick in the upcoming draft, spoke to me Wednesday to set the record straight.

"Tyrus has not nor has he ever been guaranteed a draft selection by the Bulls or any other team," Siegel said.

[BishopMVP]

I'm a little worried about Aldridge's work ethic/drive. Everything I've read on him seems to say that he's a great talent but is a little soft. Last thing the Celtics need is another Marc Blount. If he does slip to 7, I hope the C's can make a trade to land a veteran (pg or C) and a later pick.I'll take Aldridge in a second. He's the only player who excites me. (Well actually Brandon Roy does too, but if we get him he plays the same position as Pierce/Wally/Allen/Green.) The only places we have minutes available are C and PG. I don't like Marcus Williams or Rondo, and think a front-court rotation of Aldridge/Perkins (also had work ethic questioned when we picked him)/Gomes/Jefferson would produce at least 1 all-star level frontcourt player in the future. I don't want them trading away a future chance to compete for a championship just to qualify as like a 6 seed for the next couple years.

Only way I would support a trade down would be if it was a package deal with a Sczerbiak etc. to get a legitimate front-court star (Jermaine O'Neal-level) or if we picked Quincy Douby with our lower pick. That kid will be one of the top 3 players from this draft when all is said and done. I think I saw Villanova play a triangle and two, with the two doubling Douby in the 2nd half of a game this year. I love Quincy Douby.

[law90026]

5. Hawks - Shelden Williams. "Several league sources told Insider in Orlando and Italy that the Hawks had cut a deal with Williams. If so, it's hard to understand. Why cut a deal with a guy who has a 99.9 percent probability of being there at No. 5? "


I think you cut the deal so that Shelden Williams doesn't work out for any other teams. This means they don't get to see Shelden Williams in person and they are less likely to pick him. If the Hawks really really like him, they don't want another team trading up to No. 4 to get him.

[miami_fan]

Raps sent Bonner and Williams for Nesterovic. Offseason seems to be in full swing here shortly. LeBron/Wade/Bosh/Carmelo can all sign new (max)extensions on the first.

Maybe retitle this thread 2006 Draft/Offseason instead of starting another offseason thread?

IF they can just get defense and rebounding out of Rasho, then it is a great trade for the Raptors. Prevents Bosh from having to spend so much time playing against both the 4 and 5 spots of the opposing team.

[miami_fan]

I'm really interested to see what the Celtics do in the draft and this offseason. A full season with Wally World and Pierce should get this team to the playoffs. The C's have some great role players in D. West, Perkins, Tony Allen, and Ryan Gomes. If Al Jefferson and Gerald Green improve this team should be anywhere from first to third in the Atlantic.
The Celts are expecting Jefferson to be much better. They hired Clifford Ray as an assistant coach. Ray has a pretty good record working with young big man.

[General Mike]

Only way I would support a trade down would be if it was a package deal with a Sczerbiak etc. to get a legitimate front-court star (Jermaine O'Neal-level) or if we picked Quincy Douby with our lower pick. That kid will be one of the top 3 players from this draft when all is said and done. I think I saw Villanova play a triangle and two, with the two doubling Douby in the 2nd half of a game this year. I love Quincy Douby.

I love Douby too. I honestly think the best place for Douby is Cleveland, since LeBron can run the point, they can get away with 2 smaller guards. Douby will be decent wherever he goes tho, since he can create his own shot, and led the Big East in scoring despite being triple teamed constantly.

[stevew]

Larry Brown-Officially Fired. Isiah to take over(As expected).

[Young Drachma]

Larry Brown is out. It's official. Isiah Thomas is in.

[wade moore]

Photo finish........

stevew by a nose hair!

[albionmoonlight]

Larry Brown-Officially Fired. Isiah to take over(As expected).Larry Brown is out. It's official. Isiah Thomas is in.Today is one of the happier days in UIC history.

[Sublime 2]

According to Chad Ford the Nuggets are looking to deal K-Mart (to TWolves or Knicks) and Andre Miller (to the Celtics). They want to clear cap and move up in the draft. Miller is better than any of the PGs in this draft so I'm not completely against it as a Celtics fan.

[st.cronin]

I like Andre Miller's game a LOT. I would be all for that move.

[stevew]

Andre Miller is a really good player. I wish they would have been able to keep him, instead of trading him for Dumbass Miles.

[Sublime 2]

I like Andre Miller's game a LOT. I would be all for that move.

I agree, D. West could then play either pg or sg for the second unit.

[rkmsuf]

You could argue the Delonte West if healthy is almost a wash with Miller. And West is a better shooter.

[stevew]

You could argue the Delonte West if healthy is almost a wash with Miller. And West is a better shooter.

Miller is a horrible 3 point shooter, but otherwise his numbers are comparable or better. Miller averages about 4 more assists a game. I guess West could get to that level with a bit more work.

[rkmsuf]

Miller is a horrible 3 point shooter, but otherwise his numbers are comparable or better. Miller averages about 4 more assists a game. I guess West could get to that level with a bit more work.

I say give West the minutes. They don't need to take on Miller's salary and give up whatever they would have to give up to get him.

The only thing that concerns me about West is durability. Otherwise he's fine.

[st.cronin]

I don't like West that much. I don't see him as a starting point guard on a good team.

[stevew]

I say give West the minutes. They don't need to take on Miller's salary and give up whatever they would have to give up to get him.

The only thing that concerns me about West is durability. Otherwise he's fine.

Still, one's a pg on a playoff team, and the other on a lottery team.

[rkmsuf]

Still, one's a pg on a playoff team, and the other on a lottery team.

So? Kid was essentially a rookie last year.

I say trade Pierce anyway...but that's just me. By the time the C's get any good he'll be broken down. And we've pretty much established he isn't a #1 type guy and struggles mightily to fit into a #2 role. He's essentially useless in their quest to be a title contender. Trade him while you can get something for him.

[stevew]

I say trade Pierce anyway...but that's just me. By the time the C's get any good he'll be broken down. And we've pretty much established he isn't a #1 type guy and struggles mightily to fit into a #2 role. He's essentially useless in their quest to be a title contender. Trade him while you can get something for him.

I agree with you here.

[Karlifornia]

Richard Jefferson is a great player. I believe Sublime 2 said that he benefits purely because of the Kidd effect. While Kidd makes any player better, Jefferson's athletic ability is nearly unmatched. I was fortunate to see enough to be able to catch his games when he played at Arizona. He, like Gilbert Arenas, was often the best, and most athletic player on the floor.

Arizona's players are amazing, more often than not.

[BishopMVP]

I like Andre Miller's game a LOT. I would be all for that move.Hmmmm.... I like Miller's game from a numbers standpoint and think he would make the Celtics better, but he has a mad ugly game. Between him and Pierce I don't know if I could stand to watch any games.

[bulletsponge]

According to Chad Ford the Nuggets are looking to deal K-Mart (to TWolves or Knicks) and Andre Miller (to the Celtics). They want to clear cap and move up in the draft. Miller is better than any of the PGs in this draft so I'm not completely against it as a Celtics fan.

K-mart to the knicks, omg that would be so funny if it happened

[Swaggs]

Maybe I will declare myself an NBA free agent fan and follow whoever drafts Gansey and/or Pittsnogle.

[st.cronin]

K-mart to the knicks, omg that would be so funny if it happened

Andre Miller to the Knicks would almost make more sense. Then they could play:

pg Miller
sg Marbury
sf Francis
pf Frye
c Curry

That lineup might actually work.

[Sublime 2]

Hmmmm.... I like Miller's game from a numbers standpoint and think he would make the Celtics better, but he has a mad ugly game. Between him and Pierce I don't know if I could stand to watch any games.

I'm confused, what's so ugly about Pierce's game?

[rkmsuf]

Andre Miller to the Knicks would almost make more sense. Then they could play:

pg Miller
sg Marbury
sf Francis
pf Frye
c Curry

That lineup might actually work.

they might win 20 games

[Coffee Warlord]

The Knicks REALLY want that 1st overall pick next year. I support them fully in their quest.

....so they can give it right to the Bulls.

[BishopMVP]

I'm confused, what's so ugly about Pierce's game?It's gotten better last season, but the one on one iso, 8 pump fakes, drive, get fouled and throw both hands up not even attempting to go for the and 1 move. Kinda like D-Wade in the finals (or LeBron/Arenas before that.)

Don't get me started on Wally. If there was video of KG punching him out at practice I would have it as my screensaver.

[Sublime 2]

It's gotten better last season, but the one on one iso, 8 pump fakes, drive, get fouled and throw both hands up not even attempting to go for the and 1 move. Kinda like D-Wade in the finals (or LeBron/Arenas before that.)

Don't get me started on Wally. If there was video of KG punching him out at practice I would have it as my screensaver.

I think part of the 1v1 iso crap from a couple years ago was due to the fact he had no trust in his teammates, nor did he have any reason to trust them. I think Pierce is at his best when he's attacking the rim, he goes as hard as anyone (save maybe AI) to the rack, and draws a lot of fouls.

Wally, when healthy, is certainly not the best #2 option but I think he's a good deal better than Ricky Davis was.

[Groundhog]

Andre Miller is a really good player. I wish they would have been able to keep him, instead of trading him for Dumbass Miles.

Absolutely. I loved Miller when he was here. Cleveland has had a number of PGs I've really liked over the years. Price-Brandon-Knight-Miller... and now, I'd love to have either of those last two back.

[BishopMVP]

I think part of the 1v1 iso crap from a couple years ago was due to the fact he had no trust in his teammates, nor did he have any reason to trust them. I think Pierce is at his best when he's attacking the rim, he goes as hard as anyone (save maybe AI) to the rack, and draws a lot of fouls.Oh, I don't blame him at all. For all the shit he (and Antoine) got for iso'ing it gave the team the best chance to win - and will in the future if they keep calling touch fouls on every drive. But what's best for the team isn't always what's most exciting and it's not fun to watch. Any player who scores more than half his points at the free throw line is a sympton of what is wrong with the NBA and why my interest in it has been declining compared to college.

[miami_fan]

Andrea Bargnani
LaMarcus Aldridge
Tyrus Thomas
Adam Morrison
Brandon Roy
Rudy Gay
Shelden Williams
Randy Foye
Marcus Williams
J.J. Redick
Cedric Simmons
Patrick O'Bryant
Ronnie Brewer
Rodney Carney
Hilton Armstrong

Why do I get the feeling that J.J. is going to get the Aaron Rodgers treatment?

[miami_fan]

Is this the sign of the Raptors picking Andrea Bargnani?

Associated Press


TORONTO -- The Toronto Raptors hired Maurizio Gherardini, who built one of the most successful professional basketball teams in Europe, as the club's vice president and assistant general manager Thursday.

The Italian Gherardini becomes the first European to hold a senior management position with an NBA franchise.

"We are thrilled to have a globally esteemed basketball executive like Maurizio Gherardini join the Toronto Raptors," Raptors president and GM Bryan Colangelo said in a statement. "This is a ground-breaking move for the league, appropriately with the NBA's only true international franchise."

And next week, the Raptors might select one of his Benetton Treviso players with the first pick in the draft.

Andrea Bargnani led Gherardini's former team Benetton Treviso to the Italian Lega A championship earlier this week. The 6-foot-11 star forward is expected to be among the first few names picked in next Wednesday's NBA draft.

"We have enjoyed an unbelievable season, we just won the championship two nights ago and Andrea Bargnani of course was a key element for such a success," Gherardini said . "I know pretty much the kind of player and the kind of person he is."

"On the other hand, right now the question is the best decision the Raptors can make in the draft coming up."

Gherardini built Benetton Treviso into one of the most recognizable basketball organizations outside the NBA.

The 51-year-old led Benetton to four league championships, seven Italian Cups, three Italian supercups, two Eurocups and four appearances in the Euroleague's final four.

Gherardini joined Benetton in 1992, and under his guidance, the club's become a training ground in Europe and a destination for NBA personnel to scout players.

[ThunderingHERD]

Interesting post on Chad Ford's blog today:

Promises for Aldridge and Roy?posted: Thursday, June 22, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry

Michael Jordan got a rude welcome back to the NBA on Thursday.

It was his first full day in Charlotte as co-owner of the Bobcats, and he had planned a big predraft workout with Tyrus Thomas, LaMarcus Aldridge, Brandon Roy and Rudy Gay.

Michael was there. But of the four prospects, only Gay showed.

According to the Bobcats, Thomas (groin), Aldridge (ankle) and Roy (hamstring) all claimed injuries kept them from working out for His Airness.

However, injuries apparently were not the real reason, at least for Aldridge and Roy.

Arn Tellem, who is the agent for both Aldridge and Roy, told me Thursday evening that while Roy had "a slight hamstring issue," injuries were not the reason his clients didn't show.

"They didn't show because I'm very comfortable where they're going in the draft," Tellem said.

Asked if that meant that a specific team had committed to taking them, Tellem said, "I know where they're going, yes."

As you would expect, Tellem wasn't as forthcoming about exactly which teams would select Aldridge and Roy, but he did tell me that both players were done working out.

But why not work out for the No. 3 team in the draft?

Does that mean Aldridge and Roy are going No. 1 and No. 2?

Not necessarily, according to Tellem.

"I've never been caught up on the number of where a guy goes," Tellem said. "It's about finding the right situation for our clients. In this case, we've found a good fit for both of them, so there's no need for them to work out for anyone else."

Does that mean Tellem would discourage other teams from drafting Aldridge or Roy?

"I don't think it will get to that," Tellem said. "Both are going very high. But if that needs to happen, I'll do it."

Considering the rumors that Thomas already has a promise (which his agents vehemently deny), something strange is happening.

How can all of these guys have promises?

Combine those reports with Tellem's confirmation of the rumor that Duke's Shelden Williams also has a "high promise," and that means three or four guys are off the board in the early stages of the lottery, potentially.

If the reports are true, either someone took a promise later in the lottery than expected or one of these guys thinks he's going higher than he is.

Even if you doubt Thomas has a promise, you still have to fit those other three into the picture somewhere at the top, if they indeed have promises.

Here's what we think we know:

Toronto said as of late Wednesday that its decision was still "wide open." I don't think the Raptors have promised anyone anything -- it wouldn't make much sense for the team holding the No. 1 pick to have made a promise.

Also on Wednesday, a Bulls source denied making a deal with Thomas and said they were still deciding what to do with the No. 2 pick.

Certainly it appears the Bobcats, picking No. 3, haven't made a promise. To think they've made a promise to Aldridge or Roy, we'd have to believe they had Jordan come down to Charlotte and go through an elaborate ruse with the the complicity of several players and agents.

The Blazers, who have the No. 4 pick, have been widely thought to be after Adam Morrison, not Aldridge or Roy.

The Hawks, holding the No. 5 pick, are widely believed to be the team that has made a promise to draft Williams.

All in all, it's far from clear what this new information from Tellem means for the draft.

I can only speculate, but here are three scenarios that make some sense:

1. Let's say the Bulls have decided to draft Roy at No. 2 or they've agreed to a trade and are taking Roy for another team. The Lakers have been after Roy and there's been a lot of speculation about Lamar Odom coming to Chicago in such a trade.

And let's say the Blazers have decided that getting an interior presence like LaMarcus Aldridge, who can play some center, is more important drafting than a fan favorite like Adam Morrison. Aldridge, in this scenario, would know he's not going to Chicago and would figure he can get more playing time in Portland than in Charlotte, which has a crowded frontcourt.

2. Or the situation could be reversed, with the Bulls deciding to take Aldridge and the Blazers wanting Roy. But in that scenario, I can't understand why Roy or his agent would think that the Blazers would be a better fit than the Bobcats.

3. There has been talk of Houston moving up a few spots in the draft to No. 5 or No. 6 in exchange for Luther Head and the No. 8 pick. If that happens, the Rockets could be moving up to nab Roy. Remember, his agent, Tellem, also negotiated the trade that got Tracy McGrady, another Tellem client, to Houston, and Tellem may be trying to deliver another vital player to help T-Mac in his title quest.

Tellem's information adds up to a potential problem for Charlotte, which might have to either select between players who haven't worked out for Jordan -- including Aldridge, Roy, Thomas and Morrison -- or take Rudy Gay, who has worked out for Jordan but is thought not to be his first choice.

In fact, Thursday's turn of events was enough to tick off Bobcats GM Bernie Bickerstaff, who said he was "frustrated" by the wave of cancelations.

"Bottom line, we're just not happy with the way things went down,'' he told the Charlotte Observer.

The draft just got a whole lot more mysterious, folks.

[stevew]

Cavs supposedly gave a first round promise to PG Daniel Gibson from Texas. At least that's what the rumor for him is. And why he stayed in the draft.

[miami_fan]

I don't know why but the thought of MJ conducting a workout and being the final authority on this year's draft bothers me. I understand that he is now the boss in the Bobcats organization but it would seem that it is a bit late in the process for him to be involved. Of course he could have been evaluating talent and studying game film on the draftees. That just seems unlikely to me.

[bulletsponge]

i heard the draft was soon? when is the draft happening?

[miami_fan]

Wednesday at 7et

[stevew]

I don't know why but the thought of MJ conducting a workout and being the final authority on this year's draft bothers me. I understand that he is now the boss in the Bobcats organization but it would seem that it is a bit late in the process for him to be involved. Of course he could have been evaluating talent and studying game film on the draftees. That just seems unlikely to me.

Eh, He's in a race with Isiah to see how many franchises he can ruin.

[sterlingice]

That whole Chad Ford piece was just a bit freaky. "I have promises for my guys so they won't go work out for another team that could pick them"

SI

[Groundhog]

It's not that mysterious. What Tellem has done is just raised the draft stock of a few players; Shelden Williams most of all.

[stevew]

The difference in the rookie salary scale are not that substantial. If you can get your guy definitely going somewhere, a good situation, it's probably worth forgoing a couple hundred grand a year you'd get by getting picked one or two spots earlier.

[sterlingice]

The difference in the rookie salary scale are not that substantial. If you can get your guy definitely going somewhere, a good situation, it's probably worth forgoing a couple hundred grand a year you'd get by getting picked one or two spots earlier.

Yeah, but the whole point of the draft is so that bad teams get better by getting the best players. Not so that an agent can find his clients the best spots for them.

SI

[Groundhog]

Yeah, but the whole point of the draft is so that bad teams get better by getting the best players. Not so that an agent can find his clients the best spots for them.

SI

Exactly, which is why most GMs are probably ignoring this nonsense. If I were GM of the Bobcats I wouldn't care what this agent is saying. You may not have got the chance to get a workout with these guys, but you know who the top 5 players in the draft are; just take the one you want the most and don't give a rat's ass what their agent has planned.

[ThunderingHERD]

Looks like Tellem <i>is</i> trying to get Roy in Houson:

Tyrus Thomas met with Rockets officials in Houston on Friday. On Saturday, Brandon Roy is flying into town for a workout.

That's interesting news for a team slated to draft No. 8 -- well below where both players are projected to go.

It's especially interesting for Roy, considering his agent, Arn Tellem, told us on Thursday that Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge were shutting down the rest of their workouts because, Tellem said, he was "very comfortable where they're going in the draft."

Asked if that meant that a specific team had committed to taking them, Tellem said, "I know where they're going, yes."

Why the reversal? Or is it a reversal at all?

Insider first reported on Thursday that there has been talk of Houston's moving up a few spots in the draft to No. 5 or No. 6 in exchange for Luther Head and the No. 8 pick.

Roy was caught by a reporter from the Seattle Times in the airport late Thursday and basically confirmed the story.

"It's kind of a last-minute decision,'' Roy said. "[Houston] is trying to work a trade to get into the top five or six and they want to see me one last time.''

It's easy to see why Tellem would want Roy in Houston -- even if it means slipping a few spots in the draft.

The Rockets have a need, and the team should be a winner if Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming stay healthy. The fact that McGrady is also a client of Tellem, who would like to help T-Mac win a title, is also a factor.

Friday evening, I talked to a Rockets source, who confirmed they have been trying to move up in the draft.

"We've talked to teams about moving up, down and out of the draft completely," the source told me. "Would we like to move up to grab a guy like Thomas or Roy? Sure. I'm just not sure if it's going to be possible."

So were the Rockets the team that made a promise to Roy?

"We don't do promises," the source said. "We just don't believe in them."

Even if true, that doesn't mean that Tellem and the Rockets aren't trying to make something happen.

But if it does, we probably won't know about it until the draft begins and we find out if Roy is available at No. 5 or No. 6.

[stevew]

Yeah, but the whole point of the draft is so that bad teams get better by getting the best players. Not so that an agent can find his clients the best spots for them.

SI

The agent is doing his job, which is to put his client in the best possible situation. Whatever the point of the draft is or is supposed to be, is irrelevant. If a team wants a guy, they can still take him. If the guy doesn't want to be in a particular situation, he can try to get out. I'm sure you are very familiar with a high profile draft selection crying in order to get out of a "franchise" he did not want to be in.

[sterlingice]

The agent is doing his job, which is to put his client in the best possible situation. Whatever the point of the draft is or is supposed to be, is irrelevant. If a team wants a guy, they can still take him. If the guy doesn't want to be in a particular situation, he can try to get out. I'm sure you are very familiar with a high profile draft selection crying in order to get out of a "franchise" he did not want to be in.
Ugh, yeah :( That never did sit well with me. Then again, anyone draft jumping (see: Manning, Eli, et al) just bugs me. Go play for the damn team that drafted you and if you don't like it, you can change in a few years.

SI

[law90026]

Ugh, yeah :( That never did sit well with me. Then again, anyone draft jumping (see: Manning, Eli, et al) just bugs me. Go play for the damn team that drafted you and if you don't like it, you can change in a few years.

SI

I dunno. While I dislike the fact that some rookies use their clout or threats to get out of a situation they don't like, it's not totally stupid on their parts.

American Football: No. 1 Draftpicks who are QBs often suffer. Their team sucks, more often than not they get beaten up badly because of a poor O-line, and they are over scrutinised. All this for a few more million dollars? I think it's valid to consider whether it's worth it.

NBA: Picked to play on a lousy team if you're a high draft pick. How often does this work out though? Some players become burdened with expectation and never pan out (though perhaps its partly bad scouting). A wise rookie might consider being taken a little lower to learn from vets.

More importantly, drafts are totally not akin to the real world, where one can choose where to work. In essence, an athlete is being force to work for an employer, whether he likes them or not. It's just a little odd to me and I can see why an athlete might not be happy going to a particular place.

[sterlingice]

I dunno. While I dislike the fact that some rookies use their clout or threats to get out of a situation they don't like, it's not totally stupid on their parts.

American Football: No. 1 Draftpicks who are QBs often suffer. Their team sucks, more often than not they get beaten up badly because of a poor O-line, and they are over scrutinised. All this for a few more million dollars? I think it's valid to consider whether it's worth it.

NBA: Picked to play on a lousy team if you're a high draft pick. How often does this work out though? Some players become burdened with expectation and never pan out (though perhaps its partly bad scouting). A wise rookie might consider being taken a little lower to learn from vets.

More importantly, drafts are totally not akin to the real world, where one can choose where to work. In essence, an athlete is being force to work for an employer, whether he likes them or not. It's just a little odd to me and I can see why an athlete might not be happy going to a particular place.

I think the bolded part is the most important tho for reasons different than you stated. I'm sorry, but I just don't have much sympathy for a rookie coming out and having to play somewhere for a couple of years. The point of view above seems to take only the player's point of view into account.

Yes, they might be forced to play somewhere where they are not happy. Doesn't matter- that's the rules and there's a reason they are set up that way and it's for the good of the league. You're the new guy in the league and on the team so you get to abide by them. As the new guy who's not the most full fledged union member, who hasn't put in his time- you're subject to the more stringent rules and they're not overly oppressive. If your situation is bad, you can change it in a couple of years, but as a draftee, you go where you're supposed to go. No "I won't play or have crazy demands because I'm going to a bad team or something that's not a perfect fit".

SI

[Logan]

More importantly, drafts are totally not akin to the real world, where one can choose where to work. In essence, an athlete is being force to work for an employer, whether he likes them or not. It's just a little odd to me and I can see why an athlete might not be happy going to a particular place.

Not entirely true. An athlete chooses to work for an employer (NBA), who then assigns them to a team through its draft process. If someone wanted to, there are other leagues they could go play in where they would essentially be a free agent right away.

Just making the point...

[Sublime 2]

Latest rumor I've heard is that the Sixers had contacted the Celtics about a possible trade, somehow Utah got involved as well:

Celtics receive:
Allen Iverson

Sixers receive:
Carlos Boozer

Utah receives:
Wally Szczerbiak

There would obviously be other players involved, but I'm not sure how I (as a C's fan) would feel. I do like AI, but I'd have to hope he wouldn't stunt the growth of our young guys. To me it seems that Utah loses out talent-wise. I'm sure this is just GMs talking and nothing serious now but any thoughts?

[Crapshoot]

Ugh, yeah :( That never did sit well with me. Then again, anyone draft jumping (see: Manning, Eli, et al) just bugs me. Go play for the damn team that drafted you and if you don't like it, you can change in a few years.

SI

Ugh - why ? I don't get drafted and assigned to a specific company. I think its perfectly within a guy's rights to have some control over where he ends up living.

[rkmsuf]

Latest rumor I've heard is that the Sixers had contacted the Celtics about a possible trade, somehow Utah got involved as well:

Celtics receive:
Allen Iverson

Sixers receive:
Carlos Boozer

Utah receives:
Wally Szczerbiak

There would obviously be other players involved, but I'm not sure how I (as a C's fan) would feel. I do like AI, but I'd have to hope he wouldn't stunt the growth of our young guys. To me it seems that Utah loses out talent-wise. I'm sure this is just GMs talking and nothing serious now but any thoughts?

I would never, ever want AI on the C's. Guy is a complete turkey.

Talented for sure but will never win a title.

[stevew]

Latest rumor I've heard is that the Sixers had contacted the Celtics about a possible trade, somehow Utah got involved as well:

Celtics receive:
Allen Iverson

Sixers receive:
Carlos Boozer

Utah receives:
Wally Szczerbiak

There would obviously be other players involved, but I'm not sure how I (as a C's fan) would feel. I do like AI, but I'd have to hope he wouldn't stunt the growth of our young guys. To me it seems that Utah loses out talent-wise. I'm sure this is just GMs talking and nothing serious now but any thoughts?

Boozer is not as great as his numbers suggest. For starters he is an ABCE player. Plus he's been pretty injury prone.

[albionmoonlight]

Boozer is not as great as his numbers suggest. For starters he is an ABCE player. Plus he's been pretty injury prone.

ABCE Player?

[heybrad]

No D?

[albionmoonlight]

No D?

Ah. That makes sense. Thank you.

[bulletsponge]

I would never, ever want AI on the C's. Guy is a complete turkey.

Talented for sure but will never win a title.


agreed with the AI. such an overrated player. not only does he suck as a point guard and has no clue how to run a team as one, his stats are misleading. any decent player can get his points if they take as many shots as he does, even if they dont get the prefered treatment ai gets from the refs. if he was on my team id ship him out for a can of tuna as soon as some idiot gm came calling.

[sovereignstar]

if he was on my team id ship him out for a can of tuna as soon as some idiot gm came calling.

I wonder why you aren't a GM.

[MikeVic]

It seemed like AI improved recently... at least in the last couple of years in APG...thought he improved his FG% the last couple of years too.

But I'm still torn on him. He plays with such heart, but he is not a proven winner. And the more that goes on, the more one starts to think he really can't be the #1 guy on a winning team...

Although when they made the Finals, it's hard to say he wasn't a big reason why.

[bulletsponge]

Originally Posted by bulletsponge
if he was on my team id ship him out for a can of tuna as soon as some idiot gm came calling.


I wonder why you aren't a GM

well i did mean that figurativly. i know you can get some talent from trading him. the 76ers should try to get draft picks for him.

[Swaggs]

Isn't it easier to say, "No D" than to say "ABCE player?"

[miami_fan]

It seemed like AI improved recently... at least in the last couple of years in APG...thought he improved his FG% the last couple of years too.

But I'm still torn on him. He plays with such heart, but he is not a proven winner. And the more that goes on, the more one starts to think he really can't be the #1 guy on a winning team...

Although when they made the Finals, it's hard to say he wasn't a big reason why.

Arguably the last two seasons were AI's most complete seasons. From all accounts the Olympic experience in Greece really affected him as far as his on court play. Not sure about the deal though. I don't know how AI and Pierce will work.

[Logan]

Isn't it easier to say, "No D" than to say "ABCE player?"

But how else would you show how witty you are?

[BishopMVP]

It seemed like AI improved recently... at least in the last couple of years in APG...thought he improved his FG% the last couple of years too.

But I'm still torn on him. He plays with such heart, but he is not a proven winner. And the more that goes on, the more one starts to think he really can't be the #1 guy on a winning team...Huh? :confused: NBA-Title winning, sure, but the Sixers have been doing real well under Iverson's reign. The only time he was paired with a good big (Mutumbo, Webber was overrated by the time he got there) he made the NBA Finals. I can see the argument that you can't build a team around the perimeter and hope to win (Hakeem, Duncan, Shaq won every title except Detroit's) but IMO put him with Shaq and Iverson would be getting as much publicity/respect as Wade/Kobe do. He's certainly well above the Marbury/Francis level and no player in the league has more heart on the court than AI does.

I'm not really sure how he'd work with Pierce, but if we could get him for primarily Sczerbiak and not give up Pierce/Jefferson/Green/the #7 pick/Perkins/West you've got to do it. The other rumor I heard surrounding Wally was a package deal (probably including the #7) for KG, which would be more interesting.

[Sublime 2]

With the draft about 24 hours away, I figured I'd throw up my top 10 mock draft as I see it now, not including trades.

1. Raptors - Andrea Bargnani
2. Bulls - LeMarcus Aldridge
3. Bobcats - Rudy Gay
4. Blazers - Adam Morrison
5. Hawks - Shelden Williams
6. Wolves - Brandon Roy
7. Celtics - Randy Foye
8. Rockets - Tyrus Thomas
9. Warriors - Rodney Carney
10. Sonics - Cedric Simmons

This draft could go tons of different directions, and so I do see some trades happening but there's no way I could forecast much of anything.

[Groundhog]

Here's mine for the entire first round:

1 - Raptors - Andrea Bargnani
2 - Bulls - Tyrus Thomas
3 - Bobcats - Adam Morrison
4 - Blazers - Brandon Roy
5 - Hawks - Shelden Williams
6 - Wolves - Rudy Gay
7 - Celtics - Randy Foye
8 - Rockets - Marcus Williams
9 - Warriors - LaMarcus Aldridge
10 - Sonics - Patrick O'Bryant
11 - Magic - Ronnie Brewer
12 - Hornets - Rodney Carney
13 - Sixers - Shannon Brown
14 - Jazz - Hilton Armstrong
15 - Hornets - Cedric Simmons
16 - Bulls - Saer Sene
17 - Pacers - Rajon Rondo
18 - Wizards - Josh Boone
19 - Kings - J.J. Redick
20 - Knicks - Kyle Lowry
21 - Suns - Thabo Sefolosha
22 - Nets - Jordan Farmar
23 - Nets - Shawne Williams
24 - Grizzlies - Quincy Douby
25 - Cavaliers - Dee Brown
26 - Lakers - Mardy Collins
27 - Suns - Joel Freeland
28 - Mavs - Oleksiy Pecherov
29 - Knicks - Hassan Adams
30 - Blazers - Maurice Ager

[Neuqua]

Oh! I wanna play!


1 - Raptors - Andrea Bargnani
2 - Bulls - Lamarcus Aldridge
3 - Bobcats - Adam Morrison
4 - Blazers - Brandon Roy
5 - Hawks - Shelden Williams
6 - Wolves - Rudy Gay
7 - Celtics - Randy Foye
8 - Rockets - Tyrus Thomas
9 - Warriors - LaMarcus Aldridge
10 - Sonics - Patrick O'Bryant
11 - Magic - Ronnie Brewer
12 - Hornets - Rodney Carney
13 - Sixers - Marcus Williams
14 - Jazz - Hilton Armstrong
15 - Hornets - Cedric Simmons
16 - Bulls - Saer Sene

[Groundhog]

Oh! I wanna play!

That Aldridge is so versatile that he can play on two teams, wow! ;)

[miami_fan]

1. Raptors - Andrea Bargnani
2. Bulls - Tyrus Thomas
3. Bobcats - Adam Morrison
4. Blazers - Rudy Gay
5. Hawks - LaMarcus Aldridge
6. Wolves - Brandon Roy
7. Celtics - Randy Foye
8. Rockets - Marcus Williams
9. Warriors - Patrick O'Bryant
10. Sonics - Shelden Williams

I expect the Celtics trade their pick.

[miami_fan]

What is the true deal on Patrick O'Bryant? I saw 1 or 2 games with him during the season and then saw him dominate against Pittsburgh. I am looking at his game by game numbers and I am not really impressed. Other than being seven foot tall and that Pitt game, what is his claim to being a potential top ten pick in the draft?

[Groundhog]

What is the true deal on Patrick O'Bryant? I saw 1 or 2 games with him during the season and then saw him dominate against Pittsburgh. I am looking at his game by game numbers and I am not really impressed. Other than being seven foot tall and that Pitt game, what is his claim to being a potential top ten pick in the draft?

Bingo. He is 7 foot tall and has 'potential'. He has BUST written all over him, but someone will bite.

[bulletsponge]

Bingo. He is 7 foot tall and has 'potential'. He has BUST written all over him, but someone will bite.

hes the next Greg Ostertag?

[bselig]

Even though he has effectively no offensive game, I'd rather have Saer Sene then O'Bryant. At least he has some sort of defensive potential, ala a Diop, whereas O'Bryant looks like Chris Marcus.

Also, a friend of a friend of a friend claims to have known O'Bryant and says he's a douche.

[MikeVic]

Even though he has effectively no offensive game, I'd rather have Saer Sene then O'Bryant. At least he has some sort of defensive potential, ala a Diop, whereas O'Bryant looks like Chris Marcus.

Also, a friend of a friend of a friend claims to have known O'Bryant and says he's a douche.

You're a douche, Bud Selig!

[bselig]

You're a douche, Bud Selig!

http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/8051/bselig134ln.jpg

[Sublime 2]

Appears the Celtics are trading #7 and Dickau for Sebastian Telfair. Does this mean Portland is trying to move up to #1 for #4 and #7? Makes this draft a little less fun if the C's have no picks but I'll still watch. I think Telfair will be a good player and his pass first mentality is something lacking on the C's.

The AI deal to Celtics continues to build steam, Cleveland now being the possible third team involved. I don't mind seeing Jefferson go, but I want to keep Gerald Green if the deal goes down.

[Sublime 2]

dola

The deal actually appears to be #7, Dickau, and LaFrentz for Ratliff and Telfair. If this is the case, I think the Celtics robbed the Blazers. Thank God Raef could be gone!!!!

[Coffee Warlord]

Please please PLEASE draft Roy, bulls.

No more children big men. No mas. Just say no.

[sovereignstar]

Appears the Celtics are trading #7 and Dickau for Sebastian Telfair. Does this mean Portland is trying to move up to #1 for #4 and #7? Makes this draft a little less fun if the C's have no picks but I'll still watch. I think Telfair will be a good player and his pass first mentality is something lacking on the C's.

#4 and #7 for #1 in this draft would be pretty stupid.

[Coffee Warlord]

#4 and #7 for #1 in this draft would be pretty stupid.

Sounds like something the Knicks would do. :)

[Sublime 2]

I think they want Morrison bad, they are afraid the Bobcats might take him at 3.

[Neuqua]

I'd consider #2 and #16 for #4 and #7

[sovereignstar]

I'd consider #2 and #16 for #4 and #7

That would work out pretty nicely. Bulls should do that if they have the chance.

[Neuqua]

I want Roy but I wouldn't be too upset with one of the bigs. Truthfully, if we don't draft one of the bigs in the draft, then we may be stuck with a guy like Nazr or Joel Pryzbilla next to Tyson and I don't see how that is going to be anymore beneficial.

I'm hoping Paxson has something in mind, with some of his moves in the past I do consider him one of the top talent evaluators in the league.

[JeeberD]

The new, rubber ball is official...

http://www.nba.com/news/blackbox_060628.html

[ThunderingHERD]

Please please PLEASE draft Roy, bulls.

No more children big men. No mas. Just say no.

John Paxson says they're split between Thomas, Aldridge, and Bargnani. I gu ess we'll find out soon enough.

[JeeberD]

Dickie V is on the broadcast?

Automatic mute...

[Groundhog]

dola

The deal actually appears to be #7, Dickau, and LaFrentz for Ratliff and Telfair. If this is the case, I think the Celtics robbed the Blazers. Thank God Raef could be gone!!!!

The Celtics got rid of LaFrentz?! Wow. That is just an awful trade for the Blazers - depending on who is there at #7, assuming they don't move up. They could wind up with a decent PG at #7 and a guy like Roy at #4.

[miami_fan]

Vitale does not bother me at all EXCEPT during the draft. Why is there always some new world order conspiracy whenever an international player is rated highly?

[Groundhog]

Well, it's Bargnani. I'm 1 of 1, so far. :D

[Groundhog]

...or maybe not? I'm following the ESPN Draft Cast and it had Bargnani, and then it took his name off and says Toronto now has 2 more mins...

[miami_fan]

The Heat don't have a pick this year so I have to find teams to be interested in during the draft. The teams I am watching this year are the Bulls, the Timberwolves, and the Lakers. I like the makeup of the current Bulls and want to see what they do to improve that team. What will the T'Wolves do to help KG if they don't trade him? The Lakers are the team I am really looking forward to. The Bynum pick was supposed to be a good pick because they were not going to be good for 2-3 years and they could wait on him. Well they were better than they expected to be. Are they looking for a player to help them in a year or two or a guy with less potential who is going to help them right now.

[Groundhog]

Bulls grab Aldridge... darn, he was my pick to slide.

[Groundhog]

Actually, looks like Bulls made trade Aldridge to Blazers for #4 and Kyrapa.

[miami_fan]

We did pick where we thought the players would end up and not where they would be picked right?;)

[ThunderingHERD]

Fucking bullshit. Terrible, terrible pick.

[sovereignstar]

Well, the T-wolves have their pick of Gay or Foye now.

[bselig]

Okafor/May/Morrison, athletic monsters up front!

[Groundhog]

2 outta 3... now Bulls take Tyrus Thomas.

[Groundhog]

Fucking bullshit. Terrible, terrible pick.

I disagree. This white boy will be up there in the RotY voting.

[Groundhog]

And Thomas it is. Now things get interesting with Atlanta... do they grab Shelden like everyone has been saying they will?

[bselig]

I gotta wonder...Will Morrison even deserve to start over Gerald Wallce? I find it unlikely, he was pretty sick on both ends last year. And I'd cringe to see him bang with NBA PFs.

[sovereignstar]

I gotta wonder...Will Morrison even deserve to start over Gerald Wallce? I find it unlikely, he was pretty sick on both ends last year. And I'd cringe to see him bang with NBA PFs.

power forwards???

[Crapshoot]

I gotta wonder...Will Morrison even deserve to start over Gerald Wallce? I find it unlikely, he was pretty sick on both ends last year. And I'd cringe to see him bang with NBA PFs.

He's playing the 3 in the NBA for sure - I don't think anyone sees him as a 4.

[Groundhog]

Gerald Wallace will be more likely to play SG I'd imagine.

[ThunderingHERD]

Uh, there is NO way Morrison would even be considered to start over GW. I'm assuming they'll try to start Morrison at SG, though.

[miami_fan]

Bobcats defintely made a need pick. They need someone who can score on the frontline. I am guessing they would rather have Wallace come off the bench. This also tells me that Bickerstaff is still calling the shots. This pick follows his MO from the previous years. Starter from a high profile program.

[JeeberD]

Well, the T-wolves have their pick of Gay or Foye now.

Foye plz k thx.


I'm gay for Gay.

[Groundhog]

The poll on the ESPN cast is "Who will lead the bobcats in scoring?".

Morrison leads at 52%, then Okafor at 31% and Wallace at 17%.