ClutchFans Rockets Draft Thread (Rockets select Luther Head at 24)

[Clutch]

UPDATE: Commentary from when the Rockets picked Luther Head <a href="http://bbs.clutchfans.net/showthread.php?p=1900686">starts here</a>

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2005 NBA Draft - Tuesday, June 28th
(Rockets hold the 24th pick of the first round)

On Deck: Rockets Prepare for NBA Draft (http://www.clutchfans.net/news.cfm?newsID=1218)

<a href="http://www.clutchfans.net/chat.cfm"><img src="http://www.clutchfans.net/graphics/draft_chat_2005.gif" border="0"></a>

The draft is Tuesday, June 28th, with the draft preview show starting at 6:00pm Houston time on ESPN. The live ClutchFans chat (http://www.clutchfans.net/chat.cfm) also begins at 6:00pm and should be a lot of fun, as it is every year. On draft ngiht, feel free to also discuss the Rocket perspective of the draft in this thread.

Make Your Pick
This is also your chance to become a BBS legend by getting in your Rocket pick right now in print :). Not who you want, but who will we get when all is said and done on Tuesday?

[Pat]

Once again, I have never seen any of the likely picks play. but from what I have read I like Jarrett Jack more and more.

[caffreys_irish_ale]

Once again, I have never seen any of the likely picks play. but from what I have read I like Jarrett Jack more and more.

Get your vids here:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/prospects

I have a feeling the 24th pick will be traded. The Rox are looking for instant impact.

[leroy]

Wayne Simien

[smoothie]

first to post my guess. and that guess is we will draft WINSTON!

6'6 230 athletic but is a really sweet catch and shoot player. has nice handles too. i can see him backing up tmac for 10 minutes a night.

anyway, when we draft him, remember who said it first.

[smoothie]

crap i thought i would be first. well i still say winston!

[caffreys_irish_ale]

crap i thought i would be first. well i still say winston!

You did say it first :p And now you said it twice :p :p

[Qball]

Pick will be traded.

[R=$]

Ronny Turiaf

[Da Wink]

I expect that a trade will be made on draft day and there will be 2 new Rox players. Either a rookie + veteran or 2 rookies (from 1st & 2nd rd)

[HajkoV-BR]

any brazillian player :rolleyes:

[cdastros]

Luther Head

[gucci888]

Draft Wish List:

1. Wayne Simien
2. Ike Diogu
3. Francisco Garcia
4. Julius Hodge
5. Jarett Jack

[m_cable]

Trade up to the mid first round and get either Joey Graham or Ike Diogu. Or both if I had my way.

[The Real Shady]

The rockets will trade up and get Hakim Warrick. He'll bring the rockets more athleticism at the 4.

http://www.paulkatcher.com/images/hakim_warrick.jpg

Plus, any player that can t-bag someone while dunking is impresive.

[Willis25]

crap i thought i would be first. well i still say winston!

I have a bddy that is a bama grad... says Winston has no heart and that the rockets should stay away


... has anyone mentioned Rashad "born to be hated" McCants falling to 24 ?

[LegendZ3]

I want to go with Wayne Simien, but since there is rumor that the Rockets may move up in the draft, I'll pick Ike Diogu.

[Willis25]

I want to go with Wayne Simien, but since there is rumor that the Rockets may move up in the draft, I'll pick Ike Diogu.

where is this alleged rumor about which you speak ! :confused:

[fredyalvarado]

Chris Taft

[Clutch]

Chris Taft

Taft concerns me ... this article was written from a perspective of wanting to keep him in school, but it just doesn't sound inspiring.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/05090/480439.stm

[Deuce]

I think the Rockets will pick Julius Hodge.

Hodge seems like a JVG type player to me. Very tough, plays hard, high BB IQ and can play multiple positions.

[Nero]

It'll be...

Sean May.

[Phillyrocket]

Three predictions:

Rockets will make a trade

They'll draft Julius Hodge

They'll draft someone who's name none of us will be able to pronounce and will never don a Rockets jersey

[KHimmatramka]

The rockets will trade up and get Hakim Warrick. He'll bring the rockets more athleticism at the 4.

http://www.paulkatcher.com/images/hakim_warrick.jpg

Plus, any player that can t-bag someone while dunking is impresive.

I don't know if the Rockets will trade up to get Warrick, but I sure hope they do

[oldman]

wayne simien and jarrett jack

[baller4life315]

Trade up for Warrick or Diogu

OR--

See if Taft falls to #24

If you end up with any of those three, not a bad draft day.

[baller4life315]

Taft concerns me ... this article was written from a perspective of wanting to keep him in school, but it just doesn't sound inspiring.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/05090/480439.stm

Clutch, being from Pittsburgh i've followed the situation closely. This is nothing more than a plea to Taft to stay and propoganda to use against him if he leaves. The people of Pittsburgh aren't used to seeing NBA prospects come and go, they're used to guys like Brandin Knight, Julius Page, Vonteego Cummings, Ricardo Greer, etc who were good college players that they fell in love well yet can't play on the pro level.

Pitt's in a position to lose 3 starters, the team will be left to the wolves if Taft leaves. The people that realize this are the ones trying to get Taft to stay, everyone else with a clue knows it does him no good to stay and its time to leave.

[TheTruth]

Jarrett Jack 6-4 198 PG Georgia Tech Jr.

[Clutch]

Interesting take baller4life315 ... what is your feeling on his NBA readiness?

Maybe I just have a sour taste in my mouth from Eddie Griffin ... but I really would like to come away with a no-nonsense player who is deadly serious about his NBA career and is ready to right now or by mid-season 2006. Maybe Taft is just that... but the knocks on him don't sound real appealing.

[VesceySux]

A few weeks back, I said Joey Graham, but that was before he shot up the charts. Now, I predict a trade for Hakim Warrick.

[francis 4 prez]

if gerald green is still on the board, we'll take travis diener.


otherwise, i think we pick garcia.


and even though he's undersized, i still just really want warrick.



and for clarification purposes, if we pick someone #24 and then trade him for someone else, do we have to guess the guy we picked, or the guy we traded for? i'm saying the guy we pick.

[rikesh316]

I would select Sisco Garcia or Chris Taft if they they were there. I believe the Rockets will draft a SG/SF who is athletic. The PF and PG in Free Agency seems pretty deep and the Rockets also seem pretty high on Spanloius and Badiene. Winston or Hodge may be the pick.

[Deuce]

I think the Rockets will pick Julius Hodge.

Hodge seems like a JVG type player to me. Very tough, plays hard, high BB IQ and can play multiple positions.

Other than Hodge, one other name I want to throw out there as sort of a sleeper. And it probably is a REACH at #24 but another guy that fits the bill as a JVG type player that has been turning some heads lately is Alan Anderson (http://nbadraft.net/profiles/alananderson.asp). Just like Hodge, his potential ceiling might not be that high but his work ethic and desire can make up for a lot.

[rikesh316]

Rockets should trade their first round pick for two second round picks considering this draft is very deep. Lakers and Jazz have 2 second rounders.

[rikesh316]

If Rockets select Alan Anderson with their 24th pick, someone needs to get fired because he will be thier in the second round.

[mr_gootan]

Trade down for Alan Anderson and Dwayne Jones

[baller4life315]

Taft definitely could have used another yet at school but that simply wasn't happening. He has an NBA body with all the skills needed to succeed, it's just a question of attitude. It's not work ethic attitude problems, he actually practices very hard and has improved in a lot of regards that people give him no credit for due to his lackluster sophomore season. It's just more or less, he needs to snap out of this cocky "I'm better than everybody else" attitude he's had going on. I think it would be funny if he we took him & he showed up to training camp with that attitude since its VERY easy to become a humble man when practicing against the likes of Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming.

I hear ya on your concerns and drawing the Eddie Griffin comparisons. Only difference is Taft isn't a complete bonehead like EG. He's not the kind of guy that carries a gun around, tries to knock out teammates and shoots at ex-girlfriends. I just think he needs a slap in the face and sort of a down-to-earth experience to make him realize he's the low guy on the totum pole once he enters the NBA ranks.

He has a bright future ahead of him if he wants to embrace it. I see a lot of a younger Antonio McDyess in him. He's not as explosive as McDyess used to be but he can dominate around the basket the way he used to. His post game continues to improve, he's already a solid post defender and rebound that has great hands and he's not the kind of guy that will let you push him around.

[Bullard4Life]

From the mouth of Chad Ford:

Illinois guard Luther Head is still operating in the afterglow of a great performance at the predraft camp. A number of teams, including the Pacers (No. 17), Celtics (18), Grizzlies (19), Rockets (24), Pistons (26) and Heat (29) have him in the mix for the first round.

[rikesh316]

I hope we don't select Luther Head, he is too short to solid SG and can't handle pg duties. His defense is also suspect.

[LongTimeFan]

Taft


A lot of the same things were said about Cato pre-JVG. IMO JVG got everything he could out of Cato, and I think he may be beneficial to Taft as well.

[slimpooky]

The rockets will trade up and get Hakim Warrick. He'll bring the rockets more athleticism at the 4.

http://www.paulkatcher.com/images/hakim_warrick.jpg

Plus, any player that can t-bag someone while dunking is impresive.

Greatest thread I've seen......t-bag

pook

[jump shooter]

I think the rockets will be hard pressed not to choose a talent like Taft is if he is still there when the rockets are on the clock. I saw some clips of him and came away very impressed. I also like Jason Maxiell even though he is undersized abit with a very long reach ie. just liked the hyped up Ike Diogu. Maxiell is a phenomonal athlete and the best defensive 4 in this draft. Would love Charlie Villanueva as well and then their is Johan Petro with sick athletism for a 7 footer. The rockets are definetly going to get a very good player out of this draft that probably will help them right away.

[don grahamleone]

I like Ike!

[Possum]

The rockets will trade up and get Hakim Warrick. He'll bring the rockets more athleticism at the 4.

http://www.paulkatcher.com/images/hakim_warrick.jpg

Plus, any player that can t-bag someone while dunking is impresive.


Now thats funny I dont care who you are!

[gucci888]

I'm not sure why everyone is making such a big deal about Simien and Diogu being undersized. They are the exact same size as Brand when he came out, both Simien and Diogu had better stats than Brand.

If Simien or Diogu are somehow still on the board, then we'd have to go w/ then. I'd pick Simien and Diogu over Taft.

[tinman]

The rockets will trade up and get Hakim Warrick. He'll bring the rockets more athleticism at the 4.


I'm all for some dude named HAKIM.

[jump shooter]

Chad Ford is reporting that the Pacers, Celtics, Grizzlies, Rockets, Pistons and Heat are in the mix for drafting Luther Head. Thats in his recent draft rumor blog at the very end.

[jump shooter]

Luther Head was off the charts in the Chicago combines. Kinda reminds me of Mobley.

[gucci888]

What are the chances of the Rockets trading up and getting Warrick? He is my semi-pipedream #1 pick. :)

[Rockets34Legend]

It would be nice to get Hakim Warrick, but I'll settle w/ Simien.

[thegame_2234]

Hakim Warrick or Chris Taft

Francisco Garcia

i will add Charlie Villanueva (this would be my order)

personaly i will check if we stil have chance to take Hakim with the memphis pick (have to be very sure) please a don't want to loose to good guards for a foward that maybe we loose in the end of his contract year and a rookie

Taft is a good pickup for more late first round or a first second round pick

will be nice if we can get three to four draft picks that day to get the players that could help the team and the roster

[bigbodymoe]

JARRET JACK....i love the way this guy plays he is very passionate and his jump shot reminds me so much of chauncy b-b-b-billups. i would definantly pick him at 24 if we keep the pick unless simien or warrick are still up

[JamesC]

My order:
Joey Graham(not likely to be available)
Hakim Warrick
Ike Diogu
Jarrett Jack- reminds me a bit of Chauncey Billups
Franscisco Garcia

[JamesC]

JARRET JACK....i love the way this guy plays he is very passionate and his jump shot reminds me so much of chauncy b-b-b-billups.


I didnt even see your post and I was thinking the same thing about Jack.

[bigbodymoe]

I didnt even see your post and I was thinking the same thing about Jack.
great minds think alike ;) but seriously i think the should pick him and i hope they do because i feel he will have a good future in the league

[Francis3422]

I see us picking Simien, and trading up a bit with the 2nd rounder to try to get high enough to pick up Blantche. Maybe get Wells as well.

[RocketFan007]

I'm hoping for Diogu.

[KaiSeR SoZe]

same here w/ Diogu

[COMPAQ CENTER]

Make Your Pick
This is also your chance to become a BBS legend by getting in your Rocket pick right now in print :). Not who you want, but who will we get when all is said and done on Tuesday?

Roko-Leni Ukic

http://www.vecernji-list.hr/system/galleries/pics/050615/ukic.jpg

[Another Brother]

Charlie Villanueva
CONNECTICUT | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 20
Villanueva has the skills of a lottery pick but proved to be a bit lazy and unreliable at UConn. He could go as high as the late lottery or he could slip all the way to San Antonio.

[ROXTXIA]

We'll trade up and trade the pick away.

I would say whomever we wind up drafting will probably never wear a Rockets uniform, unless he's traded to us in subsequent years.

[Dubious]

Mickaël Gelabale
http://www.elitedraft.net/mickaelgelebalehd.jpg

I hope we move up for Warrick or Diogou but since this is a competition for prognostication immortality you have to break away from the herd. Besides CD has to justify his expense account for his trip to Europe and Ukic will already be gone at 24.

And Guys, as of right now, we don't have a second round pick.

[gucci888]

JARRET JACK....i love the way this guy plays he is very passionate and his jump shot reminds me so much of chauncy b-b-b-billups. i would definantly pick him at 24 if we keep the pick unless simien or warrick are still up

I could see JVG falling in love w/ Jack's game. He's a strong body that uses it. The only thing is that Jack is terribly turnover prone, as good as he is, he still turns it over 3.5 times a game while only dishing out 4.5 a game.

[Mooch]

Salim Stoudamire Feels The Suns Will Need Him Next Season
24th June, 2005 - 5:58 pm
AZCentral - Salim Stoudamire, cousin of Portland’s Damon Stoudamire thinks the Suns high-octane can make good use of his shooting skills.

<b>The Suns, however, would rather draft Kansas forward Wayne Simien who is bigger and reportedly has a better attitude.</b>

"If I have to pick a guy on character alone, I'd pick Wayne," said Dick Van Arsdale, Suns senior executive vice president.

The 6'1" Salim was a great shooter for the University of Arizona but is a second-round pick at best. [READ]

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/0624sunsnb0624.html

[juicystream]

I wrote about him in the College Hoops room and have been following him for his entire career. Here comes your newest Houston Rocket....

Jarrett Jack :D

[PhiSlammaJamma]

McCants will be the pick.

[baller4life315]

I wrote about him in the College Hoops room and have been following him for his entire career. Here comes your newest Houston Rocket....

Jarrett Jack :D

I've been all for Warrick, Diogu or Taft all along but I would be satisfied if we picked up Jarrett Jack. I've mentioned before how I think this draft is playing out a lot like the 2001 draft: top heavy with big men leaving talented guards slated to go late in the 1st round, early 2nd round getting overlooked (Jack, McCants, Gilchrist, Luther Head, Nate Robinson, Salim Stoudamire, Monta Ellis).

[Rashmon]

Taft or Villaneuva, if they are available. Sleeper: Turiaf

Warrick, Diogu and Simien are all intriguing but their lack of vertical length concerns me.

[RocketFan007]

Warrick, Diogu and Simien are all intriguing but their lack of vertical length concerns me.

I agree with Warrick and Simien, but with a 7'4 wing span, Diogu's lack of height is overrated.

[Relativist]

Taft definitely could have used another yet at school but that simply wasn't happening. He has an NBA body with all the skills needed to succeed, it's just a question of attitude. It's not work ethic attitude problems, he actually practices very hard and has improved in a lot of regards that people give him no credit for due to his lackluster sophomore season. It's just more or less, he needs to snap out of this cocky "I'm better than everybody else" attitude he's had going on. I think it would be funny if he we took him & he showed up to training camp with that attitude since its VERY easy to become a humble man when practicing against the likes of Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming.

I hear ya on your concerns and drawing the Eddie Griffin comparisons. Only difference is Taft isn't a complete bonehead like EG. He's not the kind of guy that carries a gun around, tries to knock out teammates and shoots at ex-girlfriends. I just think he needs a slap in the face and sort of a down-to-earth experience to make him realize he's the low guy on the totum pole once he enters the NBA ranks.

He has a bright future ahead of him if he wants to embrace it. I see a lot of a younger Antonio McDyess in him. He's not as explosive as McDyess used to be but he can dominate around the basket the way he used to. His post game continues to improve, he's already a solid post defender and rebound that has great hands and he's not the kind of guy that will let you push him around.

Thanks for the info. What do you think about the Chris Wilcox comparisons?

[Nelly]

Other than Hodge, one other name I want to throw out there as sort of a sleeper. And it probably is a REACH at #24 but another guy that fits the bill as a JVG type player that has been turning some heads lately is Alan Anderson (http://nbadraft.net/profiles/alananderson.asp). Just like Hodge, his potential ceiling might not be that high but his work ethic and desire can make up for a lot.

from watching those yahoo sports videos, Hodge to me is like a black Jon Barry, of course i never saw him play before that so i dont know....

[gucci888]

Taft or Villaneuva, if they are available. Sleeper: Turiaf

Warrick, Diogu and Simien are all intriguing but their lack of vertical length concerns me.

I don't know why everyone is so worried about Diogu and Simien being a little undersized. They are almost physically identical to Elton Brand when he came out of Duke, both Simien and Diogu averaged better numbers as well.

I'm not saying they are the next Elton Brands, but I wouldn't let 1-2 inches decide whether or not I would take them.

[eyhab27]

Taft has 2 left feet
Ike Diogu and Sean May will have weight problems their entire career

Hakim Warrick, Jarret Jack, and Joey Graham will be stars... PLEASE draft smart this year... and once you do draft them, DONT TRADE for someone you you THINK is better. lol.. we could have had an excellen draft a couple of years ago with Richard Jefferson and Jason Collins, BUT we all know how that ended

[eyhab27]

Jarret Jack just has that no fear mentality that I really like. Same with Rashad McCants. RM has that crazy in the head type of play, kind of reminds me of Ron Artest!!!!

[Fegwu]

Clutch, being from Pittsburgh i've followed the situation closely. This is nothing more than a plea to Taft to stay and propoganda to use against him if he leaves. The people of Pittsburgh aren't used to seeing NBA prospects come and go, they're used to guys like Brandin Knight, Julius Page, Vonteego Cummings, Ricardo Greer, etc who were good college players that they fell in love well yet can't play on the pro level.

Pitt's in a position to lose 3 starters, the team will be left to the wolves if Taft leaves. The people that realize this are the ones trying to get Taft to stay, everyone else with a clue knows it does him no good to stay and its time to leave.


Fair enough but the problem with take is that we are not blind.

Unfortunately for Taft, Pitt was heavily featured on national TV last season and Taft was next to nothing in most cases as it regards the betterment of his team. I disturbing to watch his game especially considering his immense "potential". This guy literally took from the NBA green room to the wait-and-see room. No GM in his right mind will pick him with a top 20 pick (Elgin Baylor calling) will select Chris. The reports on him are all saying the same thing and what my eyes saw confirm that.

I will take him at #24 but only grudgingly.

All that said, Chris could turn out to be a monster in the NBA.

I will be much happier with an Ike Diogu, Jarret Jack, Julius Hodge or Wayne Simmien (folks likely to be available at #24).

[Rockets-R-Us]

My first choice would be McCants (and I say if he's on the board when we pick then McCants is the guy).

However my prediction is that we trade up and select Diogu.

My personal choices behind those two would be Taft or Francisco Garcia. This is almost a failsafe draft... but having said that, I've already started writing a slapstick comedy about how the Clippers and Warriors keep getting handed the keys to paradise and somehow manage to ***** it up everytime...

Chris Tucker will play the role of "Golden State" and Chris Elliott as "The Hapless Clippers". Then, Margaret Cho (needed an Asian Comic reference here) comes in as the Jackie Chan stand-in to play The Houston Rockets, putting up with the stupidity of GS and fighting off the Clips, to somehow beat the draft, win the... girl??? (plot issues to resolve here)... and set things right for the big finish!! :p

I know, I'm beyond repair - so sue me!! :D :D

Be :cool: and stay in school!!

[Rashmon]

I don't know why everyone is so worried about Diogu and Simien being a little undersized. They are almost physically identical to Elton Brand when he came out of Duke, both Simien and Diogu averaged better numbers as well.

I'm not saying they are the next Elton Brands, but I wouldn't let 1-2 inches decide whether or not I would take them.

Gucci, I think the track record on tweeners would substantiate those fears rather than erase them. Brand is an exception, not the rule.

[toby]

If jack is still around at 24 we will snatch him up. but my money is on us getting out of the draft with a few "interesting" trades.

[henrock]

I'm all for some dude named HAKIM.


Why are people so high on Hakim Warrick? He's a power forward in a shooting guards body. at 6'8 220 he will get murdered in the front court and he doesn't have enough ball skills to play the 3

[Fegwu]

from watching those yahoo sports videos, Hodge to me is like a black Jon Barry, of course i never saw him play before that so i dont know....

I have been watching Hodge now for 2-3 years now and I am sure his game is not similar to a combination Marquis Daniel and Josh Howard (but it looks like he is not as strong as Josh Howard).

The reason why his stock is where it is at is because of the dreaded "potential" word. It is believed that he has little to no more upside. He may not wow you with athletism but you will get a consistent effort and output (most times both in good bunches) on a game to game bases.



PS. why are some you guys so much in love with Charlie Villanueva? Haven't you guys even watched him play? I would not even pick him with my #24 pick if I am the Rox GM.

[jopatmc]

I have been watching Hodge now for 2-3 years now and I am sure his game is not similar to a combination Marquis Daniel and Josh Howard (but it looks like he is not as strong as Josh Howard).

The reason why his stock is where it is at is because of the dreaded "potential" word. It is believed that he has little to no more upside. He may not wow you with athletism but you will get a consistent effort and output (most times both in good bunches) on a game to game bases.



PS. why are some you guys so much in love with Charlie Villanueva? Haven't you guys even watched him play? I would not even pick him with my #24 pick if I am the Rox GM.


Hodge is Michael Ray Richardson without the drug problem.

[Nelly]

Hodge is Michael Ray Richardson without the drug problem.

lol i think that comparison is a bit of a stretch

[baller4life315]

Fair enough but the problem with take is that we are not blind.

Unfortunately for Taft, Pitt was heavily featured on national TV last season and Taft was next to nothing in most cases as it regards the betterment of his team. I disturbing to watch his game especially considering his immense "potential". This guy literally took from the NBA green room to the wait-and-see room. No GM in his right mind will pick him with a top 20 pick (Elgin Baylor calling) will select Chris. The reports on him are all saying the same thing and what my eyes saw confirm that.

I will take him at #24 but only grudgingly.

All that said, Chris could turn out to be a monster in the NBA.

I will be much happier with an Ike Diogu, Jarret Jack, Julius Hodge or Wayne Simmien (folks likely to be available at #24).

Taft's biggest problems this past season were his inconsistency and his passiveness. I attribute some of that to how Jamie Dixon likes to platoon multiple players in his frontcourt, making too many substitutions in an effort to give a guy like Taft around 25 minutes a night and keep him "fresh." He didn't need that, he's a difference maker that needed to be on the floor more often and that frustrated Taft.

I don't know where you are trying to go with the "betterment of the team" argument. He's a soft spoken PF that rarely has the ball in his hands. He wasn't lazy, he wasn't a distraction he just functioned in the sense that a traditional forward would. If your goal is to cast blame, shine that light on at Carl Krauser because if there's anybody whose attitude and style of play was detrimental to that team, it was Krauser and certainly not Taft. [There's a reason Krauser's anticipated announcement that he's not returning to school is considered good news around these parts]

I think he will be a fine pro, he's not a bad kid he just has some motivation issues that I attribute to a non-ideal situation playing at Pitt. It was a poorly run offense that didn't utilize him properly and his motivation and killer instinct suffered because of it. ...and i'm not making this up, i've heard 1st hand from close friends of Taft on the bball team at my school that played against him & know him well.

He wasn't as fortunate as someone like Ike Diogu was where everything revolved around him. He wasn't in an effective and properly setup offense where Simien could establish himself as a solid, low-post threat getting touches everytime down the court. These are guys that are getting the ball whenever they want it, these are guys where the offense constantly flows through them. Unfortunately, Taft didn't have that luxury as the offense would inexplicably deviate from him causing him to get most of his looks from put-backs & such.

There's no such thing as a SURE thing when picking in the 20's. All these guys: Simien, Diogu, Taft, Jack, etc are all risks. Simien is injury prone, Diogu put up great numbers on a mediocre team, Jack is turnover prone with questionable playmaking skills---everybody has their knocks. Taft just happens to be the guy that didn't put up monster numbers yet has more upside than anybody else and whose stock depends on the dreaded "P" word.

[leehoang]

Warrick. If we can't get him at 24 or moving up in picks, we should just trade the pick for future or a player.

[LongTimeFan]

I think what a lot of people overlook is we need someone who will get the crowd/team into it most importantly. This year, that guy was Sura, and Mike James somewhat down the road.

Let's face it:

McGrady, JHo, Yao are all passive when it comes to energy and enthusiasm. Sura and James gave us a big lift with their "energy" some would say, but its more like enthusiasm. Jon Barry fits this mold too.

I don't want the Rockets drafting another player in this mold. (Taft is I assume? From the "lazinesS" reports I hear, I don't think he's a firey guy..)

A guy like McCants will bring that enthusiam and energy that our main core lack. This guy loves the game, and shows it -- much like a young Sam Cassell. Julius Hodge also comes to mind as someone who can play off the crowd and generate energy. (But for those of you who think he's going to be an NBA PG... do some more research :) )

I'd love for the Rockets to draft a SG/SF and then get an early pick in the 2nd round. From there, S&T, trade, or sign a PF via FA.

With all that said, my ideal scenario:

Move up and draft McCants.
Draft Salim Stoud. in the 2nd round.

That gives you*:

James/Stoud
McCants/Barry
Tmac/Barry
Free Agent/Juwon
Yao/Mt. Tumbo

*assuming Wesley and Sura are gone as rumored.

[Fegwu]

Fair points baller4life315. I did not really factor in the coaching perspective of things or how Krauser could have affected his game. It just bothered me that he could not impact the games I saw (about 5-7 games) like average Josh Boone, and the BE studs (like he was protracted to be) like Warrick and Villanueva. Even the other PF on his team (name has escaped me) seemed to want it more consistently.

I hope it works out well in the end for him and well for us as well and whoever we choose.


PS. what is he going to do with the "green room suit" he went to get measure for since it now likely (more like certain) that the league's front office may not send him a green room invitation anymore? Soon after he declared Chris assumed he would be a top 14 pick and he "pre-emptively" went ahead to take care of the suit he would where in the back room (green room) where prospectively lottery picks are sicking before their names are announced. I'd be shocked if he still gets invited to the GR. :)

[m_cable]

I'd be shocked if he still gets invited to the GR. :)

Then prepare to be shocked.... of course that preparation won't lead to anything:

Taft unsurprisingly isn't on the GR list.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2005/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&id=2093806&num=0

Here's this year's list: Bogut, Felton, Frye, Granger, Green, Yaroslav Korolev, Sean May, McCants, Paul, Spain's Fran Vazquez, Villanueva, Hakim Warrick, Webster, Deron Williams, Marvin Williams and Antoine Wright.

[Nelly]

I

A guy like McCants will bring that enthusiam and energy that our main core lack. This guy loves the game, and shows it -- much like a young Sam Cassell. Julius Hodge also comes to mind as someone who can play off the crowd and generate energy. (But for those of you who think he's going to be an NBA PG... do some more research :) )

I'd love for the Rockets to draft a SG/SF and then get an early pick in the 2nd round. From there, S&T, trade, or sign a PF via FA.

With all that said, my ideal scenario:

Move up and draft McCants.
Draft Salim Stoud. in the 2nd round.

That gives you*:

James/Stoud
McCants/Barry
Tmac/Barry
Free Agent/Juwon
Yao/Mt. Tumbo

*assuming Wesley and Sura are gone as rumored.

McCants would be nice, it seems like his stock keeps rising and falling....the one thing i dont like about him is his ball handling, he needs to improve it to play guard in the NBA

[Dr. Basketball]

Ike Diogo

[Dubious]

What willl it take to get us a pick in the 2nd? Would a team in cap trouble take an expiring contract? Is that legal Would it require an exception too since second rounders don't have slotted contracts? Is a 2nd worth that or would we be beter off using our expiring contracts in a trade for a veteran PF?

I have been a big fan of Daniel Ewing since his high school days, he is just the type of smart basketball player that could adapt very well to a pass first, play defense PG in JVG system. But it will probably take a #35 to get him.

[hooroo]

I think Rox will surprise everyone with either CJ Miles or Ryan Gomes. It's just a hunch.

[Truth]

Rashad McCants ... but every draft I see the Kings take him RIGHT ahead of us.

[Harrisment]

I'd love to see us get Warrick. Screw it, that's my pick. We're getting Hakim Warrick.

[NewRoxFan]

My first preferences would be Simien or Diogu. I would be OK with Turiaf or Garcia (the guy has a sweeeeeet stroke). But I think Anderson is a player that will make it in the league (reminds me of Mitch Richmond)...

[JamesC]

I think Rox will surprise everyone with either CJ Miles or Ryan Gomes. It's just a hunch.


I dont want CJ Miles either. I wasnt too impressed with his game the few times I've seen him play. If we do draft him then I hope he proves me wrong.

[Deuce]

I see McCants name mentioned here a few times. I totally believe the Rockets would be all over him if somehow he fell to us but I doubt he would fall. McCants would be an excellant pick.


Looking at this draft, it seems to be pretty deep with interesting prospects. I would love to see the Rockets try to pick up a 2nd round pick this year. They could offer next years 2nd rounder and Cash or something like that. Next year's draft should be pretty shallow because of the new age rule so getting another decent role player in this draft would be nice.

[RocketFan007]

Why are people so high on Hakim Warrick? He's a power forward in a shooting guards body. at 6'8 220 he will get murdered in the front court and he doesn't have enough ball skills to play the 3

That's exactly what I've been thinking.

[Hank McDowell]

I'm hoping for Diogu but don't think there is any way he will be there when we pick. Simien would be a close second, but again I don't see him being around. I could live with Turiaf and I like Jack. Not into Taft at all and Warrick is just way too small.

My prediction?

Let me first say that I still think CD is a moron...despite the good things he did this year. ANYTHING is possible....

I think he will either take Turiaf or trade the pick.

If we can't get Diogu or Simien or Jack, I would trade it away.

[lost_elephant]

Although Warrick may be a little undersized to play the 4 he almost possesses exactly what Stro would bring to the table for us in my opinion. He has extremely long arms and can hit the outside shot. I also believe he could be a defensive stalwart as we all know about his superior athletic ability. He also brings the youth that we crave. It seems to me that he has all the skills that were exposed and discussed after the loss to Dallas, so why not take him if he's there and get a potential Stro on the cheap?

[jopatmc]

Although Warrick may be a little undersized to play the 4 he almost possesses exactly what Stro would bring to the table for us in my opinion. He has extremely long arms and can hit the outside shot. I also believe he could be a defensive stalwart as we all know about his superior athletic ability. He also brings the youth that we crave. It seems to me that he has all the skills that were exposed and discussed after the loss to Dallas, so why not take him if he's there and get a potential Stro on the cheap?



Okay, take him, and then trade him and some expirings to Memphis for Bonzi, Stro, and their pick at 19 which may be Ike, or Hodge, or Jack.

[c2u4erm]

the rockets need a good point guard who can penetrate and create opportunities for the rest of his team and be a vocal leader on the court, again i have said this a million times we should draft the point guard from the UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS EL PASO,, fili rivera,, he is one of the best point guards i have seen play over the past two years, his vision on the court is just downright unbelievable, his quickness can get him to the hoop, the only knack on him right now is he must become a better outside shooter ---- this guy broke all sorts of assist records at utep and i wish truly to see him put on a rockets uniform next season..................

[micah1j]

the rockets need a good point guard who can penetrate and create opportunities for the rest of his team and be a vocal leader on the court, again i have said this a million times we should draft the point guard from the UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS EL PASO,, fili rivera,, he is one of the best point guards i have seen play over the past two years, his vision on the court is just downright unbelievable, his quickness can get him to the hoop, the only knack on him right now is he must become a better outside shooter ---- this guy broke all sorts of assist records at utep and i wish truly to see him put on a rockets uniform next season..................

If he goes undrafted we could invite him to summer camp. But no way they use the #24 pick on him.

[dsnow23]

One guy I like that nobody is talking about is Aaron Miles out of Kansas. He had a great senior year. I'm not saying spend the 24th pick on him, but judging by mock drafts I've seen, he might go undrafted. Maybe the Rox could bring him in as an undrafted free agent.

From http://www.nba.com/draft2005/profiles/AaronMiles.html (http://)

Career Highlights: Finished collegiate career as the NCAA’s eighth all-time assist leader with 954. Career assist total also ranks as the all-time best inKansas and Big 12 history. Also ranks second all-time in school history with 264 steals, and 31st in scoring with 1,183 points. Earned Third Team All-Big 12 Conference honors his junior and senior seasons. Named to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team his last three seasons. Recorded double figure assists in 21 career games and posted 12 career double-doubles.

Senior (2004-05): Led the Big 12 in assists (7.3 apg). Became the Big 12’s all-time assist leader after dishing out eight vs. Georgia Tech. Had four games of double-figure assists, with a season-high of 11 vs. Oklahoma State in the Big 12 Tournament. Scored in double figures in 15 games, with a season-high 19 points vs. Pacific. Recorded a double-double of 14 pints and 10 assists vs. Missouri. Matched a career-high with four three-point field goals made on his way to 18 points vs.Kansas State.

[rikesh316]

This draft is very deep so its a bad year not to have a 2nd round pick. The depth also means some notable players could go undrafted and I think player like Aaron Miles would be great if he goes undrafted which I think he will.

[rikesh316]

I am watching the Jordan High School Classic on ESPN2 and that Andray Blatche kid a stud. He has 26 points and 16 rebounds. He is raw but he reminds me alot of Dwight Howard. I would love the Rockets to take him since its unlikely JVG is going play a rookie anyway and let him develop.

[JumpMan]

This draft is all over the place, I've been trying to read up and see who a good guess would be and it's only confusing me more.

I'm going with Wayne Simien.

[jopatmc]

This draft is all over the place, I've been trying to read up and see who a good guess would be and it's only confusing me more.

I'm going with Wayne Simien.

I'm going with a trade with Memphis.

[gucci888]

Why are people so high on Hakim Warrick? He's a power forward in a shooting guards body. at 6'8 220 he will get murdered in the front court and he doesn't have enough ball skills to play the 3

Because he is the most athletic player in the draft, and we were one of the most unathletic teams in the league last season.

He really reminds of a mix between Prince, Marion, and Stro. He will have a hard time guarding the big PFs in the league, but then again, they would have a hard time guarding Warrick, especially w/ the attention Yao gets down low.

[UTKaluman597]

The FAs that we can possibly get will have a huge influence on who we draft. I mean there is no reason to try and get Hakim Warrick if we have Stromile as one of our FA targets. I think Joey Graham, Simien, and Jack are guys that can contribute for us next year. McCants, whom some ppl want to draft, is extreeemely undersized and erratic. Think of him as a shorter Cuttino without the D. Something about this guy reminds me of Isiah Rider, who was good, but not a guy I would want on my team. I dont think Taft will fall to 24 and if he does it should probably raise some red flags about a guy who was supposed to be the #1 or 2 PF in the draft. With H Warrick youve got a tweener who doesnt have the footspeed or ballhandling to play a 3 and can EASILY be shoved around the basket. His long arms and hops are what people seem to be infatuated with, but that is the extent of his game. To finally answer the question I think that we SHOULD take Jack but WILL take ... McCants.

[UTKaluman597]

Because he (warrick) is the most athletic player in the draft,

WRONG .. most athletic player is most def. Nate Robinson.


He (warrick again) really reminds of a mix between Prince, Marion, and Stro. He will have a hard time guarding the big PFs in the league, but then again, they would have a hard time guarding Warrick, especially w/ the attention Yao gets down low.

You're just naming skinny guys with long arms. What about HWarrick reminds you of Marion??? Warrick cant shoot a lick or handle the ball. Same question with Prince. Warrick will NOT be able to defend an opposing teams best perimeter player and he again cannot nail any kind of jumper. Your comparison with Stro is probably the most accurate except for that Stro is taller and stronger.

[gucci888]

WRONG .. most athletic player is most def. Nate Robinson.

Well, since Nate Robinson is as tall as my mom, I don't really consider him.

You're just naming skinny guys with long arms. What about HWarrick reminds you of Marion??? Warrick cant shoot a lick or handle the ball. Same question with Prince. Warrick will NOT be able to defend an opposing teams best perimeter player and he again cannot nail any kind of jumper. Your comparison with Stro is probably the most accurate except for that Stro is taller and stronger.

Hmm...Skinny guys w/ long arms, what is Warrick again?

The truth is that all those guys are long and athletic, and they all use that ability to rebound the ball. Warrick cannot shoot, I know this, but you probably didn't know that Marion shot 19% and 25% from 3-pt land his first 2 years.

Warrick can get his hands on a lot of loose balls just by tipping them to himself, a lot like Prince does. He is obvisouly not as mobile as Prince, but he runs the floor a lot like him.

[Gladiator]

In a recent thread titled "Major changes coming", someone mentioned that 2 deals would be made before the draft... Here we are 3 days away from the draft and I haven't heard anything about a possible move being made.

[Zacatecas]

In a recent thread titled "Major changes coming", someone mentioned that 2 deals would be made before the draft... Here we are 3 days away from the draft and I haven't heard anything about a possible move being made.


Could it be that the deals already have been made but they are waiting to announce them until the appropriate time. I remember Les Alexander saying that the Barkley-Horry/Cassel deal had been completed one entire week before it was announced.

I hope that the future of the team is starting to take shape behind the scenes. Wesley, Surra, and Howard just probably all had their last good seasons; essentially no future season will be as good as the last. It's a bummer to be on the tail end of a nice career.

I'm all for the youth movement in the role players, granted they don't hinder the development of the Yao/McGrady tandem.

[JTQ]

Antoine Wright :D

[Blatz]

In a recent thread titled "Major changes coming", someone mentioned that 2 deals would be made before the draft... Here we are 3 days away from the draft and I haven't heard anything about a possible move being made.

He said there will be two trades on Draft Day, unless I missed something later in the thread.

Hello, I know you all are going to bash me becasue I received this information from a conversation I was having with a friend of JVG named Terry. He said that Patrick is probably leaving to be an assistant in New York. JVG already has someone for the job. He hinted the player is a former Rocket. He also told me that Bob Sura and Wesley are about as good as gone. JVG loves Sura's attitude but is scared of his health. Welsey will be traded on draft day. Oh, by the way, watch out for 2 trades on draft day!

http://bbs.clutchfans.net/showthread.php?t=97391

[NIKEstrad]

In a recent thread titled "Major changes coming", someone mentioned that 2 deals would be made before the draft... Here we are 3 days away from the draft and I haven't heard anything about a possible move being made.

Welcome to a message board. I don't understand why so many people took an unsubstantiated, unproven "source" that could barely be called a rumor and ran with it. I've seen so many people reference the trades we're "going to make" on draft day and citing that as reasoning.

Anyhow, under JVG, the Rockets have made 2 picks- both in the 2nd round, and both foreigners. That's the only common denominator between Spanoulis and Badiane.

Based on CD's comments, my guess is CD has targeted a college player or two he believes could be a part of the rotation (could be Warrick, Simien, Garcia, or none of the above). Based on history, if the player CD targets is gone, we'll roll the dice on a HSer or Euro player that we can stash away for a year or two.

I have a feeling we go big. This draft is so up in the air. If I had to make a prediction...I'll go with Simien.

[gatechdude]

Once again, I have never seen any of the likely picks play. but from what I have read I like Jarrett Jack more and more.

I agree with you...and I am going to give my sales pitch for him. I have been a Rockets fan since I was born...Definitely b4 i ever went to GT and became a GT fan. AnywaysI watched Jarrett Jack in person for 3 years...He pretty much single handedly let Georgia Tech to the national championship a season ago...His game is very similar to Cassells except he might be a little stronger and has the heart of Elie. He also pushes the ball and speeds up the tempo like Steve Nash...He is a winner...He wants to win and is extremely motivated. I never saw him miss a single class in college..I think the Rockets could definitely use a little more heart....junkyard dog attitude....even if its a rookie. Also, he has experience getting a tall, skinny center to nut it up and push people around. Jarret Jack's attitude brushed off on his entire team and especially their center, Luke Schenser who is similar to Yao Ming in stature and behavior on the court. When Jack started though, he put some motivation and fire into him and caused him to become a strong mean beast too mentally and physically. I played with him a few times during summer school...and even in those games he played hard and was motivated...just how he acts on the court makes the whole team want to play their heart out...Here are some pictures of some of the crazy reactions he's had in the past.

http://i.cnn.net/si/2004/basketball/ncaa/specials/ncaa_tourney/2004/03/28/kansas.gatech.ap/p1_jack_ap.jpg

http://i.cnn.net/si/2004/basketball/ncaa/specials/ncaa_tourney/2004/03/21/bostcoll.gatech.ap/p1_jack1_ap.jpg

http://espn-att.starwave.com/media/ncb/2004/0328/photo/a_jack2_frt.jpg

http://media.gatewaync.com/wsj/photos/2004/wake/05bb/gatech/hewitt.jpg

http://images.usatoday.com/sports/_photos/2004/11/04/inside1-jack.jpg

http://www.cjonline.com/photos/galleries/010205_kugtech/images/19.jpg

http://new.nique.net/articleimages/2004-03-19-26-1.jpg

[cwww]

Whether there will be a trade on draft day or not, here are the 13 players which experts and analysts (from ESPN, CNNSI, Hoopshype, nbadraft.net, draftcity and so on) think they will fall between 19th to 29th...

(Name Position Height Weight College/Country Age)
Ersan Ilyasova - F 6'9" 235lbs Turkey 18
Francisco Garcia - G/F 6'7" 195lbs Louisville(Jr.) 23
Rashad McCants - G 6'4" 207lbs North Carolina(Jr.) 20
Chris Taft - F 6'10" 260lbs Pittsburgh(So.) 20
Martynas Andriuskevicius - C 7'2" 240lbs Lithuania 19
Johan Petro - C 7'0" 247lbs France 19
Jarrett Jack - G 6'3" 202lbs Geogia Tech(Jr.) 21
Wayne Simien - F 6'9" 255lbs Kansas(Sr.) 22
Julius Hodge - G 6'7" 210lbs North Carolina St.(Sr.) 21
Charlie Villanueva - F 6'11" 240lbs Connecticut(So.) 20
Andrew Bynum - C 7'0" 285lbs St. Joseph HS. 17
Ike Diogu - F 6'8" 250lbs Arizona St.(Jr.) 21
Ryan Gomes - F 6'7" 250lbs Providence(Sr.) 22

Based on the needs of the Rockets (at 1 and 4, or maybe 3 as well), and the criteria that we shouldn't draft HSers and unproven International players, here are my top 5:

1. Jarrett Jack
Stats (college): 15.5 pts 4.8 reb 4.5 ast 1.8 stl .514fg% .442 3-pt% .866ft%
-Choosing Jack as the first choice mainly because of the shortcomings of Simiens (Injury prone issue) and Diogu (too short as a PF in NBA despite his long wingspan). Jack seems to be a safe pick.

2. Wayne Simien
Stats (college): 20.3 pts 11.0 reb 1.4 ast 2.3 TO .552fg% .816ft%
-I don't believe too much in pre-camp workouts, Diogu has outstanding workouts, but so did Nachbar last year. Overall, Simien had a better season than Diogu.

3. Ike Diogu
Stats (college): 22.6 pts 9.8 reb 1.3 ast 3.6 TO 2.3 blk .575fg% .797ft%
-I like Ike's aggresiveness on the court, how can he be lacked of athleticism if he averaged 2.3 blocks a game while standing at only 6'8" (yeah, he got long wingspan, maybe that's the reason).

4. Charlie Villanueva
Stats (college): 13.6 pts 8.3 reb 1.3 ast 1.8 blk .521fg% in 25.8 mpg
-There might be a risk selecting him, but at 24th, it's worth the risk if he's still available.

5. Rashad McCants
Stats (college): 16.0 pts 3.0 reb 2.7 ast .489fg% .423 3-pt% in 25.9 mpg
-He's here just because his team won the national championship...

[hooroo]

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/sports/3241294

"We are looking for some athletic ability and some shooting and some rebounding," Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson said. "I have a hard time getting into positions."...

"This is a draft that's a pretty even draft after you get past 15," Dawson said. "It changes every day. You come to work, and it's a different person taken. The guy taken 19 today might be 30 tomorrow, and the guy that's 29 might be 16 the next day. There's a group of players that are going to fall, we think. At 24, to figure out the 23 players that will be picked before you pick is very difficult."...

"We normally group them in fives, and we've got a group of five that we think will be where we are," Dawson said. "But some in the two groups in front of that will move.

"It's very hard to go out at 24 and target the position. You want to get somebody that can make the team. You get the best player that you can that can make the team and become a factor. For a team that's won 50-something games, that's not very easy....

"If we can add rebounding or if we can add shooting or if we can add athleticism, that pick is going to be pretty good for us. It's not actually looking for a position as much as for a player than can make our roster and became a rotation player."...

Dawson said he has looked to move up in the draft but doubts he could put together an offer to make that happen...

"I like a guy who is athletic," Dawson said. "Athleticism is very big in this league right now with a lot of teams going very small. You have to be versatile enough to play a number of different ways. That's what you look at."

[hooroo]

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/chronicle/archive/2005/06/26/SPGGBDEQAC1.DTL

In 1998, Sonics All-Star forward Rashard Lewis, then a high schooler from Houston, believed he had a promise from the Rockets to be one of their three first-round picks.

But on draft night, Lewis watched the Rockets make the 14th, 16th and 18th selections without picking him. Though he was eventually taken by the Sonics in the second round, he expressed displeasure afterward over his perceived hometown sleight.

"I was shocked when that came out," said Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson. "I remember asking (then-coach) Rudy Tomjanovich if he had said that, and he said it must have been a misunderstanding because we've never done that before."

Dawson said he has only once made a guarantee: In 2002, the Rockets had the No. 1 pick and selected China's Yao Ming. It was the only time no variables or guessing games were involved. Dawson knew exactly who would be available to his team, so it was a promise he could keep.

"I just feel like you can't obligate yourself," Dawson said. "There's so many things that change. Let's say you promised somebody you'll take him, and the day of the draft, somebody offers you a player for that pick. I just think that too many things can happen."

[Throwed247]

My prediction is the Rockets move up in the draft and get Sean May. I wish JVG didn't keep all the draft workouts on the DL tho. It sucks to not know anything about even who they've been working out or who they like or anything. It drives me nuts, I can't wait til Tuesday.

[Jared Novak]

With a glut of power forwards coming out in this draft, I would be really suprised to see the Rockets pick any other position. The Rockets IMHO need an up-tempo PG, a slashing-type scorer and defender (SG or SF) and an athletic, rebounding PF.

While I do like Jarret Jack, there is just something about his game I don't like, I just can't pinpoint it (but thats why CD makes the picks and I do not). I think Antoine Wright or Francisco Garcia would be perfect as another scorer and a player who could be a really good defender (but both will most likely be long gone by the 24th pick). I do like Wayne Simien as I saw quite a few Jayhawks games, but the he doesn't leap very high, nor does he play great defense. His rebounding in college was nothing to scoff at but I don't think it will translate over to the NBA and on top of that he's never really been durable. I am not sold on Charles Villanueva at all, and I actually like UConn, I just don't buy into the hype surrounding him.

If the Rockets go international, I could see the them picking Johan Petro who like Badiane is tall, long and athletic and fits the new mold for the PF. The Rockets could also take Roko Ukic (sp?) the guard that CD and Ainge were scouting a few weeks back.

The player I did like before he pulled out was Tiago Splitter, that guy plays hard, can score, rebounds and has great attitude. In case anyone is wondering, yes I've seen him play in person, and I've followed him since my trip back from Europe.

My fearless prediction is that the Rockets will end up taking Chris Taft. The guy has great upside and when he plays with effort he can absolutely change the game. There is a reason why he was touted so well early in the season. I think this pick will be a high risk/ high reward pick. Despite all the knocks on Taft, his talent and (here's that dreaded word) potential are too good to pass up at #24. If he is indeed picked by the Rockets he'll either blossom under JVG's tutelage or snap under the pressure, and either way, it would be the same for whatever rookie or rookies who come into the fold.

[rocket red]

With a glut of power forwards coming out in this draft, I would be really suprised to see the Rockets pick any other position. The Rockets IMHO need an up-tempo PG, a slashing-type scorer and defender (SG or SF) and an athletic, rebounding PF.

While I do like Jarret Jack, there is just something about his game I don't like, I just can't pinpoint it (but thats why CD makes the picks and I do not). I think Antoine Wright or Francisco Garcia would be perfect as another scorer and a player who could be a really good defender (but both will most likely be long gone by the 24th pick). I do like Wayne Simien as I saw quite a few Jayhawks games, but the he doesn't leap very high, nor does he play great defense. His rebounding in college was nothing to scoff at but I don't think it will translate over to the NBA and on top of that he's never really been durable. I am not sold on Charles Villanueva at all, and I actually like UConn, I just buy into the hype surrounding him.

If the Rockets go international, I could see the them picking Johan Petro who like Badiane is tall, long and athletic and fits the new mold for the PF. The Rockets could also take Roko Ukic (sp?) the guard that CD and Ainge were scouting a few weeks back.

The player I did like before he pulled out was Tiago Splitter, that guy plays hard, can score, rebounds and has great attitude. In case anyone is wondering, yes I've seen him play in person, and I've followed him since my trip back from Europe.

My fearless prediction is that the Rockets will end up taking Chris Taft. The guy has great upside and when he plays with effort he can absolutely change the game. There is a reason why he was touted so well early in the season. I think this pick will be a high risk/ high reward pick. Despite all the knocks on Taft, his talent and (here's that dreaded word) potential are too good to pass up at #24. If he is indeed picked by the Rockets he'll either blossom under JVG's tutelage or snap under the pressure, and either way, it would be the same for whatever rookie or rookies comes into the fold.


I agree. If Taft is available, we draft him.

[krocket]

Is it within the realm of possibility that a player, oh say like Chris Taft, would 'take it easy' his last season in school in order to fall to the bottom of the first round so that he may join a contending team rather than be drafted by a lottery team.

I know it is risky and makes a difference in money the first few years, but the big payday is year 5 and because of the new pay scale for 1st rounders the difference is not as great as it used to be. I know its a crazy idea. How else do you you explain a guy tagged to be a lottery pick his junior year falling to a bottom 1st rounder his senior year because he appears to be lazy? He didn't all-of-a-sudden become lazy, that is a character trait so he must have been lazy his junior year also.

Am I just a conspiracy theorist or does anyone else think it is peculiar?

[Clutch]

Am I just a conspiracy theorist or does anyone else think it is peculiar?

Sorry, but conspiracy theorist. I can't see anyone doing anything that would take guaranteed money out of their pockets .... Taft would love to go top 10. Remember: Terence Morris was a projected lotto pick once also.

[krocket]

Sorry, but conspiracy theorist. I can't see anyone doing anything that would take guaranteed money out of their pockets .... Taft would love to go top 10. Remember: Terence Morris was a projected lotto pick once also.You're probably right, but I still don't understand Taft's fall from grace. I don't know much about TM.

[grednotto]

if Charlie Villanueva falls i hope we take him. how can you passed the next lamar odom.
i like hakim warrick but he doesn't really have a position. its cliche now but injuries and being undersized really affect me on drafting wanye simien.

[jopatmc]

I agree with you...and I am going to give my sales pitch for him. I have been a Rockets fan since I was born...Definitely b4 i ever went to GT and became a GT fan. AnywaysI watched Jarrett Jack in person for 3 years...He pretty much single handedly let Georgia Tech to the national championship a season ago...His game is very similar to Cassells except he might be a little stronger and has the heart of Elie. He also pushes the ball and speeds up the tempo like Steve Nash...He is a winner...He wants to win and is extremely motivated. I never saw him miss a single class in college..I think the Rockets could definitely use a little more heart....junkyard dog attitude....even if its a rookie. Also, he has experience getting a tall, skinny center to nut it up and push people around. Jarret Jack's attitude brushed off on his entire team and especially their center, Luke Schenser who is similar to Yao Ming in stature and behavior on the court. When Jack started though, he put some motivation and fire into him and caused him to become a strong mean beast too mentally and physically. I played with him a few times during summer school...and even in those games he played hard and was motivated...just how he acts on the court makes the whole team want to play their heart out...Here are some pictures of some of the crazy reactions he's had in the past.

http://i.cnn.net/si/2004/basketball/ncaa/specials/ncaa_tourney/2004/03/28/kansas.gatech.ap/p1_jack_ap.jpg

http://i.cnn.net/si/2004/basketball/ncaa/specials/ncaa_tourney/2004/03/21/bostcoll.gatech.ap/p1_jack1_ap.jpg

http://espn-att.starwave.com/media/ncb/2004/0328/photo/a_jack2_frt.jpg

http://media.gatewaync.com/wsj/photos/2004/wake/05bb/gatech/hewitt.jpg

http://images.usatoday.com/sports/_photos/2004/11/04/inside1-jack.jpg

http://www.cjonline.com/photos/galleries/010205_kugtech/images/19.jpg

http://new.nique.net/articleimages/2004-03-19-26-1.jpg


You hit the nail on the head. He's an on court motivator, a great trait that you can't measure in height, strength testing, or any other stat that these kids are being evaluated on. You can't measure heart. Jack's got it.

I'd like to see us get either Hodge or Jack because of the 'heart' factor. Precisely the same reason is why I do not want to see us get Taft, Villanueva, or McCants. After watching MoT for all these years, I want no more part of that type of player that won't expend themselves on court. Championship teams are built with players that play with passion. Bring on Jarrett Jack.

[FishBulb913]

Is it within the realm of possibility that a player, oh say like Chris Taft, would 'take it easy' his last season in school in order to fall to the bottom of the first round so that he may join a contending team rather than be drafted by a lottery team.

I know it is risky and makes a difference in money the first few years, but the big payday is year 5 and because of the new pay scale for 1st rounders the difference is not as great as it used to be. I know its a crazy idea. How else do you you explain a guy tagged to be a lottery pick his junior year falling to a bottom 1st rounder his senior year because he appears to be lazy? He didn't all-of-a-sudden become lazy, that is a character trait so he must have been lazy his junior year also.

Am I just a conspiracy theorist or does anyone else think it is peculiar?

Taft was a sophmore this year not a senior :rolleyes:

[gatechdude]

You hit the nail on the head. He's an on court motivator, a great trait that you can't measure in height, strength testing, or any other stat that these kids are being evaluated on. You can't measure heart. Jack's got it.

I'd like to see us get either Hodge or Jack because of the 'heart' factor. Precisely the same reason is why I do not want to see us get Taft, Villanueva, or McCants. After watching MoT for all these years, I want no more part of that type of player that won't expend themselves on court. Championship teams are built with players that play with passion. Bring on Jarrett Jack.

Exactly...he is the anti-Mo Taylor....Another thing I forgot to mention...Coach Hewitt is a very very strict displinarian...extremely serious about basketball...it is his life and when he loses you can see it on his face pretty much like Van Gundy. Whenever a player missed a class, he would make them run a mile...if they missed a defensive assignment...5 miles...Also, watching the Rockets last season, we already have 2 good sources of points (Tmac and Yao). A strong proven rebounder would help this season but don't expect some HS or college kid to be able to provide us with that. Need to pick that up from free agency. If Jack works on his turnovers he could be the missing piece and a good edition to Tmac and Yao for a 2009 championship run. We are lacking a good young pg. He has great experience for a college player getting the ball inside to a tall lanky center too. Yao would be a lot better if someone could get the ball to him.

[LongTimeFan]

You hit the nail on the head. He's an on court motivator, a great trait that you can't measure in height, strength testing, or any other stat that these kids are being evaluated on. You can't measure heart. Jack's got it.

I'd like to see us get either Hodge or Jack because of the 'heart' factor. Precisely the same reason is why I do not want to see us get Taft, Villanueva, or McCants. After watching MoT for all these years, I want no more part of that type of player that won't expend themselves on court. Championship teams are built with players that play with passion. Bring on Jarrett Jack.


Uhh... exactly why do you think McCants doesn't have heart? Have you ever seen him play? :rolleyes:

[rikesh316]

I know its not his fault that he got sick at end of last year. It's not his fault that his playing off a little after his mom was diagonsed with cancer. He can play and if he falls to 24, Rockets would get an A+ draft from me.

[rikesh316]

After the Mavs series, the Rockets major weakness was exposed. They need to get younger and more athletic at the wing postion. They should draft a 2 or 3 like Sisco Garcia, Winston, or Hodge. They PF's in free agency is pretty deep so I hope the Rockets don't get a 4. They also have Badiene who would be a soild role player. Jarrett Jack is a good pg but he can't shoot. I think he is another Bob Sura. Spaniolus seems to be the real deal so why draft a PG. Barry is FA and Wesley is in his last year of his contract, so draft a SG or SF. I would love to have Joey Graham but they would have to trade up. I think Rockets have a lot of holes so they need to trade their first Round pick for maybe 2 second rounders considering this is a very deep draft. In second round, we maybe can get 2 of Brandon Bass, Ronny Turaif, Nate Robertson, Filiberto Rivera, Kennedy Winston. I have a feeling the Rockets will draft David Lee. Just my feeling.

[gatechdude]

Jarrett Jack is a good pg but he can't shoot.

From his bio:


Led Tech in scoring (15.5 points per game), assists (4.53 per game), three-point percentage (44.2 pct.), free throw percentage (86.6 pct.) and steals (1.81 per game) ... ACC rankings for those categories were 12th, sixth, first (fell two FG shy of ACC minimum, but his percentage was better than the ACC leader, Raymond Felton), third and seventh, respectively ... His field goal percentage of 51.4 topped ACC perimeter players and ranked fourth overall in the NCAA ... Scored in double figures in 28 of 32 games, and scored 20 or more on nine occasions.

FG percentage by year:
45.5% 2001-2002
45.6% 2002-2003
51.4% 2003-2004
47.8% <---career

Not too shabby a shooter...

[gatechdude]

Uhh... exactly why do you think McCants doesn't have heart? Have you ever seen him play? :rolleyes:

I've seen McCants play in person during the ACC tournament semi final where he missed the final 3 pointer for UNC and lost to Jarrett Jack and GT...He has heart too...but, don't know about his ability to pump up his team and didn't seem like much of a team player.

[NIKEstrad]

I've seen McCants play in person during the ACC tournament semi final where he missed the final 3 pointer for UNC and lost to Jarrett Jack and GT...He has heart too...but, don't know about his ability to pump up his team and didn't seem like much of a team player.

We went through this back when we drafted TMo and Griffin. Any team that relies on their rookie PG to "pump them up" isn't going very far. I

If Jack works on his turnovers he could be the missing piece and a good edition to Tmac and Yao for a 2009 championship run.

And what about 2006, 2007, and 2008? Turnover prone point guards rarely fix their problems without sacrificing the rest of their game. I would've thought the Steve Francis Experience would've proven that well enough.

[rikesh316]

Three-point percentage in college really doesn't mean a lot. Centers in college shot like 40% from beyond the arc. Jarrett Jack shot has improved but he still has limited range. Rockets need a PG who can shoot 3's like Damon Stoudamire not Bob Sura.

[Zacatecas]

I think that PG at 24 may not be the wisest decision. If Spanoulis is as good as they say, then I would prefer the Rockets go after a PF, SF, or SG. Even Cassel took a couple of years to get his act together. Remeber Hakeem wanting to strangle him for shooting the ball too much and not giving it to him. I don't think Yao or McGrady would go after a ball hogging point guard the same way Dream did.

PG and Center are usually the toughest positions to fill. Spanoulis is appearing to have been a nice pickup in the 2nd round last year.

I would like the PG to be addressed in a trade or via free agency.

[yao ming]

http://probasketball.about.com/od/nbadraftplayerprofiles/a/playerranking05_4.htm

Sure Thing: The requisite size doubts that plague nearly every college power forward will cost Wayne Simien come Draft night, but there isn't a more polished product at the 4 available this year. Simien's ability to score with either hand and his knack for not only getting to the line, but also converting at an 80+% clip should not be taken lightly. Will he need to extend his shooting range, put more time into his average defensive abilities and demonstrate he can stay healthy for a full season? Absolutely, but with so many teams in need of a guy who they can go to in the post for an automatic bucket, it amazes us that this Juwan Howard clone will fall to the end of Round One.

I would be shocked if JVG gave his stamp of approval over drafting any player who wouldn't be able to contribute meaningfully this year, no matter how high his upside was. I think that Simien in Rocket red is a very likely possibility.

[NIKEstrad]

Even Cassel took a couple of years to get his act together. Remeber Hakeem wanting to strangle him for shooting the ball too much and not giving it to him..

:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

We won our two titles in Sam I Am's first two years. Define "get his act together".

[dharocks]

If Simien's available at 24, we should take him. But we really should try to move up to get Diogu, IMO.

I think Simien can certainly be molded into a Charles Oakley type. But while Diogu may not be quite on the level of Elton Brand, at the very least he should be Kenny Thomas with shotblocking ability. And for us, that's as close to ideal as we can get in this draft (though Bogut would complement Yao perfectly, that ain't gonna happen)

[toby]

If we possibly can trade up . . . how high can we reasonably trade up to? I have seen the 19 mentioned, can we get higher than that? I guess its just a waiting game to see what other teams further up are doing on draft night. We gave up a lot to move to take eddie griff (hindsight). Anyway, here's hoping that some team wants to trade out of the lottery.

[LongTimeFan]

I've seen McCants play in person during the ACC tournament semi final where he missed the final 3 pointer for UNC and lost to Jarrett Jack and GT...He has heart too...but, don't know about his ability to pump up his team and didn't seem like much of a team player.

So you watched him one game where he missed an off-balanced three and thats proof enough that he can't "pump up his team"?

I guess you missed the game where UNC beat #1 UCONN and McCants hit the three to win at the buzzer?

I've seen all of McCants games the last 2 years, not just 1 tourny game ;) He's a big-time player, and he likes taking the big shots. I don't think he'll be a true superstar, but he will be a huge asset to any team he goes to.

[Aruba77]

I'd keep our 24th pick, and trade a player for another late round pick. I know CD said that he'd be happy if our pick just made the team, but this is truely a special draft, and I hope we can find 2 roster spots for badly needed youth. This draft can basically save us from caring about the next couple.

With that said here are my two:
Ike
Hodge

I doubt Ike will be around by 24, but Hodge might be. If McCants or Taft are still on the board at 24, we have to take the risk. I also think Luther Head will turn out to be a very good pg in this league, but better talent will probably be available at 24.

[askball]

I say Luther Head. It's a bit of a reach but I think the Rockets will play it safe and take the lockdown off-gaurd. He'd be a nice complement to T-Mac and since JVG doesnt play rookies much, he won't have any pressure to make a measurable impact any time soon.

[jopatmc]

Frankly, I think we are going to trade the pick to Memphis along with Wesley or Sura for Bonzi and the cooperation of Memphis in doing a sign and trade for Stromile. We may take their #19 and make the pick for them or whatever but Memphis needs to dump salary and we can accomodate them with some expirings for Bonzi plus some good, young talent.

I am just saying that players in the Jack mold are the kinds of players that we want. Jack and Hodge are scrappers who will fight you for 48 minutes, no matter how bad things look, and they will do anything to win. McCants is a great talent, no question. But he is selfish and is more interested in a payday right now than winning basketball games. Besides that, he's 6-3, on the short side for the off guard position in this league. He won't be able to defend the bigger 2s on the post up. We may take him and then try to trade down or something like that but I don't see him being a part of the rotation here. I could see Hodge and Jack fitting in here easily.

[mogrod]

I have a question.

I may have missed the info at some point, but have the Rockets even worked out Simien, Jack, Taft, or any of the others names being thrown around here?

I'm pretty positive I read they worked out Diogu but haven't seen they worked out any of the other PFs or PGs, other than that brief mention CD was overseas watching Ukic (who oddly enough looks like will be drafted at 18 a pick before the Grizzlies' 19).

Maybe the writing is on the wall in that they will trade up to get Diogu with Memphis' pick. Just a guess.

[dharocks]

Frankly, I think we are going to trade the pick to Memphis along with Wesley or Sura for Bonzi and the cooperation of Memphis in doing a sign and trade for Stromile. We may take their #19 and make the pick for them or whatever but Memphis needs to dump salary and we can accomodate them with some expirings for Bonzi plus some good, young talent.

I don't think Memphis need' to dump salary, though they likely aren't going to add salary either. If they were looking to dump salary, they don't really have a reason to trade Bonzi. They have a team option after next season, so technically he has an expiring contract.

Also, I'm not sure if we can actually trade for "the cooperation of Memphis in doing a sign and trade for Stromile."

If we do trade up, I wouldn't be surprised if it was with Toronto for #16 and Jalen Rose.

[jopatmc]

Not working out players is just a smokescreen a lot of times. The Rockets are as good as it gets at keeping their cards hidden and playing the poker face until the money is on the table.

[Like A Breath]

Taft got worse from his freshman to sophomore year, that is why his stock has slipped. He's just a lazy player that pouts. He also never runs the floor and let Troutman get all the hustle plays.

Regarding McCants and Villanueva: You're crazy if you think they are cancers. McCants was jacked up for every game and gave all out effort when the team needed it. He hit more big shots than I can remember.

Villanueva always stepped up big in crunchtime and started dominating the second half of the season. His stats are pretty good for the minutes he played(mainly because he shared time with Josh Boone, Hilton Armstrong, and Ed Nelson, all NBA prospects). I don't know why he gets the "lazy" label. A little reserved and too unselfish, yes, but certainly no cancer. By the way, they both won National Championships. They'd both be great picks for the Rockets.

[hooroo]

if Charlie Villanueva falls i hope we take him.

isn't he supposed to be eddie griffin the second coming or am i thinking of someone else?

[gucci888]

isn't he supposed to be eddie griffin the second coming or am i thinking of someone else?

He could be the next Eddie Griffin or the next Lamar Odom. I wouldn't put too much into draft comparisons on websites. There's no telling how players will pan out, Taft could turn out to be the best player in the draft.

[hooroo]

with all this talk about simien i just can't see him still availble by the time the rockets get to pick. there a whole lot of unkown euros being projected as high/mid 1st round picks. i expect a whole glut of them to drop down to the 2nd round on draft night.

[gucci888]

with all this talk about simien i just can't see him still availble by the time the rockets get to pick. there a whole lot of unkown euros being projected as high/mid 1st round picks. i expect a whole glut of them to drop down to the 2nd round on draft night.

Ya, I have the feeling someone is going to take Simien suprisingly early or at least before we do.

If Simien and Diogu are off the boards, I definitely see the Rockets picking up a guy like Garcia or Jack. I also wouldn't be suprised if they picked up Blatche either, if he is still there.

[don grahamleone]

This is killing me!

I've heard so many things about our options in the offseason and I can't wait to see things happen. Tomorrow and the few hours I'm awake before the draft will be grueling.

I know many of you feel the same. Just wanted vent. a ;lkfj;laskdjf;lask fj;lsadjf ;lasjdf

[JamesC]

This is killing me!

I've heard so many things about our options in the offseason and I can't wait to see things happen. Tomorrow and the few hours I'm awake before the draft will be grueling.


I do this every year the rockets have a first round pick. I'm so sleep deprived its not even funny. My girlfriend is getting upset with me cause everytime she asks me whats on my mind I tell her the rockets or the Nba draft.

[henrock]

Because he is the most athletic player in the draft, and we were one of the most unathletic teams in the league last season.

He really reminds of a mix between Prince, Marion, and Stro. He will have a hard time guarding the big PFs in the league, but then again, they would have a hard time guarding Warrick, especially w/ the attention Yao gets down low.


Warick only has range out to 10 Ft and he can't dribble. All he did in college was dunk the ball. This would be absolutely no help in making space for YAO. I know this 'cause I'm in Big East country and 'Cuse games are on all the time so I've seen him enough. Freakish athlete with no ball skills or size. As I said. A power forward in a shooting guards body

[micah1j]

I still think there is a 50% chance this pick gets traded before training camp. So who we pick is not so important.

[mogrod]

I still think there is a 50% chance this pick gets traded before training camp. So who we pick is not so important.

If the pick is not traded on draft day, then that player will be here for training camp.

Once a rookie is signed, you can't trade him for 3 months anyway.

[Aruba77]

I have a funny feeling that the Rockets will draft Luther Head. He's worked out twice for them, most recently yesterday. I really think this kid will turn out to be a solid pg. He's a senior, and tested off the charts at the combine, he has a sweet 3pt shot, and he is a nasty defender. Sounds like a CD and JVG guy. Apparently he has done well in workouts, and teams think he can run the point. This could be Houston's sleeper pick. ...or not, who the hell knows.

[okierock]

At the #24 pick, here is my wish list.

1. Warrick
2. Diogu
3. Simien
4. Hodge
5. Blatche
6. Jack

All of these guys are solid no nonsense guys that are self motivated and hard-working with the exception of Blatche the only reason he is in there is because his potential is worth the risk if one of our top 4 picks is not on the board. Picking potential after the top 10 picks is a mistake in my opinion but sometimes you take a chance.

One more thing. I think if we can trade next years pick for a pick this year then I am all for it as I believe the draft will be sub par next season because of the new draft rules.

[Nero]

Actually, with all the talk about how deep this draft is, I am beginning to wonder what is going to happen AFTER the draft..

Is it like the NFL, where, as soon as the draft is over, the GMs are on the phone with anyone they had pegged on their boards, but remained undfrafted, trying to sign these guys as FAs?

Since the NBA draft is usually so weak, I never paid much attention to this aspect of it.

How does it work exactly in the NBA?

I could see some seriously good players winding up not being drafted, and then actually being able to pick the best destinations for themselves.

It may even not be that big of a deal that we don't have a 2nd rd pick.

And, taking the NBDL under consideration, can a team have MORE than 15 players under contract at any given time? or is that the limit?

Unless we've all just been hoodwinked by the hype machine, this year's draft looks to be the strongest, overall, I have ever seen. Looks like there might be an embarassment of riches in the undrafted pool.

[ROXTXIA]

Can't help but wonder if the Rockets are targeting Ike Diogu.

ESPN the Magazine had an article on the guy. He worked out for two other teams that measured his height at 6'8" or close to that. The Rockets had him at 6'6".

Now, that's a bit of a disparity, isn't it? And then to make sure that information gets out there, when the Rockets are so secretive about their draft workouts.

[Willis25]

were signing a PF in free agency

... I say we go for a sleeper shooting guard like Luther Head - who can contribute now as a shooter off the bench, but can develop into a point guard down the line (after Chicago, he is starting to draw comparisons to Gilber Arenas)

[Rockets34Legend]

From Yahoo Sports:

Wayne Simien Draft Capsule

June 27, 2005

VITALS: 6-9, 255, Kansas

OVERVIEW: Simien finished his collegiate career 11th on the Kansas all-time scoring list with 1,593 points despite missing a full year - 32 games - with numerous injuries. This past season, the power forward led the Big 12 in both scoring and rebounding with 19.4 points and 11.1 boards despite missing four games due to surgery on his left thumb. Named the Big 12 Player of the Year, he was the only player in the league to average a double-double in those categories. Simien also was one of four finalists for the Naismith Award. Posting 59 career double-doubles, he finished seventh on the Jayhawks' all-time rebounding list with 884 boards.

LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Simien is a safe pick for any team anywhere in the draft. If he gets picked in the teens, you will know it is because that team decided to stop rolling the dice on young players with potential and instead decided to pick someone it knows can play. Simien could go in the high teens, but our feeling is that he will last until about 19, where Memphis is picking, or in the early 20s. Sacramento (23), Houston (24) and Seattle (25) would all be great fits for Simien.

COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Charles Oakley

COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Brian Grant

ROLE PROJECTION: Eventual starting power forward.

POSITIVES: Simien is a very conscientious player who rarely breaks a play, misses a defensive assignment or loses his composure. He works very hard on the defensive boards and is an excellent finisher around the basket. His offensive game has grown and now includes a facing jumper to go with a strong post-up game. From the time he was a high school star, NBA teams have been charting his progress, due to his NBA-ready physique and no-nonsense approach to the game. Simien is a coach's dream.

[PhiSlammaJamma]

My final draft: 100 Grand ;) to the person who comes closest, and don't expect me to keep score. You gonna have do that yourself.

Marvin Williams, SF 1 MIL 1
Andrew Bogut, C 2 ATL 2
Chris Paul, PG 3 POR 3
Deron Williams, PG 4 NO 4
Gerald Green, SF 5-Char 5
Raymond Felton, PG 6 UTA 6
Hakim Warrick, SF 7 TOR 7
Channing Frye, C 8 NY 8
C. Villanueva, PF 9 GS 9
Antoine Wright, SF 10 LAL 10
Martell Webster, SF 11 ORL 11
Jarrett Jack, PG 12 LAC 12
M. Andriuskevicius, C 13 CHA 13
Johan Petro, C 14 MIN 14
Fran Vazquez, PF 15 NJ 15
Y. Korolev, PF 16 TOR 16
Danny Granger, SF 17 IND 17
Roko Leni-Ukic, PG 18 BOS 18
Joey Graham, SF 19 MEM 19
Sean May, PF 20 DEN 20
Andrew Bynum, C 21 PHO 21
CJ Miles 6-6 210 SG TX HSSr22 DEN 22
Wayen Simien 23 SAC 23
Rashad McCants, SG 24 HOU 24
Ike Diogu, F 25 SEA 25
Ersan Ilyasova, F 26 DET 26
Andray Blatche, PF 27 UTA 27
Francisco Garcia, SG 28 SA 28
Chris Taft 29 MIA 29
Luther Head 30 NY 30

[bfunw]

My final draft: 100 Grand ;) to the person who comes closest, and don't expect me to keep score. You gonna have do that yourself.

Marvin Williams, SF 1 MIL 1
Andrew Bogut, C 2 ATL 2
Chris Paul, PG 3 POR 3
Deron Williams, PG 4 NO 4
Gerald Green, SF 5-Char 5
Raymond Felton, PG 6 UTA 6
Hakim Warrick, SF 7 TOR 7
Channing Frye, C 8 NY 8
C. Villanueva, PF 9 GS 9
Antoine Wright, SF 10 LAL 10
Martell Webster, SF 11 ORL 11
Jarrett Jack, PG 12 LAC 12
M. Andriuskevicius, C 13 CHA 13
Johan Petro, C 14 MIN 14
Fran Vazquez, PF 15 NJ 15
Y. Korolev, PF 16 TOR 16
Danny Granger, SF 17 IND 17
Roko Leni-Ukic, PG 18 BOS 18
Joey Graham, SF 19 MEM 19
Sean May, PF 20 DEN 20
Andrew Bynum, C 21 PHO 21
CJ Miles 6-6 210 SG TX HSSr22 DEN 22
Wayen Simien 23 SAC 23
Rashad McCants, SG 24 HOU 24
Ike Diogu, F 25 SEA 25
Ersan Ilyasova, F 26 DET 26
Andray Blatche, PF 27 UTA 27
Francisco Garcia, SG 28 SA 28
Chris Taft 29 MIA 29
Luther Head 30 NY 30

:eek: Someone is going to come closest and then you have to give away $100,000 no matter what. People should just try, its like a free lottery...........








Unless you mean something else *Cough* *Chocolate* *Cough* ;)

[NewRoxFan]

COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Charles Oakley

COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Brian Grant

ROLE PROJECTION: Eventual starting power forward.




Oakley at best and Grant at worse? With a #24? Gee, it sounds like a no-brainer. Something I am afraid the folks in Sacramento are also thinking since they have pretty similar needs as us...

[reddoglphie]

I hope we pick Jarrett Jack. Got lots of heart. I think we are missing that kind of player on our team.

[m_cable]

If the pick is not traded on draft day, then that player will be here for training camp.

Once a rookie is signed, you can't trade him for 3 months anyway.

But you don't have to sign a player after you draft him. I'm pretty sure that you can trade the draft rights to somebody else without waiting. Unless there is a particular rule that forbids it.

[mulletman]

I have a funny feeling that the Rockets will draft Luther Head. He's worked out twice for them, most recently yesterday. I really think this kid will turn out to be a solid pg. He's a senior, and tested off the charts at the combine, he has a sweet 3pt shot, and he is a nasty defender. Sounds like a CD and JVG guy. Apparently he has done well in workouts, and teams think he can run the point. This could be Houston's sleeper pick. ...or not, who the hell knows.

i dont know if it means much, but a few mock drafts now have the rockets taking luther head.

[Like A Breath]

Oakley at best and Grant at worst? :rolleyes: Please, these scouting reports are jokes. They think that everyone will be starters at worst.

Luther Head would be a very good pickup. Great athleticism and if he can make the Arenas-switch then he can be a good starter in the league. Even if he stays at SG, he'll most likely be an upgrade over Wesley.

[fa7999]

So you watched him one game where he missed an off-balanced three and thats proof enough that he can't "pump up his team"?

I guess you missed the game where UNC beat #1 UCONN and McCants hit the three to win at the buzzer?

I've seen all of McCants games the last 2 years, not just 1 tourny game ;) He's a big-time player, and he likes taking the big shots. I don't think he'll be a true superstar, but he will be a huge asset to any team he goes to.


McCants was not even a true PTP in college, let alone in the league. The best he can become is a Josh Howard, and the downside is fellow UNC brother Joe Forte.

[LongTimeFan]

McCants was not even a true PTP in college, let alone in the league. The best he can become is a Josh Howard, and the downside is fellow UNC brother Joe Forte.

:rolleyes:

Raymond Felton was the best player on the UNC team. Next was McCants, then May, Marvin, and so on. McCants is a shooter/scorer -- he'll be in the league a long time just based on that. Howard IMO is a terrible comparison, as is Forte -- but I've only watched him play every game for the last two years, so..

[jump shooter]

I have a funny feeling that the Rockets will draft Luther Head. He's worked out twice for them, most recently yesterday. I really think this kid will turn out to be a solid pg. He's a senior, and tested off the charts at the combine, he has a sweet 3pt shot, and he is a nasty defender. Sounds like a CD and JVG guy. Apparently he has done well in workouts, and teams think he can run the point. This could be Houston's sleeper pick. ...or not, who the hell knows.

I'm kinda leaning toward Luther Head myself, he is a phenomanal athlete, plays tough defense and can shoot the ball. He has alot of the things CD said they are looking for and he probably will be the best available player when #24 rolls around. Some say the Pistons are in love with him. JVG may hit the nail on the Head with this one.

[fa7999]

:rolleyes:

Raymond Felton was the best player on the UNC team. Next was McCants, then May, Marvin, and so on. McCants is a shooter/scorer -- he'll be in the league a long time just based on that. Howard IMO is a terrible comparison, as is Forte -- but I've only watched him play every game for the last two years, so..

I am not saying that McCants is a Howard or Forte type player. I am just using them as an example on what I think his ceiling and floor as a player is. The better comparison will be Jerry Stackhouse, but I don't see McCants having that kind of career.

Marvin is UNC's best player, at least the one with the best potential. Raymond Felton is all right. He will be another Jeff McInnis type guy down the road: a solid role player on a decent team, and that's it.

[Believe]

I am not saying that McCants is a Howard or Forte type player. I am just using them as an example on what I think his ceiling and floor as a player is. The better comparison will be Jerry Stackhouse, but I don't see McCants having that kind of career.

Marvin is UNC's best player, at least the one with the best potential. Raymond Felton is all right. He will be another Jeff McInnis type guy down the road: a solid role player on a decent team, and that's it.


I'll take a Josh Howard type of player any day! McCants will be in the league a while I am sure... but J Howard changes games (DEFENSIVELY). He is only gonna get better.

If McCants had J Stackhouses size we would not be talking about selecting him. He would be in the lotto.

[LongTimeFan]

I am not saying that McCants is a Howard or Forte type player. I am just using them as an example on what I think his ceiling and floor as a player is. The better comparison will be Jerry Stackhouse, but I don't see McCants having that kind of career.

Marvin is UNC's best player, at least the one with the best potential. Raymond Felton is all right. He will be another Jeff McInnis type guy down the road: a solid role player on a decent team, and that's it.

Marvin came off the bench, how does that make him our best player? Yes, he has the most potential -- but he wasn't even the 3rd best player on the team.

McCants lacks the size to be a true all-star, but he still should be a great player and make a difference on any team that drafts him.

And you heard it here first, Felton will be better than Chris Paul ;) He's a bigger version of TJ Ford, with a better shot and vision IMO. Felton's one knock throughout was that he couldn't shoot, but his last year shows how far he's come -- he was knocking it down consistently from NBA range in the tourny.

[HillBoy]

I wish I shared the enthusiasm of those on this board. I have to confess that I simply have lost faith in this team's ability to spot talent especially if it's Dawson doing the picking. My head is telling me that they will somehow manage to botch this pick as they have done so many other times. Today's Chronicle listed their first round picks since 1990 and dear God, it was most depressing. Here is a recap:

1990: Dave Jamerson
1991: John Turner
1992: Robert Horry
1993: Sam Cassell
1997: Rodrick Rhodes
1998: Michael Dickerson, Bryce Drew, Mirsad Turkcan
1999: Kenny Thomas
2000: Jason Collier
2001: Eddie Griffin
2002: Yao Ming,Bostjan Nachbar

They've had no first round picks since the Ming draft (traded away). No wonder there's a talent void on this team.

[The Real Shady]

I wish I shared the enthusiasm of those on this board. I have to confess that I simply have lost faith in this team's ability to spot talent especially if it's Dawson doing the picking. My head is telling me that they will somehow manage to botch this pick as they have done so many other times. Today's Chronicle listed their first round picks since 1990 and dear God, it was most depressing. Here is a recap:

1990: Dave Jamerson
1991: John Turner
1992: Robert Horry
1993: Sam Cassell
1997: Rodrick Rhodes
1998: Michael Dickerson, Bryce Drew, Mirsad Turkcan
1999: Kenny Thomas
2000: Jason Collier
2001: Eddie Griffin
2002: Yao Ming,Bostjan Nachbar

They've had no first round picks since the Ming draft (traded away). No wonder there's a talent void on this team.

The Rockets were able to get good talent at the end of the first round in '93 and '99. In 2005 we are due for another one.

[Rocketman15]

Chris Taft

CD will have wanted Diogu he will get taken b4 we get a chance to get him.

I would love to draft Warrick or Simien but I think Warrick's stock is too high and simien is too low.

[Clutch]

I'm very excited about the draft -- it's always like Christmas to me. I can't wait until tomorrow.

To throw my prediction in there: The conspiracy theorist in me says the Rockets have said nothing about the draft and aren't even holding a draft party, so perhaps they trade the pick for a player, or a couple of second rounders.

I'm hoping for Simien or Diogu, but honestly there are several players that intrigue me. I'll say we come away with Simien though.

What excites me and bothers me about this draft is the depth. While we're excited about getting a Wayne Simien, Chris Taft, Ike Diogu, etc., many mocks have these same guys going to the Pistons, Heat or Spurs after us. Glad Dallas doesn't have their pick.

[jump shooter]

Draftexpress.com is reporting that the rockets maybe trading out of the 1st round with Atlanta, Houston is supposedly targeting Luther Head but might not be on the board at 24 according to his agent Mark Bartelstein. Head will probably be selected in the teens leaving the rockets to select from a crop of raw European small forwards. The hawks are wanting to trade up from#31 to #24 in order to go after Ukic. Also on realgm.com

[stevel]

I'm very excited about the draft -- it's always like Christmas to me. I can't wait until tomorrow.

To throw my prediction in there: The conspiracy theorist in me says the Rockets have said nothing about the draft and aren't even holding a draft party, so perhaps they trade the pick for a player, or a couple of second rounders.

I'm hoping for Simien or Diogu, but honestly there are several players that intrigue me. I'll say we come away with Simien though.

What excites me and bothers me about this draft is the depth. While we're excited about getting a Wayne Simien, Chris Taft, Ike Diogu, etc., many mocks have these same guys going to the Pistons, Heat or Spurs after us. Glad Dallas doesn't have their pick.

Don't know the quality of this site but draftexpress said there are reports of us trading down with ATL and targeting Luther Head. CD was just on 790 and I caught the end of it. Cahrlie mentioned staying tuned for the 2nd because there could be some action from us. Head would be a solid choice but it seems as if his stock is rising and he may not be there. If we could trade dwon and somehow get an extra 2nd round pick and come away with Head and either Hodge of Lee that would be pretty sweet. If we stay where they are and Taft is there he could be a great fit for us.

[jump shooter]

Draftexpress.com is reporting that the rockets maybe trading out of the 1st round with Atlanta, Houston is supposedly targeting Luther Head but might not be on the board at 24 according to his agent Mark Bartelstein. Head will probably be selected in the teens leaving the rockets to select from a crop of raw European small forwards. The hawks are wanting to trade up from#31 to #24 in order to go after Ukic. Also on realgm.com

If the rockets do trade the with Atlanta at #31 I would love to see them take Alan Anderson from Michigan State 6'6 220 or Nate Robinson.

[jopatmc]

If the rockets do trade the with Atlanta at #31 I would love to see them take Alan Anderson from Michigan State 6'6 220 or Nate Robinson.

What else would we be getting from Atlanta to move down?

[jump shooter]

What else would we be getting from Atlanta to move down?

Its on draftexpress.com and found the article on realgm.com

[Baqui99]

I'm very excited about the draft -- it's always like Christmas to me.

That would explain all the fruitcakes and striped socks we've been drafting.

[Sooner423]

What else would we be getting from Atlanta to move down?

I guess we wouldn't have to deal with a guaranteed contract. Other than that, I don't know. They hardly have anyone under contract:
Al Harrington, Tony Delk, Predrag Drobnjak, Josh Childress, Jason Collier, Josh Smith, Boris Diaw-Riffiod
None of them really make any sense, except for maybe Harrington or Childress.

[percicles]

Maybe theyll take Juwon of our hands. I doubt it though but it would be nice.

[A-Mac]

Wayne Simien or Hakim Warrick if he last. Both are good at their respective games. Hakim is like KG and Wayne can be considered the next mailman.

[micah1j]

I hope we take on of these guys.

1. Ike Diogu
2. Francisco Garcia
3. Wayne Simien
4. Andray Blatche

One of these guys should be available.

[serious black]

I'm predicting a Euro which I'm not happy about. As the Rockets have been so tight-lipped and there is no draft party announced, I'm guessing we're going to do what we have done the past two years and draft a player to leave overseas.
This is not what I want, btw, it is what I predict.

[Relativist]

Don't know the quality of this site but draftexpress said there are reports of us trading down with ATL and targeting Luther Head. CD was just on 790 and I caught the end of it. Cahrlie mentioned staying tuned for the 2nd because there could be some action from us. Head would be a solid choice but it seems as if his stock is rising and he may not be there. If we could trade dwon and somehow get an extra 2nd round pick and come away with Head and either Hodge of Lee that would be pretty sweet. If we stay where they are and Taft is there he could be a great fit for us.

In a draft with this sort of reported depth, that could be a good move. We could pick up a project like Houstonian Andray Blatche, stash him in the NBDL for a couple years, and resign him for a longer deal if we think he has potential on the cheap (since the pick would have gotten little exposure in the NBDL. I don't know.

Clutch, I could see us trading down for second-rounders. L.A. and Golden State both have two second-round picks apiece in the top third of the second-round.

[rvpals]

I can't wait for Tomorrow's draft. Too many uncertainties regarding our needs and the kind of players we can get. :mad:

[rvpals]

I wish I shared the enthusiasm of those on this board. I have to confess that I simply have lost faith in this team's ability to spot talent especially if it's Dawson doing the picking. My head is telling me that they will somehow manage to botch this pick as they have done so many other times. Today's Chronicle listed their first round picks since 1990 and dear God, it was most depressing. Here is a recap:

1990: Dave Jamerson
1991: John Turner
1992: Robert Horry
1993: Sam Cassell
1997: Rodrick Rhodes
1998: Michael Dickerson, Bryce Drew, Mirsad Turkcan
1999: Kenny Thomas
2000: Jason Collier
2001: Eddie Griffin
2002: Yao Ming,Bostjan Nachbar

They've had no first round picks since the Ming draft (traded away). No wonder there's a talent void on this team.

I think the Eddie Griffin thing set us back several years.

[bigboymumu]

Take this for what it is worth.

Of the players that will be available when we pick: my friend likes

Diogu
Nate Robinson
Lee

He said he likes Stoudamire but doesn't think he will be available when we pick. Apparently, he shot lights out when he was in town. He also mentioned that anyone we get in the draft will not make an impact on the team this year.

As for some other issues:

Yao wants Deke back
Yao is going to stay and sign the extension
Moochie, Baker, Ward are gone
He also said Weatherspoon was our 3rd highest paid player. Dont know why he mentioned that. Is that right?
We need a pure point guard
Sura is having surgery

[Zacatecas]

:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

We won our two titles in Sam I Am's first two years. Define "get his act together".


Cassel was instant offense but he didn't play the way the Rockets needed him the whole game. He often ball hogged and ignored the team concept.

The team was built around Hakeem to suceed. It was at that time that if Cassel would not have gotten into a groove, then Scotty Brooks would have continued to back up Kenny Smith. Cassell could not be depended on to run a team as a point guard, until later in his career. He was a bit too selfish early in his career (but that was a good thing for a 6th man). Now you look at Cassel and he averages 7 to 8 assists a game. THAT IS WHAT I MEAN, HE GREW INTO HIS ROLE, AND GOT HIS ACT TOGETHER.

Right now James is doing what Cassel did, but the role players aren't around Yao and McGrady for that instant offense to be taken advantage of!

[3814]

ike diogu


i wish we could somehow get nate robinson too...rox should definately try trading for him.

[PhiSlammaJamma]

Yao Draft Day Photo
http://www.nba.com/media/rockets/ming_170_020626.jpg

[PhiSlammaJamma]

http://www.nba.com/media/rockets/nachbar_020627_hp.jpg

[UTKaluman597]

ike diogu


i wish we could somehow get nate robinson too...rox should definately try trading for him.


while nate is on another level athletically, hes only 5'9. I dont think he could ever be a starting pg and we already have a good backup in MJ so i dont really see why we would need him.. but if we were to have a mid to late 2nd round pick i wouldnt be against picking him. Also i hope we dont get Head at 24 because i have a feeling he will be around later so lets try and get an early 2nd round pick and see if we can nab him there.

[HillBoy]

In a draft with this sort of reported depth, that could be a good move. We could pick up a project like Houstonian Andray Blatche, stash him in the NBDL for a couple years, and resign him for a longer deal if we think he has potential on the cheap (since the pick would have gotten little exposure in the NBDL. I don't know.

Clutch, I could see us trading down for second-rounders. L.A. and Golden State both have two second-round picks apiece in the top third of the second-round.
A sound strategy for sure but the problem with that scenario is that this team does not have the luxury of essentially coming away from yet another draft empty handed. They have nothing tangible to show for the last 4 drafts save for yao and his was a no brainer pick. From the last 2 drafts all they have to show is 2 guys over in Europe who are long shots at best but neither can be considered ready to help now. Adding another body to that list does NOTHING to even begin to address the competitive gap they face with the Spurs, Mavericks, Suns and so on. IMHO, if they trade down to the 2nd round - given their pathetic history of spotting talent - then this draft will be another bust.

[LongTimeFan]

Take this for what it is worth.


He said he likes Stoudamire but doesn't think he will be available when we pick. Apparently, he shot lights out when he was in town. He also mentioned that anyone we get in the draft will not make an impact on the team this year.



I really like Stoudamire too, but gone at 24? :eek: He's slated to go 2nd round in every mock draft I've seen (albeit not many) -- and I haven't heard too much buzz about his stock rising..

[bu2002]

1998: Michael Dickerson, Bryce Drew, Mirsad Turkcan
1999: Kenny Thomas
2000: Jason Collier
2001: Eddie Griffin
2002: Yao Ming,Bostjan Nachbar

In those 5 years, the rockets had 10 first round draft picks when you consider they gave up 3 1st rounders to get Eddie Griffin. And the only one they really hit on was the number 1 pick they had where intense scouting wasn't as necessary. But the draft record overall the last 6-7 years is embarassing. I wouldn't get my hopes up tommorrow for the player the rockets get. While the draft can be exciting and fun to watch0, when its over, i would advise everyone to temper their expectations for whoever the rockets choose.

[The Cat]

1998: Michael Dickerson, Bryce Drew, Mirsad Turkcan
1999: Kenny Thomas
2000: Jason Collier
2001: Eddie Griffin
2002: Yao Ming,Bostjan Nachbar

In those 5 years, the rockets had 10 first round draft picks when you consider they gave up 3 1st rounders to get Eddie Griffin. And the only one they really hit on was the number 1 pick they had where intense scouting wasn't as necessary. But the draft record overall the last 6-7 years is embarassing. I wouldn't get my hopes up tommorrow for the player the rockets get. While the draft can be exciting and fun to watch0, when its over, i would advise everyone to temper their expectations for whoever the rockets choose.

I'm not going to act like the Rockets have one of the best scouting departments in the game because they don't, but at pick 24, you need to temper your expectations no matter what team picks it. Too many fans carry that NFL draft mentality that a first round pick will automatically be a key contributor. The reality of the NBA draft is that once you get outside of the top 7-10 picks, it becomes a crapshoot and the odds of finding even a decent rotation player (much less a starter) are 50-50 at best. Dickerson was a more than solid 14 pick before he ran into injuries. Thomas was a real find for a pick in the 20s. Collier, Nachbar, Drew and Turkcan (15, 15, 16, 18) all sucked, but given their draft positions, it's not like it's embarassingly bad. When you look back historically at the draft picks at those spots, you'll find a whole lot of complete stinkers. That said, it still doesn't excuse the Griffin debacle, since that was at a pick where you should always expect production.

We haven't added much excitement in recent years through the draft, but unless you're consistently picking in the top 10 you shouldn't expect to (unless you have an excellent scouting system like the Spurs/Mavs). We aren't at that level, but I don't think we're embarassingly bad either.

[Zacatecas]

For the talk that Griffin was a major bust, the reward outweighed the risks at the time. If you go back to see the 2001 draft, you have Murphy, Jefferson, Randolph, Parker, Radmonovich who shined. And at the time when Griffin had generaly been viewed as the # 1 pick, I would still make the Griffin selection. Of course without the knowledge he is probably clinically insane!!!


But, the previous was just to illustrate a point. The Rockets haven't had great luck with the Draft, but there are teams that are consistently in the Lottery and still can't get the talent to join the playoff teams. Look at Golden State, the Clippers, the Hawks, the Grizzleys before Hubie, etc.

Even without the great picks, the Rockets have been able to put a winning or competitive club the last couple of years.

At the 24th pick the odds of getting a great players aren't high. In fact if the Rockets happen to get a good rotation player with their history and that of the league; then this would have been the 2nd best draft in since 2000. Of course the Yao Ming pick is at the top of the list. Let's not get carried away with the Draft.

[mogrod]

I saw, in the ESPN Draft Preview show, that they featured this Euro-player who they said would go in the 20's and would dramitically help a playoff contender.

He looks pretty good and would be a nice pickup for the Rockets.

His name is Mickaël Gelabale.

6'7 SF, athlete, jump out of the gym, good slashing skills, REAL good defender.

Compared to Bruce Bowen but with better offense.

[ESource]

24th pick - Francisco Garcia, SG, Louisville

*Then we sign Chris Anderson, PF to be our starter alongside Yao.....In fact, I just have a gut feeling The Roxs and Anderson already have a "handshake deal" in place.....

[Sooner423]

24th pick - Francisco Garcia, SG, Louisville

*Then we sign Chris Anderson, PF to be our starter alongside Yao.....In fact, I just have a gut feeling The Roxs and Anderson already have a "handshake deal" in place.....

I hope you're right. I'm big on Andersen.

[gucci888]

24th pick - Francisco Garcia, SG, Louisville

*Then we sign Chris Anderson, PF to be our starter alongside Yao.....In fact, I just have a gut feeling The Roxs and Anderson already have a "handshake deal" in place.....

Garcia would be a solid pick at #24, but I think someone will take him before we get a chance.

As for Anderson, we would be in a lot of trouble if we was our starter next season. And plus, I have a gut feeling that we have a "handshake deal" with Swift. ;)

[ESource]

I hope you're right. I'm big on Andersen.
Anderson seems to have exactly what the team needs: the passion to do the dirty work! He doesn't need to score, not with T-Mac and Yao providing that. We just need him to bang, rebound, bang, rebound.....I hope I'm right, too... :)

[ESource]

Garcia would be a solid pick at #24, but I think someone will take him before we get a chance.

As for Anderson, we would be in a lot of trouble if we was our starter next season. And plus, I have a gut feeling that we have a "handshake deal" with Swift. ;)
Swift has off-the-charts athleticism BUT his lack of production and seemingly lack of heart worries me. The reason I really like Anderson for the team is because he'll do the dirty work AND love it! I think he could be a Poor Man's Dennis Rodman for us sans the drama......

Can't wait to find out tomorrow about our pick. Garcia has a sweet jumper and would look great on Rocket red..... :cool:

[seclusion]

anderson is terrible. get over him.

[SuperS32]

anderson is terrible. get over him.

agreed...

It's looking more and more like the Rockets are taking Head...even if they don't, I just have a feeling CD will reach ala Roderick Rhodes, and we'll be spending the summer trying to figure out what he was thinking. I'm sure Taft, Simien and/or even Diagu will be on the board - Clutchfans goes crazy - and boom - "the Houston (pronounced "Huzton" by Stern) Rockets select Kennedy Winston/Luther Head/Filberto Rivera/Matt Walsh"

[giddyup]

Andray Blatche

If you don't expect to get someone who can help that much immediately, why not go for a guy who might be great in 3 years?

[Hank McDowell]

anderson is terrible. get over him.

Disagreed.

He's about as athletic as Stromile Swift but without any of the drama or character concerns. He has no ego. He doesn't need to score. He plays defense and throws his body around. We're not talking Ryan Bowen here. Chris Anderson is a FREAK athlete who runs the floor well and can jump out of the building.

I pray to all things Holy though that CD doesn't find a way to ruin this draft though. I have absolutely no confidence in CD whatsoever, so while I hope for the best, I am expecting the worst....


"The Rockets trade the 24th pick to Atlanta for Tyronn Lue and a 2nd round draft pick...."


Or something along those lines!

[Dubious]

His name is Mickaël Gelabale.

Hey man, quit gravytraining my pick.

[Nero]

AAAAARGH.

Can this day go any slower??????

[gucci888]

Andray Blatche

If you don't expect to get someone who can help that much immediately, why not go for a guy who might be great in 3 years?

I would love to pick up a guy like Blatche, if he is still on the boards. He's an athletic 7-footer that can play SF/PF/C. He has a nice jumper, which can go all the way out to 3-pt land.

[mulletman]

AAAAARGH.

Can this day go any slower??????

relax, its only 8 more hours until draft time :p

[jump shooter]

In the article called The Third of Three Letters from a Hat-Swapping Draft on Realgm.com they mention - Chris Taft remains one of the most intriguing stories of the draft. Nearly everyone I spoke to on Monday about the Pittsburgh forward believes he is destined to fall to the 2nd round, which is contrary to a statement made to me last week, which had him going to Houston at #24, but Sacramento's 23rd pick looks taylor made for Taft. I think Christoper Reina executive editor of realgm.com wrote the article.

Taft is a beast.

[mogrod]

Hey man, quit gravytraining my pick.

huh?

That was the first time I mentioned him and never knew anyone, let alone yourself, brought his name up.

I was just mentioning him only because they were talking about him last night on ESPN and he seemed he could be a good fit here.

[Little O]

I think we are going to look internationally yet again if we don't trade the pick. I am hoping for Fran Vazquez, but think that we could end up with Yaroslav Korolev or Ersan Ilyasova or Mickaël Gelabale.

We are looking for an athletic swingman not a PF that won't amount to much more than Kenny Thomas, Mo Taylor, or Juwann Howard. We already have those.

[JuanValdez]

Ok, my guess is Hodge.

[ESource]

anderson is terrible. get over him.
terrible at what? scoring? offensive game? cuz I know you're not talking about his hustle, his rebounding, his bangin' under the boards.....gee, kinda like what the Rockets really need on the team..... :confused:

[ESource]

Disagreed.

He's about as athletic as Stromile Swift but without any of the drama or character concerns. He has no ego. He doesn't need to score. He plays defense and throws his body around. We're not talking Ryan Bowen here. Chris Anderson is a FREAK athlete who runs the floor well and can jump out of the building.

I pray to all things Holy though that CD doesn't find a way to ruin this draft though. I have absolutely no confidence in CD whatsoever, so while I hope for the best, I am expecting the worst....


"The Rockets trade the 24th pick to Atlanta for Tyronn Lue and a 2nd round draft pick...."


Or something along those lines!
agreed..... :)

[solidrocketfan]

Anyone know if ESPN radio will broadcast the draft nationwide? I'm in Phoenix and will be driving home when draft starts.

[Dr of Dunk]

Anyone know if ESPN radio will broadcast the draft nationwide? I'm in Phoenix and will be driving home when draft starts.

If you go to www.espnradio.com, you'll see a link for some type of draft coverage on the upper right. It seems like they'll have at least minimal if not full coverage beginning at 6:20 Central time.

[Believe]

The day is creeping by waaaaayyyyy too slow.....

[solidrocketfan]

If you go to www.espnradio.com, you'll see a link for some type of draft coverage on the upper right. It seems like they'll have at least minimal if not full coverage beginning at 6:20 Central time.

Found it. Thanks. Phx local station is AM 860.

[solidrocketfan]

Just heard on ESPN Radio that Portland traded #3 pick to Utah for their #6 and #27 first round picks plus conditional future first round pick.

[523744]

...does anyone know what time the draft is on tv and when it ends?

[glynch]

My take. We have statments or hints that the Rockets will make a trades(s) and will take risks. I think it is unlikely that they will do nothing but risky possibly high return behavior in both the trade and the draft..

Are they going to try to take their risk on the trade or the draft? They will try to get a swing man-guard in one venue and the big man in the other. It all depends on who they have in mind to trade for. If it is a relatively safe big man they will go guard in the draft. Anyone they draft is a risk of being a bust, though I suppose you can count on Simien to be a backup poward forward better than Ryan Bowen, at least in rebounding.

Prediction. Bonzi (small somewhat risky veteran) and Simien (somewhat safe large draftee.) They will take the risk on the veteran's character and the always present risk on the draftees talent.

If I am thinking possible championship I would like to see them go high potential in the draft. Taft, Blatche etc who could be stars in two to three years.

If I am thinking next year I would go with the Bonzi-Simien type plan. Hopefully we will get lucky and Simien will be another Carlos Boozer in which case next year will be good and we will have a shot at a championship in three years.

[Sooner423]

Disagreed.

He's about as athletic as Stromile Swift but without any of the drama or character concerns. He has no ego. He doesn't need to score. He plays defense and throws his body around. We're not talking Ryan Bowen here. Chris Anderson is a FREAK athlete who runs the floor well and can jump out of the building.

I pray to all things Holy though that CD doesn't find a way to ruin this draft though. I have absolutely no confidence in CD whatsoever, so while I hope for the best, I am expecting the worst....


"The Rockets trade the 24th pick to Atlanta for Tyronn Lue and a 2nd round draft pick...."


Or something along those lines!


Tyronn isn't under contract, so, thankfully, that won't happen. Maybe they will take on Wards contract:
#24 and Ward for #31 and Diaw

[FishBulb913]

Tyronn isn't under contract, so, thankfully, that won't happen. Maybe they will take on Wards contract:
#24 and Ward for #31 and Diaw


it would just be 24 for 31 and Diaw

[Sooner423]

it would just be 24 for 31 and Diaw

I haven't seen much of Diaw. Is he that good? Just looking at stats, I am not impressed. All of his numbers are bad. We would probably be doing them a favor by taking on his contract.

[TigerBait]

ESPN mentioned Mickaël Gelabale (http://nbadraft.net/profiles/mickaelgelebale.asp) as the sleeper for anyone in the 20's, and the "international evaluator" for ESPN said that he would be a steal for whoever takes him. Anyone heard of or seen this guy?

[rikesh316]

I think the Rockets will select Mickaël Gelabale of France.

[Aruba77]

Every time I talk about trading into the second round, all my friends jump down my throat, but if we could get some more early 2nd-round picks to move back a few spots, wouldn't that be a smart thing to do given that this is a deep draft? I personally like Nate Robinson, Julius Hodge, Luther Head, all of whom might be there early in Round 2. Even Taft, Lee, and Garcia might be there. (Garcia would be doubtful, but possible)

[JoeBarelyCares]

I'm guessing this is the Rocket's wish list:

1. Luther Head
2. Kennedy Winston
3. Jarrett Jack
4. Francisco Garcia

No PF pick. Maybe a trade for Darius Miles or Ruben Patterson?

[Miguel]

For those of you who don't have access to TV's and you guys that will be following the draft by way of CF.net, here's Sportsradio610's streaming radio link. They're playing the Comets game on over the Air (AM radio) but will be switching over to Matt/Adam for the webstream.

Join SportsRadio 610, for the FIRST live audio streaming of the NBA Draft this evening at 7pm via website.

SportsRadio 610's Nighshift with Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler, along with SR610's Sports Director, Dave Harbison, will bring all of the NBA Draft coverage straight to your computers.

Dave Harbison will be reporting live from Houston Rockets’ Draft Central.

Click here to hear the EXCLUSIVE coverage of the NBA Draft!

Plus, your chance to win a Yao Ming autographed basketball during our coverage.

You can only win by listening to the stream.

[Dirk_Diggler]

Taft
Greene
Simien

[Dubious]

I think the Rockets will select Mickaël Gelabale of France.

Come on guys I dubsed Gelabale way back on the first page so I could be the only one. I wanted to be singularly recognized as an evil genuis when his named is called tonight at #24 only then to be reviled moments later as the jinx that has cursed the Rockets with Boki II.

[HillBoy]

Anyone know if ESPN radio will broadcast the draft nationwide? I'm in Phoenix and will be driving home when draft starts.
Yes, ESPN radio will be carrying the draft live.

[HoRockets]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=dw-rumors062805&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Ersan Ilyasova, the 6-9 small forward from Turkey, cancelled a workout Monday with the Houston Rockets, and the belief is he has been promised by some team that it will select him.

Speaking of the Rockets, even though they need a power forward, they will take the best player available at No. 24. Not the best prospect – the best player. They want someone who can come in and contribute immediately.

Of course the writer says all rumors uncomfirmed.

[emoreland]

My hope is for CJ Miles. He has great size and good strength. Can really, really shoot and has good post up moves. A high-schooler who can be special in 3 years. Plays under control and can create shots for himself

I hope hes available. 6'6 is ideal for a two-guard.

[dragonsnake]

Chris Taft

[white lightning]

Marty Burns was just on ESPN radio and he was asked to pick a sleeper in the late first/ 2nd round who could turn into a great player. He picked Luther Head, then Salim Stoudamire.

[jopatmc]

Yeah, let's get Diaw, that Gelable kid, and Turiaf and then we can call our bench "The French Connection".