NBA Lockout and our draft prospects... Link If there's been a silver lining to our woes this season, its been the prospect of getting a high draft pick for next season- either by way of a Knicks swap, or sticking with our own. But with the distinct possibility of a lockout, I'm guessing that some top prospects will delay declaring for the NBA Draft until 2012, which could leave the 2011 draft lacking in overall talent. I guess the question is this: supposing that this team continues as most of us project (slight improvement, likely end the season at .500 or somewhat below), what is the best next step? Many have suggested trading for a superstar, but the potential for that taking place is remote. Moving up in the draft was considered to be a more realistic ambition, but now there may not be anyone worth trading up for.....
I say if we don't get a top 3 or 4 pick then move the pick for young talent that might be available, it might be at the cost of taking on a crap deal like Rubio/Darko but this team needs cornerstone players badly.
Didn't that draft also have Rudy Gay? All-stars are not a barometer for skilled players or draft depth. Lowry came out of that draft also if I'm not mistaken, in the late first round. Barnes is not the only good player in this pool. Just watching this K-State Duke game it's clear that Kyrie Irving is not long for the NCAA. He is embarrassing Pullen with his ballhandling, and that court vision has led to two halfcourt sets where he racked assists from the mid-court line, as well as numerous incredible passes where his big men screwed up the finish. Man he's a doozie, could be the next Chris Paul.
As long as we are in the top 5, we don't have to worry about the "talent drain" or whatever. The top 5 in this draft is decent.
