Round 1 - http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draf...ory?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-110621 Round 2 - http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draf...umnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-Round2-110621 Can someone post it?
With the NBA draft two days away, it's time to take our first full look at how both rounds will play out Thursday. Teams continue to narrow down their lists, but with tons of trade talk and last-minute workouts taking place, there still are plenty of things up in the air. Here's our best stab, after talking to numerous NBA team sources, at all 60 picks. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>1</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Cleveland (via L.A. Clippers) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Kyrie Irving </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 191 pounds Age: 19 School: Duke</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Two days before the draft, the Cavs are still claiming they haven't made up their mind. ESPN's Ric Bucher reported the Cavs had settled on Irving on Monday, but while the report was running on the ticker, owner Dan Gilbert was meeting with Derrick Williams in Cleveland. While sources continue to point toward Irving's being the No. 1 pick, Williams' camp is holding out hope that it has a chance. Could the Cavs still have concerns about Irving's toe? Or are they worried that at No. 4 they can't get a solid big man? <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>2</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Minnesota </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Derrick Williams </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 249 Age: 20 School: Arizona</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Still hearing the Wolves are hoping to get a great offer for the No. 2 pick. Hearing the best one they have right now is from Phoenix (Marcin Gortat and the No. 13 pick). If they can't find a trade they like, they'll swallow hard, take Williams and work out the rest this summer via trades. If they get Williams, Michael Beasley could be gone by the time the season starts. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>3</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Utah (via New Jersey) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Brandon Knight </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 177 Age: 19 School: Kentucky </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Jazz have had virtually every prospect in the draft come in for a workout. It doesn't sound like they are in love with anyone at No. 3. Knight and Kemba Walker are both possibilities if the Jazz go with a guard. Big men Enes Kanter and Jan Vesely also are getting a look here. I'm hearing there's a slight preference for Knight right now, but truthfully it sounds like all four players are still in the mix at No. 3. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>4</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Cleveland </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Enes Kanter </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: C Height: 6-11 Weight: 260 Age: 19 Country: Turkey </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: We had Jonas Valanciunas in this position last week. But on Monday, we reported Valanciunas' buyout with his team in Lithuania would prohibit him from coming to the NBA next season. The Cavs love Valanciunas, but do they love him enough to draft him even if he won't be coming to the NBA next season? I doubt it at No. 4. The Cavs have been exploring a number of trade possibilities to move down a few spots in the draft. If they stay here, I think Kanter is their guy. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>5</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Toronto </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Jan Vesely </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-11 Weight: 240 Age: 21 Country: Czech Republic </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Bryan Colangelo saw both Vesely and Bismack Biyombo this weekend in New York. Biyombo is a much bigger leap of faith at No. 5 than Vesely is. Kemba Walker and Kawhi Leonard are in the mix as well. But Vesley has been the favorite for a while, and I think he still is. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>6</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Washington </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Kawhi Leonard </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-7 Weight: 228 Age: 19 School: San Diego State </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Wizards need rebounding and would love it if Enes Kanter was still on the board. They also have been huge fans of Vesely and would jump at the chance to take him here. But if they're both off the board, this pick comes down to Leonard, Tristan Thompson and Klay Thompson. It might be a tough call for the Wizards, but the smart money is on Leonard. The Wizards have been all over him all year. He's tough, he's versatile and if he ever learns to really shoot the basketball ... watch out. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>7</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Sacramento </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Kemba Walker </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-1 Weight: 184 Age: 21 School: UConn </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: This becomes a tough call if Kawhi Leonard is off the board. The Kings need help at both small forward and the point. The only other small forward to really consider here is Chris Singleton. The Kings do like him, but he might be a reach at No. 7. Of the point guards left on the board, the Kings can choose between Walker and Jimmer Fredette. Walker might be the safer pick. He's a leader, he can play right now, and he brings toughness and character. But I'm not sure he's the best fit. Fredette, as we've been writing for the past three weeks, is the dark horse here. The Maloof brothers love him, he's probably a better fit in the Kings' backcourt than Walker and the fans in Sacramento would love him. Also don't count out Alec Burks. Sources say he had a terrific workout in Sacramento, and the Kings think he could be a point guard at the next level. He's a long shot but worth mentioning here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>8</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Detroit </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Bismack Biyombo </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 243 Age: 18 Country: Congo </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: We've had the Pistons taking Valanciunas the past few weeks, but with Valanciunas now planning on returning to Europe for another year, I don't think the Pistons will take the chance. With Kemba Walker also off the board, the Pistons are down to two prospects -- Biyombo and Tristan Thompson. Thompson has upside, but from what I can gather, the team is still very high on Biyombo. The Pistons know how to develop a defensive stopper like this. This pick might come down to what happens at Tuesday's workout between Thompson and Biyombo. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>9</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Charlotte </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Marcus Morris </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 230 Age: 21 School: Kansas</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Bobcats have a number of needs, but sources say they are prioritizing taking a veteran college player who can contribute right away. It sounds like the team is down to Morris, Chris Singleton, Klay Thompson and Alec Burks here. Morris might be the least sexy player of the group, but he also might be the safest. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>10</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Milwaukee </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"> Klay Thompson </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-7 Weight: 206 Age: 21 School: Washington St. </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: I think this pick likely comes down to Thompson and Alec Burks. They play the same position, but have different strengths. Thompson is a shooter, Burks is a slasher. With the Bucks telling me pretty strongly that they're holding on to Brandon Jennings as their point guard, and with the team making a strong drive to get back in the playoffs, I think Thompson is a better fit. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>11</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Golden State </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Alec Burks </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SG Height: 6-6 Weight: 193 Age: 19 School: Colorado </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Jerry West is a fan of Klay Thompson and likely will select him if he's still on the board. But if he's off the board, Burks is a real possibility here. The Warriors' backcourt is undersized with Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis together. Burks brings size and athletic ability to the table as a third guard or, if the Warriors end up trading Ellis, a potential lead guard down the road. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>12</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Utah </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Chris Singleton </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 230 Age: 21 School: Florida State </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: We've had Singleton here for weeks, and we're not moving him unless the Jazz draft a forward with the No. 3 pick. With Andrei Kirilenko heading into free agency, the Jazz are going to want a defensive stopper who can guard multiple positions. Tristan Thompson, Jimmer Fredette and Alec Burks are all possibilities here, too. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>13</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Phoenix </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Tristan Thompson </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 20 School: Texas </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Suns are in that awkward spot between pushing for the playoffs and rebuilding. Lon Babby says the team will be emphasizing defense, and Thompson could be a solid direction to go. Thompson is one of the best offensive rebounders in the draft and fits a major need for the Suns on their front line. I'm hearing two other defensive-minded players -- Kenneth Faried and Iman Shumpert -- are in the mix at No. 13 as well. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>14</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Houston </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Jonas Valanciunas </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: C Height: 7-0 Weight: 245 Age: 19 Country: Lithuania </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Could the Rockets really score Valanciunas this low in the draft? Maybe. If Valanciunas isn't able to come to the NBA, a number of teams will feel pressure to draft players who can help right away. There's a chance the Bobcats, Bucks or Warriors will take him. But it's just a chance. However, I doubt Valanciunas will slide any farther than this. The Rockets really need a center, and Valanciunas, in the long run, is worthy of a lottery pick. Nikola Vucevic also is a real possibility here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>15</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Indiana </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Jimmer Fredette </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 196 Age: 22 School: Brigham Young </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Pacers could go a number of ways here, but for the fourth straight week, I think Fredette will be their man. In the meantime, the odds are growing stronger that the Kings, Jazz or Suns will take him first. There also are teams such as the Knicks who are trying to move ahead of the Jazz at No. 12 to get him. So there's a good chance Fredette will be off the board when the Pacers draft, but if he's here, he'll be very hard to pass on. Tristan Thompson and Markieff Morris also are serious options here if both are still on the board. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>16</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Philadelphia </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Jordan Hamilton </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 229 Age: 20 School: Texas </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Sixers need size, but they also need shooting. With Andre Iguodala on the trading block, don't be surprised to see them grab Hamilton. His ability to shoot the ball from range, combined with solid rebounding ability, could make him a surprise pick for Philly. Nikola Vucevic, Donatas Motiejunas and Markieff Morris are also possibilities here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>17</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">New York </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Iman Shumpert </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-6 Weight: 221 Age: 20 College: Georgia Tech </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Knicks have been focusing on offense for much of the draft process, but the truth is they need some defenders. Count Shumpert as one of the best perimeter defenders in the draft. He can't shoot, but he's a great athlete who can get to the basket. Marshon Brooks and Nikola Vucevic are other possibilities here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>18</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Washington (via Atlanta) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Markieff Morris </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF/C Height: 6-9 Weight: 241 Age: 21 School: Kansas </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: In this mock, we have the Wizards going with a forward at No. 6. That sets them up to grab yet more rebounding help in the paint from Morris at No. 18. Morris' size, shot-blocking and ability to stretch the defense with his shooting should make him an attractive option here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>19</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Charlotte (via New Orleans) </td><td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Nikola Vucevic </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: C Height: 7-0 Weight: 260 Age: 20 School: USC </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Bobcats need size, and Vucevic is the biggest player in the draft. He might not be a superstar, but he has the chance to be a very solid NBA center in the mold of a player such as Marc Gasol. Kenneth Faried and Reggie Jackson are other possibilities here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>20</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Minnesota (via Memphis) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Marshon Brooks </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SG Height: 6-5 Weight: 195 Age: 22 School: Providence </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Wolves' biggest hole may be at 2-guard. Wesley Johnson played there some last season, but he's a more natural fit at the 3. Brooks is one of the two or three best scorers in the draft. He'd be a nice get here for the Wolves. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>21</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Portland </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Kenneth Faried </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 225 Age: 21 School: Morehead State </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Blazers fell in love with Faried last year before he withdrew from the draft. If they are fortunate enough to get a second chance at him this year, they'll grab him. His relentlessness on the boards is a nice complement to LaMarcus Aldridge's more offensive-minded style. Markieff Morris, Tobias Harris, Iman Shumpert and Reggie Jackson are other players to watch. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>22</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Denver </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Tobias Harris </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 223 Age: 18 School: Tennessee </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Harris may be one of the more underrated players in the draft. He can play both the 3 and 4, and he has a very high basketball IQ and an NBA body. Harris doesn't do any one thing at an elite level, but he is one of the most well-rounded players in the draft. Iman Shumpert, Chandler Parsons and Tyler Honeycutt are other possibilities here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>23</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Houston (via Orlando) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Donatas Motiejunas </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 7-0 Weight: 220 Age: 19 Country: Lithuania </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Would the Rockets really take two Lithuanians? Sure they would. Both players are vastly underrated where the Rockets are getting them, and the Rockets have always been the sort of team that takes advantage of a bargain when it sees one. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>24</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Oklahoma City </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Kyle Singler </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 23 College: Duke </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: I don't have Singler rated as a Top 30 prospect. But I might be mistaken. A source said the Thunder are very high on Singler and believe he could be an Andres Nocioni-type player in the NBA. He is tough, has a good motor and will be able to knock down open shots. If he plays that role in the NBA, he's well worth the 24th pick. Nikola Mirotic is another possibility here. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>25</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Boston </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Jeremy Tyler </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: C Height: 6-11 Weight: 263 Age: 19 Team: Tokyo Apache </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Celtics are going to start rebuilding soon and they need to hit a home run again the same way they did with Rajon Rondo. Tyler could be that guy. If he had played in college, he might have had a chance to be a top-10 pick with his talent. He's long, athletic and raw, but if he succeeds, he could be a major pickup for the Celtics. JaJuan Johnson, Tyler Honeycutt, Justin Harper and Jon Leuer are also possibilities. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>26</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Dallas </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Nikola Mirotic </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-10 Weight: 226 Age: 21 Country: Serbia </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Mavs likely will stay primarily a veteran team. So they'll work to add value wherever they can. Mirotic is a talented player who would go 10 spots higher if he wasn't stuck in Europe the next two or three years with a difficult contract to get out of. But the Mavs can afford to be patient with a talent like this, and hope that in a few years, he'll be ready to step in and play right away. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>27</center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">New Jersey (via L.A. Lakers) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Reggie Jackson </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 208 Age: 21 School: Boston College </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Jackson hasn't done any workouts, has a knee injury and isn't sharing his medical records. Why would the Nets take a player like that? Well, they, along with a lot of NBA teams, believe another team has shut down Jackson's workouts with a promise to draft him. That shouldn't stop the Nets from grabbing Jackson anyway. Yes, they have Deron Williams. But he's not a sure thing to stay in New Jersey after next season. Even if he does, Jackson would be a terrific backup and a player who could play off the ball in certain situations. Had he not had a knee injury just as the draft prep began, he could have gone much higher. Norris Cole, Justin Harper, Josh Selby and Chandler Parsons also are possibilities. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>28 </center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Chicago (via Miami) </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Justin Harper </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 21 School: Richmond </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: Harper was one of the best stretch 4s in college basketball last season. He also has size and is a pretty good athlete. The Bulls need perimeter shooting and Harper should be able to give them some. Charles Jenkins, Tyler Honeycutt and Jeremy Tyler are also possibilities. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>29 </center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">San Antonio </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Davis Bertans </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: SF Height: 6-10 Weight: 210 Age: 18 Country: Latvia </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Spurs have done a good job over the years of finding young international players and stashing them overseas for a few years until they're ready. Bertans showed he can be a big-time shooter at the Nike Hoop Summit and adidas Eurocamp. At 18, he's worth taking a flier on and seeing what he can accomplish after another year or two in Europe. <table> <thead> <tr><th width="15%">PICK</th> <th width="27%">TEAM</th> <th width="27%">PLAYER</th> <th width="27%">VITALS</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr class="last"> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center"><center>30 </center></td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Chicago </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;" align="center">Tyler Honeycutt </td> <td style="vertical-align: middle;"> Position: G/F Height: 6-8 Weight: 188 Age: 20 School: UCLA </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Analysis: The Bulls need scorers in their backcourt and ultimately need to find a backup for Derrick Rose at point guard. Honeycutt wasn't a dominating scorer in college, but his versatility should make him a nice fit in Chicago. 31. Miami Heat (via Minnesota) JaJuan Johnson | F | Georgia Tech The Heat are hoping that Reggie Jackson falls this far. But if a team snatches him up, Johnson would be a nice fit. He is long, shoots the ball well and has four years of experience. <hr> 32. Cleveland Cavaliers Chandler Parsons | SF | Florida If the Cavs get a point guard and a big man early in the draft, don't be surprised to see them reach a bit for Parsons here. He has great size, is very skilled and has been one of the best workout players in the draft. <hr> 33. Detroit Pistons (via Toronto) Jimmy Butler | SF | Marquette Once upon a time the Pistons were all about toughness, defense and heart. Butler epitomizes that approach with his game and should be a great fit with the Pistons as a player who can play multiple positions off the bench. <hr> 34. Washington Wizards Travis Leslie | SG | Georgia In this mock draft, the Wizards get two bigs in the first round. With this pick they grab, perhaps, the most athletic 2-guard in the draft. If he was a better shooter, he would be a lottery pick. <hr> 35. Sacramento Kings Norris Cole | PG | Cleveland State We have the Kings taking a point guard at No. 7 (Kemba Walker). Would they take another one at No. 35? I'm hearing the team is high on Cole and would roll the dice on both players if they were available. <hr> 36. New Jersey Nets Bojan Bogdanovic | SF | Serbia Bogdanovic was the second-leading scorer in the Euroleague this year. If he could come to the U.S. this year or next, he'd likely be a first-round pick. In the second round, he's a steal. <hr> 37. Los Angeles Clippers (via Detroit) Josh Selby | PG | Kansas The Clippers have always been a team willing to take chances on young college players that didn't always live up to expectations. If Selby falls this far in the draft, he's a steal here. There's nothing to lose and terrific upside. <hr> 38. Houston Rockets (via Los Angeles Clippers) Darius Morris | PG | Michigan The Rockets would like to add some size in the backcourt and have been fans of Morris for a while. At No. 38, he's worth the risk. He has a lot of Andre Miller to his game. <hr> 39. Charlotte Bobcats Charles Jenkins | PG | Hofstra Jenkins was one of the best scorers in college basketball. Add him to the mix with Marcus Morris and Jordan Hamilton and the Bobcats would seriously increase their scoring punch. Jenkins' versatility should allow him to play both the 1 and the 2. <hr> 40. Milwaukee Bucks Jon Leuer | PF | Wisconsin The Bucks could continue to use shooters, and Leuer is one of the two or three best shooting bigs in the draft. <hr> 41. Los Angeles Lakers (from Golden State via New Jersey) Nolan Smith | SG | Duke The Lakers need to replace Derek Fisher at some point and Smith would be a great candidate. They are both combo guards who have toughness and can shoot the ball. Smith would be a great fit in L.A. <hr> 42. Indiana Pacers Malcolm Lee | PG | UCLA Would the Pacers draft yet another point guard? I think so because Lee can play both backcourt positions and gives them a real defensive presence. Jimmer can let if fly on offense, but Lee can be a lockdown defender on the other end. <hr> 43. Chicago Bulls (via Utah) E'Twaun Moore | SG | Purdue The Bulls need both toughness and shooting in the backcourt, and Moore could deliver. He can play both backcourt positions and this season showed that when he gets hot, he can be a lights-out shooter. <hr> 44. Golden State Warriors (From Phoenix via Chicago) Trey Thompkins | PF | Georgia The Warriors could always use some low-post scoring and Thompkins actually has a lot of talent scoring in the low block. He's got to get in better shape, but at this point in the draft, he's worth the risk. <hr> 45. New Orleans (via Philadelphia) Greg Smith | C | Fresno State Smith is raw. But he has an NBA body, good athleticism and huge hands. He's a project, but a very solid one. <hr> 46. Los Angeles Lakers (From New York) Malcolm Thomas | PF | San Diego State Thomas is an elite athlete who can run the floor, rebound and block shots. He's still raw offensively, but he has lots of upside for the 46th pick. <hr> 47. Los Angeles Clippers (From Houston) Giorgi Shermadini | C | Georgia Shermadini is a talented big man who can really score. He may not come over for a few years, but down the road he could be a very good pickup for the Clippers. <hr> 48. Atlanta Hawks Jordan Williams | C | Maryland The Hawks need more size and toughness on their front line. Williams was one of the best rebounders in college basketball last season. <hr> 49. Memphis Grizzlies Cory Joseph | PG | Texas Mike Conley has cemented himself as the Grizzlies' point guard of the future, but Joseph could be an interesting backup down the road. He should've stayed in school, but there's raw talent there. <hr> 50. Philadelphia 76ers (From New Orleans) Keith Benson | C | Oakland The Sixers continue to need bigs and Benson is one of the biggest players in the draft. He's skilled and a very good athlete for his size, he just needs to get stronger and improve his motor. <hr> 51. Portland Trail Blazers Rick Jackson | PF | Syracuse Jackson is a tough player with a good motor who can rebound the basketball. The Blazers need more size up front and some extra toughness can't hurt either. <hr> 52. Detroit Pistons Shelvin Mack | PG | Butler Mack reminds me a lot of a poor man's Joe Dumars. A tough, all-around player who really defies a particular position. He should be able to find a spot in the Pistons' backcourt. <hr> 53. Orlando Magic Scotty Hopson | SG | Tennessee Hopson is not only one of the best athletes in the draft, but he also can shoot the ball. He was inconsistent at Tennessee, but the talent is still there. <hr> 54. Cleveland Cavaliers (From Oklahoma City via Miami) Jereme Richmond | SF | Illinois Richmond is an athlete and little else right now. But as a long-term project, he still has major upside. <hr> 55. Boston Celtics Jamine Peterson | SF | NBDL Peterson is one of the best scorers in the draft. He's a great athlete as well. He may have some question marks about his background, but the Celtics have never shied away from players like him. <hr> 56. Los Angeles Lakers DeAndre Liggins | SG | Kentucky It's doubtful the Lakers keep all of these second-round picks. If they do, Liggins is one of the best defenders in the draft. With Ron Artest aging, Liggins could be a solid pick here. <hr> 57. Dallas Mavericks Mindaugas Kuzminskas | SF | Lithuania He's a classic Lithuanian small forward -- he can shoot it, he can handle the ball and he has a great basketball IQ. He's a player you stash overseas and hope develops. <hr> 58. Los Angeles Lakers (From Miami) Julyan Stone | SG | UTEP The Lakers like big point guards and they like defenders, and Stone fits the bill. Just don't ask him to score. <hr> 59. San Antonio Spurs Lavoy Allen | PF | Temple He's a big man with a soft touch and he's a good rebounder. At this point in the draft we're reaching, but there's some talent there. <hr> 60. Sacramento Kings (From Chicago via Milwaukee)Andrew Goudelock | SG | College of Charleston The Kings like shooters and Goudelock is one of the best in the draft.
Originally Published: June 21, 2011 Chad Ford's Mock Draft, Version 6.0 EmailPrintComments 2 By Chad Ford ESPN.com Archive With the NBA draft two days away, it's time to take our first full look at how both rounds will play out Thursday. Teams continue to narrow down their lists, but with tons of trade talk and last-minute workouts taking place, there still are plenty of things up in the air. Here's our best stab, after talking to numerous NBA team sources, at all 60 picks. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Cleveland (via L.A. Clippers) Kyrie Irving Position: PG Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 191 pounds Age: 19 School: Duke Analysis: Two days before the draft, the Cavs are still claiming they haven't made up their mind. ESPN's Ric Bucher reported the Cavs had settled on Irving on Monday, but while the report was running on the ticker, owner Dan Gilbert was meeting with Derrick Williams in Cleveland. While sources continue to point toward Irving's being the No. 1 pick, Williams' camp is holding out hope that it has a chance. Could the Cavs still have concerns about Irving's toe? Or are they worried that at No. 4 they can't get a solid big man? PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Minnesota Derrick Williams Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 249 Age: 20 School: Arizona Analysis: Still hearing the Wolves are hoping to get a great offer for the No. 2 pick. Hearing the best one they have right now is from Phoenix (Marcin Gortat and the No. 13 pick). If they can't find a trade they like, they'll swallow hard, take Williams and work out the rest this summer via trades. If they get Williams, Michael Beasley could be gone by the time the season starts. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Utah (via New Jersey) Brandon Knight Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 177 Age: 19 School: Kentucky Analysis: The Jazz have had virtually every prospect in the draft come in for a workout. It doesn't sound like they are in love with anyone at No. 3. Knight and Kemba Walker are both possibilities if the Jazz go with a guard. Big men Enes Kanter and Jan Vesely also are getting a look here. I'm hearing there's a slight preference for Knight right now, but truthfully it sounds like all four players are still in the mix at No. 3. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Cleveland Enes Kanter Position: C Height: 6-11 Weight: 260 Age: 19 Country: Turkey Analysis: We had Jonas Valanciunas in this position last week. But on Monday, we reported Valanciunas' buyout with his team in Lithuania would prohibit him from coming to the NBA next season. The Cavs love Valanciunas, but do they love him enough to draft him even if he won't be coming to the NBA next season? I doubt it at No. 4. The Cavs have been exploring a number of trade possibilities to move down a few spots in the draft. If they stay here, I think Kanter is their guy. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Toronto Jan Vesely Position: PF Height: 6-11 Weight: 240 Age: 21 Country: Czech Republic Analysis: Bryan Colangelo saw both Vesely and Bismack Biyombo this weekend in New York. Biyombo is a much bigger leap of faith at No. 5 than Vesely is. Kemba Walker and Kawhi Leonard are in the mix as well. But Vesley has been the favorite for a while, and I think he still is. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Washington Kawhi Leonard Position: SF Height: 6-7 Weight: 228 Age: 19 School: San Diego State Analysis: The Wizards need rebounding and would love it if Enes Kanter was still on the board. They also have been huge fans of Vesely and would jump at the chance to take him here. But if they're both off the board, this pick comes down to Leonard, Tristan Thompson and Klay Thompson. It might be a tough call for the Wizards, but the smart money is on Leonard. The Wizards have been all over him all year. He's tough, he's versatile and if he ever learns to really shoot the basketball ... watch out. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Sacramento Kemba Walker Position: PG Height: 6-1 Weight: 184 Age: 21 School: UConn Analysis: This becomes a tough call if Kawhi Leonard is off the board. The Kings need help at both small forward and the point. The only other small forward to really consider here is Chris Singleton. The Kings do like him, but he might be a reach at No. 7. Of the point guards left on the board, the Kings can choose between Walker and Jimmer Fredette. Walker might be the safer pick. He's a leader, he can play right now, and he brings toughness and character. But I'm not sure he's the best fit. Fredette, as we've been writing for the past three weeks, is the dark horse here. The Maloof brothers love him, he's probably a better fit in the Kings' backcourt than Walker and the fans in Sacramento would love him. Also don't count out Alec Burks. Sources say he had a terrific workout in Sacramento, and the Kings think he could be a point guard at the next level. He's a long shot but worth mentioning here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Detroit Bismack Biyombo Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 243 Age: 18 Country: Congo Analysis: We've had the Pistons taking Valanciunas the past few weeks, but with Valanciunas now planning on returning to Europe for another year, I don't think the Pistons will take the chance. With Kemba Walker also off the board, the Pistons are down to two prospects -- Biyombo and Tristan Thompson. Thompson has upside, but from what I can gather, the team is still very high on Biyombo. The Pistons know how to develop a defensive stopper like this. This pick might come down to what happens at Tuesday's workout between Thompson and Biyombo. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Charlotte Marcus Morris Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 230 Age: 21 School: Kansas Analysis: The Bobcats have a number of needs, but sources say they are prioritizing taking a veteran college player who can contribute right away. It sounds like the team is down to Morris, Chris Singleton, Klay Thompson and Alec Burks here. Morris might be the least sexy player of the group, but he also might be the safest. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Milwaukee Klay Thompson Position: PG Height: 6-7 Weight: 206 Age: 21 School: Washington St. Analysis: I think this pick likely comes down to Thompson and Alec Burks. They play the same position, but have different strengths. Thompson is a shooter, Burks is a slasher. With the Bucks telling me pretty strongly that they're holding on to Brandon Jennings as their point guard, and with the team making a strong drive to get back in the playoffs, I think Thompson is a better fit. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Golden State Alec Burks Position: SG Height: 6-6 Weight: 193 Age: 19 School: Colorado Analysis: Jerry West is a fan of Klay Thompson and likely will select him if he's still on the board. But if he's off the board, Burks is a real possibility here. The Warriors' backcourt is undersized with Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis together. Burks brings size and athletic ability to the table as a third guard or, if the Warriors end up trading Ellis, a potential lead guard down the road. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Utah Chris Singleton Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 230 Age: 21 School: Florida State Analysis: We've had Singleton here for weeks, and we're not moving him unless the Jazz draft a forward with the No. 3 pick. With Andrei Kirilenko heading into free agency, the Jazz are going to want a defensive stopper who can guard multiple positions. Tristan Thompson, Jimmer Fredette and Alec Burks are all possibilities here, too. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Phoenix Tristan Thompson Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 20 School: Texas Analysis: The Suns are in that awkward spot between pushing for the playoffs and rebuilding. Lon Babby says the team will be emphasizing defense, and Thompson could be a solid direction to go. Thompson is one of the best offensive rebounders in the draft and fits a major need for the Suns on their front line. I'm hearing two other defensive-minded players -- Kenneth Faried and Iman Shumpert -- are in the mix at No. 13 as well. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Houston Jonas Valanciunas Position: C Height: 7-0 Weight: 245 Age: 19 Country: Lithuania Analysis: Could the Rockets really score Valanciunas this low in the draft? Maybe. If Valanciunas isn't able to come to the NBA, a number of teams will feel pressure to draft players who can help right away. There's a chance the Bobcats, Bucks or Warriors will take him. But it's just a chance. However, I doubt Valanciunas will slide any farther than this. The Rockets really need a center, and Valanciunas, in the long run, is worthy of a lottery pick. Nikola Vucevic also is a real possibility here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Indiana Jimmer Fredette Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 196 Age: 22 School: Brigham Young Analysis: The Pacers could go a number of ways here, but for the fourth straight week, I think Fredette will be their man. In the meantime, the odds are growing stronger that the Kings, Jazz or Suns will take him first. There also are teams such as the Knicks who are trying to move ahead of the Jazz at No. 12 to get him. So there's a good chance Fredette will be off the board when the Pacers draft, but if he's here, he'll be very hard to pass on. Tristan Thompson and Markieff Morris also are serious options here if both are still on the board. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Philadelphia Jordan Hamilton Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 229 Age: 20 School: Texas Analysis: The Sixers need size, but they also need shooting. With Andre Iguodala on the trading block, don't be surprised to see them grab Hamilton. His ability to shoot the ball from range, combined with solid rebounding ability, could make him a surprise pick for Philly. Nikola Vucevic, Donatas Motiejunas and Markieff Morris are also possibilities here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS New York Iman Shumpert Position: PG Height: 6-6 Weight: 221 Age: 20 College: Georgia Tech Analysis: The Knicks have been focusing on offense for much of the draft process, but the truth is they need some defenders. Count Shumpert as one of the best perimeter defenders in the draft. He can't shoot, but he's a great athlete who can get to the basket. Marshon Brooks and Nikola Vucevic are other possibilities here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Washington (via Atlanta) Markieff Morris Position: PF/C Height: 6-9 Weight: 241 Age: 21 School: Kansas Analysis: In this mock, we have the Wizards going with a forward at No. 6. That sets them up to grab yet more rebounding help in the paint from Morris at No. 18. Morris' size, shot-blocking and ability to stretch the defense with his shooting should make him an attractive option here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Charlotte (via New Orleans) Nikola Vucevic Position: C Height: 7-0 Weight: 260 Age: 20 School: USC Analysis: The Bobcats need size, and Vucevic is the biggest player in the draft. He might not be a superstar, but he has the chance to be a very solid NBA center in the mold of a player such as Marc Gasol. Kenneth Faried and Reggie Jackson are other possibilities here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Minnesota (via Memphis) Marshon Brooks Position: SG Height: 6-5 Weight: 195 Age: 22 School: Providence Analysis: The Wolves' biggest hole may be at 2-guard. Wesley Johnson played there some last season, but he's a more natural fit at the 3. Brooks is one of the two or three best scorers in the draft. He'd be a nice get here for the Wolves. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Portland Kenneth Faried Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 225 Age: 21 School: Morehead State Analysis: The Blazers fell in love with Faried last year before he withdrew from the draft. If they are fortunate enough to get a second chance at him this year, they'll grab him. His relentlessness on the boards is a nice complement to LaMarcus Aldridge's more offensive-minded style. Markieff Morris, Tobias Harris, Iman Shumpert and Reggie Jackson are other players to watch. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Denver Tobias Harris Position: PF Height: 6-8 Weight: 223 Age: 18 School: Tennessee Analysis: Harris may be one of the more underrated players in the draft. He can play both the 3 and 4, and he has a very high basketball IQ and an NBA body. Harris doesn't do any one thing at an elite level, but he is one of the most well-rounded players in the draft. Iman Shumpert, Chandler Parsons and Tyler Honeycutt are other possibilities here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Houston (via Orlando) Donatas Motiejunas Position: PF Height: 7-0 Weight: 220 Age: 19 Country: Lithuania Analysis: Would the Rockets really take two Lithuanians? Sure they would. Both players are vastly underrated where the Rockets are getting them, and the Rockets have always been the sort of team that takes advantage of a bargain when it sees one. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Oklahoma City Kyle Singler Position: SF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 23 College: Duke Analysis: I don't have Singler rated as a Top 30 prospect. But I might be mistaken. A source said the Thunder are very high on Singler and believe he could be an Andres Nocioni-type player in the NBA. He is tough, has a good motor and will be able to knock down open shots. If he plays that role in the NBA, he's well worth the 24th pick. Nikola Mirotic is another possibility here. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Boston Jeremy Tyler Position: C Height: 6-11 Weight: 263 Age: 19 Team: Tokyo Apache Analysis: The Celtics are going to start rebuilding soon and they need to hit a home run again the same way they did with Rajon Rondo. Tyler could be that guy. If he had played in college, he might have had a chance to be a top-10 pick with his talent. He's long, athletic and raw, but if he succeeds, he could be a major pickup for the Celtics. JaJuan Johnson, Tyler Honeycutt, Justin Harper and Jon Leuer are also possibilities. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Dallas Nikola Mirotic Position: SF Height: 6-10 Weight: 226 Age: 21 Country: Serbia Analysis: The Mavs likely will stay primarily a veteran team. So they'll work to add value wherever they can. Mirotic is a talented player who would go 10 spots higher if he wasn't stuck in Europe the next two or three years with a difficult contract to get out of. But the Mavs can afford to be patient with a talent like this, and hope that in a few years, he'll be ready to step in and play right away. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS New Jersey (via L.A. Lakers) Reggie Jackson Position: PG Height: 6-3 Weight: 208 Age: 21 School: Boston College Analysis: Jackson hasn't done any workouts, has a knee injury and isn't sharing his medical records. Why would the Nets take a player like that? Well, they, along with a lot of NBA teams, believe another team has shut down Jackson's workouts with a promise to draft him. That shouldn't stop the Nets from grabbing Jackson anyway. Yes, they have Deron Williams. But he's not a sure thing to stay in New Jersey after next season. Even if he does, Jackson would be a terrific backup and a player who could play off the ball in certain situations. Had he not had a knee injury just as the draft prep began, he could have gone much higher. Norris Cole, Justin Harper, Josh Selby and Chandler Parsons also are possibilities. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Chicago (via Miami) Justin Harper Position: PF Height: 6-9 Weight: 228 Age: 21 School: Richmond Analysis: Harper was one of the best stretch 4s in college basketball last season. He also has size and is a pretty good athlete. The Bulls need perimeter shooting and Harper should be able to give them some. Charles Jenkins, Tyler Honeycutt and Jeremy Tyler are also possibilities. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS San Antonio Davis Bertans Position: SF Height: 6-10 Weight: 210 Age: 18 Country: Latvia Analysis: The Spurs have done a good job over the years of finding young international players and stashing them overseas for a few years until they're ready. Bertans showed he can be a big-time shooter at the Nike Hoop Summit and adidas Eurocamp. At 18, he's worth taking a flier on and seeing what he can accomplish after another year or two in Europe. PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS Chicago Tyler Honeycutt Position: G/F Height: 6-8 Weight: 188 Age: 20 School: UCLA
I don't like Motiejunas, but I live with taking a chance on him at 23. There's not much else there to get excited about anyway. Valanciunas and Darius Morris would be great value picks at #14 and #38.
I would wet myself if this was our draft. I am not a big Motiejunas fan any time someone questions if you want to play basketball and you are a pro that is a bad sign but at 23 I think he is more than fair value. It is an interesting write up from the rockets view point. There is no... hey this player is also in the mix. I agree that looking at the players that go beneath them no one I want at the same slot. Maybe Lee instead of Morris in the second but that is spiting hairs really. All of the picks have NBA talents, Motiejunas as a shooter and passer from what I have read. Jonas as a big body, rebounder, finisher. Morris as a passer and executor of the offense. The other very interesting thing is we get to continue with our current players. The two Lithuanians can continue in Europe while we see if any of our youngins, Hill, Thebeet, Patterson, T-will, C-bud, C-Lee emerge. Morris is a nice backup plan I think might not get a lot of time... but we thought that about Ish the Dish Smith. Injuries killed us the last few years. This seems to be the step back required to take a few steps forward. Fierguard Bleed Red Rockets Red It still leaves a big hole at SF. Still issues with a Long Tall Dude in the center for next year. But planning to build a team for the long haul... I like it.
I doubt 1 year of playing overseas will scare off so many teams. I think the DX situation makes more sense. Him going 3.
So they would pick multiple players that would not see a Rockets uniform for at least a year or two? While I like the idea of getting good value where they are if there is not someone worth trading up for, they would still need to do something else (as in a trade for Josh Smith) for me to be excited about an upcoming season. It would be nice in a couple of years when those players do finally show up and you get that windfall.
I won't give Chad Ford's mock draft too much grief. I know it's all for the fun of us NBA uber-nerds anyway. ANYthing can happen, and in this case, he might just be right in his predictions. But both those guys being available at those spots? Hell, you have teams wanting to trade back or trade out of this draft. If they nabbed Valuncianas instead, well, there goes Chad Ford Mock Draft 6.0. I don't know how well the fan base will take drafting a player to stash overseas. Granted, we need to think long-term, but the short-term needs some major mending as well. If we wind up with Valuncianas + draft gem who can contribute right away, I'll be happy.
Drafting Valunncianas (even to stash over seas for a year) would be a major victory for Houston. Only the uneducated fan would have a problem with picking him.
We have a few of them. I would have to trust Morey to actually find a center elsewhere that can pick up the minutes while we would wait for our Euro (if the draft goes that way) to come over.
