I have seen a few videos of this kid and he looks awesome. Check him out: http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=1273 http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2007/06/11/the-rise-of-petteri-koponen/ I mean, come on, the guy plays for a team called the Honka Playboys. A long, pass first point guard with a competitive edge is exactly what the Rocks need.
Drafting Petteri Koponen would be a solid move if we are forced to trade V-Span in an Artest deal. For example, under a scenario like Battier, Head and #26 for David Lee (PF we need), Jerome James (bad contract) and #23, we could draft a young backup PG like Koponen who is tall enough to let James slide over to the SG position. Otherwise, we need a PF .... or we are pfffffft.
I agree. It's quite possible that Koponen might be picked by the Suns at 24. I would take him at 26 if Sean Williams hasn't made good progress with John Lucas provided both of them are available at the 26th spot. The Rockets should look to trade VSpan and take Koponen IMO. I feel that the Knicks won't take up anything that the Rockets have to offer and that it's quite likely that both Koponen and Sean Williams will be gone by our pick.
I've read the Suns are trying to trade up to get Fernandez. Anyhow, even if the Rockets draft Koponen I don't think it'll spell the end of VSpan. Koponen is 19 and reports are he needs a year or two before he's NBA ready. If VSpan doesn't workout next year or simply his contract will be over within that period Koponen would be good insurance. Also as Morey said they're looking at drafting at players for the future.
