Imagine…

Mr. John Lennon wrote a small little song about imagining a world without war, and imagining a world at peace. I’m not going to pretend that this post even approaches the brilliance of that song. But, as fans, during and after the draft, we do a lot of “imagining”. Like, ‘Imagine that the Raptors could make a huge difference in their future by getting into the draft…’ Or, ‘Imagine if we traded our backup point guard, and arguably, our better point guard for some guy that just scores.’ I, however, imagine a time where each Raptors fan could read this little post. Cause after the last week of discussions around the NBA, I’m not sure we even deserve a team this good.

It could very well be that our makeup as a society (that is Toronto) is so full of our inferiority complex, that we are unable to trust. We’re unable to trust Bryan Colangelo’s vision (board posts on realgm talk about trading Mr. Colangelo for Kevin Pritchard (Portland’s GM), and that this inactivity was Bryan’s first misstep) and we don’t trust that a player might genuinely like us and might not choose to go where the max money is (there are a lot of worries about Jose’s free agency status next year). Now granted, I know how you feel. At one time, we all felt like a guy who was lucky enough to get to date the the hottest girl in school. I am a fan who sat with you all when Vince made us love him, only to be betrayed and “sabotaged” and then dumped for some city and club that’s not nearly as great or interesting as we are. (Sorry to those in New Jersey, but Toronto might not be better than Chicago, LA, New York, or San Fran, but I think it is a nicer place to live than Jersey… And it works better for my analogy.) But you know, it’s time to move on. These players might actually really like us. You know, like JYD did. You remember him, right? So, you know what, the guys that have gotten us this far, this past year… Let’s have a little faith in them. ‘Cause if we keep acting like a heart-broken, always-rehashing-the-past, never-trusting-anyone kinda society… Well, when the right person does come along (Chris Bosh, Bargnani, Calderon and others), we’ll never really be able to appreciate them for all their talents.

One last thing. I imagined one thing yesterday, and that was Bryan Colangelo’s phone conversations. Just before the draft, RaptorsTV aired the “Behind the Draft” special from last year. I think it’s interesting for those who were watching, to note how he handled the TJ Ford trade. It’s particularly interesting to me to see that one of Bryan’s greatest assets is to understand when he’s in a position of power. It was obvious that the Bucks wanted Charlie V, and it surprised Mr. Colangelo further that they were more high on Mo Williams than TJ Ford. I’d imagine that this past draft day had a lot more interesting conversations; the kind where Mr. Colangelo would receive a call, and then he’d get to ask for something ridiculous in return. Let’s not beat around the bush. No one in the Raptors head office wants to get rid of Calderon. We’ve heard it for the past week, and unless you were asleep for the entire year, the value of Calderon, especially on this iteration of the Raptors, is extremely high. However, by the same token, and as I’ve written about before, the Raptors also understand they may have to part with a piece they love, to get a piece they adore. As a result, the Raptors can ask for the moon, because that’s all that they’re willing to accept to part with Calderon. If someone is willing to accept our terms, then I’m all for it.

Anyways, it should be an interesting weekend, with a lot of movement this off season. Start your engines, cause free agency begins Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!

Oh yeah, Happy Canada Day everyone.

Secrets and Lies (and Sun Yue)

Secrets and lies! Secrets and lies! It’s all secrets and lies!
- Homer Simpson

We’re in the final moments leading to the Christmas of NBA fans: Draft Night. Who will be waiting at the base of the ol’ tannenbaum, eager to doff their festive suits ‘n’ ties in favor of authentic team jerseys? 

The basketball world is watching the clickety count down. Me, I’m scouring the ‘net for clues as to where my favorite prospects might land, but I have to remind myself that the clues - even from newspapers that never deign to entertain rumors (i.e., The Globe and Mail) – could be reporting carefully crafted misdirection coming from NBA teams. Okay, let’s ditch the euphemisms: some of these general managers are lying.

For example, there’s Sun Yue, who had been absent from the Draft Express mock and at the very bottom of the NBADraft.net mock. Today, he’s reached his highest spot, going to the Utah Jazz at No. 55 or the Dallas Mavericks at No. 50. Why? Probably because of comments like these (italics mine):

Sun is the sort of player the Mavericks are hoping slips to the No. 34 pick in Thursday’s draft. But with the way he has blossomed since arriving in America, the Mavericks aren’t certain the 216-pounder will last past the first round.

“He’s definitely a pass-first guy and a pretty interesting story,” Donnie Nelson, the Mavericks president of basketball operations said. “He grew up in China and was signed by a pro team when he was 14. When he hit Orlando, he raised a lot of eyebrows. He was a small forward the first day. And by the third day, he was a point guard.”

And these:

“Going in, I’m not sure how many people had him as draft-eligible. But he played really well,” a Western Conference personnel man said. “I know he’s labeled as a point guard because he’s such a good passer, but he’s almost too big to be a point.

“He’s someone who can play a little 3, a little 2, a little 1. He’s a really, really good passer. In a quiet way, he was really, really competitive as well.”

(For those of you keeping score, that’s five “reallys”. Can “personnel man” try to sell it just a little harder?) 

This is a player who dedicated basketball observers thought would go undrafted. The Mavs would have you believe that he’s late-first-round material. To quote Moe Szyslak: Whaaa?!

It could be that Sun has shown something he hasn’t in the CBA and the ABA the past few years. It could be that the Orlando scrimmages and team workouts show he’s capable of contributing at a higher level. It could be that, at 6′9″, he has proven himself effective at his natural point guard position. Really.

Or, it could be outright lies designed to misdirect the competition. Really, really.

The only way to know for sure is when, or if, Sun is drafted. Don’t get me wrong: I’m still rooting for him, but I’m just not sure who to believe. 

Secrets and lies!

Hey! Whatever Happened To Nick Van Exel?

With the NBA getting its draft on in the Big Apple tonight, most basketball fans will tune in to see the glitz and glamour of David Stern’s version of the Price is Right, with young men, some fresh outta’ their freshman seasons, making their services available for millions.

 

Everyone knows pretty much that the top tier, lottery picks turn out to be pretty decent pros (in my mind, Kwame Brown never happened). But it’s the second round picks that’ll really surprise you.

 

Gilbert Arenas, Rashard Lewis, Manu Ginobili, the list goes on, are guys who were overlooked in the draft only to make teams pay for it later. One Nick Van Exel from Kenosha, Wisconsin was one of the leaders of that trend.

 

Coming out of Bob Huggins’ system with the Cincinnati Bearcats, Nick was eased into leadership status, not really starting until his senior year. But it was then that Van Exel excelled (I know, I’m bad), taking his team to the big dance and in the process, putting Cincy college ball on the map. He was an Iverson-sized point guard with Ohio sized confidence when it came to shooting the three ball, and he had the shattered Cincy records to show for it.

 

In the 1993 Draft, Big Daddy Stern called Nick’s name from the podium and he was off to Tinseltown. But things weren’t all golden in Los Angeles at the time, with the “Showtime” era having just concluded; the Lakers were in a “rebuilding” phase. (Back then; you’d NEVER think to hear “Lakers” and “rebuilding” in the same breath). Magic, and Worthy were gone. Pat Riley was replaced with Randy Pfund (a Pat Riley look-alike) until borrowing Milwaukee’s old coach, Dell Harris. L.A. was banking on Nick and second-year man Eddie Jones to carry the Lakers into the future, and they brought the team back to the playoffs in 1995. Nick also helped close down Boston Garden, nailing a three at the buzzer to give the Lakers a late season road win.

 

The Lakers were officially Nick and Eddie’s team, that is until a large present from Orlando was dropped in Jerry Buss’ lap, in the form of newly signed Shaquille O’Neal. Add that with another young punk (Kobe) that the Lakers gave up center Vlade Divac for and there was some smoke in the City of Angels.

 

Van Exel had a reputation of being a hot head as well. After beefing with Dell Harris, Kobe, Shaq, Chick Hearn, Magic (remember when he came back and faked Sprewell out of his shoes?) some refs and the guy in the front row, Nick was shipped to the Denver Nuggets for peanuts (Tony Battie and Tyronn Lue).

 

In the Mile High city, Nick was the lone star on a team that couldn’t buy a win. Nick slugged it out for four years in Denver until getting shipped to Mark Cuban’s Billionaire Boys Club in Dallas. With the Mavericks, Nick played an off-the-bench role that was crucial to the revival of the Mavs as a legitimate NBA team, with the Mavs going back to the playoffs for the first time since Magic, Kareem and Worthy.

 

Nick was a victim of Mark Cuban’s meddling, and was sent to Golden State for Antawn Jamison and cap room, and in Oakland, he floundered playing in only 39 games. The weak showing towards the end of his career made him constant trade bait, being sent to Portland, with disastrous results once again.

 

After being waived by the Blazers, Nick’s last crack at a ring came calling, with the San Antonio Spurs calling for his services. In an almost tragic twist of fate and irony, the Spurs made is to the conference semis before bowing out in game seven in San Antone to the Mavs, the very team Nick helped put back on the basketball map. He announced his career was over shortly thereafter.

 

One thing about Nick, despite his Donald Duck temper, was his clutch shooting ability. Like a true NBA vet, he always elevated his game during the playoffs. Today, you’d think of him as a flashier, more evil Tony Parker.

Of course, I gotta leave something for the people, so when you get some time at the office, hit the links!

 

 

Red Alert: Oden to be Number 1?

ESPN’s Ric “Breaking News” Bucher stated Wednesday evening that, “The Oden camp has been notified that Greg Oden will be the first pick on Thursday’s draft.” When asked by ESPN analyst Mike Tirico if it is this certain, Bucher responded, “That would be a cruel joke at this point if not true.”

Let’s think about this for a moment. Bucher said “The Oden camp has been notified by the Trailblazers.” Camp? I understand that Oden has a plethora of advisors waiting for advanced notice but at this point in the Draft anyone can say, “Hi Ric, I’m calling from the Oden camp and we’ve been notified by Portland that there drafting Greg first. Please tell the sports world”.

Not to discredit Bucher, who is an excellent gatherer of hoop info, but the ambiguity of his statement utilizing camp instead of someone specific like agent seems somewhat vague. Also, the statement Bucher made about a “cruel joke if Oden is not number one” seems less than a firm commitment on his sourcing.

Don’t cave in Mr. Pritchard! Follow your instincts and up close analysis. If it’s Oden we’re waiting for your confirmation although many close to you state your instincts say Durant. Oden is a prize yet the probability of your hand being forced is a possibility. Yesterday one Northern California sports columnist stated in writing on Wednesday June 27, 2007, “That Pritchard does not have the guts to draft Durant number one.” Ouch!

Interesting indeed since Oden’s “camp” has been feeling the footsteps of Durant coming like a thief in the night to claim the top spot so it’s coming down to a battle of pride for that number one stunner status.

Jockeying…. Jockeying. Technically there’s no wrong in Oden or Durant with a better verdict of the most impact player being glimpsed after reviewing each player’s initial season. At that point projections can and will be buried.

It’s your call to make Kevin Pritchard. Sometime after 7pm EST in New York City the easy way and the view of many is Greg Oden and that’s a solid move. Yet, from many your sources I hear your heart is with Durant.

Either way there will be a June Christmas in Portland yet the intense advanced swaying of your GM capacities has been apparently leaked.

From Venezuela to Colorado Springs

The Brazilian U17 boys didn’t do well on the U17 South American Championships at Guanara Portuguesa, Venezuela, last week. After one month of practice in Londrina and São Paulo, the squad coached by Saviani and assisted by Cadum, a former Nat’l Team forward, succumbed in the semis to the Argentineans.

So far so good. It was a one point game (63-64), and Matias Nocedal and his boys were dreaming about revenge since last November in Montevideo (U16, read the last column). Besides, Pablo Orlietti, the 6’9 forward/center, has developed his game and took some of the pressure of Nocedal’s back, generating some problems to the Brazilian big men.

The real problem was the bronze medal game. After crushing the Uruguayans in the qualifying round, the Brazilians played badly and lost a key game for the future of this generation (1990). A win would give Brazil the chance to play in “Copa America”, so it could later try to qualify for the U19 World Championships. Good for Uruguay!

Not enough time to shed tears as the kids boarded a plane from Venezuela to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado for an intense week of games against the top high school players in the United States. Five contests, five 30+ point losses, one lesson: our kids must eat a lot of black beans before they can play top level basketball.

I’m not into negative thinking though. The tourney put the Brazilians to task against 30 of the most promising NCAA future stars. Guards like Jrue Holiday, Korie Luscious, and Tyreke Evans, and forwards and centers like Greg Monroe, Delvon Roe, and Al-Fariq Arinu, true stars of the hoop world. Kids that envision success in the NCAA courts, and a probable NBA draft selection in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.

As you can realize the test was great, and the opportunity was unique. As stats show, some of the Brazilian kids, like Vitor Benite, a Rio Claro guard, André Silva, a Franca forward, and César Mapelli, a EC Pinheiros forward stand out were able to take full advantage of the situation by playing above expectations.

All three of them were in Montevideo last year, where Vitor and André took on leadership roles. Vitor shows a level of maturity hard to be found among kids his age (16, 17), and a very serious look on his face with dedication written all over it. André too. Soft spoken, relaxing gait, and Franca-experienced.

The ‘special case scenario’ through, is on César Mapelli. In 2006, he played a supporting role in the U16 South American Championships due to an injury during training sessions in Uberlândia, Minas. In Venezuela, last week, he also played minor roles when compared to his teammates André and Rodrigo Silva, colleagues in the paint.

However, in Colorado Springs, playing against tougher opponents hard to be found (impossible?) in South America, César was Saviani and Cadum’s ‘go to guy’ averaging 21.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 0.8 assists in 31 minutes per game. Impressive numbers that will at least get him some looks from NJCAA and NCAA scouts.

Congratulations, but let’s not get caught up on isolated facts. I invite you to take a deeper look into our team.

Brazil still struggles on its back court game, a key aspect of sound basketball. To be able to handle well possession under tough defense has always been one of the toughest tasks in the game, especially when facing USA squads. Bigger and stronger, American kids seem to have enough stamina to play 90 minute soccer matches with basketball intensity.

In Colorado Springs, Brazilian guards had an average of 2.9 turnovers and 4.9 efficiency points (Brazilian Basketball Federation uses the following formula to analyze stats: <points + rebounds+ assists + blocks + steals > – < missed field goals + turnovers >) while American guards averaged 2.8 turnovers, but 17.9 points in efficiency. And what an efficient group of guards they had!

They were much more active than our guards not only in scoring but in every key aspect of the game, capturing 45% of their team’s rebounds (against 34% of the Brazilians), dishing 76% of the assists (against 71% of the Brazilians who averaged 2.7 per game versus 4 by the Americans), denying 36% of all blocked shots (against 26% of the Brazilians), and stealing 65% of all stripped balls (against 38% of the Brazilians).

In summary American guards were all over the court. In order to strengthen its overall game, Brazil has to better its guard game by forcing its kids to be more active in the game as a whole and more calm, but objective, when handling possession under strenuous defensive systems. The fact that our big men are not as agile as kids like Delvon Roe, and Greg Monroe, is another key factor that should make our game more guard-focused (as far as efficiency, not scoring or rebounding).

Our kids must learn how to practice and play under pressure. These are important pre requisites for the development of great guards and that’s how Argentina and Spain strengthened their game and became international basketball powerhouses. Look at Delfino, Ginobili, Prigioni, Calderon, Navarro, and so many other classic examples.

The Brazilian ‘Efficient 5’

Vitor Benite, 6’1, guard (1990), 9.6 efficiency points (e.p.)

Rafael Alves, 6’7, forward (1991), 8.2 e.p.

André Silva, 6’7, forward (1990), 15.3 e.p.

César Mapelli, 6’7, forward (1990), 20.4 e.p.

Augusto Lima, 6’9, center (1991), 13 e.p.

The Tournament’s most efficient

Greg Monroe, 6’9, forward (class of 2008), USA White, 33.4 e.p.

Delvon Roe, 6’8, forward (class of 2008), USA Blue, 32.8 e.p.

Tyreke Evans, 6’4, guard (class of 2008), USA White, 26.6 e.p.

Jrue Holiday, 6’3, guard (class of 2008), USA Blue, 26.2 e.p.

Devin Ebanks, 6’8, forward (class of 2008), USA Red, 26 e.p.

Scotty Hopson, 6’5, guard/forward (class of 2008), USA Blue, 23 e.p.

Ed Davis, 6’6, forward, USA Red, 22.2 e.p.

Al-Farouq Aminu, 6’8, forward (class of 2008), USA Red, 21.8 e.p.

Lance Stephenson, 6’4, guard (class of 2009), USA Red, 20.6 e.p.

César Mapelli, 6’7, forward (1990), Brazil, 20.4 e.p.

Speculation, Smeckulation

I hate this pre-draft speculation.

Jose Calderon is getting traded? Really, who decided to float that out there? For a mere pick no less.

In a day and age where everyone can write about anything (and let’s face it, that’s including blogs like this fine site’s) how much speculation is enough? For a lot of fans, this is the most fun they can have. I must admit, that all this thinking about our team and basketball is pretty fun, but it’s also got little bearing on what’s actually going to happen in the future. In a Nothin’ but (Inter)Net article published today, Doug Smith warned that the rampant speculation we’ve been hearing should be taken with a grain of salt; that everyone that fancies themselves experts (*cough* Peter Vescey, Steve Smith *cough*) will be publishing whatever they can find. Honestly, in the Bryan Colangelo era, save Bargnani, Parker and Garbajosa, has anyone managed to predict the mind of the Raptors’ braintrust?

However, this of course, happens every year. The warnings about rampant speculation never really stop the fans, and that’s ok. It’s part of the fun. It’s why we have fantasy leagues, mock drafts, and draft parties. But the “official press” should have to do something more than what we do. You know, some actual analysis.

In any case, I hope everyone enjoys the draft, and the potential it brings. It’s just as important, though, to always take all predictions with a grain of salt. Remember that it was a year ago that the day after the draft, was when Bryan decided to make one of his biggest and unforeseen moves by acquiring TJ Ford. Just because the Raptors might be quiet doesn’t mean that something is rapidly developing behind the scenes. Here’s hoping your team fills you with a feeling of new-found hope.

Final HoopsAddict.com Mock Draft for 2007

The late great humanitarian Dr. Martin Luther King once stated, “It’s never too late to do the right thing.” Therefore the final HoopsAddict.com Mock Draft has reversed course from continually projecting Greg Oden as the top pick to the consensus NCAA National Player of the Year Kevin Durant as the best choice for overall Number one.

Durant is just too gifted a talent to bypass. Yes, Oden is that once in a lifetime center that is all too happy patrolling the painted area and a certified winner. Oden will be an All-Star post player for the Supersonics and help start a renaissance for success in “Coffee-Town.” Greg Oden is a player that you know will provide tenacity, presence, and skills to your franchise. Kevin Durant has all the above qualities and more. Durant with his abundance of abilities has a single-minded focus to be the best player on the rock known as Earth. Durant expresses his game with celestial magic and his promise is limitless, as yet he’s only scratched the surface. Wait till Durant realizes what he can really do.

The choice here comes from a personal decision as well. I have always favored the athletic, offensive oriented, well-conditioned, coach-able, high basketball IQ, dedicated, finesse oriented, versatile, and tall/lean players over excellent singular position talent.

Kevin “Braveheart” Durant embodies all the aforementioned traits yet Durant has one decisive commodity on why Portland General Manager Kevin Pritchard should/would select top shelf Durant first and that’s Durant’s steely mental approach. Coming into the NBA Oden sees himself as a impact role player, an anchor, someone not trying to be the man, and a team player willing to sacrifice for the overall team good.

Durant on the other hand though a team player fearlessly sees himself as the focus, the go to guy, the face of the franchise, and will do everything humanly possible to prepare himself as a long term NBA stalwart. Durant also has that third eye for greatness and the 6^th sense to cause all applicable forces to exercise his skills to the status of elite hyperspace and time. Durant when focused projects a hoop hologram that repels defenders like an invisible electric shield.

Additionally, The Mock will stay true to itself and maintain one round. I will chronicle the top 10 picks available after the first round of my Mock and 5 wild card players that will help NBA teams next season.Moving on, the HoopsAddict.com 2007 NBA Mock Draft which has been sampled more than a James Brown bass line in a Hip Hop song, has inspired a multitude of data bases for Mock Draft unity, has been discussed as a cover for a variety of lead stories at various conventional media and websites, and has generally changed the altitude of composing Mock Drafts has been an engaging experience. To each and every one of my readers I send you a resounding thank you! The HoopsAddict.com Mock has been a labor of love for me to write and the reciprocity I have tethered from pros and cons points of view alike has been most rewarding. I’d also like to shout out those who have found favor with my Mock including and not limited to the following various NBA players current and retired, fellow bloggers, The Hoops Addict team, NBA officials, scouts, player agents, Draft eligible players, current collegiate players, various collegiate/professional coach’s, NBA and NCAA television broadcasters, and my personal favorites the global basketball fan. Your feedback and interaction is greatly appreciated. Let’s keep the block hot as I drop the final Mock. My word is bond.

1. Portland Trailblazers: Kevin Durant 6-9 Texas: T-Blazers GM Kevin Pritchard is finally going to answer the Basketball God’s who have offered Pritchard the free will decision of Greg Oden or Kevin Durant? Judgment day is here for Pritchard who after winning the draft lottery has had to wait it out while the world ponders whom he will select to don Portland red and black. No more sleepless nights Mr. Pritchard you have done the right thing by drafting the other Kevin out of the University of Texas. Rise up Rose Garden attendees and be wowed by the basketball exploits of hoop divination coming your way via express delivery named Kevin Durant. (Previous Mock draft position Number 2.)
2. Seattle Supersonics: Greg Oden 7-0 Ohio State: Mr. Oden you have been Number 1 for the last several years of your life it seems almost ignoble to have the number 2 associated next to your name. Mr. Oden superlatives/criticism have been flashed your way like no other NBA Draft prospect in history. You have been ruled the next big thing by flashy splash pages via a multitude of websites, glossy magazines have made you a cover boy, you have had your right wrist analyzed and debated, stories have been written about a supposed bulging disc in your back, your facial features have received incessant analysis, and then you’re compared to Mr. Championship Bill Russell without playing an NBA minute. Wow!!! Big ups to you Mr. Oden for handling it so well! Yet realize nothing will be handed to you in the NBA and K-N-O-W your passion needs to be greater than just a anchor the lane player. Greatness is yours Greg so converse with fellow Seattle native Bill Russell on why he was wracking up NBA titles like a pallet collector. Their lies the answer for you Greg the karma connects you with Russell in the State of Washington so bring the hoop thunder as a Supersonic. (Previous Mock draft position Number 1.)
3. Atlanta Hawks: Al Horford 6-10 Florida: I have always bought into the premise that you judge a man/woman by their works. Utilizing that same statement Horford’s works in the game of basketball is positively vast. The wing player heavy Hawks with a roster teeming with finesse players need a double-double guarantee that Horford offers in regards to points and rebounds from the free throw line to point blank range near the rack stanchion. Besides being a stat-stuffer Horford can express his will in live game time areas where winners excel above the middling. Horford’s overall excellence as a power forward is above his draft peers coupled with the solid mental disposition that can be looked upon as granite by his teammates and coaches’ when antagonists’ erosion hits the sands of Phillips Arena. (Previous Mock draft positions Number 3, Number 4, and Number 6.)
4. Memphis Grizzlies: Mike Conley 6-1 Ohio State: First year Grizzlies head coach Marc Iavoroni has spent the past several years as a assistant coach with the Phoenix Suns and has had a front row seat in practice and games when Steve Nash was wracking up back to back MVP’s. In other words Coach Marc knows first hand the value of an outstanding floor leader. Iavoroni will merge his round-ball ideology with a Coach on the floor and that starts with Mike Conley. Conley and Iavoroni have plenty in common both need each other to lean on and both need to garner a team tempo. Conley is ready and will “Graceland” in Memphis named after an ancient Egyptian city with the power of the Staff of RA. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 3, Number 6, and Number 10.)
5. Boston Celtics: Brandan Wright 6-10 North Carolina: Doc and Danny that bitter NBA Draft ale you swigged down when the lottery picks were awarded to Portland and Seattle still allowed you to attain a top two pick. How is that you ask? Brandan Wright had he stayed in college ball would easily have been a number one or two pick in 2008. However Wright is ready for the taking now for Beantown. Doc and Danny Wright is the right move and meshes with your talented athletic roster. Paul Pierce should retire a Celtic and a front line of Pierce, Al Jefferson, and Brandan is explosive. Turn up the tempo Doc; make peace with Pierce Danny, slow down the three-point avalanche Rivers, and turn your young greyhounds loose! That’s the formula for getting the Celt’s in the playoffs as early as next year. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 3, Number 5, Number 6, and Number 7.)
6. Milwaukee Bucks: Corey Brewer 6-9 Florida: Corey “Big Game” Brewer is the best bet for the Bucks stops/picks here. Brewer is a rangy explosive go-getter with controlled tenacity backed up by a multitude of vintage small forward trademarks. Brewer comes into the league as one of the fastest end-to-end 3-men NBA wide and has beaten you to the spot lateral quickness that befuddles offensive opposites. Florida bred Brewer is headed for “The Brew City” and will use his rookie bread to gather some needed winter threads in the cold Midwest while being a first year star “brat” without the kraut. Heat it up “Big Game” we’ll check you out in the 2008 NBA Rookie-Sophomore game. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 8, Number 9, and Number 12.)
7. Minnesota Timberwolves: Spencer Hawes 7-0 Washington: Kevin McHale as a player formed a frontline that has been hailed as the NBA’s greatest when he balled with Larry Bird and Robert Parish. Those Celtics greats of the past won three championships together and went 40-1 at home an NBA record. Frontcourt play still wins huge in the NBA and KG needs Spencer Hawes in the 5-slot desperately. McHale who will make the Wolves selection envisions a player in Spencer he can help tutor with low post moves. To this day no low post player has had the seemingly endless indefensible maneuvers McHale actuated in his playing days. Hawes who is offensively gifted now and a above average defender if mentored in the McHale Navy wave of low post savvy will make the Wolves a worthy opponent in 2007-2008 and beyond. Nineteen-year-old Spencer is for hire T-Wolves. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 5, Number 9, Number 11 and Number 16.)
8. Charlotte Bobcats: Jeff Green 6-9 Georgetown: Wherever Michael Jordan is physically present MJ is guaranteed to be the most competitive person in that zip code. Jordan’s unrivaled passion for success is what he seeks to player gather in his role as an NBA administrator. Jeff Green is Jordan’s call here a player that reminds him of fellow Bulls sidekick Scottie Pippen. Jordan seeks winning, talented, and skilled players that despite their prominent basketball stature have a passion for doing the dirty work that Green enjoys like Pippen and his Airness did back in the day. Green is no sham his game will takeoff in the NBA and he will be a force at Charlotte’s training camp. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 7, Number 12, Number 14, and Number 16.)
9. Chicago Bulls: Joakim Noah 6-1 Florida: Joakim Noah will arrive on Draft Day partnered with his grandfather from Cameroon who was a former soccer player for the Africa nation’s National team. Grandpa will be proud of his grandson Joakim as he steps to the podium and grabs a Chicago Bulls hat as the number nine pick. Bulls GM John Paxson understands the nuances of team-building and when you have a two-time National Championship Player that is focused, well-skilled, and can play the game at a efficiently high level you need that in your Chi-Town mix. Let’s keep it real, Noah will fearlessly express himself and is the best passing big man in the Draft an attribute all time single game assist record holder Bulls coach Scotty Skiles (29 assists as an Orlando Magic) recognizes with a blind-fold. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 4, Number 5, Number 7, Number 8, and Number 10).
10. Sacramento Kings: Jason Smith 7-0 Colorado State: Reggie Theus is the Kings head coach and the former UNLV Runnin’ rebel and NBA lead guard is all about the up-tempo attack. Coach Theus theory is to have athletic frontcourt people with a variety of skills that maintain advantages for his squad when a play that is not built on preparation yet guile predominates. Coach Theus with his vast experience knows that a talent like Ron Artest is hard to find and will seek to keep Ron-Ron due to Coach Theus excellent player relations skills supported with honesty, fearless candor, and the fact Coach Reggie has been there and done that as a pro. So that jargon of unloading Artest is not as strong as it once was with Reggie on the Kings bench high chair. Enter Jason Smith. Kings owners the irrepressible Maloof brothers have signed on the rebuilding plan with Sac basketball chieftain Geoff Petrie and hire the Tom Chambers in waiting player Jason Smith. Smith is a gifted-competitive 7-foot quarter-miler that upgrades the athleticism of the Kings forward line instantly. Smith breaking in under Reggie Theus’ direction blends like a California smoothie. (Previous Mock Draft positions: Number 10 and Number 15).
11. Atlanta Hawks: Acie Law IV 6-4 Texas A&M: Tyronn Lue, Anthony Johnson, and Salim Stoudamire all ran some point guard for Mike Woodson a year ago. All three players took their best shot to hold down the on the floor leadership role and came up a little short of the intended point. Acie Law the second point guard drafted in 2007and potential tops 5 pick in any other lottery season is the man for Atlanta’s future. Law will be able to dictate the direction of Coach Woodson’s attack and offers his own offensive storehouse so required of an NBA team’s leading ball handler. Law’s four year training ground in the fast break oriented Big 12 conference will add seasoned poise to the Hawks guard rotation. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 7, Number 10, Number 11, and Number 14.)
12. Philadelphia 76ers: Yi Jianlian 7-0 China: Yi Jianlian is on his way to Philly. Yi may free fall to 12 due to the fact GM’s are punching thru the hype machine of Yi’s ability to be immediately effective in the NBA. Some say Yi will be exposed in the way of the NBA and will be a competent player at best. Some have offered that Yi will be back to China when his rookie contract expires. Yi who has been staging workouts that are not universally prescribed by NBA talent evaluators has been efficient with his LA home base routines. Others have described the league in which Yi performed was no better than NCAA Divison 2 basketball. Never the less the mystery that is Jianlian is a good move for Billy King since a seven footer who can shoot, run, and rebound is an uncommon commodity. No loss on the final results for King to gain a player projected as a top 5 pick in this draft position. King also has more room for error barring trades since he has 2 additional first round choices. NBA teams with only one first round selection need Yi to perform in a major contributory means ASAP! (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 3, Number 4, Number 5, Number 8, and Number 12.)
13. New Orleans Hornets: Nick Young 6-6 USC: With the selection of Young Coach Byron Scott has a dynamic backcourt with Chris Paul manning the quarterback slot and Nick as Paul’s flanker. Young’s pre-draft rap sheet stated he was more scorer than shooter yet Young has canceled some of that ideology by swaying the cord affixed to the rim with incredulous rapid-fire accuracy during workouts. The Hornets had huge offensive woes last season and are somewhat undersized in the backcourt though talented. Young’s 6-6 size allows Scott to play Nick at the three if he goes small and quick with either of the these three players Jennaro Pargo, Bobby Jackson, and Paul creating havoc on the perimeter. Young who possess steady transition talents would allow the Hornets something else they struggled with last year quick hoops. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 13, Number 15, Number 22, Number 23, and Number 25.)
14. Los Angeles Clippers: Julian Wright 6-9 Kansas: Julian Wright and Elton Brand is an excellent frontline tag team in the City of Angels. Wright has a nice pick and pop face-up game, is an excellent finisher off the fast break, makes solid read and recognition maneuvers offensively and defensively, and is an excellent passer with a commitment for executing his role in the half court offensive sets. Wright is a solid player that has a knack for the dramatic and plays with plenty of confidence. Julian played for a quasi-NBA team at Kansas and is accustomed to playing with talented teammates while still keeping his game at the forefront despite grooving with a myriad of skilled teammates. Wright by increasing the range on his jumper will be able to score at his beckoning in future seasons. Wright also has the admirable trait of hitting the glass on both sides of half-court. Good choice Mr. Baylor. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 4, Number 7, Number 13, and Number 14.)
15. Detroit Pistons: Rodney Stuckey 6-4 Eastern Washington: Stuckey played the Big Sky conference like a electric guitar on his way to being selected by Motown’s proud NBA franchise. Stuckey who is eager to start his professional playing days enters Detroit with the East’s best guard combination. Pistons leader Joe Dumars is confident Chauncey will re-sign and Stuckey is necessary to upgrade the Pistons guard rotation that has seen the forever in motion Hamilton and heavily handling the rock Billups wear out late in the playoffs. Stuckey is a very nice player who can score, distribute, and defend. Joe D also likes tough players and the temptation to play Stuckey with four tops is supreme in the minds of Pistons fans eager to dance in the streets like the days when championships did not seem like ain’t no mountain high enough. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 15, Number 17, Number 18, and Number 19.)
16. Washington Wizards: Al Thornton 6-8 Florida State: Al Thornton the ACC’s leading scorer is ready and available. Thornton has had mixed reviews in workouts yet he is not window dressing due to the fact Thornton’s plays his best basketball with live fire not simulated. You have those who play basketball and those who can really play basketball and Thornton is of the latter of the aforementioned. Thornton who plays the game with a fervent intensity and has one of this year’s draft best game faces. Al is all too willing to let doubters wonder what makes his game tick. Thornton who stylizes his game with “a tricks is for kids”’ mindset has an all business ability to score and compete offsets any weaker willed adversaries. Thornton in DC allows Caron Butler to play the two guard and give Eddie Jordan the high potency offense he prefers. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 13, Number 16, and Number 17.)
17. New Jersey Nets: Josh McRoberts 6-11 Duke: Vince Carter will be back performing his aerial acrobats and Jason Kidd will be triple-doubling his way thru the Meadowlands in the home whites. Richard Jefferson is likely to be applying his best supporting actor wing skills opposite Vince and J-Kidd therefore the Nets need someone besides Mikki Moore and Jason Collins to play upfront. Nets center Nenad Kristic will be back in action next season after missing the bulk of season 2006-2007 with a knee injury. Enter McRoberts who may not have the trapeze skills of RJ and Vince yet his high hops near the rack are in synchronicity with Kidd’s no look alley oops. Mikki Moore had a career season playing opposite Kidd so look for McRoberts to fit nicely when playing with dime artist Kidd. McRoberts who many felt was misused by Duke Coach K last year will be a solid pro fortified by playing amongst excellent basketball aptness. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 10, Number 18, Number 21, Number 24, Number 28.)
18. Golden State Warriors Javaris Crittenton : Warrior’s Executive Chris Mullin has the 36^th and 46^th pick in the 2^nd round and can utilize that area for either a back-up guard or post presence G-State seeks to balance there roster. Does Mullin draft Sean Williams or give faith that his last year’s number one draft pick 7 footer Patrick O’Bryant can provide post defense and shot blocking behind Latvian lefty Andris Biedrins next season. The bet here is on O’Bryant giving first shot to succeed off the frontline pine necessitating that Javaris Crittenton is off the board at 18. Baron Davis is the main man for Nelly and has a balky knee. Crittenton with his point guard talents and propensity to keep the tempo turbulent is equally adept at rotating ball side for catch and shoot proficiencies and is Golden State’s selection here. Mullin can utilize his second round draft picks for front court players like Kyle Visser and Jermareo Davidson who one or the other if not both could be available at 36. Drafting a talented leading ball maven like Javaris enhances Nelson’s depth and offers needed relief after Baron takes a break. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 15, Number 18, and Number 19.)
19. Los Angeles Lakers: Gabe Pruitt 6-4 USC: Kevin Garnett may be a Laker and this pick could be going the way of trade shaking up the entire draft board. If Mitch Kupchak seeks to stay with the pick someone besides Sasha, Jordan, and Smush needs to trigger the offense. Phil Jackson abandoned his tripod half court set and basically turned judge-like reviewing game to game the American Idol known as Kobe Bryant who soloed beautiful acapella virtuoso acts that lead Bryant to another NBA scoring title. Yet the “Black Mamba’ spewed venom this summer wondering how Lakers brass after dialing in a trade for a accomplished All-Stars such as Jason Kidd or Jermaine O’Neal had each deal fall through the San Andreas fault due to other teams merely mentioning Andrew Bynum. Kobe who Southern California has a tremendous love affair with across all racial and age genre’s flexed his might and told the Buss family, “Do something!” Dr. Buss owner of the league’s most lucrative franchise is not about to move his headliner despite Kobe’s demands. Rest assured Laker number 24 Gabe Pruitt is zealously looking forward to bringing his Showtime gamesmanship for a brighter Lakers future and Pruitt’s crystalline hoop expertness increases Phil’s offensive appraised value next to the Laker gem. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 21 and Number 24.)
20. Miami Heat: Thaddeus Young Georgia Tech 6-8: Coach Riles may find someone who can run the offense opposite Wade via trade or second round yet he won’t address his small forward woes by passing on Young. Young is what Miami needs a perimeter player that can athletically compete with the likes of the Chicago Bulls which swept at the time the defending champions who looked old and rigid next to Chicago’s versatile, quick, and skilled wing forwards. Young in Miami upgrades the skills considerably in the frontcourt and Thaddeus who can consistently leak out for the quick hoops in transition gives Riles a finisher in the open floor opposite Flash. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 20, Number 21, and Number 28.)
21. Philadelphia 76ers: Rudy Fernandez Spain 6-6: Rudy Fernandez has a potpourri of talents where his prime deficiency remains… jack-of-all-trades master of none. Balanced basketball knowledge applied by flair at real time is what Rudy’s hoop approach fuses on. In other verbiage Fernandez is as versatile a player as there is on the draft board that plays his best ball in the biggest games. Fernandez who Coach Cheeks will grow fond of with his game readiness will gain a Mr. Intangible baler reputation very similar to the Spurs Manu Ginobili with his polished unorthodox consistency. (Number 8, Number 11, Number 13, Number 18, Number 20, and Number 24.)
22. Charlotte Bobcats: Morris Almond 6-6 Rice: After 21 picks the ‘Cats can draft a All-American 4 year collegian, that shoots over 45% from three point land, averages over 20 points a game for his career, is durable, can handle being the man, and is quite frankly the best collegiate shooting guard in the draft. Almond is the Bobcats opening game starter and with Michael Jordan’s old adversary the New York Knicks and Isiah Thomas up next on the first round big board with pick 23 MJ as is his want makes the move to secure Morris before NY. Almond won’t disappoint and will be educating the entire Bobcat’s viewing audience on the efficacies of perfect shooting form. Almond is way better an athlete he’s been given credit due to his effortless grace when roaming the hardwood. Coach Vincent gains a needed skill dimension and locker room guy with the addition of Almond. Morris Almond long range shooting will garner the Rice rookie an invite to next year’s All-Star game three-point shoot-out. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 13, Number 15, Number 17, Number 22, and Number 27.)
23. New York Knicks: Wilson Chandler 6-8 DePaul: Chandler a swing forward and first rate hoopster joins the Knicks as someone who can play 20 to 25 minutes of credible team ball as a rookie for a offensively focused ball club. Chandler who played in a very structured system, as a Blue Demon is a gifted player more suited for the NBA playing style than college ball. Chandler is a sound defender has quick hops and makes the impromptu play consistently due to timely intuition. Chandler will add a vigorous rangy presence to a Knick forward trio that is sound yet plays so similarly speaking of Channing Frye, David Lee, and Renaldo Balkman. Isiah Thomas is certain Chandler fits in with his system for 2007-2008 and is a solid pick for the Knickerbockers. (Previous Mock Draft position: none.)
24. Phoenix Suns: Tiago Splitter 7-0 Brazil: The Suns will nab Splitter with the quickness at the 24^th slot. Splitter projected to be a late lottery pick to a middle first rounder is a center with bronzed hoop capabilities that remind one of a young Arvydas Sabonis. Splitter has an escape clause in his contract after the 2008 season and Phoenix can afford to allow Tiago to marinate/wrap-up his commitment in Europe for a season before looking at residency in Arizona. Splitter’s sound overall game and defensive posture would consolidate the in the paint woes for new hire President Steve Kerr’s 2^nd unit. Splitter would be offset Amare Stoudemire subtly. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 9, Number 11, Number 12, Number 16, and Number 27.)
25. Utah Jazz: Marco Bellinelli 6-6 Italy: Marco arrives in Salt Lake to rain Spalding’s thru the orange radius affixed to fiberglass. Bellinelli string music is a welcome melody for Jazz fans. Marco the marksman noted for his pinpoint hand eye coordination from out of the general shooting vicinity is more than a bull’s-eye follow thru darter from distance. Bellinelli is an above average defender and has displayed deceptive quicks in European Championship ball. Bellinelli can distribute from the one position and has in traffic handles expert at weaving thru double teams .The 2-guard scenario is Bellinelli for the taking in Utah and Marco saddling up with last year’s Jazz first round pick Ronnie Brewer would provide a nice 2 guard duet orchestrating harmonious rhythms for conductor Jerry Sloan’s fast rising Jazzmen. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 19, Number 20, Number 23, and Number 26.)
26. Houston Rockets: Jared Dudley 6-8 Boston College: Huge success was predicted for the BC Eagles last season since BC had a successful run in the 2005-2006 NCAA’s and returned a solid frontline lead by Dudley and Sean Williams. Williams did not finish the 2006-2007 season leaving the burden of leadership and team prominence on the broad shoulders of Jared. Dudley did not disappoint and was the ACC’s player of the year. Dudley in Rockets gear represents a player with strong rations in every aspect of a NBA forward’s responsibility. Dudley can also play that point forward position and hustle back to defend a power forward on the low block. Dudley who manned up and represented himself exceptionally swell at the pre-draft camp is one of those roster players that provide coach’s comfort due to the consistency of his competitiveness. Dudley does right and does not take nights off. JD as a Rocket augments Battier and T-Mac. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 25, Number 26, and Number 29.)
27. Detroit Pistons: Glen Davis 6-8 LSU: No need to dodge this reality- The “Big Baby” can succeed in the Association. Davis has shown Spartan discipline in trimming his girth and is as good a scorer and rebounder available in the draft. Pistons GM Joe Dumars mentions a team should be built on various personalities and talents to format the right 12-man assembly needed for 82 plus game. Davis who guided LSU to the Final Four two seasons ago and consistently scores in the 20-point range while doubling up the rebound totals fits in the Motor City. Big Baby will be a crowd pleaser at the Palace since his nimbleness for his size matches a nice array of basketball gifts that are commensurate with the NBA way. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 28.)
28. San Antonio Spurs: Derrick Byars 6-7 Vanderbilt: Byars from Vandy is a dandy addition to Pop’s World champions. The aging Spurs small forward line would be enhanced by Byars offensive/defensive exploits. Byars was the best player in the rugged SEC last year and played outstanding against forward competition that is decked throughout this Mock Draft as first round picks. Byars would keep the opposition defense honest in a pick and roll set with Tim Duncan. Derrick also moonlights as a catch and shoot menace should Tony Parker draw attention on penetration. Byars is knowledgeable in playing the passing lanes since the Spurs like there forward’s to cheat ball side on any picked up perimeter dribble offsetting ball reversal with vigorous close-outs. Silver and black for you Derrick after the gold and black Commodore’s prepared you for play near the Alamo’s brick house. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 23, Number 27, Number 28, and Number 30.)
29. Phoenix Suns: Petteri Koponen 6-5 Finland: I know you ask who is Petteri Koponen? Koponen is a fast rising point guard that has outplayed, played at par with big name draft eligible guards, and has displayed superior efficiencies via a multitude of skills execution at various NBA workouts. Koponen has demonstrated rare abilities with his escape dribble capacities, peripheral vision, execution of runners and floaters, and not to mention his can’t teach anticipation skills. Koponen at 6-5 can play two but he’s all about the point guard position. Steve Nash who was the recipient of various physical forces against the spicy Spurs is the trusted mentor for the young Fin and Nash can play off ball to Petteri to help reduce the abuse he absorbs since Steve dribbles the pill incessantly. Koponen will find his way in the NBA highlight reels and give his game time rival a strong adversary. (Previous Mock Draft position: none.)
30. Philadelphia 76ers: Nick Fazekas 6-11 Nevada: Nick a first team All-American is a steal at 30. Fazekas is a solid 4 slot big that is a lights out shooter. Fazekas power forward style resembles The Jazz Mehmet Okur and former Piston Bill Laimbeer who are/were expert at stepping behind the arc and draining three pointers. Fazekas running style won’t remind no one of Carl Lewis yet he is no slouch at playing the 24 second rules with good utilization of making v-cuts across the lane and posting up to the basket with a grounded posture sloped at 90 degrees. Fazekas has solid footwork with his back to the basket and rebounds with course of action knack Fazekas will have a solid NBA career ahead of him. (Previous Mock Draft positions Number 25, Number 26, and Number 30.)

The Top Dime (alphabetical order)

1. Arron Afflalo 6-4 UCLA
2. Daequan Cook 6-5 Ohio State
3. Jermareo Davidson 6-10 Alabama
4. Aaron Gray 7-0 Pittsburgh
5. Taurean Green 6-0 Florida
6. Demetris Nichols 6-7 Syracuse
7. Jamaal Tatum 6-1 Southern Illinois
8. Alando Tucker 6-5 Wisconsin
9. Marcus Williams 6-8 Arizona
10. Sean Williams 6-10 Boston College

Top 5 Wild Cards (potential aces)

1. Jared Jordan 6-2 Marist
2. Trey Johnson 6-5 Jackson State
3. Coby Karl 6-5 Boise State
4. Brad Newley Australia
5. DaShaun Wood 5-11 Wright State