2 Guys, 2 Mocks, 1 Article with Maniac
Sept 4, 2012 23:15:11 GMT -5
Post by nybombers3 on Sept 4, 2012 23:15:11 GMT -5
Red = Maniac
Blue = Andy
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
D12 is about as sure-fire of a top pick as we will see in BBSFive. The god awful Knicks (and they really do fucking suck) will instantly have a franchise centerpiece in Dwight. He is the hands-down top player in this draft and instantly should be one of the better defensive stoppers in the league. He is raw offensively but his sheer physical capabilities and rebounding/defensive prowess will make him a major factor from day one. Dwight will be a perennial All Star and should put himself in the discussion for numerous Defensive Player of the Year awards. The Knicks will probably drop to 5th in the lottery but if they somehow manage to get the first pick (they won't) then Dwight is a lock here
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
Won't be any disagreement here, obviously. D12 is the first overall pick in this draft without question. He will be a stud defender/rebounder right away which is obviously highly valuable in this league. Dwight is obviously be the first option off the bat for the Knicks which should give them a sneak preview into what he can do in the future. While his offense is raw, that's a great thing for NY. It allows them to tank for another season or even two to try and land a 2nd star to place next to Dwight.
2.Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
I agree with Andy on this one as well. D12 is the consensus top pick but I think a few different guys could go in this #2 slot. However, the Nuggets are in a similar situation to the Knicks - they need help at all five positions. Josh Smith might just be the most explosive athlete in the draft and should be able to play either SF or PF in the future. He could be an absolute match-up nightmare at SF. He could be a guy who gets right around 2 SPG and 2 BPG in the future - that's very valuable in itself. I think the Nuggets have to go with the best player available and I think that's Smith right here.
2.Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
I agree with Maniac. I don't love JSmoove but it's fairly obvious he's the second most valuable guy in the draft. He can come in and do something not many in the league can do. Any player that can block shots AND steal the ball at a decent rate is valuable as hell. Smith will be, likely, be in a similar position as Dwight. A raw offensive player being the first option. Still, it allows the Nuggets to tank it out again next year. A switch to SF is likely in JSmoove's future and that's another highly valuable part to Smith. Also would likely help with the weak rebounding he currently looks to have.
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
Hopefully this is the last time I agree with Andy. However, Iguodala is a guy who could make a great case for being the #2 overall pick - he'd fit in nicely with Amare Stoudamire on the Jazz. Iggy should be a defensive stopper for years to come and appears to have balance in his game to be an All Star type of player. He has the prototypical size that a GM looks for in a SG (which allows him to be a plus..not pus..rebounder) and is a good enough athlete to offset his raw offensive skills. Pairing Iguodala with the very athletic Amare Stoudamire is just too enticing for the Jazz to ignore; I think Iggy has to go in the top 3.
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
Stupid Maniac agreeing with me throughout. Iggy would likely to higher in any future draft with his ratings/notes but he'll be dropping to 3 here. While he's another defensive guy with a raw offensive game, he might be the most polished of the 3, at least at the start. Scariest downfall to Iggy might be the handles. Hopefully they aren't to be an issue for whoever jumps to 3 and knocks the Jazz down to 6. If they somehow do stay at 3, Iggy and STAT is a very nice start to any team's rebuilding.
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
I was originally trying to justify a reason for the Rockets to take Luol Deng at the #4 spot but I just don't think he could pass up on an Al Jeff/Yao tandem. That's a pretty sick combination at the 4/5. Jefferson is poor defensively but his size and strength could make him an absolute weapon next to Yao (and I think Yao can help cover for his defensive shortcomings). I think big men will rule this league for the near future - it just seems to happen when talent is down a bit. Jefferson should develop into a guy that puts up right around 20 PPG and something like 12 RPG. Just tough to pass up on a nice big here. However, I think the draft gets REALLY interesting after this spot.
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
Al Jeff breaks the trend of defensive players with raw offenses coming into the league. Al Jeff likely has the most polished offense of the guys picked thus far and next to big ass Yao, that's a huge weapon. While Al will likely average around 1.5 bpg throughout his career, his post D is pretty sub par looking at best. Again, Yao is the perfect guy to huge that. Houston likely won't be able to tank next well year with that front court tandem but I doubt that's there biggest concern. A great front court is huge in this league and Houston would easily have a nice, young one for years to come.
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
Philadelphia has a franchise PG in Tony Parker. They have a solid big to work with in David West. However, they don't have anyone that can really score at will. I think Ben Gordon will be a very valuable player in this league because he can flat out score. He should immediately enter the league as one of the top shooters and I think he'd fit in nicely with the core of the 76ers. Luol Deng might fit here as well but I don't see him bringing that explosiveness that the Sixers really need. I could see Gordon being a darkhorse candidate for ROY and a guy who might come close to 20 PPG in his rookie season. I just really like the idea of Tony Parker having a guy like Gordon by his side - that would be an explosive backcourt.
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
I see what Maniac is doing and while I don't disagree with his overall plan, I'd go with the better overall player. I'm just not that in love with Ben. It's likely that his real life self clouds my judgement a bit but meh. I think Ben should go a bit later. Deng would give Philly a good defensive presence at the 3. If Philly plans to tank it later, Deng would likely be a good pick since it's doubtful his offense will be any good to begin with. I think, at the end of the day, Deng will be the better player between the two and that's who Philly should go for.
6. Chicago Bulls - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
The Bulls have a solid nucleus of talent - Mike Bibby should develop into a good starting PG, Pau should become one of the better big men in the league, and they have a few solid complimentary players. I think they look to build on the strongest part of their team - big men. I mean..they have Darko. Seriously though, I think Okafor can man the C position and compliments Pau nicely. Pau is a natural scoring big. Okafor is stout defensively and will get his share of rebounds. I think he's a start from day one and should develop into a B C- D+ A- B+ type of player - pretty solid guy to grab at this point. I just love the potential Pau/Okafor duo.
6. Chicago Bulls - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
For me, it was either Emeka or Gordon here. While I may "disagree" with the selection here, again, I can't hate it and I actually like the general idea. Still, I'd be a bit shocked if Ben goes past 6. Sure, I didn't love his game but he can score and that's something the Bulls could use more of, especially at the wings. QBricks and Dickerson suck. I feel like Styro really likes Darko and thinks he has potential. A few RC's and AC's and I'm sure Darko can turn into more then just a decent player overall. Gordon gives the Bulls a nice starting line up (though they would need a 3).
7. Miami Heat - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
I don't think my draft is ideal for the Heat but they have to go with the best player available. The best player available at this point is Luol Deng. I think Wallace/Deng would form one of the better defensive tandems in the league. The athletic ability of those two is very exciting. Zach Randolph is a guy who will always score a ton of points but struggle defensively. It might not be such a bad idea to gather solid defensive pieces around ZBo. Mike Miller is another solid piece for the Heat. They could go super small/super athletic and toss Miller/Wallace/Deng/ZBo on the court or use Miller as a super-sub type of player. It'd be fun to play around with that group of young talent.
7. Miami Heat - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
I think Emeka goes here. Not sure how Miami would feel about drafting a BBS ready guy but he's definitely the best available guy. If GWall can get his shit together, a Emeka/Wallace front court can very easily cover up Zach's main weakness. Mike Miller aside, the Heat don't really have anyone else to count on so maybe a Emeka addition won't hurt them much in any potential tanking plans. Worst comes to worst, the Heat should have solid cap room to sign any of the potential guys coming over into FA. It's definitely a tough road for Miami either way.
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
I have to agree with Andy on this one - I think Kevin Martin just makes sense for the Mavericks. They're going to have to bank on Hinrich becoming the PG of their future - they're paying him a lot of money. Tyson Chandler is a defensive stalwart in that lineup. They just do not have a dynamic scorer on their team and Kevin Martin has the potential to become exactly that. Martin could become a B- A type of scorer and that's a valuable player in this league. Could pair nicely with Kyle Korver to create a sharp-shooting duo.
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
Emeka would've been a very nice addition to the Mavs but as is, won't be happening. Korver, KMart and Hinrich would definitely be a nice outside looking building block for the Mavs. I'm really not all that sold on the future of Hinrich but he's there. Gotta work with what ya got. KMart should be the feature option from the jump and likely a 15-18 point scorer off the bat. Maybe more. With the Mavs having cap space, they might be able to sign one of the guys coming over and build a solid starting 5 for next season. Mavs do have options there.
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
The Lakers have one of the most exciting young guys in the league with Carmelo Anthony - he will be a superstar for years to come. Andy goes with Tony Allen here and he's still available on my board as well. However, I think Jameer Nelson is a good fit with this team. He's the best PG prospect available and the Lakers really need a young PG. Nelson adds a little more offensive flair to the Lakers line-up and should develop into a C A- B B+ C- type of player if he has some potential. I think Nelson/Melo/Curry/Kaman is a solid, young core.
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
Likely the pick that may draw the most attention. While the Lakers do need a PG, I think they could definitely use that glue guy that brings the D. In the old BBS, I wouldn't really think of drafting a guy like Allen this high but Allen gives the Lakers someone that matches up with Melo and Curry well considering the sub par D they both posses. I personally really like Allen and feel he would be a great addition for any team.
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
I really like Tony Allen here for the Grizzlies. Baron Davis is going to develop into one of the better young PG's in the league. And, despite taking a lot of criticism for the pick, I'm a believer in Joe Johnson. He's clearly raw but his numbers have crawled back to a bit more respectable level. Those two are both scorers. Al Harrington is going to be a scorer. Tony Allen could become a stud defender. I really like the 1-2-3 of Baron Davis/Tony Allen/Joe Johnson. I think they'd compliment one another nicely. Allen is a gritty defender and should produce a lot of steals. B-Diddy and Joe Johnson will never be great defenders - Allen helps offset that.
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
Obviously love the Allen pick here for the Grizz if he's there. With my mock, I'm going to go with the fro here. Going by the ratings and notes, Childress will be a good overall player. If JJ pans out and BDizzle keeps playing well, it gives the Grizzlies a very nice building block at the 1-2-3. Al Harrington I feel will be better off getting buckets off the bench as a 6th man so that's another good thing this does for the Grizzlies.
11. New Orleans Hornets - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
Here's a great question: how have the fucking Hornets won so many games? That team is awful. The Hornets simply have to take the best player available and I think that Varejao fits the bill at this point. I thought about Devin Harris at first but he's a similar player to Jay Williams. I thought about Josh Childress. However, Varejao is being billed as a player that can step in from day one and make a difference. The Hornets certainly need a ton more than AV but, well, it's a starting point.
11. New Orleans Hornets - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
Seems like Maniac and myself just flip around prospects. That said, I also have the same question. How the Hornets have as many wins as they currently have is amazing to me. AV is a very good pick for them but I feel like Nelson should be gone by here in my mock. Nelson gives them a legit PG. I'm really not a fan of any of there current 4 PG's. From the looks of it, I don't see them being bad enough to tank for a PG next year so Nelson it is. He appears to be a very serviceable guy at worst so he should be a welcomed addition to an overachieving Hornets team.
12. Toronto Raptors - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
Tough spot for the Raptors here. I think Andy's pick of Varejao would've been perfect for this squad but, well, he's gone on my board. Josh Childress or Devin Harris are probably the best players available at this point but, goodness, they already have a logjam of SG's/SF's. Arenas would be better off at SG but I don't see Harris being the future at PG here. So, I'm going to go with the safe pick for the Raptors and go with Biedrins. I think he's the best big available at this point. Solid defensively. Solid rebounder. They'll need some of that with guys like Arenas and J-Rich on the roster.
12. Toronto Raptors - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
AV dropping this far would be a dream come true for Toronto. While Toronto may not NEED a big (since they have about 10 centers) but he's the best player available and would allow the Raptors to continue tanking since they won't be addressing there back court need. I don't see anyone else they should draft at this point so, yeah, side show bob it is.
13. Orlando Magic - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
I think the Magic just have to go with the best player available here. LeBron will be a flexible enough player to man the 2, 3, or 4 so him being the same position as Childress really doesn't matter. Run Rip at 2, Childress at 3, LeBron at 4, Dalembert at 5. Allows them to use Griffin as a super-sub type of player. They really need a PG but, again, I just don't like Devin Harris as a fit here. Childress is just solid across the board - good mid-range and 3-point shooter, solid ball handler, solid rebounder and defender.
13. Orlando Magic - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
Pretty similar to what Maniac said. I don't think they really NEED a player like Biedrins but to me, he's the best player left in my mock. Play does love drafting former Warriors so it fits that also. Biedrins would be a nice 6th man for the Magic or he can push Griffin as a super sub, as Manic said. The only other guy I would really consider here instead of AB is JR Smith but I think drafting a big would be a better option then a 2 guard.
The full mocks:
Maniac:
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
2. Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
6. Chicago Bulls - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
7. Miami Heat - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
11. New Orleans Hornets - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
12. Toronto Raptors - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
13. Orlando Magic - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
14. Los Angeles Clippers - Devin Harris PG 6'3'' 185 21 B- C+ C+ C D+ B
15. Seattle SuperSonics - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 235 19 B- C D+ B- C+ B
16. Washington Wizards - Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 19 B- C C B C B
17. Cleveland Cavaliers - Andre Emmett SF 6'5'' 230 22 B- C C A- C C
18. Milwaukee Bucks - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 182 18 C C C+ B C B
19. New York Knicks (via Nets) - J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 18 C B+ C- C D+ B
20. San Antonio Spurs - Chris Duhon PG 6'1'' 185 22 C B- C+ B- C- B
21. Utah Jazz (via Hawks) - Donta Smith SF 6'7'' 215 20 B- C C C+ C A
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Dorell Wright SF 6'7'' 200 18 B- C C C+ C B
23. Sacramento Kings - Robert Swift C 7'0'' 245 18 C+ C- D+ C+ C+ B
24. Dallas Mavericks (via Pacers) - Sasha Vujacic PG 6'7'' 193 20 C A- C C+ D+ C
25. Houston Rockets (via Timberwolves) - Beno Udrih PG 6'3'' 205 22 C B- C+ C D+ B
26. Denver Nuggets (via Suns) - Viktor Khryapa SF 6'9'' 210 21 B- C C B C B
27. Dallas Mavericks (via Pistons) - Luke Jackson SF 6'7'' 215 22 C A- C- C D+ C
28. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors) - Sergei Monia SF 6'8'' 220 21 B- C C B- C C
29. Washington Wizards (via Celtics) - Delonte West PG 6'4'' 180 21 C B+ C C C B
Andy:
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
2. Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
6. Chicago Bulls - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
7. Miami Heat - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
11. New Orleans Hornets - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
12. Toronto Raptors - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
13. Orlando Magic - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
14. Los Angeles Clippers - Devin Harris PG 6'3'' 185 21 B- C+ C+ C D+ B
15. Seattle SuperSonics - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 235 19 B- C D+ B- C+ B
16. Washington Wizards – J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 18 C B+ C- C D+ B
17. Cleveland Cavaliers – Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 19 B- C C B C B
18. Milwaukee Bucks – Andre Emmett SF 6'5'' 230 22 B- C C A- C C
19. New York Knicks (via Nets) – Donta Smith SF 6'7'' 215 20 B- C C C+ C A
20. San Antonio Spurs - Chris Duhon PG 6'1'' 185 22 C B- C+ B- C- B
21. Utah Jazz (via Hawks) - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 182 18 C C C+ B C B
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Dorell Wright SF 6'7'' 200 18 B- C C C+ C B
23. Sacramento Kings – Delonte West PG 6'4'' 180 21 C B+ C C C B
24. Dallas Mavericks (via Pacers) – Robert Swift C 7'0'' 245 18 C+ C- D+ C+ C+ B
25. Houston Rockets (via Timberwolves) - Beno Udrih PG 6'3'' 205 22 C B- C+ C D+ B
26. Denver Nuggets (via Suns) - Luke Jackson SF 6'7'' 215 22 C A- C- C D+ C
27. Dallas Mavericks (via Pistons) - Viktor Khryapa SF 6'9'' 210 21 B- C C B C B
28. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors) - Sergei Monia SF 6'8'' 220 21 B- C C B- C C
29. Washington Wizards (via Celtics) - Sasha Vujacic PG 6'7'' 193 20 C A- C C+ D+ C
Blue = Andy
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
D12 is about as sure-fire of a top pick as we will see in BBSFive. The god awful Knicks (and they really do fucking suck) will instantly have a franchise centerpiece in Dwight. He is the hands-down top player in this draft and instantly should be one of the better defensive stoppers in the league. He is raw offensively but his sheer physical capabilities and rebounding/defensive prowess will make him a major factor from day one. Dwight will be a perennial All Star and should put himself in the discussion for numerous Defensive Player of the Year awards. The Knicks will probably drop to 5th in the lottery but if they somehow manage to get the first pick (they won't) then Dwight is a lock here
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
Won't be any disagreement here, obviously. D12 is the first overall pick in this draft without question. He will be a stud defender/rebounder right away which is obviously highly valuable in this league. Dwight is obviously be the first option off the bat for the Knicks which should give them a sneak preview into what he can do in the future. While his offense is raw, that's a great thing for NY. It allows them to tank for another season or even two to try and land a 2nd star to place next to Dwight.
2.Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
I agree with Andy on this one as well. D12 is the consensus top pick but I think a few different guys could go in this #2 slot. However, the Nuggets are in a similar situation to the Knicks - they need help at all five positions. Josh Smith might just be the most explosive athlete in the draft and should be able to play either SF or PF in the future. He could be an absolute match-up nightmare at SF. He could be a guy who gets right around 2 SPG and 2 BPG in the future - that's very valuable in itself. I think the Nuggets have to go with the best player available and I think that's Smith right here.
2.Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
I agree with Maniac. I don't love JSmoove but it's fairly obvious he's the second most valuable guy in the draft. He can come in and do something not many in the league can do. Any player that can block shots AND steal the ball at a decent rate is valuable as hell. Smith will be, likely, be in a similar position as Dwight. A raw offensive player being the first option. Still, it allows the Nuggets to tank it out again next year. A switch to SF is likely in JSmoove's future and that's another highly valuable part to Smith. Also would likely help with the weak rebounding he currently looks to have.
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
Hopefully this is the last time I agree with Andy. However, Iguodala is a guy who could make a great case for being the #2 overall pick - he'd fit in nicely with Amare Stoudamire on the Jazz. Iggy should be a defensive stopper for years to come and appears to have balance in his game to be an All Star type of player. He has the prototypical size that a GM looks for in a SG (which allows him to be a plus..not pus..rebounder) and is a good enough athlete to offset his raw offensive skills. Pairing Iguodala with the very athletic Amare Stoudamire is just too enticing for the Jazz to ignore; I think Iggy has to go in the top 3.
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
Stupid Maniac agreeing with me throughout. Iggy would likely to higher in any future draft with his ratings/notes but he'll be dropping to 3 here. While he's another defensive guy with a raw offensive game, he might be the most polished of the 3, at least at the start. Scariest downfall to Iggy might be the handles. Hopefully they aren't to be an issue for whoever jumps to 3 and knocks the Jazz down to 6. If they somehow do stay at 3, Iggy and STAT is a very nice start to any team's rebuilding.
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
I was originally trying to justify a reason for the Rockets to take Luol Deng at the #4 spot but I just don't think he could pass up on an Al Jeff/Yao tandem. That's a pretty sick combination at the 4/5. Jefferson is poor defensively but his size and strength could make him an absolute weapon next to Yao (and I think Yao can help cover for his defensive shortcomings). I think big men will rule this league for the near future - it just seems to happen when talent is down a bit. Jefferson should develop into a guy that puts up right around 20 PPG and something like 12 RPG. Just tough to pass up on a nice big here. However, I think the draft gets REALLY interesting after this spot.
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
Al Jeff breaks the trend of defensive players with raw offenses coming into the league. Al Jeff likely has the most polished offense of the guys picked thus far and next to big ass Yao, that's a huge weapon. While Al will likely average around 1.5 bpg throughout his career, his post D is pretty sub par looking at best. Again, Yao is the perfect guy to huge that. Houston likely won't be able to tank next well year with that front court tandem but I doubt that's there biggest concern. A great front court is huge in this league and Houston would easily have a nice, young one for years to come.
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
Philadelphia has a franchise PG in Tony Parker. They have a solid big to work with in David West. However, they don't have anyone that can really score at will. I think Ben Gordon will be a very valuable player in this league because he can flat out score. He should immediately enter the league as one of the top shooters and I think he'd fit in nicely with the core of the 76ers. Luol Deng might fit here as well but I don't see him bringing that explosiveness that the Sixers really need. I could see Gordon being a darkhorse candidate for ROY and a guy who might come close to 20 PPG in his rookie season. I just really like the idea of Tony Parker having a guy like Gordon by his side - that would be an explosive backcourt.
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
I see what Maniac is doing and while I don't disagree with his overall plan, I'd go with the better overall player. I'm just not that in love with Ben. It's likely that his real life self clouds my judgement a bit but meh. I think Ben should go a bit later. Deng would give Philly a good defensive presence at the 3. If Philly plans to tank it later, Deng would likely be a good pick since it's doubtful his offense will be any good to begin with. I think, at the end of the day, Deng will be the better player between the two and that's who Philly should go for.
6. Chicago Bulls - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
The Bulls have a solid nucleus of talent - Mike Bibby should develop into a good starting PG, Pau should become one of the better big men in the league, and they have a few solid complimentary players. I think they look to build on the strongest part of their team - big men. I mean..they have Darko. Seriously though, I think Okafor can man the C position and compliments Pau nicely. Pau is a natural scoring big. Okafor is stout defensively and will get his share of rebounds. I think he's a start from day one and should develop into a B C- D+ A- B+ type of player - pretty solid guy to grab at this point. I just love the potential Pau/Okafor duo.
6. Chicago Bulls - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
For me, it was either Emeka or Gordon here. While I may "disagree" with the selection here, again, I can't hate it and I actually like the general idea. Still, I'd be a bit shocked if Ben goes past 6. Sure, I didn't love his game but he can score and that's something the Bulls could use more of, especially at the wings. QBricks and Dickerson suck. I feel like Styro really likes Darko and thinks he has potential. A few RC's and AC's and I'm sure Darko can turn into more then just a decent player overall. Gordon gives the Bulls a nice starting line up (though they would need a 3).
7. Miami Heat - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
I don't think my draft is ideal for the Heat but they have to go with the best player available. The best player available at this point is Luol Deng. I think Wallace/Deng would form one of the better defensive tandems in the league. The athletic ability of those two is very exciting. Zach Randolph is a guy who will always score a ton of points but struggle defensively. It might not be such a bad idea to gather solid defensive pieces around ZBo. Mike Miller is another solid piece for the Heat. They could go super small/super athletic and toss Miller/Wallace/Deng/ZBo on the court or use Miller as a super-sub type of player. It'd be fun to play around with that group of young talent.
7. Miami Heat - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
I think Emeka goes here. Not sure how Miami would feel about drafting a BBS ready guy but he's definitely the best available guy. If GWall can get his shit together, a Emeka/Wallace front court can very easily cover up Zach's main weakness. Mike Miller aside, the Heat don't really have anyone else to count on so maybe a Emeka addition won't hurt them much in any potential tanking plans. Worst comes to worst, the Heat should have solid cap room to sign any of the potential guys coming over into FA. It's definitely a tough road for Miami either way.
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
I have to agree with Andy on this one - I think Kevin Martin just makes sense for the Mavericks. They're going to have to bank on Hinrich becoming the PG of their future - they're paying him a lot of money. Tyson Chandler is a defensive stalwart in that lineup. They just do not have a dynamic scorer on their team and Kevin Martin has the potential to become exactly that. Martin could become a B- A type of scorer and that's a valuable player in this league. Could pair nicely with Kyle Korver to create a sharp-shooting duo.
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
Emeka would've been a very nice addition to the Mavs but as is, won't be happening. Korver, KMart and Hinrich would definitely be a nice outside looking building block for the Mavs. I'm really not all that sold on the future of Hinrich but he's there. Gotta work with what ya got. KMart should be the feature option from the jump and likely a 15-18 point scorer off the bat. Maybe more. With the Mavs having cap space, they might be able to sign one of the guys coming over and build a solid starting 5 for next season. Mavs do have options there.
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
The Lakers have one of the most exciting young guys in the league with Carmelo Anthony - he will be a superstar for years to come. Andy goes with Tony Allen here and he's still available on my board as well. However, I think Jameer Nelson is a good fit with this team. He's the best PG prospect available and the Lakers really need a young PG. Nelson adds a little more offensive flair to the Lakers line-up and should develop into a C A- B B+ C- type of player if he has some potential. I think Nelson/Melo/Curry/Kaman is a solid, young core.
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
Likely the pick that may draw the most attention. While the Lakers do need a PG, I think they could definitely use that glue guy that brings the D. In the old BBS, I wouldn't really think of drafting a guy like Allen this high but Allen gives the Lakers someone that matches up with Melo and Curry well considering the sub par D they both posses. I personally really like Allen and feel he would be a great addition for any team.
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
I really like Tony Allen here for the Grizzlies. Baron Davis is going to develop into one of the better young PG's in the league. And, despite taking a lot of criticism for the pick, I'm a believer in Joe Johnson. He's clearly raw but his numbers have crawled back to a bit more respectable level. Those two are both scorers. Al Harrington is going to be a scorer. Tony Allen could become a stud defender. I really like the 1-2-3 of Baron Davis/Tony Allen/Joe Johnson. I think they'd compliment one another nicely. Allen is a gritty defender and should produce a lot of steals. B-Diddy and Joe Johnson will never be great defenders - Allen helps offset that.
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
Obviously love the Allen pick here for the Grizz if he's there. With my mock, I'm going to go with the fro here. Going by the ratings and notes, Childress will be a good overall player. If JJ pans out and BDizzle keeps playing well, it gives the Grizzlies a very nice building block at the 1-2-3. Al Harrington I feel will be better off getting buckets off the bench as a 6th man so that's another good thing this does for the Grizzlies.
11. New Orleans Hornets - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
Here's a great question: how have the fucking Hornets won so many games? That team is awful. The Hornets simply have to take the best player available and I think that Varejao fits the bill at this point. I thought about Devin Harris at first but he's a similar player to Jay Williams. I thought about Josh Childress. However, Varejao is being billed as a player that can step in from day one and make a difference. The Hornets certainly need a ton more than AV but, well, it's a starting point.
11. New Orleans Hornets - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
Seems like Maniac and myself just flip around prospects. That said, I also have the same question. How the Hornets have as many wins as they currently have is amazing to me. AV is a very good pick for them but I feel like Nelson should be gone by here in my mock. Nelson gives them a legit PG. I'm really not a fan of any of there current 4 PG's. From the looks of it, I don't see them being bad enough to tank for a PG next year so Nelson it is. He appears to be a very serviceable guy at worst so he should be a welcomed addition to an overachieving Hornets team.
12. Toronto Raptors - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
Tough spot for the Raptors here. I think Andy's pick of Varejao would've been perfect for this squad but, well, he's gone on my board. Josh Childress or Devin Harris are probably the best players available at this point but, goodness, they already have a logjam of SG's/SF's. Arenas would be better off at SG but I don't see Harris being the future at PG here. So, I'm going to go with the safe pick for the Raptors and go with Biedrins. I think he's the best big available at this point. Solid defensively. Solid rebounder. They'll need some of that with guys like Arenas and J-Rich on the roster.
12. Toronto Raptors - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
AV dropping this far would be a dream come true for Toronto. While Toronto may not NEED a big (since they have about 10 centers) but he's the best player available and would allow the Raptors to continue tanking since they won't be addressing there back court need. I don't see anyone else they should draft at this point so, yeah, side show bob it is.
13. Orlando Magic - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
I think the Magic just have to go with the best player available here. LeBron will be a flexible enough player to man the 2, 3, or 4 so him being the same position as Childress really doesn't matter. Run Rip at 2, Childress at 3, LeBron at 4, Dalembert at 5. Allows them to use Griffin as a super-sub type of player. They really need a PG but, again, I just don't like Devin Harris as a fit here. Childress is just solid across the board - good mid-range and 3-point shooter, solid ball handler, solid rebounder and defender.
13. Orlando Magic - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
Pretty similar to what Maniac said. I don't think they really NEED a player like Biedrins but to me, he's the best player left in my mock. Play does love drafting former Warriors so it fits that also. Biedrins would be a nice 6th man for the Magic or he can push Griffin as a super sub, as Manic said. The only other guy I would really consider here instead of AB is JR Smith but I think drafting a big would be a better option then a 2 guard.
The full mocks:
Maniac:
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
2. Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
6. Chicago Bulls - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
7. Miami Heat - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
11. New Orleans Hornets - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
12. Toronto Raptors - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
13. Orlando Magic - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
14. Los Angeles Clippers - Devin Harris PG 6'3'' 185 21 B- C+ C+ C D+ B
15. Seattle SuperSonics - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 235 19 B- C D+ B- C+ B
16. Washington Wizards - Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 19 B- C C B C B
17. Cleveland Cavaliers - Andre Emmett SF 6'5'' 230 22 B- C C A- C C
18. Milwaukee Bucks - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 182 18 C C C+ B C B
19. New York Knicks (via Nets) - J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 18 C B+ C- C D+ B
20. San Antonio Spurs - Chris Duhon PG 6'1'' 185 22 C B- C+ B- C- B
21. Utah Jazz (via Hawks) - Donta Smith SF 6'7'' 215 20 B- C C C+ C A
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Dorell Wright SF 6'7'' 200 18 B- C C C+ C B
23. Sacramento Kings - Robert Swift C 7'0'' 245 18 C+ C- D+ C+ C+ B
24. Dallas Mavericks (via Pacers) - Sasha Vujacic PG 6'7'' 193 20 C A- C C+ D+ C
25. Houston Rockets (via Timberwolves) - Beno Udrih PG 6'3'' 205 22 C B- C+ C D+ B
26. Denver Nuggets (via Suns) - Viktor Khryapa SF 6'9'' 210 21 B- C C B C B
27. Dallas Mavericks (via Pistons) - Luke Jackson SF 6'7'' 215 22 C A- C- C D+ C
28. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors) - Sergei Monia SF 6'8'' 220 21 B- C C B- C C
29. Washington Wizards (via Celtics) - Delonte West PG 6'4'' 180 21 C B+ C C C B
Andy:
1. New York Knicks - Dwight Howard PF 6'11'' 240 18 B D D B B A
2. Denver Nuggets - Josh Smith PF 6'9'' 225 18 B C C B C A
3. Utah Jazz - Andre Iguodala SG 6'6'' 207 20 B- C+ C+ B- C A
4. Houston Rockets - Al Jefferson PF 6'10'' 265 19 B- C- C- C B- A
5. Philadelphia 76ers - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 19 B- C C- B- C A
6. Chicago Bulls - Ben Gordon SG 6'3'' 200 21 C+ A- C+ C D+ B
7. Miami Heat - Emeka Okafor PF 6'10'' 252 21 B- D+ D+ B B B
8. Dallas Mavericks - Kevin Martin SG 6'7'' 185 21 C B+ C- C D+ A
9. Los Angeles Lakers - Tony Allen SG 6'4'' 213 22 B- C C A- C+ B
10. Memphis Grizzlies - Josh Childress SF 6'8'' 210 21 C+ B C- B C B
11. New Orleans Hornets - Jameer Nelson PG 6'0'' 190 22 C B C+ B- C- B
12. Toronto Raptors - Anderson Varejao C 6'10'' 230 21 C+ C- D+ B B B
13. Orlando Magic - Andris Biedrins PF 6'11'' 240 18 C+ D D+ B- B- B
14. Los Angeles Clippers - Devin Harris PG 6'3'' 185 21 B- C+ C+ C D+ B
15. Seattle SuperSonics - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 235 19 B- C D+ B- C+ B
16. Washington Wizards – J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 18 C B+ C- C D+ B
17. Cleveland Cavaliers – Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 19 B- C C B C B
18. Milwaukee Bucks – Andre Emmett SF 6'5'' 230 22 B- C C A- C C
19. New York Knicks (via Nets) – Donta Smith SF 6'7'' 215 20 B- C C C+ C A
20. San Antonio Spurs - Chris Duhon PG 6'1'' 185 22 C B- C+ B- C- B
21. Utah Jazz (via Hawks) - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 182 18 C C C+ B C B
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Dorell Wright SF 6'7'' 200 18 B- C C C+ C B
23. Sacramento Kings – Delonte West PG 6'4'' 180 21 C B+ C C C B
24. Dallas Mavericks (via Pacers) – Robert Swift C 7'0'' 245 18 C+ C- D+ C+ C+ B
25. Houston Rockets (via Timberwolves) - Beno Udrih PG 6'3'' 205 22 C B- C+ C D+ B
26. Denver Nuggets (via Suns) - Luke Jackson SF 6'7'' 215 22 C A- C- C D+ C
27. Dallas Mavericks (via Pistons) - Viktor Khryapa SF 6'9'' 210 21 B- C C B C B
28. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors) - Sergei Monia SF 6'8'' 220 21 B- C C B- C C
29. Washington Wizards (via Celtics) - Sasha Vujacic PG 6'7'' 193 20 C A- C C+ D+ C
