Post by Zyme on Jul 2, 2009 17:08:40 GMT -8
The 1995 NBA draft featured a perfect storm that saw the largest jump in NBA lottery history. This ended up in the Los Angeles Lakers jumping up from the 10th pick, allowing them to select #1 overall. Besides the Lakers, the Suns, Warriors, Cavaliers, Bucks, Mavericks, and Timberwolves all had active draft days that may signal turning points in their franchises' fortunes.
by Zyme, LA Times
Mock Draft:
1. Kevin Garnett 6'11 HS SR PF B C+ C B- B- A
2. Antonio McDyess 6'9 220 PF SO B C C- B B- B
3. Joe Smith 6'10 225 SO PF B C C C+ B- A
4. Jerry Stackhouse 6'6 218 SO SG B- C+ C B- C A
5. Michael Finley 6'7 215 SR SF B- C C+ B- C A
6. Yinka Dare 7'1 265 JR C C+ D- C- B- B- A
7. Bryant Reeves 7' 290 SR C B D- D+ B- B- B
8. Damon Stoudamire PG 5'10'' JR C- B+ B- C C- A
9. Brent Barry SG 6'6'' 185 SR C+ B- B- C+ C A
How it unfolded
1:Lakers—Kevin Garnett PF 6'11'' 220 17 B C+ C B- B- A
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scout's Take: Garnett is most likely the top pick in this draft. The fact that he transferred high schools to play in a much tougher league and still was flat out dominate makes scouts drool. He's been known to ball with the Bulls team and he does really well against that squad. Superstar player.
Our take: The Lakers struck gold with this one. They moved up to the second pick through the lottery from the 10th pick. They followed up this trick by moving up to the top spot by virtue of the Cavaliers vacating their top pick after violating league rules. This fills a huge role for them at the PF position and could be a seminal moment for this franchise.
2:Cavaliers—Vacated
Scouts Take: After not submitting their protections for the expansion draft, they were forced to vacate this pick. It would have become the 1st overall had they not violated these rules
Team Needs: PF, SF, SG
Our Take: This could set this franchise years. They could have had the #1 overall pick but are left with nothing. Only time will tell if they can recover from this setback.
3:Warriors—Jerry Stackhouse SG 6'6'' 218 20 B- C+ C B- C A
Team Needs: C/PF, PG, SG upgrade
Scouts Take: Scout's love the athletic ability from Stackhouse. He can fill the hoop and can then go and defend a team's best scorer. Scouts are not sure if he's top 3 material but he is easily top 5.
Our Take: And interesting pick. With Antonio McDyess and Joe Smith still on the board, this seemed a no brainer with their need for another post and total lack of a F/C rotation and they only seemed to only need an upgrade at the 2 spot. Seems like an overpick, but if he develops well this could be well worth it.
4:Bucks—Antonio McDyess PF 6'9'' 220 21 B C C- B B- B
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scouts Take: McDyess can jump through the roof and dunk with unmatched authority. Scout's are not sure if McDyess will enter the draft due to so many other clear cut number 1 picks and more importantly good big men. If he does come out, he will certainly be worth the pick at number one, that said he could easily fall to the bottom 10.
Our Take: A real need pick here. McDyess really fills a hole in the post and will fortify this young core for a long time. The Bucks had one of the best drafts, more to come on them...
5:Suns—Joe Smith PF 6'10'' 225 20 B C C C+ B- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts love Smith's potential as they feel he could be just as good as Chris Webber in last year's draft. Has a bit of an ego problem and there is also concern of a holdout if Smith isn't taken in the top 3. None the less Smith is warranted of the 1st pick.
Our Take: This was the start of a very active day for the suns. They both nuked their team and took on a lot of rookies this day. If he develops he could be a 3/4 combo of the future.
6:Raptors—Michael Finley SF 6'7'' 215 22 B- C C+ B- C A
Team Needs: PG, SF, C
Scouts Take: Scout's Take: Finley will be a multi-allstar but not a superstar player. Can pass the ball out of double teams and can create other shots at times. No doubt a top 15 player and should go top 10.
Our Take: The expansion raptors really couldn't go wrong. They took the top player still on the board and could provide some strong scoring in the future. This swingman could anchor this franchise for a long time.
7:Grizzlies—Brent Barry SG 6'6'' 218 20 B- C+ C B- C A
Team Needs: PG, SF
Scouts Take: Barry comes from a family that knows basketball. His dad was a star in the NBA and now Brent looks like he could be one with a few good years training. He will create for others and score when asked to but don't be surprised to see Barry pass on personal success for the better of the team. Lotto pick.
Our Take: Memphis, like their predecessor took the best player off the board despite team needs. Playing next to Dominique, Barry at the 3 spot seems like a great pickup.
8:Suns (From Trailblazers)—Damon Stoudamire PG 5'10'' 171 21 C- B+ B- C C- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts love Damon. He's a pure PG who can score outside. His defense is a tad of a concern but some GMs actually think he could be a good one down the road if a team can harness his speed on defense. Top 7 pick.
Our Take: Though small, this guard has the potential to be a realy contributer for years to come. At either the SG or PG position, he can contribute. He had a short move as Damon moves from Tucson to Phoenix. This pick cost the suns the Kings 1996, heat 98 1sts and Marcelo Nicola.
9:Suns (From Rockets)—Yinka Dare C 7'1'' 265 21 C+ D- C- B- B- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts know for sure Dare has a good load of potential. Heck, right now you can't get any worse in production than he is with his athletic ability. Boom or bust pick here. Should go late lotto to mid first strictly because of the chance to become a good player.
Our Take: Another raw player that could contribute. Will help shore up their post rotation. An all upside player. He has the potential to be great, but never showed anything, if he develops great pick, a risk/reward pick at this point.
10:Suns—Ed O'Bannon SF 6'8'' 222 22 B- C+ C C+ C+ A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scout's feel like O'Bannon could be a special player if he can put it all together. He needs to improve his foot speed. His jumper is solid but could be better. None the less will be a top 10 pick and could compete for a few all star games.
Our Take: Again the suns traded up to get here. This time they traded Wilkens, Manning, Majerle In exchange for the #10 pick, Jalen Rose and a 96 first. He has all the tools to succeed, but questions about his work ethic have cropped up and many wonder if he has the drive.
11:Nets (From Bullets)—Corliss Williamson SF 6'7'' 245 20 C+ C D+ B- C A
Team Needs: PG, C
Scouts Take: Williamson has the body to be a great NBA player. A tweener between the SG and SF spots. His upside will be determined by how he can grow into his body. Decent finisher but his footwork will need some major attention. Lacks the rebounding of the 3 spot and lacks the mobility to stay with 2 guards.
Our Take: Odd move here. Danny Manning did not last long on the nets. He was proptly shipped off to the bullets and they selected Williamson. An all developmental pick that does not seem to have NBA quickness. Risk/Reward pick, not sure if this will end up as a fair trade.
12:Mavericks—Bryce Polynice C 6'11'' 298 22 B C C- A B- D
Team Needs: Upgrades at all positions.
Scouts Take: Bryce is a beast. He is maybe the most NBA ready player in the draft. He dominated the WAC with his energy and pure strength. While at one point he was a top 5 pick, he slid badly as it was revealed his knees looked like someone nearly twice his age. If he can hold himself together he could become a future all-star, but his longevity could be serious issues going forward.
Our Take: The Mavericks really didn't need a heck of a lot. They have solid youth at every position and just picked the best player on the board. Having Polynice is an absolute steal if he can keep himself healthy.
13:Knicks—Bob Sura PG 6'5'' 200 21 C B D+ C- C A
Team Needs: C, SF
Scouts Take: Sura is a lights out shooter. He has one of the best strokes from deep of anyone in this class. The knocks on Sura is the he does not have good ability to create his own shot and may struggle against quicker NBA guard. This is mitigated by his sheer size. The potential is there, he jsut needs to hit the gym and bring his game to the next level.
Our Take: Sura is player that could contribute right away for the Knicks. Coming in as the backup SG or PG, reasonably he could come in and make a couple of threes. A solid back and a borderline starter if he develops.
14:Spurs—Theo Ratliff C 6'10'' 225 21 C+ F+ C- B B B
Team Needs: C, PF
Scouts Take: Theo could be a real asset on the defensive side of the ball. He is nearly NBA ready for both rebounding and defending in the post. Only thing that Theo lacks is the offensive side of the game. He has no jump shot to speak of and will likely only score on putbacks. Toughness defines Theo and his motor is hard to question.
Our Take: The Spurs needed an anchor, they got one. They can slot Theo in every night and pound the boards and defend the post. Though he may never hit 12ppg, he can rebound with the best and 10/12/2-3blks is not out o the question. Great need pick here.
15:Lakers (From Mavericks)—Absimov Hoyt PG 6'2'' 191 20 C- B B+ B+ D+ C
Team Needs: PG, PF
Scouts Take: Hoyt is the second most NBA ready player in this draft next to Polynice. He can take care of the ball, pass, and can defend right away. His ability to finish inside makes scouts question how much of a scorer he can become but all the other tools are there.
Our Take: A real need pick here. The Lakers traded both their picks for next year in order to get this pick. Seems the hope is he can either start or play backup for whomever they can get. If he develops, he could be a real steal.
16:Timberwolves (From Heat)—Bryant Reeves C 7'0'' 290 22 B D- D+ B- B- B
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Reeves could have a very good career if he's put into a good system and surrounded by other good players. Certainly can rely on him to be the muscle of your team. His battle of his weight will always be a concern. None the less his career at Oklahoma State should allow him to be a top 10 pick.
Our Take: Big Country has fallen into a good situation. He fell a little but at 16 he got picked by a team that had a need at the backup post position. He is a situation where can can develop his skills under veteran Willis.
17:Timberwolves—Gage Reeves SG 6'2'' 196 18 C+ C C B C- A
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Gage Reeves, no relation to Bryant Reeves, is an all upside player. He is very raw at this point, but his defense is solid. He has the tools to be a serviceable defender at both the SG and PG positions. Will nave no immediate impact but if his potential holds, he will reward a patient team.
Our Take: Following Garnett's example, he skipped out on college to got straight to the pros. Risk/Reward pick that will be one to watch. Though raw, he has the potential to be a lock down defender.
18:Jazz (From Kings)—Eric Williams SF 6'8'' 220 22 C+ C D+ B- C+ A
Team Needs:SF
Scouts Take: Scouts look at Williams like they did Lamond Murray of the lakers. They can shoot, but have trouble making opening for their shots. He has the ability do defend and has a NBA body at 6'8", filling in this fram will be what determines what kind of career this player has.
Our Take: He fills a need. At this point in the drat, really that is all you can hope to do. Good pickup for the Jazz but I am unsure if he is not a 1 contract and out player.
19:Bucks (From Pistons)—Eric Snow PG 6'3'' 190 22 C C+ B B C B
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scouts Take: Snow has the tools to be a great point guard in this draft. He has a decent stroke from outside. Scouts are interested over his combo of PG skills and his potential.
Our Take: Great Need pick again by the bucks. They addressed every need their team had and look to have a solid core of youth going forward. I really like their draft and what they have done with the picks they had.
20:Cavs (From Celtics)—Earvin Iba SF 6'9'' 245 21 C+ C C- C+ C A
Team Needs:SG, SF, PF
Scouts Take: Iba comes with an NBA ready body. He skills are not as polished as scouts would hope for but he can finish at the rim and defend a little. He is still young and the work ethic to fill in his frame.
Our Take: Iba is a need pick here. The cavaliers need a lot of help on the wings. Iba, though raw, may even start for them. If his potential holds or he bulks up in the gym he could become a decent contributer as a swingman or a post player.
21:Suns—Kurt Thomas PF 6'9'' 230 21 C C C C+ B A
Team Needs:PF, SF
Scouts Take: Kurt has the toughness to be a NBA player. He out works players for position well. He lacks a post game, however, but he has time to work on that. Can be an immidate contributer in a post rotation on many teams.
Our Take: Another solid pickup for the Suns. They took a player that will help them get toughter on the boards and help defend many backup posts in this league.
22:Celtics (From Supersonics via Lakers)—Gary Trent PF 6'8'' 250 21 B- C- B- C C+ A
Team Needs: Backups and role players
Scouts Take: Trent played a lot of PF in college and was able to score by simply using his speed to blow by inferior competition. Projected as a 4 or 3. Has a decent inside game but his jumpshot fails him at times.
Our Take: For the Celtics, their historical rivals took him before they could. This forced them to trade up and cost them a 2nd round pick (Mathew DeBernardi PG 6'2'' 185 23 C B- B- B D C). This happened to be their own 2nd back ant took a long time to come full circle:Lakers->Supersonics->Timberwolves->Celtics->Lakers. Could be a solid late first addition.
23:Lakers (From Bulls via Celtics)—Travis Best PG 5'11'' 182 22 C C+ C+ C C A
Team Needs: PG, PF
Scouts Take: Best is a little short to be an NBA PG, but he has the skillset your are looking for in a PG. He has the potential to be a future backup or borderline starter. Needs to develop skillset or will be out of the NBA in 3-4 years.
Our Take: Another need pick here. The lakers seem to be trying find a point guard as best they can. They choose best for his potential, hopefully he can live up to it.
24:Cavs (From Magic)—Preston Voskuhl SF 6'10'' 210 20 C C C C- C- A
Team Needs: PG, SG, SF
Scouts Take: Voshuhl is a enigma. He showed some flashes and has an NBA frame, but he has never lived up to his potential. If his body can fill in where his skills lack, he could become a decent pro.
Our Take: He is raw. This wil help the cavs wing rotation but it is questionable if he will ever be able to even backup at the NBA level. Risk/Reward pick.
25:Cavs (From 76ers)—Shawun Respert SG 6'1'' 185 22 C B C C C A
Team Needs:PG, SG, SF
Scouts Take: Shawun is a gunner. He has a good stroke form outside. He has a decent first move and can get up shots versus most college defenders. A little short to play SG. He could thrive in an uptempo system which would hide his underwhelming defensive abilities.
Our Take: Good pickup this late in the 1st, they needed a shooter at the 2 spot and he could become a decent backup if he can improve his shooting, defense, or both.
26:Nuggets—Vacated
Team Needs: Backup PG, SF
Scouts Take: After not submitting their protections for the expansion draft, they were forced to vacate this pick.
Our Take: The nuggets really didn't have a whole lot they needed, so this pick will be no great loss.
27:Jazz—Manuel Lister SG 6'2'' 197 20 C B- C+ C- C A
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Manuel can play both guard positions. He has a decent shot and his first step is quick enough to get it off, but his size may limit his effectiveness. Moving him to PG and hoping his handles develop may be a good option if the team does not have need at SG
Our Take: The jazz really couldn't go wrong here. They have a lot of pieces already and adressed their need at SF with their last pick. Drafting for potential here. Decent pickup here at the end of the 1st
28:Hornets—Greg Ostertag C 7'2'' 280 22 C C- C B- B- B
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Ostertag has size on his side. He uses this effectively to position for rebounds. May struggle with quicker centers. Good lateral quickness for his size. Point may be telegated to putbacks
Our Take: He may not score but he has both the quickness and the size to defend in the NBA. Looks like a solid pickup that will help the hornets solidify their post rotation.
29:Mavericks (From Pacers)—Steve Griffin SF 6'10'' 244 22 B- C+ C B- C- C
Team Needs: Upgrades at all positions
Scouts Take: Griffin is a player that can both finish and has a decent jumpshot from about 15ft out. He has the size and quickeness to defend post players in the NBA but scouts question his work ethic. This may cause him to slide on some board and limit his potential
Our Take: Very good pickup at the end of the 1st. He may not show much potential right now but if he focuses himself he could surprise quite a few people.
Steals/Players to look out for
Joe Smith...Wow, that kind of player at 5 is amazing
Bryce Polynice...Most NBA ready player falling into the Mavs lap at 12 is awesome for them. If his knees hold up he could be the steal of the draft
Absimov Hoyt...Could turn into a great pro, but his potential concerns many.
Bryant Reeves...great mid-1st pickup for the Wolves. Big country cometh!
Winners/Losers
Winners
Lakers: Moving from 10 to #1 says it all. On top of that, they filled out their draft with PG prospects.
Suns: How many top picks do you need. They sold the farm, but got back a boat of young prospects. 4 1st in the top 10.
Bucks: They addressed their need with solid player and have had another great draft. McDyess should anchor them for years to come.
Losers
Cavs: They lost out and vacated a pick that would have give them the top pick in the draft. They picks some decent prospects, but losing out on the top pick for violation league of rules could set them way back
Warriors:Stackhouse at the 2nd overall pick...really? They now have 8 guard and only one player guarding the post. Seems like a reach on top of that but this will be interesting to watch if they missed out on a real opportunity to draft to fortify their empty frontcourt.
Most active
Suns: 4 picks in the to 10, 3 acquired on draft day
Lakers: Trading up for the 15 and trading down for a 2nd and Best.
This year's gem?
Bryce Polynice C 6'11'' 298 22 B C C- A B- D
Absimov Hoyt PG 6'2'' 191 20 C- B B+ B+ D+ C
Bryant Reeves C 7'0'' 290 22 B D- D+ B- B- B
Gary Trent PF 6'8'' 250 21 B- C- B- C C+ A
Steve Griffin SF 6'10'' 244 22 B- C+ C B- C- C
by Zyme, LA Times
Mock Draft:
1. Kevin Garnett 6'11 HS SR PF B C+ C B- B- A
2. Antonio McDyess 6'9 220 PF SO B C C- B B- B
3. Joe Smith 6'10 225 SO PF B C C C+ B- A
4. Jerry Stackhouse 6'6 218 SO SG B- C+ C B- C A
5. Michael Finley 6'7 215 SR SF B- C C+ B- C A
6. Yinka Dare 7'1 265 JR C C+ D- C- B- B- A
7. Bryant Reeves 7' 290 SR C B D- D+ B- B- B
8. Damon Stoudamire PG 5'10'' JR C- B+ B- C C- A
9. Brent Barry SG 6'6'' 185 SR C+ B- B- C+ C A
How it unfolded
1:Lakers—Kevin Garnett PF 6'11'' 220 17 B C+ C B- B- A
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scout's Take: Garnett is most likely the top pick in this draft. The fact that he transferred high schools to play in a much tougher league and still was flat out dominate makes scouts drool. He's been known to ball with the Bulls team and he does really well against that squad. Superstar player.
Our take: The Lakers struck gold with this one. They moved up to the second pick through the lottery from the 10th pick. They followed up this trick by moving up to the top spot by virtue of the Cavaliers vacating their top pick after violating league rules. This fills a huge role for them at the PF position and could be a seminal moment for this franchise.
2:Cavaliers—Vacated
Scouts Take: After not submitting their protections for the expansion draft, they were forced to vacate this pick. It would have become the 1st overall had they not violated these rules
Team Needs: PF, SF, SG
Our Take: This could set this franchise years. They could have had the #1 overall pick but are left with nothing. Only time will tell if they can recover from this setback.
3:Warriors—Jerry Stackhouse SG 6'6'' 218 20 B- C+ C B- C A
Team Needs: C/PF, PG, SG upgrade
Scouts Take: Scout's love the athletic ability from Stackhouse. He can fill the hoop and can then go and defend a team's best scorer. Scouts are not sure if he's top 3 material but he is easily top 5.
Our Take: And interesting pick. With Antonio McDyess and Joe Smith still on the board, this seemed a no brainer with their need for another post and total lack of a F/C rotation and they only seemed to only need an upgrade at the 2 spot. Seems like an overpick, but if he develops well this could be well worth it.
4:Bucks—Antonio McDyess PF 6'9'' 220 21 B C C- B B- B
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scouts Take: McDyess can jump through the roof and dunk with unmatched authority. Scout's are not sure if McDyess will enter the draft due to so many other clear cut number 1 picks and more importantly good big men. If he does come out, he will certainly be worth the pick at number one, that said he could easily fall to the bottom 10.
Our Take: A real need pick here. McDyess really fills a hole in the post and will fortify this young core for a long time. The Bucks had one of the best drafts, more to come on them...
5:Suns—Joe Smith PF 6'10'' 225 20 B C C C+ B- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts love Smith's potential as they feel he could be just as good as Chris Webber in last year's draft. Has a bit of an ego problem and there is also concern of a holdout if Smith isn't taken in the top 3. None the less Smith is warranted of the 1st pick.
Our Take: This was the start of a very active day for the suns. They both nuked their team and took on a lot of rookies this day. If he develops he could be a 3/4 combo of the future.
6:Raptors—Michael Finley SF 6'7'' 215 22 B- C C+ B- C A
Team Needs: PG, SF, C
Scouts Take: Scout's Take: Finley will be a multi-allstar but not a superstar player. Can pass the ball out of double teams and can create other shots at times. No doubt a top 15 player and should go top 10.
Our Take: The expansion raptors really couldn't go wrong. They took the top player still on the board and could provide some strong scoring in the future. This swingman could anchor this franchise for a long time.
7:Grizzlies—Brent Barry SG 6'6'' 218 20 B- C+ C B- C A
Team Needs: PG, SF
Scouts Take: Barry comes from a family that knows basketball. His dad was a star in the NBA and now Brent looks like he could be one with a few good years training. He will create for others and score when asked to but don't be surprised to see Barry pass on personal success for the better of the team. Lotto pick.
Our Take: Memphis, like their predecessor took the best player off the board despite team needs. Playing next to Dominique, Barry at the 3 spot seems like a great pickup.
8:Suns (From Trailblazers)—Damon Stoudamire PG 5'10'' 171 21 C- B+ B- C C- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts love Damon. He's a pure PG who can score outside. His defense is a tad of a concern but some GMs actually think he could be a good one down the road if a team can harness his speed on defense. Top 7 pick.
Our Take: Though small, this guard has the potential to be a realy contributer for years to come. At either the SG or PG position, he can contribute. He had a short move as Damon moves from Tucson to Phoenix. This pick cost the suns the Kings 1996, heat 98 1sts and Marcelo Nicola.
9:Suns (From Rockets)—Yinka Dare C 7'1'' 265 21 C+ D- C- B- B- A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scouts know for sure Dare has a good load of potential. Heck, right now you can't get any worse in production than he is with his athletic ability. Boom or bust pick here. Should go late lotto to mid first strictly because of the chance to become a good player.
Our Take: Another raw player that could contribute. Will help shore up their post rotation. An all upside player. He has the potential to be great, but never showed anything, if he develops great pick, a risk/reward pick at this point.
10:Suns—Ed O'Bannon SF 6'8'' 222 22 B- C+ C C+ C+ A
Team Needs: PF, SF
Scouts Take: Scout's feel like O'Bannon could be a special player if he can put it all together. He needs to improve his foot speed. His jumper is solid but could be better. None the less will be a top 10 pick and could compete for a few all star games.
Our Take: Again the suns traded up to get here. This time they traded Wilkens, Manning, Majerle In exchange for the #10 pick, Jalen Rose and a 96 first. He has all the tools to succeed, but questions about his work ethic have cropped up and many wonder if he has the drive.
11:Nets (From Bullets)—Corliss Williamson SF 6'7'' 245 20 C+ C D+ B- C A
Team Needs: PG, C
Scouts Take: Williamson has the body to be a great NBA player. A tweener between the SG and SF spots. His upside will be determined by how he can grow into his body. Decent finisher but his footwork will need some major attention. Lacks the rebounding of the 3 spot and lacks the mobility to stay with 2 guards.
Our Take: Odd move here. Danny Manning did not last long on the nets. He was proptly shipped off to the bullets and they selected Williamson. An all developmental pick that does not seem to have NBA quickness. Risk/Reward pick, not sure if this will end up as a fair trade.
12:Mavericks—Bryce Polynice C 6'11'' 298 22 B C C- A B- D
Team Needs: Upgrades at all positions.
Scouts Take: Bryce is a beast. He is maybe the most NBA ready player in the draft. He dominated the WAC with his energy and pure strength. While at one point he was a top 5 pick, he slid badly as it was revealed his knees looked like someone nearly twice his age. If he can hold himself together he could become a future all-star, but his longevity could be serious issues going forward.
Our Take: The Mavericks really didn't need a heck of a lot. They have solid youth at every position and just picked the best player on the board. Having Polynice is an absolute steal if he can keep himself healthy.
13:Knicks—Bob Sura PG 6'5'' 200 21 C B D+ C- C A
Team Needs: C, SF
Scouts Take: Sura is a lights out shooter. He has one of the best strokes from deep of anyone in this class. The knocks on Sura is the he does not have good ability to create his own shot and may struggle against quicker NBA guard. This is mitigated by his sheer size. The potential is there, he jsut needs to hit the gym and bring his game to the next level.
Our Take: Sura is player that could contribute right away for the Knicks. Coming in as the backup SG or PG, reasonably he could come in and make a couple of threes. A solid back and a borderline starter if he develops.
14:Spurs—Theo Ratliff C 6'10'' 225 21 C+ F+ C- B B B
Team Needs: C, PF
Scouts Take: Theo could be a real asset on the defensive side of the ball. He is nearly NBA ready for both rebounding and defending in the post. Only thing that Theo lacks is the offensive side of the game. He has no jump shot to speak of and will likely only score on putbacks. Toughness defines Theo and his motor is hard to question.
Our Take: The Spurs needed an anchor, they got one. They can slot Theo in every night and pound the boards and defend the post. Though he may never hit 12ppg, he can rebound with the best and 10/12/2-3blks is not out o the question. Great need pick here.
15:Lakers (From Mavericks)—Absimov Hoyt PG 6'2'' 191 20 C- B B+ B+ D+ C
Team Needs: PG, PF
Scouts Take: Hoyt is the second most NBA ready player in this draft next to Polynice. He can take care of the ball, pass, and can defend right away. His ability to finish inside makes scouts question how much of a scorer he can become but all the other tools are there.
Our Take: A real need pick here. The Lakers traded both their picks for next year in order to get this pick. Seems the hope is he can either start or play backup for whomever they can get. If he develops, he could be a real steal.
16:Timberwolves (From Heat)—Bryant Reeves C 7'0'' 290 22 B D- D+ B- B- B
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Reeves could have a very good career if he's put into a good system and surrounded by other good players. Certainly can rely on him to be the muscle of your team. His battle of his weight will always be a concern. None the less his career at Oklahoma State should allow him to be a top 10 pick.
Our Take: Big Country has fallen into a good situation. He fell a little but at 16 he got picked by a team that had a need at the backup post position. He is a situation where can can develop his skills under veteran Willis.
17:Timberwolves—Gage Reeves SG 6'2'' 196 18 C+ C C B C- A
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Gage Reeves, no relation to Bryant Reeves, is an all upside player. He is very raw at this point, but his defense is solid. He has the tools to be a serviceable defender at both the SG and PG positions. Will nave no immediate impact but if his potential holds, he will reward a patient team.
Our Take: Following Garnett's example, he skipped out on college to got straight to the pros. Risk/Reward pick that will be one to watch. Though raw, he has the potential to be a lock down defender.
18:Jazz (From Kings)—Eric Williams SF 6'8'' 220 22 C+ C D+ B- C+ A
Team Needs:SF
Scouts Take: Scouts look at Williams like they did Lamond Murray of the lakers. They can shoot, but have trouble making opening for their shots. He has the ability do defend and has a NBA body at 6'8", filling in this fram will be what determines what kind of career this player has.
Our Take: He fills a need. At this point in the drat, really that is all you can hope to do. Good pickup for the Jazz but I am unsure if he is not a 1 contract and out player.
19:Bucks (From Pistons)—Eric Snow PG 6'3'' 190 22 C C+ B B C B
Team Needs: PF, PG
Scouts Take: Snow has the tools to be a great point guard in this draft. He has a decent stroke from outside. Scouts are interested over his combo of PG skills and his potential.
Our Take: Great Need pick again by the bucks. They addressed every need their team had and look to have a solid core of youth going forward. I really like their draft and what they have done with the picks they had.
20:Cavs (From Celtics)—Earvin Iba SF 6'9'' 245 21 C+ C C- C+ C A
Team Needs:SG, SF, PF
Scouts Take: Iba comes with an NBA ready body. He skills are not as polished as scouts would hope for but he can finish at the rim and defend a little. He is still young and the work ethic to fill in his frame.
Our Take: Iba is a need pick here. The cavaliers need a lot of help on the wings. Iba, though raw, may even start for them. If his potential holds or he bulks up in the gym he could become a decent contributer as a swingman or a post player.
21:Suns—Kurt Thomas PF 6'9'' 230 21 C C C C+ B A
Team Needs:PF, SF
Scouts Take: Kurt has the toughness to be a NBA player. He out works players for position well. He lacks a post game, however, but he has time to work on that. Can be an immidate contributer in a post rotation on many teams.
Our Take: Another solid pickup for the Suns. They took a player that will help them get toughter on the boards and help defend many backup posts in this league.
22:Celtics (From Supersonics via Lakers)—Gary Trent PF 6'8'' 250 21 B- C- B- C C+ A
Team Needs: Backups and role players
Scouts Take: Trent played a lot of PF in college and was able to score by simply using his speed to blow by inferior competition. Projected as a 4 or 3. Has a decent inside game but his jumpshot fails him at times.
Our Take: For the Celtics, their historical rivals took him before they could. This forced them to trade up and cost them a 2nd round pick (Mathew DeBernardi PG 6'2'' 185 23 C B- B- B D C). This happened to be their own 2nd back ant took a long time to come full circle:Lakers->Supersonics->Timberwolves->Celtics->Lakers. Could be a solid late first addition.
23:Lakers (From Bulls via Celtics)—Travis Best PG 5'11'' 182 22 C C+ C+ C C A
Team Needs: PG, PF
Scouts Take: Best is a little short to be an NBA PG, but he has the skillset your are looking for in a PG. He has the potential to be a future backup or borderline starter. Needs to develop skillset or will be out of the NBA in 3-4 years.
Our Take: Another need pick here. The lakers seem to be trying find a point guard as best they can. They choose best for his potential, hopefully he can live up to it.
24:Cavs (From Magic)—Preston Voskuhl SF 6'10'' 210 20 C C C C- C- A
Team Needs: PG, SG, SF
Scouts Take: Voshuhl is a enigma. He showed some flashes and has an NBA frame, but he has never lived up to his potential. If his body can fill in where his skills lack, he could become a decent pro.
Our Take: He is raw. This wil help the cavs wing rotation but it is questionable if he will ever be able to even backup at the NBA level. Risk/Reward pick.
25:Cavs (From 76ers)—Shawun Respert SG 6'1'' 185 22 C B C C C A
Team Needs:PG, SG, SF
Scouts Take: Shawun is a gunner. He has a good stroke form outside. He has a decent first move and can get up shots versus most college defenders. A little short to play SG. He could thrive in an uptempo system which would hide his underwhelming defensive abilities.
Our Take: Good pickup this late in the 1st, they needed a shooter at the 2 spot and he could become a decent backup if he can improve his shooting, defense, or both.
26:Nuggets—Vacated
Team Needs: Backup PG, SF
Scouts Take: After not submitting their protections for the expansion draft, they were forced to vacate this pick.
Our Take: The nuggets really didn't have a whole lot they needed, so this pick will be no great loss.
27:Jazz—Manuel Lister SG 6'2'' 197 20 C B- C+ C- C A
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Manuel can play both guard positions. He has a decent shot and his first step is quick enough to get it off, but his size may limit his effectiveness. Moving him to PG and hoping his handles develop may be a good option if the team does not have need at SG
Our Take: The jazz really couldn't go wrong here. They have a lot of pieces already and adressed their need at SF with their last pick. Drafting for potential here. Decent pickup here at the end of the 1st
28:Hornets—Greg Ostertag C 7'2'' 280 22 C C- C B- B- B
Team Needs: SF
Scouts Take: Ostertag has size on his side. He uses this effectively to position for rebounds. May struggle with quicker centers. Good lateral quickness for his size. Point may be telegated to putbacks
Our Take: He may not score but he has both the quickness and the size to defend in the NBA. Looks like a solid pickup that will help the hornets solidify their post rotation.
29:Mavericks (From Pacers)—Steve Griffin SF 6'10'' 244 22 B- C+ C B- C- C
Team Needs: Upgrades at all positions
Scouts Take: Griffin is a player that can both finish and has a decent jumpshot from about 15ft out. He has the size and quickeness to defend post players in the NBA but scouts question his work ethic. This may cause him to slide on some board and limit his potential
Our Take: Very good pickup at the end of the 1st. He may not show much potential right now but if he focuses himself he could surprise quite a few people.
Steals/Players to look out for
Joe Smith...Wow, that kind of player at 5 is amazing
Bryce Polynice...Most NBA ready player falling into the Mavs lap at 12 is awesome for them. If his knees hold up he could be the steal of the draft
Absimov Hoyt...Could turn into a great pro, but his potential concerns many.
Bryant Reeves...great mid-1st pickup for the Wolves. Big country cometh!
Winners/Losers
Winners
Lakers: Moving from 10 to #1 says it all. On top of that, they filled out their draft with PG prospects.
Suns: How many top picks do you need. They sold the farm, but got back a boat of young prospects. 4 1st in the top 10.
Bucks: They addressed their need with solid player and have had another great draft. McDyess should anchor them for years to come.
Losers
Cavs: They lost out and vacated a pick that would have give them the top pick in the draft. They picks some decent prospects, but losing out on the top pick for violation league of rules could set them way back
Warriors:Stackhouse at the 2nd overall pick...really? They now have 8 guard and only one player guarding the post. Seems like a reach on top of that but this will be interesting to watch if they missed out on a real opportunity to draft to fortify their empty frontcourt.
Most active
Suns: 4 picks in the to 10, 3 acquired on draft day
Lakers: Trading up for the 15 and trading down for a 2nd and Best.
This year's gem?
Bryce Polynice C 6'11'' 298 22 B C C- A B- D
Absimov Hoyt PG 6'2'' 191 20 C- B B+ B+ D+ C
Bryant Reeves C 7'0'' 290 22 B D- D+ B- B- B
Gary Trent PF 6'8'' 250 21 B- C- B- C C+ A
Steve Griffin SF 6'10'' 244 22 B- C+ C B- C- C
