with rose going head to head with mayo tonight, and beasly playing in the prelude, seems like a relevent question.

as far as i know, those are the three front runners. they all need work, obviously, but i really like rose's athleticism.

what about eric gordon?

derrick rose is an athletic freak but the #1 spot is still iffy

It's Beasly. Seriously.

You never know with Rose. Scouts seem to love POTENTIAL these days.

It's Beasly. Seriously.
You know what's funny? I feel like people don't know who he is because he goes to KSU. People talk about how great Gordon, Rose and Mayo are all the time, but then I mention Beasly and they have no idea what I'm talking about.

Beasly is a beast. He'll go #1 as long as he doesn't get hurt. A big PF is more valuable.

If I watched college basketball I'd tell you...

I have a feeling we won't know this until the sweet 16 or so.

Beasley is the early favorite, but none of these guys are really blowing anyone away with LeBron/Howard/Oden potential.

i tell you waht, rose has game coming out of his ears.

i get why people like beasly better,

but rose creates for himself, others, is good at steals but also plays phenomenal man D. hes got great size for a pg. unbelievable athlete. plus he has a calm demeanor but you can also tell how competetive he is.

he also has a chance of never losing a college gaem.

i would not want to be the guy who passe on rose. i think hes too good to pass on.

Beasley had 44 and 13 today.

a lot could depend on who is drafting. but i agree that it is looking like it'll be between beasley and rose.

i've seen both players a few times this year and the more i see them the more i like them.

I would want Michael Beasley. The guy is a flat out stud. He's already set the frosh record for double-doubles in a season, and has stud written all over him.

O.J. Mayo is absolute fucking trash. He's a wannabe streetballer me 1st PG who chucks up horrible shots and makes bad decisions on the court. Can't even run an offense.

There aren't any super dynamic players going in the draft this year, but I'd roll with Beastly. A more athletic Big Dog.

from what i've seen of mayo, i tend to agree. and to be honest, pretty pleased about it, too.

kid seems to have an ultra inflated ego and easy to root against. im glad joe would never touch a guy like that.

i'll concede that beasly is going #1, im just saying i'd be pretty damn happy with the #2 pick.

Dwyane Wade is absolute fucking trash. He's a wannabe streetballer me 1st PG who chucks up horrible shots and makes bad decisions on the court..
:) [smilie=heatsmiley2:

There aren't any super dynamic players going in the draft this year, but I'd roll with Beastly. A more athletic Big Dog.

I think that you could make a very good argument that beasley has been better than durant and anthony were as freshmen. He shoots 55% as the primary option. Glenn Robinson could have been great, but he was just lazy. It is hard to project attitude, but beasley has as much talent as anyone I've seen in college. (I am not a huge college bball fan though)

who also, allegedly, has an attitude problem.

i saw part of the memphis vs not a very good team game yesterday.

rose pulled a tayshaun and caught a breakaway layup and blocket it from no where.

other team got the board and had an open dunk.

rose positioned himself for the charge and the guy blew the dunk.

rose then got the ball, ran it down the court, and got an assist on a 3.

cerebral would be an understatement. beasly is by far the better physical prospect, but i would not regret taking rose over him, i know that. if he lands on the knicks, i GUARANTEE they make the playoffs next year. he is exactly what that team needs.

Beasley vs. Mayo in Round 1 should be fun

Michael Beasley reminds me of Shawn Marion.

OJ Mayo reminds me of a cross between Roger Mason and Quinton Ross.

That's exactly what I'd want my top pick compared to....

rose looks pretty good against the spartans...

nbadraft.net does not have dave padgett from louisville getting drafted. i would take him at the end of the draft over likely whoever else we would take (read: sheldon meija). then again, i also liked pittsnogle, so maybe i just like white stiffs.

I wonder what kind of pro Brook Lopez will be?

I don't know, but if I ever have awkward twins that are 6'9" or taller, you can bet they're going to Stanford.



alsoscrewjimharbaugh

Are there any current brother combos in the NBA that did NOT attend Stanford? I'm actually surprised there aren't more siblings in the NBA. How does one person from the family get to be that good and no one else does?

I don't know, but if I ever have awkward twins that are 6'9" or taller, you can bet they're going to Stanford.



alsoscrewjimharbaugh

Are there any current brother combos in the NBA that did NOT attend Stanford? I'm actually surprised there aren't more siblings in the NBA. How does one person from the family get to be that good and no one else does?

The Hayes boys went to Georgia, right?

that's a bit more info that i needed to know. ;o)



rose looks pretty good against the spartans...

nbadraft.net does not have dave padgett from louisville getting drafted. i would take him at the end of the draft over likely whoever else we would take (read: sheldon meija). then again, i also liked pittsnogle, so maybe i just like white stiffs.

rose is an incredible talent. beasley is too but personally i would take rose over him right now. that's not likely to happen because of the whole philosophy of taking a big man over a PG.

but with today's game i think i would take rose and not look back. crazy as it may sound, i think he can impact a game more than beasley. not that beasley is any kind of slouch as i think he's a great prospect himself. but i think rose is just THAT good.

the more i see of rose, the better he looks. i would say his 2 best strengths are intelligence and defense. im not sure there is a good nba comparison. hes a coach's dream.

This is going to be a really good draft, IMO.

The first 10 picks or so, at least.

Stephen Curry decided he's staying at Davidson another year.

I think that's pretty shocking. His draft stock can't go up much more than now, can it? I think it's a good decision, because I'm not sure he's quick enough to be in the NBA.

However I have never seen a better college shooter than him before. I was actually surprised when he missed any shot.

However I have never seen a better college shooter than him before.

What about Redick?


I liked the fact that when he was missing shots he kept shooting. You see too many guys who get discouraged when their shots aren't falling and they take themselves out of the game completely.

I thought about JJ, but Curry is more creative than him. Reddick was a hell of a shooter, but I actually thought Curry was better. When teams doubled JJ, he couldn't score. Curry still had 25 when they had two (sometimes 3) players on him.

Stephen Curry decided he's staying at Davidson another year.

I think that's pretty shocking. His draft stock can't go up much more than now, can it? I think it's a good decision, because I'm not sure he's quick enough to be in the NBA.

However I have never seen a better college shooter than him before. I was actually surprised when he missed any shot.

This sounds like a bad move.

He's not going to improve his game much, if at all, IMO.

Sounds like he's taking a calculated risk that next year's draft class will be weaker and he'll get selected higher.

He might make more $ for his first contract, but I doubt that he'll make up for the whole year of lost salary and shortening his NBA career by a year. You simply have to get that career clock ticking ASAP when you are a 1st round pick.

Hopefully, this isn't because of something stupid like, "he really likes college".

I don't know if it's that bad of a move. Let's be honest, I don't think money is really a problem for Dell Curry's son. He got a ton of attention in the tournament this year, but that's only 4 games. Had you heard of him before March 21st?

He'll have a year of the media following him around, seeing how he's doing. Even if Davidson doesn't get better (losing Richards and that forward), he'll still be remembered for single handedly taking this team to the Elite 8. Why not try to do it again? As I said, money isn't a problem, but fame could be.

Money is always important, IMO.

Sounds shallow, but it's true.

You've got a limited window to make that NBA cash, you need to get it rolling.

I like Rose @ 1, but we'll see...

The Lopez twins are going pro.

:chad:

Updated list of who is in/out
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=InOut

Hansbrough getting the manlove.


I haven't seen a guy play every possession like that in a long time," Louisville's Rick Pitino said Saturday in his news conference after losing to North Carolina. "I've never seen it, actually."


"I've coached against Michael (Jordan) in his prime, (Charles) Barkley in his prime, Kareem when he left," Pitino said after Hansbrough scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in North Carolina's 83-73 victory in the East Regional final Saturday night. "Magic, all the great ones. Certainly he doesn't have those abilities of those superstars. But just like shooting, rebounding and playing defense, passing, working hard is an acquired skill.

"Every NBA coach would love to have a player, not only because he works hard but he has a lot of talent. There's an old saying about offensive rebounding, that you should treat every shot as a pass to you. It's a very good saying, except most players can't do that. He does that."

So if he drops to us, who would be against taking a flier on an energy guy who rebounds well? Depending on who else is on the board, I wouldn't mind grabbing someone like that. At that late of a pick, you're not getting a superstar.

So if he drops to us, who would be against taking a flier on an energy guy who rebounds well? Depending on who else is on the board, I wouldn't mind grabbing someone like that. At that late of a pick, you're not getting a superstar.

Trouble is, he's a scrappy PF. We have them coming out our ears. I like the kid, just not on our present roster.

NBADraft.net currently has Brandon Rush going at the beginning of the 2nd round. I'm pretty sure he'll end up somewhere in the middle of the first, but if he were to slip, how would you feel about taking him with our late 1st round pick and having him play the backup role to Tayshaun next year?

What about someone like Douglas-Roberts from Memphis? He's a Michigan kid, no?

Joe really likes Rush. I think they would have considered him with the Afflalo pick last year if Rush hadn't pulled out of the draft.

Maybe if we're afraid of him going to early we can trade up to get him using our 1st and that Minny 2nd. I'd be happy to see him come in and take over that backup SF role. He would split time with Afflalo backing up SG too.

How about we draft a stuckey clone:

http://nbadraft.net/admincp/profiles/lesterhudson.html

Chalmers might be a great fit if he's there. He's a ball hawk defender at PG and might compliment Stuckey well off the bench.

I like Rush too. He's a solid all around player that rebounds well too (2nd on his team).

Brandon Rush would be the ideal pick, given that SF is our last real glaring depth concern.

If he gets picked, though, Joe probably is forced to go BPA.

The Pistons aren't getting any of these players, I don't give a fuck.
And even if they could, Joe would draft some 7 foot retard from Glubealchistania.

i think many teams would take rose #1 now. he has no flaws.

i like zekyl's idea of the douglas-roberts. kid is a natural. reminds me some of mo pete, put with less focus on outside shooting. he could use some work, but i think he could play on our team.

nbadraft.net has put derrik rose #1 overall.

Amazing what going deep in the tourney can do for you. Rush is up to #17 on nbadraft.net. Not much chance we'll get him now. Douglas-Roberts is up to 18th. Maybe package those two picks and trade up for someone like Earl Clark?

If tyler hansbrough doesnt get much press, i'd love for him to slip to us. I think the kid has some nice skill.

He's a great energy/rebounder type. Some guys say they don't want us to take him because we already have Max and Amir. I'd say that's a good problem to have.

he's better scorer than both guys. I wonder if he can be coverted to SF ala battier? maybe not.

Does he have the quickness for it?

Does he have the quickness for it?
probably not. Just wishful thinking. He plays like a flat footed PF.

actually never mind, he drives better than i thought.

htwkRYa0gOk

You've got to take into account the competition in that one too.

If tyler hansbrough doesnt get much press, i'd love for him to slip to us. I think the kid has some nice skill.

Where have you been?

Ante Tomic (http://www.nbadraft.net/admincp/profiles/antetomic.html) - A guy we could possibly draft and leave overseas for a year late in the first?

Where have you been?
away from college basketball for years.

i love hansborough's heart and intensity. but there's NO WAY he could ever play SF in the nba. and he has nothing on amir and j-max. it would make no sense to take him IMO.

not to mention that i just don't think he has it in him to be much of anything in the nba. if he's getting his shots tossed at the collegiate level, how will he fare against much bigger, stronger, and more athletic nba power forwards and centers?

the way kansas attacked hansborough made me believe he'll never be more than a small time role player for a good team. of course, i'd have said the same of luke walton.

the season is over and lottery seedings are out.

portland got the hot 13 seed. what a line would oden / aldridge / beasly be?

more realistically, what if memphis gets #2 and beasley is drafted #1? rose would have to go #2, but what do you do with rose and conley? i like them both alot, but not together. could be a blockbuster in memphis. maybe the reunion of oden and conley? i could see memphis giving him away for a song and a dance, such as channing frye and change. or trade him to another lottery team this year and have 2 high picks...

I just figured we should have a thread to discuss the possible outcomes of the lottery. Not quite the same as the Draft thread, as that pertains to everyone.

Also, I just wanted to have a reason to have LOLHEAT in a thread title.



[smilie=heatsmiley2: [smilie=heatsmiley2: [smilie=heatsmiley2: [smilie=heatsmiley2:

25% chance.

Good work, Zek. WTF is lucky to have you.

ZEK 4 MVP!

Who do you put with Wade? What would be a good compliment to him? He plays ball like Mohammed Atta. If I'm a GM, I'm not sure what I draft to go with that.

Beasley.

Beasley Reece.

You've gotta get him a big man, I'd think. You can't really take a PG to go with him because he ends up with the ball in his hands most of the time anyway. You almost have to go with Beasley. If he's gone when they pick, Lopez maybe? Mayo wouldn't fit them and neither would Rose, I wouldn't think.

Mayo definitely wouldn't. Beasley is THE guy for Wa...I mean, the Heat.

No need to worry, Riley's been scouting.

Yeah, they have to take Beasley if he's there. I'd try and pry Brand from LA and let Marion walk if I'm Miami. If not, Marion and Beasley would be a great forward combination.

No need to worry, Riley's been scouting.
http://www.cse.buffalo.edu/~burrows3/roflcopter.jpg

My guess (educated, of course!) is that Rose goes to the Sonics if the Heat get the #1 and Oklahoma City gets the #2.

Rose and Durant could be a reason to at least watch them play if you're a Sonics fan.

This thread is starting to resemble this thread (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBGIQ7ZuuiU).

You can't really get someone to work with Wade. He doesn't work "with" anyone, when you get right down to it. You need to draft someone to work "adjacent to" Wade. Someone who can handle the ball on the rare occasions when he doesn't, i.e. someone with an outside shot.

Perfect fit then.

Beasley's got the range.

My guess (educated, of course!) is that Rose goes to the Sonics if the Heat get the #1 and Oklahoma City gets the #2.

Rose and Durant could be a reason to at least watch them play if you're a Sonics fan.
EXCUSE ME, but I think you got one of the teams wrong in there.

Come one SDB, get on your fucking game! *sigh*









Its the Oklahoma City SUPERsonics!

That's why I say Beasley. He seems like he'd do all the little things like Marion does now.

lol, I like this new Zekyl. What happened to the old, lame ass one?

And when they need an easy bucket or two they could just throw it to Beasley down low, so it's not like the burden would be entirely on Wade's shoulders.

So if they draft Beasley, do they not bring Marion back (assuming he opts out)?

So if they draft Beasley, do they not bring Marion back (assuming he opts out)?

I would sign Brand if you can. If not you can bring Marion back, but I'd rather add a true center. Suppose the Heat get hosed by the lottery and slid a couple picks down. You might take Lopez and keep Marion.

I'm pretty much done LOLing at the Heat for now.

I'd rather LOL @ Steve Kerr

Why are you LOLing at him? His team is in the playoffs against the DONE. I mean.......the Spurs.

The Heat got bailed out by Kerr.

We've been over this.

Heat gonna have lots of room in the coming years.

Very true, they got out from under that shitty contract, but it seems to be working for his team (although they'd probably be better off with Marion right now).

They've got Ricky Davis and Jason Williams coming off too, I believe.

Who will be the idiot that signs Davis next? He wouldn't be a bad player if it wasn't for his shitty attitude.

Well, if I was forced to sign either one of them, I'd take Davis over Williams.

YOU AIN'T GONNA DO NOTHIN', HOMEBOY!

Unfortunately I don't think the Knicks will sign him. They would have had they not hired Donnie Walsh...

He'd be a shoe in for the Knicks if this were last year. And probably 4-5 million dollars overpaid

Here's a valuable article for this thread.

http://www.theonion.com/content/infograph/biggest_busts_in_nba_draft

As the NBA Draft approaches, Onion Sports looks at some of the historic mistakes teams have made picking new talent:

1891: James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, picks Joey Farnath to play center on the red team, as he is not yet aware how great a disadvantage being 4'5" will prove in the new game

1966: After observing the vast breadth and depth of his basketball knowledge, the New York Knicks just assume that Marv Albert will be able to play

1984: Michael Jordan is selected third overall, but never lives up to expectations, batting .202 with 50 career RBI

1989: With the second overall pick, the Boston Celtics select Len Bias instead of someone who is not going to die

1993: The Washington Bullets are disappointed when their second-round pick, the 7'7" Croation Gheorghe Muresan who doesn't know how to play basketball, performs like he doesn't know how to play basketball

1994: Grant Hill is selected third overall by the Detroit Pistons and breaks both wrists while holding up his new team's jersey

2001: Kwame Brown turns out to be a bust, though, with his height, cornrows, and frame, Washington Wizards scouts and management still contend that he "really looks like a good basketball player"

2003: LeBron James is selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in what would become one of the greatest busts in NBA history, not for the Cavaliers, but for James

Hansbrough returning to UNC; Ellington, Lawson enter draft (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/news/story?id=3367846)

Hansbrough apparently likes to jump off the roofs of frat houses.

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/9395/79423251cj9.jpg

http://i31.tinypic.com/ruwthl.jpg

Looks more like he's jumping off a balcony than a roof.

You were there and you don't know?

Ford on who is might go #1
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=DraftWatch-080512&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba %2fdraft2008%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumni st%3dford_chad%26page%3dDraftWatch-080512

Here's the annual lottery simulator combined with Ford's mock draft.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/lottery2008/mockdraft

Not nearly as fun without the Pistons involved, I guess we'll just have to settle for playoff wins.

I still like Rush at our pick (hope he's there).

Agreed with Chris, but I'm seriously doubting he'll be there after his tourney performance. IIRC he was pretty solid.

most rankings I've seen have him in the mid 20's. I wouldn't mind giving up a 2nd rounder to move up for him (we still have Minny's next year).

(we still have Minny's next year).


Are you sure?

Is anyone sure with that pick?

Are you sure?
They have the option of giving it to us this year, but they won't with how high it is.

EDIT- here are the picks owed to us:


2008 second round draft pick from Minnesota
Minnesota's own 2008 2nd round pick to Detroit, provided that Minnesota shall have the option to defer the conveyance by one year if it notifies Detroit and the League Office 30 days prior to the 2008 Draft. If Minnesota elects to defer, then it shall trade its own 2009 2nd round pick to Detroit [Detroit - Minnesota, 10/31/2005]

2009 second round draft pick from Toronto
Toronto's own 2009 2nd round pick to Detroit [Detroit - Toronto, 6/15/2007]

2011 second round draft pick from Toronto
Toronto's own 2011 2nd round pick to Detroit [Detroit - Toronto, 6/15/2007]

I still like Rush at our pick (hope he's there).

The thing I love about our pick is that assuming he makes our regular season roster, and not NBDL, the directive this past season to get the bench involved worked well enough that this year's pick is almost a lock to get some decent minutes and actually develop, unlike many we've seen come and go.

Between Valter, Dixon, Lindsey and Hayes there will be available minutes. Who knows, maybe we'll even see some extended time for Samb this upcoming season.

Either way, our pick almost has to be a SF, doesn't it? Considering where the available minutes are coming from. Some of those guys may resign but I just have to believe the pick will be the best available SF, unless a solid big slips to us - since Sheed and Dyess aren't getting any younger.

The only way it isn't a SF is a major trade. Otherwise I can't see any other position being drafted. They won't take a PG because they feel Stuckey can play there. They won't take a center because they have to think that Amir can play there (plus you rarely get a decent center that low). Barring a major trade I think we finally get a backup for Tay. One that can rebound and play defense in addition to scoring I hope.

I'm hoping next year we'll try and find a PG with our pick (or Minny's 2nd) that can sit a couple years and be ready (to pair with Stuckey) when Billups breaks down.

That makes what, 5 years now that we've headed into the draft needing a backup for Tay?

That makes what, 5 years now that we've headed into the draft needing a backup for Tay?

yes, but we've also needed bigs and a backup PG for a long time. In fact, almost every bench position was a need before Max solidified backup PF. We have Darko, White and Delfino to thank for our lack of depth.

yes, but we've also needed bigs and a backup PG for a long time. In fact, almost every bench position was a need before Max solidified backup PF. We have Darko, White and Delfino to thank for our lack of depth.
You forgot Arroyo

We didn't draft Arroyo.

We gave up a 1st for Arroyo.

NETS INVESTOR SHAWN “JAY-Z” CARTER TO REPRESENT THE NETS AT NBA DRAFT LOTTERY TOMORROW

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Nets investor and music executive Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter will represent the Nets at the NBA Draft Lottery tomorrow, Tuesday, May 20, at the studios of NBA Entertainment in Secaucus, NJ. The Draft Lottery will be televised live on ESPN from 8 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons.

Carter will be one of 14 team representatives to be seated on the stage when NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver announces the winning order of teams participating in the Draft Lottery. The NBA Draft will be held on June 26.

“This is very exciting and I hope my nickname ‘Lucky Lefty’ holds up,” said Carter.

In the Draft Lottery for the first time since 2001, the Nets have a 1.1 percent chance of receiving the first pick of the Draft, and less than a 4 percent chance of securing one of the top 3 selections. Based on their 2007-08 season record, the Nets would likely have the 10th pick of the Draft if they don’t secure a top 3 selection.

I'm not sure I've ever cared less about the lotto than right now. No clear cut #1, Mayo's scandle taints it somewhat, no playoff teams getting lotto picks. The only reason I might watch is to see the heat get the #4 pick.

There are rumors about the Nets trading RJ and some sort of package (including a pick or two) for Melo.

yuck.....on both ends

There are rumors about the Nets trading RJ and some sort of package (including a pick or two) for Melo.

They talked about trading Melo on the radio here this morning. I only heard a minute of it where they talked about how Melo is their only commodity. It's true. Camby and or AI will not bring you enough to make them a contender.

the top 2 picks will be very interesting. Don't care a ton about the rest.

The only reason I might watch is to see the heat get the #4 pick.

There it is, right there.

Bulls score big

Wow, the Bulls...

It was fixed.

FROZEN ENVELOPE

and a Sniper in the back row

have you guys been reading the tim daugnaghy headlines, he says players and coaches are involved in fixing

I wonder what the bulls might try to do with that pick.

they could take rose and ship off hughes/hinrich/duhon. isnt hughes an expiring..or next season? they'd prolly trade for the post presence beasley wouldve gave them.

theyre in a interesting situation with gordon and deng being fa's too.

Getting the number one could save the mess they just put themselves into.

I think they have to take Rose. PG is harder to fill than PF, and thus easier to trade away. Duhon is a UFA and Gordon is a RFA. I would resign Deng and try and move Gordon (S&T) for a more spot up true SG. Hinrich can continue to start until Rose is ready to take over.

LOL@ Mike D'Antoni

Want a do-over?

Gotta find a taker for Hinrich if you take Rose, too much $ tied up at PG and not enough minutes to justify paying them both.

Or take Beasley and get the post scorer that you've needed for years.

Except then what do you do with Noah and Thomas?

If you move Hinrich, do you resign Gordon? If so, then you have Gordon and Hughes making a lot of jack as combo guards (and neither is a decent PG to back up Rose). I'd rather move Gordon or Hughes (doubt you can move him) to keep a true PG (and solid defender) to compliment Rose's scoring ability.

basically the bulls are going to have to replace their former draft picks with new ones again. Because thats pretty much where they are at.

I've never watched many Bulls game honestly........can Hinrich play the 2 at all or is it simply a ballhandler that is stuck playing the 1?

I've never watched many Bulls game honestly........can Hinrich play the 2 at all or is it simply a ballhandler that is stuck playing the 1?

He guards a lot of the two's now (depends on matchups) because Gordon can't play defense. I don't think you'd want Rose and Hinrich as your two guard starters though. You'd be better off with one off the bench and them playing together some of the time.

Current predictions:

ESPN - Chris Douglas-Roberts - Sounds good to me, I would definitely be ok with this pick. It potentially gives us a solid scoring backup for Tay.

SI - Ty Lawson - Really? Do we need another point guard? The only way I want them taking Lawson is if its a Best Player Available pick and he's far and away the best left on the board. Otherwise that just takes away from Stuckey's development.

NBADraft.net/Fox Sports - Davon Jefferson - I don't know much about him. He supposedly has amazing athleticism and a lot of potential to go with a solid shot, but needs work on his defense.

Ya I saw the CDR projection by ESPN, I think that would be a great pick. A guy who can shoot and create his own shot, might finally be the right guy to back Tay up. The reason I'd be against it would be the log jam at that 2/3 spot...I'd like Bill Walker out of K-State, I believe he would be there at our pick, he would be an awesome physical presence to have behind Tay.

I want a backup to Tay. CDR would be a great fit. I wouldn't mind Ty Lawson, but I would rather wait to get a backup PG next year (we need someone to replace Hunter and develop for when Stuckey takes over for Billups).

I don't want CDR. He has a neck tattoo.

I'm still hoping for Rush.

I think it's safe to say that we could Expect Great. things from either of those two.

I want Brandon Rush as well, I think he's a perfect Piston. He's a great defender and an ideal backup for Tay.

If he's gone, which I would expect, how about homeboy Chris Douglas-Roberts...

he can score, unlike say, anybody else on our bench (minus Stuck)

Also, quick question for anybody who can answer it. Since Greg Oden didn't play this year, will he technically be a rookie next year (as in eligible to win ROY)?? So in the frosh/sophomores game during the ASB, he will be on the rookie team??

I'm still hoping for Rush.

top 20 pick unfortunately...but id take bill walker out of kstate. dude was a stud in highschool, no idea what happened since then

I would give up a future 2nd to get Rush if need be. I think he's a complete player that complement Stuckey well (good defender and rebounder, can handle the ball and play the 2/3 positions). Instead of being a chucker (like Hayes, Evans, Flip and almost every other backup wing we've had), he wouldn't be a liability out there defensively.

Walker would be a good pick too. Ford says he was a top 5 pick before an ACL injury (3rd one). Now he's back in shape apparently but stock is lower because of the injuries.

I wonder if Joe is considering Batum at all. We'd have to bring back Valter or find another backup 3 for a year though.

If I am Chicago, I am taking Rose and looking to unload Hinrich this off-season, and Hughes next off-seaon, Hinrich still has some value right now and he is locked up long term. Meanwhile, next year you start Rose and Hughes and continue to bring Gordon off the bench. After next year, Hughes has a $13 million expiring deal.

As far as who you trade for, obviously it's for a post presence if possible.
You have two decent young energy PFs in Noah and Thomas, as well as Gooden, you have to be looking for the fourth big man, a starting center.

According to hoopshype, Duhon is a free agent this year (let him walk), and next year both Deng and Gordon are restricted. Personally, I think if it comes down to one of the other, you keep Deng, but keeping both would be better.

As for the Pistons, they have yet to pick anyone I predicted outside of the number two overall , so I'll leave that to you guys, other than to say that I think a guard is out, and I hope they'll go for a big guy with a little post game.

With two young guards already on our roster, I just don't get the idea of taking Lawson. If you want to develop Stuckey as your primary backup to Billups, when would Lawson even get to play?

Nice to see you again, IMK.

With two young guards already on our roster, I just don't get the idea of taking Lawson. If you want to develop Stuckey as your primary backup to Billups, when would Lawson even get to play?

Lawson would play less for us than that one hockey player you thought played for a team he never played for.

If I knew the name of said player and the team, it would've been a lot funnier.

Patrick Roy, Oilers (instead of Montreal)

And Chris, I think Batum will be gone long before we pick just based on his "potential", but I'd love to get him.

I think we'll take whomever Coach Curry likes best as a SF.

How about that Greek dude, Binariopolous?

I hate you Glenn.

Kidding of course, but that's the first "coach Curry" drop of anyone I think and it certainly doesn't make me more fond of you.

What's Greek for Binary Man?

Joe gave permission to Porter to talk to the Suns but refused to give Curry permission to talk to the Bulls.

What do you make of that?

What's Greek for Binary Man?

Late.

Nothing good.

Joe gave permission to Porter to talk to the Suns but refused to give Curry permission to talk to the Bulls.

What do you make of that?

Never help someone in your division?

You wish.

John Hammond.

With two young guards already on our roster, I just don't get the idea of taking Lawson. If you want to develop Stuckey as your primary backup to Billups, when would Lawson even get to play?

Lawson would play even less than Patrick Roy did for the Oilers.

i think we need backup SF the most too. i wouldn't touch the PG spot and probably not SG unless it was a SG who also played SF.

we need some size and bulk- someone who could compliment prince and be more physical with guys like lebron.

it's early but i would love a guy like bill walker. sure he's got issues but IMO he could make it as a shorter SF. not to mention his incredible athleticism and developing game. we could use an elite athlete like that too. reminds me a bit of bonzi wells/ruben patterson.

not sure how high he'll go- he could go anywhere from late lottery to end of the 1st round, simply because of his injuries and lack of a refined game.

i like douglas roberts a lot too as he's a very good finisher around the rim and in the paint on dribble penetration- we DESPERATELY need that. however he's very thin and might be more of a 2 guard.

like rush obviously as he's a bit of a paul pierce type, without the pissy attitude. he looks more like a 2 guard but could possibly make it at SF as a backup.

i'm very curious to see who we go after. taking someone from overseas is a distinct possibility too. but if we don't draft a young backup SF, we most certainly need to pursue one in FA. (pietrus can make it as a backup SF even though he's built more like a SG. i'd throw the MLE at him in a heartbeat)

i think we need backup SF the most too. i wouldn't touch the PG spot and probably not SG unless it was a SG who also played SF.




Personally, I'm sick of undersized SFs that also play SG (Delfino, Afflalo, etc.)

We need a legit 3.

Well, all of the swingmen mentioned are legit SF size (although CDR is built like RIP).

Walker and Rush are both considered SF's that can play SG. CDR is listed as a SF in most places, but he's got Rip's build like Chris said.

I bet Glenn wants us to take Lawson because we don't have a developing PG on the roster. (Stuckey is a SG, remember)

unless derrick rose falls to #29, i will guarantee we're not taking a PG. unless we feel a 3rd string PG is worth spending a 1st rounder on.

BTW- if stuckey isn't a PG then we drafted 2 SGs last year.....? no. we obviously see hot rod as our future PG or we wouldn't have invested in afflalo at SG. and don't tell me afflalo can play SF too because we know that's only in very limited situations.

Agreed on Afflalo at SG for sure. If you haven't noticed, whenever we bring him in with Rip and a PG on the flood, we always move Rip to SF. There's a reason for that. Afflalo will become the next Hunter, playing balls to the wall on defense and occasionally giving us some O to go with it.

BTW- if stuckey isn't a PG then we drafted 2 SGs last year.....? no.

We actually drafted 3 of them.

Nice to see you again, IMK.

Thanks, don't know how I followed basketball for that long without typing about it.

I've got to disagree with you on Stuckey, Glenn. I think he has definate starting PG potential. The thing is, I don't think he'll ever be a 10 apg guy. They'll need another weapon, like a big man to run the offense through or a swing that can also drive and dish.

About the avoiding energy big men because we have several. I believe you can never have too many, plus how long do you think we'll have Wallace/McDyess/Ratliff around before they fade? After that we basically have a big skinny guy who can jump and an buff undersized PF. They MIGHT both be starters, but I doubt it. Draft a SF if it's someone who can help immediately, otherwise go big!



I agree with Higherwarrior, we should definately draft a LeBron James type.

We actually drafted 3 of them.


Sammy Mejia?

Stuckey won't be a 10apg guy, but Billups isn't either and it seems to be working just fine.

I agree with Higherwarrior, we should definately draft a LeBron James type.


Too bad Rickey Paulding didn't pan out.

This should've been our starting five by now...

C- Andreas Glyniadakis
PF- Darko Milicic/Mikki Moore
SF- Rodney White
SG- Rickey Paulding
PG- Will Blalock

I just haven't seen Stuckey get his teammates open looks. He's very good at creating for himself, but until he can knock down that outside jumper consistently like Chauncey, he's going to end up being a liability at PG, offensively at least, IMO.

How can you say that in his first year.... lol.

I just haven't seen Stuckey get his teammates open looks. He's very good at creating for himself, but until he can knock down that outside jumper consistently like Chauncey, he's going to end up being a liability at PG, offensively at least, IMO.

Stuckey will need to create looks for his teamates the way a guy like Iverson does, basically by driving to the lane and then kicking out to somebody on the perimeter. He's never going to be a high assist guy, your right, but unlike Chauncey, he will probably be able to create more shots for himself and score more, thus not having to pass as often.

I just haven't seen Stuckey get his teammates open looks. He's very good at creating for himself, but until he can knock down that outside jumper consistently like Chauncey, he's going to end up being a liability at PG, offensively at least, IMO.

Agree on the jump shot. I admit I am assuming improvement in that area. You can't be a PG in the NBA with guys playing off you like 8 feet.

To be fair, Stuckey has stepped up his shooting from midrange distance in the playoffs. I'd like to see him become a threat from three point range, even if it's just over in the corners. I don't see lack of perimeter shooting from him as a problem though. If he can get to the basket at will, which I believe he can, he should be doing that all the time.

To be fair, Stuckey has stepped up his shooting from midrange distance in the playoffs. I'd like to see him become a threat from three point range, even if it's just over in the corners. I don't see lack of perimeter shooting from him as a problem though. If he can get to the basket at will, which I believe he can, he should be doing that all the time.

Yeah, he's been a very good midrange shooter in the playoffs. He'll improve his range I am sure.

Confidence and knowing when to shoot are huge parts of that too.

Chad Ford now has the Pistons taking Nathan Jawai, a 6'10" 270lb Australia PF.

The skinny: The Pistons could use more size and power in the paint and the Australian native has that in abundance. He's coming off a big year in Australia and his game resembles Elton Brand's a little. At this point in the draft, he's worth the risk.

I've been happy with Stuckey's improvement on his jumper already this season. To me, he seems like a confidence player. If he takes that outside shot with confidence, it's dropping. Any hesitance and it's off.


I'd like to see him become a threat from three point range, even if it's just over in the corners.

I'd love to see him work on his three-point game, a la Rip, but PGs don't make it to the corners too often, so I'd like to see him focus on the top of the key to the elbows extended. Then teams will be forced to play him tight, opening up passing lanes and allowing him to drive at will.

D.J. White Promise?

D.J. White may a promise from the Detroit Pistons at the end of the first round, according to sources with ties to the player. The Pistons have the 29th overall pick and may like the way White’s length and toughness fit into their team’s overall culture. They have not been shy in the past about identifying players they like early on and being aggressive pursuing them—having made a promise to draft Rodney Stuckey with the 15th overall pick right around this time last year, and reportedly also giving DeVon Hardin assurances they would select him in the late first round before he decided to return to school. They did the same exact thing with Jason Maxiell a few years back, which caused him to pull out of the NBA pre-draft camp after just one day, despite then being projected as a 2nd round pick.

White has scheduled many workouts with NBA teams for the weeks leading up to draft, which is not unusual even for players like Stuckey or Maxiell if year’s past is any indication. He will not be playing in the NBA pre-draft camp, which is a pretty good sign that he feels comfortable with where he is projected to be drafted.
http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Word-on-the-Street-Love-to-Minnesota--2898/

^ Nice find Defrocked.

Also, thats the first time I heard the story on Max pulling out of the pre-draft camp. Interesting.

We have no need, but he may well be the BPA at that spot, which is what Joe is talkin bout.

D.J. White is a damn good player, IF he can stay healthy. He's tough underneath with good touch and NBA skills. He is a little undersized though, like Max.

Ford's got us taking DeVon Hardin now.

I'd be fine with that.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-080602

By the way, I just started those three "Pistons Potential Draft Target" threads because those are the three guys that Chad Ford has had for us in each of his first three mocks.

I thought maybe we could fill those threads with write ups on those players, maybe some YouTube videos and any first hand accounts from those here that may be familiar with those player's games.

Anybody can feel free to start similar threads if they would like to (like DJ White?) but I wouldn't rely on any sites that don't factor specific team needs into their mocks (like Draft Express or NBADraft.net).

Pistons will begin NBA draft workouts Wednesday

by A. Sherrod Blakely
Tuesday June 03, 2008, 7:37 PM

AUBURN HILLS -- And now, here's the non-Flip Saunders portion of our daily coverage. The NBA draft will be here before you know it, which means workouts will be full effect by all teams -- including the Pistons.

Here's a preliminary list of players who will be at the team's practice facility in the coming weeks.

Now keep in mind, this list likely will expand as wannabe mid-first rounders discover that nobody in the middle of the first round wants them and teams picking near the end of the first round, such as Detroit, could be their only shot at a guaranteed first-round pick contract.

Of course, there also will be a few that Detroit might consider with the No. 59 pick. But there's a very good shot that whoever they select that late into the draft, will be an overseas project.

I meant to give you folks this list earlier, but uh, today's been a little busier than usual, know what I mean?

With no further delay, here's the early list:
• Shan Foster, SG, Vanderbilt
• Omri Casspi, SF, Israel
• Bill Walker, SF, Kansas State
• Joe Crawford, SG, Kentucky
• Mike Green, PG, Butler
• D.J. White, PF, Indiana
• Joey Dorsey, PF, Memphis
• Courtney Lee, SG, Western Kentucky
• Trent Plaisted, C, BYU
• Giorgi Shermandini, C, the Republic of Georgia
• Kentrell Grandsberry, PF, South Florida
• Malik Hairston, SF, Oregon

It seems like ASB has been killing it the last few days.

No surprise, working out Joe Crawford and Malik Hairston, I remember when those two were in high school together and beat the shit out of Warren Fitzgerald en route to a state title...

yet somehow, Drew Nietzel won Mr. Basketball...

DraftExpress has us picking Bill Walker in their mock at the moment... didn't think his stock was quite that low.

DraftExpress has us picking Bill Walker in their mock at the moment... didn't think his stock was quite that low.

They don't take team needs into account (read the disclaimer at the top of their mock draft page).

You probably already know that, though.

It was a statement about his position in the draft. I kinda expected he'd be in the high teens/upper 20s, not #29. I know they don't take team needs into account (though they DO take stuff they hear at training camp and such into account).

Walker was hurt a while this year and that killed his stock if I remember right.

I would love for Bill Walker to drop to the Pistons. He's got a nasty attitude on the court and by the time next season rolls around, he should be more healed and have more confidence in his repaired knee. He's got a decent jumper, but is athletic as hell. This is exactly what we need at the SF position. Hell he could probably even give Rip a breather as well.

Do NOT sign Jarvis Hayes again, and let Walker come in and work in the summer league and slowly build him up to 15 min/ night backing up Prince/ Hamilton. How many times over the past few years have you seen young scrubs outhustle the Pistons to get rebounds or put backs? We need more athleticism and Tay needs some rest during the game.

I'm thinking a starting line up of:

Chauncey (maybe trade him?)
Rip
Tay
Dice
Brand (can't I dream?)

Bench: Max, Stuckey, Walker, Amir

Sources: MRI needed after another knee injury strikes draft prospect Walker

By Andy Katz
ESPN.com
Updated: June 15, 2008, 11:46 PM ET

Representatives for Kansas State redshirt freshman Bill Walker were scrambling to secure a commitment from a team drafting late in the first round after Walker injured his right knee during a workout in California this weekend.

Multiple sources close to Walker, and at least one who attended the workout in the Bay Area, said Sunday night that Walker would undergo another MRI on his knee Monday. Walker was one of 24 players at the Golden State Warriors' facility to work out in front of representatives from 21 NBA teams. The players in attendance were projected as being between the 20th and 45th picks.

Monday is the deadline for underclassmen who haven't hired agents to withdraw from the draft and return to school.

Walker has had multiple knee injuries during his playing career. He played in six games during the 2006-07 season before tearing his ACL in his left knee. He graduated from high school that October and became eligible for Kansas State in December. Playing as the understudy to Michael Beasley on the Wildcats this season, Walker averaged 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds.

Walker has worked out for Detroit (29th pick) and Toronto (17th). He turned down an invitation to the Orlando pre-draft camp last month.

Reached late Sunday night, Kansas State coach Frank Martin, who hadn't been informed of the extent of Walker's injury, said he was told that Walker would not decide whether to remain in the draft until just before the 5 p.m. ET deadline.

If Walker were to return to Kansas State, and is healthy, then he would surely be the focal point on the Wildcats after Beasley declared and stayed in the draft by signing with an agent. Kansas State lost to Wisconsin in the second round of the NCAA tournament after the Wildcats beat Walker's former high school and AAU teammate O.J. Mayo and USC.

A year ago, Kansas guard Brandon Rush suffered a torn ACL prior to the withdrawal deadline and was forced to return to KU. Rush ended up helping the Jayhawks win the national championship in April.

Walker declined to participate in the NBA pre-draft camp in late May and decided to pull out of two workouts with Houston and New Orleans last week. Up until now, he has only managed to visit the Toronto Raptors (where he looked extremely nervous and was tentative, but checked out just fine on his physical) and Detroit Pistons (where he was reportedly outstanding), meaning NBA teams will have much less information to go off on draft night than they would likely prefer.

Would Joe gamble and still take Walker despite the knee injury?

:mccosky:


Pistons busy looking at potential draft picks
Chris McCosky / The Detroit News

The Pistons have the 29th and 59th picks in the draft (June 26), not exactly prime spots. In fact, there is a strong possibility Joe Dumars might trade the 29th pick and get out of the first round altogether. That way, he doesn't have to worry about giving guaranteed money to another D-League player.

But that doesn't mean George David and the Pistons scouting staff can take the month off. Far from it. The Pistons have or will have worked out 29 players before draft night.

What stands out is, one, they are looking at mostly older prospects -- guys 22 years or older. And two, there is an emphasis on swing players -- more than half of the prospects are shooting guards and small forwards.

Here's a positional breakdown of all the players they will have looked at before draft day:

Point guards: Lester Hudson, 23, 6-3, 190, Tennessee-Martin; Sean Singletary, 22, 6-0, 180, Virginia; Brian Roberts, 22, 6-2, 175, Dayton.

Shooting guards: Shan Foster, 21, 6-6, 205, Vanderbilt; Joe Crawford, 21, 6-4, 210, Kentucky; Marcus Stout, 22, 6-4, 195, Fordham; Sonny Weems, 21, 6-6, 201, Arkansas; DeMarcus Nelson, 22, 6-4, 200, Duke; Courtney Lee, 22, 6-5, 200, Western Kentucky.

Small forwards: Deron Washington, 22, 6-7, 205, Virginia Tech; Omri Casspi, 19, 6-8, 220, Israel Maccabi Tel Aviv; Davon Jefferson, 21, 6-8, 215, USC; Bill Walker, 20, 6-6, 225, Kansas State; Patrick Ewing Jr., 24, 6-9, 235, Georgetown; Pat Calathes, 22, 6-10, 210, St. Joseph; Malik Hairston, 21, 6-6, 200, Oregon; Gary Forbes, 23, 6-7, 220, Massachusetts.

Power forwards: Richard Hendrix, 21, 6-8, 250, Alabama; D.J. White, 21, 6-9, 230, Indiana; Joey Dorsey, 24, 6-9, 260, Memphis; Ryan Anderson, 20, 6-10, 240, California; J.J. Hickson, 19, 6-9, 242, N.C. State; Kentrell Gransberry, 22, 6-9, 270, South Florida; James Gist, 21, 6-8, 223, Maryland; Darnell Jackson, 22, 6-8, 250, Kansas.

Centers: Jason Thompson, 21, 6-11, 250, Rider; Sasha Kaun, 23, 6-11, 245, Kansas; Alexis Ajinca, 20, 7-1, 225, France, Devon Hardin, 21, 6-11, 250, California.

trade the 29 and maxiell for ...a center? hmm trading the 29 with someone would create interesting scenarios

Bill Walker decided to keep his name in, per ESPN.

Must feel pretty confident

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/news/story?id=3446325

UNC is going to be nasty next year.

Official Early-Entry List:

NCAA Staying In:

Joe Alexander (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Joe-Alexander-1185/), West Virginia (signed with Doug Neustadt)
Ryan Anderson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ryan-Anderson-1150/), California
Darrell Arthur (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Darrell-Arthur-484/), Kansas
D.J. Augustin (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/D.J.-Augustin-1181/), Texas
Jerryd Bayless (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Jerryd-Bayless-1067/), Arizona
Michael Beasley (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Michael-Beasley-605/), Kansas State
Mario Chalmers (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Mario-Chalmers-278/), Kansas
Chris Douglas-Roberts (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Chris-Douglas-Roberts-506/), Memphis
C.J. Giles (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/C.J.-Giles-378/), Oregon State
Donte Greene (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Donte-Greene-1066/), Syracuse
Kalen Grimes, Missouri
Eric Gordon (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Eric-Gordon-328/), Indiana
DeAndre Jordan (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/DeAndre-Jordan-1072/), Texas A&M
Kosta Koufos (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Kosta-Koufos-1070/), Ohio State
Jamont Gordon (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Jamont-Gordon-290/), Mississippi State (signing with Charles Grantham?)
Shawn James (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Shawn-James-361/), Duquesne
Davon Jefferson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Davon-Jefferson-499/), Southern California
Brook Lopez (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Brook-Lopez-545/), Stanford
Robin Lopez (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Robin-Lopez-1073/), Stanford
Kevin Love (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Kevin-Love-1062/), UCLA
O.J. Mayo (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/O.J.-Mayo-238/), Southern California
Richard Hendrix (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Richard-Hendrix-229/), Alabama
J.J. Hickson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/J.J.-Hickson-1239/), North Carolina State
George Hill (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/George-Hill-5067/), IUPUI
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Luc-Richard-Mbah-A-Moute-1016/), UCLA
JaVale McGee (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/JaVale-McGee-1197/), Nevada
Kojo Mensah, Duquesne
Trent Plaisted (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Trent-Plaisted-1011/), Brigham Young
Anthony Randolph (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Anthony-Randolph-1069/), LSU
Walter Sharpe (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Walter-Sharpe-5238/), Alabama-Birmingham (signed with agent Danny Servick)
Derrick Rose (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Derrick-Rose-1068/), Memphis
Brandon Rush (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Brandon-Rush-78/), Kansas
Marreese Speights (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Marreese-Speights-1183/), Florida
Bill Walker (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Bill-Walker-552/), Kansas State
Russell Westbrook (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Russell-Westbrook-5062/), UCLA

International Players In:

Alexis Ajinca (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Alexis-Ajinca-534/), Hyeres-Toulon (France)
Nicolas Batum (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Nicolas-Batum-537/), Le Mans (France)
Danilo Gallinari (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Danilo-Gallinari-535/), Armani Jeans Milano (Italy)
Serge Ibaka (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Serge-Ibaka-1302/), L'Hospitalet (Spain)
Ante Tomic (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ante-Tomic-257/), Zagreb (Croatia)

NCAA Pulled Out:

A.J. Abrams, Texas
Josh Akognon, Cal State Fullerton
Antonio Anderson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Antonio-Anderson-1010/), Memphis
Chase Budinger (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Chase-Budinger-502/), Arizona
Lee Cummard (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Lee-Cummard-5207/), Brigham Young
Derrick Caracter (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Derrick-Caracter-233/), Louisville
DeMarre Carroll (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/DeMarre-Carroll-5069/), Missouri
Josh Carter (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Josh-Carter-1251/), Texas A&M
Robert Dozier (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Robert-Dozier-600/), Memphis
Wayne Ellington (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Wayne-Ellington-482/), North Carolina
Alonzo Gee (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Alonzo-Gee-1227/), Alabama
Danny Green (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Danny-Green-504/), North Carolina
Lester Hudson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Lester-Hudson-5065/), Tennessee-Martin
Stefon Jackson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Stefon-Jackson-5108/), Texas-El Paso
Ty Lawson (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ty-Lawson-485/), North Carolina
Leo Lyons (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Leo-Lyons-1229/), Missouri
Jerel McNeal (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Jerel-McNeal-1161/), Marquette
Jeremy Pargo (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Jeremy-Pargo-1153/), Gonzaga
Josh Shipp (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Josh-Shipp-410/), UCLA
Ron Steele (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ron-Steele-312/), Alabama
John Riek (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/John-Riek-1317/), Winchendon School (MA)
Robert Vaden (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Robert-Vaden-477/), Alabama-Birmingham

International Players Out:

Rodrigue Beaubois (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Rodrigue-Beaubois-1298/), Cholet (France)
Mikheil Berishvili, BC Vita (Georgia)
Omri Casspi (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Omri-Casspi-538/), Maccabi Tel Aviv (Israel)
Victor Claver (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Victor-Claver-336/), Pamesa Valencia (Spain)
Joe Ingles (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Joe-Ingles-1119/), Melbourne South Dragons (Australia)
Jonas Jerebko (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Jonas-Jerebko-1403/), Biella (Italy)
Luc Louves (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Luc-Louves-1393/), Orleans (France)
Rudy Mbemba (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Rudy-Mbemba-1296/), Solna (Sweden)
Henk Norel (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Henk-Norel-1156/), Alicante (Spain)
Giorgi Shermadini (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Giorgi-Shermadini-5166/), Maccabi Tbilisi (Georgia)
Ronalds Zakis (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ronalds-Zakis-5234/), VEF Riga (Latvia)

I know the Pistons were looking at Casspi, so that's noteworthy.

damn sucks for denver that lawson pulled out.

Chase Buddinger will hurt the draft a lot too. There aren't many wings in the middle of the first now. You've got Gallinari and Alexander who will probably go in the 10-15 range. Then you have a drop off. I expect Rush and Batum to get taken a little earlier because of this. I suspect CDR will not be there when we pick either. Walker had slipped to a possible early second, but I could see us taking him now.

Ford just updated his mock:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-080617

Jason Thompson -- what do we know about him? I'm not really into college basketball...

Jason Thompson -- what do we know about him? I'm not really into college basketball...

I used to have a lot of his Burger King/Topps cards

I'm guessing that Vinny might be the only one that understands this post

Can anyone with Insider access let me know where Ford has Drew Neitzel ranked in his top 100?

84th overall. 13th amongst PG's

So undrafted.

I wonder if Joe will...nah!

I saw a mock today, I think it was RealGM, that had us selecting Roy Hibbert. Now that would be an interesting pick. IMO, Hibbert is the type of player to be a complete flop and be out of the league in 2 years (which is more likely) or he could be a solid starting center...

Probably undrafted, yes. NBAdraft.net has him taken by San Antonio in the 2nd round, but he's the 7th PG off the board there. If he's more like in the 10-13 range as ESPN has him he won't get drafted.

I think some teal will sign him after the draft. He has a lot of experience and would be worth a look as a 3rd PG. If I'm Joe I would at least invite him to summer camp and take a look. If Hunter retires we could use a 3rd PG (and we have AA as a defensive specialist). Then again, I'm hoping we take a chance on a 2nd round PG like George Hill, or there are a couple foreign PG's we could stash for a couple years.

What the hell, why not take a chance on a Tom Izzo trained point guard?

That's about the closest thing to a can't miss as it gets!

Even better if he's a hometown guy, there might be marketing opportunities with that!

What the hell, why not take a chance on a Tom Izzo trained point guard?

That's about the closest thing to a can't miss as it gets!

Even better if he's a hometown guy, there might be marketing opportunities with that!


I don't have Insider either, but is Drew Naymick on his 'Big Board Top 100'?

Also, I bet had Neitzel come out after his Junior year, he'd have gotten drafted...last year was brutal for his draft stock

Naymick = DONE

What the hell, why not take a chance on a Tom Izzo trained point guard?

That's about the closest thing to a can't miss as it gets!

Even better if he's a hometown guy, there might be marketing opportunities with that!
Why must I be a
Mateenager in love...

I've seen some speculation on Mlive and AOL Fanhouse that the Pistons have promised Bill Walker that they'll draft him at #29 if he's there.

I'd take him at #29. Great scorer and rebounds well too.

The only rub is that it's hard to give a guaranteed contract to a guy that keeps hurting his knees.

Yeah, but a late first is only a mil a season starting out anyway. I doubt it would make much difference.

If he rehabs his knees, he's a potential steal there. If he doesn't, we used a VERY late first on Arnie-Kander-hopes-and-dreams. Worth it to me.

word

fucking wurd

Ford is chatting today at 1 pm on ESPN.com about the draft.

Sasha Kaun signed a 3-year contract with CSKA Moscow, as released on their their official website this weekend. Kaun may end up being the highest paid player on the Kansas Jayhawk championship team, as his salary will be similar to that of a late lottery pick next season. He has not shut the door on playing in the NBA down the road, as he has a comfortable buyout after the second year of his contract, which may even make him more attractive to a team drafting in the late second round.

The Pistons worked out Kaun recently, IIRC

Ford mock 6.0
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-080623&campaign=rss&source=NBAHeadlines

Ford's newest mock draft (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-080623) has a crazy amount of change from his last version for this late in the process.

Edit: Glenn beat me to it.

Bill Walker’s has decided not to have surgery on his recent knee injury, now suspected to be a minor ligament strain. Walker will be sidelined for 3-6 weeks, but is in the process of visiting teams in the draft at the moment. He was in Memphis and Detroit this past week, but does not appear have a promise from anyone at this point, as opposed to what was suggested by one media outlet. According to people close to Walker, the initial diagnosis of a partially torn Meniscus from the group workout in Golden State was incorrect.

Nathan Jawai will also be conducting a group workout on Tuesday, this time in New York City. The workout will be conducted by the Detroit Pistons, and will be attended by the Knicks, Nets, Grizzlies, Wizards and possibly others. 10 players will be there, including Jonathan Wallace and Novica Velickovic.

Who do you think they'll take at #29? And why?

Maybe you think they'll move up/down or out altogether?

Feel free to take a stab at the 2nd round pick, too.

Bill Walker at #29 because he's a value pick at that spot and he fills a need.

Drew Neitzel at #59 because I want, nay, need that to happen.

I hope for Jason Thompson or Roy Hibbert, but DeAndre Jordan at #29.

I hope we dump #59 somehow, or include it in a trade.

Also, I think this prediction thread should include the following (sorry for hijacking your thread, Glenn):

Do you think the Pistons will make a trade on draft night?

I think yes.

Ford and Simmons are doing their live mock right now:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?page=DraftDebate-080624

I don't think they'll make a trade on draft night...I don't think Joe has the stones to make a move so soon in the offseason

I would love for Bill Walker to fall to 29, but I would settle for a guy like Thompson or Hibbert as well...

and for the 2nd round, I love DJ White, but I'm not sure we have room for him on our roster and I also doubt he'd be there at 59, so I bet we draft either a random EURO or trade the pick...

I want Thompson in the 1st round, as for the 2nd - whoever has a funny name will do me just fine.

Props to Blazers for buying another pick (Hornets #27) - they're going to FUN to watch on draft day.
I love their draft day trades - they're like a drunk kid doing the offseason on NBA Live...
I can definitely see a big trade coming from them.

Pritchard get's an erotic thrill over the flexibility of his draft picks...

I'm really hoping Jordan slips to us, but it won't happen. I'd be happy with Thompson as well. We definately need an athletic 7 footer with more size than Amir (who may not be able to play center full time, we'll see).

I would also like Bill Walker, but who does Joe pick? My prediction is:

DJ White. Joe has shown that he is fine with undersize players, and likes ones with production and passion. Joe likes to take players he knows will be available. Even though we have a ton of PFs, I think Joe takes this one since he can post and rebound.

I would rather have a center personally, but if he turns out to be a Brand-like player, who would be upset?

Is Bill Walker's injury going to cost him some games this year or whats the deal with that??

I assume the only reason he'd fall to 29 is because of the injury...

Is Bill Walker's injury going to cost him some games this year or whats the deal with that??

I assume the only reason he'd fall to 29 is because of the injury...

No, he may even be ready for summer league. Just a strained Meniscus (according to his agent). If so, 4 weeks from now he should be fine.

Yeah, they were reporting that the original diagnosis was wrong, he's going to be back in 4-6 weeks.

Bobcats got the #20 pick from the Nuggets...

Ford mock 7.0
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=MockDraft-080626

If they take that fuck from Rider over Hardin... Ill be pissed.

draftexpress has us rolling with Ryan Anderson... I do not see that happening.

Do you guys think it's going to be possible for Riley to change his mind and take Beasley now with all that has been said/reported?

Do you guys think it's going to be possible for Riley to change his mind and take Beasley now with all that has been said/reported?

Absolutly.

Do you guys think it's going to be possible for Riley to change his mind and take Beasley now with all that has been said/reported?
I have a buddy that works for ESPN radio down in Miami... and for the past month, he has been telling me they are not going to take beasley. He has gone as far as guaranteeing they dont take him... I am suprised it has taken this long to get out to everyone... it seems common knowledge down there...

i would be equally pissed with anderson from cal. no thanks!

i like the kid, thompson, from rider OK.

some late 2nd round guys i really like:

obviously DJ white but i don't think he'll be there at #59
jamont gordan
demarcus nelson
gary forbes
kyle weaver
sonny weems
joe crawford

all might be there around #59 and i think offer nice potential down the line.

Do you guys think it's going to be possible for Riley to change his mind and take Beasley now with all that has been said/reported?

I read something somewhere that makes a lot of sense.

Minnesota currently owns one of the Heat's future 1sts.

The Heat takes Beasley and Minny takes Mayo.

Beasley is then traded to Minny for Mayo and the Heat get their old pick back.

I'm not watching a single minute of this.