Indiana Pacers

Indiana Pacers - Off-season and Financial Moves

Although they missed the playoffs last year by only a single game, it was clear this team was on a downhill slide, and needed to make some changes in the off-season.

Problem #1 was Jermaine O’Neal’s huge contract (2 years at about $44 million). That problem was solved when they traded him to Toronto for the much more manageable contracts of TJ Ford (3 years, $25 million, the third year a player option) and Rasho Nesterovic (1 year, $8.4 million).

The acquisition of Ford also solved problem #2 – point guard. Due to Jamaal Tinsley’s continued injury and conditioning problems, the Pacers had to use a merry-go-round of point guards in his stead last year that included Travis Diener, Andre Owens, Flip Murray, and even swingman Marquis Daniels at times. This caused a discontinuity in the offense that forced Coach Jim O’Brien to rely on perimeter players like Mike Dunleavy and Danny Granger to be creators on offense.

Ford, if healthy (which is a crap shoot considering the fragility of his spine situation) is a true point guard capable of directing an offense, and comes equipped with a unique ability to use his speed and ball-handling prowess to penetrate defenses to produce his own offense. Because of his lack of size and strength, he is a defensive liability. But O’Brien has never been a coach who is too concerned about defense. This Pacer team will be predicated on scoring points, and Ford is a good floor general to have for that.

Solving problem #2 though has created another problem – what to do with Tinsley now? He has 3 years left on his contract for about $21 million. Ford immediately takes over as starter, the Pacers picked up Jarrett Jack from Portland in a draft day trade to be his backup, and Diener is still around to be a designated shooter off the bench. Tinsley doesn’t fit here anymore.

The Pacers are desperate to work a trade, but other teams are not interested in picking up his contract. Although I’m sure many teams would be interested in him if the Pacers waived him, or bought him out, which at the current time looks unlikely to happen. At present, it looks like the Pacers will pay him to stay home until they find a suitable trade partner. And Tinsley meanwhile, will continue to work out on his own in hopes that a deal can be worked out.

Another problem this trade caused for the Pacers is now they have very little inside scoring. O’Neal and Ike Diogu, the only two low post scorers they had were both traded (Diogu in the draft day trade with Portland). This is a strictly perimeter team now. Their main scorers will be Granger, Dunleavy, Ford, and Troy Murphy – all drive-and-kick jump shooters, or slashers.

In other minor moves, draft bust David Harrison, who was a restricted free agent, was not given his qualifying offer to stay. He’s one headache the team decided they could do without. Both of this year’s draft choices (who were actually drafted by other teams but wound up in Indiana due to trades), swingman Brandon Rush from Kansas and center Roy Hibbert from Georgetown, are both signed and ready to go; and both look like nice players who could contribute rather quickly.

Give Larry Bird credit here. With Donnie Walsh gone to manage the dysfunctional Knicks, Bird pulled the trigger on a huge trade that not only solved roster problems on his team, but also seriously helped their financial situation. The Pacers have no more “troublesome” contracts to deal with besides Tinsley’s now, they have the financial flexibility to re-up young stud Danny Granger to a long-term deal, and they will be set up nicely for the 2011 free agent season. The problems aren’t completely solved yet, but all-in-all, this was a positive off-season for the Pacers. I’ll give Bird a B+ for his off-season work; which could turn to an A if he finds a taker for Tinsley.

2008 NBA Mock Draft v.2

This is my second take at a mock draft for the 2008 NBA season. I’ve made updates with who teams have been giving workouts to and with who’s on the trading block now. This second version has several teams selecting the same person that I had before, while others could be looking for something different. I think teams looking to trade up to Number 2 (Memphis and Seattle) could stir up this draft, but until draft day, we most likely won’t know. So here is the draft list (with no possible trades built in).

1. Chicago Bulls

- Derrick Rose, PG, Memphis

While Chicago still hasn’t played their cards, their pick is becoming pretty aparent. The Miami Heat have become high on OJ Mayo, which is a clear sign that the Bulls will be taking the Heat’s number 1 option, Derrick Rose. Rose will change the make up of this team, and give them a couple of options to excell. Ben Gordon will most likely be let lose (Restricted Free Agent), with Kirk Hinrich will rotate over to SG (his natural position). At this moment it looks like Drew Gooden is going to be the immediate starter at PF, so in the second round the Bulls will have to address there lack of depth there.

2. Miami Heat

- OJ Mayo, G, USC

The Heat have been giving impressions that if rose is gone, they will pass up on Beasley. They are in a good situation here, they can draft Mayo and have a dynamic backcourt of Mayo and Wade, or they can trade the number 2 pick and net a starting point guard, and move down (maybe a package of Kyle Lowery, Mike Miller, and the Number 5 pick, and taking back Mark Blount or Marcus Banks would be a suitable package for Memphis to move up). I think a team to definitely look at making a move up to this spot is the Seattle Supersonics. They could swap the Number 4 pick to the Heat, along with phoenix’s number 1 from the 09 draft and a low budget player on the sonics (Earl Watson, Luke Ridnour, or one of the sonics bigmen). That might interest the Heat alot, especially if they make the trade after the sonics pick at 4, because they could get Mayo and a second 1st rounder in 09, and pay a little less for him.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves

- Micheal Beasley, PF, Kansas State

The Timberwolves will be jumping for joy if Beasley falls to them at 3. Beasley is a better guy to team with Jefferson than Lopez. Jefferson is a skilled big man, but he isn’t super athletic (don’t get me wrong, he isn’t a tree stump either) so it would be better to leave him at the 5 and place an athletic big man who can score from the outside and inside, and eats up rebounds to help him out. Beasley would complete the lineup in Minnesota and allow them to do tinkering to get it right(Gomes or Brewer at SF, McCants at SG or move foye over, etc), the way portland is doing now. If Beasley is gone, I can see Minnesota picking up Anthony Randolph or Brook Lopez here instead.

4. Seattle Supersonics

- Jerryd Bayless, G, Arizona

I already talked about the scenario here, that could have Mayo going here and being traded to Miami for Beasley. Bayless is the guy if Seattle stays put. I originally had DJ Augustin as the next PG off the board in my eyes, but hearing what is rumored to have been said from Mike D’Antoni to Bayless makes me feel that all of the high lottery teams feel his PG skills are developed enough to entrust him with leading a team now. So that said, the Sonics would grab him up and have 4 of their 5 starting positions all finalaized and could then be a center away. But I think they might be even more interested in picking up Micheal Beasley and say DJ Augustin, if they could trade back up (with their second 1st round pick, and 2 second rounders).

5. Memphis Grizzlies

- Kevin Love, PF, UCLA

The Grizzlies seem to be really interested in Kevin Love. I think it might be the right choice for them, because he’s a guy who you know what you are getting out of him. This is a team that is trying to find its identity and I don’t think they need to add another wild card in. Instead they need to find the front could stability to team with their backcourt of Conley, Miller, and Gay. Love can be an instant starter and contribute some toughness and defense on the inside, which this team has never had, even with Gasol.

6. New York Knicks

- DJ Augustin, PG, Texas

Mike D’Antoni is clearly looking for a PG with this pick, since the knicks don’t have the assets to trade for a PG and still be competitive. The New York Post quoted Jerryd bayless after a dinner with Mike D’Antoni saying “He said he has all the tools, he just needs an engine to run it, like Steve Nash,” Bayless said. “So hopefully if the situation works out I can be the engine or the steering wheel to get it going.” Well, that said I think DJ Augustin in the perfect choice with who’s left on the board. Augustin has the PG skills that Mike needs and the same kind of vision Steve Nash does. He is a little short, but Chris Paul is showing us that it doesn’t matter as long as you have the motor. I think Augustin becomes step on in D’Antoni’s rebuilding plans if Bayless is off the boards.

7. LA Clippers

- Russell Westbrook, PG, UCLA

It looks less and less likely that Shaun Livingston is going to be back with the team next year, dramatically shifting the clippers focus to PG. I think that this will also encourage the Clippers to resign Corey Maggette so they aren’t just replacing one hole with another. Westbrook would be a good choice here, because if need be he can be rotated around in the backcourt (say they find their PG in free agency) to play SG as well.

8. Milwaukee Bucks

- Danilo Galinari, SF, Italy

Gallinari would be a great fit for the Bucks’ current roster. The Bucks have had a gap at SF for a long time, and their trade of TJ ford hasn’t worked out quite like they hoped. but that said Mo Williams is doing a good job at the point, and Redd is the dependable scorer on the team, they have spent the past couple of years developing their frontcourt and seem to have found a suitable rotation of Charlie Villanueva, Yi Jian lin, and Andrew Bogut. That said this team needs a SF, and no one fits them better than Gallinari. Dan has the handle of a PG, and can spend some time as a point forward, which would work out well for the undersized Mo Williams. This team would be a very potent scoring threat if both Mo Williams and Micheal Redd are free to roam while Gallinari handles the ball, you would then have to pick your poison. This pick could change alot as the Bucks seem to be shopping some of their players, and if they make their way out of town then there could be a very different need here.

9. Charlotte Bobcats

- DeAndre Jordon, C, Texas A&M

The Bobcats need to pick up a qulaity big man. But more importantly, they need to understand what Nazr Mohammad showed them last season, Emeka Okafor is a PF, not a Center. I know the Cats like playing Okafor at the 5 because he is a little slow, but he is too small to be a center. DeAndre Jordan could become a really really good center for the cats. He has the athleticism, speed, and size that complements the heart of this team (Jason Richardson and Gerald Wallace), I think he would also make Raymond Felton better, who is used to having a mobile big man to dish too (Sean May in college, and in Charlotte until his knee injury). I think that DeAndre Jordan and Anthony Randolph are the only players in the mix for Charlotte. Some people have speculated they could be interested in Kevin Love, but I think that his lack of Athletisism will echo Emeka too much (and Mirror their problems with May and Morrson as well).

10. New Jersey Nets

- Anthony Randolph, PF, LSU

Ironically I think the Nets would be happy with landing either Randolph or Jordan here. Randolph gives them the athletic explosiveness they tried to bring to the team by trading for Stromile Swift. I think a frontcourt sporting Anthony Randolph, and Sean Williams/Josh Boone would look really good to them. There has been some speculation that Richard Jefferson is being shopped shouldn’t change this pick, because in most scenarios the Nets would probably be looking to bring in another SF, SG, or C, leaving their need for PF still pretty high.

11. Indiana Pacers

- Brook Lopez, C, Stanford

The Pacers have a hole at PG, and could easily decide to take Ty Lawson here, but I think his downsides may make them shy away from taking him this high. Brook Lopez would be a great choice, he would be the heir aparent to Jermaine O’Neal, and an insurance policy in case he goes down again. considering O’Neal only has one year left on his contract, the Pacers would now have the flexibility to consider trading O’Neal and not having to take back a center (for example, they could send him to the Raptors with a future pick and take back TJ Ford).

12. Sacremento Kings

- Darrell Arthur, PF, Kansas

The kings needs are PG, and PF. They are going to try to resign Beno Udrich who was really the bright spot of their season, as far as development went. Arthur is still a little raw, but he’s quick for a 4, and has power. Alot of this pick will rely on if Ron Artest Opts out of his contract, because I think the kings may then satisfy their needs with a free agent PF and instead grab Donte Green here.

13. Portland Trailblazers

- Eric Gordon, SG, Indiana

The trailblazers can take the best player available here, and look who just fell into their lap. Now it may not seem like Eric Gordon fits into their needs but he fits perfectly into their needs. Steve Blake only has two year left on his contract, and isn’t even averaging the most assists on the team. The Blazers could toy with (at times this season) shifting roy over to the point and playing Gordon at SG. It would instantly give them another defender in the starting lineup, and in a division that has Allen Iverson and Kevin Durant, they could use a tough defender who is a sweet shooter on the floor.

14. Golden State Warriors

- Donte Green, SF/PF, Syracuse

Now, this is a great match. What do the warriors look for, Athletic players who can shoot, and can play a multitude of positions. I think Donte Green can come in and take the place of the (surely departing) Matt Barnes. Green can shoot (not the best 3 point shooter, but he’s improving), he has alot of size for a small forward (6′10″) and he can move. I think the Warriors if they were left with the players that are left would be either Green or Joe Alexander.

15. Phoenix Suns

- Joe Alexander, SF, West Virginia

The Suns need to upgrade at SF. If leandro barbosa is traded I can see them targetting Brandon Rush here, but if not they need a scorer at the wing. Bell and Grant are more defenders that scorers, and with Marion gone now only Nash and Amare really can run up the scoring sheet. Alexander is a good fit, he can shoot from all over the court and is athletic, fitting well with Nash and Amare. He should be able to help out Barbosa too, by being another scoring option off the bench (so barbosa doesn’t get doubled all the time with the second unit).

16. Philadelphia 76ers

- JJ Hickson, PF, NC State

The 76ers needs haven’t changed from the last time I made this mock draft. The only thing that might change is weither their persuit of Elton brand changes their needs. I have JJ Hickson flying up the boards based on his performances in workouts. He is the best (pure) PF left on the board that wouldn’t be a reach to be taken here.

17. Toronto Raptors

- Robin Lopez, C, Stanford

I think the Raptors biggest need is at Center. Jamario Moon looks like he showed them enough that they will be satisfied with using him and Bargnani at the 3. Now this team needs a real center. Bargnani is not a center, he has the height but isn’t filled out enough, he is really more of a PF, but Bosh already occupies that position on this team, which in my eyes moves him to the 3, a very big 3 mind you. Robin Lopez will give them the traditional center that they need. This is also a team that needs fire, as good as Chris Bosh is, he isn’t the emotional leader that some of his draft class have proven to be (Dwayne Wade and Lebron James), so if Robin can bring the intensity to this team that Noah and Varejao bring to theirs, it will be a great fit.

18. Washington Wizards

- Maresse Spreights, C, Florida

This pick is a wildcard. If the Wizards resign all of their free agents then I think Spreights is their guy, if they don’t then they could be in need of a PG, in which Ty Lawson could be a possibility. The Wizards have struggled at center for sometime. Brendon Haywood is serviceable, but he isn’t the kind of center to help lead you to the NBA finals. This team needs someone who can contribute on the offensive end, but still run, and Spreights can do that.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers

- Brandon Rush, SG, Kansas

Rush would be a perfect fit for the cavs. This is a team that has problems creating shots for themselves out side of the front court of Lebron, Smith, and Big Z. Wally and Gibson are good shooters, but they are both defensive liabilities (for Ginbson its mostly his height). Rush would help give them a defensive presence at 2, who isn’t scoring inept (unlike Ben Wallace and Anderson Varejao). I think if a PG were to slip to here that had some height the Cavs would want to take him over Rush. But if not Rush could be their guy, I don’t see CDR as an option, because he is essentially Larry Hughes all over again, great player, but not a fit for this team.

20. Denver Nuggets

- Ty Lawson, PG, UNC

The Nuggets are in desperate need for a PG. They foolishly let Steve Blake leave, and have been in need of a pure point guard since. Now things could always change, especially with AI having the ability to opt out, but I think the Nuggets will still need to get a PG, unless they make a trade for one. Lawson is very fast, and has a good handle. He can get rattled, but Denver has enough weapons that he won’t have to do too much, so he should fit in nicely.

21. New Jersey Nets

- Chase Budinger, SG/SF, Arizona

In the last mock I had Batum going here, but only because Budinger was off the boards. I think that Budinger is a better fit for this team. The Nets are set with starters at PG, SG, and SF. But they really don’t have any depth behind Carter and Jefferson, so a sweet shooting wing with the size to play both positions would be ideal with their second pick. I could also see the Nets trying to move this pick, if they aren’t satisfied with who is left on the boards at this point in the draft.

22. Orlando Magic

- DJ White, PF, Indiana

I think White is the perfect fit for this team. SG is a need for them, but they are going to need to play JJ Reddick before they can decided that its worth spending a 1st round pick on two seasons in a row, and Keith Bogans has decided to not opt out. White should be ready to contribute minutes quickly, and give Dwight Howard some breathing room down low. White’s game is a good balance to Howard as he loves to rebound and shove around people in the low post, complementing his power, with Dwights finesse post moves.

23. Utah jazz

- Kosta Koufos, C, Ohio State

Mehmet Okur got destroyed by Pau Gasol, showing that they need to upgrade here. I think the Jazz may also think shooting guard, but this is a deep enough class at SG, that they should be able to find some scoring in the second round. Koufos has been called a young Big Z, and that would fit this team perfectly. Koufos has more size that Okur, but he still has shooting ability and can move up and down the court. This would allow Utah to have both size and still have shooting from their center.

24. Seattle SuperSonics

- JaVale McGee, C, Nevada

The Sonics could use a center, because Chris Wilcox is more of a PF. McGee could be that guy for them. They have tried for years to find a center and non of them have worked out, but this might be the turning point for Seattle. JaVale is athletic, while the centers the Sonics have drafted in the past are more lumbering and traditional, I think he could bring some added depth to the 5 and eventually become a starter there.

25. Houston Rockets

- Nicolas Batum, SF, France

Nicolas Batum is what this team needs, unless they decide that they need to get a backup C for Yao Ming (in that case I could see Roy Hibbert going here. But Batum can come in and immediately contribute off the bench at both the 2 and 3. His passing ability is a huge necessity as this team is stocked with players that need the ball (McGrady, Head, Ming, Jones) and not enough distrubutors.

26. San Antonio Spurs

- Chris-Douglas Roberts, SG, Memphis

I don’t think the Spurs will pick up an international player this time, as Tiago Splitter has put a bad taste in their mouth. The Spurs also showed their first big hole this season with Micheal Finley and Manu Ginobli. CDR would be a perfect fit for this team, that needs some youth and energy at shooting guard. Roberts has size and speed, which would come in handy coming off the bench, and when everyone else has tired legs later in games.

27. New Orleans Hornets

- Bill Walkers, SG/SF, Kansas State

Bill Walker is my pick for biggest sleeper in this draft. The same way that Monte Ellis was a late pick and has become a huge scorer and a star, I think Bill Walker will follow in his steps. If Walker is drafted by the Hornets he is in the perfect place to excel. The Hornets need to upgrade at Shooting guard, Morris Peterson is a good shooter, but he isn’t a starter, he is more of a role player. This team needs a dynamic scorer who can shoot the three, and is also big enough to cause match up problems if need be.

28. Memphis Grizzlies

- Roy Hibbert, C, Georgetown

With the Grizzlies picking up PF earlier they might look for Roy Hibbert here. They won’t have the most athletic frontcourt, but he can give them team a dependable big man who is a true space eater. having Darkko on the roster, means that they won’t need to start Roy right away, and he can get some time to develop. Definitely not a sexy pick, but a safe one, and that seems to be what the Grizzlies need right now.

29. Detroit Pistons

- Joey Dorsey, PF, Memphis

The Pistons are known for taking the right people to fit their system. They hit huge with G Rodney Stuckey, and Aaron Afflalo and Jason Maxiell are coming around as well. But a defensive big man might be the next best thing for them to pick up. Dorsey is athletic and is a defensive stopper, in a Ben Wallace style. He can come in and immediately give them a big body to soak up the defensive responsibilities that come with defending a guy like KG in the postseason. But it wouldn’t surprise me at all if the Pistons traded this pick, to upgrade with veterans.

30. Boston Celtics

- Courtney Lee, SG, Western Kentucky

Ray Allen’s injuries and on-off shooting slumps have shown that they need to start grooming his eventual replacement. Lee would be a great addition as he is a really good shooter. Sitting behind Ray Allen and learning from him will only help make him an even better shooting guard. He should be able to contribute from day one. The Celtics could go center here, but finding Allen’s future is a little more pressing, as they can always shift Garnett to center and insert Big Baby Glenn Davis for size.

2008 NBA Mock Draft v.1

So on Tuesday night the NBA draft lottery selections happened. The Bulls pulled the big upset moving all the way to Number 1. Now that the order is finalized I’m going to release the first version of my 2008 NBA mock draft. I went with selections that in my gut teams would make (some of these picks won’t happen because I think teams will trade up and down, especially a team like Seattle, which could both trade up or down.

1. Chicago Bulls

- Micheal Beasley, PF, Kansas State

The Chicago Bulls are going to agonize over who to take, the Speedy chicago native at the point, or the scoring/rebounding big man they’ve always needed? Well here’s teh thing, I like Derrick Rose alot, and I think if the bulls took him, Kirk Hinrich could move over to his natural position of SG, and then the Bulls could trade a SG away or let Ben Gordon go as a restricted free agent and still have alot of depth. And as much as I like that, I still recognize that this is a team that needs a low post scorer and defender. Joakim Noah looks like he can be their center of the future, and Aaron Gray has proven he can soak up some minutes for Noah, but this team has no one at the 4. Nocini isn’t a PF, Tyrus Thomas doesn’t fit their need (he’s an energy guy, but not a scorer or scrapper), and is Drew Gooden will be a free agent at the end of the 08 season. With that said this team needs Beasley more than they need Rose. Beasley is exactly what a team in the east needs, a big man who can score (like Rasheed, Garnett, Jamison, etc) and he’s no slouch in the rebounding department either. Beasley gives them stability, and Ironically, I think he solves their point guard problem. A package including Tyrus Thomas, Drew Gooden’s expiring Contract, and possibly Ben Gordon, or maybe a pick in 09, should be able to get them a PG that they feel is more suitable for this team, a Kyle Lowery or Marcus Williams would come pretty cheap, and not force them to sell the farm. Or use the whole package for someone like Jose Calderon or TJ Ford. There are alot of good point guards to be had, but I don’t know about you, but I don’t see another possible 20-10 guy that they could trade for, who wouldn’t be well well over priced (they don’t have the cap to sign an Antwan Jamison anyway).

That said Micheal Beasley is the total package. He can shoot from 3, he has the heart of a winner, he is willing to attack down low, and isn’t afraid to take the last shot. He has range from everywhere and rebounds aggressively. I can only imagine the heart and fire that a Noah-Beasley tandem could create, and think that that might be to hard to pass up for the Bulls.

Similar to: Rasheed Wallace

2. Miami Heat

- Derrick Rose, PG, Memphis

The Heat will be jumping for joy if Derrick Rose falls to them at 2. They have a more than serviceable 4 with Udonis Haslem, so he would be exactly what they are looking for. Rose brings the speed that would give this team one of the most Dynamic Back courts in the league, with a Healthy Dwayne Wade, and a PG who can keep up with his speed, and has the vision to get to him where ever he is this could be the move that helps keep dwayne wade as a Heat player come the summer of 2010. Rose is a good shooter, his speed was unmatched in the NCAA and should still be pretty top flight in the NBA, if Rose isn’t here at the second pick, expect the Heat to either put a trade in place (shipping out, Haslem, either Blount or Banks, for a PG) for getting their PG and taking Beasley, or trading out of the second spot to acquire a PG (like a sign and trade for a big name PG, but requiring the team that takes the number two pick to grab like Banks/Blouts contract).

Similar to: Devin Harris

3. Minnesota Timberwolves

- Brook Lopez, C, Stanford

I think the Timberwolves are going to want to protect their franchise player. I think watching how Dwight Howard was bombarded in the playoffs by not having another big man to protect him, is going to make the Wolves think that they should do the same. If Lopez can start at Center, Jefferson can rotate over to PF where he would be even more effective. The Wolves still have some backcourt questions, but I don’t think they have given up on playing Foye at the point, and with him their they have several, at the very least, serviceable SGs they can cycle through (Rashad McCants and Corey Brewer) next to him.

Similar to: Chris Kamen

4. Seattle Supersonics

- DJ Augustin, PG, Texas

Now here is where my selections differ from most peoples mock drafts. I don’t see Jerryd Bayless as the next best PG. I like Augustin here because this is a team that needs a PG who is a traditional PG. Bayless is a combo guard, and for a team that is lacking in the scoring department he would be the perfect fit, but they need someone who can handle the ball all of the time. Now I know this king of a PG works for some teams (like Gilbert Arenas), but I think that having a none scoring Shooting Guard makes it a necessity for them, as opposed to the sonics where they have scorers that need to become better defenders. Augustin’s familiarity with Durant can’t be ignored either, if you want to see Durant’s shooting average improve pair him with someone you know he is comfortable with. I know for some his height is a problem, but look at Chris Paul who is only 6′ (an inch taller than Augustin), I think that makes the most sense.

Similar to: Rafer Alston

5. Memphis Grizzlies

- Eric Gordon, SG, Indiana

Memphis Grizzlies ownership has stated that their focus is to become a better defensive team. This team needs to upgrade at the 4, but there isn’t one that fits their needs available at this pick. Instead, I think to show there commitment to be better defensively, they should upgrade at SG. Especially in a division that houses both Manu Ginobili and Tracy McGrady someone who can defend the two would be a big benefit. At the same time Gordon is no slouch when it comes to scoring. He started his college career on fire, and looked like he was going to lock up the Number 3 prospect on the board, at times challenging for the No. 2 spot in my mind, but his wrist injury and the coaching turmoil really took him out of rhytem. Gordon will find his touch again, and a potent trio of Gordon, Conley, and Gay could be a power for time to come, if they find a PF.

Similar to: Joe Johnson

6. New York Knicks

- Russell Westbrook, PG, UCLA

This is hands down the toughest pick for me to make. In the past Mike D’Antoni hasn’t liked playing his rookies much, but with this high a pick he is going to have to play who ever he takes quickly. I think there are 4 players in the mix with the 6th pick. Jerryd Bayless would give the Knicks a point guard, who can also be a pretty potent scorer, but he can play out of control and with D’Antoni’s system that may not work out. Russell Westbrook is all potential, he never really had to be a full time point guard having Darren Collison next to him, but he has the speed and defensive capabilities that the Knicks need. Danillo Galliberi, the most ready player that fits D’Antoni’s system, he’s pretty quick for his size, and can knock down the mid range jumper creating match up problems since he can play the 3 and 4, but he can be too passive and doesn’t have 3 point range making him a little to much like David Lee with a better handle. The last player in the mix is OJ Mayo, Mayo is a scoring Machine who can open fire from anywhere on the court, he is a good shooter, but he could be a headache waiting to happen on a team that already has Stephon Marbury, and a gluttony of Shooting guards (Jamal Crawford, Quentin Richardson, and Nate Robinson). With that said, I think the Knicks will pick up Russell Westbrook, he has the most potential, and the Knicks have been drafting Roleplayers for too long (Lee, Balkman, Collins, Robinson, Chandler, etc), they need to draft someone who can become a star for them.

Similar too: Baron Davis

7. Los Angeles Clippers

- OJ Mayo, G, USC

The clippers are in a good spot, they can grab Jerryd Bayless, or they can draft OJ Mayo. I think they will lean towards Mayo. This is a team that most likely is going to lose Corey Maggette and all of his scoring, and possibly Elton Brand and all of his scoring. Adding Mayo may be the pefect choice for them, he can spend a little time a PG while they wait on Shaun Livingston, or he can be the scorer they need. Having a team with at least Al Thorton, OJ Mayo, and Chris Kamen, are good building blocks going forward. The Clippers might be a team that wants to drop back and pick up an extra pick, but that will depend on if Elton brand and Maggette both use their ETOs.

Similarities: Jerry Stackhouse

8. Milwaukee Bucks

- Danilo Gallinari, F, Italy

Similar to : Boris Diaw

9. Charlotte Bobcats

- DeAndre Jordan, C, Texas A&M

Similar to: Tyson Chandler

10. New Jersey Nets

- Anthony Randolph, PF, LSU

Similar to: Josh Smith

11. Indiana Pacers

- Jerryd Bayless, PG, Arizona

I think the Pacers will trade down if they are left in this position. There is little doubt in my mind they will draft a PG with their first pick, making Bayless the obvious choice if he fell into their laps. This could all change if Jermaine O’Neal opts out of his contract (if he did it would be to do a Grant hill, not for another big contract). If that happens I think the Pacers may take Kosta Koufos here instead, giving them immediate size that they will be longing for. Anyway, back to Bayless,Jerryd is a scoring PG who has good size and speed. He can see the floor well, and is her athletic. He is a bit of a tweener, but I think for this current roster that will be ok.

Similar to: Keyon Dooling

12. Sacremento Kings

- Darrel Arthur, PF, Kansas

Similar too: Josh Howard

13. Portland Trailblazers

- Chase Budinger, SG/SF, Arizona

The trailblazers are able to take whoever they want at this pick, as they are really set with their starting lineup of Steve Blake, Brandon Roy, Martell Webster/Travis Outlaw, Lamarcus Aldridge, and Greg Oden. The one thing this team could use is a little more scoring off the bench, the tried to find that with James Jones last season, but his shooting has really gone down lately. I think for that reason teh trailblazers would want to have someone who can really shoot the rock, he isn’t a streaky 3-point shooter (which might turn them away from Donte Green and Joe Alexander). Budinger would really make the bench very very strong for the blazers, having Jack to releave Blake, Budinger for Roy, Outlaw at the 3, McRoberts at the 4, and Channing Frye at the 5 sounds like a deep team with good trading chips if need be for the future.

Similar to: Quentin Richardson (before the back problems)

14. Golden State Warriors

- Donte Green, SF, Syracuse

Similar to: Matt Barnes

15. Phoenix Suns

- Joe Alexander, SF, West Virginia

Similar to: Manu Ginobili

16. Philadelphia 76ers

- Kevin Love, PF, UCLA

The 76ers developed into a pretty good team this season. Behind the stable play of Samuel Dalembert, the great floor leadership of Andre Miller, the development of Thaddeus Young, and contining advancement of Andre Iguodola they came together as a team. This also gives them a starter at 4 of the five positions. Dalembert needs help in the post, Thaddeus Young can help there, but he is more a 3. Love would give them exactly what they need, another big body to help keep defenders off of Dalmbert and the lane clear for the 76er’s wing players. If Arthur slips this far I think the 6ers would gladly take him over Love though. Love has a very good fundamentals, but he isn’t very athletic. He has lost some weight since the end of the season and I think that will help him alot in the NBA.

Similar to: Tim Duncan

17. Toronto Raptors

- Robin Lopez, C, Stanford

Similar to: Joakim Noah

18. Washington Wizards

- Maresse Spreights, C, Florida

Similar to: Elton Brand

19. Cleveland Cavaliers

- Brandon Rush, SG, Kansas

Rush would be a perfect fit for the cavs. This is a team that has problems creating shots for themselves out side of the front court of Lebron, Smith, and Big Z. Wally and Gibson are good shooters, but they are both defensive liabilities (for Ginbson its mostly his height). Rush would help give them a defensive presence at 2, who isn’t scoring inept (unlike Ben Wallace and Anderson Varejao). I think if a PG were to slip to here that had some height the Cavs would want to take him over Rush. But if not Rush could be their guy, I don’t see CDR as an option, because he is essentually Larry Hughes all over again, great player, but not a fit for this team.

Similar to: Eddie Jones

20. Denver Nuggets

- Ty Lawson, PG, UNC

Similar to: TJ Ford

21. New Jersey Nets

- Nicolas Batum, SF, France

The Nets need to find some depth at the 2 or 3. Batum would solve both of them, he doesn’t have to come over immediately but if he does that would work out fine. Batum is a good shooter, and would be a nice complement to Jefferson or Carter. If Jefferson does leave town, he is probably one of the more ready players to start a team at the SF position.

Similar to: Josh Childress

22. Orlando Magic

- DJ White, PF, Indiana

Now I’m sure alot of people like someone like JJ Hickson here, but I think White is the perfect fit for this team. SG is a need for them, but they are going to need to play JJ Reddick before they can decided that its worth spending a 1st round pick on two seasons in a row. White should be ready to contribute minutes quickly, and give Dwight Howard some breathing room down low. White’s game is a good balance to Howard as he loves to rebound and shove around people in the low post, complementing his power, with Dwights finesse post moves.

Similar to: Kenyon Martin (post knee injuries)

23. Utah Jazz

- Kosta Koufos, C, Ohio State

Similar to: Zydrunas Ilgauskas

24. Seattle SuperSonics

- JaVale McGee, PF, Nevada

Similar to: Antonio McDycess

25. Houston Rockets

- Chris-Douglas Roberts, SG, Memphis

CDR fits this team really well. The Rockets need to find a shooting guard who can slash, they have enough shooters in Luther Head, McGrady, Alston, and Battier. So someone who can attack the rim and has the athleticism to catch the great passes that McGrady and Skip can make would be best. Essentually it would be the team trying again, since the Bonzi Wells experiment didn’t work out.

Similar to: Larry Hughes

26. San Antonio Spurs

- Roy Hibbert, C, Georgetown

Roy Hibbert is exactly what the Spurs need. Oberto is a good complement for Duncan, but they need to find depth behind him. Elson wasn’t the answer, but i think Hibbert would work out perfectly. Hibbert has the size and low post skills to complement duncan’s game. Hibberts increased range over the past season will help him out too, as will being able to watch Duncan.

Similar to: Zach Randolph

27. New Orleans Hornets

- Bill Walker, G/F, Kansas State

Bill Walker is my pick for biggest sleeper in this draft. The same way that Monte Ellis was a late pick and has become a huge scorer and a star, I think Bill Walker will follow in his steps. If Walker is drafted by the Hornets he is in the perfect place to excell. The Hornets need to upgrade at Shooting guard, Morris Peterson is a good shooter, but he isn’t a starter, he is more of a role player. This team needs a dynamic scorer who can shoot the three, and is also big enough to cause match up problems if need be.

Similar to: Vince Carter

28. Memphis Grizzlies

- J.J. Hickson, PF, NC State

J.J.Hickson is a little raw, but he brings the power at the 4, to balance the scoring of Hakim Warrick. I think Hickson will need time to develop a complete game, and should be able to find it on a team that is trying to develop itself.

Similar to: Luis Scola

29. Detroit Pistons

- Serge Ibaka, PF, Congo

The Pistons have built up pretty well for the future, but I guess if they needed to add someone it would be Serge Ibaka, he would probably be the highest rated player on their board by the time they were drafting. He would also give them more bodies to deal with the dominant big men in the east (Dwight and Garnett).

Similar to: David West

30. Boston Celtics

- Courtney Lee, SG, Western Kentucky

Ray Allen’s disappearance in the playoffs has shown that they need to start grooming his eventual replacement. Lee would be a great addition as he is a really good shooter. Sitting behind Ray Allen and learning from him will only help make him an even better shooting guard. Should be able to contribute from day one. The Celtics could go center here, but finding Allen’s future is a little more pressing, as they can always shift Garnett to center and insert Big Baby Glenn Davis for size.

Similar to: Daniel Gibson

—————————————-

I’ll do another mock draft, as we get closer to the draft as trades and free agency starts to hit. I will post a Mock round two though, in the coming week(s).

Best of the Year 2008

Best of the week is now best of the year being that the real season is upon us. Now is the time for all of the post season awards to come rolling out. The Sixth Man of the Year and the Defensive Player of the Year have already been announced and I agree unanimously.Â Â

Letâ€™s get started with the top 5 Rookies of 2007-08.Â

5.) Thaddeus Young: A big reason for the Sixers being in the playoffs and a big part of their future. He is only 19 and has tons of what they call â€œupside.â€Â

4.) Luis Scola: When Ming went down, Scola and fellow rookie Carl Landry was a big reason for the Rockets streak. He is old compared to other rookies, but his first season in the NBA was a good one.Â

3.) Al Thornton: Other than Durant, he may be the best scorer among the rookies. He averaged 15.6 PPG in games in which he started, which included 3 games of over 30 points.Â

2.) Al Horford: He was a starter from the beginning of the season and just missed out on averaging a double-double. He has the makings of a 20-10 guy, possibly even by next year.Â

1.) Kevin Durant: His shot selection could use some work, but he averaged over 20 PPG and with some added size his rebounding and shot blocking should improve. He is the easy Rookie of the Year.Â

Here are the top 5 Most Improved Players for 2008.Â

5.) Chris Kaman: He turned into a dominant big man in the absence of Elton Brand. I doubt many thought Kaman could turn into an offensive presence in the NBA,Â and he is a rebounding and a shot blocking force. He blew away all of his career highs, and the only reason he is not higher on this list is because he only played in 56 games.Â

4.) Mike Dunleavy: We have been waiting on Dunleavy to produce since he came into the league. The former overall number 3 pick finally did this year, averaging almost 20 PPG while putting up decent rebounding and assist totals.Â

3.) Danny Granger: Granger is a big man that likes to play out on the wing. He is a deadly three-point shooter who bumped up his scoring average from 13 to almost 20 to lead the Pacers.Â

2.) Rudy Gay: Gay doubled his point total from last year and is also a respectable rebounder. His defense has improved as well with fantasy worthy numbers in steals and blocks. Gay has the makings of a superstar and a 25 PPG scorer.Â

1.) Hedo Turkoglu: Turkoglu has always had the potential to be a 20 PPG scorer in the league and this year he finally came through, averaging 19.5 PPG. The biggest improvement for Hedo came in his assists; He went from 3.2 per game to 5.0. Orlando gave him more responsibility this year and Turkoglu took advantage.Â

Next postÂ we will get down to who should be the MVP of the league and the debate is hot.

Best of the Week (Mar. 24-30)

5.)Â Josh Howard: 46.5% FG, 90.6% FT, 32.7 PPG, 7.0 Reb, 2.0 StlÂ

Someone has to fill the shoes of Nowitzki, and Howard is trying his best.Â However, the Mavs have lost 5 of their last 6 and things are not looking good.Â Howard is an all-star caliber player as you can see by his stats, but the Mavs need Dirk if they are going to win any games in the playoffs, or even make the playoffs.Â

4.)Â Danny Granger: 89.5% FT, 23.7 PPG, 7.0 Reb, 4.3 Ast, 1.0 Stl, 2.0 BlkÂ

Granger is having a break out season for the Pacers and can be the cornerstone of their rebuilding in the future.Â He can score from anywhere on the court, and he showed his passing abilities over the past week.Â

3.)Â Amare Stoudemire: 63.1% FG, 84.4% FT, 30.0 PPG, 8.3 Reb, 2.8 Ast, 2.0 BlkÂ

I think he has made this list every week since Marion was sent to Miami.Â There is not much to be said that has not been said before about Amare.Â He will challenge LeBron and Kobe for the scoring title next season.Â

2.)Â Carmelo Anthony: 58.8% FG, 26.7 PPG, 8.7 Reb, 6.3 Ast, 2.7 StlÂ

Carmelo is one to the top scorers in the league and he does it week in and week out.Â He is also a capable rebounder and an excellent passer.Â If Denver were playing in the East they would be the 3^rd best team.Â Carmelo is about as consistent a player is there is in the NBA, but he looked just a bit better than normal this past week.Â

1.)Â Carlos Boozer: 66.7% FG, 84.6% FT, 29.0 PPG, 13.3 Reb, 3.0 Ast, 1.3 Stl, 1.0 BlkÂ

Boozer has become one of the very top players in the league over the past two seasons.Â His bulk gets him his rebounds, but his basketball skills make him an excellent scorer and passer.Â He takes good shots and forces the issue which sends him to the free throw line where he converts those into points.Â He makes Utah a tough match-up.Â

Honorable Mention:Â Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Jason Richardson, David West, Vince Carter, Caron Butler, Dwight Howard, Andrew Bogut

Best of the Week (Mar. 17-23)

5.)Â Al Horford: 70.4% FG, 100.0% FT, 14.3 PPG, 13.3 Reb, 5.0 Ast, 1.3 BlkÂ

It has been an up and down season for the rookie big man, but he has helped Atlanta win 4 of their last 5. As it stands now, Atlanta is now in the last playoff spot in the East.Â Watch out for this guy next year; notice the assists.Â

4.)Â Chris Paul: 68.2% FG, 25.7 PPG, 3.7 Reb, 10.0 Ast, 3.0 Stl, 1.0 BlkÂ

Paul is making a late push for the MVP, and if the Hornets finish with the best record in the West he may just get it. His stats for this past week are nothing new for him except that he scored a few more points. If you are thinking New Orleans is still not for real, you need to push that crack pipe out of arms reach.Â

3.)Â Mo Williams: 65.4%FG, 80.0% FT, 27.5 PPG, 12.0 Ast, 5.0 RebÂ

Williams is one of those under-the-radar kind of guys, because he plays in Milwaukee. He came off an injury with a bang and continued with his best season to date.Â He is a small guard that rebounds well and when he is hot; he can score with anyone in the league. Â

2.)Â Vince Carter: 52.2% FG, 91.7% FT, 30.0 PPG, 7.0 Reb, 5.8 Ast, 1.5 StlÂ

Carter has caught fire for the playoff push, but the Nets are losing anyway.Â He seems to be playing better without Kidd, but the team is not. They are still only a game behind the Hawks for the last playoff spot, so Carter will probably continue his hot streak.Â

1.)Â Lamar Odom: 46.3% FG, 86.4% FT, 17.5 PPG, 15.8 Reb, 4.0 Ast, 1.3 Stl, 1.3 BlkÂ

Odom has been a monster in the wake of the injuries to Bynum and Gasol.Â He hasnâ€™t been scoring 30 a night, but he is doing everything on the court.Â Since the Gasol injury, he has been more valuable to the team than Kobe.Â In Sundayâ€™s lost to Golden State, Odomâ€™s line was 19 points, 22 rebounds (9 offensive), 4 assists, 4 blocks, and 2 steals. He has always had this talent; he just only gives it to us in little bursts.Â

Honorable Mention: Allen Iverson, LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, David West, Mike Dunleavy, Dirk Nowitzki, Danny Granger, Antawn Jamison

Best of the Week (Feb. 26-Mar. 2)

5.)Â Mike Dunleavy: 52.2% FG, 79.5% FT, 28.5 PPG, 3.0 Ast, 3.3 3PTâ€™s

Dunleavy is one of many having a break-out season this year, but he really stepped it up over the past week.Â His stroke from all over the court was dead on, and he hit for over 30 twice in the week.Â He has gotten much more aggressive, as he attempted 39 free throws in only 3 games.

4.)Â Amare Stoudemire: 62.3% FG, 88.9% FT, 27.7 PPG, 10.7 Reb, 1.7 Blk

I said last week that Stoudemire may average 30 per game for the rest of the season, and it looks like it may happen.Â With Marion gone and Shaq only getting about 10 PPG, Amare has to score more and he is doing it.Â Look at that FT%–maybe he can teach Shaq how to shoot those.

3.)Â Monta Ellis: 57.1% FG, 9/9 FT, 24.3 PPG, 6.7 Reb, 5.3 Ast, 1.3 Stl

Ellis had a big week, but he is having a big year also.Â He is shooting 53.2 percent from the floor for the year.Â That is amazing for a perimeter player.Â He is a more athletic version of Rip Hamilton.

2.)Â Dirk Nowitzki: 46.5% FG, 86.5% FT, 30.3 PPG, 9.8 Reb, 3.5 Ast, 1.8 Stl

He lost the battle Sunday with Kobe, but not for lack of trying.Â Dirkâ€™s slow start to the season is ancient history now.Â Dirk has put himself onto the short list of MVP candidates.Â The playoffs in the West are going to be interesting and star studded.

1.)Â Kobe Bryant: 50.0% FG, 82.0% FT, 34.0 PPG, 7.0 Reb, 6.0 Ast, 2.0 Stl, 1.0 Blk

He has some helpÂ this year, and he still managed to go for over 50 in a big game.Â As a pure scorer, Kobe has no match in the league and heÂ proves it week in and week out.Â This season Kobe may be looking at an MVP trophy and a trip to the finals.

Honorable Mention: Lebron James, Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Beno Udrih, Hedo Turkoglu, and Allen Iverson

NBA Catchup and Bones’ Thoughts of Trademania

Sorry all for the complete lack attention I have given my blogs and the website and of course my 4 fans (looking at you teamsuck).Â I was back-packing through Europe, met some hot chicks at a hostel,Â wound up gagged and tied in some crazy factory,Â then had to biteÂ through a guy’s nose before escaping.Â Thinking about writing a screenplay about it actually.Â Â So here’s my quick catchup and thoughts on the craziness that has happened the past couple of weeks with a little Stephen A. Smith color commentary.

Â Gasol Trade - Just amazing fleece job by the Lakers.Â I mean really, you’re not going to go after any of the top 5 young guys on LA? You trade a perennial all-star for the upside on his youngerÂ brother? Looking like Kobe’s hand injury could end the possibility of this being so big for this year(um and who else is a little worried for the Olympics), but think about Bynum, Gasol, and Kobe for the next 5 years of their prime.Â Can I bet odds on the 2008-09 NBA champions yet?

Stephen AÂ - I JUST HATE THIS TRADE FOR THE GRIZZLIES, JUST DONT MAKE NO SENSE.Â BUT AS MUCH AS I HATE IT, I LOVE IT.Â DOES ANYONE ELSE THINK I WOULD MAKE A GREAT ADDITION TO CSI:MIAMI?

Shaq Trade - Wow, Steve Kerr! Have to agree with Sports Guy here about having some fuckin’ balls.Â I love it in all regards. I haven’t seen Shaq this pumped since he read the script to Kazaam.Â If you been crushed the last two yearsÂ in the playoffs bc Amare can’t cover Duncan, Nowitski, insert anyone in the NBA, your grandmother, why wouldn’t you rid yourself of the locker room cancer to get Shaq,Â hope he eats his wheaties, and can play solid D the rest of the year.Â I also think people forget how much money Marion makes.Â On the flip side, Heat can use the rest of the season to see if Wade and Marion can gel and take one of the top picks on a point guard (just please have the sense to take DJ Augustin from Texas over Paulus or anyone else that is white)

Â Stephen A. - WHAT IS STEVE KERR THINKING TRADING FOR A WASHED UP SHAQ?Â FORGET THE CHAMPIONSHIP EXPERIENCE, I WAS TWICE THE PLAYER SHAQ WAS.Â I AM NOT YELLING!!

Â The Kidd Fiasco - Come on now, someone from the writer’s guild got bored while on strike, pitched this idea to David Stern, who then kidnapped Cuban and whoever owns the Nets’ families, forcing them to make it play out this way.Â I just love this, so amazing for the NBA right meow.Â I mean another blockbuster, only to be nixed by a crazy no trade clause,Â workÂ magicÂ to have that basically figured out, to then have Stackhouse run his mouth about re-signing with the Mavs in 30 days, so the NBA basically has to nix the deal or throw their own rules down the drain.Â So Much Drama and Steve Kerr and Tim Duncan sit back and laugh.

Â Stephen A. - YOU’VE SEEN WHAT THESE GUNS CAN DO IN THE MIDDLE EAST! NOW I WANT TO SHOW YOU WHAT THEY CAN DO IN THE RING!!

Â Slam Dunk Contest - I am unbelievably excited for this contest as a bunch of young guys seem incredibly hungry for the title.Â Â Howard issued the 12 foot rim challenge, Gay answered with I can do whatever you can do better, andÂ returning champÂ Gerald Green followed suit with “12 feet might be a little short, I’ll hit 13!”Â This is going to be an unbelievable showcase of theseÂ kid’s ridiculous talents.Â Who wouldn’t want to see this?Â Ohhh the NBA doesn’t.Â I am in awe right now.Â You have the most publicity going in the sport in 3 years, some pumped up young kids, and you go and reject any request whatsoever.Â If Dwight Howard came to you and said I need the Pussycat Dolls, 2 cases of cheez whiz, one of those dragon heads they have in Chinese parades, and Greg Oden’s birth certificate from the vault, YOU STILL SAY YES.Â

Â I’ll probably still watch, TNT Sat. night at 8pm

Stephen A. - JUST AN ABSOLUTE ABOMINADADANATION BY THE LEAGUE! I WANT HOLYFIELD!!

Most Overrated Players in the NBA

We all have in mind those players in the NBA that seem to get a lot of attention for very little productivity.Â These players always seem to fall below what is expected of them, yet when the next year comes around there they are, all hyped up again.Â Of course, I could have simply listed the entire starting lineup of the Knicks, but that would have been too easy.

Here is a list of what I think are the top 5 most overrated players in the NBA.Â

5.)Â Jermaine Oâ€™Neal:

His numbers are at a career low.Â Now I will admit that when he is healthy he can be a beast.Â The problem is he has reached a point in his career where he can no longer stay healthy.Â Over the past 3 Â½ seasons he has played in less than 69% of the Pacers games.Â This year he is averaging only 15.3 PPG and only 7.3 rebounds.Â For an interior player he has an extremely low FG%–44% over the past year and a half.Â If you canâ€™t stay healthy, you canâ€™t help your team.Â

4.)Â Larry Hughes:

I have learned to no longer expect anything from Hughes.Â He is injured every year.Â He has produced some decent numbers in the past, but I think those days are over.Â He is shooting only 33.3% from the field and averaging only 9.4 PPG.Â He had two good seasons in Washington (he missed 21 games both of those seasons) and everyone thought he could be a star in the league.Â I feel sorry for Lebron, because this guy is supposed to be his help.Â

3.)Â Stephon Marbury:

This one just may be too easy.Â In those seasons when he was putting up numbers there was a knock on his game, and now he is not even putting up numbers.Â For some reason though, a lot of people are still waiting for him to break out and put some sort of stamp on his career.Â The guy is 31 and been in the league for 12 years.Â I think that stamp has already been applied.Â He is a whiner that is overpaid and appears to have his glory days behind him.Â This will be the third straight season in which he will average less than 17 points and less than 7 assists.Â

2.)Â Ben Wallace:

I wonder if there are any players in the league that are still intimidated when they go in the lane with Big Ben standing there.Â This is the 5^th straight season in which Wallaceâ€™s rebounding and shot blocking averages are down.Â He is now nothing but an above average rebounder and shot blocker, and he still has not one offensive bone in his body.Â He was paid big bucks by Chicago to be an intimidating presence in the middle.Â The only thing intimidating about Big Ben anymore is his contract.Â Â

1.)Â Shaquille Oâ€™Neal:

It is a sad thing to see the big fella lumbering around like he was 45 years old.Â He seems like he should be old.Â He looks like he is old.Â He is only 35 years old.Â Should he be slowing down at the age of 35? Yes.Â But Shaq looks like he should retire.Â I donâ€™t know if I have ever seen someone so dominant go downhill so fast (Shawn Kemp maybe).Â Shaq is only scoring 14 points per game and grabbing 7.9 rebounds.Â He only averaged 7.4 rebounds last year.Â How can a guy that is 7-1 and 325 pounds only get 7 rebounds per game?Â Shaq has not been motivated to play since Miami won the title.Â I donâ€™t think he will ever again be motivated to get himself into playing shape.Â He is still young enough and he still has the skills.Â

Shaq simply does not have the heart anymore, and that is why he is the most overrated player in the NBA.

Worst of the Week (Jan. 7-13)

Some weeks are good and some weeks are bad; for these guys it was a bad week.Â

Delonte West:Â 22.2% FG, 50% FT, 4.3 PPG, 4.3 Ast

He was a piece in the Ray Allen deal and was supposed to give the Sonics solid PG play.Â That has not happened, and the Sonics have been doing PG by committee (which has worked out horribly you will see later).Â Delonte is not the starter, but he is consistently getting 20-25 minutes per game.Â He is not shooting well, obviously, but he is the most talented PG on their team.Â Maybe he needs the starting gig to find his rhythm.Â

Andrea Bargnani:Â 40% FG, 5.7 PPG, 2.0 Reb, No Blocks

The number 1 overall pick from 2006 has not panned out thus far.Â He showed some flashes the week before last, but then he had a week like this. He is young, but in an era were there are 18 and 19 year-olds playing well, that is really not much of an excuse for this 22 year-old.Â He had a 25 point game on Jan.4, but he has yet to score more than 7 since.Â The disturbing thing for this 6-10 guy 250-pounder is his lack of rebounding and shot blocking.Â

Quentin Richardson:Â 21.4% FG, 2.8 PPG, 2.3 Reb

This guy is still starting!Â I donâ€™t understand why you would start a guy and then let him play only 11 minutes.Â He is playing horribly right now (this is his second week in a row on this list), but either let him play through it (he does have some talent) or donâ€™t start him.Â This is the Knicks we are talking about, so who am I to question.Â Richardson may be having the worst shooting season of anyone this year.Â He is shooting only 30.9% from the field and 60% from the line for the season.Â Â Â Â

Earl Watson:Â 18.2% FG, 50% FT, 4 PPG, 3.3 Ast

These are the stats for the starting PG for the Sonics.Â That makes 2/3 of the committee, Luke Ridnour being left out, on the worst of list.Â Watson was coming off a good week; a week were he had a 20 point effort and an 18 point effort.Â That is the thing with these guys.Â They are all serviceable PGâ€™s, but they just canâ€™t seem to get it together this year in Seattle.Â They will have one good week followed by 2 or 3 horrible weeks.Â Â

Morris Peterson:Â 23.1% FG, 2.7 PPG, 2 Reb, 0.3 Ast

Moâ€™ Pete had a horrible week shooting the ball, and the tragedy is that he really brings little else to the table.Â He doesnâ€™t play defense, he doesnâ€™t rebound, and he doesnâ€™t distribute the ball.Â Luckily for New Orleans, they have a good all-around team, and they can bring Bobby Jackson off the bench when Mo isnâ€™t shooting so well.Â Jackson is 6 inches shorter than Peterson, yet he still gets nearly as many rebounds and works harder on defense.Â I think a change is in order.Â

Here are a few more guys who may need to self-medicate after their performance over the past week.Â

Un-honorable mention:Â Ray Allen, Peja Stojakovic, Ricky Davis, Brendan Haywood, Sam Cassell, Troy Murphy, Yi Jianlian

keep looking »

Indiana Pacers

Indiana Pacers - Off-season and Financial Moves

2008 NBA Mock Draft v.2

2008 NBA Mock Draft v.1

Best of the Year 2008

Best of the Week (Mar. 24-30)

Best of the Week (Mar. 17-23)

Best of the Week (Feb. 26-Mar. 2)

NBA Catchup and Bones’ Thoughts of Trademania

Most Overrated Players in the NBA

Worst of the Week (Jan. 7-13)

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