Washington Wizards

Washington Wizards - Off-season and Financial Moves

Going into this off-season, no team in the NBA faced more potential for upheaval than the Wizards. Two of their three best players, Antawn Jamison and Gilbert Arenas, were unrestricted free agents who were highly sought after. Indeed, these two players represented two of the best players available, if not the top two.

Early talk from the two free agents indicated that they wanted to continue playing together, and they preferred that happen in DC. But with the amount of money Jamison was accustomed to making added to the amount of money Arenas was expecting to be paid, it didn’t look like the Wizards could afford both without seriously overextending the payroll over the dreaded tax threshold.

But then Jamison did something you do not normally see NBA players who are still in their primes do – he took a pay cut. He accepted a 4-year, $50 million extension, which constituted about a $4 to $5 million per year reduction. Then, with Jamison safely tucked away, Arenas took a pay cut as well. The Wizards offered him the maximum, 6 years, $127 million (this was after he turned down his player option for next year, as expected). But Arenas, not wanting to hamstring the team’s ability to sign other players, agreed to $111 million instead.

In this day and age, what Jamison and Arenas did here was almost unheard of. They both left a lot of money on the table. Jamison could have made way more on the open market. Teams like the Golden State Warriors, who had a ton of cap space when Baron Davis bolted, were prepared to offer Jamison significantly more. And, if he had actually pushed for it, the Wizards themselves would have paid much more to keep him. Arenas actually negotiated the team “down” $16 million.

You just don’t see players do this nowadays – sacrifice their own bottom line out of loyalty to each other, their team and the fans. Did the Wizards get lucky here, or are they just doing things right? These two guys obviously like playing here. Throughout the whole process, which incidentally didn’t take very long at all, you never heard either player or any other player for that matter, say anything derogatory about the team, their negotiating tactics, or intimate even the slightest possibility that they were considering the idea of playing somewhere else.

This could have been a disastrous off-season for the Wizards. Instead it ended up being hardly any story at all. It was just two all-stars who liked where they were and wanted to continue working together in making their team better – and better they will be. With no financial or personnel turmoil, and a roster full of healthy, happy players, the Wizards can just go into October camp ready to get to work on removing the Orlando Magic from the top of the Southeast Division. Something tells me this team is going to be really good this year. Good enough to catch Orlando? If they can avoid the injury bug for once – certainly.

In other news, Etan Thomas is back on the court and in good shape after his open heart surgery last year. This team could use his muscle underneath. Hopefully he and Brendan Haywood will get along this time around. Haywood had his best year as a pro last year without Thomas around. The truth is the Wizards need both guys at the top of their game.

They signed former Illinois and Utah Jazz point guard Dee Brown to compete for backup minutes with Antonio Daniels. Daniels has a bum left wrist that he didn’t get fixed in the off-season. He didn’t want to miss the pre-season, so he’s risking playing with it this season. Brown was signed as a contingency.

And, they let free agent combo guard Roger Mason leave for San Antonio. With Arenas’ return, the acquisition of Brown, and the continued development of sharpshooter Nick Young, Mason’s minutes would have dwindled here anyway.

Is Williams Enough for LeBron?

Mo Williams is now LeBron’s sidekick in Cleveland, and I am sure it was good news to LeBron. I am also sure he is wondering if it is enough. Between last year and this off-season, the East has gotten tougher. The Cavs are much better with Williams, but do they need more?

Williams is something that LeBron has not had, and that is a legitimate, consistent scorer; someone who can handle the ball and create his own shot. Williams can score from anywhere on the floor and shoot for a high percentage. Last year with the Bucks, Williams shot 48% from the floor, which is excellent for a perimeter player. He also gets other players involved; averaging over 6 assists per game in 3 of the last 4 seasons.

I don’t like the rest of the Cavs team. Ilquaskas is a quality center and hasn’t missed many games over the last few years, but that injury bug still looms over his head. He is also more of a finesse player than a strong inside presence. Daniel Gibson is a nice spark off the bench and can provide some quick points from a few threes, but that’s about it. The rest of the team is really garbage. Ben Wallace is an overpaid offensive burden that is no where near the defensive and rebounding presence of a few years ago. Pavlovic is nothing special and Szczerbiak is maybe the softest player in the league other than Mo Peterson.

The Cavs will have a better regular season record than in 2007-08, and will be a tougher draw in the playoffs, but they still have to contend with the World Champs, the Pistons, an improving Magic team, and don’t forget about the Elton Brand led 76ers. Add in the Wizards and you have 6 teams in the East with the potential to win 50 games next season. This is not even considering how good the Heat could be with a healthy Wade and Shawn Marion.

Williams is a great addition to the Cavs, but the player that may make the biggest difference as to whether the Cavs can overcome the Celtics is J.J. Hickson. This kid has tons of potential and is already showing signs of greatness in the pre-season.

Hickson could be the steal of the draft and may force Ben Wallace to the bench by the end of the season. That is the only way I see the Cavs seriously challenging the Celtics come playoff time.

Williams is a step in the right direction, and Hickson was a great draft choice, but I still think the Cavs will fall short. They are one strong inside presence away from matching the Celtics.

A Brand New Man in Philly

The Celtics won the title, the Pistons were arguably the second best team in the league, and now Elton Brand has moved over to the East with Philly. Is there a shift of power? Somewhat, but the West is still the best; the East is now just a little more top heavy.

This trade of Elton Brand to Philly has changed the landscape in the East. Boston and Detroit are the top two teams, LeBron will have whatever rag tag group Cavalier management gives him near the top, and the Wizards resigned their guys and are ready for a good season in 2008-09. I think the Sixers have now moved past both the Cavaliers and the Wizards and possibly the Pistons. The Sixers starting lineup will be Dalembert, Brand, Thaddeus Young (he will be a stud), Iguodala, and Andre Miller. Of the bench will be dependable Reggie Evans, and spark plugs Louis Williams and Willie Green. They are younger, more athletic, and just as talented, as the boys in Detroit.

Detroit has the experience, but they are now in the position of trying to hold back decline due to age. Philly, other than Miller who is 32, is on the rise. Brand is in the prime of his career at only 29 and the rest of these guys are improving their game.

Even if I jump on the bandwagon and say Philly is the second best team in the East, they still are not as good as the Celtics. Brand has made them better, and Brand himself will be in a better situation than if he had stayed in the West with the Clippers. However, the Celtics will dominate the East once again. At least I can look forward to the 2008-09 season as a Sixers fan and know they have a shot.

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

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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).

The Wizards Should Just Shutup

I really hope that the Washington Wizards have learned their lesson, especially DeShawn Stevenson and Gilbert Arenas. Â The Cavs absolutely destroyed the loudmouth Wizards with ease tonight 116-86. Â Perhaps DeShawn should have thought twice about calling LeBron James “overrated”. Â Seriously though how dumb can you be? Â Why would you want to piss off one of the very best all around players in the league right before the playoff series? Â Remember when the fans were talking mess to LeBron earlier this year? Â James just took over the game, the Toronto fans probably remember that. Â Speaking of overrated, what exactly has Gilbert Arenas done lately? Â I love Gilbert, but he has been in no position to say anything at all this year, especially to the team that has knocked him out of the playoffs for the past two years. Â

Game two was just as intense and physical as the first, highlighted by the flagrant II foul by Haywood on LeBron, with a small scuffle afterwords. Â Haywood was ejected, but it didn’t really matter because there was no way the Wizards were coming back in this one. Â Stevenson hit a nice three on James early on, and did the “Yayo” (waving his hand over his face), then Lebron immediately came right back, hit a 3, and did the Yayo right back to Stevenson, there was just no stopping him. Â That play seemed to epitomize how the series has been going so far, the Wizards make a play, talk some smack, and then LeBron and Cleveland just come right back and basically say “Hey, we are better than you.” Â

Now I still think that Washington can come back and win a couple of games, but there is no way that they are winning this series. Â I first thought that they had a shot to beat Cleveland, but after all the talk, it just is not going to happen. Â If Washington is to have a chance, their “Big 3″ of Butler, Jamison, and Arenas need to score more than a combined 28 points, last game LeBron outscored them by dropping 30. Â The bottom line is, don’t talk crap to LeBron, it’s just not a good idea, and to fire up such a dominant player is one of the dumbest things you can do.

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

Big Trades, Big Duds

Remember all of those big trades just before the trade deadline that were supposed to shake up the playoff picture.Â The big bomb dropped on the NBA standings hasnâ€™t gone off.Â Dallas and Phoenix were supposed to rise to the top after landing their big name guys.Â Boston was supposed to distance themselves from Detroit with the addition of a good veteran point guard. The Lakers were going to hand over to Phil Jackson another championship ring, and the Spurs picked up just the right guy to make it that much tougher for them to lose in the playoffs.Â

That was only a small part of the action.Â None of that seems to have taken place.Â What has taken place is that Phoenix has stayed about the same, the Lakers are dealing with injuries to their recently acquired star, the Mavericks were playing bad and now Nowitzki is out indefinitely, Cassell is not getting it done in Boston, and San Antonio is 4-6 in their last 10.Â

The teams that are impressive right now are teams that have either gotten a player back from injury (Washington, New Orleans), or are just getting hot at the right time (Philadelphia, Utah).Â It also looks like Dallas may miss the playoffs.Â If Dirk canâ€™t make it back and Kidd canâ€™t mesh with the rest of the team, Denver is going to take their place.Â As it stands right now, Dallas is only 1 Â½ games from sitting out the post season.Â

These big trades could end up having a huge effect on the playoffs.Â If Gasol gets back, the Lakers will be tough.Â If Cassell can fit in, the Celtics could be the team from the East.Â If Dirk makes it back and Kidd finds his grove, Dallas will be tough to beatâ€¦and on and on and on.Â

My opinion of this whole mess is that Dallas doesnâ€™t make it to the playoffs, and the Lakers get to the finals against the Pistons.Â It will be interesting to watch though.

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

Worst of the Week (Mar. 10-16)

5.)Â Francisco Garcia: 38.9% FG, 6.0 PPG, 3.3 Reb, 1.0 Ast, 0.7 StlÂ

He is getting 25 minutes a game even with Artest healthy, but he didnâ€™t do much with those minutes last week.Â This has been a pretty good season for Garcia, especially early in the year, but he has had a hard time for the past month or so.Â

4.)Â Damien Wilkins: 26.5% FG, 50.0% FT, 5.0 PPG, 2.3 Reb, 2.3 AstÂ

Wilkinsâ€™s 4^th season started out with a bang for the hapless Sonics; he had a 40 point game and averaged over 17 PPG for his first 11 games.Â He has since been relegated to the bench and his production has fallen off to the occasional good game here or there.Â There were no good games last week.Â

3.)Â Wally Szczerbiak: 30.8% FG, 6.0 PPG, 2.8 Reb, 1.8 Ast, no stealsÂ

Szczerbiak, after a decent start with his new team, is back to his old non-hussling, poor-shooting ways.Â He hasnâ€™t had a steal in his last 8 games.Â He is not doing much to earn that big paycheck.Â I wonder if Lebron is ready to ask for Larry Hughes back, at least with his poor shooting and big contract there was some defense.Â

2.)Â Andres Nocioni: 25.0% FG, 6.0 PPG, 2.5 Reb, 1.5 Ast, no steals or blocksÂ Â

The blockbuster trade with Cleveland has pushed Nocioni to playing fromÂ the bench, of which he has fared pretty well.Â Nocioni has the talent to score 20 a game and provide the rebounds and some defense.Â His play will probably be sporadic for the rest of the season, while he has to come off the pine.Â

1.)Â Jarrett Jack: 16.0% FG, 4.7 PPG, 1.8 Reb, 4.0 Ast, 0.8 Stl

Â Jack looked as if he was ready to become one of the better point guards in the league after last season, but he has been consistently inconsistent all year.Â He will have one good week followed by one bad week.Â Last week wasÂ a bad week.Â He had a 3 game stretch in whichÂ he was 1-18 from the floor.Â That is just plain ugly.Â

Un-Honorable Mention: Mike Conley, Kurt Thomas, Jamal Crawford, Deshawn Stevenson, Delonte West, Eduardo Najera, and Al HarringtonÂ

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