The Utah Jazz decided to lock up power forward Derrick Favors to a reported 4 year, $49 million contract extension this week. Favors, 22, was part of a productive duo of young big men that were lodged behind veterans Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap the past two seasons. With both players signing elsewhere this offseason, Favors will see a significant uptick in both minutes and responsibility.
Favors was the main piece in the Deron Williams to New Jersey (now Brooklyn) deal in February of 2011, which also sent Devin Harris (no longer with the team) and two first round picks to Utah. While he hasn't quite developed as quickly as hoped offensively, Favors has shown a propensity for blocking shots (1.7 per game, 12th in NBA last season), and is a strong finisher near the rim. He's also a solid rebounder, and is an above-average athlete for the position.
The Jazz have a lot of young talent, but would have been woefully thin up front if the team elected to have him play out the fourth year of his contract and enter restricted free agency. While a little over $12 million a year might be over-paying for the 9.4 points and 7.1 rebounds he provided last season, the Jazz would have risked losing one of their best young players on a team that's clearly in transition.
Favors' representation could have elected to take the riskier approach and abandon the opportunity for an extension by playing out the season in hopes of getting a richer deal elsewhere. While there could have been a team or two out there willing to spend more than the $12+ million annually he's now set to receive, the risk of injury would hardly be worth it.
Grade for Utah: B. Despite over-paying slightly, the team was able to keep a player they likely view as a core piece in their rebuilding efforts. There is risk with that kind of investment in a player that's still relatively unproven, but it was a calculated risk in this instance.
Grade for Favors: A. There likely wouldn't have been a team to offer much more than Utah had, and the risk of injury in playing out the final year of his rookie deal ultimately wouldn't have been worth it. His contract is also favorable in comparison to other promising young big men like Serge Ibaka ($12.5 million average annual salary) and Javale McGee ($11 million AAS).
Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Grading the Deal: Trent Richardson to the Indianapolis Colts
Just over one year into his NFL career, Trent Richardson, the running back out of Alabama taken third overall in the 2012 draft is now a member of the Indianapolis Colts. While Richardson was drafted by the previous regime in Cleveland and his injury history is a concern, the 22 year old running back was still able to rush for nearly 1,000 yards in his first season, despite playing against some stout defenses in the AFC North.
The Cleveland Browns are seemingly in yet another rebuilding year, and while a first round pick in next year's draft may seem nice on paper, the team likely won't have a pick in the top half of the round due to the Colts potentially contending for a playoff spot again this season. Moreover, they'll be hard-pressed to be able to draft a player that can contribute the way Richardson had to this point in his young career. There was already a promising young corps of skill position players, with emerging tight end Jordan Cameron and second-year wide receiver Josh Gordon (who was suspended for violating the league's drug policy), so subtracting Richardson makes little sense.
For the Colts, this is a win-win scenario. The stable of running backs in Indianapolis was still suspect heading into the 2013 season, and after starter Vick Ballard tore his ACL last week, management obviously didn't feel great about the depth at the position. While a first round pick is a fairly steep price for a running back in what's become a more pass-oriented NFL, the Colts will be getting a player that can make an impact right now for a franchise which struggled to run the ball in 2012.
Grade for Cleveland: C-. Even with a new front office and coaching staff, trading the #3 overall pick just a little bit over one season into their NFL career is a bit of a head-scratcher. The first round pick will bring talent back to Cleveland, but it does nothing to help them this season.
Grade for Indianapolis: B+. The price was a bit high, but with the coaching staff wanting to take some of the pressure off of second-year phenom Andrew Luck and the passing game. A bit of a gamble, but I expect better production from Richardson in Indianapolis, as he will get to play against defenses that are somewhat softer against the run.
The Cleveland Browns are seemingly in yet another rebuilding year, and while a first round pick in next year's draft may seem nice on paper, the team likely won't have a pick in the top half of the round due to the Colts potentially contending for a playoff spot again this season. Moreover, they'll be hard-pressed to be able to draft a player that can contribute the way Richardson had to this point in his young career. There was already a promising young corps of skill position players, with emerging tight end Jordan Cameron and second-year wide receiver Josh Gordon (who was suspended for violating the league's drug policy), so subtracting Richardson makes little sense.
For the Colts, this is a win-win scenario. The stable of running backs in Indianapolis was still suspect heading into the 2013 season, and after starter Vick Ballard tore his ACL last week, management obviously didn't feel great about the depth at the position. While a first round pick is a fairly steep price for a running back in what's become a more pass-oriented NFL, the Colts will be getting a player that can make an impact right now for a franchise which struggled to run the ball in 2012.
Grade for Cleveland: C-. Even with a new front office and coaching staff, trading the #3 overall pick just a little bit over one season into their NFL career is a bit of a head-scratcher. The first round pick will bring talent back to Cleveland, but it does nothing to help them this season.
Grade for Indianapolis: B+. The price was a bit high, but with the coaching staff wanting to take some of the pressure off of second-year phenom Andrew Luck and the passing game. A bit of a gamble, but I expect better production from Richardson in Indianapolis, as he will get to play against defenses that are somewhat softer against the run.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
2013 Arizona Cardinals season preview
Offense: The team was simply abysmal last season in every phase of the game, ranking in the bottom of the league in most offensive categories. The offensive line could neither protect the quarterback (league-worst 58 sacks) or open up holes for their running backs (league-worst 3.4 yards per carry). The addition of #8 overall pick Jonathan Cooper was supposed to help, but will likely miss the season with a broken leg. Carson Palmer will take the helm at quarterback, and provides the team with a big-armed quarterback who is better equipped to take advantage of Pro Bowl wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald. Rashard Mendenhall should give the running game a boost, and rookie Stepfan Taylor (6th round, Stanford) is a durable short-yardage back that provides depth behind Mendenhall.
Defense: Perhaps one of the most underrated defenses in the game, Arizona recorded 38 sacks while racking up more interceptions (22, 2nd in NFL) than passing touchdowns allowed (20). The team will miss Kerry Rhodes' production, but the combination of Yeremiah Bell and rookie Tyrann Mathieu (3rd round) should help. Daryl Washington (9.0 sacks) leads a very strong linebacking corps, which also added Kevin Minter (2nd round) to compete for a starting spot alongside Washington and Alex Okafor (4th round) as another edge-rusher in the team's 3-4 scheme. Defensive end Calais Campbell has been playing at a Pro Bowl level the last couple of years, but the team needs former Pro Bowler Darnell Dockett to return to form after a sub-par 2012 season (34 tackles, 1.5 sacks). Cornerback Patrick Peterson is also becoming one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL (7 interceptions), and is a very big threat in the return game.
Impact Free Agent: Running back Rashard Mendenhall. The Cardinals running game has been anemic in recent seasons, and while that could be a by-product of poor offensive line play, the addition of Mendenhall could change things. Mendenhall missed time last season after suffering a torn ACL at the end of the 2011 campaign, and didn't appear 100% when playing last season. If healthy, Mendenhall gives Arizona the best running back they've had in quite some time.
Impact Rookie: Safety/cornerback Tyrann Mathieu. While he's not currently listed as a starter, Mathieu has a knack for making plays. While he's somewhat small for a safety in run support, the Cardinals will probably use him as a center field-type safety on passing downs, and might also see time covering slot receivers. Were it not for being kicked off LSU's football team for repeated drug-related problems, Mathieu probably would have been gone long before the third round.
Player to Watch: Quarterback Carson Palmer. Ever since Kurt Warner retired, the Cardinals offense has been missing the big-play ability from the passing game. While Palmer is not quite the same player that he was in the mid-2000's, he still has a big arm, and should be able to find Larry Fitzgerald more frequently and accurately than any quarterback since Warner.
Record: 5-11 (4th in NFC West)
Defense: Perhaps one of the most underrated defenses in the game, Arizona recorded 38 sacks while racking up more interceptions (22, 2nd in NFL) than passing touchdowns allowed (20). The team will miss Kerry Rhodes' production, but the combination of Yeremiah Bell and rookie Tyrann Mathieu (3rd round) should help. Daryl Washington (9.0 sacks) leads a very strong linebacking corps, which also added Kevin Minter (2nd round) to compete for a starting spot alongside Washington and Alex Okafor (4th round) as another edge-rusher in the team's 3-4 scheme. Defensive end Calais Campbell has been playing at a Pro Bowl level the last couple of years, but the team needs former Pro Bowler Darnell Dockett to return to form after a sub-par 2012 season (34 tackles, 1.5 sacks). Cornerback Patrick Peterson is also becoming one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL (7 interceptions), and is a very big threat in the return game.
Impact Free Agent: Running back Rashard Mendenhall. The Cardinals running game has been anemic in recent seasons, and while that could be a by-product of poor offensive line play, the addition of Mendenhall could change things. Mendenhall missed time last season after suffering a torn ACL at the end of the 2011 campaign, and didn't appear 100% when playing last season. If healthy, Mendenhall gives Arizona the best running back they've had in quite some time.
Impact Rookie: Safety/cornerback Tyrann Mathieu. While he's not currently listed as a starter, Mathieu has a knack for making plays. While he's somewhat small for a safety in run support, the Cardinals will probably use him as a center field-type safety on passing downs, and might also see time covering slot receivers. Were it not for being kicked off LSU's football team for repeated drug-related problems, Mathieu probably would have been gone long before the third round.
Player to Watch: Quarterback Carson Palmer. Ever since Kurt Warner retired, the Cardinals offense has been missing the big-play ability from the passing game. While Palmer is not quite the same player that he was in the mid-2000's, he still has a big arm, and should be able to find Larry Fitzgerald more frequently and accurately than any quarterback since Warner.
Record: 5-11 (4th in NFC West)
2013 New York Jets Season Preview
Offense: While the circus caused by Tim Tebow's lack of playing time went away after his release, the Jets still have a quarterback controversy on their hands after drafting Geno Smith in the second round. Sanchez continues to struggle with his decision-making, and head coach Rex Ryan isn't making it easier for himself in what might be a do-or-die season for both he and Sanchez. The receiving corps should see a boost from Santonio Holmes, who missed 12 games last year. The running back spot has been almost completely re-made, as the team acquired Chris Ivory from New Orleans to compete with Bilal Powell for the starting job. While the Jets did rank 12th in the league in rushing yards, they were only 25th in yards per carry, so whoever wins the job will need to provide more big plays. The offense could only must around 300 yards per game last season, and the Jets surrendered the 5th-most sacks in the league last season. The offensive line likely wasn't the problem so much as Sanchez's shaky play and Shonn Greene's lack of a second gear, but they will still need to do a better job for this offense to be successful.
2013 Miami Dolphins Season Preview
Offense: Ryan Tannehill made strides at quarterback in his rookie season, and will now have a new weapon on offense with the addition of wide receiver Mike Wallace. Both Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas figure to see time in the backfield for the 'Fins, but expect Miller to eventually beat out the plodding (and fumble-prone) Thomas to replace Reggie Bush as Miami's feature back. Along the line, the team has slid second-year tackle Jonathan Martin to the left side to replace the departed Jake Long, while Tyson Clabo was signed from Atlanta to start at right tackle.
2013 Buffalo Bills Season Preview
Buffalo Bills
Offense: New coach Doug Marrone has installed a West Coast-style offense more reliant on the run that under previous coach Chan Gailey, C.J. Spiller is now the unquestioned #1 back on the team, and his 6.0 yards-per-carry in 2012 are an indicator of the big-play potential he brings to the offense. The quarterback job was up for grabs entering training camp, but after Kevin Kolb's poor play and concussion, the job is all but Manuel's for the taking. The receiving corps was re-vamped during the draft, as the Bills selected Robert Woods (USC, 2nd round) and Marquise Goodwin (Texas, 3rd round) to add more playmakers. Woods in particular figures to play a prominent role in the offense this season. The offensive line lost left guard Andy Levitre to free agency, and while Colin Brown appears to have the job won, there will be some drop-off in play at the position.
2013 New England Patriots season preview
New England Patriots
Offense: The 2013 iteration of the Patriots will look significantly different that 2012. The team's top two wide receivers (Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd) are gone, tight end Rob Gronkowski is still recovering from another surgery on his arm, and Aaron Hernandez was released after his arrest on murder charges. Tom Brady is still running the show, and the team did sign receiver Danny Amendola to help fill the void left by Welker's departure. Julian Edelman will need to improve this season as well, as he will likely start opposite Amendola.
The offensive line returns it's entire starting lineup from last year, but will need to see continued improvement from third-year tackle Nate Solder, who is Brady's blindside protector. The running game will likely see more work this year, as Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen will get an increased workload due a somewhat depleted receiving corps.
Offense: The 2013 iteration of the Patriots will look significantly different that 2012. The team's top two wide receivers (Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd) are gone, tight end Rob Gronkowski is still recovering from another surgery on his arm, and Aaron Hernandez was released after his arrest on murder charges. Tom Brady is still running the show, and the team did sign receiver Danny Amendola to help fill the void left by Welker's departure. Julian Edelman will need to improve this season as well, as he will likely start opposite Amendola.
The offensive line returns it's entire starting lineup from last year, but will need to see continued improvement from third-year tackle Nate Solder, who is Brady's blindside protector. The running game will likely see more work this year, as Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen will get an increased workload due a somewhat depleted receiving corps.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
2013 NBA Draft Live Results
With the first pick of the 2013 NBA Draft almost in, Sports Junkie Online will be live-blogging the entire first round with results and analysis
1. Cleveland Cavaliers select forward Anthony Bennett of UNLV
Analysis: It didn't take long for the first surprise of the draft, as the Cavaliers passed on Nerlens Noel and Alex Len. The Cavaliers have a need in the frontcourt, and Bennett reminds me some of Timberwolves forward Derrick Williams. He's a bit of a tweener, but has the athleticism, size and overall game to become a very good NBA player. It will be interesting to see how he fits alongside Tristan Thompson, as they will be competing for minutes in the frontcourt.
2. Orlando Magic select shooting guard Victor Oladipo of Indiana
The has a need at shooting guard, and Oladipo could potentially develop into a great offensive player. An excellent athlete, Oladipo has the length, strength and athleticism to defend wings right away, and can hit the open three while at Indiana. While Nikola Vucevic is there, I'm surprised that the team did pass on Noel. Perhaps the knee injury is scaring teams off. Oladipo has a very high floor, and at very worst, should be a more athletic version of Portland guard Wesley Matthews.
3. Washington Wizards select small forward Otto Porter of Georgetown
With a need at small forward, Porter is a safe pick whose versatile game will fit in well with John Wall and Bradley Beal. He's not necessarily a great defender, and will need to improve his jumper, but has above-average court vision and like Oladipo, should be a starter right away for the Wizards. Ariza is best as a high-energy reserve, but Porter could come in as a second-unit facilitator.
4. Charlotte Bobcats select forward/center Cody Zeller of Indiana
Charlotte with a bit of a reach here, as the team sorely needs to improve it's interior defense, as well as on the wing. Ben McLemore would have made a lot more sense, as would taking someone with a high ceiling like Alex Len or Nerlens Noel (one of whom will likely go next to Phoenix). Zeller has better athleticism than he gets credit for, but needs to get stronger to hold position in the post defensively.
5. Phoenix Suns select center Alex Len of Maryland
Len is another good athlete who is a bit of a project. Like Zeller, he'll need to add play with more consistency and effort, but flashes more defensively than Zeller and has a solid offensive game. My biggest concern over taking someone this high is that he didn't land on any of the three All-ACC teams. He should be in the rotation for new coach Jeff Hornacek, and should develop into a serviceable NBA center in a couple of years. The lack of production against collegiate competition is a concern.
6. New Orleans Pelicans select forward/center Nerlens Noel of Kentucky (proposed trade to Philadelphia)
Back-to-back years that New Orleans selects a Kentucky big man with their first pick in the draft. While frighteningly similar to Anthony Davis in body build and game, Noel is the slightly better athlete, but needs more development to his offensive game, which consists of mostly of putbacks and dunks. I almost think this pick was made for another team, as their potential front line is too similar for my liking.
Update: According to ESPN, Noel is likely on the move the 76ers, who have the 11th pick.
7. Sacramento Kings select shooting guard Ben McLemore of Kansas
A high-ceiling player who projects as a top-tier shooting guard down the road. He's got a great jump shot, but like Bradley Beal last year, needs to work on the ability to create his own shot. This likely shows that the team isn't likely to retain guard/forward Tyreke Evans, who is a restricted free agent this summer.
I'm going to guess this Pistons will take Michigan point guard Trey Burke, which would allow Brandon Knight to slide to his more natural two-guard position.
8. Detroit Pistons select shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope of Georgia
Caldwell-Pope is a good athlete whose long wingspan will wreak havoc on the passing lanes. He's also got a great shooting stroke, but needs to develop his ball-handling and positioning on defense. It looks like the Pistons believe that Knight will be their long-term answer at point guard. A nice young core is developing in Detroit, as Knight, KCP, Monroe and Drummond could develop into an exciting young team.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves select point guard Trey Burke of Michigan (proposed trade to Utah)
With Ricky Rubio still in the fold, this has got to be a selection for another team. Burke is a winner, and has a solid shooting stroke, but his lack of size and only average athleticism will make it more difficult to get into the lane like he was able to in college. He'll make good decisions with the basketball, and whoever gets Burke (assuming Flip Saunders isn't taking a page out of former GM David Kahn's book in drafting point guards) should have a solid point guard and excellent leader.
ESPN is reporting that Burke is potentially on his way to Utah, who badly needs a point guard.
10. Portland Trail Blazers select guard C.J. McCollum of Lehigh
McCollum will likely come in as a reserve, but has the ball-handling ability to play alongside Lillard to get more looks off the ball. McCollum has a great shooting stroke, and can come off screens, as well as create his own shot. Portland was in dire need of bench production last year, and if McCollum is actually Portland's pick, should fill a major need for the team.
11. Philadelphia 76ers select point guard Michael Carter-Williams of Syracuse
With Jrue Holiday rumored to be on the move (reported by Yahoo! and ESPN) in the deal to acquire Noel, the Sixers grab their new point guard of the future. At 6'6", MCW has the size to be a major disruptor, and has great floor vision. While his decision-making and shooting need some work, he has the biggest upside of any point guard in the draft.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder select center Steven Adams of Pittsburgh
Kendrick Perkins' effectiveness has waned some over the past year, so the Thunder grab a bit of a project in Adams. Adams flashed above-average athleticism at the draft combine, and has an NBA-ready body. Adams can learn behind Perkins for the next year, and will likely be a defensive cog in the middle a couple of years down the road.
13. Dallas Mavericks select forward/center Kelly Olynyk of Gonzaga
According to a Yahoo! report, Olynyk is on the move to the Celtics. If that holds true, the team gets a stretch big man who can contribute in a rotation right away. He's got a decent face-up game, and is also a good passer for a big man. He won't do much of anything defensively, but should work as a high-post facilitator as well.
14. Utah Jazz select guard Shabazz Muhammad of UCLA (proposed trade to Minnesota)
The Timberwolves need scoring at the wing, and while Muhammad needs to work on his right hand, he has an NBA body and should be able to attack the basket effectively in the pros. He's got a great wingspan, but needs to work harder on the defensive end to become a good starter down the road. Backcourt shots should be available for Minnesota, and Muhammad is not shy about taking them.
15. Milwaukee Bucks select small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo
A Youtube highlight reel waiting to happen, Antetokounmpo has a solid all-around skill set. While he doesn't want to stay in Europe another season, he'll need to add more muscle and learn the game of basketball more before he can be a contributor for the Bucks, who seem to be in rebuilding mode.
16. Boston Celtics select center Lucas Noguiera of Brazil (proposed trade with Atlanta through Dallas)
Noguiera has a great wingspan and the ability to block shots, but doesn't rebound at a high rate and needs to add more bulk to his seven-foot frame (215 pounds). While his offense is almost non-existent, interior defense is always at a premium, and "Bebe" should find his way into an NBA rotation in the future.
17. Atlanta Hawks select point guard Dennis Schroeder of Germany
A long, athletic point guard, Schroeder has shown the ability to score in a variety of ways in Europe, and has the potential to develop into a good perimeter defender. With Jeff Teague a restricted free agent, Schroeder could be a potential replacement if the team were to lose Teague this offseason.
18. Atlanta Hawks select point guard Shane Larkin of Miami (FL) (proposed trade to Dallas)
The son of Hall of Fame baseball player Barry, Shane is somewhat undersized at 5'10", but has great athleticism. A heady player, Larkin's ability to shoot the ball helps open up the lane, where he does a great job of finding the open shooter on the kickout.
19. Cleveland Cavaliers select shooting guard Sergey Karasev of Russia
Karasev is only a so-so athlete, but plays has a great basketball IQ, and his jump shot is NBA ready. Karasev is has the potential to be a starter if he can improve his defense more, but he'll earn most of his playing time in the second-unit.
20. Chicago Bulls select shooting guard Tony Snell of New Mexico
The Bulls lacked perimeter shooting last season, and with Derrick Rose returning next season, a floor spacer was an absolute must. Snell has a great jumpshot, and has enough length and athleticism to become a respectable defender in the league. Great pickup by Chicago.
21. Utah Jazz select Louisville center Gorgui Dieng (proposed trade with Minnesota)
Dieng reminds me of a little more polished offensive version of Festus Ezeli. While Dieng may not have a lot of upside, he has an emerging face-up game to go along with good shot-blocking, cleans the glass well and has a great defensive IQ.
22. New Jersey Nets select center Mason Plumlee of Duke
Plumlee is a high-energy player that rebounds at a high rate and provides the team with an athletic frountcourt player. While his offensive game is still evolving and he isn't a great defender, Plumlee fits nicely into the Nets' rotation.
23. Indiana Pacers select forward Solomon Hill of Arizona
Hill is a 'tweener forward, and he does a little bit of everything well. While he lacks the lateral quickness to guard the best NBA small forwards, Hill has a good basketball IQ and could find himself in the rotation backing up Paul George and Danny Granger.
24. New York Knicks select shooting guard Tim Hardaway Jr. of Michigan
With Iman Shumpert already in the fold, the addition of Hardaway likely means the team is likely going to allow J.R. Smith to walk in free agency. A good athlete who can shoot the ball well and has the potential to become a good defender due to his combination of length and athleticism.
25. Los Angeles Clippers select guard/forward Reggie Bullock of North Carolina
A solid shooter, Bullock can defend both wing positions, and is also a solid rebounder. Bullock will likely find himself in the rotation early, as Caron Butler's effectiveness fading and Grant Hill retiring leaves a lot of wing minutes open.
26. Minnesota Timberwolves select Andre Roberson (proposed trade with Thunder through Golden State)
Roberson is a bit undersized for a power forward at 6'7" and 206 pounds, but he's a great rebounder and weakside shot-blocker. His offensive game is still developing but can play both forward positions if the team decides to go with a small lineup.
27. Denver Nuggets select center Rudy Gobert of France
Gobert needs to spend another year in Europe to continue his development, as the Nuggets have a good amount of depth in the frontcourt. With a 7'9" wingspan, Gobert has the length to be a very good shot-blocker, and is a decent athlete.
Update: There is apparently a trade in the works between the Nuggets and Jazz regarding Gobert. If it's true, Gobert has a better chance of coming over, as both Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson are free agents this summer, and Gobert provides the team a complimentary backup to likely '13-'14 starter Enes Kanter at center.
28. San Antonio Spurs select forward Livio Jean-Charles of France
Jean-Charles provides the team with a potential Euro-stash that could develop into a rotation-caliber combo forward in the mold of Travis Outlaw. He has a great wingspan, and if he wants to play for Pop, Jean-Charles will need to develop more on defense.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder select shooting guard Archie Goodwin of Kentucky (proposed trade with Phoenix through Golden State)
Goodwin struggled mightily in SEC play for the Wildcats, but shows a willingness and ability to get to the free throw line. He'll need to develop his jump-shot more, as NBA defenses will sag off of him until it improves.
30. Phoenix Suns select shooting guard Nemanja Nedovic of Serbia (proposed trade with Golden State)
Nedovic is an attack but undersized two-guard who relies heavily on his athleticism to get to the basket. It will be interesting to see whether the Suns bring him over this season (which is highly likely as the Suns are clearly in rebuilding mode).
1. Cleveland Cavaliers select forward Anthony Bennett of UNLV
Analysis: It didn't take long for the first surprise of the draft, as the Cavaliers passed on Nerlens Noel and Alex Len. The Cavaliers have a need in the frontcourt, and Bennett reminds me some of Timberwolves forward Derrick Williams. He's a bit of a tweener, but has the athleticism, size and overall game to become a very good NBA player. It will be interesting to see how he fits alongside Tristan Thompson, as they will be competing for minutes in the frontcourt.
2. Orlando Magic select shooting guard Victor Oladipo of Indiana
The has a need at shooting guard, and Oladipo could potentially develop into a great offensive player. An excellent athlete, Oladipo has the length, strength and athleticism to defend wings right away, and can hit the open three while at Indiana. While Nikola Vucevic is there, I'm surprised that the team did pass on Noel. Perhaps the knee injury is scaring teams off. Oladipo has a very high floor, and at very worst, should be a more athletic version of Portland guard Wesley Matthews.
3. Washington Wizards select small forward Otto Porter of Georgetown
With a need at small forward, Porter is a safe pick whose versatile game will fit in well with John Wall and Bradley Beal. He's not necessarily a great defender, and will need to improve his jumper, but has above-average court vision and like Oladipo, should be a starter right away for the Wizards. Ariza is best as a high-energy reserve, but Porter could come in as a second-unit facilitator.
4. Charlotte Bobcats select forward/center Cody Zeller of Indiana
Charlotte with a bit of a reach here, as the team sorely needs to improve it's interior defense, as well as on the wing. Ben McLemore would have made a lot more sense, as would taking someone with a high ceiling like Alex Len or Nerlens Noel (one of whom will likely go next to Phoenix). Zeller has better athleticism than he gets credit for, but needs to get stronger to hold position in the post defensively.
5. Phoenix Suns select center Alex Len of Maryland
Len is another good athlete who is a bit of a project. Like Zeller, he'll need to add play with more consistency and effort, but flashes more defensively than Zeller and has a solid offensive game. My biggest concern over taking someone this high is that he didn't land on any of the three All-ACC teams. He should be in the rotation for new coach Jeff Hornacek, and should develop into a serviceable NBA center in a couple of years. The lack of production against collegiate competition is a concern.
6. New Orleans Pelicans select forward/center Nerlens Noel of Kentucky (proposed trade to Philadelphia)
Back-to-back years that New Orleans selects a Kentucky big man with their first pick in the draft. While frighteningly similar to Anthony Davis in body build and game, Noel is the slightly better athlete, but needs more development to his offensive game, which consists of mostly of putbacks and dunks. I almost think this pick was made for another team, as their potential front line is too similar for my liking.
Update: According to ESPN, Noel is likely on the move the 76ers, who have the 11th pick.
7. Sacramento Kings select shooting guard Ben McLemore of Kansas
A high-ceiling player who projects as a top-tier shooting guard down the road. He's got a great jump shot, but like Bradley Beal last year, needs to work on the ability to create his own shot. This likely shows that the team isn't likely to retain guard/forward Tyreke Evans, who is a restricted free agent this summer.
I'm going to guess this Pistons will take Michigan point guard Trey Burke, which would allow Brandon Knight to slide to his more natural two-guard position.
8. Detroit Pistons select shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope of Georgia
Caldwell-Pope is a good athlete whose long wingspan will wreak havoc on the passing lanes. He's also got a great shooting stroke, but needs to develop his ball-handling and positioning on defense. It looks like the Pistons believe that Knight will be their long-term answer at point guard. A nice young core is developing in Detroit, as Knight, KCP, Monroe and Drummond could develop into an exciting young team.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves select point guard Trey Burke of Michigan (proposed trade to Utah)
With Ricky Rubio still in the fold, this has got to be a selection for another team. Burke is a winner, and has a solid shooting stroke, but his lack of size and only average athleticism will make it more difficult to get into the lane like he was able to in college. He'll make good decisions with the basketball, and whoever gets Burke (assuming Flip Saunders isn't taking a page out of former GM David Kahn's book in drafting point guards) should have a solid point guard and excellent leader.
ESPN is reporting that Burke is potentially on his way to Utah, who badly needs a point guard.
10. Portland Trail Blazers select guard C.J. McCollum of Lehigh
McCollum will likely come in as a reserve, but has the ball-handling ability to play alongside Lillard to get more looks off the ball. McCollum has a great shooting stroke, and can come off screens, as well as create his own shot. Portland was in dire need of bench production last year, and if McCollum is actually Portland's pick, should fill a major need for the team.
11. Philadelphia 76ers select point guard Michael Carter-Williams of Syracuse
With Jrue Holiday rumored to be on the move (reported by Yahoo! and ESPN) in the deal to acquire Noel, the Sixers grab their new point guard of the future. At 6'6", MCW has the size to be a major disruptor, and has great floor vision. While his decision-making and shooting need some work, he has the biggest upside of any point guard in the draft.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder select center Steven Adams of Pittsburgh
Kendrick Perkins' effectiveness has waned some over the past year, so the Thunder grab a bit of a project in Adams. Adams flashed above-average athleticism at the draft combine, and has an NBA-ready body. Adams can learn behind Perkins for the next year, and will likely be a defensive cog in the middle a couple of years down the road.
13. Dallas Mavericks select forward/center Kelly Olynyk of Gonzaga
According to a Yahoo! report, Olynyk is on the move to the Celtics. If that holds true, the team gets a stretch big man who can contribute in a rotation right away. He's got a decent face-up game, and is also a good passer for a big man. He won't do much of anything defensively, but should work as a high-post facilitator as well.
14. Utah Jazz select guard Shabazz Muhammad of UCLA (proposed trade to Minnesota)
The Timberwolves need scoring at the wing, and while Muhammad needs to work on his right hand, he has an NBA body and should be able to attack the basket effectively in the pros. He's got a great wingspan, but needs to work harder on the defensive end to become a good starter down the road. Backcourt shots should be available for Minnesota, and Muhammad is not shy about taking them.
15. Milwaukee Bucks select small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo
A Youtube highlight reel waiting to happen, Antetokounmpo has a solid all-around skill set. While he doesn't want to stay in Europe another season, he'll need to add more muscle and learn the game of basketball more before he can be a contributor for the Bucks, who seem to be in rebuilding mode.
16. Boston Celtics select center Lucas Noguiera of Brazil (proposed trade with Atlanta through Dallas)
Noguiera has a great wingspan and the ability to block shots, but doesn't rebound at a high rate and needs to add more bulk to his seven-foot frame (215 pounds). While his offense is almost non-existent, interior defense is always at a premium, and "Bebe" should find his way into an NBA rotation in the future.
17. Atlanta Hawks select point guard Dennis Schroeder of Germany
A long, athletic point guard, Schroeder has shown the ability to score in a variety of ways in Europe, and has the potential to develop into a good perimeter defender. With Jeff Teague a restricted free agent, Schroeder could be a potential replacement if the team were to lose Teague this offseason.
18. Atlanta Hawks select point guard Shane Larkin of Miami (FL) (proposed trade to Dallas)
The son of Hall of Fame baseball player Barry, Shane is somewhat undersized at 5'10", but has great athleticism. A heady player, Larkin's ability to shoot the ball helps open up the lane, where he does a great job of finding the open shooter on the kickout.
19. Cleveland Cavaliers select shooting guard Sergey Karasev of Russia
Karasev is only a so-so athlete, but plays has a great basketball IQ, and his jump shot is NBA ready. Karasev is has the potential to be a starter if he can improve his defense more, but he'll earn most of his playing time in the second-unit.
20. Chicago Bulls select shooting guard Tony Snell of New Mexico
The Bulls lacked perimeter shooting last season, and with Derrick Rose returning next season, a floor spacer was an absolute must. Snell has a great jumpshot, and has enough length and athleticism to become a respectable defender in the league. Great pickup by Chicago.
21. Utah Jazz select Louisville center Gorgui Dieng (proposed trade with Minnesota)
Dieng reminds me of a little more polished offensive version of Festus Ezeli. While Dieng may not have a lot of upside, he has an emerging face-up game to go along with good shot-blocking, cleans the glass well and has a great defensive IQ.
22. New Jersey Nets select center Mason Plumlee of Duke
Plumlee is a high-energy player that rebounds at a high rate and provides the team with an athletic frountcourt player. While his offensive game is still evolving and he isn't a great defender, Plumlee fits nicely into the Nets' rotation.
23. Indiana Pacers select forward Solomon Hill of Arizona
Hill is a 'tweener forward, and he does a little bit of everything well. While he lacks the lateral quickness to guard the best NBA small forwards, Hill has a good basketball IQ and could find himself in the rotation backing up Paul George and Danny Granger.
24. New York Knicks select shooting guard Tim Hardaway Jr. of Michigan
With Iman Shumpert already in the fold, the addition of Hardaway likely means the team is likely going to allow J.R. Smith to walk in free agency. A good athlete who can shoot the ball well and has the potential to become a good defender due to his combination of length and athleticism.
25. Los Angeles Clippers select guard/forward Reggie Bullock of North Carolina
A solid shooter, Bullock can defend both wing positions, and is also a solid rebounder. Bullock will likely find himself in the rotation early, as Caron Butler's effectiveness fading and Grant Hill retiring leaves a lot of wing minutes open.
26. Minnesota Timberwolves select Andre Roberson (proposed trade with Thunder through Golden State)
Roberson is a bit undersized for a power forward at 6'7" and 206 pounds, but he's a great rebounder and weakside shot-blocker. His offensive game is still developing but can play both forward positions if the team decides to go with a small lineup.
27. Denver Nuggets select center Rudy Gobert of France
Gobert needs to spend another year in Europe to continue his development, as the Nuggets have a good amount of depth in the frontcourt. With a 7'9" wingspan, Gobert has the length to be a very good shot-blocker, and is a decent athlete.
Update: There is apparently a trade in the works between the Nuggets and Jazz regarding Gobert. If it's true, Gobert has a better chance of coming over, as both Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson are free agents this summer, and Gobert provides the team a complimentary backup to likely '13-'14 starter Enes Kanter at center.
28. San Antonio Spurs select forward Livio Jean-Charles of France
Jean-Charles provides the team with a potential Euro-stash that could develop into a rotation-caliber combo forward in the mold of Travis Outlaw. He has a great wingspan, and if he wants to play for Pop, Jean-Charles will need to develop more on defense.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder select shooting guard Archie Goodwin of Kentucky (proposed trade with Phoenix through Golden State)
Goodwin struggled mightily in SEC play for the Wildcats, but shows a willingness and ability to get to the free throw line. He'll need to develop his jump-shot more, as NBA defenses will sag off of him until it improves.
30. Phoenix Suns select shooting guard Nemanja Nedovic of Serbia (proposed trade with Golden State)
Nedovic is an attack but undersized two-guard who relies heavily on his athleticism to get to the basket. It will be interesting to see whether the Suns bring him over this season (which is highly likely as the Suns are clearly in rebuilding mode).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)