http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/20...-mock-draft-2012/index.html?eref=twitter_feed After passing on Faried last year we most definitely need a big man who can rebound, one that can block shots is crucial as well.
Zeller. I think he's a lock as a solid starting big for 10+ years. Leonard is much more of a riskier pick.
This is 6 of one, half a dozzen of the other. I figure Zeller because he is so fluid, runs well, has a soft touch, will provide points inside as well as being able to pull an opposing player to the outside with his long ball.
Agreed. Heard only good things (including some absolute raves) about Zeller. Leonard just screams Curtis Borchardt to me.
I went Leonard because I want some shot blocking, which is one of Zeller's weak points. I don't dislike Zeller, but in the lottery I want to try for someone who could be more than just solid. If this team was ready to compete for a title, then maybe Zeller would be the pick. But, they are not. It's inconceivable that Blazers would pick Zeller here. (setup)
I'd rather have a nasty case of the clap ... but I voted Zeller because while I don't think he'll ever be anything other than a serviceable big, Leonard has Bust written all over him.
Niether..... But if I had no choice...Zeller... I think Leonard is going to struggle mentally in the NBA, he is probably going to be picked too high, the NBA is notoriously rough (fouls) on young big men, he has pretty raw offensive ability and my major concern is that he has well known struggles with confidence and emotion....and ANY struggles with confidence at the NBA level can just destroy a player...there just is no room for self doubt....and with high expectations based on where he was picked, likely struggles out of the gate and the general expectations\pressure from NBA teams for players to perform immediately...that is a recipe for disaster with this kid.... He might turn out ok...down the road...but likely with a team that didn't draft him....
Can one of them provide LaMarcus with defensive help so he can save a little juice for offense? Really, I don't know.
Ways in which I think Leonard is already better than Zeller that are important: 1) shot blocking 2) hedging out on the pick and role (lateral quickness) Those are two things I don't believe Zeller can improve on given his build.
I'd go with Leonard. Leonard is a better athlete, and is bigger. Zeller's standng reach is only 8-8, which is lower than many small forwards. As a contrast, Leonards is 9-3, a full 7 inches higher.
Probably gone before 11, but I'm sure he would be considered. He is very thin and likely will max at around 230. Has super long arms (good), but some are concerned that his super long legs give him a high center of gravity which is bad for balance and also will prevent him from being able to push others out.
