VITALS: 6-7, 195, Cibona Zagreb (Croatia) OVERVIEW: Planinic is an early entry candidate who played for Cibona Zagreb of the Croatian league the last four seasons. Planinic has helped Cibona to the league title each of the last two years and was named the 2001-02 Best Croatian Young Player. Planinic averaged 7.2 points and 2.2 assists last season in 21 games. Planinic also played 18 Euroleague games and averaged 7.8 points and 2.8 assists. Planinic is described as a terrific shooter, although he made just 12-of-34 3-point attempts a year ago. The 20-year-old has played both guard positions and is considered to be more suited to play the shooting guard. Planinic played one season at Benston in Croatia in the 1999-2000 campaign before signing with Cibona. LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Mid- to late first round. Boston (16, 20) and New Jersey (22) have been closely linked to Planinic. The Nets may have even made a guarantee. They would love a player who could back up Jason Kidd and succeed Kerry Kittles upon retirement. COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Steve Smith COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Jiri Welsch, John Salmons ROLE PROJECTION: Reserve. POSITIVES: Planinic can play the 1, 2 and 3 positions. He is quicker than many of the guards that come out of Europe and has a good ability to read plays. You will not see Planinic make many mistakes. He can direct an offense, limit turnovers and produce steals. SHORTCOMINGS: Planinic has the makings of an overrated prospect. His shooting his terrible, he lacks explosiveness and his passing may be overrated. You have to wonder why he is being projected as a mid- to late first-round selection.
i think this is who the magic will draft. they need someone who won't make many mistakes with the ball.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting "J-MAC":</div><div class="quote_post">I say Reece Gaines</div> just like everyone else, the magic never choose who every says they will choose, they like to be unpredictable.
