Official JBB 2005 NBA Mock Draft (v5.0)

<font size="5"><font color="DarkSlateBlue"><div align="center">JBB's Official Mock Draft</div></font></font>

<font color="DarkSlateBlue">The Official JBB Mock Draft v5 is our most in depth mock yet. With the draft order determined, and the Milwaukee Bucks winning the lottery, there was plenty of shakeup. After reading through player workouts, the latest rumors, and following the volatile stock of players rise and fall, v5 is loaded with information. We have also included player bios and reasons why a player could land at our projected spot. Created by Voodoo Child, CourtKing, & Shapecity.</font>

<font face="Lucida Console"><font size="4">1st Round -</font></font>

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 1 - Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Bogut -</font></font>
Position: C, Height: 7-0, Weight: 242 lbs., Age: 20 (11/28/84), Team: University of Utah
Statistics: 20.4 ppg, 12.2 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.0 spg, 1.9 bpg, 62% FG, 36% 3pt, 69% FT, 35.0 mpg

If you look at his height, his stats, and just put in one of the tapes of him in Utah, you will see why he should be the number one pick in the draft. Bogut can already stroke the ball from 18 feet out and can possibly one day develop a nice three ball. Imagine that, a seven footer that can take the trey and then beat you in the post. An NBA-ready body and has the best fundamentals possibly since Tim Duncan to come in this draft. The only weakness I see is his athletic ability to be a center in the NBA but then again you don't have to be that athletic to play center.

The Bucks already have Dan Gadzuric and Zaza Pachulia at Center, but both of them are Free Agents and could easily be moved to Power Forward (or the bench). Besides, the second option for the Bucks would be to draft Marvin Williams, and they?re even more set at Small Forward than they are in the post. Bogut will also help take some pressure off Michael Redd. They could easily become one of the best 1-2 punches in the NBA.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 2 - Atlanta Hawks - Marvin Williams -</font></font>
Position: SF, Height: 6-9, Weight: 230 lbs., Age: 19 (6/19/86), Team: North Carolina
Statistics: 11.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 0.7 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.5 bpg, 51% FG, 43% 3pt, 85% FT, 22.2 mpg

Being labeled as the player with the most 'upside' and compared to James Worthy with a jumpshot, Marvin Williams is a bitter-sweet choice for the Hawks at #2.

After losing out on the #1 pick in the lottery, the Hawks have likely lost the opportunity to fill their greatest need, center, with Andrew Bogut. The Hawks are also loaded at the forward position with Al Harrington, Josh Smith, and Josh Childress. Adding Marvin Williams just adds to the logjam in Atlanta, but it won't stop Billy Knight from drafting Marvin Williams ahead of Chris Paul, Gerald Green, or Deron Williams.

By drafting Marvin Williams the Hawks get a potential franchise player, something they have not had since Dominique Wilkins. The Hawks are rumored to be shopping Al Harrington already, in hopes of getting a big man in return.

Marvin Williams has the ability to play inside or outside, and with Josh Smith being athletic enough to play the 3 or the 4, the Hawks could alter their positions depending on match-ups. Marvin also gives the Hawks a much needed perimeter attack. At only 19 years old, (younger than Gerald Green) and already with an NBA body the Hawks have the luxury to develop Marvin and the Joshes for the next few seasons into one of the better trios in the NBA.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 3 - Portland Trailblazers - Gerald Green</font></font>
Position: SG/SF, Height: 6-8, Weight: 200 lbs., Age: 19 (1/26/86), Team: Gulf Shores Academy (H.S.)
Statistics: 28.0 ppg, 13.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 6.0 bpg (From Jr. year)

Green is drawing a lot of comparisons to Tracy McGrady of the Rockets for many reasons. One is that both players are trying to make that jump from high school to the NBA and the other is that their style of play resemble each other. They both have that smooth style to them and can both fly high above the rim when necessary. If the draft were determined on upside this kid would be indeed the number one pick in the draft. He is silky smooth and has the athleticism the be a great player in the NBA one day. His only weakness is that he tends at times to not try up to his potential which is something that can be fixed.

Green draws a lot of attention from a lot of teams such as the Blazers at number three, the Knicks, Bobcats, Hornets, and Raptors. Don't be shocked if you see this kid picked over either Bogut, Paul, or Marvin because again he has the ability to be one special player.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 4 - New Orleans Hornets - Chris Paul</font></font>
Position: PG, Height: 5-11, Weight: 175 lbs., Age: 20 (5/6/85), Team: Wake Forest University
Statistics: 15.3 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6.6 apg, 2.4 spg, 0.0 bpg, 45% FG, 47% 3pt, 83% FT, 33.4 mpg

Paul will be the highest point guard taken in this years draft. He already has a great jump shot and great leadership ability. Paul has great character and heart on the court and off the court as well. Can become a three point marksmen in the NBA one day, he already is shooting 47% from the college line. A little small though, at under six foot he will have trouble with the bigger point guards in the NBA such as your Dwyane Wades and your Jason Kidds.

Many said the Hornets were the losers of the draft when they slipped back from #2 to #4. However, with the Hawks being so enamored with Marvin Williams and the Blazers desperately needing a two-guard, it looks like the Bobcats will get their man anyway. Paul fits them perfectly with Dan Dickau likely leaving through Free Agency. They?ll still be lacking at the Small Forward position, but they could always sign or trade for someone to fill that need. Paul is too talented to pass up at #4.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 5 - Charlotte Bobcats - Deron Williams</font></font>
Position: PG, Height: 6-3, Weight: 210 lbs., Age: 20 (6/26/84), Team: University of Illinois
Statistics: 12.5 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 6.8 apg, 1.0 spg, 0.2 bpg, 43% FG, 36% 3pt, 68% FT, 33.7 mpg

Big physical point guard and uses that to his advantage. He slimmed down since you last saw him to try and address his quickness issue which was probably the only one big weakness he has coming in. You can call this guy a floor general and a very talented player on both ends of the floor. If you remember he held Arizona sharp shooter Salim Stoudamire to limited points and UNC swingman Rashad Mccants to zero points in the second half of the national championship, it wasn't enough but that was another story. Deron has great overall court vision and can always find his way to the basket using again his big, strong body.

Deron should be the second point guard taken in this years draft right behind Chris Paul and in front of Raymond Felton. Again for the second year in a row there are a lot of teams in the lottery that will be on the lookout for a pointguard such as the Raptors, Bobcats, Hornets, Jazz, and Lakers.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 6 - Utah Jazz - Raymond Felton</font></font>
Position: PG, Height: 6-0, Weight: 194 lbs., Age: 20 (6/26/84), Team: University of North Carolina
Statistics: 12.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 6.9 apg, 2.0 spg, 0.3 bpg, 46% FG, 44% 3pt, 70% FT, 31.7 mpg

Felton will be third out of the three big name point guards on most peoples boards. He is a point guard that isn't common in todays NBA; a defensive minded point guard and can make everybody on your team better. Great guy if you want to start a franchise like the Suns or Sonics that run the break well because that is where Felton excels. If he wants to be an everyday NBA point guard he will probably have to up that free throw percentage up from 70% which isn't hard to do at all. His three point percentage sky rocketed this year at UNC and he became a deep threat for the Tarheels. His one big weakness though is his height and at times he can turn the ball over a lot. Gets out of control at times. One of the best passers in college basketball this year and won the award for best point guard in the country.

A lot of teams that are picking later in the lottery would love to have Felton. I am sure Charlotte would like to see Felton some how slip past Utah and land in their lap at #13. A lot of teams will take a serious look at Felton very early in the draft as well though, such as the Raptors at #7, Utah at #6, Charlotte at #5, and New Orleans at #4. For the second year in a row, it looks like the Raptors will fall just short of landing one of the top point guards in the draft though. Last year they lost out on Livingston, Gordon, and Harris and this year it looks like they are going to miss out on Paul, Felton, and Deron Williams.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 7 - Toronto Raptors - Danny Granger -</font></font>
Position: SF, Height: 6-8, Weight: 225 lbs., Age: 22 (4/20/83), Team: University of New Mexico
Statistics: 18.8 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.1 spg, 2.0 bpg, 52% FG, 43% 3pt, 76% FT, 30.0 mpg

The reason why Granger is such a hot commodity in the draft is because of his versatility. At 6-8, he?s the perfect Small Forward. He can shoot from anywhere on the court, has a nice passing game, and thanks to his amazing wingspan, he could be the best shot blocker in the entire draft. Scouts question his ball-handling, but other than that, the only things scouts question about Granger is his durability. Granger has suffered from injuries throughout his whole career, most recently being this January when he tore his lateral meniscus. Heading into the draft though, Granger is injury free.

While the Raptor?s biggest need is a Center, the only Centers available are not worth a #7 pick, and after last year?s disaster with Rafael Aruajo, it?s unlikely that the Raptors draft another unworthy talent in the lottery just to fill a team need. The Raptors also face the same situation with Point Guards. With the best available Point Guard being Jarrett Jack, they?re likely to turn to their next greatest need, a swingman. Not only is Granger the best swingman available, but he is also probably the most sure thing in the draft. After the embarrassment last year?s draft, it would be logical to assume that Babcock wouldn?t want to risk his pick this year on a player like Taft or Andriuskevicius.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 8 - New York Knicks - Martell Webster -</font></font>
Position: SG, Height: 6-8, Weight: 235 lbs., Age: 18 (12/6/86), Team: Seattle Prep (High School)
Statistics: 20.0 ppg, 12.0 rpg, 3.5 apg, 2.0 spg, 3.0 bpg (From Junior year)

A lot of people are saying now that this kid might actually be a better prospect then Gerald Green. He has an unbelievable jumpshot and has the ability to finish off any play nicely. Has also has an NBA-ready body which is rare for a high school player. Because of this, Webster could be an instant contributer in the NBA, unlike the rail-thin Gerald Green. Even more impressive than his body and jumpshot is Webster?s character. Raised by his community after his mother disappeared in 1991, Webster won?t be a problem in the locker room for any team. Webster also wowed many scouts at the Jordan Classic, Nike Hoops Summit, and the McDonalds All-American game, where he averaged about 20 ppg between the three.

While the Knicks could use some help downlow, Isaiah Thomas won?t draft lesser talented players just to fill an immediate need. The Knicks could also use a Small Forward, but with Warrick as the best available Small Forward, it?s likely that Thomas just turns away from team needs all together and drafts the best player available, which in this case is Martell Webster. The Knicks may end up needing a Shooting Guard when it?s all said and done anyway, because Allan Houston may not return and Crawford has shown that he?s not a true Shooting Guard. Even if Houston and Crawford stay on the Knicks next season, Webster is only 18 years old and could benefit from a year or two as a backup before being thrown into the starting lineup.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 9 - Golden State Warriors - Fran Vazquez -</font></font>
Position: PF/C, Height: 6-10, Weight: 230 lbs., Age: 22 (5/1/83), Team: Unicaja (Spain)
Statistics: 10.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.8 spg, 1.4 bpg, 62% FG, 33% 3pt, 62% FT, 24 mpg

At 22 years of age, Vazquez is one of the few NBA-ready European talents. For his position, he?s a very fast and explosive player. Blessed with a large wingspan and a 6-10 body, he is also a great defensive player and a shot-blocking threat. Vazquez might be too weak to play Center, but that is where it seems he is most comfortable, which might present problems for whichever team drafts him. He is also very raw offensively with a limited amount of moves in the post. Although one of the older prospects in the draft, Vazquez could still improve greatly though, because he has a good head on his shoulders. He is a hardworking kid with a great basketball IQ that could be a great player someday.

The Warriors are a deep, talented team that will have a chance to make the playoffs this year. They are set at just about every position, but they could always use another athletic, defensive-minded big man, which is exactly what Vazquez is. He?s also a good fit because the Warriors need a player who can come in and instantly contribute. The last thing they need is a ?project? on the bench. Yet they also need someone who will be a good player in the long run, because it seems like the Warriors are poised to make more than a few playoff runs in the future and may not get another lottery pick for a while. Vazquez is one of the few players still available in the draft who can satisfy their need for a productive player in the present who still has room to improve over time. It has been suggested that they guaranteed Channing Frye a pick, and Chris Taft is supposedly getting interest from the Warriors, but if a player like Fran Vazquez is still available at #9, it?d be hard for them to pass him up.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 10 - LA Lakers - Jarrett Jack -</font></font>
Position: PG, Height: 6-3, Weight: 202 lbs., Age: 21 (10/28/83), Team: Georgia Tech
Statistics: 15.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.8 spg, 0.1 bpg, 51% FG, 44% 3pt, 87% FT, 34.1 mpg

What's not to like about Jarrett Jack? He's a proven point guard and has held his own against the other two ACC floor leaders, Chris Paul and Raymond Felton. You could even argue he's had the better of the two this year and last year. Jarrett Jack is also physically taller, stronger, longer, and a better defender. He doesn't have the explosion Paul or Felton has, but he won't need it playing for the Lakers in the Triangle offense. Jarrett Jack is an unselfish, competitive player who's great at dribble penetration and using his strength and athleticism to overpower guards. If you could use one word to describe him, 'solid' would be the best answer. Solid is what the Lakers need at this point in their rebuilding. They don't have time to develop a project or gamble on a player with 'upside.'

Adding Jack to the mix of Kobe, Butler, and Odom improves the Lakers perimeter defense and takes pressure off of Kobe to handle the offense. Some will consider Jarrett Jack a stretch at #10, but the talent in this draft isn't cut and dry. The Lakers might look to trade down and grab Jack later, but if they cannot find any takers, there's no reason for them to risk passing him up.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 11 - Orlando Magic - Hakim Warrick -</font></font>
Position: SF/PF, Height: 6-8, Weight: 218 lbs., Age: 22 (7/8/83), Team: Syracuse University
Statistics: 21.4 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.0 spg, 0.8 bpg, 55% FG, 29% 3pt, 68% FT

Warrick?s intensity level, his leaping ability, and his overall athletic ability have made him one of the biggest prospects in the draft. He could have been the best athlete in college basketball last season. He really fits the description of a tweener though. His ball-handling ability and perimeter shooting aren?t quite good enough for him to be a Small Forward, but his height, skinny frame, and interior defense aren?t good enough for him to be a Power Forward. None the less, Warrick?s short list of positives seem to outweigh the long list of negatives, and scouts have been very high on him thus far in the draft process.

A lot of people look at Warrick?s size as a big problem, but to Orlando it could end up being a very nice problem to have. With Dwight Howard now standing about 7-0 tall, there has been speculation that he will play Center next season, which would open up a spot at Power Forward for Warrick to step into. However, if they want to keep Howard at Power Forward, they could always just move Hakim Warrick to Small Forward where Grant Hill isn?t getting any younger. If they drafted a Point Guard or Shooting Guard, they wouldn?t have the options that Warrick gives them to play with their roster. It also appears as if new head coach Brian Hill wants to play Steve Francis at Shooting Guard, leaving Jameer Nelson as the team?s Point Guard.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 12 - Los Angeles Clippers - Antoine Wright -</font></font>
Position: SG/SF, Height: 6-7, Weight: 205 lbs., Age: 21 (2/6/84), Team: Texas A&M University
Statistics: 17.8 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.2 spg, 0.7 bpg, 50% FG, 45% 3pt, 69% FT, 33.9 mpg

After a subpar season his Sophomore year, Wright was one of the brightest talents in the NCAA this year. He is amazingly athletic, quick, and versatile talent who can shoot from the perimeter, hit the mid-range jumper, or drive to the hole, all with ease. He also has a decent passing game and the kind of work ethic that will make NBA coaches drool. In short, he has a very complete, all-around game and has all the tools to be one of the best rookies next season. Although solid on the defensive end of the floor, he won?t exactly blow you away, but he?s not exactly weak in any area.

The Clippers are supposedly in love with Antoine Wright?s game and guaranteed him their pick if he would shut down the rest of his workouts (which Wright declined). The Clippers could probably use a Center more than a Shooting Guard, but outside of Johan Petro, the pickings at this stage of the game are slim. Wright would be either a solid replacement for Bobby Simmons (if he should leave) or a solid backup for Corey Maggette.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 13 - Charlotte Bobcats - Rashad McCants</font></font>
Position: SG, Height: 6-4, Weight: 207 lbs., Age: 20 (9/25/84), Team: University of North Carolina
Statistics: 16.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.7 bpg, 49% FG, 42% 3 pt, 72% FT, 25.9 mpg

It's going to be interesting where McCants goes on draft day. His talent says that he should be going in the lottery, yet he his lack of height and his attitude questions may force him to be a late first round pick maybe even into the early second round. What McCants lacks in height he makes up with his athletic ability and long arms though. He?s an outstanding offensive threat who can score from anywhere on the court. If he proves in workouts and interviews that the problems that he had at North Carolina are behind him, then you may see him in the lottery if not, then June 28th going to be a long day for McCants.

The Bobcats need a Shooting Guard, and Rashad McCants would be the best one left on the board. While at North Carolina, McCants had a lot of doubters, but he also had a lot of loyal fans. Drafting McCants at #13 would be a move that would please the Tar Heel fans in Charlotte and probably sell more tickets. What non-bandwagoning North Carolina fan wouldn?t want to see McCants play alongside Deron Williams and Emeka Okafor?

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 14 - Minnesota Timberwolves - Joey Graham</font></font>
Position: SF, Height: 6-7, Weight: 225 lbs., Age: 22 (6/11/82), Team: Oklahoma State University
Statistics: 17.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 2.0 apg, 0.9 spg, 0.2 bpg, 53% FG, 47% 3pt, 89% FT, 30.6 mpg

Graham is certainly a jaw-dropping physical specimen, with his biggest asset being his strength. Pound for pound, he?s probably the strongest player in the draft (bench-pressing over 400 lbs.), yet he can play Small Forward because he also has world class athleticism. He hasn?t always been a shooter, but at Oklahoma State he developed an above average mid-range game which will help him adjust as a Small Forward as well. Graham?s defensive ability is also a valuable asset, but he can be too aggressive and thus foul prone. There are also concerns about just how effective he can be as an NBA Small Forward. His ability to create his own shot and handle the ball are concerns, and because he?s soon turning 23 years old, the potential for any serious improvement is getting smaller.

Minnesota doesn?t necessarily have one primary need this offseason. Sprewell is leaving during Free Agency, and they should look to shop Cassell, Olowokandi, and Sczerbiak, so their only set position is Power Forward with Garnett, and even that could change. It would make sense that McHale drafts the most NBA-ready prospect with this pick, Joey Graham.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 15 - New Jersey Nets - Chris Taft - </font> </font>
Position: PF/C, Height: 6-10, Weight: 260 lbs., Age: 20 (3/10/85), Team: University of Pittsburgh
Statistics: 13.3 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 0.8 apg, 0.4 spg, 1.7 bpg, 58% FG, N/A 3pt, 59% FT, 26.5 mpg

Potential is what keeps Taft?s name at the top of many scouts? draft lists. He has an NBA-ready body and can be a very aggressive rebounder. Taft didn?t meet the expectations of many of those scouts this season, but he did show flashes of dominance that helped him retain the ?potential? label. At times, it?s difficult to understand why Taft is even considered a first round lock though. He was probably only the third best player on Pittsburgh last season and had only six double-digit rebounding games during the regular season. He?s very inconsistent; scoring eight points and grabbing five rebounds one night and then scoring twenty-five points and grabbing fifteen rebounds the next. This is probably a product of his poor work ethic and lack of motivation. If he wants to make it in the NBA, he?ll need to be hungrier. Right now, his work ethic is almost nonexistent. When Taft works hard, he?s one of the best players in the nation, but those performances have become too sporadic to merit a top ten pick.

It?s no secret that Chris Taft?s stock has taken some hard blows with recent unmotivated workouts in New York. The same scouts who once drooled over him during his Freshman season at Pittsburgh are now questioning whether or not he?s worth the risk of a lottery pick. However, don?t expect his stock to slip past New Jersey. As the Nets learned in the first round of the playoffs this year, they lack size and a serious rebounding threat. They?re more than satisfied with Nenad Krstic, so they?ll more than likely be looking for this size and rebounding at the Power Forward position rather than the Center position. If Taft is left on the board, he?d be too hard to pass up. With a top ten pick, you can be picky about his work ethic, but the Nets have too much of a need for a low post threat to pass on Taft.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 16 - Toronto Raptors - Channing Frye - </font> </font>
Position: C, Height: 6-11, Weight: 248, Age: 22 (5/17/83), Team: University of Arizona
Statistics: 15.8 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 1.9 apg, 2.3 bpg, 55% FG, 18% 3pt, 83% FT, 31 mpg

Frye is not going to overpower defenders in the post, but he has a nice touch around the basket and his range extends beyond that of a normal Center. With his massive wingspan, Frye is also a serious shot-blocking threat on defense. His weight is going to be a concern on the NBA level though. Many see him as a player who can contribute immediately his rookie year, but he?s so considerably skinnier than most NBA big men that he?s likely going to have to put on some more weight to be effective. Channing was one of the best Centers in the Pac-10 last season, but he was never really a dominant force inside, recording only six double-doubles on the year. He was also about as inconsistent as any player in the NCAA, going from eight point and three rebound performances to eighteen point and sixteen rebound performances in only slightly more playing time.

Lucky for Frye, he is a near seven-footer Center in a draft that desperately lacks quality Centers outside of Andrew Bogut, and he?ll probably be drafted higher than he should be because of it. The Raptors just happen to be a team that?s in need of a quality Center after the failures of Rafael Araujo, and they have been rumored to give Frye interest with their #7 pick, so at #16 he?d be a steal for them.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 17 - Indiana Pacers - Marko Tomas -</font></font>
Position: SG, Height: 6-8, Weight: 198 lbs., Age: 20 (1/3/85), Team: KK Zagreb (Croatia)
Statistics: 21.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.6 spg, 0.4 bpg, 47% FG, 40% 3pt, 76% FT, 34.6 mpg

Unlike many European prospects, Marko Tomas is out there for all to see. He averages more minutes per game than Tiago Splitter and Johan Petro combined, and he constantly has the ball in his hands. Tomas narrowly missed the MVP trophy in the Goodyear League and had several breakout performances, including a 42 points game on 8-9 three point shooting. Through it all, he earned a reputation as a deadly outside shooter who can shoot from anywhere on the court. Tomas declared last season and attended the Chicago Predraft Camp but pulled out after a disappointing performance. While there, he measured in with a very short 6-7 wingspan and showed that he needed to work on creating his own shot as well as his quickness.

Larry Bird loves Marko Tomas. He has traveled to Trnsko more than once just to see Tomas for himself. With his shooting touch, he?d also fit in well as replacement for Reggie Miller. Tomas? status in the draft is uncertain though. With the potential of an age limit next season, Tomas could up his stock from the ?mid-to-late first? level to the top ten. His team wants more than a million dollars for a buyout, so that might deter Tomas from jumping to the NBA as well. He would also have to stay in Europe for a few years because his contract has a four year contract with Zagreb that has a no escape clause. That shouldn?t bother Indiana though. They?re not in need of any immediate help from a rookie with Artest coming back next season.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 18 - Boston Celtics - Tiago Splitter -</font></font>
Position: PF, Height: 6-11, Weight: 236 lbs., Age: 20 (1/1/85), Team: TAU Ceramica (Spain)
Statistics: 8.7 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.7 spg, 0.9 bpg, 57% FG, 0% 3pt, 66% FT, 19 mpg

For a big man, Splitter?s combination of athleticism, footwork, and just overall mobility is very impressive. Although he can be inconsistent at times, he also has nice range for a big man. The only question is whether or not he can utilize these tools to be a successful NBA Power Forward. So far he hasn?t received very much playing time from TAU Ceramica, so nobody knows just how durable he is. He?ll need to add a lot of weight, because his current body will take a pounding in the NBA, especially if he plans on making the transition to Center. The main hindrance on Splitter?s draft stock is his contract with TAU Ceramica though. It?s clear that there will be a rather large buyout on Splitter?s contract, whenever it can be negotiated.

With LaFrentz, Jefferson, Perkins, and Blount, the Celtics would have a loaded frontcourt if they could resign Antoine Walker. Having Tiago Splitter as insurance just incase things didn?t work out between the Celtics and Walker wouldn?t hurt though. Even if Walker resigns, Tiago would be considered a steal at #18, as he is receiving interest as high as the #9 and #10 picks, and it wouldn?t hurt the Celtics to pick him up just because he?s the best player available. There is also the possibility of Splitter staying in Europe for a few more years before coming to Boston. He may not fix any immediate needs for the Celtics, but he?d be a great long-term investment.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 19 - Memphis Grizzlies - Johan Petro -</font></font>
Position: C, Height: 7-0, Weight: 260 lbs., Age: 19 (1/27/86), Team: Pau Orthez (France)
Statistics: 6.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.6 spg, 0.6 bpg, 52% FG, N/A 3pt, 72% FT, 13.0 mpg

Johan Petro has turned a lot of heads thus far simply because of his body. Physically, he?s an amazing prospect. He?s 7-0, 260 lbs. with an enormous wingspan and a very athletic body. Although he?s physically intriguing, Petro is also extremely raw in almost every area. Like most European prospects, Petro is only seeing limited time (13 mpg) and hasn?t been playing basketball for very long (it?s rumored that he didn?t start playing until Junior High). His effort and heart has also been questioned more than any other player in the draft outside of Chris Taft and Charlie Villanueva.

If the Grizzlies don?t trade their pick, they will either draft a Point Guard incase Earl Watson leaves as a Free Agent or a Center incase Stromile Swift leaves as a Free Agent. It has also been speculated that they?ll be looking at European prospects who they can keep overseas for a few years to develop for cap reasons (the Grizzlies have the seventh highest payroll in the NBA). Johan Petro fits the description of the player the Grizzlies are shopping for better than anyone in the draft. He also has everything that Jerry West loved about Stromile Swift; his length, athleticism, and shot blocking. So it?s easy to see Petro as Swift?s replacement.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 20 - Denver Nuggets - Sean May -</font></font>
Position: PF, Height: 6-9, Weight: 260 lbs., Age: 21 (4/4/84), Team: University of North Carolina
Statistics: 17.5 ppg, 10.7 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.0 bpg, 57% FG, 0% 3pt, 76% FT, 26.8 mpg

May showed last season at North Carolina that he has one of the best post games in the nation. While there is a lot of concern about his size (listed at 6-9 but is closer to 6-8), history has shown that an undersized post player can succeed if he has all the right tools, and May has all those tools. His footwork is excellent, he has a very strong and bulky body, he possesses an amazing pair of hands, and he has great touch around the basket. May also comes from a basketball family. His father, Scott May, is a former #2 pick and Chicago Bull. However, some teams will be too scared to draft May because of his lack of size, lack of athleticism, and May?s overweight body, so it?s easy to see Sean May slipping on draft night.

May would be a good pick for the Nuggets because he?s the best player available, and don?t expect North Carolina?s George Karl to pass up on the pride and joy of Chapel Hill. With their second pick just one spot away, the Nuggets would be smarter to pick up May now. The Phoenix Suns, who have the pick between Denver?s two picks, will be focusing on getting size in the draft, so they?d probably take May if Denver didn?t. However, they more than likely won?t be taking any Shooting Guards away from Denver. Besides, the chances of Kenyon Martin having an injury-free season are slim, and the Nuggets may try to shop either him or Nene in the offseason.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 21 - Phoenix Suns - Andrew Bynum -</font></font>
Position: C, Height: 7-0, Weight: 295lbs., Age: 17, Team: St. Joseph (High School)
Statistics: 17.0 ppg, 13.0 rpg

After watching the Suns get dominated inside the paint against the San Antonio Spurs, their obvious need is size inside. At 7'0, 295, Andrew Bynum gives the Suns plenty of size and a potential starting center to play alongside Amare Stoudemire for the next decade.

There is still a strong chance Bynum withdraws his name and goes to UConn next year. He wants to be selected by a lottery team, and there's a rumor he already has a guarantee. However, guarantees don't always pan out and Bynum might be stuck in the draft and find himself dropping to the mid to late first round by the end of the night.

If he does end up in Phoenix, his demands to be a lottery pick might go away. He will have a chance to play for a contending team right away, and should get decent playing time in Phoenix. The Suns don't implement a play book, and just flat out run on offense. Bynum should have no problem running down the lane and catching Steve Nash passes.

With 25 teams getting a look at him this week, the Bynum-Scenario will become a lot more clear.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 22 - Denver Nuggets - Rudy Fernandez -</font></font>
Position: SG, Height: 6-5, Weight: 185 lbs., Age: 20 (4/4/85), Team: DKV Joventut (Spain)
Statistics: 10.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.3 bpg, 46% FG, 37% 3pt, 73% FT, 27 mpg

The most common word used to describe Rudy Fernandez is usually maturity. He is performing in high pressure situations while making great decisions and keeping a cool head, and is also one of the hardest working guards you will find in Europe. He?s a great at penetrating, yet he?s also a great shooter from just about anywhere on the floor. Overall, his game is very well rounded. The only complaints GM?s usually have are that he?s took weak and skinny.

With the Nuggets taking Sean May with their #20 pick, they?ll need to look to meet their greatest need with this pick, a Shooting Guard. The things they?d be looking for in a Shooting Guard would all be things that Rudy Fernandez could provide too; consistent range, tough defense, and versatility.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 23 - Sacramento Kings - Ike Diogu -</font></font>
Position: PF, Height: 6-8, Weight: 255 lbs., Age: 21 (9/11/83), Team: Arizona State University
Statistics: 22.6 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.6 spg, 2.3 bpg, 58% FG, 40% 3pt, 80% FT, 36.4 mpg

Ike Diogu has all of the characteristics you look for in a Power Forward. He?s bulky, has great footwork, plays great defense, has an amazing work ethic, never loses intensity, gets to the line a lot, and has a nice midrange jumpshot. Last season, he broke the Pac-10 record for free-throws made (229) and ranked second in the NCAA in free-throw attempts (400). More importantly though, he made the majority of his free-throws. He shot about 12% better from the line than Hakeem Warrick, the NCAA leader in free-throw attempts. There is a lot of concern about whether or not Ike Diogu can play at either of the forward positions in the NBA though. He?s undersized for a Power Forward, and although he?s a decent shooter and fairly athletic, he doesn?t excel with either attribute enough to compete as a Small Forward in the NBA. Like Wayne Simien, Diogu could also have problems on defense against the taller competition of the NBA. It also wouldn?t hurt Diogu to reduce his body fat and increase his muscle mass.

Diogu is a good pick for the Kings because he provides the offensive post presence they miss from Webber. Unlike Webber, Diogu can also run the floor well.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 24 - Houston Rockets - Wayne Simien -</font></font>
Position: PF, Height: 6-9, Weight: 255 lbs., Age: 22 (3/9/83), Team: Kansas University
Statistics: 20.3 ppg, 11.0 rpg, 1.4 apg, 0.6 spg, 0.6 bpg, 55% FG, 29% 3pt, 82% FT, 34.3 mpg

With a combination of strength, positioning, physicality, and sheer aggressiveness, Wayne Simien could possibly be the best rebounder in the entire draft. Offensively, Simien also has a wide array of post moves in his repertoire, and he also has a decent mid-range jumper that often goes unused. It should also be noted that in his first two seasons, Simien was taught by two of the best Power Forwards in NCAA basketball in the last ten years, Drew Gooden and Nick Collison There are only two weaknesses keeping Simien from a lottery pick; the first of which is his height. Standing at 6-8, Simien was able to dominate the college game because most of his competition ranged from 6-6 to 6-11, but in the NBA the tables will be turned and Simien will be very undersized. Power Forwards like Elton Brand and Zach Randolph have shown that height isn?t as important as bulk and good low post skills, but many GM?s will still be hesitant to draft 6-8 Simien over a 6-10 or 6-11 prospect. The other main weakness is his proneness to injury. Injuries have plagued Simien since his High School career, where he had to sit out the McDonald?s All-American game with a dislocated shoulder, and they?ve followed him all the way through this year, where Simien only played 26 games. Leaving Kansas, Simien only played 106 games as a Jayhawk, which is 22 less than his teammate Aaron Miles.

Simien makes sense as a Rocket, because the Rockets need a tough, rebounding threat downlow to play alongside Yao Ming. The Rockets should also just be on the lookout for the best power forward left on the board when they pick at number 24. They?ll look at others that should still be on the board like Andray Blatche and Andrew Bynum, but Simien is a better fit than the Rockets and will take less time to develop. If you?re a low post player, you?ll get a look from the Rockets at #24.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 25 - Seattle Supersonics - Charlie Villanueva</font></font>
Position: SF/PF, Height: 6-11, Weight: 240 lbs., Age: 20 (8/24/84), Team: University of Connecticut
Statistics: 13.6 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.6 spg, 1.8 bpg, 52% FG, 50% 3pt, 69% FT, 25.8 mpg

Standing at about 7-0, Charlie Villanueva is probably the most versatile big man in the draft. With his combination of ball handling skills, outside shooting, and a stellar post game, he can play anything from a Small Forward to a Center in the NBA. He also has the athleticism of a His athleticism also rivals that of many Shooting Guard prospects in the draft. His game isn?t the problem though. It?s his consistency, effort, and intensity. When Villanueva declared for the draft last season, many scouts walked out on his workout halfway through in disgust because of the lack of effort and intensity involved. That is why his draft position is so up in the air; nobody knows how General Managers and scouts will view his work ethic. He could go as high as #8 or as low as #26.

This offseason should be hectic for the Sonics. Ray Allen, Jerome James, Reggie Evans, Ronald Murray, Damien Wilkins, and the almighty Mateen Cleaves are all Free Agents (although some are restricted). Not only do they face the challenge of resigning those players but also the challenge of signing potential replacements. They?re also a young team with many talented young players, such as Nick Collison, Luke Ridnour, and Robert Swift, who you don?t know what to expect from next season. With that said, they?ll just take the best player available, Charlie Villanueva, who is a big steal at #25. The good thing about having Villanueva is that he is versatile enough to play three positions, which gives the Sonics more options in the offseason.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 26 - Detroit - Kennedy Winston - </font> </font>
Position: SG, Height: 6-6, Weight: 230 lbs., Age: 20 (7/29/84), Team: University of Alabama
Statistics: 17.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.6 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 46% FG, 43% 3pt, 78% FT, 34.4 mpg

Very few players in the draft possess the complete offensive game that Kennedy Winston does. His scoring ability ranks among the best in the draft, and he has the athleticism and ball handling to take on just about anyone in the league one-on-one. While his effort on defense is often questioned, it?s evident that he has been working on his game. When he came in as a Freshman at Alabama, Winston only shot 37% from the field and 21% from beyond the arc, but this past season he has boosted those percentages to 46% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc (better than J.J. Redick).

The Pistons don?t really have a glaring need. They are set in the frontcourt with Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, Antonio McDyess, Tayshaun Prince, as well as Darko Milicic and Carlos Delfino who should both have more important roles with the team next season. They?re also set in the backcourt with Chauncey Billups, Carlos Arroyo, Richard Hamilton. However, they could always get a better backup for Richard Hamilton than Ronald Dupree. With Rashad McCants off the board it looks like Kennedy Winston is the bet fit here.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 27 - Utah - Yaroslav Korolev - </font></font>
Position: SF, Height: 6-9, Weight: 203 lbs., Age: 18 (5/7/87), Team: CSKA Moscow (Russia)
Statistics: 16.2 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 2.6 apg, 2.0 spg, 1.1 bpg, 54% FG, 42% 3pt, 79% FT, 26.2 mpg

At 6-9, Korolev has the package of height and athleticism to be an impact Small Forward. He?s a highlight reel waiting to happen and displays an all-around game. He recently led his Junior Team, CSKA Moscow, to the Kamkabel International Junior Championship by scoring 20 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, and dishing out 4 assists in 34 minutes. However, there are a few concerns about how he will handle the NBA on a mental level. Some believe Korolev has a bad attitude, and there is also the concern over the fact that he has never played basketball on the Senior level.

Korolev would be a great steal for the Jazz at #27. In fact, it?s been speculated that Korolev could be going as high as #16 to the Raptors. With the Jazz likely taking care of their Point Guard need with their first pick, they?ll probably be looking for either the best player available or a European that they can leave overseas for a year or two with the #27. Since Korolev is both the best available player and a young European who can play overseas for a few years before coming to the NBA, he?s exactly what it seems like the Jazz are looking for. There is also the prospect of having Russian superstar Andrei Kirilenko mentor Korolev once he makes it to the NBA. Many people actually compare Korolev to a less defensive minded Kirilenko.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 28 - San Antonio Spurs - Julius Hodge -</font> </font>
Position: PG/SG/SF, Height: 6-6, Weight: 210lbs., Age: 21 (11/18/83), Team: North Carolina St.
Statistics: 17.0 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 4.8 apg, 0.7bpg, 1.4spg, 49% FG, 26% 3 pt, 67% FT, 34.6 mpg

No one is improving their stock more than Julius Hodge according to multiple scouts. From not being drafted, to becoming a sure first rounder, to being mentioned as a mid first rounder now. So what is Hodge doing to sky rocket up? It has come down to Hodge being able to play the point guard position in the NBA. Hodge is quickly turning heads with his ability to handle the floor leader role, and at 6-6, he is the ideal size for a point-forward.

Julius Hodge also had a tremendous tournament, although that seems light ages ago. He can play 3 positions, defends well, great character, coachable, and has a solid all-around game.

If Hodge drops to the Spurs at #28, it's hard to see them pass him up. He would be a servicable backup to Parker, Gino, or Bowen with his skill set. Along with Luis Scola coming over next season, the Spurs will have an even deeper roster next season. Hodge would join the long list of late round steals for the Spurs. He would likely be groomed to be the eventual replacement for Bruce Bowen, who turns 34 this year.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 29 - Miami Heat - David Lee -</font> </font>
Position:: PF, Height: 6-9, Weight: 240lbs., Age: 22, (4/29/83) Team: University of Florida
Statistics: 13.6 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.8 bpg, 53% FG, 0% 3pt, 71% FT, 28.0 mpg

Lee is an intriguing prospect because of his many offensive talents. Although a post player, Lee has athleticism and leaping ability that you don?t find in some wing players. As his numbers at Florida show, he also has a very solid work ethic and is usually very intense and aggressive. His footwork and positioning in the post are terrific, but he also he lacks a serious outside game. When you take that into consideration, along with the fact that he has a relatively weak body, Lee could be considered a tweener in the NBA. He?ll need to bulk up and prove he can compete against bigger forwards in the NBA to shake that label be a first round pick, but he has impressed enough scouts and GM?s so far to get heavy consideration as one.

The Heat are set at Point Guard, Shooting Guard, Small Forward, and Center but might lose Udonis Haslem, Christian Laettner, Wang Zhizhi, or Alanzo Mourning to Free Agency, so they?ll definitely need to add another lowpost player in the draft. This pick is really a tossup. There are three or four Power Forward who could go to the Heat, but we?ll give David Lee the edge for now. He?s better offensively than any big man that the Heat currently have, outside of Shaq of course. They struggle getting offensive productivity in the post when Shaq is on the bench. And not only would the University of Florida graduate be a fan favorite, but he could also be leverage for his former teammate, Udonis Haslem, to return in a Heat uniform.

<font size="3"><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 30 - New York Knicks - Andray Blatche -</font> </font>
Position: PF/C, Height: 7-0, Weight: 230lbs., Age: 18 (8/22/86), Team: South Kent Prep (High School)
Statistics:

Andray Blatche took over the #1 ranking for big men for his 2005 class. He also moved up to the #3 ranking in the nation according to Prep Roundball and ranked #7 for Rivals. Scouts have always had interest in Blatche's physical skills, and he drew immediate comparisons to Kevin Garnett and Lamar Odom because of it. His gaudy high school numbers spoke for themselves, especially averaging 8 blocks and 17 rebounds per game. After taking over in the Jordan Game with 26 points and 16 rebounds, he won MVP honors for his team and moved out of late 2nd round considerations and on to the 1st round bubble.

The knock on Blatche is his tendency to hang out too, much on the perimeter instead of using his length more in the post. He's also been questioned for his work ethic and competitive spirit.

However, at #30, the Knicks can afford to gamble on Blatche and force him to compete for minutes against their many PFs. With Blatche's perimeter tendencies he could turn out to be another Jonathan Bender, or possibly a Rashard Lewis. Being a native of Syracuse, Blatche will have the community support in NY, which should help his confidence. He also won't have much pressure to step right in and be an impact right away. Isiah Thomas has no problem drafting high school prospects.

<font face="Lucida Console"><font size="4">2nd Round -</font></font>

#31 Atlanta - Louis Williams (HSSr., SG/PG, 6-2, 175 lbs.)
#32 Los Angeles Clippers - Randolph Morris (Kentucky, Fr., PF/C, 6-10, 266 lbs.)
#33 New Orleans Hornets (from CHA) - Ryan Gomes (Providence, Sr., Small Forward, 6-7, 248 lbs.)
#34 Utah Jazz - Predrag Samardziski (Partizan Belgrade, Center, 7-1, 240 lbs.)
#35 Portland Trailblazers - Francisco Garcia (Louisville, Jr., Shooting Guard, 6-7, 190 lbs.)
#36 Milwaukee Bucks - Ronny Turiaf (Gonzaga, Sr., Power Forward, 6-10, 249 lbs.)
#37 Los Angeles Lakers - Dee Brown (Illinois, Jr., Point Guard, 5-11, 175 lbs.)
#38 Toronto Raptors - Monta Ellis (HSSr., SG/PG, 6-2, 160 lbs.)
#39 Los Angeles Lakers - Brandon Bass (Louisiana St., So., Power Forward, 6-7, 246 lbs.)
#40 Golden State Warriors - Micka?l Gelabale (Real Madrid, Small Forward, 6-7, 175 lbs.)
#41 Orlando Magic - John Gilchrist (Maryland, Jr., Point Guard, 6-3, 194. lbs.)
#42 Golden State Warriors - Nate Robinson (Washington, Jr., Point Guard, 5-9, 180 lbs.)
#43 New Jersey Nets - Mile Ilic (KK Reflex, Center, 7-1, 230 lbs.)
#44 Orlando Magic (from CLE) - Kosta Perovic (Partizan Belgrade, Center, 7-2, 242 lbs.)
#45 Detroit Pistons (from DET) - CJ Miles (HSSr., Shooting Guard, 6-5, 195 lbs.)
#46 Indiana Pacers - Luther Head (Illinois, Sr., SG/PG, 6-3, 185 lbs.)
#47 Minnesota Timberwolves - Eddie Basden (Charlotte, Sr., Shooting Guard, 6-5, 205 lbs.)
#48 Seattle Supersonics (from MEM) - Matt Walsh (Florida, Jr., Shooting Guard, 6-6, 205 lbs.)
#49 Washington Wizards - Deji Akindele (Chicago St., So., Center, 7-1, 240 lbs.)
#50 Boston Celtics - Salim Stoudamire (Arizona, Sr., Shooting Guard, 6-1, 179 lbs.)
#51 Utah Jazz (from CHI) - Angelo Gigli (Pallacanestro Reggiana, SF/PF, 6-10, 210 lbs.)
#52 Denver Nuggets - Marko Lekic (Atlas, PF/C, 6-11, 264 lbs.)
#53 Boston Celtics (from SAC) - Daniel Ewing (Duke, Sr., Point Guard, 6-3, 185 lbs.)
#54 New York Knicks (from HOU) - Sean Banks (Memphis, So., Small Forward, 6-8, 206 lbs.)
#55 Seattle Supersonics - Mike Wilkinson (Wisconsin, Sr., SF/PF, 6-8, 240 lbs.)
#56 Detroit Pistons - Linas Kleiza (Missouri, So., Power Forward, 6-8, 233 lbs.)
#57 Phoenix Suns (from DAL) - Stefano Mancinelli (Skipper Bologna, Small Forward, 6-8, 216 lbs.)
#58 Toronto Raptors (from MIA) - Tiras Wade (LA Lafayette, Jr., Shooting Guard, 6-7, 210 lbs.)
#59 Atlanta Hawks (from SA) - Alan Anderson (Michigan State, Sr., SF/SG, 6-6, 220 lbs.)
#60 Utah Jazz (from PHX) - Jawad Williams (North Carolina, Sr., Small Forward, 6-9, 220 lbs.)

Just Outside: Bracey Wright (Indiana), Taylor Coppenrath (Vermont), B.J. Elder (Georgia Tech), Dijon Thompson (UCLA), Lawrence Roberts (Mississippi St.), Anthony Roberson (Florida), Kelenna Azubuike (Kentucky), Kevin Pittsnogle (West Virginia), Jared Homan (Iowa St.), Torin Francis (Notre Dame)

<u>Best of the Rest</u>
<font size="1">(**Note players are listed in alphabetical order.)</font>

Alex Acker (Pepperdine), John Allen (Seton Hall), Moussa Badiane (Eastern Carolina), Turner Battle (Buffalo) Jose Juan Barea (Northeastern), Murilo Becker (Int.), Odartey Blankson (UNLV), Luka Bogdanovic (Int.), Darren Brooks (Southern Illinois), Keith Brumbaugh (HSSr.), Will Bynum (Georgia Tech), Ivan Chiriaav (Int.), Will Conroy (Washington), Jermareo Davidson (Alabama), Drake Diener (DePaul, Travis Diener (Marquette), Toney Douglas (Auburn), Olu Famutimi (Arkansas), D?or Fischer (West Virginia), Eddy Fobbs (Sam Houston St.), Sharrod Ford (Clemson), Deng Gai (Fairfield), Marcin Gortat (Int.), Stephen Graham (Oklahoma St.), Quemont Greer (Depaul), Chuck Hayes (Kentucky), Chris Hernandez (Stanford), Edu Hernandez (Int.), Axel Hervelle (Int.), Chris Hill (Michigan St.), Antonio Hudson (LSU), Marcelo Huertas (Int.), Amir Johnson (HSSr., Dwayne Jones (St. Joseph?s), Mindaugas Katelynas (UT-Chattanooga), Carl Krauser (Pittsburgh), Keith Langford (Kansas), Terrence Leather (South Florida), Jamaal Levy (Wake Forest), Rob Little (Stanford), Kresmir Loncar (Int.), Erazem Lorbek (Int./Michigan St.), John Lucas (Oklahoma St.), Milan Majstorovic (Int.), Jackie Manuel (North Carolina), Rawle Marshall (Oakland), Chet Mason (Miami of OH), Jason Maxiell (Cincinnati), Ed McCants (Wisconsin-Milwaukee), Scooter McFadgon (Tennessee), Glen McGowan (Pepperdine), Juan Mendez (Niagra), Pops Mensah-Bonsu (George Washington), Aaron Miles (Kansas), Ellis Myles (Louisville), Matt Nelson (Colorado St., Rory O?Neil (Southern California), Andre Owens (Houston), Josh Pace (Syracuse), Pierre Pierce (Iowa), Carlos Powell (South Carolina), Roger Powell, Jr. (Illinois), Shavlik Randolph (Duke), Filiberto Rivera (UTEP), Brandon Rush (HSSr.), Dusan Sakota (Int.), Corey Santee (TCU), Luke Schenscher (Georgia Tech), Ricky Shields (Rutgers), Tre Simmons (Washington), Marcus Slaughter (San Diego St.), Steven Smith (La Salle), Uros Slokar (Int.), Tim Smith (East Tenn. St.), Donell Taylor (UAB), Chris Thomas (Notre Dame), Omar Thomas (UTEP), Dijon Thompson (UCLA), Kelvin Torbert (Michigan St.), Chevon Troutman (Pittsburgh), Vladimir Vermeenko (Int.), Marcus Vinicius (Int.), Von Wafer (Florida St.), James White (Cincinnati), Eric Williams (Wake Forest)

 

Let me just say that this is one hell of a mock draft. Everyone on JBB has been waiting anxiously for this and it was definitely worth it. I can only imagine what kind of work it took writing up all of that, researching the stats and then finally formatting the piece to look like that. Big ups to you, Shape, Voodoo and CourtKing. Thank you for providing us with such a top quality mock.

I agree with you on the selection of Martell Webster. The Knicks can definitely use a lights-out shooter with the potential of Webster and with Taft killing his stock this badly, Isiah is definitely not wanting this guy in the Garden. Isiah is not high at all on Houston?s return and even suggested retirement to him so an NBA-ready player who can spread the floor is the route I?m in favor of for the Knicks.

Blatche is definitely a project for the Knicks, but when you have a big, around here you just send him to Aguirre. I think Blatche will be very interesting for him because he came in with a great jumper and athleticism. I?m anxious to see what kind of player he can become; that is if he tries is hardest.

Again, thank you for the mock guys. Hopefully we?ll be able to have some more with this type of quality! :simle:

 

Wow, guys, great mock. While I'm surprised by a few selections, the info you guys provide is great. Warrick to the Magic would be a big development, along with a couple other selections you've forcasted. You even show love for mah boy Mike Wilkinson All in all, a great looking mock and kudos to you guys for all the hard work the past couple months

 

Excellent job to everyone that put their time and effort into it. I really like the analysis and I don't think you could have done better. Great work.

 

Great mock by all of the guys who put their time and effort into it. THe only thing I dunno about is the Heat taking Lee over Blatche and Vilanueva going all the way down to 25.

 

wow

This mock was jaw-dropping good. Everytime you guys proved the reasoning behind your picks and made it hard to argue with them. Great job

 

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting dunkaholic32:</div><div class="quote_post">Great mock by all of the guys who put their time and effort into it. THe only thing I dunno about is the Heat taking Lee over Blatche and Vilanueva going all the way down to 25.</div>

First of all, thank you to everyone who replied to our mock draft! Second of all, I know that Blatche and Villanueva are both steals. The main reason we had Villanueva slipping so far is because we couldn't see a definite need for him with picks #19-24. He has the talent to be as high as a #8 or #9 pick, but first he'll also have to dispell rumors that he is lazy or doesn't have a good work ethic. Those labels can be real killers on draft night. As for Lee over Blatche, that move was made primarily because the Heat are contenders in the present and are in more of a need of a player who would make an immediate impact. They also need someone a little tougher downlow (although it's odd to think of Lee as tough) than Blatche who can step right into minutes if Udonis Haslem leaves as a free agent. Also, Lee is a University of Florida graduate and a fan favorite. As irrelevant as that sounds, it could play a role in whether they pick Lee or a player like Blatche or Turiaf.

Keep the comments/questions coming!

 

Best mock on the net period. Great job.

 

This seriously is the best mock I've seen-better than nbadraft.net, better than espn.com, cbs.sportsline, better than everyone. great, great job guys!

 

Yeah, very good work guys! I too see nothing wrong with the mock and I actually think Charlie Villanueva will fall to the late first round. He is lazy at times like you all said and lacks that killer instinct. That's something he's going to have to work on improving during summer camps.

 

That was a great mock draft that I was looking forward to thank you very much for everyone who put there time and thought into this because I know it takes alot of it to figure out who should go where and who fits best on what team and so on. That was well worth the wait and I hope Portland does take Green because he will have a bright future in my opinion.

Ya thanks to everyone who put ther hard work and time into this just awesome and amazing stuff and great info for why you think they'll go there.

 

Good Mock Draft, it was worth waiting for. I think you guys forgot 1 guy who was suppose to be a first rounder- Roko-Leni Ukic, 6-5 PG Split(Croatia). I don't see him on their and Utah would take him with the last pick because he can stay overseas too. Then why did Salim Stoudamire fall so low, didn't you read the interview from Portland, he's clean shaven, said he'd play the PG position, and would like to prove all the critics wrong about saying he's not a PG. Then the 58th pick the Raptors have, they'll pick Juan Mendez over Tiras Wade, because they're high on him.
Then for Utah why pass-up Ronny Turiaf, and Francisco Garcia for that 7-1 project?
But overall the best mock draft ever! Tops Doyell's mock draft!!! LOL

 

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting J_Ray:</div><div class="quote_post">Good Mock Draft, it was worth waiting for. I think you guys forgot 1 guy who was suppose to be a first rounder- Roko-Leni Ukic, 6-5 PG Split(Croatia). </div>I would look for the Raptors to draft him with the 16th pick as opposed to Channing Frye. The Raptors would still want to grab a point guard and probably would not be worried about Ukic staying a year in Croatia because they have Rafer already. Just a thought.

Great work on the mock draft. I know there is more updates to come but so far this mock is probably better than the rest on the net.

 

So is that 7-2 Lithuanian guy pulling out too? Martynas Andruivecius or whatever his name is, because he isn't on here either, unless i'm blind, (could be?)

 

<div class="quote_poster">Quoting J_Ray:</div><div class="quote_post">Good Mock Draft, it was worth waiting for. I think you guys forgot 1 guy who was suppose to be a first rounder- Roko-Leni Ukic, 6-5 PG Split(Croatia). I don't see him on their and Utah would take him with the last pick because he can stay overseas too. Then why did Salim Stoudamire fall so low, didn't you read the interview from Portland, he's clean shaven, said he'd play the PG position, and would like to prove all the critics wrong about saying he's not a PG.
Then for Utah why pass-up Ronny Turiaf, and Francisco Garcia for that 7-1 project?
But overall the best mock draft ever! Tops Doyell's mock draft!!! LOL</div>

Thanks again for all of the positive feedback everyone!

Actually, we left Roko-Leni Ukic out on purpose, as well as Martynas Andriuskevicius and Nemanja Aleksandrov. Although they all declared, it's likely that they pull their names out if they don't get promises. And while Ukic has received great reviews from General Managers and scouts, it's still unseen whether a team will give him a promise. In about a week and a half, he plays at the Reebok Eurocamp. How he performs in that camp will play a major role in where he is drafted, and we wanted to wait to see what he does before we added him.

As for Salim Stoudamire, I wouldn't say he fell exactly. He measured in at 6-0, and although he says he can play Point Guard, it's undeniable that he's a Shooting Guard and that's where he's more comfortable. If the team that drafted him was wise, they'd play him as one too. It's also just a deep draft, and that's what hurts him. Look at the players in front of him. Luther Head from Illinois is only a few picks ahead of Stoudamire, and Head is three inches taller. Once some of the early entries start pulling out, Stoudamire should move up in our mock draft though.

We have Predrag Samardziski going to the Jazz at #34 for many reasons. First of all, (and I believe you even said it yourself) the Jazz don't really have a solid backup Center. Curtis Borchardt has been in the league for two years now and still has a career high of 12 points, and while I'm sure the Jazz love the 4.5 ppg that Ben Handlogten gives them, he's a Free Agent and might not even be back next season. Second of all, the Jazz have five picks in the draft and only twelve roster spots. Drafting Korolev, Smardziski, and Gigli would be great for the Jazz because they can all play overseas for a year or two before taking up a roster spot on the Jazz. Third of all, the Jazz are supposedly very interested in Samardziski and might have taken him with their #15 pick last year. Lastly, he's a very intriguing prospect who could easily be a first round pick this year. I'm not sure if I'd say that he's the best player available here, but he'd be close.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">I would look for the Raptors to draft him with the 16th pick as opposed to Channing Frye. The Raptors would still want to grab a point guard and probably would not be worried about Ukic staying a year in Croatia because they have Rafer already. Just a thought. </div>

Believe me, CourtVision, we're in the same boat about Ukic. If we were ready to put him in our mock draft, we would probably put him somewhere around that #16 pick, perhaps even as high as #14 to the Timberwolves. However, Frye is still a great pick for the Raptors. Without Ukic in consideration, you have Louis Williams, Dee Brown, Monta Ellis, and John Gilchrist as your best available Point Guards. Do any of those guys sound like #16 picks to you? Last year the Raptors drafted Araujo, the best available Center (in their minds), despite the fact that he wasn't the best prospect available, and look what happened; they were burned. Do you think Babcock would make the same mistake again? The Raptors still need that Center, Frye is the best Center available (arguably), and the Raptors have been rumored to take him as high as #7. What's not to like about that pick? I thought that a draft of Granger, Frye, Ellis, and Wade would be a dream come true for Raptors fans. They satisfy every one of their needs.

 

Excellent mock I must say, but why Rashad McCants at 13? Can you elaborate a little more on that?

 

Hope Ukic stays in and the Raps can draft him at 16! crossing fingers!

 

Well, looks like I have some competition here.....lol. Absolutely excellent Mock guys. I think NBADraft.net and DraftCity need to visit this site a little more often. And the sad thing is, their sites are devoted STRICTLY to the draft. But, let me stand up now and put my hands together on the outstanding job, the time, effort, and overall quality. Looks like I need to come back from my trip and really step my game up! I'd be right there with you as of today, with maybe one exception. Orlando wants so bad to move Francis back to the point, if Antoine Wright really is still on the board, they have to take him. If not, putting that sickly long and athletic front court together of Warrick and Howard would frighten me! Anyway, once again guys, take a bow!

 

Great job guys, Excellent Mock. I'm sorry if i missed it but was Sun Ming Ming's name on there