This is the first of several threads intended to create a forum consensus big board. After the combine when we have measurements and know where we're picking, we'll do it again. So pick your #1, defend it vehemently, argue ferociously, and we'll do another one each couple days through April until we get through the top 14.
I don't know about vehemence and ferocity but I have Jabari at the top of my board. He's an amazing shooter who was forced into shots that Dame would have him taking open instead of double teamed. He's a great rebounder. He is really solid on defense and would complement Nurk by being able to cover the perimeter and having the speed to get back to help protect the rim. He runs the court really well and finishes around the hoop. Besides the knock on his shot selection and him not being an elite athlete but still a pretty solid one, I don't think there's a bad thing about his game. He's ready to contribute to wins right now and has a high upside too.
I'm sure Banchero could contribute day 1, but I can't overlook Smith's defense and athleticism. I'd have to take him, but I'd have no confidence that there wouldn't be several other players who might make me look stupid.
100% that this draft is filled with a ton of different experts grading out all of these guys differently. If we got the number one pick it would be paramount, if we are building around Dame, to have Paolo, Jabari and Chet in for workouts and see how they handle NBA level speed on defense. I think all of them have offensive games that are known quantities but I don't know how Paolo will look on D against NBA level players, I have assumptions about what Chet's limited speed would do but he's been able to make up for that with high defensive IQ and extreme length up to this point. So yeah, I like Jabari first right now but this draft is pretty wild.
I vote for Keegan Murray, who will provide the Siakam talent that we need at PF with coaching by Chauncey and staff. Keegan scores efficiently from swish3, the paint, and at the rim scoring, is strong and powerful, plays defense, and has the energy that the Chauncey coached Blazers opt for. He is more likely to be available for the Blazer lottery pick, and with some improved skills can be an NBA star to help build the Blazer Championship team.
Interesting choice at the #1 pick, but to each his own. I have a feeling you'll be voting for Murray in several threads before he becomes the consensus selection at a draft slot.
If we are #1, that means Detroit is behind us. If they are in the Top-3, I might consider swapping picks with them and adding another asset. Maybe we get Grant w/0 having to give up the 2nd Lottery pick? It is believed they really want Banchero. I believe I'd take Grant and say the #3 pick for the rights to Banchero. That leaves you with Smith or Chet + Grant.
I'll participate in these threads by voting, but that just so I can see how the voting is going. I don't know enough about these guys to have any firm opinion. I'm scared of Portland taking Holmgren though. I seriously doubt he'll be an Embiid or a Jokic, and even if he is that could be 5-6 years down the road. I'm about 90% convinced that the key to contending is 2-way-frontcourt wings, not unicorns like Porzingis (Chet).
Have you talked to D69 about this draft? What are his preferred picks? I personally have Eason in my top 4... I think he grades out with a OG Anunbody type as a likely outcome. His upside could be a Kawhi or Jimmy Butler type all-star.
We've chatted about it quite a bit and are setting up what we are going to do for the Lottery selection show and then the Draft. He has guys who he likes, but this year is concentrating more on who will be around for the Blazers picks vs the entire Draft since the Blazers have 4 picks. Initial thoughts are, he likes Jabari for Portland if they have the ability to take him. He thinks Duren has one of the higher ceilings anywhere. Thinks John Butler could be a steal. ...and in the 2nd round, would take a flyer on Nzosa or Badji late. It will be interesting for me to see how that changes as he digs deeper into players who will be around Portland's selections once the order is determined.
