Official 2013 NBA Draft Thread

When he was purely playing the hustling, energy guy is when he really stood out. Other than that, he was a dud :lol:
 
[h1]http://espn.go.com/blog/truehoop/post/_/id/60257/flurry-of-trade-talks-surrounding-draft[/h1][h1]Flurry of trade talks surrounding draft[/h1]
June, 24, 2013
Jun 24

11:47

PM ET

By Chad Ford and Marc Stein
ESPN.com

As we get closer to the Thursday night's draft, here are some rumblings we're hearing around the league.

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  • What are the Cleveland Cavaliers seeking in exchange for the No. 1 pick? Sources say they reached out to the Portland Trail Blazers in an attempt to land LaMarcus Aldridge for the Nos. 1 and 19 picks. The Blazers quickly rebuffed them.
  • The Sacramento Kings are looking to acquire a second first-round pick and are using guard Jimmer Fredette as bait. Sources say the Kings have reached out to a number of teams in the mid-to-late first round in an attempt to secure another pick. Both the Indiana Pacers and Utah Jazz are potential destinations for Jimmer. Kings coach Mike Malone is enamored with both Tim Hardaway Jr. and Tony Snell, but the Kings feel that they can get them much lower in the draft.
  • In addition to the Pacers' Jimmer discussions, sources say Indiana has made the No. 23 pick available in hopes that an interested party would be willing to take on the contract of Gerald Green for the right to acquire Indy's pick.
  • The Brooklyn Nets are trying to find a home for their 2011 first-round selection, MarShon Brooks. Sources say the Nets are trying to land a second first-rounder in return. One team to watch is the Minnesota Timberwolves. If the Wolves will give the Nets the No. 26 pick in return, they'll probably have a deal on draft night.
  • The Wolves continue to try to move higher up in the draft to get their hands on Victor Oladipo. They're offering Derrick Williams, the No. 9 and the No. 26 pick to move up, but so far haven't found a taker. New Wolves GM Flip Saunders is enamored with Oladipo.
  • The Houston Rockets are doing anything and everything they can to move Aaron Brooks or Carlos Delfino in conjunction with the draft before they're forced to just let them go in order to create as much cap space as possible for the long-planned pursuit in free agency of Dwight Howard.
  • For all the latest on the Mavs' plans with Shawn Marion, amid constant speculation about Dallas packaging Marion with the 13th pick in Thursday's draft in the name of creating more salary-cap space for its own pursuit of Howard, click this ESPNDallas.com post.
 
VICTOR PAGE said:
Shabazz does have enough talent to end up being the kind of player that ends up sliding to a good team and then make people regret missing on him. See Kawhi Leonard (granted he only fell out of the lottery by one spot).

Not saying that happens but you have to imagine if he ends up sliding to a playoff team mid-late 1st (ATL, BK, LAC, etc) he COULD end up a great value that low.
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If only Shabazz could shoot, defend and was as good of an athlete as Kawhi.

He's an undersized sf who doesn't have enough handle to play the two. Not a consistent burner, gets most of his rebounds off his own misses and has terrible body language as a player. He had like 30 assists the whole year as a college player, he's a very poor and shorter Melo. I think he'll be a better athlete in the NBA as he was out of shape for a while at UCLA but that's about it, he doesn't have much upside unless he can learn to defend (good wingspan) or he can switch to the 2
 
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Ford:
2013 NBA Mock Draft 6.0

With just two days to go before the 2013 NBA draft, it's time to take our first full look at both rounds.

Teams continue to narrow down draft lists, though with tons of trade talk and last-minute workouts taking place, there still are plenty of things up in the air.

I've been speaking with numerous NBA team sources about how the draft might play out on June 27.

1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Nerlens Noel

Analysis: Yes, for the sixth straight mock draft, I have Noel at No. 1 despite a consensus among NBA bloggers that Maryland's Alex Len is going to be the top pick. I wrote a long post on True Hoop Monday night on why I think the Cavs are leaning toward Noel.

Here's the short version: While I think Len and Anthony Bennett also are in play for the top pick, Noel appears to be a better fit with the criteria the Cavs are using this year and have used in the past to select in the lottery. The team itself has remained tight-lipped -- in part because a number of different trade scenarios they are exploring could alter the composition of their team. -- but I think it's going to be Noel.

2. Orlando Magic - Victor Oladipo

Analysis: If the Cavs pass on Noel, the Magic are leaning strongly toward selecting him with the No. 2 pick in the draft. If Noel is off the board? Things get a little tougher. The Magic have explored a number of trade options if Noel isn't there at No. 2. If they can't work out a trade, it appears they continue to lean toward taking Oladipo over McLemore. While McLemore is a stronger offensive player, Oladipo's defense and his crazy motor hold a strong appeal for the Magic. Cody Zeller is a dark horse here at No. 2.

3. Washington Wizards - Otto Porter

Analysis: With so much up in the air in this draft, Porter to the Wizards at No. 3 remains a constant. He's appeared here in every mock and I think it's unlikely we move him. While the Wizards have a lot of interest in Anthony Bennett, sources say they are now leaning toward taking Porter at 3. He fits a need, fits their culture and is, like Oladipo, viewed as a sure thing by many NBA GMs and scouts.

4. Charlotte Bobcats - Alex Len

Analysis: There is essentially zero information coming out of Charlotte right now. That's how the Bobcats like it. Even Michael Kidd-Gilchrist didn't know he was going to the Bobcats until they called his name on draft night. We appear to be in a similar situation here. Len, Bennett and McLemore are the three most obvious fits. While there seems to be some movement toward Len, this one is more of a guess. Indiana's Cody Zeller also has fans in Charlotte, too.

5. Phoenix Suns - Ben McLemore

Analysis: I'm struggling with where to place McLemore. He's struggled in workouts in Cleveland, Orlando and Phoenix. Everyone loves the talent, but teams are clearly wary of him and the workouts have given pause. I know the Suns would prefer Oladipo, and sources say there's strong support in the front office for Syracuse's Michael Carter-Williams and Indiana's Zeller, as well. We're keeping McLemore here at No. 5, but I wouldn't be shocked if he ends up going a few spots lower in Mock 7.0 on Thursday.

6. New Orleans Pelicans -Trey Burke

Analysis: Here's where things really get tricky. If Porter or Len still are here at No. 6, I believe the Pelicans will draft either one of them. If both players are off the board, the team has to move onto Plan B. While Bennett might be tempting, the Pelicans do need depth at the point guard position and will struggle to let Burke slide. Michael Carter-Williams also could be in the mix here.

7. Sacramento Kings - C.J. McCollum

Analysis: The Kings continue to be all over the place. Every day a new prospect; this reflects a young front office, an inexperienced head coach and owner and very little time to prep for the draft. McCollum, Bennett, Shabazz Muhammad, Steven Adams are all possibilities here. Ditto for Carter-Williams.

However, after his second workout there, McCollum's name is beginning to surface as a potential selection. The Kings also are exploring trades right now. Two sources told ESPN.com that they're using Jimmer Fredette as trade bait to pick up another first-round pick in the mid- to late first round so they can grab either Tim Hardaway Jr. or Tony Snell. The Jazz, in particular, have been looking to move up and like McCollum, so that's one plausible scenario.

8. Detroit Pistons - Anthony Bennett

Analysis: If Bennett slides to No. 8, Pistons GM Joe Dumars will be grinning ear to ear. For the last three years one of the top-ranked players in the draft has slid to the Pistons. In 2010 it was Greg Monroe. In 2011 it was Brandon Knight. In 2012 it was Andre Drummond. If Bennett is there, the Pistons would grab him. He can play both the three and the four, can both stretch the floor and play in the post. The Pistons have other needs, including point guard, but Bennett is too much of a talent to pass up. Burke and Carter-Williams are the other two possibilities in Detroit.

9. Minnesota Timberwolves - Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Analysis: There seem to be three constants in our mock drafts: Noel at No. 1, Porter at No. 3 and Caldwell-Pope at No. 9. He's been up here for the last three mocks and makes the cut here, as well. While the T-Wolves have interest in other players (Zeller has his fans in Minnesota), Caldwell-Pope has been a favorite of Flip Saunders. The only way this pick probably doesn't happen? If Minnesota finds a way to package the No. 9, No. 26 and maybe Derrick Williams to move up, then they'll grab Victor Oladipo.

10. Portland Trailblazers - Michael Carter-Williams

Analysis: The Blazers drafted a point guard last year, but they wouldn't hesitate to do it again if Carter-Williams slides. They'd prefer McCollum or Caldwell-Pope, but Carter-Williams would do. He has great size for his position, which should allow the Blazers to play both him and Lillard on the floor together. Zeller and Steven Adams are also possibilities here.

11. Philadelphia 76ers - Cody Zeller

Analysis: Zeller is the fourth constant on this mock. He's appeared at this spot on all six versions. Why? The 76ers need size and athleticsm in their front court and Zeller provides both. I'm told Sergey Karasev, Kelly Olynyk and Mason Plumlee are options here but probably only if Zeller is off the board.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Toronto Raptors) - Steven Adams

Analysis: Adams has also sat at this spot since the NBA Draft Combine. The Thunder are another team that are notoriously tight lipped, but what little information I can get have Adams, Karasev and Olynyk on their board here. Adams has the most upside so he's at 12, though I wouldn't be shocked if either Karasev or Olynyk went here.

13. Dallas Mavericks -Sergey Karasev

Analysis: The Mavericks continue to lean heavily toward trading the pick (if they haven't already). According to various reports, one scenario floating around have them swapping picks with the Cavs. If that happens, it's almost certainly to be for Karasev. There are several other teams who are after Karasev including the Bucks, Hawks and Nets, and they could be great trade partners. If the Mavericks keep the pick, Carter-Williams and Dennis Schroeder also would be possibilities here.

14. Utah Jazz - Lucas Noguiera

Analysis: Not much has changed here since the last mock. If McCollum, Burke or Carter-Williams (probably in that order) are on the board, the Jazz go point guard. If they're gone? The team isn't in love with any of the point guards left on the board. They also need bigs (both Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap are free agents this summer) and it looks like they're open to using the draft to help address that need as well. Nogueira isn't the only guy they'll look at here. Olynyk and Plumlee also have a shot. But I think Nogueria is the most intriguing of the group.

15. Milwaukee Bucks - Shane Larkin

Analysis: If the draft plays out this way, the Bucks are looking at three names -- Larkin, Schroeder or Glen Rice Jr., who's coming in for a second workout on Tuesday. It's hard to say which way the Bucks are leaning, but it looks like Larkin has the slight edge.

16. Boston Celtics - Dennis Schroeder

Analysis: The Celtics are in the process of blowing up the team which makes it even harder to project what they are doing. Four names to keep an eye on here: Adams, Schroeder, Larkin or Olynyk. If the Celtics can convince Schroeder to stay overseas one more year (thus getting him off their cap and letting him develop) he's probably the guy.

17. Atlanta Hawks - Giannis Antetokounmpo

Analysis: I continue to hear Antetokounmpo's name here. The Hawks can stash him overseas, let him develop and in a few years, he could either be the steal of the draft. Or we'll all forget they drafted him. Either scenario probably works for Atlanta.

18. Atlanta Hawks (via Houston Rockets) - Shabazz Muhammad

Analysis: There's a point where a player's reward outweighs the risk. I'm not sure where Muhammad's floor is, but it has to be pretty close. Yes, there are flaws in his game, but at some point you can't ignore his scoring abilities. Olynyk, San Diego State's Jamaal Franklin and Michigan's Tim Hardaway Jr. also are possibilities.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Lakers) - Reggie Bullock

Analysis: If the Cavs grab Noel at No. 1, look for them to add a small forward or shooter with the second first-round pick. They would love to get their hands on Karasev if they could; they are trying to move up higher in the draft to grab him. Moving to No. 13 seems to be the consensus of where they need to get to, and it looks like they are willing to eat Shawn Marion's salary for a year to get there in a trade with Dallas. If they can't get to No. 13, Bullock is another shooter they really are high on. Bullock shot 44 percent from 3-point range this season and has the size to play both wing positions.

20. Chicago Bulls - Mason Plumlee

Analysis: Every mock draft we alternate between a big and wing for the Bulls. The Bulls need both. Plumlee is an interesting case. Lots of teams like him, few love him. But I think it would be hard for the Bulls to pass on Plumlee's value at No. 20. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Jamaal Franklin are other possibilities.

21. Utah Jazz (via Golden State Warriors) - Isaiah Canaan

Analysis: If the Jazz pass on a point guard at No. 14, they have to be content with what's left at No. 21. In this mock draft, both Schroeder and Larkin are off the board already. But that's OK. I think they like Canaan just as much as those other guards. While he's not quite McCollum, but Canaan's another dynamic scorer who can shoot and get to the basket. Nogueria and Rudy Gobert are also potential picks here if the Jazz go with a point guard at No. 14.

22. Brooklyn Nets - Kelly Olynyk/B]

Analysis: Olynyk might have one of the largest ranges of anyone in the draft. He'll get looks as high as No. 11 to the Sixers and No. 12 to the Thunder, but he also could work his way down here. Gorgui Dieng and Tony Snell are other options for the Nets at 22.

23. Indiana Pacers - Jamaal Franklin/B]

Analysis: The Pacers are looking at point guards and bigs, but something tells me if Franklin is on the board at No. 23, they'll have a hard time saying no. He's not the shooter they covet, but he's versatile, tough and is a bit like a smaller Kawhi Leonard. I wouldn't be surprised if the Pacers move this pick. They also have some interest in the Kings' offer of Jimmer Fredette for a first-round pick.

24. New York Knicks - Tony Mitchell

Analysis: Mitchell's been at this spot for three mocks and I continue to hear the Knicks like him. He has all the physical tools to succeed in the NBA. Strengh, length, elite athletic ability. And the Knicks really need help on the front line.The Knicks also like Franklin, and South Dakota State's Nate Wolters is a sleeper here.

25. Los Angeles Clippers - Tim Hardaway Jr.

Analysis: The Clippers are going for it and are going to need all the help they can get. That might force them to take a veteran guard who can give them shooting and minutes. Hardaway is a coach's favorite, and I could see the Clippers thinking he'd make a great fit at No. 25.

26. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies) - Gorgui Dieng

Analysis: Dieng has slid in the draft thanks to concerns about his knees, but a number of teams in the 20s still are willing to take the risk. With the T-Wolves in serious talks to swap this pick for the Nets' MarShon Brooks, I could see the Nets grabbing another big to fill out their front line.

27. Denver Nuggets - Allen Crabbe

Analysis: The Nuggets are in danger of losing Iguodala this summer after he opted to become a free agent. What they really need is a shooter. Crabbe seems like a great fit for this team. Ricky Ledo is another possibility here as is Tony Snell.

28. San Antonio Spurs - Rudy Gobert

Analysis: The Spurs need size and have never shied away from taking international players. What Gobert lacks in athletic ability he makes up with extreme length for his position. The Spurs also can stash him overseas if they need the cash.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder - Ricky Ledo

Analysis: This might be a bit of a reach. But the Thunder have been looking for an elite shooting guard, and Ledo is as talented as several players in the lottery. He has lots of off-the-court issues, but the Thunder might try to rehabilitate him in their excellent D-League franchise.

30. Phoenix Suns (via Miami Heat) - Tony Snell

Analysis: The Suns can go a lot of different directions here, but adding one shooter in McLemore might not be enough. Snell has great length for his position and could give the Suns two athletic shooters on the wing.
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2013 NBA Mock Draft: 2nd round

31. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Lakers) - Mike Muscala

Analysis: Muscala will have to make the transition from college center to NBA stretch 4, but he's one of the most skilled big men in the draft and a steal at 31.

32. Oklahoma City Thunder - Alex Abrines

Analysis: With two picks in the first round, I doubt the Thunder are adding a third player capable of making the roster in the second round. Abrines has a lot of talent and is getting to play against elite competition in Spain. The Thunder can afford to be patient.

33. Cleveland Cavaliers - Pierre Jackson

Analysis: Jackson is one of the more intriguing guards left in the draft. A ton of talent, he's just undersized. He can shoot it, get to the basket and find his teammates. Might be an ideal backup for Kyrie Irving.

34. Houston Rockets - Glen Rice Jr.

Analysis: It would be poetic justice if Rice slips out of the first and lands here. He played for the Rockets' D-League team, the Vipers. They love him. He could go as high as 15 to Milwaukee, but I think this is his floor.

35. Philadelphis 76ers - Jeff Withey

Analysis: The Sixers want size. They got the stretch 4 in Zeller in the first round and here they get an elite shot-blocker in the second. Withey is a steal at 35.

36. Sacramento Kings - C.J. Leslie

Analysis: Leslie is an intriguing guy. He had the fastest agility scores of anyone in the draft combine. He's an elite athlete, just a tweener. If he ever locks down on defense, he'll be really good.

37. Detroit Pistons - Archie Goodwin

Analysis: Goodwin was billed as a poor man's Russell Westbrook coming into Kentucky. He struggled mightily, but the raw talent is there. He's got elite speed and athletic abilities. If he ever figures out a jumper, he's got a lot of upside.

38. Washington Wizards - Erick Green

Analysis: Goodwin was billed as a poor man's Russell Westbrook coming into Kentucky. He struggled mightily, but the raw talent is there. He's got elite speed and athletic abilities. If he ever figures out a jumper, he's got a lot of upside.

39. Portland Trailblazers - Grant Jerrett

Analysis: Jerrett left school too early, but the truth is he's a very intriguing prospect as a stretch 4. A good get for the Blazers at No. 39.

40. Portland Trailblazers - Nemanja Nedovic

Analysis: GM Neil Olshey may not love international players, but he's not adding more than two rookies to his roster. Nedovic is a great athlete and could be a nice addition down the road.

41. Memphis Grizzlies - Andre Roberson

Analysis: How do you predict a John Hollinger pick? I just went over to Kevin Pelton's draft rater and looked to see who was highest on his board. Roberson actually was ranked at No. 3 -- in the whole draft! The Grizzlies can't pass on that at 41.

42. Philadelphia 76ers - Jackie Carmichael

Analysis: Carmichael is one of the toughest forwards in the draft. He's a great athlete and very experienced; the Sixers would help build out their front line with this draft.

43. Milwaukee Bucks - Lorenzo Brown

Analysis: In our first-round mock we have the Bucks taking the smallest point guard in the draft. We offset it here by having them take one of the biggest. Brown isn't a great shooter, but he's got great size and a feel for the game.

44. Dallas Mavericks - Marko Todorovic

Analysis: The Mavs have always liked international players. Todorovic is big and can play inside and outside. A great draft-and-stash prospect.

45. Portland Trailblazers - Livio Jean-Charles

Analysis: Again, the Blazers don't have any more spots and are best served by drafting guys and leaving them overseas. Jean-Charles impressed at the Nike Hoop Summit, but he needs more time to develop.

46. Utah Jazz - Nate Wolters

Analysis: The Jazz would be thrilled if Wolters was still on the board here. He was under consideration at No. 21 and brings size and floor vision to the table.

47. Atlanta Hawks - Bojan Dubljevic

Analysis: The Hawks have multiple first-round picks. They're probably not going to mess with second-rounders. The Serbian big man can really shoot the lights out.

48. Los Angeles Lakers - Ray McCallum

Analysis: The Lakers could use help anywhere, but McCallum brings a lot to the table as a heady point guard who can run a team and get to the rim.

49. Chicago Bulls - Alexandre Paranhos

Analysis: Paranhos was discovered by Leandro Barbosa. (There's a great story on TrueHoop about him.) The Bulls are one of the few teams that have worked him out. Lots of intrigue surrounding a 6-foot-8 NBA athlete who can shoot the rock.

50. Chicago Bulls - Raul Neto

Analysis: The Brazilian point guard impressed at the Nike Hoop Summit. He has a bright future down the road.

51. Orlando Magic - Phil Pressey

Analysis: The Magic didn't get their point guard at the top of the draft, but Pressey might be a nice consolation prize here. He sees the floor as well as any guard in the draft. He's great as long as he doesn't think he's a scorer.

52. Minnesota Timberwolves - Augusto Lima

Analysis: With multiple first-round picks, the Wolves will likely go international as well. Lima is long and runs the floor well. He's very active, but needs to polish his offensive game.

53. Indiana Pacers - Myck Kabongo

Analysis: There was a time when Kabongo was mentioned as a potential lottery pick. He's a steal here for the Pacers and could, with time, earn a spot in the rotation.

54. Washington Wizards - Erik Murphy

Analysis: Stretch 4s are always in demand and Murphy can really stroke the basketball from deep.

55. Memphis Grizzlies - Angelo Sharpless

Analysis: This super-athletic 2-guard who played at Elizabeth City is under the radar, but he's had a series of impressive workouts for teams.

56. Detroit Pistons - Solomon Hill

Analysis: The Pistons could use a small forward and Hill is a player who doesn't excel in any one area, but is a leader on the floor. A perfect fit with a team like the Pistons.

57. Phoenix Suns - Richard Howell

Analysis: The Suns are soft. Howell is not. End of story.

58. San Antonio Spurs - Oleksandr Lypovyy

Analysis: The Spurs always find these gems late. Lypovyy was the star at the Eurocamp in 2012, but regressed a bit last year. He's worth taking a shot on at 58.

59. Minnesota Timberwolves - Vitalis Chikoko

Analysis: Chikoko is a long, athletic big man from Zimbabwe who has been playing in Germany. He's not ready for the NBA, but given his size, length and burgeoning skill level, he could be a nice draft-and-stash type player.

60. Memphis Grizzlies - D.J. Stephens

Analysis: I'm hoping Hollinger will do me a favor here. The best athlete in the draft. Crazy motor. Just undersized and underskilled. I love him. Played for Memphis. If nothing else, he'd put on a hell of a halftime show. Please John?
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I called Thomas Robinson from the jump. Hell you can see me in the Wizards/2012 Draft threads arguing with dudes who were saying the Wizards should have drafted him. He was a late bloomer in HS. He had just really started to learn how to become a basketball player at Kansas. Most of his output was just a product of flat out hustle, hardwork, and elite athleticism. He's not really THAT much of a ball player fundamentally. Add that with him falling into the old trap of thinking he can be a perimeter guy...im not all surprised to see he'll be with his 3rd team in only 2 years now. 

I don't think he'll be a career bum...but I don't think he'll ever be someone's first, second, or hell even third option in his prime. I do see him being a hard working rotation player / probable starter if he gets back to being a bully and do the dirty work.
 
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Oladipo hype at premium levels now.

Crazy to think he could be top 3 and Zeller won't be considering their positions at the beginning of last college season.
 



Utah Jazz radio voice David Locke breaksdown Isaiah Canaan in this 2013 NBA Draft Breakdown
 
worldbeefreeg said:
JPZx said:
I'd be fine with 1.) Caldwell-Pope OR 2.) Bazz at #9.

#9 is too low for Muhammad by a couple spots, and Caldwell-Pope has slowly risen to the Top 10 two days before the draft, lets hope he doesn't keep rising.
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You do realize Shabazz could slip like a lot very easily...into the 20's?
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awwsome said:
As he should because nothing he's done or shown makes him lottery pick unless we're still rating him on his HS potential
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He's a lottery pick, Hawks are trying to trade into the Top 10 to get him .

Yes, he's shown maturity issues and a lack of team concept, but that can be fixed in the right situation. If he can improve his mid range game early in his career, A LOT of teams will regret passing on him.
 
CaptainSneakerhead23 said:
worldbeefreeg said:
JPZx said:
I'd be fine with 1.) Caldwell-Pope OR 2.) Bazz at #9.

#9 is too low for Muhammad by a couple spots, and Caldwell-Pope has slowly risen to the Top 10 two days before the draft, lets hope he doesn't keep rising.
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You do realize Shabazz could slip like a lot very easily...into the 20's?
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awwsome said:
As he should because nothing he's done or shown makes him lottery pick unless we're still rating him on his HS potential
Click to expand...

He's a lottery pick, Hawks are trying to trade into the Top 10 to get him .

Yes, he's shown maturity issues and a lack of team concept, but that can be fixed in the right situation. If he can improve his mid range game early in his career, A LOT of teams will regret passing on him.
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As a UCLA fan I watched every single college game. People blame the UCLA system for his struggles, but Howland's system is very similar to the NBA. Especially this year as he let the team run ALOT. People are quick to say that the UCLA system restricts its players potential, but that's not necessarily true. Jrue and Westbrook didn't reach their potential their b/c they were works in progress AND b/c they had to play out of position. Bazz didn't have these issues (especially age :lol: ). The other ucla nba players beasted in college.

He had 27 assists for an entire season. Many people will say thats b/c he is selfish. But it is also b/c he has a very low basketball IQ. He doesn't understand the playbook, sets, spacing, etc. This is very troubling for a guy who played in an NBA system at UCLA.

The guy is supposedly a very hard worker. Yet, he is always out of shape. How does this happen? Can't shoot off the dribble at all, can't defend, and cannot dribble at all. Literally one of the worst handles i've seen from a wing player since Corey Brewer. Sure he scored 18 pts a game, but probably 10 of them were on downpicks with a turnaround lefty hook. At 6'5 playing small forward in the nba that move isn't going to fly. BUST
 
....and here is Sporting News official mock posted in the last 24 hours:


NBA Mock Draft 2013
Sporting News

1. Cleveland. Alex Len, C, Maryland. Unless the Cavaliers have sent a massive smokescreen over the NBA, they’re probably not going to pick Nerlens Noel here. If that’s the case, the Cavs are looking at Len, Otto Porter or Ben McLemore, with Len the favorite.

2. Orlando. Victor Oladipo, SG, Indiana. Still convinced that Magic won’t be making this pick, and that we’ll see a trade at No. 2. Oladipo is very much in play either way, and might be the most NBA-ready prospect in the draft.

3. Washington. Otto Porter, SF, Georgetown. Could the Wizards really pass on Noel? The word is that they’ve locked in on Porter if he is there, and he makes sense as a young small forward to put with Bradley Beal and John Wall.

4. Charlotte. Nerlens Noel, PF/C, Kentucky. If Noel does fall from the top spot, he would not get past the Bobcats, who need some serious frontcourt help. If Noel is gone here, Anthony Bennett is the likely pick.

5. Phoenix. Ben McLemore, SG, Kansas. McLemore is another potential No. 1 pick who could have trouble finding a home. He could go No. 2, but momentum is behind Oladipo. The Suns would be quite pleased to grab McLemore here.

6. New Orleans. Trey Burke, PG, Michigan. The Pelicans are insisting they’re not giving up on Austin Rivers, and indeed, that may be so. But they certainly see him as more of a combo guard off the bench than as a starter at the point. That could be Burke.

7. Sacramento. Steven Adams, C, Pittsburgh. It could be a stretch for the Kings to go this high for Adams, but they want a center to allow DeMarcus Cousins to play power forward, and some consider Adams the best option at this point. The Kings could trade down, but trading down is easier said than done.

8. Detroit. Anthony Bennett, SF/PF, UNLV. In what is becoming an annual tradition, the Pistons are primed to swipe a top-tier talent with a second-tier pick. Bennett is a tweener, but the Pistons will have opportunities for him to play both at small forward and power forward.

9. Minnesota. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG, Georgia. This is a tough one. The Timberwolves need a shooting guard, and they love Victor Oladipo. If they don’t trade up for him, Caldwell-Pope could be their man. But they like Sergey Karasev, too.

10. Portland. Sergey Karasev, SG, Russia. Karasev is emblematic of this draft. He could go in the Top 10. He could go in the high 20s. One thing for sure, though, is that he can shoot, and the Blazers need as much help spreading the floor as they can get. But would they pass on C.J. McCollum here for a pure shooting guard?

11. Philadelphia. Cody Zeller, C/PF, Indiana. The Sixers are likely to snap up the best available big man, whether that is Adams, Zeller or Brazilian Lucas Nogueira. Zeller’s all-around game and athleticism will make him a good fit with the athletic young Sixers.

12. Oklahoma City (from Houston via Toronto). C.J. McCollum, PG/SG, Lehigh. The Thunder have holes to fill in terms of frontcourt depth, but they usually take the best-available approach. McCollum, Michael Carter-Williams and Shabazz Muhammad would all be on that list.

13. Dallas. Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil. Nogueira is a high-motor big man who can rebound and defend. The obvious comparison (based on hair) is to countryman Anderson Varejao. It’s also an accurate comparison.

14. Utah. Michael Carter-Williams, PG, Syracuse. This a dream scenario for the Jazz, who are eager for a point guard. If Carter-Williams, a playmaker and outstanding defender at 6-6, could fall to them, they’d have a good complement to Enes Kanter and Derrick Favors inside.

15. Milwaukee. Shabazz Muhammad, G/F, UCLA. Muhammad is all over the place, potentially going as high as No. 7 to Sacramento or as low as 16 to Boston. Potentially losing Brandon Jennings, Monta Ellis and J.J. Redick, a scorer like Muhammad works for the Bucks.

16. Boston. Dennis Schroeder, PG, Germany. Schroeder compares himself to Rajon Rondo, in that he is a lanky playmaker who can defend. The Celtics are rumored to have promised him their pick if he was on the board. So now they’re fulfilling that promise.

17. Atlanta. Rudy Gobert, C, France. Gobert is big, long and raw as a blue steak. But he has plenty of potential, and the Hawks—if they don’t package these picks to move up—have room to take a chance on him.

18. Atlanta (from Brooklyn via Houston). Jamaal Franklin, SG, San Diego State. The Hawks have had Franklin in twice, and though he has a badly sprained ankle, he’s made enough of an impression to warrant a pick on him. He is a very athletic wing who can score in bunches.

19. Cleveland (from LA Lakers). Giannis Adetokunbo, SF, Greece. The Cavs could move this pick, but if they don’t, look for them to go Euro with a player they can stash overseas. Adetokunbo is a gamble—he needs a few years before he is close to ready—but he is a 6-8 wing with good handles.

20. Chicago. Gorgui Dieng, C, Louisville. The Bulls would like to get hold of Franklin at this spot, but they could also go big. Dieng made a strong impression during the NCAA tournament, and has done well in workouts.

21. Utah (from Golden State). Kelly Olynyk, C, Gonzaga. Olynyk could yet be a lottery pick, but concerns about his strength and defense are weighing him down. The Jazz will need frontcourt depth if both Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap leave, so Olynyk makes sense.

22. Brooklyn. Mason Plumlee, PF, Duke. The Nets won’t necessarily draft based on need, but they badly need depth in the frontcourt. Plumlee is an athletic, talented power forward who could contribute right away.

23. Indiana. Shane Larkin, PG, Miami. This is a steep drop for Larkin, who could easily be a late lottery pick. But if he isn’t this would be an ideal situation for him. The Pacers badly need a bench, and Larkin would get playing time on a good team.

24. New York. Glen Rice Jr., SG, D-League. The Knicks need production out of this pick, and no one has shown he can produce at a pro level quite like Rice. Yes, he was booted from Georgia Tech last year, but the way he played in the D-League this year makes him a good gamble.

25. LA Clippers. Tim Hardaway Jr., SG, Michigan. Hardaway is a solid scorer, deft at scoring off screens and cuts. He will be considered as high as No. 16 to Boston. The Clippers are also considering a slew of point guards with their picks.

26. Minnesota (from Memphis). Mike Muscala, C, Bucknell. The Timberwolves have spoken highly of Minnesota’s native son, but whether they will follow through and grab him at this spot remains to be seen. We’re going to say yes.

27. Denver. Reggie Bullock, SF, North Carolina. The Nuggets are considering point guards here, too, but Bullock had a good workout with the team and is the kind of athletic young wing that Denver seems to stockpile.

28. San Antonio. Brandon Paul, SG, Illinois. Paul’s stock got a boost from the play of Spurs guard Danny Green in the NBA Finals, because Green is one guy to whom Paul has been compared. So perhaps Green’s current team takes a chance on him.

29. Oklahoma City. Allen Crabbe, SG, California. Crabbe could be a steal. He is a knockdown shooter who could improve at the next level, when he isn’t the focus of opposing defenses. He averaged 18.4 points and was Pac 10 Player of the Year last season.

30. Phoenix (from Miami via Lakers). Tony Snell, G/F, New Mexico. Snell is a solid wing who can play either the 2 or the 3. The Suns need to go with the best talent they can get with this pick, regardless of position, and in this case, it’d be Snell.
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worldbeefreeg said:
You do realize Shabazz could slip like a lot very easily...into the 20's?
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awwsome said:
As he should because nothing he's done or shown makes him lottery pick unless we're still rating him on his HS potential
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The guy went from one of the most beloved, surefire recruits to now everybody jumping on the "lets shun him" bandwagon and "it's not cool to like Shabazz anymore" train. I get it, he has flaws, but so do all of these guys being selected around #9. :lol: Hell, even the Top 3 is being shuffled every day, clearly showing there's not one guy in this draft that can be touted from Day 1 as someone you can depend upon.

Based on what I saw from his year at UCLA, his fall from grace in such a short period is being exaggerated and there's a middle ground between what we thought he was a year ago and where the majority of people consider him today.

Steven Adams, a highly rated recruit is rumored to possibly go lottery two days before the draft. For someone that has followed somewhat of a similar stock arch as Shabazz the past 2 years, what has he done to justify that he should go first of the two players (based on your comment of how Bazz could fall into the 20s)? Don't give me the, "Ya can't teach size" argument. :lol: :smh:
 
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CJ003 said:
CaptainSneakerhead23 said:
worldbeefreeg said:
JPZx said:
I'd be fine with 1.) Caldwell-Pope OR 2.) Bazz at #9.

#9 is too low for Muhammad by a couple spots, and Caldwell-Pope has slowly risen to the Top 10 two days before the draft, lets hope he doesn't keep rising.
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You do realize Shabazz could slip like a lot very easily...into the 20's?
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awwsome said:
As he should because nothing he's done or shown makes him lottery pick unless we're still rating him on his HS potential
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He's a lottery pick, Hawks are trying to trade into the Top 10 to get him .

Yes, he's shown maturity issues and a lack of team concept, but that can be fixed in the right situation. If he can improve his mid range game early in his career, A LOT of teams will regret passing on him.
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As a UCLA fan I watched every single college game. People blame the UCLA system for his struggles, but Howland's system is very similar to the NBA. Especially this year as he let the team run ALOT. People are quick to say that the UCLA system restricts its players potential, but that's not necessarily true. Jrue and Westbrook didn't reach their potential their b/c they were works in progress AND b/c they had to play out of position. Bazz didn't have these issues (especially age :lol: ). The other ucla nba players beasted in college.

He had 27 assists for an entire season. Many people will say thats b/c he is selfish. But it is also b/c he has a very low basketball IQ. He doesn't understand the playbook, sets, spacing, etc. This is very troubling for a guy who played in an NBA system at UCLA.

The guy is supposedly a very hard worker. Yet, he is always out of shape. How does this happen? Can't shoot off the dribble at all, can't defend, and cannot dribble at all. Literally one of the worst handles i've seen from a wing player since Corey Brewer. Sure he scored 18 pts a game, but probably 10 of them were on downpicks with a turnaround lefty hook. At 6'5 playing small forward in the nba that move isn't going to fly. BUST
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Which why I said he needs to work on his game so he can play the 2 rather than 3.

Howland's NBA system has been overrated for the past 3 seasons. Add that to the turmoil surrounding the basketball program and you have receipe for disaster. He didn't even know how to use Kyle Anderson who's a better PG than potential lottery pick "MCW" :smh:

And you mention Bazz always being out of shape, but what about your other players Joshua Smith (transferred) and Tony Parker :lol:
 
Count me on the cold side for Bazz.

I'm not ready to give up on T-Rob yet. His game is raw though, even at Kansas.
 
I like T-Rob as well, I can't judge him till he gets consistent minutes in the league. I thought his rebounding and physicality would translate immediately because he definitely isn't the most skilled 4.
 
He is not big enough or physical enough to thrive in rebounding or physicality.

I've said this before, but as big as Throb is, he tries to be way to finesse to bang around or rebound well.
 
"You can't teach size"

That is the whole argument....Unless you have LeBron James on your team, that small ball **** don't work come playoff time. Size is what rules the NBA and will forever and that is why Adams is thought of highly.
 
Talented big men are at a premium, but I wouldn't overpay or overdraft.

Adams is that case. Very raw. The potential label is dangerous. Feast or famine.
 
It makes me so mad to see the Mavs always projected to pick international players. I know Donnie Nelson loves them and they're always banking on the next Dirk...but c'mon
 
Alright, just to throw something out there...

Players I "love":

Nerlens Noel (I would take him first)
Victor Oladipo (anywhere from two and on)
Cody Zeller (anywhere from five and on)
Kelly Olynyk (anywhere from six and on)
Lucas Nogueira (anywhere from seven and on)
Dennis Schroeder (anywhere from eight and on)
Tim Hardaway, Jr. (anywhere from the late-teens and on)
Tony Mitchell (anywhere from the late-teens and on)
Archie Goodwin (anywhere from the mid 20s and on)

I want to say that I love Rudy Gobert anywhere from, like, late-lottery and on, but I'm not sure yet.

Players I "hate":

Anthony Bennett (probably outside of the top 10 for me)
Ben McLemore (outside the top 10)
Michael Carter-Williams (outside of the lottery)
Shabazz Muhammad (outside of the top 20)
 
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