Delete/Lock...Draft talk over in JPZ's thread....

[i nasmatic i]

Originally Posted by airmaxpenny1

By yours guys talk there is about 8 franchise players in the whole league then. And Jermaine was a franchise player, that Indiana team was ready to make a push for the chip if it wasn't for the Brawl

LeBron, Kobe, Wade, Howard, Paul, Durant, Rose and Duncan.

Everybody else in the league either was a franchise player or never was/will be one.

 

[airmaxpenny1]

Originally Posted by 651akathePaul

airmaxpenny - Don't confuse an actual franchise player with a failure at franchise player. Hindsight being what it is, O'neal, looking back, was not a franchise player. That team was built to help Miller btw.

And again, Out of the players he mentioned I said MAYBE O'neal, but I wouldn't give him the benefit of the doubt in this one.

I feel you but since the league has over expanded, the talent has became diluted and a lot of guys who aren't franchise player have been force to becomeone. Guys like Bosh, who really aren't franchise players have become forced into the role despite not really being ideally suited for it.

 

[nicedudewithnicedreams]

Originally Posted by I NaSmatic I

Originally Posted by airmaxpenny1

By yours guys talk there is about 8 franchise players in the whole league then. And Jermaine was a franchise player, that Indiana team was ready to make a push for the chip if it wasn't for the Brawl

LeBron, Kobe, Wade, Howard, Paul, Durant, Rose and Duncan.

Everybody else in the league either was a franchise player or never was/will be one.

No Yao Ming?

 

[nicedudewithnicedreams]

Ayer al llegar a L.A. a las 19:00, charla con D.Fegan sobre el draft, cena y a dormir. Ahora a Sacramento a conocer al coach e instalaciones

via Rubio's twitter...

"Ricky Rubio is currently in Sacramento for his official pre-Draft visit with the Kings. Rubio will undergo a physical conducted by the Kings medicalstaff today and then go to dinner this evening with Geoff Petrie and other members of the Kings Basketball Operations Department. Check back to Kings.com laterfor more details on Rubio's visit to the Capitol City."

"Also, Davidson high-scoring point guard Stephen Curry told reporters in Washington D.C. today that he is heading to Sacramento this weekend for aworkout. The Washington Post's Michael Lee relayed word on that front. - Sam Amick"

 

[i nasmatic i]

Originally Posted by nicedudewithnicedreams

Originally Posted by I NaSmatic I

Originally Posted by airmaxpenny1

By yours guys talk there is about 8 franchise players in the whole league then. And Jermaine was a franchise player, that Indiana team was ready to make a push for the chip if it wasn't for the Brawl

LeBron, Kobe, Wade, Howard, Paul, Durant, Rose and Duncan.

Everybody else in the league either was a franchise player or never was/will be one.

No Yao Ming?

If he stayed healthy (I know this isn't his fault but it is what it is) and led his teams deep into the playoffs, then yes.

But he hasn't.

 

[osh kosh bosh]

I gotta say man...I hate this ++$#.

Ok somebody explain to me, what exactly is a franchise player?

 

[kiddin like jason]

By yours guys talk there is about 8 franchise players in the whole league then.
Not every franchise has a franchise player.

LeBron, Kobe, Wade, Howard, Paul, Durant, Rose and Duncan.
I would put Nowitzki and Anthony on that list, and that's really it. Rose is iffy for me right now. Ithink it takes a few seasons to completely establish the title.

 

[franchise3]

Bottom line, to be a title contender, you need a legit big man. Forget the franchise title.

Osh is right in the sense, the formula has been the same for awhile now. Get a solid big and surround him with role players, and preferably a solid wing.

To go back to the point, sure, you could trade Al Jefferson, but then what? Nothing's really changed. They're still not winning with ______ + KevinLove

 

[i nasmatic i]

Agreed on Dirk. Can't believe I forgot about him.

Not sure about Melo, but I can't blame anyone that believes he is a franchise player/superstar. He made me a believer this past playoff run.

 

[osh kosh bosh]

Seriously I am baffled right now, you all seem to have such vague and varied definitions.
What on earth is a franchise player, how do you become one, what does it entail.

 

[osh kosh bosh]

Originally Posted by I NaSmatic I

Agreed on Dirk. Can't believe I forgot about him.

Not sure about Melo, but I can't blame anyone that believes he is a franchise player/superstar. He made me a believer this past playoff run.

Why, whats different about him, isn't he the same dude with better teammates? Melo hasn't really changed I'm not sure how he wasn;t afranchise player last year but was this year.

none of this makes sense to me.


Also if Carmelo isn't one how can you say Durant is? or Rose? There is no reason to believe Durant has produced more than Carmelo has.

I think the difference is, there are levels to what you call a franchise player, it's not a one size fitz all shoe like you guys are making it out to be.

 

[kiddin like jason]

none of this makes sense to me.
None of us care.

 

[osh kosh bosh]

Originally Posted by Kiddin Like Jason

none of this makes sense to me.

None of us care.
?

I didn't ask you too.

 

[jpzx]

 

[im not you]

I thought a franchise player is the guy on your team that you build the franchise around. So he's right in the sense that not everyone has a franchiseplayer.

Anyway moving on...how likely is it the Kings grab Curry with the 4th pick?

 

[bhzmafia14]

Originally Posted by Im Not You

I thought a franchise player is the guy on your team that you build the franchise around. So he's right in the sense that not everyone has a franchise player.

Anyway moving on...how likely is it the Kings grab Curry with the 4th pick?

Not likely. Curry will either be a Grizzlie, Thunder, Timberwolf or Knick on draft night IMO. I just don't really see Sacramento giving Curry the PGduties, but if they did select him it would probably be to make a trade later.

Not sure about Melo, but I can't blame anyone that believes he is a franchise player/superstar. He made me a believer this past playoff run.
I'm still iffy on him though. He wasn't more of his leadership, but more of Billups. Ask yourself this question. If you put Melo' onany non playoff team in the league right now, would he make that team a legit contender?

 

[jpzx]

I don't get why people are saying, "Curry to the T'Wolves"?

There's been no buzz/rumors about us showing interest at all.

 

[im not you]

/\ Actually there's been talks that he was high on their list @ 6. Just read through the links and articles posted in this thread alone.

 

[bangdak]

Originally Posted by Osh Kosh Bosh

Originally Posted by I NaSmatic I

Agreed on Dirk. Can't believe I forgot about him.

Not sure about Melo, but I can't blame anyone that believes he is a franchise player/superstar. He made me a believer this past playoff run.

Why, whats different about him, isn't he the same dude with better teammates? Melo hasn't really changed I'm not sure how he wasn;t a franchise player last year but was this year.

none of this makes sense to me.


Also if Carmelo isn't one how can you say Durant is? or Rose? There is no reason to believe Durant has produced more than Carmelo has.

I think the difference is, there are levels to what you call a franchise player, it's not a one size fitz all shoe like you guys are making it out to be.

you've got to be kidding. melo has mature A LOT after the olympics.
i'm not even going to bother arguing that...
to me, a franchise player is someone you build your franchise around. they might not have the qualities to become one, but they're forced to be that"person" due to the lack of talent available. IMHO.

 

[bigmike23]

[h1]2009 Extended Mock 2.0[/h1]
By Aran_Smith

Tue, 06/16/2009 - 9:24am

With less than 10 days remaining before the draft, here's our latest look at the first round with explainations of each pick.
[table][tr][td]
1.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]
Blake Griffin
[/td] [td]Some have compared this year's draft to the 2000 draft with Griffin being similar to K-Mart at the top. This draft is a little better and so is Griffin. Martin has had a great work ethic throughout his career, but always loved to party. Griffin appears to be more focused off the court, although he's more raw offensively than Martin entering the league.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
2.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Hasheem Thabeet[/td] [td]The Grizzlies have made some solid picks in recent years (Gay and Mayo), however the odds appear stacked against them this time around with a lot of uncertainty available at the #2 pick. Harden actually provides the most stability, but it would take some guts to draft him (due to lack of perceived upside with him). Chris Wallace isn't known for making gutsy decisions.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
3.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]James Harden[/td] [td]Presti appears to have his mind set on Harden at 3. Harden's workout numbers and measurements were especially impressive. When combined with his play, leading an undermanned Sun Devil team all year, those numbers are even more impressive. He fell apart in the tournament, but Harden has proven to be a winner in AAU (beating a Michael Beasley led team in the battle of camps game).[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
4.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Ricky Rubio[/td] [td]Rubio is suing his Spanish team to try to lower his buyout. There has to be some fear surrounding his ability to play in the NBA next year. Rubio has as much intrigue as anyone but comes with a lot of risks. The Kings are in a position where they can afford to gamble on him.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
5.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Jordan Hill[/td] [td]While Jordan Hill makes sense for Washington, he may ultimately be taken here except by another team. Washington has a number of players with overblown contracts and they are said to not like the players available here at 5. If they keep the pick, Hill makes sense for them.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
6.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Stephen Curry[/td] [td]Tyreke Evans actually works better with their current team than Curry. But like Washington, the T-Wolves may look to move out of this pick. A number of teams are enamored with Curry and there's speculation he won't last until the Knicks pick at 8. If a team is willing to part with an established veteran, this pick can likely be had.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
7.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Jonny Flynn[/td] [td]Golden State will likely go with a point guard. Flynn, Jennings and Teague are all possibilities. Flynn had the strongest finish to the season and is seen as the most ready to contribute. However, he lacks the upside of Teague and Jennings. But Nellie may not be willing to wait around for upside. Golden State would be smart to buy a 2nd rounder to grab local player (St. Mary's) Patty Mills.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
8.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Brandon Jennings[/td] [td]The Knicks could look to make a deal to move up and flop picks with Sacramento. The Kings like Rubio but if New York sweetened the pot with someone such as David Lee, it would be tough to turn down. Then again some feel that Lee is more valuable than Rubio or Jennings.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
9.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Gerald Henderson[/td] [td]Toronto has Derozan coming in for a workout on Tuesday. Apparently he is attending the workout but not thrilled with the idea of playing across the border. The Raptors may be forced to look for someone who is, and Henderson might be the guy for them.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
10.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Jeff Teague[/td] [td]The Bucks are enamored with Teague and feel that he can be their point guard for the future injecting some talent into a cap-shackled team. Teague is an upside pick and for a team sputtering at the end of the lottery each year, just what they need.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
11.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]DeMar DeRozan[/td] [td]The Nets appear to be in great position to grab a player that falls, similar to last year when nobody wanted Brook Lopez and he fell into their laps at 10. DeRozan could go as high as 5, but concerns exist about his readiness and maturity. He has a chance to be one of the top 3 players from this draft.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
12.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Tyreke Evans[/td] [td]Like Derozan, Evans could go a lot higher as teams are enamored with his upside as well. His ability to get into the paint with a quick first step and his combination of length and body strength make him intriguing. If Evans falls into the late lotto area, he'll have a much better chance of living up to the hype.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
13.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]DeJuan Blair[/td] [td]For teams searching for toughness, Blair offers a very intriguing option. Bird went for immediate results with his two picks last year (Rush and Hibbert). Though just a sophomore, Blair is one of the more solid, ready to contribute players out there.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
14.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]James Johnson[/td] [td]With a Shaq trade potentially looming this summer, the Suns may be ready to start over and go with a long term replacement in Mullins. Robin Lopez hasn't yet shown that he can be the ultimate replacement. Johnson would give them a more NBA ready option and with Kerr's seat warming up, a long term type of pick might not be in the cards.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
15.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]BJ Mullens[/td] [td]Trading away Billups was essentially giving up trying to win for a few years, but the team is in tremendous cap shape now and can start to reload for the future. Joe Dumars can afford to look for a long term player here. Rumors swirled around Daye and this pick, however Dumars is too smart for that. Mullens is the type of guy whose career may be affected by the team that he lands with. Detroit would be a great situation for him.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
16.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Earl Clark[/td] [td]The Bulls are in a position where they can grab upside with one pick and a more NBA ready guy with the other. One of this draft's enigmas, Clark struggled to fulfill his potential in his junior year but maintains a lot of intrigue. At 16, in a weak draft, the damage isn't quite so devastating if he completely flames out.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
17.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Chase Budinger[/td] [td]Budinger makes sense at Philly since he's one of the better shooters in this year's class and the Sixers were one of the worst shooting teams in the league last year. They also may opt for a point guard such as Eric Maynor, with Andre Miller aging.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
18.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Jrue Holiday[/td] [td]Holiday has somehow managed to eclipse his prep hype with his draft hype. Scouts remain high on him and mention Westbrook and Mbah a Moute as why he'll be good in the league, explaining that they also were covered up in the UCLA system. They also mention the fact that he proved he can play the point guard position in workouts, which is curious as well.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
19.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Wayne Ellington[/td] [td]The Hawks can use some long distance firepower to help out Joe Johnson. Ellington's inability to create for himself has some scouts concerned, but his ability to spot up and hit shots will make him an effective scorer in the NBA.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
20.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Tyler Hansbrough[/td] [td]With Boozer likely on the way out, Hansbrough would provide an excellent replacement to their new inside stud Paul Millsap. Hansbrough helped his cause measuring and testing nearly identical with Blake Griffin.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
21.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Eric Maynor[/td] [td]With New Orleans, it's possible they will sell this pick for cash as they did last year. It seems every time a team sells a pick it ends up being a very good player (Rudy Fernandez and Rajon Rondo being two examples).[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
22.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Terrence Williams[/td] [td]The Mavs are still holding onto championship dreams with Dirk as their #1. Whether or not he has enough left to get them there is another story. Terrence Williams should provide some instant contributions and will work well given the right responsibilities. A PG to eventually replace Kidd is also a possibility.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
23.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Omri Casspi[/td] [td]Casspi has done well in workouts and should find a spot in the early 20s. Sacramento makes sense as they're essentially building from scratch without much talent on the roster. Casspi would add toughness and hustle, something every team covets.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
24.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Derrick Brown[/td] [td]The Blazers have a number of quality players at each position. With an emerging Nicolas Batum as well as Travis Outlaw, this team doesn't need a small forward. But their philosophy is to draft for talent instead of need and let the chips fall where they may. They should be able to address their PG need in the 2nd round with a heavy PG class and four picks.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
25.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Ty Lawson[/td] [td]Lawson could go a little higher based on the Heels national championship, but teams are wary of his size and ability to get shots off. He could make for a nice back up to Russell Westbrook and play alongside him, at times, pushing Westbrook over to the 2 spot.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
26.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Sam Young[/td] [td]The Bulls could go in a number of directions here but teams were impressed with Young's willingness to fight through his arm injury and continue to work out. After taking Clark at 16, a more NBA ready guy like Young would make sense. Young is a warrior and though he lacks upside or an aesthetically pleasing game, he's effective and should be a solid role player right away.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
27.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]DaJuan Summers[/td] [td]Summers could provide a nice back up to Rudy Gay. He has good strength and solid athleticism. Memphis could also look for someone to challenge Conley here assuming they take Thabeet or someone other than Rubio with the 2nd pick.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
28.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Austin Daye[/td] [td]Daye has not impressed in workouts and could easily fall into the second round. He does have a top agent (Bill Duffy) which will help him find a spot in the first round. But without much strength, his ability to contribute anything for a few years is highly questionable. With three first rounders, Minnesota could also look at someone like Victor Claver to stash away in Europe for a few seasons.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
29.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Marcus Thornton[/td] [td]Coming off of their championship, the Lakers will look to repeat and improve by adding someone with immediate returns. Thornton may lack the upside of some other prospects but he's a great outside shooter and with four years of college under his belt and the experience to help out instantly. He has also looked good in the purple and gold at LSU.[/td] [/tr][tr][td]
30.
[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]

[/td] [td]Taj Gibson[/td] [td]The Cavs would love to see a player like Gibson available at their spot. Frontcourt depth is a real area of concern and while they can make a run at players like Carlos Boozer this offseason, another young energy[/td] [/tr][/table]

 

[lynchpin33]

i may be late, but is it true that Austin Daye from Gonzaga is going pro? Tell me I heard wrong please. I am a zag fan but he is no where close to being nbaready.

 

[jpzx]

^ Again, that mock's projecting us to take Curry but it doesn't say anywhere that we've stated we're interested.

 

[bigmike23]

[h6][/h6]

[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Aloha, everyone. Sorry for being late. I had a few techinical issues this morning. Congrats to the Lakers for winning the 2009 NBA Championship ... but I know most of you are ready to talk draft, trades and free-agency ... so lets roll

[h6]Andre (Puerto Rico)[/h6]
Hey Chad any chance the Clippers can trade there mega contracts: Kaman
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Maybe, with Blake Griffin coming they'll want to trade either Kaman or Zach Randolph's deal. Kaman's is easier to trade ... but in this climate, it isn't easy. So few teams are willing to take on salary right now. Most owners are trying to dump contracts. It won't be easy and if all those guys stay in LA, there's going to be a log jam with Kaman, Marcus Camby, Randolph and Griffin

[h6]Adam S. (Minnesota)[/h6]
I have been hearing rumors of the Wolves moving up to #2 to take Rubio. Any truth to this?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
There have been some rumblings around the league that they were talking to Memphis for what would be Kevin Love for the No. 2 pick. But from what I can gather, that's pretty bogus. The Wolves do like Rubio ... but there are all sorts of problems with them trading away Love ... the most obvious is that Love can't be traded back to the team that traded him in the first place for one year. So anything like that would have to happen after the draft. And, I'm not sure that Love is a perfect fit with Marc Gasol. They need more of a long, athletic shot blocker like ... Hasheem Thabeet!

[h6]Brandon Council, NC [via mobile][/h6]
Do u think that Jennings is better than Rubio?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Totally different players ... and no. Rubio is a true point guard who sees the floor and makes everyone around him better. Jennings is more in the mold of Allen Iverson -- a super quick guard who thrives at penetrating and creating his own shot. Rubio can score a little and Jennings can pass a little ... but they are totally different and at the end of the day finding guys like Rubio are a lot harder than finding guys like Jennings. And let's not forget, while Jennings was hyping his one-on-one matchup with Rubio ... Rubio was just coming back from a major injury. Look at their season at the end and it was Rubio, not Jennings, that was putting up the numbers in Europe.

[h6]Ryan (NY, NY)[/h6]
I would trade anyone on the Knicks for Rubio at number 2.
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
They're trying to get up there ... they are big fans and they should be. Rubio would be great in NY.Assuming they don't move down ... obviously Stephen Curry is high on their list. They also like Jordan Hill and Jrue Holiday and DeMar DeRozan

[h6]Brookes (Washington, DC)[/h6]
What do you expect to be the asking price for Josh Smith?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
A little cap relief so they can sign all of their other free agents like Marvin Williams, Mike Bibby, Zaza Pachulia, Josh Childress and Ronald Murray.The problem is that teams don't want to pay his trade kicker which is $7.2 million (not the $6 million I reported yesterday)

[h6]Kevin Pritchard (Starbucks - Mocking Draft #1mil)[/h6]
Chad - I will be trading up in the draft and grabbing Blair for our back up PF. I will also be using the cap space to make a run at Nash, Kidd, Miller and Sessions - in that order. I might even throw our hat in the Turkeyglue sweepstakes. Approve / Disapprove?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
That's not totally far off. The Blazers do like DeJuan Blair. Nash isn't a free agent so that's an issue. I do see Turkoglu as a target ... but they may not have enough cash. Blazers are looking at around $7 to $8 million in room this year

[h6]krayyy (los angeles)[/h6]
remember when granger slipped to 17? is blair the new Granger?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Could be. Granger slipped because of concerns about his knees and he turned out to be just fine. Blair is slipping for the same reason ... but the truth is that Blair's knees are totally fine right now. What doctors are worried about is what they'll be like in the future. He's been great in workouts and everyone loves him. If he slips, he's going to make a lot of teams regret it as long as he stays healthy.

[h6]Jake (New Jersey)[/h6]
Chad... there are now reports that the Knicks are secretly really high on Jordan Hill.... how true are these reports since they have not had him in for a workout yet and do you think Curry is still the guy they want at number 8?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
They like him and we've been reporting that for the past few weeks and even have the Knicks taking him at No. 8 on our latest mock draft. However ... I think if Curry's on the board they take him. But if he's gone, Hill is a real possibility.

[h6]AJ (SF)[/h6]
Chad - rumor has it that Monta Ellis is unhappy. The only way to appease him was to promise NOT to draft a point guard. If Jordan Hill is gone - who will GS take or will they trade the pick to the Clips for BD?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I've heard a few rumblings that direction, but c'mon ... are they really letting Monta Ellis draft for them ... please. The Warriors will take whoever they think helps the team the most. I do think Nellie thinks Ellis can play some point, but it won't stop them from taking a guy like Stephen Curry, for example, who can be a combo guy too. D

[h6]Danny (Minneapolis)[/h6]
It's no secret that the Cavs are looking to improve their team so LeBron doesn't bolt in 2010 -- who do you see as the most likely additions?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I don't want to say it's panic time in Cleveland. That's too strong. But it's panic time in Cleveland. If they don't put a team on the floor that shows LeBron they are a title contender again, not only next season, but beyond, why does he stay?On that end ... how does Shaq help in that equation? He really helped the Suns with their playoff aspirations this year. Antawn Jamison? Better ... but again, in the long term I'm not sure. And by the way, weren't those the guys the Cavs rejected in February?I think there's a bigger mess in Cleveland than people think. You never want to overract to a playoff loss like this ... but as their team gets older and more players are heading out next summer, they have to do something.

[h6]Geoff Petrie (Arco Arena)[/h6]
Hey Chad,Looking at our current situation in Sacramento what would be our best option come June 25?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Personally, I think it would be for Rubio to fall there. However, not everyone in Sacramento is sold on Rubio. I think that's crazy ... but if they don't love him, they don't love him. I'd say second best play for them is Jrue Holiday.

[h6]Michael (LA)[/h6]
Are the Lakers going to keep both Odom and Ariza? If not, which teams do you think are most interested in them?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I don't know how they can. From what my sources are telling me, they are absolutely keeping Trevor Ariza. I think Odom will come down to what he's looking at as far as amount and length of contract. Lots of teams would be interest in Ariza including the Blazers and Pistons ... two teams with cap room. I think Odom may have to do the midlevel thing unless the Pistons come through with more money. There just aren't a lot of teams with lots of cap room this year.

[h6]Brent (Chicago, IL)[/h6]
Is Mullin a good fit for Chicago at 16? Wouldn't Blair seem to be the better fit as they have no real muscle down low. Thanks.
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I like Blair there for the toughness he brings, but there's no question Mullens has more upside. A number of folks in Chicago are disputing that they promised Mullens ... so we'll see. At this time of the year, there is a lot of misinformation being spread. It's tought to sort out what's true from what's not

[h6]Carmen (Chicago, IL)[/h6]
Where does Ben Gordon land? And in this economy does he get the contract that he thinks he deserves?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I think Detroit is the most obvious destination for him. If they find a home for Amir Johnson and the No. 15 pick, they could probably afford him and Carlos Boozer. But no ... he's not getting the cash he thought he deserves ... not from chicago, not from anyone.

[h6]Marshall (Minnesota)[/h6]
Is there any truth to the rumour that Curry has stopped doing individual workouts after he was in NYC, does this send signals to a team like the Wolves that they should stay away from him?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Yes, he's stopping workouts and yes, he'd prefer that the Knicks draft him. So ... it makes sense for him to stop workouts and discourage a team like Minnesota from drafting him as long as, and this is key, he's SURE, the Knicks or Bobcats will draft him.

[h6]Tony (Boston,MA)[/h6]
Do you see the Celtics making a trade for a draft pick? If so for who? Who would the Celtics be trading? I hope NOT Ray Allen!
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
They are working it and a number of teams including the Grizzlies (no. 2), Thunder (no. 3), Wizards (no. 5), Raptors (no. 9) and Nets (No. 11) sound open to trading their pick. And they could probably get No. 4 if the Celtics were willing to put Rajon Rondo in the deal.

[h6]gregg (cleveland)[/h6]
do you buy kerr's proclamation that he won't move shaq in a straight salary dump? or is that simply posturing?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Probably posturing. A number of teams, including the Suns, are hurting financially. If they cans ave money, why not. I don't think the Suns are serious contenders next year as currently constructed.

[h6]Hidro (houston,tx)[/h6]
Where does Shawn Marion go? I wish he came back to Miami for midlevel moohlah
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
His best hope at making some cash is in Toronto ... I think he wants a lot more than the mid-level

[h6]Steve (Syracuse)[/h6]
Word was that LeBron talked to Johnny Flynn into going into the draft---any chance the Cavs try to move up to grab Flynn?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
That would be smart for the Cavs ... but I just don't know what they have to offer unless their willing to take back a terrible contract in return for an expiring one as part of the deal.

[h6]John (MD)[/h6]
If Blake Griffin isn't ROY next year who do you think will be?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I think only the Clippers could actually hold him back from winning the award. But if that happens (and the odds in LA have to be even, right?) then I'll go with Rubio

[h6]Jon (Charlotte, NC)[/h6]
What would it take for the Pacers to get the 5th pick? What are the chances of it happening and who would the Pacers take?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
It would probably cost them Jeff Foster and they'd have to take back some money and that's the issue ... they, like most teams, just aren't in a position to take on a lot of payroll right now.

[h6]Alex (Vienna)[/h6]
How good can Jordan Hill be and how bad can he be?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Lot of mixed opinions on him. I like him. I don't think he's a bust, but not sure where his ceiling is. I do think he plays hard, is a good rebounder and is improving on the offensive end. I think it's crazy if he slips out of the Top 10.

[h6]kara (MD)[/h6]
chad what is your favorite color
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Blue.

[h6]Obama (Washington DC)[/h6]
what would it take for Nets to deal Vince Carter to the Wizards
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I think they'd do it for just about anything that didn't cost the Nets a lot of money. the Wizards have the expiring contracts to make it happen ... if they are going for it ... they should consider it.I think No. 5, Mike James, Etan Thomas and Darius Songaila should do it.

[h6]Joel (DE)[/h6]
What are your thoughts on Omri Casspi? Do you belive he can be a solid starter in the NBA?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Maybe ...he's such a tough player. Reminds me a little of Matt Harping. He just needs to get a more consistent jump shot. I think he has a very good shot of being the first Israeli to go in the first round.

[h6]ryan (philppines)[/h6]
next year no. 1 pick?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
John Wall, Kentucky

[h6]tyler ((CA))[/h6]
if the heat do sign wade, what do you think is the best move to make after that?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Chris Bosh ... if they could land Bosh for a combo of Michael Beasley and some expiring contracts I'd do that in a heartbeat if I were the Heat. Bosh and Wade would be a terrific combo

[h6]Jeremy (Rochester, NY)[/h6]
Any hope on Paul Harris or Eric Devendorf getting drafted?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Harris has impressed some people and I think he could be a second round sleeper. Devendorf? Not so much

[h6]Dan (mitchell)[/h6]
Who gets drafted first? teague or Lawson?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Jeff Teague

[h6]Mike (Portland, OR)[/h6]
I saw Milan Macvan play in the World Hoop Summit and thought he was great. What is his draft status?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
He withdrew from the draft yesterday

[h6]Joe (MD)[/h6]
Who is the biggest sleeper in the draft and who will be the biggest bust?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Maybe Earl Clark. He has the talent to be very, very, very good. People are understandably worried about his work ethic, but if he matures and gets it, he could be terrific.

[h6]Rocko (New York)[/h6]
Why is Wayne Ellington not in your 1st round anymore?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Never was, but could be. But I actually think more likely to crack the first round are a few bigs like Jeff Pendegraph, Taj Gibson and DeMarre Carroll ... guards tend to slip toward the end of the draft

[h6]Ryan (NY. NY)[/h6]
Is Gerald Henderson this years Courtney Lee?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
No. Sam Young is.

[h6]Rocko (New York)[/h6]
Why is James Johnson falling in most mock drafts? Is it his extra weight and tweener concerns?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Yes. He could still go Top 10 ... but if he fell into the early 20s I wouldn't be surprised either.

[h6]Andy (Boston)[/h6]
Do you really see Tyler Hansbrough going #11?? This seems like a major reach. . . Why wouldn't the Nets just trade down in this case?
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
How far do they trade down. He's in the mix with the Pacers at 13, Bulls at 16 and Jazz at 20. If he's the guy you like, why not just take him. It's not like he was a scrub in college.

[h6]Gary (LA)[/h6]
What's your read on the Bucks GM John Hammond? Smart? Inexperienced? Capable? He made a great move with Mbah a Moute in the 2nd last year but a bad one with Joe Alexander at 8...
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Smart ... very well trained in Detroit. Bucks were a playoff team before all their energies. I didn't agree with the Alexander pick, but they nailed it on Mbah Moute. I think they go with a PG and will get a good one.

[h6]Joel (DE)[/h6]
Give us your top 5 international players in the draft.
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
1. Rubio2. Omri Casspi3. Jonas Jerebko4. Victor Claver5. Nando De Colo

[h6]Eric (L.A., CA)[/h6]
Chad, who do you think the Sixers draft at 17? I am hoping for Ty Lawson myself. Thanks!
[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
I think it's either Lawson or Eric Maynor. I think Maynor is the better pick.

[h6]Chad Ford[/h6]
Gotta run everyone. Thanks for coming to the chat today. I'm so fired up about the draft. Let's do it again next week ...

 

[doublejs07]

I think there's a bigger mess in Cleveland than people think.

hope my dude EOH doesn't see this mess about VC going to the Wizards...

what would it take for Nets to deal Vince Carter to the Wizards
Chad Ford

I think they'd do it for just about anything that didn't cost the Nets a lot of money. the Wizards have the expiring contracts to make it happen ... if they are going for it ... they should consider it.I think No. 5, Mike James, Etan Thomas and Darius Songaila should do it.


all of that for Vince? Unless Vince can be a legit low-post presence, and play good interior D, I just don't get this move one bit....unless it's thefirst of a duo of moves EG is gonna make...the second would be to bring in Amar'e.....but if we give up all of that to get VC, what would it takerealistically to get a legit Big?

 

[ValarMorghulis]

man i missed some good stuff....

OKB

paul

Jason

i mean thats what these threads are for