2010 NBA Draft Grades

Atlanta Hawks
Picks: Jordan Crawford (27), Pape Sy (53)
With an undersized center, a ton of swingmen, and a bunch of guards vying for playing time, the Hawks' need for big man was clear. With potential-laden shot-blockers Daniel Orton, Hassan Whiteside, and Solomon Alabi still on the board at 24, picking Damion James - yet another swingman - was rather puzzling, and trading him for Jordan Crawford was downright beguiling. Crawford is going to be a good scorer in the NBA, but he's unmistakably similar to Jamal Crawford (not just in name), so it's hard to see what role he'll play on this Hawks team.
Grade: C-


Boston Celtics
Picks: Avery Bradley (19), Luke Harangody (52)
With their guard rotation in utter disarray (Ray Allen, Nate Robinson, Tony Allen and Marquis Daniels are all free agents), Ainge recognized the need for a versatile ball-handler. Avery Bradley is an athletic young point guard who played off the ball in college, a la Russell Westbrook and Jrue Holiday, and like those fine young talents, he is a terrific defender. Like most young combo guards he is not a great shooter or a great passer, but his athleticism and focus will make his transition relatively smooth. Seeing how well the Celtics have molded undersized power forwards into solid pros (Glen Davis and Leon Powe helped them to a title), Harangody was an excellent pick up late in the second round.
Grade: A-

Charlotte Bobcats
Picks: None
Grade: N/A

Chicago Bulls
Picks: None
For $17 million over next two years, Kirk Hinrich, who averaged 10.9 points and 4.5 assists last year, is ridiculously overpaid. Handing him and his burdensome contract off to the Wizards - and subsequently positioning themselves as the favorite to sign LeBron James - was an absolute coup.
Grade: A

Cleveland Cavaliers
Picks: None
Grade: N/A


Dallas Mavericks
Picks: Dominque Jones (25)
Despite boasting great depth at both guard spots, Jones was a steal at 25. He put up huge numbers (21.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists) against tough Big East competition, and has all the tools to succeed in the pros. With Nowitzki opting out, Haywood's contract expiring, and Eric Dampier continuing to stink, they might have been better served drafting a big man. They want to win now, however, and while Jones won't necessarily win games for them this year, he'll prove to be much more valuable than an unpolished center.
Grade: B

Denver Nuggets
Picks: None
Grade: N/A


Detroit Pistons
Picks: Greg Monroe (7), Terrico White (36)
Joe Dumars makes up for drafting Austin Daye 15th overall last year by nabbing Monroe, the true center they've needed for so long. A terrific passer with great post moves and commendable instincts on the defensive end, he could be the solid big man that stabilizes this erratic Pistons squad. White, an incredibly athletic 6-5 combo guard, was a great value pick at 36.
Grade: A


Golden State Warriors
Picks: Ekpe Udoh (6)
The Warriors drew some heat for this pick, having failed to mold long and lanky forward prospects Brandan Wright and Anthony Randolph into reliable starters. What the haters don't seem to understand is that Udoh is an entirely different player, and a much better fit in Golden State's system. The Warriors were in dire need of a shot-blocker, and Udoh averaged 3.7 swats per game for a team that nearly reached the Final Four. He is much more polished than fans realize, boasting a smooth jumper and terrific handles for a guy his size. Wright was 19 on draft day and Randolph was 18; Udoh is 23, which should be viewed as a positive in terms of his ability to contribute immediately to a team that could definitely use his skills.
Grade: A-


Houston Rockets
Picks: Patrick Patterson (14)
The presence of power forward Jordan Hill, the ninth player in taken in last year's draft, is all that prevents this pick from earning the highest mark I can bestow. With Luis Scola set to become a free agent, and Yao's health still in question, Houston wisely addressed a need in the front court. Patterson is arguably the most NBA-ready player in this class, which makes him a perfect fit for the Rockets, who expect to be a playoff team when healthy. One wonders, however, if this means that they've given up on Jordan Hill, who has more upside but struggled mightily in his rookie campaign. Regardless, grabbing a potential starter with the last pick in the lottery warrants legitimate praise.
Grade: A-



Whoops...


Indiana Pacers
Picks: Paul George (10), Lance Stephenson (40), Magnum Rolle (51)
Their franchise player is a sweet-shooting 6-8 swingman who doesn't do much of anything else. So naturally, rather than fill a need down low or take a chance on a point guard to replace T.J. Ford, they draft a sweet-shooting 6-9 swingman who doesn't do much of anything else. It is hard to imagine George, a watered-down clone of Granger, playing alongside the All-Star forward, a thought that's particularly frustrating when you consider how they could have added depth and talent to either one of the two most important positions on the floor. Stephenson's potential makes him a steal at 40, but he's just another swingman who dominates the ball and will want to take shots away form Granger. He has always been a head case, so now one can't help but wonder how the Coney Island product feels about playing in Indiana, after his hometown Knicks took Andy Rautins and Landry Fields - neither of whom really expected to get drafted - immediately before the Pacers picked at 40.
Grade: C-


Los Angeles Clippers
Picks: Al-Farouq Aminu (8), Erick Bledsoe (18), Willie Warren (54)
When you grab three prospects who at some point in their college careers were all projected to be a top-10 pick, you know you've come away with a great haul. Aside from simply filling a glaring hole at small forward, Aminu is a perfect fit. His athleticism, ability to guard any one of three of positions, unselfishness, and tenacity on the defensive end will allow surrounding starters Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, and Chris Kaman to do their thing on offensive more comfortably. Bledsoe will make an immediate impact as Baron's backup, and Warren could still be a star if he's properly nurtured.
Grade: A


Los Angeles Lakers
Picks: Devin Ebanks (43), Derrick Caracter (58)
For the first time in years, it appears the Lakers were really trying. The 6-8 Ebanks was held as a potential lottery pick for much of his career, and he might actually get some run on a team that only has one reliable reserve taller than 6-4. Caracter was hailed as a transcendent talent as a young teenager, but garnered the reputation of being immature and selfish throughout much of his college career, though he grew up a bit after transferring to UTEP. Los Angeles might the perfect place for him to realize his potential.
Grade: A


Memphis Grizzlies
Picks: Xavier Henry (12), Greivis Vasquez (28)
The burgeoning Zach Randolph ordeal is too complex to muse on at this point, so let's leave his potential departure out of this for the time being. With Rudy Gay set to become an unrestricted free agent - and without any guards they can rely upon to score - taking Henry was certainly a smart move. Rumor is they're planning on moving O.J. Mayo to the point, but in case they decide not to move Conley, Maryland's Greivis Vasquez will at least give him some strong competition. A great scorer with great court vision, he will make himself useful no matter what.
Grade: B+


Miami Heat
Picks: Dexter Pittman (32), Jarvis Varnado (41), Da'Sean Butler (42)
Despite training their focus entirely on free agency, Miami made some surprisingly smart picks. Taking Pittman early in the second round was a surprise, but he is gigantic and has some refined post moves. Varnado, the greatest shot-blocker in NCAA history, was a steal at 41, and had Da'Sean Butler not sustained a terrible injury in West Virginia's clash with Duke in the Final Four, he would have been a first round pick. The Heat's obsession with cutting costs suggests that a couple of these guys might never see the floor, but if they are given a chance, they should prove to be worthwhile additions.
Grade: B


Milwaukee Bucks
Picks: Larry Sanders (15), Darrington Hobson (37), Jerome Jordan (44), Tiny Gallon (47)
Despite possessing just one first round pick, Milwaukee managed to nab a potential starter, an All-American forward, a 7-footer who can actually play, and one of the top 10 prospects in last year's recruiting class. Sanders' dominance on the defense end could make him the perfect complement to Bogut down the road, Jordan could immediately become the backup center, and Gallon adds some bulk to a relatively thin front line. The addition of Chris Douglas-Roberts makes it hard to see how Hobson fits in, but he was a bargain at 37.
Grade: A-


Minnesota Timberwolves
Picks: Wesley Johnson (4), Lazar Hayward (30), Nemanja Bjelica (35), Paulo Prestes (45)
Though he might never be an All-Star, Wesley Johnson was a great pick at the four spot, giving the lowly Wolves a much-needed outside shooting threat, versatility on both ends of the floor, and a winning attitude. He will likely start from day one, and while he won't lead them to the playoffs without another solid addition or two, he will help lead them out of the gutter. Cousins was the better available prospect, but apparently Minnesota was concerned with his maturity (read: lack thereof) and how he would fit in with Al Jefferson and Kevin Love. Johnson was surely a smart pick, but their three later selections are puzzling. Hayward will be playing behind Johnson, Brewer, and the newly acquired Martell Webster, and Bjelica and Prestes might not come to the NBA. There were plenty of players on the board in the second round who could have made an impact this year.
Grade: B


New Jersey Nets
Picks: Derrick Favors (3), Damion James (24)
Nothing New Jersey did on draft night made much sense. How the Nets rebuild will be defined by who they acquire in free agency (they have over $30 million in cap room), and even if Favors was the best prospect on the board, his being a young, potential-laden power forward will likely scare away the players they had the best chance of signing, like Amare Stoudemire, Carlos Boozer and Chris Bosh; had they drafted Wes Johnson, they would have filled a hole in the lineup and then could more comfortably offer a power forward a lucrative contract. Memphis will likely match anything that Rudy Gay is offered, Joe Johnson is not going to a 12-win team, and they are not expecting to sign LeBron James. They sort of made up for that mishap by finally adding a lights-out shooter in Jordan Crawford, only to trade him and the 31st-overall pick for another swingman who can't shoot; the Nets lost so many games last year because they simply could not hit jump shots, and Crawford could have been huge for them. Favors might have as much potential as anyone in the draft, but this draft could be viewed as a setback in their rebuilding process.
Grade: D-


New Orleans Hornets
Picks: Craig Brackins (21), Quincy Pondexter (26)
Burdened with bad contracts and their franchise player's growing frustration, the Hornets had a lot to prove last Thursday, and man did they deliver. Unsatisfied with their options at 11, they drafted and immediately traded Cole Aldrich and Morris Peterson to Oklahoma City for the 18th pick, a genius maneuver. With David West's contract expiring at the end of this season they would not want to be left with two undersized centers who can't really score (Okafor being the other), and managed to clear over $6 million in cap space, effectively evading a luxury tax bill. Brackins is the scoring big man they needed (he dropped 42 on Kansas as a sophomore), and Pondexter will get big minutes for a late first round pick.
Grade: A-


New York Knicks
Picks: Andy Rautins (38), Landry Fields (39)
Syracuse's Andy Rautins, who led the Orange to a 30-5 record and ranks among the draft's five best shooters and passers, and Stanford's Landry Fields, who averaged 22 points and 8.8 rebounds for a Pac-10 school, are examples of unheralded prospects who deserved to go as high as they did, but are rightfully viewed by fans as gross errors in judgement by the team that took them. Of the five Knicks under contract for next season, three are wings (Danillo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Bill Walker), one is a point guard who can't really play the point (Toney Douglas), and one is Eddy Curry, meaning Rautins and Fields - both wings - have already been rendered useless. They could have added depth at point guard with Willie Warren or Sherron Collins, and definitely could have used Gani Lawal's low-post scoring or Jarvis Varnado's low-post defense. Rautins and Fields can both play, but whether they'll ever play in a Knicks uniform is very much in question.
Grade: D+


Oklahoma City Thunder
Picks: Cole Aldrich (11), Tibor Pleiss (31), Latavious Williams (48), Ryan Reid (57)
The crop of prospects Oklahoma City rounded up is extraordinarily interesting. They come from three different leagues (Aldrich and Reid from the NCAA, Pleiss from the German League, and Williams from the NBDL), and only one averaged double-figures in scoring (Aldrich), and he only averaged 11.3 points per game. The Thunder addressed major needs in the front court by drafting a sensational low post defender in Aldrich and a true center with great scoring potential in Pleiss, and could reap major dividends from this haul even if Williams and Reid (who averaged 6.8 points and 4 rebounds as a senior) never see the floor.
Grade: B+


Orlando Magic
Picks: Daniel Orton (29), Stanley Robinson (59)
It's so hard to give the Magic a good grade, because you know neither of these guys will play their rookie year. Both were huge steals (Orton could have been a lottery pick, Robinson was expected to go about 25 spots earlier), and they would fit in well with the Magic, but they might not play a minute of solid game time in the foreseeable future. This is a team so deep that talented forwards Brandon Bass and Ryan Anderson, who could easily average 14-7 on any other team, were not even playing at the end of the year due to a shortage of minutes to go around, while they're paying Marcin Gortat $7 million a year knowing he'll play only 13 minutes a night. Regardless, Orton is very much like Dwight Howard, who should be a great mentor for the talented young center, and should they lose both J.J. Redick and Matt Barnes in free agency, Robinson could potentially make an impact at the swing. This is a team that is trying as hard to win right now as anyone in the league, however, so if anyone is to leave, they'll likely be replaced with a veteran who's ready to start for them. You have to admire the effort they put in, though.
Grade: B+


Philadelphia 76ers
Picks: Evan Turner (2)
He won't fit in next to Andre Iguodala, there's a logjam in talent at the guard spots, blah, blah, blah. Not only was Turner the best prospect on the board, but he fills the only hole in their lineup, and should realize his potential in the pros, it wouldn't matter if he was playing alongside Phillip Seymour Hoffman in Along Came Polly.
Grade: A


Phoenix Suns
Picks: Gani Lawal (46), Dwayne Collins (60)
Preparation for Amare's departure? The Suns used both of their second round picks on power forwards, and while neither would be able to replace Stoudemire in the starting lineup, the athletic and reasonably experienced Lawal could earn big minutes.
Grade: B+


Portland Trailblazers
Picks: Luke Babbitt (16), Elliot Williams (22), Armon Johnson (34)
In his last act as GM of the Portland Trailblazers, Kevin Pritchard proved not only why he should have kept his job, but why he is, and has been since the day he arrived in Portland, the best GM in the entire league. Martell Webster was no longer contributing, so Pritchard wisely dealt him to move up to 16 where he nabbed Luke Babbitt, who some had going as high as 8th overall. Elliot Williams is a great scorer and a top-notch defender (he's just a bit undersized), and recognizing that the Blazers don't have a true backup point guard, Pritchard astutely selected Nevada's Armon Johnson. Unless Pritchard committed some heinous act that the Blazers' organization wants to keep under wraps, his firing was utterly inexplicable.
Grade: A-


Sacramento Kings
Picks: DeMarcus Cousins (5), Hassan Whiteside (33)
Quick! Name five great centers in the NBA! How about three? Two? Andrew Bogut made an All-NBA team this past season, which only reaffirmed my pride in having Cousins ranked atop my big board since November. No team is going to want to play a team with Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins. On top of nabbing Cousins the Kings managed to grab 7-footer Hassan Whiteside, who averaged 5.4 blocks as a freshman and was hailed as a can't-miss prospect all year. So, why don't the Kings earn top marks? Well, Cousins and Whiteside were the only players in the draft who were universally labeled "immature." They both left after their freshman year, are used to dominating and getting what they want...and they both play the same position. NBADraft.net projected Whiteside would be the #1 pick in 2011 earlier this year. Don't think he isn't aware.
Grade: B


San Antonio Spurs
Picks: James Anderson (20), Ryan Richards (49)
Once again, the Spurs parlay a late pick into a potential major contributor. Anderson was expected to go earlier, seeing as he tore the Big 12 to shreds and at 6-6 boasts prototypical size for the shooting guard position in the league. With Roger Mason now gone, he could see big minutes as a rookie. Ryan Richards is a mystery, and while he's certainly not the heir to Tim Duncan's throne, he will become the only other Spur taller than 6-9 (he's 7-0), making him immediately valuable in that respect.
Grade: A


Toronto Raptors
Picks: Ed Davis (13), Solomon Alabi (50)
I hadn't planned on dishing out so many A's, but I've been given no choice! Preparing to lose Chris Bosh, the Raptors wisely targeted big men and landed an absolute steal in North Carolina PF Ed Davis (my #1 college prospect entering the season), who should start right away, his excellent defensive instincts (2.8 blocks) and efficiency in the post (57.8% FG) making him a great complement to emerging star Andrea Bargnani. Florida State's Solomon Alabi was a major steal at 50 (many thought he would go in the first round), and could allow Bargnani to move to the power forward spot, where he's more comfortable, when out on the floor with him.
Grade: A


Utah Jazz
Picks: Gordon Hayward (9), Jeremy Evans (55)
Coming off a surprisingly good year in which they won 53 games, the Jazz had two very clear needs: a shot-blocker, and some explosiveness. Gordon Hayward not only fulfills neither of these pressing needs, but only further stereotypes concerning Utah's affinity for white guys. Preparing to lose Carlos Boozer, and having relied upon Kyrylo Fesenko - arguably the least-skilled player ever to start a playoff game - against the eventual champion Lakers, the Jazz were in dire need of a shot-blocker, and with Ed Davis, Larry Sanders, and the extremely talented Hassan Whiteside still on the board, they had plenty of options; in terms of explosiveness, Paul George or Xavier Henry would have made more sense than I can begin to complain about. But they took Hayward, Draft Express' #9 small forward prospect (that "small forward" prospect, not "overall" prospect), a shooter who shot 29.4% from range. They could have redeemed themselves somewhat late in the second round by taking the explosive, NBA-ready Stanley Robinson, or Rutgers center Hamady N'Diaye, who averaged 4.5 blocks last season. Instead they took the least talented player in the draft, Jeremy Evans, a 196-pound power forward who averaged 10 points and 6.9 rebounds for Western Kentucky. Well done.
Grade: F


Washington Wizards
Picks: John Wall (1), Kevin Seraphin (17), Trevor Booker (23), Hamady N'Diaye (56)
In Wall, the Wizards have a surefire franchise point guard who should be an All-Star very soon. Trevor Booker was a reach at 23, but he's a real gamer and already the Wizards' best low-post option; ESPN's David Thorpe even went so far as to rank him #8 in his rookie rankings entering the 2010-11 campaign. Trading for Kirk Hinrich and the 17th pick was simply ridiculous, however. The Wizards were looking to make a major splash in free agency in 2011, but will now be saddled with the two years and $17 million left on Hinrich's deal. He will make them a slightly better team this year, but could be the difference between landing or losing a max free agent next summer. The Wizards could only make mistakes on draft night; they just couldn't keep their wallet shut.
Grade: C+

FINAL 2010 NBA MOCK DRAFT

1. Wizards: John Wall
Surefire franchise point guard, potential franchise savior.
2. 76ers: Evan Turner
He is not a great fit for them, and they will likely try to trade down, but he's too good to pass up.
3. Nets - Derrick Favors
Syracuse's Wes Johnson would be a much better fit, as he could immediately fill in at the 3, whereas Favors could scare away a number of free agents they were planning on wooing, namely Amar'e Stoudemire and Carlos Boozer. As speculation concerning the Nets potentially drafting Johnson picked up steam, however, a few respected analysts emerged praising Favors as having the most potential of any prospect.
4. Timberwolves - Wesley Johnson
Satisfies their need for a wing who they can depend on to put the ball in the basket.
5. Kings - DeMarcus Cousins
If anyone can tame the infamously hot-headed Cousins it's Paul Westphal, who coached the comparably unstable Barkley to an MVP award and Finals appearance.
6. Warriors - Ekpe Udoh
Monroe and Aminu might be better prospects, but Udoh fits perfectly in their system as an athletic big who can shoot and run the floor like a guard. He's also the tenacious defender they lack down low.
7. Pistons - Greg Monroe
They will decide between Monroe and Ed Davis here, and while Davis has more upside, Monroe is the true center they've needed for years, and could contribute immediately.
8. Clippers - Al-Farouq Aminu
Harboring high hopes for the first time in years, the Clips have a great core that includes Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, Chris Kaman - and a gaping hole at small forward. For the past few weeks it appeared that Aminu, widely regarded as the best SF prospect, would be gone by the time they picked, though now he looks to fall right into their lap.
9. Jazz - Ed Davis
A big man with the desire to play defense and someone who might provide some explosiveness are the Jazz's biggest needs, and Davis fulfills both.
10. Pacers - Patrick Patterson
They're actively trying to trade up, and for a point guard, but should they keep the pick, Patterson is their man. He is similar to Hansbrough, but he's tougher and more versatile (Hansbrough looks to be a career backup), and with Troy Murphy set to depart in the next year, they need more size down low.
11. Hornets - Paul George
In order to convince Chris Paul to stay, they might need to hit a home run tonight. Scouts have likened George to Rudy Gay, and he could be an impact scorer from day one.
12. Grizzlies - Luke Babbitt
The Nevada swingman could go as high as 8 to the Clippers, but should he fall further he would be a great fit in Memphis as an insurance policy should they lose Gay, while bearing the potential to fill in at the 4 should they lose Zach Randolph as well.
13. Raptors - Avery Bradley
Bradley is a point guard who played off the ball in college and put up mediocre numbers...but hey, the same can be said about Russell Westbrook and Jrue Holiday! The Raptors are preparing to shake things up in a big way, and they're high on the potential-laden Bradley, who they think could become a building block alongside DeMar DeRozan.
14. Rockets - Gordon Hayward
Houston will nab the best available player here, bearing dependable starters at every position on the floor. Hayward has awesome potential, great size for 2 or the 3, and you can never have too many shooters.
15. Bucks - Daniel Orton
Acquiring Maggette means they might not target a wing, as many had predicted they would. Orton, an incredibly tough defender and a monster on the glass, would be a great fit next to Bogut, one of the league's most offensively proficient centers who gets better on the offensive end each year.
16. Timberwolves - Xavier Henry
Should Henry fall this far he would be an absolute steal. He's similar to Wayne Ellington, only he's much better at just about everything.
17. Wizards - Damion James
Every young team could use a little toughness, and while James would be just a rookie next year, he's pretty damn tough. One of the most experienced players on the college level last season, James steadily improved as a scorer over the course of his career at Texas, and he might be the best rebounder in this class.
18. Thunder - Cole Aldrich
This would be another huge steal for OKC. 6-10 centers with remedial athleticism and little offensive polish aren't hot these days, but Aldrich is an all-world defender with a good feel for the game, and many feel he's worthy of a lottery pick.
19. Celtics - Eric Bledsoe
Boston's backcourt could be in complete dissaray very soon; Ray Allen, Tony Allen, Nate Robinson and Marquis Daniels will all become free agents come July 1, so you can be sure Danny Ainge will target a guard. Bledsoe is a point guard with outstanding range, is a lockdown defender, and has experience playing off the ball. He would be a great fit in Boston, especially if they're thinking of rebuilding.
20. Spurs - Hassan Whiteside
Some (myself included) feel Whiteside is worthy of being a top five selection, but concerns about his attitude (he's compared himself to Hakeem Olajuwon), age (he's a 21-year old freshman), and polish on the offensive end have scared some teams away. San Antonio would be a perfect fit, as the extraordinarily talented young 7-footer could learn from the game's most humble future Hall of Famer in Tim Duncan, and could earn playing time right away due to the Spurs lack of depth down low, without being heavily relied upon.
21. Thunder - Tibor Pleiss
Apparently Sam Presti believes the 7-foot German could be the serviceable center they've lacked since Durant came to town.
22. Trailblazers - James Anderson
A top-15 talent, Anderson would be yet another prototypical Pritchard steal.
23. Timberwolves - Elliot Williams
He would be the third shooter they drafted, but then again, this is a team that depended on Corey Brewer to knock down threes.
24. Hawks - Solomon Alabi
The Hawks desperately need size down low, and Alabi is a big body capable of blocking shots and snagging boards. He might not be a starter, but he would certainly fill a major need.
25. Grizzlies - Kevin Seraphin
Would add much-needed toughness to the Grizzlies front line, especially if Zach Randolph leaves due to legal troubles.
26. Thunder - Dominique Jones
The ever-improving Thunder still lack dependable outside shooting, and Dominique Jones is one of the most well-rounded scorers to be had in this draft.
27. Nets - Jordan Crawford
They will likely grab a dependable shooter in free agency, but should they fail to reel one in, Xavier's Jordan Crawford is a tremendous scorer who routinely shoots the lights out, and is known to ocassionaly dunk on LeBron James at his basketball camp.
28. Grizzlies - Greivis Vasquez
Projected as a very late second round prospect for much of the year (many thought he wouldn't be drafted), Vasquez, who at 6-6 plays the point guard position as well as anyone in this class not named Wall, is finally getting recognition as being worthy of a first round pick. The Grizzlies want to move O.J. Mayo to the point, or at the very least grab someone to compete with Conley, making the versatile Vasquez a great fit.
29. Magic - Willie Warren
The Magic have nothing to lose (they don't have room in the rotation for at least two players who could start on a number of teams), so if Warren acts up, they can just bench him. For them, the risk is absolutely worth the potential reward. Jameer Nelson is the only point guard the Magic have locked up next year, and Warren is a terrific ball-handler with tremendous upside.
30. Wizards - Samardo Samuels
They could use a true post scorer, and Samuels is as comfortable playing around the basket as anyone in this class.

31. Nets - Tiny Gallon
32. Heat - Lance Stephenson
33. Kings - Quincy Pondexter
34. Trailblazers - Armon Johnson
35. Wizards - Trevor Booker
36. Pistons - Devin Ebanks
37. Bucks - Larry Sanders
38. Knicks - Darrington Hobson
39. Knicks - Gani Lawal
40. Pacers - Mikhail Torrance
41. Heat - Terrico White
42. Heat - Craig Brackins
43. Lakers - Lazar Hayward
44. Bucks - Nemanja Bjelica
45. Timberwolves - Paulo Prestes
46. Suns - Stanley Robinson
47. Bucks - Luke Harangody
48. Heat - Ryan Richards
49. Spurs - Thomas Heurtel
50. Mavericks - Jerome Jordan
51. Thunder - Alexey Shved
52. Celtics - Brian Zoubek
53. Hawks - Sherron Collins
54. Clippers - Jarvis Varnado
55. Jazz - Hamady N'Diaye
56. Timberwolves - Jon Scheyer
57. Pacers - Latavious Williams
58. Lakers - Mac Koshwal
59. Magic - Art Parakhouski
60. Suns - Manny Harris

Penultimate Mock Draft

This mock draft is entirely need-based. I will post the final one either Wednesday night or Thursday morning. It will undoubtedly change a great deal over the next couple days, but if the draft were to take place tomorrow, here's how I would see it going down.


1. Wizards: John Wall (6-4/195; PG; Freshman; Kentucky)
It will be interesting to see how Wall meshes with Arenas. Props to the Wizards' brass for not formally announcing their intention to draft the Kentucky phenom.

2. 76ers: Evan Turner (6-7/214; SG/SF; Junior; Ohio State)
Here is an interesting case of a player fillling a major hole and at the same time not fitting in. Turner is very similar to Andre Iguodala, but at this point the Sixers think they can make it work. Philly will attempt to shop the pick (as well as Iggy and Elton Brand) up until they're called on to make a selection.

3. Nets: Derrick Favors (6-10/246; PF; Freshman; Georgia Tech)
The 18-year old Georgia Tech product could form with Brook Lopez one of the lesgue's most dynamic low-post pairings. The Nets could (and should) go for DeMarcus Cousins after he turned in an awesome performance in his workout for them, but for now, Favors still looks to be the pick.


4. Timberwolves: Wesley Johnson (6-7/206; SF; Junior; Syracuse)
The Wolves have all but sent out a press release announcing their intention to draft Johnson, who satisfies their need for a wing who they can depend on to put the ball in the basket.

5. Kings: DeMarcus Cousins (6-11/292; C; Freshman; Kentucky)
After blowing them away in a workout in which he hit 78% of his shots, Cousins leapfrogged Monroe as the lead contender for the Kings' selection. If anyone can tame the infamously hot-headed Cousins it's Paul Westphal, who coached the comparably unstable Barkley to an MVP award and Finals appearance.

6. Warriors: Greg Monroe (6-11/247; PF/C; Sophomore; Georgetown)
The Warriors desperately for size down low, and Monroe is the more traditional big man who could help organize and stabilize such an erratic team.


7. Pistons: Al-Farouq Aminu (6-8/216; SF; Sophomore; Wake Forest)
Detroit is is dire need of a center, and while there are plently of talented bigs to be had, none measure up to Aminu in terms of potential. Tayshaun Prince only has one year left on his contract, so drafting a wing despite having a hole down low isn't so ridiculous. Cole Aldrich would have been a perfect fit, but when he measured an inch shorter than expected and tested as a remedial athlete, Dumars likely resolved to focus on talent above need.

8. Clippers: Luke Babbit (6-9/218; SF; Sophomore; Nevada)
Harboring high hopes for the first time in years, the Clips have a great core that includes Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, Chris Kaman - and a gaping hole at small forward. They will doubtlessly target and wing, and while they'll hope Aminu falls to them, Babbit is likely the pick. A terrific scorer (averaged 21.9 ppg while shooting 41.6% from range and 91.7% from the line) with great size and a higher vertical leap than Aminu, Babbit could easily step in and contribute at the swing right away.


9. Jazz: Ed Davis (6-10/225; PF; Sophomore; North Carolina)
GM Kevin O'Connor is enamored of Greg Monroe, whose NBA-readiness, size and skill set and would allow them to more comfortably let Carlos Boozer walk, but there is no way he slips past Detroit. The Jazz could use some explosiveness on the wing, but they desperately need size. While they're high on Ekpe Udoh and Cole Aldrich, they feel that Davis is a better fit in their system and has the potential to become a star, not just a defensive specialist.

10. Pacers: Daniel Orton (6-10/269; PF/C; Freshman; Kentucky)
In having screwed themselves by finishing the year on a high note - and relinquishing what would have been the fourth pick in the draft with just three weeks left in the season - the Pacers find themselves in something of a pickle. Should they keep the pick, they will likely target a high-risk/high-reward prospect - which is why they requested a second workout with Daniel Orton. The Pacers are very weak down low, and could use someone to protect Danny Granger. Kentucky's Daniel Orton might not have played more than 13 minutes per game in college, but he wields his massive frame with uncommon agility, has a high basketball IQ for someone so young, and has the potential to become a dominant defensive big man.

11. Hornets: Patrick Patterson (6-9/240; PF; Junior; Kentucky)
David West only has one year left on his contract, and drafting a more offensive-minded big man makes sense considering Emeka Okafor will never be a reliable option in the post. The Hornets are a playoff team when healthy, and Patterson can contribute immediately, and his much-impoved outside shot suggests he could play alongside West and Okafor, if not as a starter.

12. Grizzlies: Ekpe Udoh (6-10/237; PF/C; Junior; Baylor)
The impending loss of Zach Randolph to a correctional facility suggests they will go big, and Udoh is a great fit. Drafting a wing in case Gay departs in free agency would make sense, but both Sam Young and DeMarre Carroll had very promising rookie campaigns, and Memphis currently doesn't have anyone who could fill in at the four. Udoh won't be as prolific a post scorer as Randolph, but he's an outstanding defender with great size for the position and could give Marc Gasol more room to grow.

13. Raptors: Avery Bradley (6-3/180; PG/SG; Freshman; Texas)
Rated the #1 recruit of last year's freshman class by ESPN, Bradley is a point guard who played off the ball in college and put up mediocre numbers...but hey, the same can be said about Russell Westbrook and Jrue Holiday! The Raptors are preparing to shake things up in a big way, and they're high on the potential-laden Bradley, who they think could become a building block alongside DeMar DeRozan.


14. Rockets: Gordon Hayward (6-8/211; SG/SF; Sophomore; Butler)
Houston will nab the best available player here, bearing dependable starters at every position on the floor. Gordon Hayward will be competing with Paul George here, and the fact that Hayward was officially invited to the green room suggests that he might just be the more coveted swingman.

15. Bucks: Xavier Henry (6-6/210; SG; Freshman; Kansas)
The formerly mediocre Bucks morphed into one of the best teams in the East after acquiring John Salmons, demonstrating the importance of putting a capable shooting guard on the floor with Jennings. Signing Salmons this off-season will be a priority (assuming he opts out), but in case he should leave, the young yet NBA-ready Henry would be a good insurance policy. They would love to get their hands on Patrick Patterson, a brusing big man to complement Bogut down low, but he will almost certainly be off the board by the time they pick.

16. Timberwolves: Paul George (6-9/214; SG/SF; Sophomore; Fresno State)
Though they'll likely draft Johnson and fill a major need at the swing position, the Wolves could still use a great deal of help on the perimeter. George is a terrific shooter and could potentially fill in at any of three positions on the offensive end if called upon to do so.



17. Bulls: James Anderson (6-6/208; SG; Junior; Oklahoma State)
Rose needs a backcourt mate who can help shoulder his load on offense. Anderson tore the Big 12 to shreds last year, has prototypical size for the shooting guard position in the league, is as NBA-ready as they come, and his picturesque stroke would nicely complement Rose's more bullish style of play.

18. Heat: Cole Aldrich (6-10/236; C; Junior; Kansas) 6-10 centers with remedial athleticism and little offensive polish aren't hot these days, but Aldrich is an all-world defender with a good feel for the game. He's not worth a lottery pick, but could be very valuable for a team like Miami, which could really use a defensive presence on the low block.

19. Celtics: Dominque Jones (6-4/216; SG; Junior; South Florida)
Boston's backcourt could be in complete dissaray very soon; Ray Allen, Tony Allen, Nate Robinson and Marquis Daniels will all become free agents come July 1, so you can be sure Danny Ainge will target a guard. South Florida's Dominique Jones is a perfect fit: He's a tremendous scorer (21.6 ppg in the Big East), a great rebounder for his size (6.1 rpg), and is very unselfish (3.6). For the Celts, he's the definition of a value pick.

20. Spurs: Hassan Whiteside (7-0/227; C; Freshman; Marshall)
Some (myself included) feel Whiteside is worthy of being a top five selection, but concerns about his attitude (he's compared himself to Hakeem Olajuwon), age (he's a 21-year old freshman), and polish on the offensive end have scared some teams away. San Antonio would be a perfect fit, as the extraordinarily talented young 7-footer could learn from the game's most humble future Hall of Famer in Tim Duncan, and could earn playing time right away due to the Spurs lack of depth down low, without being heavily relied upon.

21. Thunder: Damion James (6-7/227; SF; Junior; Texas)
Every young team could use a little toughness, and while James would be just a rookie next year, he's pretty damn tough. One of the most experienced players on the college level last season, James steadily improved as a scorer over the course of his career at Texas, and he might be the best rebounder in this class.

22. Trailblazers: Eric Bledsoe (6-1/192; PG/SG; Freshman; Kentucky)
The prototypical Kevin Pritchard steal. Had Bledsoe stuck around in Lexington for one more year in order to show off his point guard skills he would have easily been a top-10 pick. A lockdown defender with great explosiveness and a superb jumper for a young point guard, Bledsoe would be a great value pick for a team that as of now does not have a true backup point guard.

23. Timberwolves: Elliot Williams (6-4/180; SG; Sophomore; Memphis)
Word is Williams has a promise somewhere in the first round, and it's hard to see him slipping past the Timberwolves. He would be the third shooter they drafted, but then again, this is a team that depended on Corey Brewer to knock down threes.

24. Hawks: Solomon Alabi (7-1/237; C; Sophomore; Florida State)
Al Horford has exceeded most everyone's expectations by becoming an All-Star in his third year in the league, but he is just not a starting center. The Hawks desperately need size down low, and Alabi is a big body capable of blocking shots and snagging boards. He might not be a starter, but he would certainly fill a major need.

25. Grizzlies: Greivis Vasquez (6-6/211; PG/SG; Senior; Maryland)
The ACC Player of the Year warned everyone to be shocked on draft night, and if the four-year Maryland standout's remarkably exciting career has been any indication, we should heed his advice. Projected as a very late second round prospect for much of the year (many thought he wouldn't be drafted), Vasquez, who at 6-6 plays the point guard position as well as anyone in this class not named Wall, is finally getting recognition as being worthy of a first round pick. The Grizzlies want to move O.J. Mayo to the point, or at the very least grab someone to compete with Conley, making the versatile Vasquez a great fit.


26. Thunder: Samardo Samuels (6-8/245; PF; Sophomore; Louisville)
The absence of a reliable post presence is all that's preventing Oklahoma City from wining 60 games. They will likely get their man in free agency, but Samuels could potentially fill that role. The most bewilderingly underrated prospect in the draft, ESPN rated Samuels the #2 recruit in the class of 2008, and he did nothing to disappoint in his two years at Louisville, averaging 15.3 points and 7 rebounds this past season while going up against elite Big East big men night in and night out. He has excellent post moves, soft touch around the basket, and is exceptionally strong. He will be the steal of the night, and for a team like the Thunder, an immediate difference-maker.

27. Nets: Jordan Crawford (6-4/198; SG; Sophomore; Xavier)
The Nets lost 72 games last season because nobody on the team could reliably hit a shot outside 14 feet, plain and simple. They will likely grab a dependable shooter in free agency, but should they fail to reel one in, Xavier's Jordan Crawford is a tremendous scorer who routinely shoots the lights out, and is known to ocassionaly dunk on LeBron James at his basketball camp.

28. Grizzlies: Craig Brackins (6-10/229; PF; Junior; Iowa State)
With their third selection the Grizzlies will no doubt take the best player available, leaving them with Iowa State's Craig Brackins. At 6-10 Brackins can play both forward positions, and he's one of the best scorers to be had in this entire class (he dropped 42 on Cole Aldrich and Kansas as a sophomore).

29. Magic: Willie Warren (6-4/208; PG/SG; Sophomore; Oklahoma)
Personal issues aside, Warren is a top-10 talent. The Magic have nothing to lose (they don't have room in the rotation for at least two players who could start on a number of teams), so if Warren acts up, they can just bench him. For them, the risk is absolutely worth the potential reward. Jameer Nelson is the only point guard the Magic have locked up next year, and Warren is a terrific ball-handler with tremendous upside.

30. Wizards: Quincy Pondexter (6-7/215; SF; Senior; Washington)
After they select Wall, the Wizards' execs should be repeatedly reciting one word in their minds when it comes to drafting: Stability. No head cases, no ball hogs, no one-and-dones. Pondexter, the PAC-10 Player of the Year, is ready to contribute immediately, can play either forward position, is a terrific scorer (19.3 ppg on 52.8% shooting), but most importantly, has four years of college ball under his belt and has carries not the slightest bit of baggage.

31. Nets: Armon Johnson (6-3/190; PG; Junior; Nevada)

32. Thunder: Lance Stephenson (6-6/227; SG/SF; Freshman; Cincinnati)

33. Kings: Gani Lawal (6-9/233; PF; Junior; Georgia Tech)

34. Trailblazers: Larry Sanders (6-10/222; PF/C; Junior; Virginia Commonwealth)

35. Wizards: Trevor Booker (6-7/236; PF; Senior; Clemson)

36. Pistons: Kevin Seraphin (6-9/263; PF/C; 20 years old; France)

37. Bucks: Luke Harangody (6-7/240; PF; Senior; Notre Dame)

38. Knicks: Jarvis Varnado (6-9/210; PF/C; Senior; Mississippi State)

39. Knicks: Terrico White(6-5/203; PG/SG; Sophomore; Mississippi)

40. Pacers: Mikhail Torrance (6-5/209; PG/SG; Senior; Alabama)

41. Heat: Devin Ebanks (6-8/208; SF; Sophomore; West Virginia)

42. Heat: Stanley Robinson (6-8/213; SF; Senior; Connecticut)

43. Lakers: Tibor Pleiss (7-0/222; C; 20 years old; Ukraine)

44. Darrington Hobson (6-6/204; SG/SF; Junior; New Mexico)

45. Timberwolves: Trailblazers: Lazar Hayward (6-6/226; SF; Senior; Marquette)

46. Suns: Hamady N'Diaye (7-0/223; C; Senior; Rutgers)

47. Bucks: Jerome Jordan (7-1/244; C; Senior; Tulsa)

48. Heat: Sherron Collins (5-11/223; PG; Senior; Kansas)

49. Spurs: Jerome Dyson (6-3/180; Senior; SG; Connecticut)

50. Mavericks: Tiny Gallon (6-10/302; PF/C: Freshman; Oklahoma)

51. Thunder: Ryan Thompson (6-6/210; SG/SF; Senior; Rider)

52. Celtics: Art Parakhouski (6-11/268; C; Senior; Radford)

53. Hawks: Dexter Pittman (6-11/303; C; Senior; Texas)

54. Clippers: Nemanja Bjelica (6-10/223; SF; 22 years old; Serbia)

55. Jazz: Andy Rautins (6-4.192; SG; Senior; Syracuse)

56. Timberwolves: Charles Garcia (6-9/232; SF/PF; Junior; Seattle)

57. Pacers: Elijah Millsap (6-6/210; SF; Junior; Alabama-Birmingham)

58. Lakers: Jon Scheyer (6-6/180; PG/SG; Senior; Duke)

59. Magic: Latavious Williams (6-8/205; PF; 21 years old; NBDL)

60. Suns: Derrick Caracter (6-9/280; PF; Junior; Texas-El Paso)

2010 Draft: NBAnalysis Big Board

A personal ranking of the 30 best prospects in the draft.

1. John Wall (6-4/196; PG; Freshman; Kentucky)
Surefire franchise point guard boasts tremendous speed and athleticism and a high basketball IQ.
2. DeMarcus Cousins (6-11/292; PF/C; Freshman; Kentucky)
All the more valuable due to the lack of dominant centers in the league, some believe Cousins is actually the most talented prospect in this draft class.
3. Evan Turner (6-7/214; PG/SG/SF; Junior; Ohio State)
Played like LeBron on the college level, but needs to develop a more consistent jump shot if he's to fulfill his potential in the pros.
4. Derrick Favors (6-10/245; PF; Freshman; Georgia Tech)
Scout.com's #1 recruit never got going on the offensive end of the floor in his lone year at GT, but his physical gifts are astonishing and he's still just 18.
5. Wesley Johnson (6-7/206; SG/SF; Junior; Syracuse)
Doesn't dominate, but is an elite-level shooter with tremendous length, quickness, great defensive instincts and jump-out-the-gym athleticism.
6. Greg Monroe (6-11/247; PF/C; Sophomore; Georgetown)
Rarely took over games, but has great post moves with soft touch around the basket, possesses a high basketball IQ and is a great passer for his size.
7. Hassan Whiteside (7-0/227; C; Freshman; Marshall)
A legit 7-feet with an inhuman 7-7 wingspan, Whiteside averaged 5.4 blocks (8.3 per 40 minutes) as a freshman, and his offensive game is improving.
8. Luke Babbitt (6-9/218; SF; Junior; Nevada)
Averaged 21.9 ppg on Nash-like shooting percentages (50%FG/41.6%3PT/91.7%FT), and tested as one of the best athletes. What's not to love?
9. Al-Farouq Aminu (6-8/216; SF; Sophomore; Wake Forest)
Athletic swingman can score in a variety of ways and rebounds like a maniac. Made a great decision to return to school for his sophomore year.
10. Ekpe Udoh (6-10/237; PF/C; Junior; Baylor)
Combo big man with awesome length averaged 3.7 blocks for an Elite 8 team, has great handles for his size and can consistently knock down jumpers.
11. Ed Davis (6-10/227; PF; Sophomore; North Carolina)
Efficient post-scorer (57.8%) and shot-blocker (2.7 per game) relied a great deal on his athleticism and length in college. Game needs just a little polish.
12. James Anderson (6-6/210; SG; Junior; Oklahoma State)
Though sort of one-dimensional, his outstanding scoring ability allowed him to dominate the Big 12, often looking like an NBA player out on the floor.
13. Patrick Patterson (6-9/240; PF; Junior; Kentucky)
Generally viewed as the safest pick in the draft due to his strength, tenacity, well-rounded offensive repetoire and experience in three years at Kentucky.
14. Xavier Henry (6-6/210; SG/SF; Kansas; Freshman)
Despite still being a teenager, many scouts believe Henry has most NBA-ready body of any prospect to go along with his mature offensive game.
15. Eric Bledsoe (6-1/192; PG; Freshman; Kentucky)
Not yet a proven point guard, but he's incredibly strong, a lockdown defender, and can really shoot (hit 8 three-pointers in a tourney game.)
16. Paul George (6-9/214; SG/SF; Sophomore; Fresno State)
Beautiful shooting stroke allows him to play like a shooting guard, and though he's unproven against major talent scouts have likened him to Rudy Gay.
17. Dominique Jones (6-4/216; SG; Junior; South Florida)
Stuffed the stat sheet at USF, averaging 21.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists, and possesses great length to compensate for his size.
18. Daniel Orton (6-10/269; PF/C; Freshman; Kentucky)
Smart young center with a tremendous frame looks to inject some bruising energy into a league overpopulated with soft big men.
19. Gordon Hayward (6-8/211; SG/SF; Sophomore; Butler)
Has the size to play either the 2 or 3 and a refined offensive game but one wonders whether he can do anything besides score.
20. Armon Johnson (6-3/195; PG; Junior; Nevada)
A jewel in the weakest point guard draft in memory, Johnson tested as arguably the best athlete at the combine, but needs to prove he can run a team.
21. Cole Aldrich (6-10/236; PF/C; Junior; Kansas)
While he's an all-world defender, one wonders how effective a relatively unathletic 6-10 center with little offensive game can be in the NBA.
22. Elliot williams (6-4/180; SG; Sophomore; Memphis)
Athletic combo guard can light it up, bring the ball up the floor, organize the offense, and is one of the premier man-to-man defenders in this class.
23. Damion James (6-7/227; SF/PF; Senior; Texas)
Much like Patterson, the experiened Texas product is strong and athletic, relentless on both ends of the floor, and has an improving mid-range game.
24. Willie Warren (6-4/208; PG/SG; Sophomore; Oklahoma)
The oft-troubled combo guard is arguably a top 10 talent, and will have to land in a position where he can be mentored and strictly disciplined.
25. Jordan Crawford (6-4/198; SG; Sohpomore; Xavier)
Famously dunked on LeBron at his camp last summer, but more importantly is a veritable scoring machine, averaging 20.5 points as a sophomore.
26. Craig Brackins (6-10/229; PF; Junior; Iowa State)
Dropped 42 on Cole Aldrich and Kansas as a sophomore and has a great inside-outside game but can be too passive and needs some extra weight.
27. Jarvis Varnado (6-10/210; PF/C; Senior; Mississippi State)
The best shot-blocker in NCAA history will carve a niche as a dynamite defensive stopper for one lucky team.
28. Trevor Booker (6-7/236; PF; Senior; Clemson)
Much like Paul Millsap, Bookeer is an undersized but uncommonly strong and athletic power forward who can score creatively in the post.
29. Terrico White (6-5/203; PG/SG; Sophomore; Mississippi)
White is for some reason listed as a point guard despite averaging 1.5 assists, but had the best vertical at the combine and has great upside.
30. Lance Stephenson (6-6/227; SG/SF; Freshman; Cincinnati)
One of the most physically gifted players in this class, Stephenson left college too early but his combination of strength, athleticism and youth is intriguing.

Post-Lottery Mock Draft

The first of many.


1. Wizards: John Wall (6-4/195; PG; Freshman; Kentucky)
A very easy choice that Washington won't ever be chastised for making. Seeing how he meshes with Gilbert Arenas in the backcourt will be interesting, as Agent Zero can now comfortably move to the off-guard spot, where he has less responsibility. Wall will also be key in luring free agents to D.C., which might prove to be a major twist in the impending free agency extravaganza.


2. 76ers: Evan Turner (6-7/210; SG/SF; Junior; Ohio State)
A perfect fit. With more than $28 million owed to Elton Brand and Samuel Dalembert next year, and Marreese Speights proving to be a promising young talent, the Sixers had been prepared to be forced to draft a big man with what was supposed to be the 6th pick...only to have Naismith Trophy winner Evan Turner - the best shooting guard in the draft - fall right into their lap and fill the only hole in their lineup.


3. Nets: DeMarcus Cousins (6-11/270; PF/C; Freshman; Kentucky)
Need I enumerate the reasons why Cousins, and not Favors, is the pick here? Probably, so here goes.
- The Nets don't want to win 12 games again. That's a virtual impossibility based on the cap space they have, but Favors wouldn't be able to contribute much next season, or even the season after. Cousins averaged 25.7 points, 16.7 rebounds and 3 blocks per 40 minutes for an Elite 8 team.
- The Lakers' domination has demonstrated what a team can do when they have two giants capable over dominating in the post on both ends. Cousins has 1-2 inches and 40 pounds on Favors.
- Not only is Cosuins capable of dominating, but he he really wants to every time he steps on the floor. Favors was criticized throughout the year for sleepwalking and being too passive. Cousins wants the ball on every possession and knows what to do when he gets it. He tears down boards and swats shots with enthusiasm. He's extremely passionate, and brings a winning attitude.
New Jersey was likely devastated when they lost the top pick, but Cousins might turn out to be an even better fit than Wall.


4. Timberwolves: Wesley Johnson (6-7/205; SF; Junior; Syracuse)
This is a relatively easy pick that many are making too much of a fuss about. It's simple. The Timberwolves have two double-double machines who both stand 6-10/260, and neither is older than 25. They don't need Favors or Cousins, should one of them slip. The Wolves made just 5 threes per game last year, and Wesley Johnson is a lights-out shooter with the ability to defend three positions. He's their man.


5. Kings: Al-Farouq Aminu (6-9/215; SF; Sophomore; Wake Forest)
With three talented young big men (Carl Landry, Jason Thompson and Spencer Hawes), I think the Kings will either have to trade one of their young centers or reach for a swingman. Aminu is not the jump-shooter the Kings need to ease Tyreke Evans' offensive load, but he would add much-needed toughness to a relatively frail lineup while filling a major gap in the starting lineup.


6. Warriors: Derrick Favors (6-10/245; PF; Freshman; Georgia Tech)
Here's the perfect fit for Favors. Due to the inconsistent play of past lottery picks Anthony Randolph and Brandan Wright, the Warriors have a big hole at the 4. Favors is stronger than both those guys, is a better defender, and would fit perfectly in Don Nelson's uptempo offense.


7. Pistons: Cole Aldrich (6-11/245; PF/C; Kansas)
The Pistons have plenty of guys who can score, and are dying for a true center (shockingly, Kwame Brown was not the answer). Aldrich is a fantastic shot-blocker and rebounder with NBA length and invaluable experience, and could start immediately.


8. Clippers: Ed Davis (6-10/225; PF; Sophomore; North Carolina)
They'll pray Aminu falls to them, as they have a gigantic hole at the 3, but if he should be selected by the time they're on the clock they will likely look for the forward most compatible with Blake Griffin and Chris Kaman. Because center DeAndre Jordan has been surprisingly productive off the bench, a power forward would be the best fit, and Davis is athletic enough to potentially play with their franchise big men. A top-notch shot-blocker and rebounder, Davis would add needed intensity to a lineup that consists mainly of scorers who don't care to do much else. Gordon Hayward could be an upset pick here.


9. Jazz: Greg Monroe (6-11/247; PF/C; Sophomore; Georgetown)
Suffering elimination at the hands of the Lakers for the third year in a row should finally impress upon the Jazz the importance of legitimate size in the post. A terrific passer with refined post moves and an impressive basketball IQ, Monroe would be a perfect fit in Jerry Sloan's system.


10. Pacers: Ekpe Udoh (6-10/240; PF/C; Junior; Baylor)
Lacking athleticism and toughness down low since the days of Antonio and Dale Davis, Udoh's awesome length and shot-blocking ability (3.7 per game) should certainly pique the Pacers' interest.


11. Hornets: Hassan Whiteside (7-0/235; C; Freshman; Marshall)
The Hornets lack depth down low, and are terrible at defending the paint. Hassan Whiteside, the 7-footer whom NBADraft.net predicted would be the first pick in the 2011 draft earlier this year, averaged 5.4 blocks as a freshman. David West has just one year left on his contract, making the prospect of adding a potentially dominant big man such as Whiteside even more appealing.


12. Grizzlies: Gordon Hayward (6-8/200; SF/PF; Butler)
Losing Rudy Gay is a very real possibility at this point for Memphis, who last year had the league's second lowest payroll. Hayward would be a decent replacement, and even if Gay should remain put, the kid who almost beat Duke with a half-court shot at the buzzer would immediately become their top scoring option of the bench.


13. Raptors: Daniel Orton (6-10/255; PF/C; Freshman; Kentucky)
The Raptors drafting a big man is a virtual certainty at this point. Orton boasts tremendous size and an NBA-ready physique, and his defensive tenacity would complement Andrea Bargnani's scoring prowess nicely.


14. Rockets: Donatas Motiejunas (7-0/215; PF; Lithuania)
The Rockets will go for the best player available, and Motiejunas simply has too much potential to pass up. If Yao doesn't return in time he could be very valuable.

15. Bucks: Patrick Patterson (6-9/235; PF; Kentucky; Junior)
Milwaukee is terribly thin down low, and Andrew Bogut is the only big man who's remotely intimidating. Patterson is tough, NBA-ready, and has a very refined offensive game that he didn't get to flash too frequently playing for an extremely talented Kentucky team.

16. Timberwolves: James Anderson (6-6/210; SG; Junior; Oklahoma State)
The Wolves will take the best available player here in Oklahoma State's James Anderson, who dominated the Big 12 and possesses all the tools necessary to succeed in the pros.

17. Bulls: Paul George (6-8/210; SG/SF; Sophomore; Fresno State)
After losing Ben Gordon, and then John Salmons, Chicago has recognized the importance of landing a reliable backcourt companion for Derrick Rose. They are apparently enamored of George, a top-shelf athlete with a picturesque jumper.

18. Heat: Luke Babbitt (6-9/225; SF/PF; Sophomore; Nevada)
The Heat have needs at nearly every position, so it's hard to imagine them zeroing in on any particular one when they know they likely won't be able to find an immediate starter this late. Babbit averaged 21.9 points in 37 minutes per game for Nevada, and on Nash-like shooting percentages, hitting 50% of his shots, 41.6% of his threes, and 91.7% of his free throws.

19. Celtics: Avery Bradley (6-2/180; PG/SG; Freshman; Texas)
The absence of a backup point guard, combined with the possiblity of Ray Allen not re-signing, means it's time to go combo guard hunting. I think Willie Warren would thrive with some veterans keeping him in line, but they're more likely to go for Bradley, the #1 rated recruit in the 2009 class (yes, higher than Wall) according to ESPN, who despite playing off the ball at Texas can handle the point and has proven to be a lockdown defender.

20. Spurs: Xavier Henry (6-6/220; SG; Freshman; Kansas)
No way Henry falls any further. A standout as a freshman, and one of the most NBA-ready guards regardless of age, Henry would inject a ton of energy into an aging rotation.

21. Thunder: Damion James (6-7/225; SF; Senior; Texas)
Tough on both ends of the floor while boasting superior athleticism and a rapidly improving offensive game, James could be the versatile sub Oklahoma City needs.

22. Trailblazers: Eric Bledsoe (6-1/190; PG; Freshman; Kentucky)
Andre Miller is getting old, and doesn't even have a backup at this point. Bledsoe, who would have been a top 10 pick had he stayed at Kentucky another year, is the typical Prtichard steal.

23. Timberwolves: Larry Sanders (6-11/235; PF/C; Junior; Virginia Commonwealth)
It's hard to imagine the T-Wolves drafting three players again, but should they keep them all, Sanders would provide some shot-blocking assistance and a spark off the bench.

24. Hawks: Solomon Alabi (7-1/251; C; Junior; Florida State)
In their series against the Magic in which they were swept and lost by an average of 25.3 points, the Hawks were seriously overmatched down low, forcing Dwight Howard to miss just four shots in the entire series. The threat of Josh Smith coming from the weak side to occasionally block a shot is no longer sufficient. Alabi has steadily improved over the course of his career at FSU, and really knows how to wield his huge frame on the defensive end.

25. Grizzlies: Elliot Williams (6-4/180; SG; Sophomore; Memphis)
The Grizzlies are getting ready to shake up their backcourt, and have little depth at both guard spots. Williams, who in two years in college played under Coach K and Coach Cal, is capable of scoring consistently in the NBA right now and could bring the ball up the floor once in a while.

26. Thunder: Jerome Jordan (7-0/251; C; Senior; Tulsa)
In need of a starting center, the Thunder will likely wait until the off-season to get their man, but are so stacked that they can afford to take a chance on a prospect like Jordan whose length, athleticism, and willingness to work on every aspect of his game suggest that he could one day become not just a starter, but a star.

27. Nets: Dominique Jones (6-4/205; SG; Junior; South Florida)
You want to know why the Nets won so few games last season? Simple. Nobody could consistently hit an open jumper. Enter Dominique Jones, as lethal a scorer as any in college basketball last year (he dropped 46 on Providence, 37 on Pitt, and 30 on Syracuse), who could erase the Nets' nightmares of Keyon Dooling continuously missing wide-open shots from 11 feet out.

28. Grizzlies: Kevin Seraphin (6-9/258; PF/C; France)
With so little room on the roster, Memphis will likely find someone they can stock overseas for a couple years. The raw but promising Seraphin would still be in good position if encouraged to stick it out in his native France for a bit longer.

29. Magic: Willie Warren (6-4/199; PG/SG; Sophomore; Oklahoma)
The Magic will almost certainly take a guard with this pick, and I think they would be foolish to pass on Willie Warren. The Oklahoma combo guard had a terribly rough sophomore campaign, but a team with so little to lose should only see the positives in a player with superstar potential. Look, this team is so deep that Brandon Bass and Ryan Anderson, forwards who could start on a lot of teams, never even see the court, so if worst comes to worst, they wouldn't have to feel bad about not playing Warren should he screw up again.

30. Wizards: Luke Harangody (6-7/240; PF; Senior; Clemson)
They're set at both guard spots with Wall and Arenas, and filling out the front line will be a real challenge. Seeing how Al Thornton rarely wants to pass, Andray Blatche rarely wants to play defense, and JaVale McGee struggles to maintain his focus at times, they'll want sometime who's dedicated, who gives his all every single possession. Harangody won't come close to replicating the stats he posted in college, but he's averaged at least 20 points in each of his last three seasons and plays like his life depends on every rebound.