This topic contains 12 replies, has 6 voices, and was last updated by AvatarAvatar bloodshy 10 years, 9 months ago.

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  • #50152
    AvatarAvatar
    the27guy
    Participant

    I’m poor, and starving, and helpless…. and need your help. If you post… all of your wildest dreams will come true, and everyone will like you… and stuff.

    And if it’s already been posted, I can’t find it.

    Thank in advance,

    The guy who you just negged.

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  • #799826
    AvatarAvatar
    thebomber
    Participant

    Noel
    Oladipo
    Porter
    Bennet
    Mclemore
    Len
    MCW
    Burke
    KCP
    Mccollum
    zeller
    adams
    Karasev
    BEBE
    LArkin
    Muhammad
    Plumlee
    Antetokoumpo
    Bullock
    Franklin
    Schroeder
    Snell
    Olynyk
    Mitchell
    Ledo
    Gobert
    Hardaway jr
    Dieng
    Abrines
    Rice Jr

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  • #799892
    AvatarAvatar
    thebomber
    Participant

    Noel
    Oladipo
    Porter
    Bennet
    Mclemore
    Len
    MCW
    Burke
    KCP
    Mccollum
    zeller
    adams
    Karasev
    BEBE
    LArkin
    Muhammad
    Plumlee
    Antetokoumpo
    Bullock
    Franklin
    Schroeder
    Snell
    Olynyk
    Mitchell
    Ledo
    Gobert
    Hardaway jr
    Dieng
    Abrines
    Rice Jr

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  • #799848
    AvatarAvatar
    crater77
    Participant

    Love this for the Jazz.

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    • #799860
      AvatarAvatar
      bloodshy
      Participant

      Larkin + Olynyk are great offensive picks. Both are refined polished players. However, both have huge physical limitations that will likely cause them to be regularly exploited on D. If the Jazz are going to turn the ship around, D is where they need to begin. The top 4 teams in the league this year were all in the top 5 defensively. The Jazz were 23rd. Larkin and/or Olynyk will not fix the problem on D. I wanted players that at least have a chance to be good on both ends of the floor.

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      • #799866
        AvatarAvatar
        Bigstinky34
        Participant

        According to this it looks like Bebe is going to Utah and Larkin is going to Milwaukee at 15…

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        • #799903
          AvatarAvatar
          bloodshy
          Participant

          This improves it substantially. I’m not a huge fan of Nog @ 14, but Schroeder is a solid value (and good long-term fit) at 21. I’d be pleased w/that outcome.

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        • #799968
          AvatarAvatar
          bloodshy
          Participant

          This improves it substantially. I’m not a huge fan of Nog @ 14, but Schroeder is a solid value (and good long-term fit) at 21. I’d be pleased w/that outcome.

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      • #799932
        AvatarAvatar
        Bigstinky34
        Participant

        According to this it looks like Bebe is going to Utah and Larkin is going to Milwaukee at 15…

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    • #799926
      AvatarAvatar
      bloodshy
      Participant

      Larkin + Olynyk are great offensive picks. Both are refined polished players. However, both have huge physical limitations that will likely cause them to be regularly exploited on D. If the Jazz are going to turn the ship around, D is where they need to begin. The top 4 teams in the league this year were all in the top 5 defensively. The Jazz were 23rd. Larkin and/or Olynyk will not fix the problem on D. I wanted players that at least have a chance to be good on both ends of the floor.

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  • #799914
    AvatarAvatar
    crater77
    Participant

    Love this for the Jazz.

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  • #799868
    AvatarAvatar
    phila9012
    Participant

    1Nerlens NoelCleveland Cavaliers
    COLLEGE: KentuckyAGE: 18HT: 7-0WT: 206POS: C
    Analysis: The Cavs have been talking to teams for weeks about a trade, but they are finding a limited market and at this point are likely to keep the pick.

    Sources in Cleveland strongly suggest that the Cavs have yet to make their decision. Anthony Bennett, Ben McLemore, Victor Oladipo, Otto Porter, Alex Len and Noel all have visits and/or workouts scheduled in Cleveland this week. Noel is scheduled to visit the team Thursday and has a chance to seal the deal as the No. 1 pick if he performs well.

    Noel remains on top because he fits the profile of a player the Cavs prefer to draft — the player with the most long-term upside. That’s why they picked Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters at No. 4 the past couple of years and why Noel remains the favorite. Sources say Noel’s strongest competition right now is Len, whom some in the organization favor because he, too, has size and defensive ability, but he’s less raw and should be cleared to play much sooner than Noel.

    PLAYER CARD
    2Victor OladipoOrlando Magic
    COLLEGE: IndianaAGE: 20HT: 6-4WT: 213POS: SG

    Analysis: The Magic are in the hunt for Eric Bledsoe. If they can address their point guard issue via trade, they’re free to take the best player available at this spot. Indiana’s Victor Oladipo and KU’s Ben McLemore are widely seen as the two best fits in Orlando. While McLemore might have more pure upside, I continue to hear that Oladipo has the upper hand. McLemore was in Orlando last week, but according to multiple accounts, his workout wasn’t terrific. Noel is a strong possibility, too, if he doesn’t go No. 1 to the Cavs.

    PLAYER CARD
    3Otto PorterWashington Wizards
    COLLEGE: GeorgetownAGE: 20HT: 6-9WT: 198POS: SF
    Analysis: The Wizards continue to be in a strong position at No. 3. The two players they really like — Porter and UNLV’s Anthony Bennett — are both on the board here. Both are getting looks from the Cavs, but neither is the favorite at this point. There continues to be a pretty strong debate on this one inside the front office, and it might come down to risk aversion for the Wizards. Do they go with more of a sure thing (Porter) or gamble on the guy with more upside (Bennett)?

    PLAYER CARD

    4Anthony BennettCharlotte Bobcats
    COLLEGE: UNLVAGE: 20HT: 6-8WT: 240POS: PF

    Analysis: This one sounds like it’s coming down to a showdown between Bennett and Alex Len. Either player would give Charlotte’s front line a much-needed scoring boost. The Bobcats have Bismack Biyombo as a defensive presence but not a lot else. Also, don’t totally write off Cody Zeller here. I hear he’s a dark horse.

    PLAYER CARD
    5Ben McLemorePhoenix Suns
    COLLEGE: KansasAGE: 20HT: 6-5WT: 189POS: SG

    Analysis: McLemore remains in the top 5, but I’m starting to have my doubts. I love the talent. But his lack of preparation for the draft is hurting him. Multiple sources told me that his workout in Phoenix was not impressive; he wasn’t in shape, and he struggled to keep up in the workout. I heard similar things in Orlando. McLemore is in a tug-of-war right now between adviser Rodney Blackstock and his agency Rivals. It’s kept McLemore out of the gym and for the most part, out of workouts. How much will all of this affect the draft stock? I’m told teams are worried. But how worried? Enough for one of the most talented players in the draft to slide further? If the Suns pass on McLemore, both C.J. McCollum and Michael Carter-Williams are possibilities here.

    PLAYER CARD
    6Alex LenNew Orleans Pelicans
    COLLEGE: MarylandAGE: 19HT: 7-1WT: 225POS: C

    Analysis: Len could go as high as No. 1 to the Cavs or No. 4 to the Bobcats, but I doubt he gets past the Pelicans at No. 6. Pairing him on the floor with Anthony Davis makes for a terrific front line. Small forward and point guard are the other two directions in which the Pelicans could go.

    They love Porter, but it’s doubtful he’ll still be there at No. 6, and after Dario Saric withdrew from the draft on Monday, there aren’t any other small forwards to be really excited about. They like Trey Burke and Michael Carter-Williams, but sources continue to say they believe Austin Rivers still can make the transition to point guard.

    PLAYER CARD
    7Michael Carter-WilliamsSacramento Kings
    COLLEGE: SyracuseAGE: 21HT: 6-6WT: 184POS: PG

    Analysis: The good news: The Kings finally have a general manager in Pete D’Alessandro. The bad news: He started on Monday, which is after the Kings had completed workouts with most of the prospects in their range. So, either the Kings drag players back to Sacramento, or new coach Mike Malone and owner Vivek Ranadive will be heavily influencing the call.

    From what I can gather, UCLA forward Shabazz Muhammad had the best workout, though the Kings weren’t particularly high on him prior to that. The team loved Carter-Williams before he came in, but weren’t impressed with his workout. Sounds as if Trey Burke isn’t particularly high on their list, either. Ditto for C.J. McCollum.

    I’m not sure what to make of all that, but here’s the best I can do: One of the biggest reasons the Kings hired D’Alessandro was because of his analytics work. Muhammad looks horrible in virtually every analytics model I’ve seen. Carter-Williams looks good in almost of all of them.

    PLAYER CARD
    8Trey BurkeDetroit Pistons
    COLLEGE: MichiganAGE: 20HT: 6-1WT: 187POS: PG

    Analysis: The Pistons are hoping, for a third year in a row, that one of the top seven players on the board slides to them on draft night. However, it the draft holds true to form, look for them to try to address their backcourt at No. 8. The team believes Brandon Knight is more suited to play the 2 and would like to bring in a “pure” point guard to run the team. While Burke is a little undersized, he’s highly skilled as both a shooter and a penetrator and has great leadership capabilities. C.J. McCollum and Cody Zeller also are possibilities here, especially if both Burke and Carter-Williams are off the board.

    PLAYER CARD
    9Kentavious Caldwell-PopeMinnesota Timberwolves
    COLLEGE: GeorgiaAGE: 20HT: 6-6WT: 204POS: SG

    Analysis: It sounds as if the Timberwolves have narrowed things down to Caldwell-Pope and Shabazz Muhammad. Although Muhammad is more of a natural scorer, it’s hard to believe the Wolves will pass on Caldwell-Pope’s shooting abilities. The team really needs shooters and Caldwell-Pope has a chance to be one of the two or three best shooters in the draft.

    PLAYER CARD
    10C.J. McCollumPortland Trail Blazers
    COLLEGE: LehighAGE: 21HT: 6-3WT: 197POS: PG

    Analysis: The Blazers also are in need of a shooter and would have strong interest in Caldwell-Pope if he doesn’t go at No. 9. McCollum is another good option. He’s a bit undersized to play the 2 (Damian Lillard has the point guard spot on lockdown), but his shooting and driving ability should complement Lillard nicely. The Blazers also are looking at bigs, and Pittsburgh’s Steven Adams looks like a potential fit here.

    PLAYER CARD
    11Cody ZellerPhiladelphia 76ers
    COLLEGE: IndianaAGE: 20HT: 7-0WT: 230POS: C

    Analysis: The 76ers are looking for size. With Andrew Bynum a free agent, Spencer Hawes and Arnett Moultrie are the closest things they have to bigs. Zeller is more of a 4 than a 5, but his athletic ability, combined with his shooting stroke, should allow them to stretch the floor. Adams, Duke’s Mason Plumlee and Brazil’s Lucas Nogueira are also possibilities in Philly.

    PLAYER CARD
    12Steven AdamsOklahoma City Thunder via Toronto Raptors
    COLLEGE: PittsburghAGE: 19HT: 7-0WT: 255POS: C

    Analysis: The Thunder are in win-now mode, but it’s unlikely whomever they draft here will be of much help next season. They have swung and missed a few times with big guys in the draft (Cole Aldrich and Byron Mullens) but could do it again for Adams. While he’s miles away from contributing offensively, defensively he already has the body and instincts to be a good rebounder and shot-blocker. With time, much more might come. Russia’s Sergey Karasev also is a strong possibility here.

    PLAYER CARD
    13Sergey KarasevDallas Mavericks
    COUNTRY: RussiaAGE: 19HT: 6-7WT: 197POS: SF

    Analysis: The Mavericks continue to lean heavily toward trading the pick (if they haven’t already). Multiple sources say it’s unlikely the Mavs will be selecting for themselves when they make this pick on draft night. However, if they do keep the pick, selecting an international player that the Mavs can stash in Europe offers the cap flexibility Dallas is seeking. With their favorite, Dario Saric, out of the draft, a player such as Karasev seems like a great fit. His ability to shoot and his experience playing at a high level in Russia put him ahead of the curve. He’d be a great fit in Dallas whenever he comes over (either this season or next), and at this point his draft stock looks high enough to justify the pick.

    PLAYER CARD
    14Lucas NogueiraUtah Jazz
    COUNTRY: BrazilAGE: 20HT: 6-11WT: 218POS: C
    Analysis: Yes, the Jazz are in the hunt for a point guard. But from what I can gather (and the Jazz are notoriously tight-lipped) the team isn’t in love with any of the point guards who would be left on the board (Shane Larkin and Dennis Schroeder are the two most likely here). They also need bigs (both Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap are free agents this summer) and it looks as if they’re open to using the draft to help address that need, as well. The Jazz have been high on Nogueira for a while, but his performance at the Eurocamp might have sealed the deal for this lithe, long, athletic shot-blocker. I don’t think he’ll be around when they draft again at 21.

    PLAYER CARD
    15Shane LarkinMilwaukee Bucks
    COLLEGE: MiamiAGE: 20HT: 6-0WT: 171POS: PG
    Analysis: With their starting backcourt of Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis both heading into free agency, the Bucks likely will focus on point guard. Larkin and Dennis Schroeder are the two most interesting candidates. Schroeder has more upside, but after dealing with Jennings for the past few years, they might opt for a more traditional guard like Larkin. Murray State’s Isaiah Canaan also has a shot here. His impressive workout turned heads in Milwaukee.

    PLAYER CARD
    16Shabazz MuhammadBoston Celtics
    COLLEGE: UCLAAGE: 20HT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

    Analysis: Muhammad’s stock is all over the place. But then again, so are the Celtics. He could go as high as No. 7 to the Kings or No. 9 to the Wolves or even No. 12 to the Thunder or No. 14 to the Jazz. But if he does slide this far, it’s hard to see Danny Ainge passing on him. There’s just too much talent there, and what the Celtics are going to need — if they really are going into full rebuilding mode — is more talent.

    PLAYER CARD
    17Mason PlumleeAtlanta Hawks
    COLLEGE: DukeAGE: 23HT: 6-10WT: 238POS: PF

    Analysis: The Hawks could use just about everything. Plumlee isn’t a particularly sexy prospect, but he runs the floor very well and is one of the most athletic bigs in the draft. If he rebounds and uses his strength and mobility, he could be a valuable rotation player for the Hawks. Gonzaga’s Kelly Olynyk, San Diego State’s Jamaal Franklin and Michigan’s Tim Hardaway Jr. also are possibilities.

    PLAYER CARD
    18Giannis AntetokounmpoAtlanta Hawks via Houston Rockets
    COUNTRY: GreeceAGE: 18HT: 6-9WT: 215POS: SF

    Analysis: Antetokounmpo turned a lot of heads last week in Italy playing for Greece’s under-20 team. While he still projects as the rawest prospect in the draft, teams were impressed with how he handled himself against stronger competition. The word out of Italy was that there was no way he was getting past the Hawks. He might go higher (the Thunder, Mavericks and Jazz all have interest) but it now looks as if he’s secured a top-20 selection.

    PLAYER CARD
    19Reggie BullockCleveland Cavaliers via Los Angeles Lakers
    COLLEGE: North CarolinaAGE: 22HT: 6-7WT: 200POS: SF

    Analysis: If the Cavs grab Noel at No. 1, look for them to add a small forward or shooter with the second first-round pick. They would love to get their hands on Karasev, but I’m told they believe Bullock wouldn’t be a bad consolation prize. Bullock shot 44 percent from 3-point range this season and has the size to play both wing positions.

    PLAYER CARD
    20Jamaal FranklinChicago Bulls
    COLLEGE: San Diego St.AGE: 21HT: 6-5WT: 191POS: SG

    Analysis: He’s had just one workout, with the Knicks, though that’s about to change. The Bulls really need a shooter, and that isn’t exactly Franklin’s forté. However, his jumper has improved considerably. What coach Tom Thibodeau will love immediately is Franklin’s defensive presence on the floor. This is one of the toughest players in the draft and a kid who should contribute immediately — a smaller version of Kawhi Leonard. Tim Hardaway Jr. also is a strong possibility here.

    PLAYER CARD
    21Dennis SchroederUtah Jazz
    COUNTRY: GermanyAGE: 19HT: 6-2WT: 165POS: PG

    Analysis: The Jazz do need a point guard, and after a series of shaky workouts, I think there’s a good chance Schroeder will be here when they draft at No. 21. The bigger question — is Schroeder the point guard the Jazz would draft? The team also likes Murray State’s Isaiah Canaan — a lot. Do the Jazz go for upside or a proven guard with a little lower ceiling? Obviously, if the Jazz pass on Nogueira earlier, he’d be in play here.

    PLAYER CARD
    22Tony SnellBrooklyn Nets
    COLLEGE: New MexicoAGE: 21HT: 6-7WT: 198POS: SG

    Analysis: Snell quietly is flying up the draft boards after a series of terrific workouts. He’s in play now with Chicago, Utah, Brooklyn and Indiana. The appeal? He’s a super athletic wing with NBA length and defensive abilities. He was very inconsistent at New Mexico, but I’m told numerous NBA teams love the talent. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Louisville’s Gorgui Dieng also are in play here.

    PLAYER CARD
    23Kelly OlynykIndiana Pacers
    COLLEGE: GonzagaAGE: 22HT: 7-0WT: 234POS: PF

    Analysis: The Pacers are hoping someone in the top 15 or 20 on our Big Board slides to them. In this scenario, their wish is granted. Olynyk is getting looks as high as the 76ers at No. 11, the Jazz at No. 14, the Celtics at No. 16. But if he slides past those teams, he’d be welcomed with open arms in Indy. The team needs depth everywhere, and Olynyk’s ability to play a stretch 4 would offer another weapon off the bench. Tony Snell, Isaiah Canaan and Virginia Tech’s Erick Green also are in the mix here.

    PLAYER CARD
    24Tony MitchellNew York Knicks
    SCHOOL: North TexasAGE: 21HT: 6-8WT: 220POS: SF

    Analysis: I continue to hear the Knicks have a strong affinity for Mitchell. He has all of the physical tools to succeed in the NBA — strength, length, elite athletic ability. And the Knicks really need help on the front line. I also hear South Dakota State’s Nate Wolters is a sleeper here.

    PLAYER CARD
    25Ricky LedoLos Angeles Clippers
    COLLEGE: ProvidenceAGE: 23HT: 6-6WT: 197POS: SG

    Analysis: Ledo continues to draw praise from every team for which he works out. The Clippers appear to be especially high on him. I think Ledo could end up going higher (maybe even much higher) on draft night. A few teams in the late lottery and mid-first round are taking a look. But if he lands here, it’s a steal for the Clippers, who have a track record of taking young players later in the draft and developing them.

    PLAYER CARD
    26Rudy GobertMinnesota Timberwolves via Memphis Grizzlies
    COUNTRY: FranceAGE: 20HT: 7-2WT: 238POS: PF

    Analysis: The Timberwolves will need depth in the middle, and while Gobert has been sliding steadily on draft boards the past few weeks, at this point in the draft he is a steal. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Cal’s Allen Crabbe also are possibilities here.

    PLAYER CARD
    27Tim Hardaway Jr.Denver Nuggets
    COLLEGE: MichiganAGE: 21HT: 6-6WT: 199POS: SG

    Analysis: The Nuggets are in danger of losing Andre Iguodala this summer after he opted to become a free agent. While Hardaway is a far cry from Iguodala, he’s one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft and could step in immediately and along with Evan Fournier, help with some of the minutes used by Iggy.

    PLAYER CARD
    28Gorgui DiengSan Antonio Spurs
    COLLEGE: LouisvilleAGE: 23HT: 6-11WT: 230POS: C

    Analysis: Injury concerns for Dieng (ankle and knee) have hurt his stock a bit, and he’s slowly sliding into the 20s. Teams like him, but given his age, injuries matter. That shouldn’t stop the Spurs from taking him here. They have big needs on the front line and Dieng is one of the more NBA-ready big men in the draft.

    PLAYER CARD
    29Alex AbrinesOklahoma City Thunder
    COUNTRY: SpainAGE: 20HT: 6-5WT: 195POS: SG

    Analysis: Again, the Thunder have a ton of flexibility right now, and with two first-round picks they don’t need a player to come over immediately. Abrines is an interesting player. He’s playing limited minutes for one of the top teams in Europe and has significant upside. The team can afford to be patient and stash him in Europe for a year or two until he’s ready to come in and contribute.

    PLAYER CARD
    30Glen Rice Jr.Phoenix Suns
    COLLEGE: Georgia TechAGE: 22HT: 6-6WT: 211POS: SG

    Analysis: If the Suns get their 2-guard with their first pick, don’t be surprised if Phoenix tries to add another wing who can shoot the ball with its second first-rounder. Rice dominated the D-League last season and probably is big enough to spend time at the 3. He’s also one of the two or three most NBA-ready prospects in the draft.

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  • #799934
    AvatarAvatar
    phila9012
    Participant

    1Nerlens NoelCleveland Cavaliers
    COLLEGE: KentuckyAGE: 18HT: 7-0WT: 206POS: C
    Analysis: The Cavs have been talking to teams for weeks about a trade, but they are finding a limited market and at this point are likely to keep the pick.

    Sources in Cleveland strongly suggest that the Cavs have yet to make their decision. Anthony Bennett, Ben McLemore, Victor Oladipo, Otto Porter, Alex Len and Noel all have visits and/or workouts scheduled in Cleveland this week. Noel is scheduled to visit the team Thursday and has a chance to seal the deal as the No. 1 pick if he performs well.

    Noel remains on top because he fits the profile of a player the Cavs prefer to draft — the player with the most long-term upside. That’s why they picked Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters at No. 4 the past couple of years and why Noel remains the favorite. Sources say Noel’s strongest competition right now is Len, whom some in the organization favor because he, too, has size and defensive ability, but he’s less raw and should be cleared to play much sooner than Noel.

    PLAYER CARD
    2Victor OladipoOrlando Magic
    COLLEGE: IndianaAGE: 20HT: 6-4WT: 213POS: SG

    Analysis: The Magic are in the hunt for Eric Bledsoe. If they can address their point guard issue via trade, they’re free to take the best player available at this spot. Indiana’s Victor Oladipo and KU’s Ben McLemore are widely seen as the two best fits in Orlando. While McLemore might have more pure upside, I continue to hear that Oladipo has the upper hand. McLemore was in Orlando last week, but according to multiple accounts, his workout wasn’t terrific. Noel is a strong possibility, too, if he doesn’t go No. 1 to the Cavs.

    PLAYER CARD
    3Otto PorterWashington Wizards
    COLLEGE: GeorgetownAGE: 20HT: 6-9WT: 198POS: SF
    Analysis: The Wizards continue to be in a strong position at No. 3. The two players they really like — Porter and UNLV’s Anthony Bennett — are both on the board here. Both are getting looks from the Cavs, but neither is the favorite at this point. There continues to be a pretty strong debate on this one inside the front office, and it might come down to risk aversion for the Wizards. Do they go with more of a sure thing (Porter) or gamble on the guy with more upside (Bennett)?

    PLAYER CARD

    4Anthony BennettCharlotte Bobcats
    COLLEGE: UNLVAGE: 20HT: 6-8WT: 240POS: PF

    Analysis: This one sounds like it’s coming down to a showdown between Bennett and Alex Len. Either player would give Charlotte’s front line a much-needed scoring boost. The Bobcats have Bismack Biyombo as a defensive presence but not a lot else. Also, don’t totally write off Cody Zeller here. I hear he’s a dark horse.

    PLAYER CARD
    5Ben McLemorePhoenix Suns
    COLLEGE: KansasAGE: 20HT: 6-5WT: 189POS: SG

    Analysis: McLemore remains in the top 5, but I’m starting to have my doubts. I love the talent. But his lack of preparation for the draft is hurting him. Multiple sources told me that his workout in Phoenix was not impressive; he wasn’t in shape, and he struggled to keep up in the workout. I heard similar things in Orlando. McLemore is in a tug-of-war right now between adviser Rodney Blackstock and his agency Rivals. It’s kept McLemore out of the gym and for the most part, out of workouts. How much will all of this affect the draft stock? I’m told teams are worried. But how worried? Enough for one of the most talented players in the draft to slide further? If the Suns pass on McLemore, both C.J. McCollum and Michael Carter-Williams are possibilities here.

    PLAYER CARD
    6Alex LenNew Orleans Pelicans
    COLLEGE: MarylandAGE: 19HT: 7-1WT: 225POS: C

    Analysis: Len could go as high as No. 1 to the Cavs or No. 4 to the Bobcats, but I doubt he gets past the Pelicans at No. 6. Pairing him on the floor with Anthony Davis makes for a terrific front line. Small forward and point guard are the other two directions in which the Pelicans could go.

    They love Porter, but it’s doubtful he’ll still be there at No. 6, and after Dario Saric withdrew from the draft on Monday, there aren’t any other small forwards to be really excited about. They like Trey Burke and Michael Carter-Williams, but sources continue to say they believe Austin Rivers still can make the transition to point guard.

    PLAYER CARD
    7Michael Carter-WilliamsSacramento Kings
    COLLEGE: SyracuseAGE: 21HT: 6-6WT: 184POS: PG

    Analysis: The good news: The Kings finally have a general manager in Pete D’Alessandro. The bad news: He started on Monday, which is after the Kings had completed workouts with most of the prospects in their range. So, either the Kings drag players back to Sacramento, or new coach Mike Malone and owner Vivek Ranadive will be heavily influencing the call.

    From what I can gather, UCLA forward Shabazz Muhammad had the best workout, though the Kings weren’t particularly high on him prior to that. The team loved Carter-Williams before he came in, but weren’t impressed with his workout. Sounds as if Trey Burke isn’t particularly high on their list, either. Ditto for C.J. McCollum.

    I’m not sure what to make of all that, but here’s the best I can do: One of the biggest reasons the Kings hired D’Alessandro was because of his analytics work. Muhammad looks horrible in virtually every analytics model I’ve seen. Carter-Williams looks good in almost of all of them.

    PLAYER CARD
    8Trey BurkeDetroit Pistons
    COLLEGE: MichiganAGE: 20HT: 6-1WT: 187POS: PG

    Analysis: The Pistons are hoping, for a third year in a row, that one of the top seven players on the board slides to them on draft night. However, it the draft holds true to form, look for them to try to address their backcourt at No. 8. The team believes Brandon Knight is more suited to play the 2 and would like to bring in a “pure” point guard to run the team. While Burke is a little undersized, he’s highly skilled as both a shooter and a penetrator and has great leadership capabilities. C.J. McCollum and Cody Zeller also are possibilities here, especially if both Burke and Carter-Williams are off the board.

    PLAYER CARD
    9Kentavious Caldwell-PopeMinnesota Timberwolves
    COLLEGE: GeorgiaAGE: 20HT: 6-6WT: 204POS: SG

    Analysis: It sounds as if the Timberwolves have narrowed things down to Caldwell-Pope and Shabazz Muhammad. Although Muhammad is more of a natural scorer, it’s hard to believe the Wolves will pass on Caldwell-Pope’s shooting abilities. The team really needs shooters and Caldwell-Pope has a chance to be one of the two or three best shooters in the draft.

    PLAYER CARD
    10C.J. McCollumPortland Trail Blazers
    COLLEGE: LehighAGE: 21HT: 6-3WT: 197POS: PG

    Analysis: The Blazers also are in need of a shooter and would have strong interest in Caldwell-Pope if he doesn’t go at No. 9. McCollum is another good option. He’s a bit undersized to play the 2 (Damian Lillard has the point guard spot on lockdown), but his shooting and driving ability should complement Lillard nicely. The Blazers also are looking at bigs, and Pittsburgh’s Steven Adams looks like a potential fit here.

    PLAYER CARD
    11Cody ZellerPhiladelphia 76ers
    COLLEGE: IndianaAGE: 20HT: 7-0WT: 230POS: C

    Analysis: The 76ers are looking for size. With Andrew Bynum a free agent, Spencer Hawes and Arnett Moultrie are the closest things they have to bigs. Zeller is more of a 4 than a 5, but his athletic ability, combined with his shooting stroke, should allow them to stretch the floor. Adams, Duke’s Mason Plumlee and Brazil’s Lucas Nogueira are also possibilities in Philly.

    PLAYER CARD
    12Steven AdamsOklahoma City Thunder via Toronto Raptors
    COLLEGE: PittsburghAGE: 19HT: 7-0WT: 255POS: C

    Analysis: The Thunder are in win-now mode, but it’s unlikely whomever they draft here will be of much help next season. They have swung and missed a few times with big guys in the draft (Cole Aldrich and Byron Mullens) but could do it again for Adams. While he’s miles away from contributing offensively, defensively he already has the body and instincts to be a good rebounder and shot-blocker. With time, much more might come. Russia’s Sergey Karasev also is a strong possibility here.

    PLAYER CARD
    13Sergey KarasevDallas Mavericks
    COUNTRY: RussiaAGE: 19HT: 6-7WT: 197POS: SF

    Analysis: The Mavericks continue to lean heavily toward trading the pick (if they haven’t already). Multiple sources say it’s unlikely the Mavs will be selecting for themselves when they make this pick on draft night. However, if they do keep the pick, selecting an international player that the Mavs can stash in Europe offers the cap flexibility Dallas is seeking. With their favorite, Dario Saric, out of the draft, a player such as Karasev seems like a great fit. His ability to shoot and his experience playing at a high level in Russia put him ahead of the curve. He’d be a great fit in Dallas whenever he comes over (either this season or next), and at this point his draft stock looks high enough to justify the pick.

    PLAYER CARD
    14Lucas NogueiraUtah Jazz
    COUNTRY: BrazilAGE: 20HT: 6-11WT: 218POS: C
    Analysis: Yes, the Jazz are in the hunt for a point guard. But from what I can gather (and the Jazz are notoriously tight-lipped) the team isn’t in love with any of the point guards who would be left on the board (Shane Larkin and Dennis Schroeder are the two most likely here). They also need bigs (both Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap are free agents this summer) and it looks as if they’re open to using the draft to help address that need, as well. The Jazz have been high on Nogueira for a while, but his performance at the Eurocamp might have sealed the deal for this lithe, long, athletic shot-blocker. I don’t think he’ll be around when they draft again at 21.

    PLAYER CARD
    15Shane LarkinMilwaukee Bucks
    COLLEGE: MiamiAGE: 20HT: 6-0WT: 171POS: PG
    Analysis: With their starting backcourt of Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis both heading into free agency, the Bucks likely will focus on point guard. Larkin and Dennis Schroeder are the two most interesting candidates. Schroeder has more upside, but after dealing with Jennings for the past few years, they might opt for a more traditional guard like Larkin. Murray State’s Isaiah Canaan also has a shot here. His impressive workout turned heads in Milwaukee.

    PLAYER CARD
    16Shabazz MuhammadBoston Celtics
    COLLEGE: UCLAAGE: 20HT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

    Analysis: Muhammad’s stock is all over the place. But then again, so are the Celtics. He could go as high as No. 7 to the Kings or No. 9 to the Wolves or even No. 12 to the Thunder or No. 14 to the Jazz. But if he does slide this far, it’s hard to see Danny Ainge passing on him. There’s just too much talent there, and what the Celtics are going to need — if they really are going into full rebuilding mode — is more talent.

    PLAYER CARD
    17Mason PlumleeAtlanta Hawks
    COLLEGE: DukeAGE: 23HT: 6-10WT: 238POS: PF

    Analysis: The Hawks could use just about everything. Plumlee isn’t a particularly sexy prospect, but he runs the floor very well and is one of the most athletic bigs in the draft. If he rebounds and uses his strength and mobility, he could be a valuable rotation player for the Hawks. Gonzaga’s Kelly Olynyk, San Diego State’s Jamaal Franklin and Michigan’s Tim Hardaway Jr. also are possibilities.

    PLAYER CARD
    18Giannis AntetokounmpoAtlanta Hawks via Houston Rockets
    COUNTRY: GreeceAGE: 18HT: 6-9WT: 215POS: SF

    Analysis: Antetokounmpo turned a lot of heads last week in Italy playing for Greece’s under-20 team. While he still projects as the rawest prospect in the draft, teams were impressed with how he handled himself against stronger competition. The word out of Italy was that there was no way he was getting past the Hawks. He might go higher (the Thunder, Mavericks and Jazz all have interest) but it now looks as if he’s secured a top-20 selection.

    PLAYER CARD
    19Reggie BullockCleveland Cavaliers via Los Angeles Lakers
    COLLEGE: North CarolinaAGE: 22HT: 6-7WT: 200POS: SF

    Analysis: If the Cavs grab Noel at No. 1, look for them to add a small forward or shooter with the second first-round pick. They would love to get their hands on Karasev, but I’m told they believe Bullock wouldn’t be a bad consolation prize. Bullock shot 44 percent from 3-point range this season and has the size to play both wing positions.

    PLAYER CARD
    20Jamaal FranklinChicago Bulls
    COLLEGE: San Diego St.AGE: 21HT: 6-5WT: 191POS: SG

    Analysis: He’s had just one workout, with the Knicks, though that’s about to change. The Bulls really need a shooter, and that isn’t exactly Franklin’s forté. However, his jumper has improved considerably. What coach Tom Thibodeau will love immediately is Franklin’s defensive presence on the floor. This is one of the toughest players in the draft and a kid who should contribute immediately — a smaller version of Kawhi Leonard. Tim Hardaway Jr. also is a strong possibility here.

    PLAYER CARD
    21Dennis SchroederUtah Jazz
    COUNTRY: GermanyAGE: 19HT: 6-2WT: 165POS: PG

    Analysis: The Jazz do need a point guard, and after a series of shaky workouts, I think there’s a good chance Schroeder will be here when they draft at No. 21. The bigger question — is Schroeder the point guard the Jazz would draft? The team also likes Murray State’s Isaiah Canaan — a lot. Do the Jazz go for upside or a proven guard with a little lower ceiling? Obviously, if the Jazz pass on Nogueira earlier, he’d be in play here.

    PLAYER CARD
    22Tony SnellBrooklyn Nets
    COLLEGE: New MexicoAGE: 21HT: 6-7WT: 198POS: SG

    Analysis: Snell quietly is flying up the draft boards after a series of terrific workouts. He’s in play now with Chicago, Utah, Brooklyn and Indiana. The appeal? He’s a super athletic wing with NBA length and defensive abilities. He was very inconsistent at New Mexico, but I’m told numerous NBA teams love the talent. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Louisville’s Gorgui Dieng also are in play here.

    PLAYER CARD
    23Kelly OlynykIndiana Pacers
    COLLEGE: GonzagaAGE: 22HT: 7-0WT: 234POS: PF

    Analysis: The Pacers are hoping someone in the top 15 or 20 on our Big Board slides to them. In this scenario, their wish is granted. Olynyk is getting looks as high as the 76ers at No. 11, the Jazz at No. 14, the Celtics at No. 16. But if he slides past those teams, he’d be welcomed with open arms in Indy. The team needs depth everywhere, and Olynyk’s ability to play a stretch 4 would offer another weapon off the bench. Tony Snell, Isaiah Canaan and Virginia Tech’s Erick Green also are in the mix here.

    PLAYER CARD
    24Tony MitchellNew York Knicks
    SCHOOL: North TexasAGE: 21HT: 6-8WT: 220POS: SF

    Analysis: I continue to hear the Knicks have a strong affinity for Mitchell. He has all of the physical tools to succeed in the NBA — strength, length, elite athletic ability. And the Knicks really need help on the front line. I also hear South Dakota State’s Nate Wolters is a sleeper here.

    PLAYER CARD
    25Ricky LedoLos Angeles Clippers
    COLLEGE: ProvidenceAGE: 23HT: 6-6WT: 197POS: SG

    Analysis: Ledo continues to draw praise from every team for which he works out. The Clippers appear to be especially high on him. I think Ledo could end up going higher (maybe even much higher) on draft night. A few teams in the late lottery and mid-first round are taking a look. But if he lands here, it’s a steal for the Clippers, who have a track record of taking young players later in the draft and developing them.

    PLAYER CARD
    26Rudy GobertMinnesota Timberwolves via Memphis Grizzlies
    COUNTRY: FranceAGE: 20HT: 7-2WT: 238POS: PF

    Analysis: The Timberwolves will need depth in the middle, and while Gobert has been sliding steadily on draft boards the past few weeks, at this point in the draft he is a steal. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Cal’s Allen Crabbe also are possibilities here.

    PLAYER CARD
    27Tim Hardaway Jr.Denver Nuggets
    COLLEGE: MichiganAGE: 21HT: 6-6WT: 199POS: SG

    Analysis: The Nuggets are in danger of losing Andre Iguodala this summer after he opted to become a free agent. While Hardaway is a far cry from Iguodala, he’s one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft and could step in immediately and along with Evan Fournier, help with some of the minutes used by Iggy.

    PLAYER CARD
    28Gorgui DiengSan Antonio Spurs
    COLLEGE: LouisvilleAGE: 23HT: 6-11WT: 230POS: C

    Analysis: Injury concerns for Dieng (ankle and knee) have hurt his stock a bit, and he’s slowly sliding into the 20s. Teams like him, but given his age, injuries matter. That shouldn’t stop the Spurs from taking him here. They have big needs on the front line and Dieng is one of the more NBA-ready big men in the draft.

    PLAYER CARD
    29Alex AbrinesOklahoma City Thunder
    COUNTRY: SpainAGE: 20HT: 6-5WT: 195POS: SG

    Analysis: Again, the Thunder have a ton of flexibility right now, and with two first-round picks they don’t need a player to come over immediately. Abrines is an interesting player. He’s playing limited minutes for one of the top teams in Europe and has significant upside. The team can afford to be patient and stash him in Europe for a year or two until he’s ready to come in and contribute.

    PLAYER CARD
    30Glen Rice Jr.Phoenix Suns
    COLLEGE: Georgia TechAGE: 22HT: 6-6WT: 211POS: SG

    Analysis: If the Suns get their 2-guard with their first pick, don’t be surprised if Phoenix tries to add another wing who can shoot the ball with its second first-rounder. Rice dominated the D-League last season and probably is big enough to spend time at the 3. He’s also one of the two or three most NBA-ready prospects in the draft.

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