[SeattleSuperChronicsParticipant]

 Thon Maker testing the draft rule…I say late lottery pick. Thoughts..

[Bencelticsfan2346Participant]

 It certainly shakes things up a bit. I thought it was a typo when the notification came up from bleacher report. It definitely makes this draft a bit more interesting

[Bencelticsfan2346Participant]

 It certainly shakes things up a bit. I thought it was a typo when the notification came up from bleacher report. It definitely makes this draft a bit more interesting

[BrentSuriaga01Participant]

He is the typical prospect that is literally 2 years away from being 2 years away. The team that will draft him has to be patient on his development.

[Hype Machine]

This is wrong. He’s already good and has numerous tournament MVP’s to prove it. 

He’s not 4 years away from being an NBA contributor….

[Hype Machine]

This is wrong. He’s already good and has numerous tournament MVP’s to prove it. 

He’s not 4 years away from being an NBA contributor….

[cjwParticipant]

 People overuse that phrase way too much. And it doesn’t work at all with Maker.

[cjwParticipant]

 People overuse that phrase way too much. And it doesn’t work at all with Maker.

[timinator1Participant]

He’s a string bean playing against smaller kids. He should be in college to learn the game and get himself ready to play. Look at Skal and Chase Jeter, both comps in terms of position and size. Neither of those guys would be factors in the NBA next few years, so why would Thon? 

[timinator1Participant]

He’s a string bean playing against smaller kids. He should be in college to learn the game and get himself ready to play. Look at Skal and Chase Jeter, both comps in terms of position and size. Neither of those guys would be factors in the NBA next few years, so why would Thon? 

[BrentSuriaga01Participant]

He is the typical prospect that is literally 2 years away from being 2 years away. The team that will draft him has to be patient on his development.

[Hype Machine]

I’ve read different things….

Some which say he qualifies using his Canadian education, and some which say he doesn’t and has to go to College for a year.

If he can indeed get drafted…what’s stopping Star HS players going to Canada (or another international country) for a year and either getting ahead of their classes, like Jamal Murray did, or going straight to the NBA, like Thon Maker.

Seems like there’s a double standard working against US players. Isaac Humphries and Dante Exum are other guys that got ahead of their American peers using their overseas education. 

Either way…Thon Maker is basically auditioning for the NBA at the Hoops Summit. If he plays well, he would certainly be in the lottery. Kinda like a multi-million dollar audition. 

 

 

[negguaryParticipant]

he may be rejected for the NBA may fear that this could indeed become a tend for players who’ll try to reside elsewhere in order to declare early 

[VRod305Participant]

 Jennings and Mudiay have already done it. It’s one of those things though where it’s tough to do. I can’t imagine having to go to another country and have a job as an 18 year old.

[VRod305Participant]

 Jennings and Mudiay have already done it. It’s one of those things though where it’s tough to do. I can’t imagine having to go to another country and have a job as an 18 year old.

[negguaryParticipant]

mudiay and Jennings did it after the fact, I’m talking about relocating with your family or living with someone else while in high school in order to forgo playing in college my friend.  

[negguaryParticipant]

mudiay and Jennings did it after the fact, I’m talking about relocating with your family or living with someone else while in high school in order to forgo playing in college my friend.  

[VRod305Participant]

 They both went from playing in HS to playing overseas to the NBA.

[VRod305Participant]

 They both went from playing in HS to playing overseas to the NBA.

[negguaryParticipant]

he may be rejected for the NBA may fear that this could indeed become a tend for players who’ll try to reside elsewhere in order to declare early 

[OnionsParticipant]

KU fans saying because he graduated last year and has spend this past year at a prep school. Not sure. It does show a potential loop hole, though, whatever Maker did.

 

They should just let kids enter straight to the draft anyway.

 

[OnionsParticipant]

Can’t edit posts? Only now I realize that 5 years later…

 

Anyway, it is the Canada thing. Apparently they have like an optional grade 13. Thon graduated after grade 12 so techinically he’s a year removed from high school/graduation. Interesting. 

[OnionsParticipant]

Can’t edit posts? Only now I realize that 5 years later…

 

Anyway, it is the Canada thing. Apparently they have like an optional grade 13. Thon graduated after grade 12 so techinically he’s a year removed from high school/graduation. Interesting. 

[OnionsParticipant]

KU fans saying because he graduated last year and has spend this past year at a prep school. Not sure. It does show a potential loop hole, though, whatever Maker did.

 

They should just let kids enter straight to the draft anyway.

 

[BleedGreen808Participant]

 Draftexpress says he’s pulled out of the Hoop Summit to focus on workouts and preparing for the draft.  A bit disappointing because I wanted to see how he looked in the event compared to last year.  

[Hype Machine]

Draft Express has gone downhill ever since it became compromised by Woj.

Woj gets the scoops, but he holds grudges and is guilty of complete character assassination. If you don’t give him what he wants, he’ll write one condemning article after another that paints a player in a bad light. 

They’ve clearly got more resources than this site, but that doesn’t mean anything to me anymore if they can’t be relied upon for unbiased analysis. I don’t always agree with draftnet’s content, but at least I don’t feel like they’ve got an agenda. 

 

 

[BleedGreen808Participant]

 Fair enough but what agenda is there to saying he’s pulled out of the Hoop Summit?  I only replied because you mentioned the Hoop Summit would be a good audition for nba teams.  If you have inside info that he’s remaining in the event then why don’t you share it?  

[Hype Machine]

Draft Express doesn’t know anything about Maker’s intentions. And I wouldn’t believe anything they’ve quoted from Ed Smith. They might be right this time…but they’re usually wrong. They might have spoken to Hoops Summit Organisers themselves….although I know that Nike absolutely hates Woj as well..but it could have leaked. 

The man who would know is a journalist by the name of Olgun Ulic, who has forged strong relationships with Smith and Maker over numerous years. He made no mention of the Hoops Summit in his recent article, thus making me have no confidence in the recent Draft Express announcement 

 Along with ESPN, I’ve read one report after another that was totally based on guesswork…and in every time it’s proven to be wrong. This has greatly annoyed them…and they take it out on Ed Smith through character assasination, whilst failing to take into account all the good work he does for these kids. They also majorly under-rate Thon Maker, who is clearly better than late first-round talent. 

Ed Smith is very selective about who gets access to his kids, as he shelters them from the Hype as much as possible. It’s not his fault someone made a mix-tape which blew peoples minds. 

ESPN and Draft Express have wanted to hype Maker for years…he’s human click-bait. 

Notice how Bleacher Report got the exclusive on Makers announcement…how mad do you think that’s going to make Woj and Givony feel. Expect more character assasination of Ed Smith and artificial underhypping of Makers Draft Stock in the meantime. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

Draft Express doesn’t know anything about Maker’s intentions. And I wouldn’t believe anything they’ve quoted from Ed Smith. They might be right this time…but they’re usually wrong. They might have spoken to Hoops Summit Organisers themselves….although I know that Nike absolutely hates Woj as well..but it could have leaked. 

The man who would know is a journalist by the name of Olgun Ulic, who has forged strong relationships with Smith and Maker over numerous years. He made no mention of the Hoops Summit in his recent article, thus making me have no confidence in the recent Draft Express announcement 

 Along with ESPN, I’ve read one report after another that was totally based on guesswork…and in every time it’s proven to be wrong. This has greatly annoyed them…and they take it out on Ed Smith through character assasination, whilst failing to take into account all the good work he does for these kids. They also majorly under-rate Thon Maker, who is clearly better than late first-round talent. 

Ed Smith is very selective about who gets access to his kids, as he shelters them from the Hype as much as possible. It’s not his fault someone made a mix-tape which blew peoples minds. 

ESPN and Draft Express have wanted to hype Maker for years…he’s human click-bait. 

Notice how Bleacher Report got the exclusive on Makers announcement…how mad do you think that’s going to make Woj and Givony feel. Expect more character assasination of Ed Smith and artificial underhypping of Makers Draft Stock in the meantime. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[BleedGreen808Participant]

 Fair enough but what agenda is there to saying he’s pulled out of the Hoop Summit?  I only replied because you mentioned the Hoop Summit would be a good audition for nba teams.  If you have inside info that he’s remaining in the event then why don’t you share it?  

[Hype Machine]

Draft Express has gone downhill ever since it became compromised by Woj.

Woj gets the scoops, but he holds grudges and is guilty of complete character assassination. If you don’t give him what he wants, he’ll write one condemning article after another that paints a player in a bad light. 

They’ve clearly got more resources than this site, but that doesn’t mean anything to me anymore if they can’t be relied upon for unbiased analysis. I don’t always agree with draftnet’s content, but at least I don’t feel like they’ve got an agenda. 

 

 

[BleedGreen808Participant]

 Draftexpress says he’s pulled out of the Hoop Summit to focus on workouts and preparing for the draft.  A bit disappointing because I wanted to see how he looked in the event compared to last year.  

[SmooveKRYPTParticipant]

He’s 19 years old the calendar year of the draft and he’ll be one year removed from his HS graduation come draft time. According to the CBA he should be eligible.

Prep schools allow kids to stay and play another 2 years after their scheduled HS graduating class if they either need more time to get NCAA eligible, haven’t fulfilled all the requirements to graduate, or just want to use the extra time for development. It’s not just a Canada thing, same goes for prep schools in the U.S. (Dwayne Bacon & OJ Mayo are a couple of recent examples of kids who were already 20 going into their freshmen college season)

This is no different than the Andre Drummond situation from 2011-12. If you remember, Dre was going to stay and play at his school the year after graduating and just enter the draft from there. It was very late in the process that he decided to go to UCONN http://www.nbadraft.net/andre-drummonds-great-decision

If I’m Thon – and the league allows it – I’d declare now too. Why deal with the NCAA and their BS that we all know he’s going to have an extremely long investigation into his background before (if) he gets cleared to play. Look how badly their "process" affected Diallo and his stock this year.

 

 

 

 

[SmooveKRYPTParticipant]

He’s 19 years old the calendar year of the draft and he’ll be one year removed from his HS graduation come draft time. According to the CBA he should be eligible.

Prep schools allow kids to stay and play another 2 years after their scheduled HS graduating class if they either need more time to get NCAA eligible, haven’t fulfilled all the requirements to graduate, or just want to use the extra time for development. It’s not just a Canada thing, same goes for prep schools in the U.S. (Dwayne Bacon & OJ Mayo are a couple of recent examples of kids who were already 20 going into their freshmen college season)

This is no different than the Andre Drummond situation from 2011-12. If you remember, Dre was going to stay and play at his school the year after graduating and just enter the draft from there. It was very late in the process that he decided to go to UCONN http://www.nbadraft.net/andre-drummonds-great-decision

If I’m Thon – and the league allows it – I’d declare now too. Why deal with the NCAA and their BS that we all know he’s going to have an extremely long investigation into his background before (if) he gets cleared to play. Look how badly their "process" affected Diallo and his stock this year.

 

 

 

 

[CDPHParticipant]

 He actually pulled out of the Hoop Summit.  

[CDPHParticipant]

 He actually pulled out of the Hoop Summit.  

[ItsVictorOladipoParticipant]

If he can indeed get drafted…what’s stopping Star HS players going to Canada (or another international country) for a year and either getting ahead of their classes, like Jamal Murray did, or going straight to the NBA, like Thon Maker.

—————————————————————————–

Huh? how did Murray "get ahead" of his class. He just turned 19…

 

 

 

 

[ItsVictorOladipoParticipant]

If he can indeed get drafted…what’s stopping Star HS players going to Canada (or another international country) for a year and either getting ahead of their classes, like Jamal Murray did, or going straight to the NBA, like Thon Maker.

—————————————————————————–

Huh? how did Murray "get ahead" of his class. He just turned 19…

 

 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

I’ve read different things….

Some which say he qualifies using his Canadian education, and some which say he doesn’t and has to go to College for a year.

If he can indeed get drafted…what’s stopping Star HS players going to Canada (or another international country) for a year and either getting ahead of their classes, like Jamal Murray did, or going straight to the NBA, like Thon Maker.

Seems like there’s a double standard working against US players. Isaac Humphries and Dante Exum are other guys that got ahead of their American peers using their overseas education. 

Either way…Thon Maker is basically auditioning for the NBA at the Hoops Summit. If he plays well, he would certainly be in the lottery. Kinda like a multi-million dollar audition. 

 

 

[negguaryParticipant]

 Huge for this year’s draft!!! 

[negguaryParticipant]

 Huge for this year’s draft!!! 

[Taylor Gang MikeParticipant]

 Sixers if they get 3 anyone?????

[negguaryParticipant]

 because I was just saying I want my sixers to grab him, but you don’t have to use that ball high of a pick on him. We have enough late round picks where we could trade down if necessary to get him! Honestly the sixers are the best place for him to be because he can develop his game without much pressure! 

[negguaryParticipant]

 because I was just saying I want my sixers to grab him, but you don’t have to use that ball high of a pick on him. We have enough late round picks where we could trade down if necessary to get him! Honestly the sixers are the best place for him to be because he can develop his game without much pressure! 

[timinator1Participant]

…would the Sixers take another big who’s a project? There are other positions to fill. 

[timinator1Participant]

…would the Sixers take another big who’s a project? There are other positions to fill. 

[negguaryParticipant]

But he doesn’t play like a big….if h can bulk up and learn the game he can play the three…not comparing the two in no type of way but KD Brandon Ingram are all virtually 7 feet and aren’t considered bigs.

[negguaryParticipant]

But he doesn’t play like a big….if h can bulk up and learn the game he can play the three…not comparing the two in no type of way but KD Brandon Ingram are all virtually 7 feet and aren’t considered bigs.

[timinator1Participant]

this kid isn’t a 3. In all his videos, he’s an obvious 4 or 5. Do you really think that the Sixers can play Noel, Okafor and Thon all together? No, I don’t think they can. They’d be much better getting Ingram (who’s also still a kid) or Buddy or Kris Dunn (my personal fave out of this group for the Sixers)

[timinator1Participant]

this kid isn’t a 3. In all his videos, he’s an obvious 4 or 5. Do you really think that the Sixers can play Noel, Okafor and Thon all together? No, I don’t think they can. They’d be much better getting Ingram (who’s also still a kid) or Buddy or Kris Dunn (my personal fave out of this group for the Sixers)

[Taylor Gang MikeParticipant]

 Sixers if they get 3 anyone?????

[BleedGreen808Participant]

The Celtics and Suns currently have second 1st rounders in the 12-16 range.  If Maker can enter the draft those teams could take a flyer on him around late lotto.  

[CU.LIONSParticipant]

Agree with the above statement. Thon has incredible talent but unless he and his family are in dire need of money, I’d really like to see him play and develop in college for a year or 2. But if Boston did draft him with one of their many draft picks I would be excited.

[Hype Machine]

 I can guarantee his family is indeed in dire need of money. He’s a Sudanese refugee who comes from my home town so I see first-hand the state of living that the few (that managed to escape) his people face every day. They escaped a war-torn country and relocated here, and despite coming to a priveledged country, are hugely disadvanted culturally and economically and lead very unfortunate lives. 

People who talk negatively about his guardian (Ed Smith) are way off the mark, and need to take into account what this guy does for severely disadvantaged kids who carry emotional scars that would make young American Youth from the Ghettos look like Richie Rich. 

I’ve seen guys like Jeff Goodman criticise Ed Smith’s character because he didn’t give them access to Maker. What this guy has done for dozens of talented, underprivedged kids is worthy of a medal and they are all extremely high-character kids who speak of him highly. 

So he’s not perfect….but he’s completely misrepresented. 

 

[VRod305Participant]

 Sounds fitting since Goodman is a moron.

 

[VRod305Participant]

 Sounds fitting since Goodman is a moron.

 

[Hype Machine]

 I can guarantee his family is indeed in dire need of money. He’s a Sudanese refugee who comes from my home town so I see first-hand the state of living that the few (that managed to escape) his people face every day. They escaped a war-torn country and relocated here, and despite coming to a priveledged country, are hugely disadvanted culturally and economically and lead very unfortunate lives. 

People who talk negatively about his guardian (Ed Smith) are way off the mark, and need to take into account what this guy does for severely disadvantaged kids who carry emotional scars that would make young American Youth from the Ghettos look like Richie Rich. 

I’ve seen guys like Jeff Goodman criticise Ed Smith’s character because he didn’t give them access to Maker. What this guy has done for dozens of talented, underprivedged kids is worthy of a medal and they are all extremely high-character kids who speak of him highly. 

So he’s not perfect….but he’s completely misrepresented. 

 

[CU.LIONSParticipant]

Agree with the above statement. Thon has incredible talent but unless he and his family are in dire need of money, I’d really like to see him play and develop in college for a year or 2. But if Boston did draft him with one of their many draft picks I would be excited.

[mamadouParticipant]

Yessir, i don’t know him, but the suns have no PF under contract, they’ll keep losing with or without him.

The celts are one of the smallest team in the league, they’ll improve with or without him, he could have time to make his presence felt in year 2-3.

If he has 2 way potential, that’s what these teams need.

Suns-Celts-raps-bucks-magic…

 

 

[mamadouParticipant]

Yessir, i don’t know him, but the suns have no PF under contract, they’ll keep losing with or without him.

The celts are one of the smallest team in the league, they’ll improve with or without him, he could have time to make his presence felt in year 2-3.

If he has 2 way potential, that’s what these teams need.

Suns-Celts-raps-bucks-magic…

 

 

[BleedGreen808Participant]

The Celtics and Suns currently have second 1st rounders in the 12-16 range.  If Maker can enter the draft those teams could take a flyer on him around late lotto.  

[EndlessknightParticipant]

 Who goes first, Thon or Skal? 

[EndlessknightParticipant]

 Who goes first, Thon or Skal? 

[cjwParticipant]

 So after years of waiting to see where he goes to college…he goes straight to the nba

[cjwParticipant]

 So after years of waiting to see where he goes to college…he goes straight to the nba

[VintageKobeParticipant]

 This is a weak draft. If he kills his private worouts he could potentially be a top 3 pick. Highly doubt the nba lets him do this. If they do I could see josh jackson trying to tes the waters even though his situation is different 

[alex23Participant]

 If he’s eligible its smart for him to go now because other than the 1st two picks, this draft is wide open. Next years draft is very strong so its smart for him to work out now and get his shine. I think he could go third if the right team has the pick and he has a strong workout.

[alex23Participant]

 If he’s eligible its smart for him to go now because other than the 1st two picks, this draft is wide open. Next years draft is very strong so its smart for him to work out now and get his shine. I think he could go third if the right team has the pick and he has a strong workout.

[VintageKobeParticipant]

 This is a weak draft. If he kills his private worouts he could potentially be a top 3 pick. Highly doubt the nba lets him do this. If they do I could see josh jackson trying to tes the waters even though his situation is different 

[MopgrassParticipant]

 I don’t think the NBA will let him through this year. However, I scoff at the notion he "might" be a lottery pick. The Celtics need a center, the Lakers need a center, and many argue Dragan is actually a PF. Unlike last year, there are zero potential star centers in this year’s draft unless Maker is in it. He’ll take time and get thrown around for a while, but he’s closer to ready than Skai (also a PF in my opinion). At least Thon has tenacity. Thon is perfect for today’s NBA. If he did make it, I think he’s a top 3 pick, and he makes an outstanding year to have a top 3 pick. 

[MopgrassParticipant]

 I don’t think the NBA will let him through this year. However, I scoff at the notion he "might" be a lottery pick. The Celtics need a center, the Lakers need a center, and many argue Dragan is actually a PF. Unlike last year, there are zero potential star centers in this year’s draft unless Maker is in it. He’ll take time and get thrown around for a while, but he’s closer to ready than Skai (also a PF in my opinion). At least Thon has tenacity. Thon is perfect for today’s NBA. If he did make it, I think he’s a top 3 pick, and he makes an outstanding year to have a top 3 pick. 

[GuitarzzParticipant]

 I’m an Australian so I want him to do well, but dude needs to go to colledge, stop trying to cheat the system.

 

 

[ThenilonatorParticipant]

 You need to go to "college"

[ThenilonatorParticipant]

 You need to go to "college"

[GuitarzzParticipant]

 Knew that was coming, couldn’t edit it…..

 

 

[GuitarzzParticipant]

 Knew that was coming, couldn’t edit it…..

 

 

[GuitarzzParticipant]

 I’m an Australian so I want him to do well, but dude needs to go to colledge, stop trying to cheat the system.

 

 

[OhCanada-Participant]

I think he is likely a late lottery pick. Top 3 is optimistic he hasn’t quite earned that title.

[OhCanada-Participant]

I think he is likely a late lottery pick. Top 3 is optimistic he hasn’t quite earned that title.

[sheltwon3Participant]

 Cheat what system he fits all the requirements.  I don’t understand people who say that as if college sports is the answer college sports is a cash grab.  College is about education.  amatuer sports should be separate from colleges because it takes advantage of a lot of talented athletes.  A talented person with skills few possess is going to get rewarded with or without college but college could not make the kind of money they do without those talented individuals.

[sheltwon3Participant]

 Cheat what system he fits all the requirements.  I don’t understand people who say that as if college sports is the answer college sports is a cash grab.  College is about education.  amatuer sports should be separate from colleges because it takes advantage of a lot of talented athletes.  A talented person with skills few possess is going to get rewarded with or without college but college could not make the kind of money they do without those talented individuals.

[benny15Participant]

most articulate quote ive read regarding the matter said that he will declare for the draft, which he may be deem ineligble and forego a college career, which he may also be deemed ineligble. this is as close to the right move you can get if you were maker. his consolation prize if he’s not allowed, play pro oversees for a year. but theres little reason for him not to throw his hat in when the probability of him being allowed to play in the NBA is just the same as the NCAA.

[benny15Participant]

most articulate quote ive read regarding the matter said that he will declare for the draft, which he may be deem ineligble and forego a college career, which he may also be deemed ineligble. this is as close to the right move you can get if you were maker. his consolation prize if he’s not allowed, play pro oversees for a year. but theres little reason for him not to throw his hat in when the probability of him being allowed to play in the NBA is just the same as the NCAA.

[VRod305Participant]

 The first question is whether he is eligible or not. I’m not sure how the Canadian school system works. Is this school like a prep or charter school or something like IMG that is basically equivalent to a college? Had he stayed in the Sudan, he would be eligible.

Where he goes? I think he’s a late lottery based on name alone. I could see the Bucks taking him because they like to have a bunch of guys that don’t have a position.

 

[VRod305Participant]

 The first question is whether he is eligible or not. I’m not sure how the Canadian school system works. Is this school like a prep or charter school or something like IMG that is basically equivalent to a college? Had he stayed in the Sudan, he would be eligible.

Where he goes? I think he’s a late lottery based on name alone. I could see the Bucks taking him because they like to have a bunch of guys that don’t have a position.

 

[ExumInfernoParticipant]

 Not sure any of this sounds right.  He is trying to get around rules by doing the Ivan Chiriaev Canadian school thing?

If he wasn’t going to college, a year in the Chinese or Australian league might have made sense, and for money, it just seems odd to be in Canada.

 

 

 

[ExumInfernoParticipant]

 Not sure any of this sounds right.  He is trying to get around rules by doing the Ivan Chiriaev Canadian school thing?

If he wasn’t going to college, a year in the Chinese or Australian league might have made sense, and for money, it just seems odd to be in Canada.

 

 

 

[theballerwayParticipant]

to see this coming. Especially after he didn’t reclassify last yr. I His guardian is smart. Nice guy or cotrrpt he has made an investment that is soon to cash in. It would be hard fpr the nba to block him. He essentially id in the same position as Exum was when he left HS- outside US, old enough just. graduated.

[theballerwayParticipant]

to see this coming. Especially after he didn’t reclassify last yr. I His guardian is smart. Nice guy or cotrrpt he has made an investment that is soon to cash in. It would be hard fpr the nba to block him. He essentially id in the same position as Exum was when he left HS- outside US, old enough just. graduated.

[Hype Machine]

Surprise Surprise.

Woj with another Anti-Maker tweet, predicting Maker will spend 2 years in the D League and NBA Execs have seen him regress. Trying to sabotage his draft stock cos Makers guardian freezes him and Givony out. 

This guy is a joke…obviously bitter that he or Givony cant get near him. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

Surprise Surprise.

Woj with another Anti-Maker tweet, predicting Maker will spend 2 years in the D League and NBA Execs have seen him regress. Trying to sabotage his draft stock cos Makers guardian freezes him and Givony out. 

This guy is a joke…obviously bitter that he or Givony cant get near him. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[GBeeParticipant]

 Bitter or not, I agree with him. He’s more of a gangly energy guy to me.  Not particularly skilled, struggles holding position, his scoring moves appear sloppy and predetermined.  Despite putting on weight his moves through contact almost always result in an off balance attempt.  Doesn’t have an advanced understanding of the game for his age either.

I wouldn’t take him earlier than pick 20 and would have 0 expectiations of him helping a team in the near future.

If he challenges and succeeds in declaring, this will only expedite a higher age limit/additional requirements for draft eligibility.  The NBA doesn’t want this crap.  I assume they’ll exhaust their resources to challenge this bc they don’t want this precedent being set.

[GBeeParticipant]

 Bitter or not, I agree with him. He’s more of a gangly energy guy to me.  Not particularly skilled, struggles holding position, his scoring moves appear sloppy and predetermined.  Despite putting on weight his moves through contact almost always result in an off balance attempt.  Doesn’t have an advanced understanding of the game for his age either.

I wouldn’t take him earlier than pick 20 and would have 0 expectiations of him helping a team in the near future.

If he challenges and succeeds in declaring, this will only expedite a higher age limit/additional requirements for draft eligibility.  The NBA doesn’t want this crap.  I assume they’ll exhaust their resources to challenge this bc they don’t want this precedent being set.

[jabbar_medvedenkoParticipant]

He qualifies for this year’s draft as an international player, and absolutely no reason why he wouldn’t be able to participate in this year’s draft. International player is any player that has maintaned residence outside of the US for three or more years prior to the draft. So, he’s eligible. 

[jabbar_medvedenkoParticipant]

He qualifies for this year’s draft as an international player, and absolutely no reason why he wouldn’t be able to participate in this year’s draft. International player is any player that has maintaned residence outside of the US for three or more years prior to the draft. So, he’s eligible. 

[Hype Machine]

Hes eligible, and despite what Woj says, teams will have been in his ear telling him to declare because he qualifies and they seriously want to look at him. Theyd he crazy not to…hes a lottery talent with more upside than any bigs in the draft.

The NBA will say no….he will appeal and win…and then the NBA will try change the CBA to ammend the international rule. 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

Hes eligible, and despite what Woj says, teams will have been in his ear telling him to declare because he qualifies and they seriously want to look at him. Theyd he crazy not to…hes a lottery talent with more upside than any bigs in the draft.

The NBA will say no….he will appeal and win…and then the NBA will try change the CBA to ammend the international rule. 

 

 

 

 

 

[timinator1Participant]

Best case scenario? Chris Bosh? LaMarcus? 

[timinator1Participant]

Best case scenario? Chris Bosh? LaMarcus? 

[Taylor Gang MikeParticipant]

 Y’all acting like the Sixers won’t pull the trigger haha

[Taylor Gang MikeParticipant]

 Y’all acting like the Sixers won’t pull the trigger haha

[machu46Participant]

I’m very interested to see if the NBA allows him in, but even so, I can’t see him being taken before the 18th pick or so.  Hard to envision a team taking a HS guy that most scouts have seen as a disappointment recently early in the draft.  I’d be furious if my team takes him in the lottery.

[machu46Participant]

I’m very interested to see if the NBA allows him in, but even so, I can’t see him being taken before the 18th pick or so.  Hard to envision a team taking a HS guy that most scouts have seen as a disappointment recently early in the draft.  I’d be furious if my team takes him in the lottery.

[JV’s_pump_fakeParticipant]

OK so here is my opinion…

I’m Canadian. I graduated from high school with 31 credits at age 17 (late birthday; Oct.) after 4 years.

That gave me my high school diploma. At the time (cuz I’m old) we had an OAC (Ontario Academic Credits) program which is sometimes refered to as grade 13. You could use these classes as University prep although you had already technically graduated. Nowadays it’s commonly called a ‘victory lap’ and it’s used to improve marks or just stay in school for an extra year (to play sports a lot of the time).

If Thon Maker finished his diploma (30 credits) last year and stayed for a ‘victory lap’ he technically meets the CBA requirements of waiting a year after graduating from high school and being in his 19th year at the time of the draft.

What do yall think of that?

[JV’s_pump_fakeParticipant]

OK so here is my opinion…

I’m Canadian. I graduated from high school with 31 credits at age 17 (late birthday; Oct.) after 4 years.

That gave me my high school diploma. At the time (cuz I’m old) we had an OAC (Ontario Academic Credits) program which is sometimes refered to as grade 13. You could use these classes as University prep although you had already technically graduated. Nowadays it’s commonly called a ‘victory lap’ and it’s used to improve marks or just stay in school for an extra year (to play sports a lot of the time).

If Thon Maker finished his diploma (30 credits) last year and stayed for a ‘victory lap’ he technically meets the CBA requirements of waiting a year after graduating from high school and being in his 19th year at the time of the draft.

What do yall think of that?

[bimirudParticipant]

He seems serious minded.

I hope he ends up with a solid franchise that develops players.

Check out his answers in this interview with Givony:

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Thon-Maker-Exclusive-Post-NBA-Draft-Decision-Interview-5417/

 

 

 

[bimirudParticipant]

He seems serious minded.

I hope he ends up with a solid franchise that develops players.

Check out his answers in this interview with Givony:

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Thon-Maker-Exclusive-Post-NBA-Draft-Decision-Interview-5417/

 

 

 

[BiggaveliiiParticipant]

 Honestly, if he doesnt get the chance to enter the draft because of that so called rule, the NBA players association needs to do something about that. Hes 19 which was the original rule, if hes ready or not he is 19, thats like saying european players who are 19 and play in europe arent allowed to enter the draft. Thon Maker has potential to be a first round pick. Allow him to enter the draft, and then when the collective bargaining talks come up change it. In my OPINION they should get rid of that rule they have in place right now and go back to what it was prior. Ye you may not get the next Lebron but give kids who are 18 a choice. I dont blame the players who come out for playing poorly or having character issues, i blame the teams that draft them because their responsibility is to determine if the kids are ready or not, again thats a whole different topic. Allow him to enter the draft even if he is or isnt ready. The front office of the team holds  that responsibility for  picking him.

[GBeeParticipant]

 Lol.  The players’ association should do something about it? Do you even have a concept of what a union is and who’s interests they serve? I’m sure existing members would LOVE their union advocating for non-union kids to come in and take some of their jobs.

Between the owners and the NBPA these kids have no advocates. The age limit going up and loopholes like the one Thon is trying to exploit getting closed is inevitable. 

 

[GBeeParticipant]

 Lol.  The players’ association should do something about it? Do you even have a concept of what a union is and who’s interests they serve? I’m sure existing members would LOVE their union advocating for non-union kids to come in and take some of their jobs.

Between the owners and the NBPA these kids have no advocates. The age limit going up and loopholes like the one Thon is trying to exploit getting closed is inevitable. 

 

[BiggaveliiiParticipant]

 Honestly, if he doesnt get the chance to enter the draft because of that so called rule, the NBA players association needs to do something about that. Hes 19 which was the original rule, if hes ready or not he is 19, thats like saying european players who are 19 and play in europe arent allowed to enter the draft. Thon Maker has potential to be a first round pick. Allow him to enter the draft, and then when the collective bargaining talks come up change it. In my OPINION they should get rid of that rule they have in place right now and go back to what it was prior. Ye you may not get the next Lebron but give kids who are 18 a choice. I dont blame the players who come out for playing poorly or having character issues, i blame the teams that draft them because their responsibility is to determine if the kids are ready or not, again thats a whole different topic. Allow him to enter the draft even if he is or isnt ready. The front office of the team holds  that responsibility for  picking him.

[ItsVictorOladipoParticipant]

 I don’t get this whole "loophole" that people are talking about…or trying to blame Canada when so many American players have done the same thing like Bacon and Shabazz…

He’s 19, he graduated last year. That is the rule, if he wants to declare for the draft that’s his perogative. He is totally in the right to do so. If NBA teams decide to draft him, based off what’s he done in HS that’s his call. The rule doesn’t say that you have to play ball somewhere other than at the high school level for a year. 

Maybe high schools should start making it a rule that if you already graduated school and are 19 or older you can’t compete in athletics at the HS level. That might maintain thier own credibility and competition levels. 

 

 

[BothTeamsPlayedHardParticipant]

The reason the rule was implemented was to avoid having teams evaluate the NBA potential of guys who are playing against kids who will never play beyond high school. There is one LeBron, and you don’t base rules on the freak of freaks. The debate is not over whether he is 19, but whether this is how the draft process should be handled. Mudiay and Exum might end up being good players, but does anyone have the same regard for them after year one as opposed to before the draft? Mudiay played a handful of games in China, and Exum basically was in Maker’s position. Getting hit with the reality of being challenged is not a bad thing, but the NBA should not be an entry level job.

If there continues to be these random cases of guys going out of their way to avoid adult competition (D-League, college, China, anywhere) prior to entering the draft, I think the league will up the age rule. With the league’s finances in a position where it seems inconceivable that they would have another lockout, I think the next CBA can be more focused on these kinds of changes.

[BothTeamsPlayedHardParticipant]

The reason the rule was implemented was to avoid having teams evaluate the NBA potential of guys who are playing against kids who will never play beyond high school. There is one LeBron, and you don’t base rules on the freak of freaks. The debate is not over whether he is 19, but whether this is how the draft process should be handled. Mudiay and Exum might end up being good players, but does anyone have the same regard for them after year one as opposed to before the draft? Mudiay played a handful of games in China, and Exum basically was in Maker’s position. Getting hit with the reality of being challenged is not a bad thing, but the NBA should not be an entry level job.

If there continues to be these random cases of guys going out of their way to avoid adult competition (D-League, college, China, anywhere) prior to entering the draft, I think the league will up the age rule. With the league’s finances in a position where it seems inconceivable that they would have another lockout, I think the next CBA can be more focused on these kinds of changes.

[ItsVictorOladipoParticipant]

 I don’t get this whole "loophole" that people are talking about…or trying to blame Canada when so many American players have done the same thing like Bacon and Shabazz…

He’s 19, he graduated last year. That is the rule, if he wants to declare for the draft that’s his perogative. He is totally in the right to do so. If NBA teams decide to draft him, based off what’s he done in HS that’s his call. The rule doesn’t say that you have to play ball somewhere other than at the high school level for a year. 

Maybe high schools should start making it a rule that if you already graduated school and are 19 or older you can’t compete in athletics at the HS level. That might maintain thier own credibility and competition levels. 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

Correct, the loophole is to both graduate at 18 and get out of playing adult competition before being draft eligible. Attending a 5th year of High School does this. Thus bypassing College altogether, along with the nitpicking, and strict NCAA amatuerism and academic rules. Makers guardian is concerned he doesn’t qualify for Amatuerism rules in particular. 

The NBA also hates it because players can’t build up the profile upon entering the league that they would otherwise warrant after a season of NCAA play, which has more exposure than HS play. Fans get major hypped when their draft pick makes their debut, because they’ve seen them in college. It leads to more money, pure and simple. But it does lead to a better NBA product overall, no argueing that. 

There is no reason it can’t be done in the US at a prep school as far as I’m aware, provided that the player in question has graduated by 18. Players don’t need to get the credits to be eligible for the NCAA academic requirements, so can basically stink in HS academics, graduate, go to a Prep School for a year and play HS competition and then to the NBA. 

Australia is different, because our world is upside down and we graduate in December. So, we graduate when we are 17. Thats how Humphries go ahead of US High School and went to College a year early. 

 

 

 

 

[Hype Machine]

Correct, the loophole is to both graduate at 18 and get out of playing adult competition before being draft eligible. Attending a 5th year of High School does this. Thus bypassing College altogether, along with the nitpicking, and strict NCAA amatuerism and academic rules. Makers guardian is concerned he doesn’t qualify for Amatuerism rules in particular. 

The NBA also hates it because players can’t build up the profile upon entering the league that they would otherwise warrant after a season of NCAA play, which has more exposure than HS play. Fans get major hypped when their draft pick makes their debut, because they’ve seen them in college. It leads to more money, pure and simple. But it does lead to a better NBA product overall, no argueing that. 

There is no reason it can’t be done in the US at a prep school as far as I’m aware, provided that the player in question has graduated by 18. Players don’t need to get the credits to be eligible for the NCAA academic requirements, so can basically stink in HS academics, graduate, go to a Prep School for a year and play HS competition and then to the NBA. 

Australia is different, because our world is upside down and we graduate in December. So, we graduate when we are 17. Thats how Humphries go ahead of US High School and went to College a year early. 

 

 

 

 

[OhCanada-Participant]

 If you think about it…for Thons development staying in highschool an extra year and learning to dominate as a post graduate is smarter than going straight to college rather than skipping steps. Finishing the initial development is more important than starting the next stage of his development.

Although my belief is he would benefit from doing the same thing at the next level and learn to dominate college basketball before moving to the pros. Not to say he won’t have success through this route but look at Bacon he didn’t exactly dominate, he struggled. Although Bacon is unexpectedly staying at Florida State and proving he can learn and dominate before trying to do it in the NBA. He’s too gifted not to improve if he fully applies himself I guarantee it works for him just like it worked this year for Dunn and Hield. 

Proving you can produce in college eliminates the risk for both the player and the team because the player has proven he can produce on the amatuer level the player has a defined role and teams can now set expectations seamlessly transition to the NBA. He says teams have scouted him and have enough info to make a proper assessment but when was the last time any team has scouted a 7’1 versatile freak like him. Thon Maker- is completely unproven and likely the riskiest pick in the draft and also likely amongst the highest reward.

 

 

[OhCanada-Participant]

 If you think about it…for Thons development staying in highschool an extra year and learning to dominate as a post graduate is smarter than going straight to college rather than skipping steps. Finishing the initial development is more important than starting the next stage of his development.

Although my belief is he would benefit from doing the same thing at the next level and learn to dominate college basketball before moving to the pros. Not to say he won’t have success through this route but look at Bacon he didn’t exactly dominate, he struggled. Although Bacon is unexpectedly staying at Florida State and proving he can learn and dominate before trying to do it in the NBA. He’s too gifted not to improve if he fully applies himself I guarantee it works for him just like it worked this year for Dunn and Hield. 

Proving you can produce in college eliminates the risk for both the player and the team because the player has proven he can produce on the amatuer level the player has a defined role and teams can now set expectations seamlessly transition to the NBA. He says teams have scouted him and have enough info to make a proper assessment but when was the last time any team has scouted a 7’1 versatile freak like him. Thon Maker- is completely unproven and likely the riskiest pick in the draft and also likely amongst the highest reward.

 

 

[Hype Machine]

I can see the Utah Jazz having a long hard look at Maker. With Gobert, Favors and Lyles already locked down, they can take a risk and take him around the end of the Lottery if hes still available. They could use depth at SG…but for a team that has no real needs, and cant attract big free agents, now is the time to swing for the fences.

A distraction free environment with no hype would be perfect…and he fits the Jazz culture with his professionalism and nice guy demeanour.

[Hype Machine]

I can see the Utah Jazz having a long hard look at Maker. With Gobert, Favors and Lyles already locked down, they can take a risk and take him around the end of the Lottery if hes still available. They could use depth at SG…but for a team that has no real needs, and cant attract big free agents, now is the time to swing for the fences.

A distraction free environment with no hype would be perfect…and he fits the Jazz culture with his professionalism and nice guy demeanour.

[lalailaParticipant]

 While I was one of those who still had him as the best prospect in 2017 but had alot of to prove ( I just thought he would)

it’s off course would be crazy to put him over everyone, but yes I would hav a deep look at him in workouts if I dont have top2 pick.

Wouldn’t be surprised at all if he become the best player of his class one day

have you seen him lately he looks like 15lbs bigger than a year ago. and he is smart even if he has some serious perimeter skills he more and more dominates in the post.

Much better prospect than Skal in my opinion.

 

 

 

 

[lalailaParticipant]

 While I was one of those who still had him as the best prospect in 2017 but had alot of to prove ( I just thought he would)

it’s off course would be crazy to put him over everyone, but yes I would hav a deep look at him in workouts if I dont have top2 pick.

Wouldn’t be surprised at all if he become the best player of his class one day

have you seen him lately he looks like 15lbs bigger than a year ago. and he is smart even if he has some serious perimeter skills he more and more dominates in the post.

Much better prospect than Skal in my opinion.

 

 

 

 

[Author]

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