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With the entire draft order now set after the May 21st lottery, here is take # four on an extrended mock draft with breakdowns of each of the first round selections, with team needs factored in.

1.
mclemore
Ben McLemore 6-5 190 SG Kansas Fr. After taking Dion Waiters with the fourth pick last year, going with Noel seems to make more sense, but if history is any lessen going with their top rated prospect regardless of position is the best recipe for success. This pick will come down to who the team values more between McLemore and Noel. And Tristan vs Waiters could also factor in, but Waiters probably would still work in a 6th man role, while Noel and Tristan probably duplicate one another too much. After Nerlens Noel suffered a season ending ACL injury, McLemore became the favorite to be the top pick. But with inconsistent play, culminated by a dreadful tourney performance in which he scored 2 points on 0-9 shooting vs. UNC, McLemore left the door open for Noel to go first even with the ACL injury. McLemore bounced back with a big final game against Michigan, showing off his feathery touch and athletic gifts. He is not a finished product and scouts will nitpick his level of assertiveness and lack of a fiery personality leading up to the draft. But at the end of the day, he’s the guy in this draft with the greatest shot at becoming a superstar. While the feat has not been accomplished (a SG going 1) in 40 years, McLemore is in position to do it. His outside shot is comparable to a perfect golf swing, it’s a thing of beauty. Combine that with freakish athleticism and you have a high level prospect. NBA Comparison: Ray Allen
2.
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noelNerlens Noel 6-11 206 PF Kentucky Fr. Orlando executed their plan to rebuild quickly by trading away veterans and ending up with the most losses on the year. They got into ideal position with the 2nd pick and will likely take whomever is left over between Noel and McLemore. On the bright side for Noel in sustaining the ACL injury, he no longer had any more games for scouts to nitpick the deficiencies in his skill set. His value to the Wildcats also became abundantly clear as the team languished without him, falling short of the NCAA tournament, dropping 4 of 8 in his absence. Noel’s length, leaping ability and cat-like reflexes make him an extraordinary shot blocker. He shows a willingness to hustle and play hard, which combined with his elite level athleticism is very encouraging. His offensive game, however, is extremely raw and may never be anything more than put back dunks and hook shots. He also needs to get much stronger as his upper body and legs are rail thin, evidenced by his 206 lb combine weight. Granted, added weight could ultimately put even more stress on what appear to be fragile knees. The other real concern is that Noel tore the same ACL that he had torn as a sophomore in high school. After coming back faster than doctors had recommended, some wonder if this recent injury was inevitable and whether there could be structural damage making further injuries to the same knee more likely. Regardless, Noel’s ability to impact the defensive end puts him in the running for the top overall pick and he should land in the top 2, despite not being able to fully work out for teams leading up to the draft. NBA Comparison: Larry Sanders
3.
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porter
Otto Porter 6-9 200 SF Georgetown So.The Jan Vesely experiment has not worked out leaving the door open to add local guy Otto Porter. Another local product Alex Len is a possibility. Porter made a very impressive jump from his freshman to sophomore seasons, showing no difficulty in becoming the leader of the team and winning Big East Player of the Year. Otto is about as low risk as it gets in this draft, however his ceiling isn’t as great as some of the other top prospects. He’s a relentless defender and a pro athlete, but it’s unlikely that he will ever be an elite level scorer. He’s very thin, but weight/strength shouldn’t be an issue at the 3 position. He showed the ability to knock down key shots throughout his short college career. Despite a less than picture perfect jumpshot, he gets results. Porter’s consistency and potential makes him a likely top 5 pick in this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Tayshaun Prince
4.
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Victor Oladipo 6-4 214 SG/SF Indiana Jr.Oladipo would be an absolute reach at 4, but when has Charlotte been known for making practical decisions? Oladipo is a late bloomer who draws rave reviews for his demeanor and personality from those who have spent time around him. While he may lack superstar potential, he appears to be the ultimate glue type player as an overachiever who brings boundless energy. His explosiveness is off the charts (42 inch vert at combine), particularly off of two feet and his shooting and ball handling have shown surprising improvement. At 6’4 in shoes, he’s undersized, taking his long term potential down a notch. Some wild comparisons such as Dwyane Wade and even Michael Jordan have been thrown out for Oladipo. But those are unfair for a player who projects as a high level role player, but not a star at the next level. NBA Comparison: Tony Allen
5.
bennettAnthony Bennett 6-7 240 PF UNLV Fr.The Suns are in need of talent and bennett has been talented about as a possible #1 overall pick and gives them an upside pick. Despite being 6’7, Bennett’s wingspan makes him essentially a 6’9 player and he’s got massive shoulders and hands. Bennett wins the award for most vicious dunks in college as he had numerous dunks that reminded fans of Shaq. He lacks the foot speed to defend on the perimeter, essentially making him a stretch 4. Some scouts have even mentioned him as a potential #1 pick, though that’s probably a reach, considering he’s a tweener and the last 6’9 or under PF to go first was Kenyon Martin. Bennett battled injury problems in high school and appeared to be breaking down some towards the end of the year. His post season shoulder surgery reinforces his reputation for being injury prone and has made it impossible for him to work out for teams leading up to the draft. Without the injury concerns he’d likely be a top 5 pick, with them he could slide a few spots. NBA Comparison: Rodney Rogers
6.
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Trey Burke 6-1 190 PG Michigan So.New Orleans will hope that Burke can make the same type of impact that his idol Chris Paul made on the city. Burke’s performance against Kansas was legendary, as he refused to allow his team to lose, coming up with all the big plays down the stretch including a game tying 3 in the final seconds. Burke was not only the top PG in the nation this year, he was the best player in the nation. He carried the Wolverines all season with a will to win that was unmatched on the college level. His 6’5 wingspan helps offset his 6’1 frame giving him some additional length to get shots off. On the negative side, Burke lacks elite level speed and athleticism, making it a challenge for him to gain separation on opponents. While detractors may argue that Burke’s attributes will make the transition to the next level difficult, his "immeasurables"; competitiveness, heart and determination are off the charts. NBA Comparison: Kemba Walker
7.
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zeller
Cody Zeller 7-0 230 PF/C Indiana So.A high character guy like Zeller would be a nice addition to Sacramento’s dysfunctional family. Zeller’s stock took the bigest hit during the NCAA tournament as he looked shell shocked in their Sweet Sixteen loss to Syracuse and their 2-3 zone defense. He failed to live up to the preseason hype and much of the time chose to defer instead of taking on the role of the team’s star. It obviously took a toll on his draft stock, but a tremendous combine has him back on track. His 35.5 inch standing jump is the highest recorded for a bigman in years. Zeller shows the ability to knock down mid range shots with regularity and runs the floor like a gazelle, which is rare for a 7-footer. Unfortunately his post game did not advance the way many expected, although big men take the longest to develop. It’s easy to forget all the positives: Zeller is a 7 footer, he’s 19 years old, a hard worker, and similar to Drummond last year, many seem to have overreacted after he failed to live up to the #1 preseason hype. NBA Comparison: LaMarcus Aldridge
8.
mccollum
CJ McCollum 6-3 197 PG/SG Lehigh Sr.McCollum would pair with Knight in the backcourt and push him as the team’s future starting PG. As a likely first rounder in 2012, some questioned McCollum’s decision to return to campus despite virtually knocking defending champion Duke out of the NCAA tournament single handedly. This year CJ was able to establish himself in many scout’s minds before going down with a season ending broken foot. He’s got a nasty crossover and ISO game, showing a great ability to get defenders on their heels a la Steph Curry, before pulling up for jumpers. There are some concerns surround his ability to play the PG position as well as defend. Despite missing a large portion of the season, McCollum has a real chance to go top 10 and is a sheik pick as the top PG prospect in this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Stephen Curry
9.
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len
Alex Len 7-1 255 C Maryland So. The Timberwolves have a promising young roster and could groom Len behind Pekovic for a few seasons. Len shows the agility to get up and down the floor, make plays at the rim and the touch to knock down shots from mid range. While some may knock his fluidity, toughness and consistency, bigs take time. For a 20 year old who is still adjusting to American culture, being away from Ukraine where he grew up, his sophomore season was excellent. His stress fracture came at a bad time as teams won’t get the chance to see him work out leading up to the draft, but he doesn’t figure to fall very far. Len is the classic boom or bust pick that teams in the mid lottery will be afraid to take as well as not miss on. NBA Comparison: Jonas Valanciunas
10.
saric
Dario Saric 6-10 225 PF Split Croatia 1994The Blazers don’t have a real position of need but a versatile forward such as Saric would help bolster their frontcourt. Saric is an immensely skilled forward who was a point guard in his junior years but due to his growth spurt has become a forward. He lacks the foot speed to defend on the wing which means he must continue to put weight on and become a power forward. He has tremendous ball handling, passing and feel for the game, but whether or not he has the quickness to utilize those skills is the question. He still has a lot of work to do on his jump shot, but his desire to be great makes him one of the top international prospect for this years draft, despite some physical limitations. NBA Comparison: Dejan Bodiroga
11.
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zeller
Kelly Olynyk 7-0 234 C Gonzaga Jr.The Sixers are forced to start over at the center position after trading away a lot of assets for an absolute dud in Andrew Bynum. Olynyk is a little bit similar to Hawes but younger and gives them a skilled big who can contribute right away. He was flying way under the radar before this season, having red shirted last year with Robert Sacre as the team’s starting center. He was arguably the most dominant big in the country and despite Gonzaga’s flame out in the tourney, he was solid. Kelly lacks great athleticism and quickness, but shows the skill set of a 10 year veteran. Olynyk’s ability to defend the pick and roll has led scouts to believe he can make it defensively in the league. He’s got a Euro-style game, but many scouts are convinced that his skill level and size will be enough to overcome a lack of sheer athleticism and become a solid NBA post player. NBA Comparison: Spencer Hawes
12.
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caldwell-popeDennis Schroeder 6-2 168 PG Germany 1993Rumors persist that Schroeder has a promise, and the Thunder are known for utilizing them. Schroeder used a tremendous week in Portland at the Hoop Summit in practices and the game to skyrocket up team’s draft boards. He combines elite level quickness with solid decision making. While his season in Germany was just average, he seems to have made real strides recently. His shot was a little inconsistent throughout the week of practices in Portland, but looked very solid in the game. His ability to handle the ball in traffic is impressive. He’s got an extra gear that allows him to get by defenders any time he wants to. He also possesses good size at the PG position at 6-2 with a 6-7 wingspan. After a great Hoop Summit performance, Schroeder has jumped up into late lotto-mid first round area. NBA Comparison: Darren Collison
13.
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Kentavious Caldwell-Pope 6-6 205 SG Georgia So.With OJ Mayo possibly on the way out a SG that can give them instant scoring like KCP would be a solid addition. KCP is an underrated athlete with the ability to get to the rack as well as create and knock down shots on the perimeter. He doesn’t blow you away in any one area, but he’s a good shooter and scorer. After a freshman season in which he struggled with efficiency, he was able to improve upon his shooting from the floor and beyond the arch. He’ll get looks in the late lottery and should find a spot somewhere in the first round. NBA Comparison: Michael Redd
14.
carter-williams
Michael Carter-Williams 6-6 185 PG Syracuse So.Utah needs a PG and MCW gives them a lot of versatility at the position. Carter-Williams is a true point guard with tremendous size. At 6’6 he reminds some of the high school version of Shawn Livingston that many became so enamored with before his tragic knee injury. Though not quite the talent, MCW’s ability to set teammates up for baskets is special for a player his size. His length, having a near 6’9 wingspan really helps his cause defensively. He has a lot of work to do on his outside shooting and must prove that he can hang with the speed of today’s NBA PGs. He would likely pair well with a small 2-guard like Monta Ellis as he would probably be better suited defending 2 guards while running the point. He’s got some off court baggage (shop lifting incident) that will need to be addressed in interviews with teams. Plus, the track record for Syracuse products has not been great in recent years. He’s another boom or bust pick who could end up a star or not even making it in the league. In a down draft, Carter-Williams has top 10 potential. NBA Comparison: Shaun Livingston
15.ucarter-williamsSteven Adams 7-0 255 C Pittsburgh Fr. Milwaukee has had success taking projects like Larry Sanders, and Adams shows a lot of upside but will take time. Adams was a surprise entry as many felt he needed more time in college to develop his feel for the game and post skills. Adams used a very strong draft combine performance, displaying a surprisingly accurate midrange jumper to likely ensure a place in the top 20, and could even snag a late lotto spot. He is a long term project due to his lack of experience and feel for the game but could really develop into a high level center given time and the right situation. NBA Comparison: Meyers Leonard
16.
shabazz
Shabazz Muhammad 6-6 225 SF UCLA Fr.Boston usually does a good job of maximizing talent at their picks and Shabazz could be highly undervalued by draft night and slip out of the lottery. Credit Shabazz for participating in the combine, unfortunately his sub par shooting did not help his cause. This is a little low for him, but scouts aren’t sure what he brings a team if he’s asked to be a role player. He’s got the desire but has a lot of skill development left to work on. Shabazz had a rough ending to the season with the report coming out that he’s actually 20 instead of 19 as his father had purported. He also struggled in UCLA’s tourney loss to Minnesota shooting 6-for-18. But he’s still one of the most talented prospects in this year’s draft with a killer instinct and high level scoring ability. He has turned living with Tourette Syndrome into a positive as he plays with a chip on his shoulder exerting a high level of intensity at all times. Detractors point to his less than 1 assist per game, labeling him one dimensional and even a "ball hog". His character and abilities on the court could ultimately be undervalued by the time the draft takes place. NBA Comparison: Nick Young
17.
plumlee
Mason Plumlee 6-11 238 PF Duke Sr.With back to back picks the surprise playoff team, Atlanta Hawks address their frontcourt with Mason Plumlee. Plumlee was one of the surprises in college this year, but may slip to the teens due to his case of "senior-itis" Similar to last year with Tyler Zeller, younger prospects with more perceived upside may ultimately push the senior into the second half of the first round. He added some offensive skills around the basket, and played the year with surprising consistency. He is a better version of his brother Miles who somehow landed in the late first round in 2012. While he’s not overly skilled in the post, he shows nice explosiveness, runs the floor well and shows a willingness to fight for rebounds and play tough in the paint. In such a weak draft, Plumlee figures to land in the teens. NBA Comparison: Yi Jianlian
18.
nogueira
Lucas Nogueira 7-0 220 PF Brazil 1992Bebe would give the Hawks the ability to bring him over right away or allow him to develop for another season in Spain. Nogueira is extremely raw, but players with his size and agility are rare. He had a breakout performance at the Copa America U18 tournament in 2010 and some NBA scouts came away saying he had top 5 pick potential. He lost most of that hype with a dreadful showing at the 2011 adidas Eurocamp in Treviso, but has a huge bounce back season playing in Spain for Estudiantes. "Bebe" developed a reputation for being soft and lazy, but this season he showed dedication and maturity that had been lacking from his game. For him, it’s just a matter of becoming more aggressive and maintaining his focus. Bebe has proven himself in the ACB, Europe’s best national league and has become our top International prospect for this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Samuel Dalembert
19.
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rossTony Snell 6-7 198 SG/SF New Mexico Jr.The Cavs won the lottery and can add a position of need here with a wing like Snell. He is a player that has been steadily moving up team’s boards since declaring for the draft. He had better than expected athleticism numbers at the draft combine and shows excellent ability to knock down outside shots as well as find open looks off the dribble. He’s an unselfish player with upside left to develop and just needs to work on his level of intensity and consistency. NBA Comparison: Wesley Person
20.
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Giannis Adetokoubo 6-9 205 SF/PF Greece 1994The Bulls have European forward Nikola Mirotic still playing in Europe and could look for another player to draft and stash to keep off their books this year. Adetokoubo is this year’s "International man of mystery". He’s got a tremendous basketball body and some wicked highlights on youtube. The problem for him and scouts is that the level of competition that he’s played at at is very low, considered by scouts as the equivalent to Div 2-3 college ball. So getting an accurate gauge of his talent and potential is difficult. He’ll need to improve upon his shooting, but he’s said to be further along than Batum at the same age and he’s a similar type of athletic specimen. NBA Comparison: Nicolas Batum
21.
rossShane Larkin 5-11 171 PG Miami So.Larkin would be doubling up at the position but he would be a value pick and insurance in case the boom or bust MCW selection doesn’t go smoothly. Larkin recorded the highest vertical leap ever at the draft combine with a 44 inch running jump. He was not far behind Trey Burke in terms of being a team leader and floor general on the college level and there are a number of scouts that actually prefer Larkin to Burke as a prospect. Larkin lacks Burke’s resume and size, but shows much better isolation and separation ability off the dribble. As the son of hall of fame shortstop Barry Larkin, Shane has the pedigree to overcome a significant lack of size. NBA Comparison: DJ Augustin
22.
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rossRudy Gobert 7-2 238 C France 1992The Nets have cap concerns and could look for a European with the possibility to keep him overseas, or trade out. Gobert failed to impress at the draft combine as he looked mechanical and slow running the floor. He has ridiculous length with a 7-foot-9 wingspan. He also possesses good shooting touch and appears to have a body that will allow him to add strength and eventually battle in the paint in the NBA.He struggled to put up consistent numbers in the French League. So the question is whether teams will be willing to look past the lack of productivity and draft him on potential. His mobility and athleticism are average by NBA standards and he still needs to get tougher and develop a better feel for the game. The concern with Gobert is whether he has the speed and agility in an NBA where quickness often trumps size. NBA Comparison: Shawn Bradley
23.
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hardaway
Tim Hardaway Jr 6-6 200 SG Michigan Jr.The Pacers are in pretty good shape at all positions and with Paul George and Lance Stephenson’s emergence aren’t in need of a young wing, but Hardaway would add depth and shooting on the perimeter. Hardaway Jr. shows mental toughness and consistent effort at all times. He has a well developed offensive game with good elevation and form on his shot. The big knock on him has always been foot speed as he lacks a great first step to beat opponents off the dribble. He grew up around the game, and that is apparent with his focus and feel. Hardaway lacks great upside and is seen as a likely rotation player, but his toughness and professional approach gives him a After a strong combine, his first round chances continue to improve. NBA Comparison: Shandon Anderson
24.
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hardawayGorgui Dieng 6-11 230 PF/C Louisville Jr.Dieng would help add depth to an aging frontcourt that battled through injuries all year with Tyson Chandler and Amare Stoudemire. Dieng benefited from Louisville’s deep tourney run, as he was able to display the ability to consistently knock down mid range shots. While not a speed burner, he shows good defensive abilities, particularly in blocking shots. Dieng missed a portion of the year with a fractured wrist, but his return coincided with the team’s resurgence as he anchored Louisville’s interior defense. His condor like 7’3.5 wingspan makes him a formidable obstacle around the basket. NBA Comparison: Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje
25.
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Allen Crabbe 6-6 197 SG California Jr.The Clips could use some additional firepower off the bench and Crabbe has nice scoring ability. The Pac 12 player of the year, Crabbe has a sweet outside shooting stroke and solid athleticism. He also possesses good size for the 2-guard position. The biggest knock against him has been his toughness, level of intensity and consistency. He had a solid finish to the year, leading Cal into the second round of the tourney, but it seems that he’s a player that needs a push (or shove) to motivate him. He’s not considered a self starter, so landing in the right situation and having coaches and people around him that will facilitate his development will be key. Crabbe didn’t always display the best body language and showing that he’s a team player with a positive attitude in will be paramount. He’ll need to do well in individual match ups in team workouts in order to convince scouts that he’s a legitimate first rounder for this year’s draft. NBA Comparison: Francisco Garcia
26.
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witheyTony Mitchell 2586 6-9 236 SF/PF North Texas So.Minnesota could look for an upside pick here, and while Mitchell is more of a 4, he would like to transition to the 3 spot. He surprised many by returning to North Texas and was unable to enhance his draft stock. Mitchell struggled to improve upon his freshman season, putting up essentially the same numbers as a FR and fell from his lofty preseason projections. He is a unique player as he combines freakish length (7-foot-3 wingspan) and explosiveness. He seems to be convinced that he’s a 3, and despite his chiseled physique, apparently does not enjoy battling in the paint. NBA Comparison: Thomas Robinson
27.
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witheyErick Green 6-3 180 PG/SG Virginia Tech Sr.The Nuggets have a deep and talented roster and could look for a Euro stash pick here. Green would give them more perimeter offensive firepower off the bench. The leading scorer in the country at 25 ppg, Green was forced to shoot a ton as he didn’t have much help playing at Virginia Tech. He was not asked to be a distributor, so the question is just how much of a point guard he is. He showed some ability to play the position earlier in his college career, and some scouts really like him. He’s a combo guard and lacks ideal size/athleticism if he’s forced to play the 2 position. NBA Comparison: Delonte West
28.
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witheySergey Karasev 6-7 197 SG/SF Russia 1993Sticking with their long Euro theme, Karasev is in the mold of a Danny Green and could come over in a couple seasons after working on his body. Already has Olympic experience playing for the Russian National team in London. Karasev did not have a great Hoop Summit shooting just 1-6 from distance, (3-10 overall for 7 pts) but his outside shooting impressed scouts all week and he had a breakout season playing in Russia, as the top player on his team. He lacks great speed and may struggle defensively with slow feet, but he’s a decent athlete and shows some ability to get to the basket off the dribble as he did against top defender Rondae Hollis-Jefferson early on in the Hoop Summit. His jump shot, while a bit unorthodox is his biggest strength and should have him in position to grab a late first round spot. His English is good, and he seems to have the type of personality that will allow him to adjust to American culture without much of an issue. NBA Comparison: Danny Green
29.
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witheyDeShaun Thomas 6-7 220 SF/PF Ohio State Jr.OKC needs immediate contributors as a contender, and Thomas fits the bill as a guy that could come in and provide scoring right away. Thomas doesn’t have great athleticism or foot speed. In fact his movements resemble a creaky old NBA veteran who is in his 12th season. But he’s such a tremendous scorer that he’s getting first round buzz from scouts. He was considered a top prospect in his class throughout high school and had a prolific college career. There are legitimate concerns about how well his game will translate as he plays like an undersized, stretch 4, but his ability to get "buckets" and score points can’t be overlooked. NBA Comparison: Ryan Gomes
30.witheyJamaal Franklin 6-5 191 SG/SF San Diego St. Jr.The Suns take a somewhat local guy as SD and PHX are a hop and a skip away, and Franklin offers energy and athleticism to a team in need of talent. Franklin is a bit of a 2/3, showing better ability to slash and affect the game with his athleticism than smooth guard skills, but competes hard. Some concerns linger about character and attitude exist with an incident flipping off a fan and/or referee have him on the first round bubble. NBA Comparison: Will Barton

 

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46 Comments

  1. Why would the Thunder take
    Why would the Thunder take Schroeder when they have Westbrook coming back healthy next year and Reggie Jackson playing behind him?

    The Suns taking Bennett at 5 is one of my deepest fears.

    • because when westbrook is
      because when westbrook is injured theres nobody coming in behind reggie jackson.. who also isnt that great of a playmaker.

      with the cavaliers lacking bigtime in interior defense, theres just simply no way they do not take nerlens noel.

      also, i PERSONALLY still think cody zeller is the best player in this draft (debatable between him and mclemore) and i dont think he will fall past the pelicans.

  2. Why would the Thunder take
    Why would the Thunder take Schroeder when they have Westbrook coming back healthy next year and Reggie Jackson playing behind him?

    The Suns taking Bennett at 5 is one of my deepest fears.

    • because when westbrook is
      because when westbrook is injured theres nobody coming in behind reggie jackson.. who also isnt that great of a playmaker.

      with the cavaliers lacking bigtime in interior defense, theres just simply no way they do not take nerlens noel.

      also, i PERSONALLY still think cody zeller is the best player in this draft (debatable between him and mclemore) and i dont think he will fall past the pelicans.

  3. I agree with Chilbert, I’d
    I agree with Chilbert, I’d actually switch Bennett and Oladipo.

    The Bobcats have limited floor spacing already with MKG, who is a slasher whos jumpshot is still a work in progress. Gerald Henderson, should he return, is also better when attacking the basket. And while Kemba Walker can shoot at times, he too is best using his speed and getting inside the paint. Oladipo is certainly an improved shooter, but I still don’t think he’s quite consistent enough to spread the floor. A Walker-Oladipo-Kidd-Gilchrist perimeter tandem would have very limited effectiveness from deep, unless they suddenly improved their shooting drastically. Add to that Biyombo can’t hit much from outside of 6 feet, and the only real threat from deep is Byron Mullens, who is streaky and inconsistent at best. I think they’d be better taking Bennett. Henderson can hold the SG spot down a while longer, and Charlotte lacks both perimeter scorers and a low post threat. Bennett could improve both. He’d come in and already be their best low post scorer. Tyrus Thomas is athletic, and can occassionally hit the mid range jumper, but is way to thin. Branden Haywood is a shell of his former self, and Biyombo has yet to develop an offensive game. Byron Mullens is more of a stretch four who seems afraid of contact, although he has improved a bit. While giving them a guy they can throw the ball to down low, he’d also help some floor spacing, and add to their frontcourt depth all at the same time (The Bobcats won’t play Thomas big minutes, and Haywood is at the twilight of his career and I doubt he could play big minutes anymore)

    Ben Mclemore is the best possible addition for Charlotte, but I think Bennett is second. In all honesty, dropping to four might not be so bad for Charlotte. They can take Bennett, and then hope for a stroke of luck to land a top 5 pick next season.

    Also, Oladipo would fit well in Phoenix. This team needs some sort of shot in the arm. They have some guys who can score, and some talent, but they don’t play with much motivation and they’re pretty bad defensively. Oladipo wouldn’t turn the franchise around talent wise, but he could help change the culture and the way this team plays. There’s few franchise changers in this draft anyways, so why not take Oladipo and then have a chance at pairing him with Wiggins or Parker next season, they’d offput each other well at the wings. Victor Oladipo would give them a culture changer, a defensive stopper that they don’t have on the perimeter, and an upgrade over the group of average veteran wing players they have.

  4. I agree with Chilbert, I’d
    I agree with Chilbert, I’d actually switch Bennett and Oladipo.

    The Bobcats have limited floor spacing already with MKG, who is a slasher whos jumpshot is still a work in progress. Gerald Henderson, should he return, is also better when attacking the basket. And while Kemba Walker can shoot at times, he too is best using his speed and getting inside the paint. Oladipo is certainly an improved shooter, but I still don’t think he’s quite consistent enough to spread the floor. A Walker-Oladipo-Kidd-Gilchrist perimeter tandem would have very limited effectiveness from deep, unless they suddenly improved their shooting drastically. Add to that Biyombo can’t hit much from outside of 6 feet, and the only real threat from deep is Byron Mullens, who is streaky and inconsistent at best. I think they’d be better taking Bennett. Henderson can hold the SG spot down a while longer, and Charlotte lacks both perimeter scorers and a low post threat. Bennett could improve both. He’d come in and already be their best low post scorer. Tyrus Thomas is athletic, and can occassionally hit the mid range jumper, but is way to thin. Branden Haywood is a shell of his former self, and Biyombo has yet to develop an offensive game. Byron Mullens is more of a stretch four who seems afraid of contact, although he has improved a bit. While giving them a guy they can throw the ball to down low, he’d also help some floor spacing, and add to their frontcourt depth all at the same time (The Bobcats won’t play Thomas big minutes, and Haywood is at the twilight of his career and I doubt he could play big minutes anymore)

    Ben Mclemore is the best possible addition for Charlotte, but I think Bennett is second. In all honesty, dropping to four might not be so bad for Charlotte. They can take Bennett, and then hope for a stroke of luck to land a top 5 pick next season.

    Also, Oladipo would fit well in Phoenix. This team needs some sort of shot in the arm. They have some guys who can score, and some talent, but they don’t play with much motivation and they’re pretty bad defensively. Oladipo wouldn’t turn the franchise around talent wise, but he could help change the culture and the way this team plays. There’s few franchise changers in this draft anyways, so why not take Oladipo and then have a chance at pairing him with Wiggins or Parker next season, they’d offput each other well at the wings. Victor Oladipo would give them a culture changer, a defensive stopper that they don’t have on the perimeter, and an upgrade over the group of average veteran wing players they have.

  5. There is no way the
    There is no way the timberwolves would take tony mitchell if karasev was there and they took len with their first pick and they would probably a go KCP before they would take a big man, if they could get him or mccollum and karasev that would be a pretty good draft for them because they need shooting and wings and they could go with a draft and stash big man in the second round.

  6. There is no way the
    There is no way the timberwolves would take tony mitchell if karasev was there and they took len with their first pick and they would probably a go KCP before they would take a big man, if they could get him or mccollum and karasev that would be a pretty good draft for them because they need shooting and wings and they could go with a draft and stash big man in the second round.

  7. Anthony Bennett to the suns?
    C’mon sun! This has to be the worst mock draft I’ve seen. Why would they take Bennett when you already have the Morris twins and Beasley who are twiners? Pistons take another point guard? I doubt it. Bucks took Larry Sanders and John Henson the last two drafts why would they draft another big? They need a guard because they are losing there back court.

  8. Anthony Bennett to the suns?
    C’mon sun! This has to be the worst mock draft I’ve seen. Why would they take Bennett when you already have the Morris twins and Beasley who are twiners? Pistons take another point guard? I doubt it. Bucks took Larry Sanders and John Henson the last two drafts why would they draft another big? They need a guard because they are losing there back court.

  9. Mock draft started terrible
    Mock draft started terrible with the first pick. It got gradually worse, not addressing team needs and just being random as hell.

    • Mock Crap
      I agree, my spurs will most definitely take Jamaal Franklin if available he’d fit right in with his former running mate Kawhi, this is by far the most upsetting mock in reference to spurs nation!

  10. Mock draft started terrible
    Mock draft started terrible with the first pick. It got gradually worse, not addressing team needs and just being random as hell.

    • Mock Crap
      I agree, my spurs will most definitely take Jamaal Franklin if available he’d fit right in with his former running mate Kawhi, this is by far the most upsetting mock in reference to spurs nation!

  11. how can adetokoubo be
    how can adetokoubo be compared to batum … ? except he’s long, athletic and european

    at the same age batum was playing against proven well known competition (euroleague, proA) in a very performing team (Le Mans at that time was more competitive)

  12. how can adetokoubo be
    how can adetokoubo be compared to batum … ? except he’s long, athletic and european

    at the same age batum was playing against proven well known competition (euroleague, proA) in a very performing team (Le Mans at that time was more competitive)

  13. I actually really like the
    I actually really like the McLemore pick at #1 for the Cavs. Waiters is best suited as a 6th man, and he can have the ball in his hands more with Kyrie on the bench. Also, when Kyrie is in, he can have the ball in his hands and set McLemore up. McLemore isn’t a self shot creator yet, but his outside shot is pretty money.

    Wait until next year to beef up the front line and get a low post scorer. Or obtain that through free agency. I just don’t think the Cavs need another defensive minded big man who can’t score.

  14. I actually really like the
    I actually really like the McLemore pick at #1 for the Cavs. Waiters is best suited as a 6th man, and he can have the ball in his hands more with Kyrie on the bench. Also, when Kyrie is in, he can have the ball in his hands and set McLemore up. McLemore isn’t a self shot creator yet, but his outside shot is pretty money.

    Wait until next year to beef up the front line and get a low post scorer. Or obtain that through free agency. I just don’t think the Cavs need another defensive minded big man who can’t score.

  15. Jazz
    The Jazz have made it abundantly clear that they want a PG that can spread the floor for them. MCW is not that PG and he becomes incredibly redundant with Burks on the floor.

    I also agree that I don’t see the Thunder taking any PG in the draft. If they have a weakness it is big men and this draft is loaded with them. Gobert, Adams or Olynyk make more sense than a wing or PG.

  16. Jazz
    The Jazz have made it abundantly clear that they want a PG that can spread the floor for them. MCW is not that PG and he becomes incredibly redundant with Burks on the floor.

    I also agree that I don’t see the Thunder taking any PG in the draft. If they have a weakness it is big men and this draft is loaded with them. Gobert, Adams or Olynyk make more sense than a wing or PG.

  17. funny how strong people’s
    funny how strong people’s opinions are. I remember last year I said austin rivers wasnt elite….and i got endless grief. Well, I say the same about Burke this year. Nice player…but boy is he being overdrafted. Seems to me Charlotte needs a big……they might bite on Len. I think magic might take Olidipo….. getting a stopper is going to appeal to henigan and vaughn. I think Adams goes even higher. And Schroder…..man…..i love schroder….a little Rondo……and i can see him surprising everyone and going even higher. Does boston really want a Shabaaz? A high volume selfish shooter? If adams were there, they take him…but i can see a lot of other options other than shabaaz……Karasev for one……and i dont see Olynyk being worth this high a pick. I get he can score i guess….but man, he wont rebound and he’s not strong enough to really be effective defensively.

  18. funny how strong people’s
    funny how strong people’s opinions are. I remember last year I said austin rivers wasnt elite….and i got endless grief. Well, I say the same about Burke this year. Nice player…but boy is he being overdrafted. Seems to me Charlotte needs a big……they might bite on Len. I think magic might take Olidipo….. getting a stopper is going to appeal to henigan and vaughn. I think Adams goes even higher. And Schroder…..man…..i love schroder….a little Rondo……and i can see him surprising everyone and going even higher. Does boston really want a Shabaaz? A high volume selfish shooter? If adams were there, they take him…but i can see a lot of other options other than shabaaz……Karasev for one……and i dont see Olynyk being worth this high a pick. I get he can score i guess….but man, he wont rebound and he’s not strong enough to really be effective defensively.

  19. where to start…
    irving and waitors are the future…why mess up the chemistry by drafting mclemore? sounds like the recipe the kings used…out of the box thought is that they trade the pick, move a couple spots lower for a 2nd round or future 2nd rounder and pick otto porter.

    bennett to the suns is probably not going to happen. like the guy above said, suns got morris twins and beasley. i would think mccollum, zeller or len there.

    schroeder to okc…doubtful. i would think they go for a center or sg with perk’s lack of production and kevin martin leaving. schroeder to utah.

    bucks need someone that can shoot or score, not named ellis or jennings. taking on larry sanders jr. is not going to help the frontcourt. i would say crabbe, snell or karasev.

    bulls showed in the playoffs that adding depth is a big need. guessing they pick someone that can log some minutes, not a TOTAL euro project. adetokoubo to the nuggs, spurs or okc.

    nuggs are getting a shooter or a euro guy. they don’t need a combo guard.

    jamal franklin falling all the way to 30 seems pretty intense.

  20. where to start…
    irving and waitors are the future…why mess up the chemistry by drafting mclemore? sounds like the recipe the kings used…out of the box thought is that they trade the pick, move a couple spots lower for a 2nd round or future 2nd rounder and pick otto porter.

    bennett to the suns is probably not going to happen. like the guy above said, suns got morris twins and beasley. i would think mccollum, zeller or len there.

    schroeder to okc…doubtful. i would think they go for a center or sg with perk’s lack of production and kevin martin leaving. schroeder to utah.

    bucks need someone that can shoot or score, not named ellis or jennings. taking on larry sanders jr. is not going to help the frontcourt. i would say crabbe, snell or karasev.

    bulls showed in the playoffs that adding depth is a big need. guessing they pick someone that can log some minutes, not a TOTAL euro project. adetokoubo to the nuggs, spurs or okc.

    nuggs are getting a shooter or a euro guy. they don’t need a combo guard.

    jamal franklin falling all the way to 30 seems pretty intense.

  21. one other thought. The
    one other thought. The comparisons are pretty lame. Adams is meyers leonard…..really? Id say Bogut is better. And Plumlee is Yi? thats just nuts. Why not say bob cousy? Or nate archibald. Plumlee is actually hard to find a comparison for, though. I think a better kris humphries…plum is a lot more mobile….or maybe nick collinson. None of them fit quite.

    oh and suns take bennett because they want to get rid of Beasley, who is too high maintenance (psycho) and the morris twins are twin busts.

  22. one other thought. The
    one other thought. The comparisons are pretty lame. Adams is meyers leonard…..really? Id say Bogut is better. And Plumlee is Yi? thats just nuts. Why not say bob cousy? Or nate archibald. Plumlee is actually hard to find a comparison for, though. I think a better kris humphries…plum is a lot more mobile….or maybe nick collinson. None of them fit quite.

    oh and suns take bennett because they want to get rid of Beasley, who is too high maintenance (psycho) and the morris twins are twin busts.

  23. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!
    So the bucks just drafted Henson last year and Sanders 2 years ago; and now sanders is one of the better shot blockers in the league and you have them picking a center at #15 while shebazz muhammad is at #16?!?!?!?!?!!?! If Muhammad does fall to them they are undoubtedly picking him…. anyones an upgrade from dunleavy and mbah a moute. Plus, he has one of the highest ceilings in the draft

  24. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!
    So the bucks just drafted Henson last year and Sanders 2 years ago; and now sanders is one of the better shot blockers in the league and you have them picking a center at #15 while shebazz muhammad is at #16?!?!?!?!?!!?! If Muhammad does fall to them they are undoubtedly picking him…. anyones an upgrade from dunleavy and mbah a moute. Plus, he has one of the highest ceilings in the draft

  25. Hmm
    McLemore number 1? I

    Hmm
    McLemore number 1? I doubt it but at least that’s feasible.
    I doubt the Wolves look at Len at 9 unless they don’t intend to resign Pek. They really need a SG and KCP fits the bill.
    Schroeder looks good but I expect his guarantee is from Dallas or Utah who are both in need of a PG. I expect OKC to nab a C so they can eventually move on from Perkins. Gobert or Adams makes a ton of sense there.
    Where is Glen Rice Jr?

  26. Hmm
    McLemore number 1? I

    Hmm
    McLemore number 1? I doubt it but at least that’s feasible.
    I doubt the Wolves look at Len at 9 unless they don’t intend to resign Pek. They really need a SG and KCP fits the bill.
    Schroeder looks good but I expect his guarantee is from Dallas or Utah who are both in need of a PG. I expect OKC to nab a C so they can eventually move on from Perkins. Gobert or Adams makes a ton of sense there.
    Where is Glen Rice Jr?

  27. Plumlee is not a scorer
    But I like his game on the C’s he would be good at 16. Bazz to the C’s at 16 would mean mistakes were made. Little higher on him then that.

  28. Plumlee is not a scorer
    But I like his game on the C’s he would be good at 16. Bazz to the C’s at 16 would mean mistakes were made. Little higher on him then that.

  29. NBA draft
    Everyone on this site seems fixated on how a player fits a teams roster… 95% of teams at the top of the draft need to draft the best player available or they wouldn’t be in the lottery in the first place.

  30. NBA draft
    Everyone on this site seems fixated on how a player fits a teams roster… 95% of teams at the top of the draft need to draft the best player available or they wouldn’t be in the lottery in the first place.

  31. The cavs shouldn’t take
    The cavs shouldn’t take McLemore first. I would definetly consider trading the pick or taking the best player on our big board. It could be someone that isn’t even mocked.

  32. The cavs shouldn’t take
    The cavs shouldn’t take McLemore first. I would definetly consider trading the pick or taking the best player on our big board. It could be someone that isn’t even mocked.

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