"Hoops Assassin" by The Sportz Assassin

EASTERN CONFERENCE PREVIEW

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 07:11:49 GMT

CHAMPIONSHIP MATERIAL

1-MIAMI HEAT: Miami is the defending champ and this will be, most likely, Pat Riley's last hurrah [and maybe even Shaq's]. This team has talent....but isn't the most disciplined. Last year, they really didn't wow anyone during the season but looked like a champion in the playoffs. Of course, if Dwayne Wade keeps getting those calls....he'll be unstoppable. The same should happen this year. They essentially have the exact same roster; that aging roster who played so hard in the postseason to win rings. Will they have the same hunger??

2-DETROIT PISTONS: Losing Ben Wallace hurts this team who was known for their defensive intensity. But this should enable coach Flip Saunders to open up the offense a bit. They'll play more zone [Flip's favorite] which is both unpopular and necessary for a team that has limited depth. They key will be how Rasheed Wallace performs this year. He was a perimeter guy last year but is needed more in the paint. If he buys in, the Pistons can get back to the Finals.

3-CLEVELAND CAVALIERS: Yeah, I'm sold on LeBron. He has improved immensely in each of his first three seasons and has the tools to carry his team deep into the playoffs. Last year, he gained that postseason experience that he didn't shy away from. He seemed to thrive in it. That hunger and that will combined with an underrated frontcourt can do some damage. The key will be the backcourt...namely Larry Hughes....and if they can stay healthy and learn to play off LeBron. It will take career years from everyone to bring a title this season....but it could very well happen.

NOT QUITE CHAMPIONSHIP MATERIAL

4-CHICAGO BULLS: I'm not ready to crown their butts yet. Yeah, they improved slightly with Ben Wallace....but this was already one of the NBA's best defensive teams. Actually, the move could hurt the Bulls on offense, which, at times, struggled to figure out where it's points were coming from anyways. Wallace doesn't look to score and is a horrible FT shooter. That will allow teams to play off of Wallace and make scoring even harder. Still, they are young and may be more inclined to run the ball a lot...something they can do with their defense creating opportunities. They are still a year or two off...but the Wallace signing could hinder their ability to add onto their team...or even keep the guys they already have.

5-NEW JERSEY NETS: The Nets are essentially made up of Jason Kidd, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson. That's it. The frontcourt is lame and the bench is weak. But if those three are on....anything can happen. The Nets should navigate thru the Atlantic Division just fine...so they'll get a top four seeding in the playoffs. But the team has issues at times when Jason Kidd looks like a 50 yr old man; Vince's head is out of the game; Jefferson is relied on taking a game over. None of them are great perimeter shooters....meaning that no one on the team is. Again, they win the Atlantic and get bounced before the conference finals.

FILLING THE PLAYOFF BRACKET

6-WASHINGTON WIZARDS: The Wiz can score at will...and they need to as their defense sucks. Still, they have one of the sleeper players in the NBA, Gil Arenas, who can take games over at times. He can also shoot themselves out of games. Is he another Dwayne Wade or Allen Iverson?? He does have some help, as Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler bring wing scoring. Too bad they can't score inside...or defend there either. They will do the typical Wiz thing: sneak into the playoffs and scare the pants off of whomever they play....but ultimately fizzle out.

7-INDIANA PACERS: They have talent...but they have so many more problems. Jamaal Tinsley can't stay healthy; Stephen Jackson's strip club tussle will linger for a while; and still forcing Jermaine O'Neal to play the center position. Adding Al Harrington helps their scoring and toughness inside....but this team is in desperate need of a leader.

WESTERN CONFERENCE PREVIEW

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 04:20:57 GMT

RIP Red Auerbach

Sun, 29 Oct 2006 09:39:37 GMT

Red Auerbach has passed away at the age of 89.

As a Laker fan, I have nothing but the utmost respect for Red, who led those "evil" Celtics into one of sports' biggest dynasties. His Celtics teams were indeed stacked....but he's the one who stacked them. Not only did he see the talent...he got the most out of it. He dealt for Bill Russell and made a black player the star of Boston....that's Boston....and even turned him into the NBA's first black coach. He drafted Larry Bird a year before he'd get to play a game for him.

He is one of the cornerstones of the NBA. Without him, who knows where the NBA would be?? One of the best innovators and teachers of the sport, Auerbach knew the game as if he invented it. His teams ran, ran, ran, ran back when everyone else was playing "Hoosiers Ball" and working for a good shot. He completely managed his team...as the coach, teacher and front office. If he wanted you....he'd get you.

He also brought the smug to the NBA....lighting up his "victory cigar" when the game was in hand.

He, along with Phil Jackson, have won 9 NBA titles as a head coach....most all time. When he retired, he led the NBA in coaching victories. Since then, six guys have passed him [and a 7th, Phil Jackson, could do so next year]. But none have the impact on the game that Red had. If Jerry West is "the logo"....then Red is "the king". I mean, how can the NBA go on without Red around it??

He made stable a league and a franchise that was unstable during the early days of the NBA. Teams were folding and moving, but Red's Celtics [along with New York's Knicks and George Mikan's Lakers] were the gems of the league. I've always felt that parity is great in sports....but what leagues really need is a constant champion presence to either love or hate. You love or hate the Celtics just as you love or hate the Yankees or Cowboys.

Now, I am too young to have been around when Red was actually coaching the Celtics. But in my early years, I remember Red's little segments showing different aspects to playing basketball [I was always amazed at how much he knew about spacing] and his fingerprints all over the league...including, ironically, my Showtime Lakers.

A Laker buddy of mine, LBerg, said it best:

"He was a pivotal figure in the evolution of the pro game and his innovations and greatness are unquestionable. He was the architect and guiding hand of championship Celtics teams in four consecutive decades. He had the foresight to work creatively to procure the Celtics' the playing rights to Bill Russell and Larry Bird, two of the greatest players in the history of the sport, as well as John Havlicek and Dave Cowens, the cornerstones of the two Celtic championship teams (and a couple of others that barely missed, notably the 68 win team of 1973 that was derailed in the ECF when Havlicek's right shoulder was separated) of the 1970s. Havlicek of course had also been instrumental on some of the Celts' title teams of the 60s as well. Love him or hate him (and his arrogance usually had me leaning toward the latter), there is no denying the greatness of Arnold "Red" Auerbach. The sport was richer for his presence and is now poorer for his loss."

My condolansces to the Celtics family and fans.

Kobe v Adu

Sat, 09 Sep 2006 09:29:22 GMT

Yes, it is just in jest....but cool nonetheless. Freddy Adu is being filmed challenging Kobe Bryant. Kobe gets a whiff on the challenge and smacks back. However, the person who gets punked the best is someone who isn't even in the video......Steve Nash,

Kobe: "I'm talking about jumpin' over you, nasty....like vicious......I mean Steve Nash vicious!"

ROFLMAO!!!!!!

USA Leaves Japan Without Gold

Sat, 09 Sep 2006 09:22:27 GMT

Coach K got Team USA to the Final Four....and then did the typical Coach K-led laydown once they got there. I will say that I am disappointed that K didn't call a timeout....let Kirk Hinrich come off the floor....and give him a tear filled hug near centercourt.

Oh, Greece beat Team USA 101-95 in the semifinals of the World Basketball Championships.

Many people could expect a loss from Spain or Argentina in the gold medal round....but Greece? Well, Greece has been one of the top European leagues for some time....and won the European championship in 2005. The difference there is that they don't give a crap about coming over here to play. There are ZERO current NBA players on the Greek roster.

And that is what should scare Americans the most. I keep hearing "the gap is closing" when talking about international basketball. The truth is: there is no gap. None. How can there be?? The last thing the Americans won was the 2002 Olympics in Sydney....and that was by just a smidge. In 2002, the Americans placed an embarrassing 6th place in the FIBA World Championships [held in Indianapolis]....and finished with the bronze in the 2004 Athens Olympics.

In the meantime, these other countries have gotten good. Really good. The knock on foreign teams in the past is that they were robotic, less physical and not good at defense. That has all changed. Now, they have lightning quick guards, bruising bodies who aren't scared to be physical, and play solid team defense.

The NBA has international players sprinkled all over the place. And they aren't even those other country's stars, either. Back in the day, if a guy had NBA experience, he was a legend. Now, he could ride the bench [Ronny Turiaf of the Lakers, for example, saw limited minutes for France].

So, it is back to the old USA for the hoops team [well, after they probably lose to an excellent Argentina team in the bronze medal game]. The guys will go back to their home teamsbefore having to go to Venezuela in 2008 to qualify for the Olympics. QUALIFY for the Olympics!!!

NBA WESTERN CONFERENCE OFFSEASON MOVES

Sat, 01 Jul 2006 10:08:10 GMT

SOUTHWEST DIVISION

DALLAS MAVERICKS:
ADD: SF/PF Austin Croshere, PG Anthony Johnson, SF Devean George, SG Greg Buckner, SG Maurice Ager, PF Pops Mensah Bonsu.
LOST: SF/SG Marquis Daniels, SG/SF Adrian Griffin, PG Darrell Armstrong, SF Josh Powell, SG/SF Rawle Marshall, C Pavel Podkolzin
Dealing Daniels for Croshere seems to be a minor move....Daniels was an expensive bench guy that wasn't getting minutes. But the fact they also lose Griffin means they really like Ager to come in and take those minutes as a rookie. And the Mavs signed Buckner who can do most of the same stuff. Croshere adds a bit more depth at the KVH position, provided he doesn't return. So does George, who also provides championship experience from his time with the Lakers. The Mavs also added Johnson, who gives the Mavs the ability to move Jason Terry to the off guard for stretches. And all it cost them was two young guys [Powell, Marshall] and the aging Armstrong. Losing Podkolzin isn't a big deal at all.

HOUSTON ROCKETS:
ADD:  SF Shane Battier, SF Steve Novak, SF Lior Eliyahu, SG Kirk Snyder, PG John Lucas III, PG Vassillis Spanoulis, SG Kelenna Azubukie
LOST:  PF Stromile Swift, PG/SG David Wesley, SG Keith Bogans, F Maciej Lampe
I may be the only person who completely hates Houston's draft. They essentially traded Rudy Gay [who they drafted] and Swift for Battier. Huh? Then they draft Novak. I like what those guys can do....hit open shots...which will be key playing alongside Yao Ming. Butthe price Houston paid to get Battier was too high. Not to mention that the Rockets only athletic player is now T-Mac. Battier may be a great defender, but isn't an athletic offensive player. They dealt away two great athletes in Gay and Swift and gain two stand still jump shooters. And they didn't even address their biggest need of a point guard.  Eliyahu may be able to sniff the NBA. Houston also dealt for Kirk Snyder and let Wesley walk. Spanoulis set a record for largest initial contract for a 2nd round pick.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES:
ADD: PF Stromile Swift, SF Rudy Gay, PG Kyle Lowry, PF Alexander Johnson, PF Junior Harrington
LOST: SF Shane Battier, PG Bobby Jackson, C Lorenzen Wright
They dealt away Battier for Gay and Swift, meaning they did lose their best defender but got two awesome athletes. Swift has been disappointing with both Memphis and Houston, but could be back in the saddle if Memphis decides to use their new found athleticsm to run a bit more. Lowry helps that aspect too, and brings depth to the point guard spot since Bobby Jackson left for N'Awlins. Johnson could make the team if he concentrates onhis rebounding abilities. Still, the team hasn't found a center yet [they let Wright leave]...and must keep Pau Gasol there until they do.

NEW ORLEANS HORNETS:
ADD: SF Peja Stojakovic, C/PF Tyson Chandler, PG Bobby Jackson, C Hilton Armstrong, PF Cedric Simmons, PG Jannero Pargo, SF Marcus Vinicius Vieira de Souza.
LOST: C/PF PJ Brown, SG JR Smith, PG Speedy Claxton, SG Arvydas Macijuaskas, SG Moochie Norris, PF/C Aaron Williams, SG Kirk Snyder
The Hornets shocked everyone by landing Peja. Peja provides N'Awlins with one of the best shooters in the NBA. Adding Bobby Jackson is huge since it allows Paul to get some rest and a possibility that Jackson and Paul can run the backcourt for several minutes during games [it also let Claxton out...and they also signed Pargo for even more depth]. The also reeled in Chandler, who could be the young up and coming post guy they need. It did cost them Brown and Smith, but Brown was getting on in years and Smith was in Byron Scott's doghouse. So was Synder, who was shipped to Houston for pretty much nothing. The Hornets have gone from laughingstock to legit rather quickly. Armstrong and Simmons bring toughness to their frontcourt. They really need that. With PJ Brown getting old and nothing else to speak of in the middle, those two guys can come in and make waves. De Souza was dubbed bysome as a first rounder...so getting him later was a nice move.

SAN ANTONIO SPURS:
ADD: C Jackie Butler, SF Eric Williams, SF Matt Bonner, PG Jaques Vaughn, C/PF Francisco Elson, PF Rich Melzer
LOST: C Nazr Mohammad, C Rasho Nesterovic, PF Sean Marks.
The Spurs dealt away Nesterovic and let Mohammad leave via free agency. They also watched Joel Prybilla re-up with Portland. It will be interesting to see how the Spurs approach their roster. Williams and Bonner add a little bit of help, but not much. Melzer played in New Zealand last year. Either Butler or Elson may indeed end up being an important player on this team.

NORTHWEST DIVISION

DENVER NUGGETS:
ADD: PF/C Joe Smith, SG JR Smith, C.PF Jamal Sampson, SG/SF Yakhouba Diawara
LOST: SF/SG Ruben Patterson, SG Greg Buckner, C/PF Francisco Elson
The biggest news for Denver was locking up Carmelo Anthony long term. Unlike LeBron, Wade and Bosh....Melo decided to take the long deal for security...which, to me, makes sense because he's less marketable than either LeBron or Wade who can make their lost money from endorsements. Not to say Melo can't either...he just can't as well as those two. They also kept Nene...who was highly sought after around the league. The Nuggs also made a move, bringing in JR Smith via a trade. It allowed the Nuggets to get a need player and still able to sign some of their own free agents [Nene]. Denver did draft Leon Powe, but dealt him away for a future 2nd rounder. Not too good for a team with limited cap space and a roster in flux. Diawara is a rookie free agent that excelled defensively in the summer league. It isn't known if Sampson or Diawara will contribute much.

MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES:
ADD: PG Mike James, PG Randy Foye, PF Craig Smith, C Loukas Mavrokefalidis.
LOST: PG Marcus Banks, SF Ronald DuPree
Many people don't realize that Mike James averaged 20 pts and nearly 6 assists for the Raptors last year. Bringing him to Minnesota is a very good move for a team that had no point guard at alllast season. Foye really helps the Wolves in the backcourt as far as scoring...and James' signing means he won't have to come in and start off the bat. He could be ROY. However, the guy they dealt for him, Brandon Roy, was a better fit. Also, they were screwed by Portland...who snuck in and took Foye and ruined the premeditaded deal they had with Houston. I like Craig Smith as he's a tough guy around the basket. He is a bit smallish though.

PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS:
ADD:  C/PF LaMarcus Aldridge, SG Brandon Roy, C Jamaal Magliore, PG Dan Dickau, C Raef LaFrentz, PG Sergio Rodriguez, C Joel Freeland
LOST:  PG Steve Blake, SF Viktor Khryapa, C/PF Theo Ratliff, PG Sebastian Telfair, PF Brian Skinner, C Ha Seung-Jin
What a draft night for Portland. They pulled off SIX trades. Now, you can view what the Blazers did two different ways. You can assess each deal one-by-one or you can look at the overall haul. As seperate deals, sure, you can dump on Portland for some overzealous actions [why the 2-for-4 and Khryapa pick??]. However, they also did the shrewdest move of the night byblockingthe Rockets/Wolves deal by drafting the guy that Minnesota wanted Houstonto take. Then they made the deal.  Overall it looks pretty decent. Aldridge and Roy are good character guys who can come in and start for Portland. They already dealt away bad seed Telfair and are looking to deal Zach Randolph. While LaFrentz isn't the defensive person that Ratliff was, but heis younger and more of a threat to score. Rodriguez and Freeland can stay in Europe and develop...which is good for Portland who already invested in high school projects in the last 4-5 drafts. Portland also dealt away starter Steve Blake [with Skinner and Ha] for Magliore....which gives Portland a veteran center, but light at the point guard.

SEATTLE SONICS:
ADD: SF Mickael Gelabale, C Saer Sene, SG Dehnam Brown, PG Yotam Halperin.
LOST: C Mikki Moore
What's going on?? The Sonics drafted a very raw center with their first rounder. Last year, they drafted a raw center Johan Petro in the first round. In 2004, they drafted a raw center Robert Swift in the first round. So, what is this?? Not tomention, they just drafted a guy who averaged 3 pts and 4 rbs in the Belgium league last year. THE BELGIUM LEAGUE!!!! If that was your average in any colleigate conference last year...you'd be looking to go to graduate school. Sure, he showed some stuff in some exhibition games...but the Sonics needed more from their pick. Brown and Halperin could be key players to Seattle in time. Speaking of draft picks, the Sonics are bringing Mickael Gelabale...their 2nd round pick in 2005...overfrom Spain. He's a slashing type of swingman with very good defense and a decent shot.

UTAH JAZZ:
ADD: SG Ronnie Brewer, PG Derek Fisher, PG Dee Brown, PFPaul Millsap, C Rapheal Araujo.
LOST: C Greg Ostertag, SG Devin Brown, SG Keith McLeod, SG Andre Owens, PF KrisHumphries
The big Ostertag has hung them up. Adding Fisher is a bit odd. The Jazz spent their lottery pick last year on a PG and their lottery pick this year on a SG. Not to mention that Fisher costs too much. I think the Jazz did a great job with their picks. Brewer is a Jerry Sloan kind of guy. He plays tough defense and a guy whocan create his own shot...something they desperately needed. Brown can back up Deron Williams...his former Illinois backcourt mate. Brown canbe that change of pace guard who can get the team running a bit. Millsap is a stud rebounder [he led the country in boards at UTEP] who can contribute in the paint scoring wise. They dealt for Araujo who is trying to stay in the league

PACIFIC DIVISION

GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS:
ADD: CPatrick O'Bryant, SG Devin Brown,SG Keith McLeod, SG Andre Owens, C Kosta Perovic.
LOST: PG Derek Fisher, PG Will Bynum
Losing Fish isn't a big deal. He was expensive...and that doesn't work when Baron Davis is already there. What is peculiar is that they waived Will Bynum too...who ledthe D-League is scoring last year and seemed to be ready to make the move to the NBA. He still might end up with G-State [he was waived or his contract would've been guranteed] or take his suddenly rising stock elsewhere. They brought in Brown, McLeod and Owens, who are just roster fillers. Both picks are big men and both need time to develop. The Warriors needed big men...but these guys are a bit unproven. However, if O'Bryant keeps improving as he did late in the college season, he could turn out to be quite a player.

LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS:
ADD: PF Tim Thomas, PF/C Aaron Williams, C Paul Davis, PG Guillermo Diaz.
LOST: PF Vladimir Radmanovic
Vlad-Ram will be missed as a key perimeter shooter....but the Clips acted fast by bringing in Tim Thomas. Thomas can do more on the floor than Radmanovic. Aaron Williams adds veteran depth in the frontcourt. Davis and Diaz are those 2nd round guys who could last a long time in the NBA. Davis is a big man with a post presence and a nice little offensive game....especially a jump shot. Big centers who can hit open jumpers are always needed. Diaz is a ballsy guard whohas some trade value if Miami really, really, really wants him.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS:
ADD: PF Vladimir Radmanovic, PG Jordan Farmar, SF Maurice Evans, PG Shammond Williams, PG Danilo Pinnock
LOST: SF Devean George
Radmanovic adds a key perimeter scorer for the Lakers. Someone capable of hitting open jumpers. Farmar will be in an interesting battle with Smush Parker and Sasha Vujacic for those point minutes alongside Kobe. The guy who hitsmore consistently from the field will riseto the top. Farmarcould bethat guy. He's smart [can pick up the triangle quicker than most] and a leader. He's also local which couldgive him fan points. Signing Shammond Williams gives the Lakers a three-point threat at the PG spot. Pinnock could also be thrown into the mix if he does well in the summer leagues. Evans wantedout of Detroit and got hiswish. As a Laker, he'll back up Kobe and whomever is at small forward. The Evans move means that 3-time champion Devean George isn't needed anymore.

PHOENIX SUNS:
ADD: SG Eric Piatkowski, PG Marcus Banks, PF Sean Marks
LOST: PF Tim Thomas, C/PF Brian Grant, PG Eddie House, F Dijon Thompson, SF Nikoloz Tskitishvili.
Losing Thomas hurts a little. Thomas was only around about half the year in Phoenix, but came on strong as a keymember of the team in the playoffs. Losing him to division rival Clippers doesn't help matters. The Suns did get some bench help...as they signed Piatkowski and Banks [which allowed them the waive g-bye to Eddie House]. Piatkowski is a big time shooter and Banks is that run-and-gunnin' point guard that could give Nash some rest. The Suns had two picks...but came home with nothing. And I absolutely hate what they did. Sure, I understand....kinda. The thinking is that they like the team they have and really didn't want rookie salaries pushing them into the luxury tax bracket. They also are looking at resigning some of their own guys in the next summer. However, they came off like cheapskates [they also dealt Grant away]. They dealt away both of their picks for cash....even though there weresome great players sitting there for their picks. They did end up with a future 1st rounder from Boston...which just keeps them out of the bottom spot. Nikoloz Tskitishvili, aka The Euro Bust, was waived. They have added Piatkowski, a veteran gunner. Marks has made the rounds in the NBA as a deep bench guy.

SACRAMENTO KINGS:
ADD: SG/PG John Salmons, SG Quincy Douby, PG Pooh Jeter, C/PF Justin Williams.
LOST: SG/SF Bonzi Wells, SF Jamal Sampson
Salmons had a weird offseason. He was reportedly a lock to goto the Suns. Then he accepts a sign-and-trade to go to Toronto...and then backed out. Now he ends up in SacTown....which allows them to move on without Wells. I like Douby [I was hoping the Lakers could get him] but he doesn't fill any need. The Blazers already drafted lanky two-guards in 2005 [Fran Garcia] and 2004 [Kevin Martin]...and they added Salmons [which, actually, came after the pick]. With a ton of point guards available at their pick...including Bobby Jackson-esque Rajon Rondo....this pick made no sense. Jeter and Williams were picked up from the summer league...and I am a huge Williams fan.

NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE OFFSEASON MOVES

Sun, 09 Jul 2006 02:21:31 GMT

ATLANTIC DIVISION

BOSTON CELTICS:
ADD: PG Sebastian Telfair, C Theo Ratliff, PG Rajon Rondo, PF/C Brian Grant, F Leon Powe, PF Kevin Pittsnogle, PG/SG Allan Ray
LOST: PG Dan Dickau, C/PF Raef LaFrentz, PG Orien Greene
Boston gained two point guards in Telfair and Rondo. Interesting, since neither is a good shooter. Telfair is a poor chemistry guy as well. This may lead to a possible deal for Allen Iverson down the road. Ratliff shaves a year from dealt Raef LaFrentz. Powe could be a sleeper as an undersized power forward. Grant just adds some experienced frontcourt help. Pittsnogle, who went undrafted, gives the C's a cheap replacement for LaFrentz [read: a big guy that plays on the perimeter].

NEW JERSEY NETS:
ADD: PG Marcus Williams, PF Josh Boone, C Mikki Moore, SG Hassan Adams.
LOST: PG Jacques Vaughn, SF Scott Padgett
Clifford Robinson was let go...then resigned him. The Nets had to have been shocked to see Williams fall in their laps. He was labeled a "Jason Kidd type" of player...and now he gets to work with Kidd. So he should fit with what the team is trying to do. Boone is a risk, but when his mind is right, he can rebound, block shots, score around the basket and defend well. The Nets need that badly. Adams is a highlight dunker who brings gritty defense. Moore is a veteran center that brings some depth to the front court.

NEW YORK KNICKS:
ADD: SF Jared Jeffries, PF Renaldo Balkman, PG Mardy Collins.
LOST: C Jackie Butler
I don't like the Jeffries signing, aside from the fact that he will play defense. He just isn't worth that money. I just hate the picks. Balkman isn't worth the #20 pick in the draft. He could've been had later in the draft. Collins is a defensive combo guard....now on a team with four combo guards. Sigh. This was the one area that most hoops people felt that Isiah Thomas was really good at. Not anymore.

PHILADELPHIA 76ERS:
ADD: SF Rodney Carney, SF Bobby Jones, C Edin Bavcic.
LOST: SG/SF John Salmons
The biggest story of the offseason was one that never happened. Allen Iverson was all over the trading floor...but nothing came of it......again. The draft picks, to me, were rather interesting. They got an athletic swingman in Carney and a very tough defender in Jones [Bavcic is a project]. Carney was a very good pick, especially at the 16th spot. However, they still failed to get a point guard.

TORONTO RAPTORS:
ADD: PG TJ Ford, PF Andrea Bargnani, PG/SG Fred Jones, PF Jorge Garbajosa, C Rasho Nesterovic, SG/SF Anthony Parker, SF PJ Tucker, PF Kris Humphries, PF Uros Slokar.
LOST: SF/PF Charlie Villeneuva, PG Mike James, PG Alvin Williams, SF Eric Williams, SF Matt Bonner, C Raphael Araujo, C/PF Pape Sow, SG Andre Barrett
In an offseason full of movement for Toronto, the biggest catch was signing Chris Bosh to an extention. For the first time, they get to keep their big young star. Getting Ford means Toronto gets a real point guard to run their show [they let James walk]. It cost them Charlie V, but with Bosh signing an extension and Bargnani as a draft pick...someone had to go and Villeneuva was the odd man out. The Raptors added some depth there by getting combo guard Freddie Jones [who could be a starting 2-guard]. Boy....Bargnani is a very risky pick. I think he'll be solid...but it is a risk to take him #1. Especially when most anyone in the top 6 wouldn't have wanted him. Toronto coulda/shoulda dealt the pick back and got him and some other stuff. Still, they wanted him and got him. Tucker is a nice player, but they drafted Joey Graham last year who does the same things. They also got Nesterovic in a trade...which gives them a serviceable center and all it cost them was a couple of guys that didn't want to be there anyways. Toronto also brings swingman Anthony Parker over from Israel...meaning that they have some depth at the swing position with Parker, Tucker and Graham. The Arajulo-Whaley/Humphries trade won't be a major one, as Whaley was already waived and picked back up by Utah. Garbajosa was the Spanish Cup Finals MVP. With these point guard moves, the Raptors bought out Alvin Williams...who had played just one game in two years and was the longest tenured Raptor.

SOUTHEAST DIVISION

ATLANTA HAWKS:
ADD:   C Lorenzen Wright, PG Speedy Claxton, PF Sheldon Williams, C Solomon Jones.
LOST:   SF Donta Smith
Wright returns to the Hawks after a long stay in Memphis. He's a pretty good defensive player [when healthy] and could form a tough front line with new draft pick Sheldon Williams. Signing Speedy Claxton finally nets the Hawks are real live point guard [not Joe Johnson or Royal Ivey].  Williams should be a solid NBA player for years as his defense and rebounding will be needed anywhere he goes. But, the Hawks took him too high and there were guys at the #5 spot that fit bigger needs [Foye, Roy]. Jones has a chance to make the team.

CHARLOTTE BOBCATS:
ADD: SF Adam Morrison, C/PF Othella Harrington, C Ryan Hollins.
LOST:
Morrison brings a scorer to the Cats, something they haven't had. He's a guy that can get his shot off anywhere on the court. And he's passionate which could make him a fan favorite. Harrington adds depth underneath...which may be necessary with Emeka Okafor and Sean May coming back from injuries. Hollins could come in and be a solid prospect as well...a big man who can run the floor.

MIAMI HEAT:
ADD: SG Mike Gansey
LOST:
Miami was the only team who had no picks in this draft. The picks they would've had in this draft were used to get Shaquille O'Neal and Antoine Walker. Not bad. They did pick up rookie free agent Mike Gansey. Gansey is smallish for an off guard and slow for a point guard, but dude is a leader and canshootthe lights out.

ORLANDO MAGIC:
ADD: SG JJ Redick, SG Keith Bogans, C James Augustine.
LOST: SG DeShawn Stevenson
Redick is small for a two guard and may not be what Orlando needs. There were bigger, more athletic guards availiable when theypicked....so I don't like it. Redick, again, will be a Steve Kerr kind of player....not Reggie Miller. As for Augustine, he could make the team as a backup center. Bogans is another too-small-for-his-position guys, which Orlando already have too much of. Bogans has been a decent backup player, though...and cheaper than Stevenson, who the Magic let walk.

WASHINGTON WIZARDS:
ADD: SG DeShawn Stevenson, PF Darius Songala, PF Olexsiy Pecherov, PF Vladimir Veremeenko.
LOST: SF Jared Jeffries
Losing Jeffries hurts a bit....but I don't think it is a big of a loss as others do. He is a decent defender but wasn't special on the offensive side of things and wasn't worth the money the Knicks signed him for. The Wiz signed Songala as a big man who can shoot...yet isn't afraid to bump around with the big boys inside. Stevenson is a decent swing guard that gives them some depth there. Both of their draft picks will sit in Europe for at least a year...but that's fine with Washington. The Wiz still have Calvin Booth and Michael Ruffin [how is Ruffin making $1.8M???] on the books this coming season....and then they are gone. These rookies can come in and, at worst, fill the exact same roles.

CENTRAL DIVISION

CHICAGO BULLS:
ADD: C/PF Ben Wallace, PF Tyrus Thomas, PF/C PJ Brown, SG/SF Adrian Griffin, SG Thabo Sefolosha, SF Viktor Khryapa
LOST: C/PF Tyson Chandler, SG Eric Piatkowski,PF/C Othella Harrington, PG Jannero Pargo, PF Darius Songaila
Chicago nearly revamped their entire roster and have been impressive at filling their glaring weakness - the inside game. The Bulls wrapped up the biggest free agent on the market by luring Big Ben from the Pistons. Wallace adds defense, toughness and that veteran moxy that the Bulls need to get to the upper tier of the East. Oh, and plucking him from a division rival is sweet as well. To make room on the floor [andin the payroll], the Bulls sent away Chandler and got back PJ Brown and JR Smith [Smith was dealt to Denver for Howard Eisley's unguaranteed contract, which the Bulls waived in order to afford Wallace]. Brown is cheaper, veteran and a great locker room presence [the Bulls also let Harrington go]. Griffin rejoins the Bulls after a season away...and brings experience and defense with him. Top draft pick Thomas was many people's top guy on the board. He is athletic and could be the interior scorer that Chicago desperately needs. They also needed a big guard, and Sefolosha is that. And he is more refined than most foreign players are. Khyrapa adds depth to the wing position. Chicago is having the best summer thus far!

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS:
ADD:  SG Shannon Brown, PG/SG David Wesley, PG Daniel Gibson, F Ejike Ugboaja.
LOST:  SG Flip Murray
The biggest offseason move was signing LeBron James to an extension...keeping the title hopes on track. They let Flip Murray go to rival Detroit...since they drafted Shannon Brown. Brown fills a big need. A big guard who can score in a variety of ways...including hitting jumpers, something the Cavs need with those LeBron kick-outs. He'll be more of a combo guard. They also nabbed Wesley, who's all that with experience. Gibson is too, but not as gifted. Ugboaja is a project that may never set foot in the league.

DETROIT PISTONS:
ADD: C Nazr Mohammad, SG Flip Murray, SF Ronald Dupree, C Cheik Samb, PG Will Blaylock
LOST: C/PF Ben Wallace, SF Maurice Evans, PG Tony Delk
Wow. Losing Ben Wallace is huge. He was their best defender and masked any defensive issues they had. And Detroit watches him go without a solid replacement or plan. Remember they dealt away Darko Milicic last year so they can't even use him. Sure, signing Mohammad softens the blow a bit, but he is no where near Wallace as far as defense and rebounding go. They did nab Murray which gives the Pistons a combo guard who can solidify a rotation with Billups and Hamilton. They also brought Dupree back...and hecould get some time. Samb is a project...a huge kid who will stay over in Spain to develop. Getting him cost the Pistons Evans, who wanted out of Detroit anyways. Blaylock could make the Pistons as the team does need backup guard help since they dealt Carlos Arroyo last season.

INDIANA PACERS:
ADD: SG/SF Marquis Daniels, SF Shawne Williams, PG Darrell Armstrong, PG Orien Greene, SF Josh Powell, SG James White, PF Maceo Baston, SG/SF Rawle Marshall.
LOST: SF Peja Stojakovic, PF/SF Austin Croshere, PG Anthony Johnson, PG/SG Fred Jones, SF Jonathan Bender
Adding Daniels means they add some swingman help who is solid defensively. They needed size and a point guard in the draft....and got neither. Sure, Peja is out the door, but they drafted Danny Granger last year and he does what Williams can do. White is one heck of an athlete and seemingly coachable...butneeds some polishing just to get minutes. They also gained Greene off waivers...who may get some time at the point guard spot. Losing Peja means they essentially dealt away Ron Artest for nothing. They waived Bender who basically spent his Pacers career in the trainer's room. Indy also lost Anthony Johnson [via trade] and Fred Jones...with hurt their depth in the backcourt a bit. They did bring in aging Darrell Armstrong, Josh Powell and Rawle Marshall in the Johnson deal. Baston was in Israel the last three years.

MILWAUKEE BUCKS:
ADD: PF Charlie Villenueva, SF/SG Ruben Patterson, PG Steve Blake, PF Brian Skinner, C Ha Seung-Jin, SF David Noel, PG Lynn Greer, SF Damir Markota.
LOST: PG TJ Ford, C Jamaal Magliore, PF/C Joe Smith, SG Jiri Welsch
The Bucks uncerimoniously dealt Magliore, with the idea of moving 2005 top overall pick Andrew Bogut from forward to center. He's their future, so dealing Magliore was expected. They didn't get too much for him, though....just Blake [who was the Blazers starter] and a few big men [Skinner, Ha]. Trading Ford was tough since he made a great comeback from a head/spine injury to play last year....and play well. But, the Bucks brought in Charlie V who could form [along with Bogut] a nice young frontcourt. Patterson adds a much needed defensive swingman....something needed in a division with LeBron James. Noel was rated the top athlete in the Orlando camp. He's a big time dunker, plays pretty good defense, passes well and has a decent jumper. He may get a shot with the Bucks. Markota, well, I'm not so sure. Welsh quit the NBA and is going back to Spain.

The Greatest Player for Each NBA Franchise

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 01:07:46 GMT

Major League Baseball is going around asking who the best players are for each franchise in their history. Quite a task. I mean, who is the greatest Yankee among all the greats they've had?? And, at the same point, who is the greatest Devil Ray?? Intriguing to say the least.

So, I am going to do my part....in a 3-part look at the greatest of each franchise in the MLB, NFL and NBA. I'm sure that my picks could be controversial....but it is me talking. I am not a fan of each of these franchises...so I'm not going to fret if fans of those teams call me crazy for certain picks.

The NBA has a very tough manner to. I mean, try picking the greatest Boston Celtic of all time [my pick may surprise you]. Try picking the greatest Laker. And then try picking the greatest Bobcat and Grizzly. Tough.

Either way....here is Part Two....the NBA.

BOBCATS: Emeka Okafor. Not really, fair...since the team has been in existence for just two seasons. Okafor gets the nod since he won the rookie of the year award in 2005 and is the best player, when healthy, on this team.

BUCKS: Kareem Abdul Jabbar: Kareem took the Bucks from a young expansion team to an NBA Champion. He averaged at least 28 ppg and at least 14 rpg in each of his 6 seasons in Milwaukee. He won MVP awards in half of those seasons [1971, 1972, 1974]

BULLS: Michael Jordan. How can it not be Jordan? All those MVPs, all those scoring titles, the six NBA titles [which he was the Finals MVP in each one]. Arguably the greatest player in the history of the game.

CAVALIERS: Brad Daugherty. Yeah, LeBron James will pass him up in the not so distant future. But Big Brad is the Cavs' all time leading scorer, all time leading rebounder, all time FTs made, and 5th all time in assists.

CELTICS: John Havlicek. Surprised?? Me too. I was researching between Larry Bird and Bill Russell [I was leaning toward Russell...then toward Bird] when I found out that Havlicek lead the Boston franchise in nearly every statistical category. Now, Bird topped the ppg slot and no one in Boston will touch Russell's rebounding stats [but rebounding was a different thing back then]....but no one is close to Havlicek in total scoring and he was a shade under Bob Cousy for assists. I told you this one would be controversial. In my mind, Bird is the top Celtic....but sometimes stats lay out the picture.

CLIPPERS: Bob McAdoo. Sure, he was a Boston Brave....but it counts. He was an NBA MVP, a Hall of Famer, and led the Clippers/Braves to their most sucessful season ever.

GRIZZLIES: Shareef Abdur Rahim. Reef was mired on one of the worst franchises ever. Yet he stayed classy. As guys like Steve Francis wanted out and Mike Bibby were quickly dealt....Reef just did his thing. Sure, Pau Gasol could take this spot soon....but not yet.

HAWKS: Bob Pettit. He trails just Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain in rebounds per game for his career. He led the Hawks to four straight NBA Finals....and the Hawks lone NBA title in 1958. When he retired, he was the NBA's all time leading scorer....and trails just Michael Jordan, Chamberlain, Allen Iverson, Elgin Baylor, Jerry West and Shaquille O'Neal in career points per game.

HEAT: Alonzo Mourning. Give it a few more years, and it will be Dwayne Wade. But, remember that Zo took that Heat team thru the Eastern Conference wars of the 1990s....when Chicago, New York and Indiana were really great teams. His defense and intesity were unrivaled for a time....before his kidneys forced him to sit for several seasons. And if not for that, remember, Wade wouldn't be a member of the Heat right now.

HORNETS: Larry Johnson. When LJ came aboard, it legitimized the franchise. He, along with Alonzo Mourning, were the nucleus of the Hornets during the height of their popularity. Maybe not as popular as Muggsy Bogues...and maybe not there as long as Dell Curry...but LJ was the start of it all.

JAZZ: Karl Malone. It could either be Stockton or Malone [well, it could be Maravich]. Still, Malone may be the greatest power forward ever. He was built out of granite, and was one of the best "junk shooters" of all time [meaning, he got a lot of "and-ones" during his career since he was creative with his layups]. He is the 2nd all time scoring leader....and that pick and roll with Stockton was never stopped.

KINGS: Oscar Robertson. Red Auerbach called The Big O the greatest basketball player of all time. In 1962, he averaged a triple double for a season. Unreal! And nearly did it again in 1964....coming just shy in the rebounding department [he averaged just 9.9 boards that year]. What LeBron James is doing now.....Oscar was doing 40 years ago.

KNICKS: Patrick Ewing. No, he never won a title for New York, but he was the center of their renessance. He is the Knicks all time leader in scoring, rebounds, steals, blocks and games. Ewing's Knicks ran into Jordan's Bulls, Hakeem's Rockets, Reggie's Pacers and The Admiral's Spurs in those title-less postseasons.

LAKERS: Magic Johnson. There are so many great players that can fit here. Kareem. Wilt. Shaq. West. Baylor. But Magic is in a class by himself. Not only was he the straw that stirred the Lakers' drink in the 1980s....he, along with Larry Bird, carried the NBA into relevance.

MAGIC: Shaquille O'Neal. Shaq was only in Orlando for 4 years...but he put the franchise on the map. When he was drafted in 1992, it didn't take the franchise long to reach the NBA Finals. I mean, he assaulted the league when he came in. And when he left....the team hasn't recovered since.

MAVERICKS: Rolando Blackmon. Tough one. Brad Davis was their first....Dirk Nowitzki is their latest [and may end up being their greatest], but Rolando Blackmon is the Mavericks. During their climb from expansion to contenders, Blackmon led the Mavericks in all time scoring. And while the Tarpleys were getting suspended and the Perkinses and Schrempfs were being dealt away....Ro was always there.

NETS: Jason Kidd. It isno coincidence that once Kidd arrived in New Jersey, once a laughingstock of the Eastern Conference, they went to two consecutive NBA Finals. He is the greatest "role player" ever. Dr J should get a voice in this....as his Nets exploits help lead to the ABA-NBA merger. But I just want to count NBA efforts here.

NUGGETS: Alex English. One of the most underrated players in the past 25 years, English was as pure a scorer as you can get. Sure, Dan Issel may have been the heart and soul of the franchise...but English was the man. He's 11th on the NBA's scoring list and actually is the Nuggs all time assist leader.

PACERS: Reggie Miller. Reggie owns pretty much every record the Indiana franchise has. He is one of the greatest clutch shooters in NBA history and the star of the Pacers' greatest era of the late 1990s to early 2000s.

PISTONS: Isiah Thomas. People in New York may hate him....but Zeke is the top Piston of all time. He was the leader of the Bad Boy Pistons that won NBA titles in 1989 and 1990....and went to a 3rd Finals in 1988. His legendary performance in Game 6 of that 1988 Finals...just awes me to this day....not to mention his duel with Benard King a few years earlier. He is Detroit's top scorer and assist man.

RAPTORS: Vince Carter. Vince-anity took over the NBA in 2000...and may have kept basketball in Canada. And before he pouted out of Toronto, he was pretty clutch for them for a period in there. Even still, he made the Dinos popular for a short period of time.

ROCKETS: Hakeem Olajawon. The Dream was the best player in the non-Jordan years of 1994 and 1995 and was nearly impossible to guard. In the last "big man era" in the early/mid 1990s. He was about as complete as any of the other centers then.

SIXERS: Julius Erving. Iverson may be the scoring king and Chamberlain may have done some time as a Sixer [including that great 1967 season] and Barkley may have been the mouth of the team, but the Dr J Sixers had a great run. His first year ended in the NBA Finals...and were there in 1977, 1980, 1982 and 1983. From 1977-1982, they lost to the eventual NBA champions in the playoffs all but one season [1979]. He won the 1981 MVP award.

SONICS: Gary Payton. Payton is one of the best defensive players the NBA has ever known. And he was a "combo guard" before they became popular again in the 1990s. Despite playing second fiddle to Shawn Kemp during the 1990s, it was Payton who not only was the glue, but the guy who was key in the clutch. He's the Sonics' all time scorer and assist man.

SPURS: David Robinson. Apologies to Tim Duncan, who has 2 MVP awards and three Finals MVPs....but The Admiral is better. When he came into the league, he came in as a great offensive and defensive player off the bat. If not for an injury that kept him out of most of 1996-1997, Duncan wouldn't have been a Spur.

SUNS: Charles Barkley. What a tough one. Is it Charles Barkley...who won an MVP award in 1993 and took the Suns to the Finals? Is it Steve Nash...who has 2 MVP awards. Is it Walter Davis...the Suns top scorer and dude who rolled over on his teammates during the Suns cocaine scandal in the 1980s? I will go with Barkley, who sent this team towards its best run.

TIMBERWOLVES: Kevin Garnett. Say what you want about him as far as not getting in done, but the Wolves never got it done until he got there. Once he did, Minnesota were playoff regulars and even went to the 2004 Western Conference Finals. He has an MVP award and a consistent All Star.

TRAILBLAZERS: Bill Walton. The 1977 Blazers team was as magical a run as you could imaging. Led by Walton, who was playing his first, full, injury free season, Portland made the playoffs for the first time ever...and rode that to an NBA Championship. The next season, the Blazers won 50 of their first 60 games before Walton broke his foot. He still was named MVP in 1978. This was a close call, since I had Clyde Drexler right on his heels.

WARRIORS: Wilt Chamberlain. How can it not be?? Sure, he spent just three years as a Warrior [so, sorry Rick Barry], but one of those years was that 50 ppg season. His three seasons in Philly were as dominant as a three seasons as we've seen in basketball.

WIZARDS: Elvin Hayes. The Big E is the Wizards/Bullets all time leading scorer and was one of the NBA's beasts. He had one of the NBA's best signature moves...and only Kareem, Karl Malone, Jordan, Wilt and Moses Malone scored more points in NBA history. He's also 4th in rebounding.

SPORTZ' NBA Draft Grades

Fri, 30 Jun 2006 10:11:07 GMT

Here is my ranking of the draft Wednesday night.

30-DENVER: The Nuggets didn't get anyone. Denver did draft Leon Powe, but dealt him away for a future 2nd rounder. Not too good for a team with limited cap space and a roster in flux.

29-PHOENIX: The Suns had two picks...but came home with nothing. And I absolutely hate what they did. Sure, I understand....kinda. The thinking is that they like the team they have and really didn't want rookie salaries pushing them into the luxury tax bracket. They also are looking at resigning some of their own guys in the next summer. However, they came off like cheapskates. They dealt away both of their picks for cash....even though there were some great players sitting there for their picks. They did end up with a future 1st rounder from Boston...which just keeps them out of the bottom spot.

28-SAN ANTONIO: The Spurs made the second-to-last selection...then shipped him off to Milwaukee. Not bad for the Spurs, who already have a full roster and a bevy of international guys waiting in the wings.

27-MIAMI: Miami was the only team who had no picks in this draft. The picks they would've had in this draft were used to get Shaquille O'Neal and Antoine Walker. Not bad.

26-NEW YORK: The Knicks gained PF Renaldo Balkman and PG Mardy Collins. The only reason they aren't dead last is because a couple of teams didn't get to pick. And by my personal reasoning for this...picking anyone in the draft rates higher than getting nothing. It's not that I hate the players. I just hate the picks. Balkman isn't worth the #20 pick in the draft. He could've been had later in the draft. Collins is a defensive combo guard....now on a team with four combo guards. Sigh. This was the one area that most hoops people feltthat Isiah Thomas was really good at. Not anymore.

25-SEATTLE: The Sonics gained C Saer Sene, SG Dehnam Brown and PG Yotam Halperin. What's going on?? The Sonics drafted a very raw center with their first rounder. Last year, they drafted a raw center Johan Petro in the first round. In 2004, they drafted a raw center Robert Swift in the first round. So, what is this?? Not to mention, they just drafted a guy who averaged 3 pts and 4 rbs in the Belgium league last year. THE BELGIUM LEAGUE!!!! If that was your average in any colleigate conference last year...you'd be looking to go to graduate school. Sure, he showed some stuff in some exhibition games...but the Sonics needed more from their pick. Brown and Halperin could be key players to Seattle in time.

24-SACRAMENTO: The Kings gained SG Quincy Douby. I like Douby [I was hoping the Lakers could get him] but he doesn't fill any need. The Blazers already drafted lanky two-guards in 2005 [Fran Garcia] and 2004 [Kevin Martin]. With a ton of point guards available at their pick...including Bobby Jackson-esque Rajon Rondo....this pick made no sense.

23-DETROIT: The Pistons gained C Cheik Samb and PG Will Blaylock [and lost Maurice Evans in a trade]. Samb is a project...a huge kid who will stay over in Spain to develop. Getting him cost the Pistons Evans. Blaylock could make the Pistons as the team does need backup guard help since they dealt Carlos Arroyo last season.

22-MILWAUKEE: The Bucks gained SF David Noel and SF Damir Markota. Noel was rated the top athlete in the Orlando camp. He's a big time dunker, plays pretty good defense, passes well and has a decent jumper. He may get a shot with the Bucks. Markota, well, I'm not so sure.

21-HOUSTON: The Rockets gained SF Steve Novak and SF Lior Eliyahu via the draft and SF Shane Battier via a trade [they also lost Stromile Swift]. I may be the only person who completely hates Houston's draft. They essentially traded Rudy Gay [who they drafted] and Swift for Battier. Huh? Then they draft Novak. I like what those guys can do....hit open shots...which will be key playing alongside Yao Ming. But the price Houston paid to get Battier was too high. Not to mention that the Rockets only athletic player is now T-Mac. Battier may be a great defender, but isn't an athletic offensive player. They dealt away two great athletes in Gay and Swift and gain two stand still jump shooters. And they didn't even address their biggest need of a point guard. Eliyahu may be able to sniff the NBA.

20-INDIANA: The Pacers gained SF Shawne Williams and SG James White. I don't understand the Pacers, either. They needed size and a point guard....and got neither. Sure, Peja could be out the door, but they drafted Danny Granger last year and he does what Williams can do. White is one heck of an athlete and seemingly coachable...but needs some polishing just to get minutes.

19-DALLAS: The Mavericks gained SG Maurice Ager. Ager is one of those do everything guards that the Mavs seem to really like. He won't be a star...but he'll get some time.

18-WASHINGTON: The Wizards gained PF Olexsiy Pecherov and PF Vladimir Veremeenko. Both of these guys will sit in Europe for at least a year...but that's fine with Washington. The Wiz still have Calvin Booth and Michael Ruffin [how is Ruffin making $1.8M???] on the books this coming season....and then they are gone. These rookies can come in and, at worst, fill the exact same roles.

17-ORLANDO: The Magic gained SG JJ Redick and C James Augustine. Redick is small for a two guard and may not be what Orlando needs. There were bigger, more athletic guards availiable when they picked....so I don't like it. Redick, again, will be a Steve Kerr kind of player....not Reggie Miller. As for Augustine, he could make the team as a backup center.

16-LA CLIPPERS: The Clippers gained C Paul Davis and PG Guillermo Diaz. Davis and Diaz are those 2nd round guys who could last a long time in the NBA. Davis is a big man with a post presence and a nice little offensive game....especially a jump shot. Big centers who can hit open jumpers are always needed. Diaz is a ballsy guard who has some trade value if Miami really, really, really wants him.

15-GOLDEN STATE: The Warriors gained C Patrick O'Bryant and C Kosta Perovic. Both picks are big men and both need time to develop. The Warriors needed big men...but these guys are a bit unproven. However, if O'Bryant keeps improving as he did late in the college season, he could turn out to be quite a player.

14-ATLANTA: The Hawks gained PF Sheldon Williams and C Solomon Jones. Williams should be a solid NBA player for years as his defense and rebounding will be needed anywhere he goes. But, the Hawks took him too high and there were guys at the #5 spot that fit bigger needs [Foye, Roy]. Jones has a chance to make the team.

13-PHILADELPHIA: The Sixers gained SF Rodney Carney, SF Bobby Jones and C Edin Bavcic. The draft picks, to me, were rather interesting. They got an athletic swingman in Carney and a very tough defender in Jones [Bavcic is a project]. Carney was a very good pick, especially at the 16th spot. However, the still failed to get a point guard. Of course, this may fall under the "to be continued" pile as Philly may be looking to deal away Allen Iverson...possibly to Boston...and getting some help that way.

12-TORONTO: The Raptorsgained PF Andrea Bargnani and SF PJ Tucker. Boy....Bargnani is a very risky pick. I think he'll be solid...but it is a risk to take him #1. Especially when most anyone in the top 6 wouldn't have wanted him. Toronto coulda/shoulda dealt the pick back and got him and some other stuff. Still, they wanted him and got him. Tucker is a nice player, but they drafted Joey Graham last year who does the same things. And they still didn't get point guard help.

11-MINNESOTA: The Timberwolves gained PG Randy Foye, PF Craig Smith and C Loukas Mavrokefalidis. Foye really helps the Wolves in the backcourt as far as scoring. He could be ROY. However, the guy they dealt for him, Brandon Roy, was a better fit. Also, they were screwed by Portland...who snuck in and took Foye and ruined the premeditaded deal they had with Houston. I like Craig Smith as he's a tough guy around the basket. He is a bit smallish though.

10-BOSTON: The Celtics gained PG Rajon Rondo and F Leon Powe via the draft, and PG Sebastian Telfair and C Theo Ratliff via trades [they lost Dan Dickau and Raef LaFrentz]. Boston gained two point guards in Telfair and Rondo. Interesting, since neither is a good shooter. Telfair is a poor chemistry guy as well. This may lead to a possible deal for Allen Iverson down the road. Not a bad draft for the C's, as they get Ratliff, who at worst shaves a year from dealt Raef LaFrentz. Powe could be a sleeper as an undersized power forward.

9-LA LAKERS: The Lakers gained PG Jordan Farmar and PG Danilo Pinnock via the draft and SF Maurice Evans via trade. Farmar will be in an interesting battle with Smush Parker and Sasha Vujacic for those point minutes alongside Kobe. The guy who hits more consistently from the field will rise to the top. Farmar could be that guy. He's smart [can pick up the triangle quicker than most] and a leader. He's also local which couldgive him fan points. Pinnock could also be thrown into the mix if he does well in the summer leagues. Evans wanted out of Detroit and got his wish. As a Laker, he'll back up Kobe and whomever is at small forward.

8-UTAH: The Jazz gained SG Ronnie Brewer [above], PG Dee Brown and PF Paul Millsap. I think the Jazz did a great job with their picks. Brewer is a Jerry Sloan kind of guy. He plays tough defense and a guy who can create his own shot...something they desperately needed. Brown can back up Deron Williams...his former Illinois backcourt mate. Brown can be that change of pace guard who can get the team running a bit. Millsap is a stud rebounder [he led the country in boards at UTEP] who can contribute in the paint scoring wise.

7-CHARLOTTE: The Bobcats gained SF Adam Morrison and C Ryan Hollins. Morrison brings a scorer to the Cats, something they haven't had. He's a guy that can get his shot off anywhere on the court. And he's passionate which could make him a fan favorite. Hollins could come in and be a solid prospect as well...a big man who can run the floor.

6-PORTLAND: The Blazers gained C/PF LaMarcus Aldridge, SG Brandon Roy, PG Sergio Rodriguez and C Joel Freeland via the draft and PG Dan Dickau and C Raef LaFrentz via trades [they did lost Viktor Khryapa, Theo Ratliff and Sebastian Telfair in deals]. What a night for Portland. They pulled off SIX trades. Now, you can view what the Blazers did two different ways. You can assess each deal one-by-one or you can look at the overall haul. As seperate deals, sure, you can dump on Portland for some overzealous actions [why the 2-for-4 and Khryapa pick??]. However, they also did the shrewdest move of the night by blocking the Rockets/Wolves deal by drafting the guy that Minnesota wanted Houston to take. Then they made the deal. Overall it looks pretty decent. Aldridge and Roy are good character guys who can come in and start for Portland. They already dealt away bad seed Telfair and are looking to deal Zach Randolph. While LaFrentz isn't the defensive person that Ratliff was, but he is younger and more of a threat to score. Rodriguez and Freeland can stay in Europe and develop...which is good for Portland who already invested in high school projects in the last 4-5 drafts.

5-NEW JERSEY: The Nets gained PG Marcus Williams, PF Josh Boone and SG Hassan Adams. The Nets had to have been shocked to see Williams fall in their laps. He was labeled a "Jason Kidd type" of player...and now he gets to work with Kidd. So he should fit with what the team is trying to do. Boone is a risk, but when his mind is right, he can rebound, block shots, score around the basket and defend well. The Nets need that badly. Adams is a highlight dunker who brings gritty defense.

4-CLEVELAND: The Cavaliers gained SG Shannon Brown, PG Daniel Gibson and F Ejike Ugboaja. Brown fills a need. A big guard who can score in a variety of ways...including hitting jumpers, something the Cavs need with those LeBron kick-outs. He'll be more of a combo guard. Gibson is too, but not as gifted. Ugboaja is a project that may never set foot in the league.

3-NEW ORLEANS: The Hornets gained C Hilton Armstrong, PF Cedric Simmons and SF Marcus Vinicius Vieira de Souza. Armstrong and Simmons bring toughness to their frontcourt. They really need that. With PJ Brown getting old and nothing else to speak of in the middle, those two guys can come in and make waves. De Souza was dubbed by some as a first rounder...so getting him later was a nice move.

2-CHICAGO: The Bulls gained PF Tyrus Thomas and SG Thabo Sefolosha via the draft, and SF Viktor Khryapa via trade. Thomas was many people's top guy on the board. He is athletic and could be the interior scorer that Chicago desperately needs. They also needed a big guard, and Sefolosha is that. And he is more refined than most foreign players are. Khyrapa adds depth to the wing position.

1-MEMPHIS: The Grizzlies gained SF Rudy Gay [below], PG Kyle Lowry and PF Alexander Johnson via the draft and PF Stromile Swift via trade [they lost Shane Battier]. They dealt away Battier for Gay and Swift, meaning they did lose their best defender but got two awesome athletes. Swift has been disappointing with both Memphis and Houston, but could be back in the saddle if Memphis decides to use their new found athleticsm to run a bit more. Lowry helps that aspect too, and brings depth to the point guard spot. Johnson could make the team if he concentrates on his rebounding abilities. Still, the team hasn't found a center yet...and must keep Pau Gasol there until they do.

SPORTZ' Mock Draft

Fri, 23 Jun 2006 07:56:26 GMT

1-TORONTO: Andrea Bargnani [PF-Italy]: Not since Kwame Brown went #1 to the Wiz back in 2001 have we had no idea who the top pick would be this close to the draft. Right now, with a gun to my head, I'd say Andrea Bargnani....just because Bargnani's former GM was just hired by the Raptors and that Brian Colangelo, their new main man, has been following Bargnani for quite some time. OR IT MIGHT BE: LaMarcus Aldridge.

2-CHICAGO [from NY]: Tyrus Thomas [F-LSU] I think this pick will be Tyrus Thomas no matter what [well, unless the Raptors get him first]. The rumor mills have been speculating about the Bulls love for Thomas' workouts and such. OR IT MIGHT BE: Aldridge.

3-CHARLOTTE: Adam Morrison [SF-Gonzaga] Charlotte would like Adam Morrison's instant ability to bring some interest and scoring in. Despite smokescreens putting Rudy Gay here [and he still may be there], I think the Bobcats....who need to gain some fan base...will pick up the insta-scoring Morrison. OR IT MIGHT BE: Rudy Gay.

4-PORTLAND: LaMarcus Aldridge [C/PF-Texas] I think they'll go with LaMarcus Aldridge. Morrison is probably the most ready to come in an contribute...and the Blazers have invested their last, what, 5 first round picks on high schoolers. But Aldridge is the kind of big man they could use as a fixture down low for a while. With Zach Randolph possibly out or Portland via trade and the fact the Blazers have invested in perimeter players in recent drafts....I think L.A. goes here. OR IT MIGHT BE: Gay.

5-ATLANTA: Brandon Roy [SG-Washington] Well, every freakin' rumor site has the Hawks giving Sheldon Williams a guarantee. And no one in the top four wants him. If, for some reason, Aldridge is available....they could take him instead. They don't need another forward and they don't need Brandon Roy [a kind of Joe Johnson player] though there are big rumors saying that Atlanta will take Roy here and then deal him to Houston for Sheldon Williams [who the Rockets would take with the #8 pick]. Right now, I think Atlanta selects Roy...then deals him away. OR IT MIGHT BE: Sheldon Williams

6-MINNESOTA: Randy Foye [PG-Villanova]: Minnesota needs size and backcourt help. Foye brings that scoring point guard ability to the Wolves who need someone in the backcourt to do something OR IT MIGHT BE: Marcus Williams

7-BOSTON: Marcus Williams [PG-UConn] Boston needs a point guard....and Marcus Williams fits that bill. Rajon Rondo also could jump up here...but he has no shot yet and Williams fits what the C's want to do just a bit better. In my earlier mock draft...I had Williams falling all the way to #17 to Indiana. I thought...that's stupid! I'm an idiot. I then change my whole draft around and now see that ESPN has done the same. lol. OR IT MIGHT BE: Rajon Rondo

8-HOUSTON: Sheldon Williams [C/PF-Duke] Go back to Atlanta. See that deal. Houston selects Sheldon Williams here....then deals him for Brandon Roy. OR IT MIGHT BE: Ronnie Brewer

9-GOLDEN STATE: Rudy Gay [SF-UConn]: Seeing Gay fall this far is odd. He's one of the top talents...if not THE top talent....in the draft. But the teams ahead have different needs [meaning, Paul Pierce, T-Mac, Ricky Davis, Charlie Villenueva or, like Atlanta and Portland, have been drafting guys at his spot the last few years] meaning Gay may be available here. If so, bye bye Mike Dunleavy Jr. OR IT MIGHT BE: Patrick O'Bryant

10-SEATTLE: Cedric Simmons [C/PF-NC State] The Sonics need some toughness and Cedric Simmons can give it to them. He could be Danny Fortson without the crap. If, for some reason, Sheldon Williams fall back....he'd be a good pick here too. So could Hilton Armstrong. The only twist is that the Sonics have drafted Johan Petroand Robert Swift in recent drafts too. OR IT COULD BE: Hilton Armstrong.

11-ORLANDO: Rodney Carney [SG/SF-Memphis]: It is just a matter of time before Grant Hill goes bye-bye...so Rodney Carney should be the pick here. An exciting athletic swingman to run along with Jameer Nelson and Dwight Howard. OR IT COULD BE: JJ Redick.

12-NEW ORLEANS: Patrick O'Bryant [C-Bradley]: They badly, badly need some inside scoring. They dealt away Jamaal Magliore and PJ Brown is getting old. I think this is where Patrick O'Bryant...who could be the Charlie Villenueva of this draft [the guy that could go anywhere from 4 to 15] may go. O'Bryant has made a name for himself via the NCAA tournament where he got his Bradley team to the Sweet 16 with some tough play. And, as we all know, finding a good big man is tough in today's NBA. OR IT MIGHT BE: Armstrong

13-PHILADELPHIA: Shawne Williams [SF-Memphis] Word is that Philly loves Williams....so that's the only reason I have him slotted here. I think they could trade back and still nab him. OR IT MIGHT BE: Rajon Rondo.

14-UTAH: JJ Redick [SG-Duke] I think that JJ Redick actually fits perfect here. Okay, not just the "white boy in Utah" thing. Utah can't shoot a lick....and Redick can do that. And that's all he'll be asked to do. Still, I don't think he's anything more than Steve Kerr. But that's not an entirely bad thing. OR IT MIGHT BE: Saer Sene.

15-NEW ORLEANS [from MIL]: Ronnie Brewer [SG-Arkansas] Brewer could end up being their guy. He can handle the rock, plays defense, good athletic ability and an NBA pedigree [his dad played several years in the NBA]. And gives the Hornets an out for dealing JR Smith. OR IT MIGHT BE: Armstrong.

16-CHICAGO: Saer Sene [C-Senegal] Even if they nab Thomas with the #2 pick, I think they will still go big here. But maybe a project. Say, Saer Sene?? He won't give you any offense but can be a defensive stopper if given the right training. OR IT MIGHT BE: Armstrong.

17-INDIANA: Hilton Armstrong [C-UConn] I think they have to take Hilton Armstrong here. Armstrong would give the Pacers a big defensive presence in the middle and a guy who could develop a little offensive game. OR IT MIGHT BE: Alexander Johnson.

18-WASHINGTON: Rajon Rondo [PG-Kentucky] Rondo would give the Wiz a true point guard who can get that team into it's running attack. He also would allow Arenas to move to the shooting guard spot. OR IT MIGHT BE: Olexsiy Pecherov

19-SACRAMENTO: Sergio Rodriguez [PG-Spain]: How can it not be Sergio Rodriguez? A balls-out quick point guard, Sergio could be a nice addition to the run-and-gun Kings. He'd be a nice backup to Mike Bibby. Of course, with Muss as the new coach....his lack of defense could be a concern. OR IT MIGHT BE: Johnson.

20-NEW YORK [from DEN]: Thabo Sefolosha [SF-Switzerland] Hey, say what you want about Zeke, but he'd done a pretty decent job drafting. A few things. The Knicks have lots of stuff but it doesn't amount to anything. I think this pick depends on Isiah's confidence in his tenure. There is no immediate help at this slot. If not [my vote], he will take a foreign player. They already have a ton of contracts filling up theroster. Here's hoping Sefolosha can stay in Europe and develop some more before coming to America. OR IT MIGHT BE: Joel Freeland

21-PHOENIX [from LAL]: Maurice Ager [SG-Michigan State] Let's see. Ager is a big time athlete who is explosive and runs the floor well. Sounds like a match to me! Maurice Ager would be another excellent athlete and shooter into the fold. OR IT MIGHT BE: Kyle Lowry

22-NEW JERSEY [from LAC]: Kyle Lowry [PG-Villanova]
23-NEW JERSEY : Alexander Johnson [PF-Florida State] The Nets have consecutive picks, so they don't have to just sit and choose. Take two! I think Kyle Lowry is one pick. He would be a good backup for Jason Kidd and can get the Nets running again. The other could be Johnson, who adds an athletic frontcourt player...something they really need. Or course, the Nets could trade one of the picks to, say, Portland and get the #30 and #31 picks. OR IT MIGHT BE: Pecherov

24-MEMPHIS: Jordan Farmar [PG-UCLA]: They want a center...but they'll all be gone. Jordan Farmar could be a good fit. He's more of a distributor...which would be nice with this team. They need some point guard help [Damon Stoudamire was hurt and Chucky Atkins was the starter]. OR IT MIGHT BE: Shannon Brown.

25-CLEVELAND: Shannon Brown [G-Michigan State] I think that Shannon Brown could be a good fit in Cleveland. Not a traditional point guard....but with LeBron there, you don't need one. He is a shooter who can defend....and can create his own shot. A good pick here. OR IT MIGHT BE: Mardy Collins

26-LA LAKERS [from MIA]: Mardy Collins [SG-Temple] The last of the Shaq deal....and the Lakers will get: Mardy Collins. Not spectacular....but effective. He can shoot a bit, plays tough Temple defense, durable, can handle the rock and is willing to defer the scoring. OR IT MIGHT BE: Quincy Douby

27-PHOENIX: Oleksiy Pecherov [PF-Ukraine]: Pecherov may not be around for a year or so. He is a good shooting big man who can run up and down the floor. Again, a Suns type of player. OR IT MIGHT BE: Guillermo Diaz

28-DALLAS: Marcus Vinicius [SF-Brazil] A very good offensive talent...but lacks defensive ability right now. Still, he's the kind of guy that the Mavs can leave in international play and come get later when they need him. OR IT MIGHT BE: Freeland.

29-NEW YORK [from SA]: Josh Boone. Another big man with questionable work ethic. But rampant rumors are that the Knicks kept Boone in the draft with a promise here. OR IT MIGHT BE: Freeland

30-PORTLAND [from DET]: Joel Freeland [C/F-England] The ultimate project, Freeland has only been playing hoops for three years. Still, the Blazers don't need rookies right now....so leaving him in Europe [or even the D-league] wouldn't be a bad idea.

SECOND ROUND

31-PORTLAND: Kevin Pittsnogle, C-West Virginia. A veteran big man with range
32-HOUSTON [from NY]: Dee Brown, PG-Illinois. Quick point guard who will help if Luther Head is out the door
33-ATLANTA: Quincy Douby, G-Rutgers. This is where Head may be heading, but Hawks still need some ball handlers
34-LA CLIPPERS [from Cha]: PJ Tucker, SG-Texas. Adds depth to the backcourt
35-TORONTO: Paul Davis, C-Michigan State. They still needed a center and Davis is a capable one
36-MINNESOTA: Daniel Gibson, PG-Texas. Some more point guard help
37-MINNESOTA [from Bos]: Denham Brown, SG-UConn. Some more backcourt help
38-GOLDEN STATE: Steve Novak, SF-Marquette. Again, they need some shooters
39-MILWAUKEE [from Hou]: James White, SG-Cincinnati. They need depth, and White is just an athletic freak who can always help out
40-SEATTLE: Guillermo Diaz, G-Miami. Diaz takes over that ol' Flip Murray role.
41-ORLANDO: Mike Gansy, SG-West Virginia. Good shooter who can come in and hit shots for Magic
42-CLEVELAND [from Phil]: Allan Ray, PG-Villanova. A "point guard" that has NBA range. Good to play alongside LeBron.
43-NEW ORLEANS: Will Blaylock, PG-Iowa State. Could be a nice backup to Chris Paul
44-ORLANDO [from Mil]: Leon Powe, PF-Cal. I love Powe, and he could be a nice workman under the basket alongside Dwight Howard.
45-INDIANA: Eric Williams, PF-Wake Forest. A physical big man.
46-UTAH [from Chi]: Gerry McNamara, PG-Syracuse. Why not?
47-UTAH: Brandon Bowman, SF-Georgetown. An unselfish athlete that fits Utah's system.
48-WASHINGTON: Ryan Hollins, C-UCLA. Needs to put some weight on.
49-DENVER: Pops Mensah-Bonsu, PF-G Washington. A guy who can do some dirty work under the basket
50-CHARLOTTE [from Sac]: Darius Washington, PG-Memphis. A guy with heart that would fill in as Felton's reserve.
51-LA LAKERS: Bobby Jones, SG-Washington. A defensive hawk who the Lakers could use to help lock down opponent's swingmen.
52-LA CLIPPERS: Craig Smith, PF-Boston College. NBA body who works well offensively around the basket
53-SEATTLE [from Mem]: Hasan Adams, SG-Arizona. A tad too small, but a freak athlete.
54-NEW JERSEY: Eric Hicks, PF-Cincinnati. A big bruising guy who works really, really hard.
55-CLEVELAND: Renaldo Balkman, F-So Carolina. He can defend all over the place and works hard on the glass.
56-TORONTO [from Mia]: Louis Admunson, F-UNLV. Big time rebounder.
57-MINNESOTA [from Phx]: Taj Gray, F-Oklahoma. The next Gary Trent??
58-DALLAS: James Augustine, C-Illinois. Not that great, but serviceable.
59-SAN ANTONIO: Yotam Holperin, SG-Israel. What did you expect??
60-DETROIT: Justin Williams, C-Wyoming. A freak shot blocker.