Potential Steals of the NBA Draft

Every year there are players that fall through the draft and end up getting picked in the late first round or second round.  A lot of the players that are picked this late don't pan out but some of these players turn into all stars, sixth men of the year, or even just better than average role players.  Players like Paul Millsap, Carl Landry, Glenn Davis, Marc Gasol, DeAndre Jordan, Mario Chalmers, Omer Asik, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Sam Yound, Dejuan Blair, Marcus Thornton, Landry Fields have all been picked in the second round of the draft only to defy scouting reports and make huge impacts on their teams.  This year's draft is said to be a weak draft, but I believe that it is full of solid role players who will be able to step in and make a difference either immediately or down the road.  Here is my list of 10 potential steals in the second round.  Some of these players could go in the first round when all said and done, but at this point the jury is still out and question marks remain for each of these guys.  Some of these guys could also go undrafted and make a roster in the offseason or spend some time in the NBDL.

1. Travis Leslie, SG, Georgia- Leslie has great athletic ability, he is a decent slasher to the basket and is a top tier defender.  He could turn into a Tony Allen type impact player for a good team because of his hard nosed defense and commitment on the boards.  As a junior Leslie averaged 7 rebounds per game as a shooting guard, one thing that all scouts have been saying during this draft process (mostly in regards to Kenneth Faried) is rebounding is one thing that transfers to the NBA game.  That bodes well for Leslie, I think the Heat are a potential option.  They could start him at the point to lock down smaller point guards, and let LeBron handle more of the point guard responsibilities on offense.  He will have to improve his shaky jump shot in that situation.

2. Jeremy Tyler, PF, Japan- After Tyler interviewed and measured well in Chicago it is possible he could land in the first round and possibly even the lottery, but for as many positives there are about this kid there are questions.  He had two disastrous seasons overseas and concerns about character and work ethic have been following ever since.  He has shown improved maturity, a nice skill set, and incredible measurements since the draft process began.  Tyler could easily fall in the draft and if he does look for someone to grab him at the end of the first or early second. It will be a few years before this pick pays off but it has the potential to be a huge addition.

3. Jereme Richmond, SF, Syracuse- Richmond surprised a lot of people by declaring for the draft after his freshman season.  He showcased his length and athleticism all season, but is still rough around the edges offensively.  If Richmond puts in the work his athleticism could allow him to be a defensive stopper and a dynamic offensive player.  He has a poor jump shot and has mediocre ball handling, so he will spend most of his first year in the NBDL or the end of the bench. The reward is definitely worth the risk with Richmond, and I think he could be one of the top players of the draft in a few years.

4. Darius Morris, PG, Michigan- Darius Morris' draft stock has been up and down, with most scouts believing he should have stayed in Ann Arbor for one more year. He chose to declare and is a fringe first rounder who many compare to a second coming of Andre Miller.  Morris is a big guard who is great at setting up teammates and finishing at the hoop, but lacks a solid jump shot.  It will be interesting to see where he lands, Darius has the potential to turn into a productive back up on a playoff team right away.

5. Nolan Smith, PG, Duke- It surprises me how little people are talking about Nolan Smith, who had a great senior campaign.  He proved he can create his own shot by slashing to the basket and he is an above average 3 point shooter.  He also has heart and great leadership qualities that the winning teams always seem to have.  I think he could be awesome on a team like Chicago or Miami and I expect him to be drafted in the last 3 picks of the first round or by Miami with the first pick of the second. I think he will be a productive pro and will be in the league a long time.

6. Kyle Singler, SF, Duke- Singler should have come out last year when he was projected to be a mid to late first round pick.  He could still land in the first 30 picks, but his stock is way down after a senior season that did not see much improvement from past years.  The good news is he is still a heady, hardworking and productive player (not to mention all of his trick shots)  that any team would like to have on their roster.  I think he will be a Mike Dunleavy player off the bench, averaging about 10 points per game and stretching the defense.  I think he could be a real option at 24 for Oklahoma City, but if he falls to the second round he might be able to bring some security to the Clippers small forward position as a nice rotation player.

7.JaJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue- Johnson has improved each year of college and was one of the top shot blockers in all of the NCAA last year.  His slender frame and older age may have him falling down draft boards, but I think he could contribute in the future.  Johnson improved his mid range jumper and now can drain a 10-15 footer.  Weak side defense is his best skill, swooping over to reject shots with his long arms and leaping ability.  I think he will surprise a lot of people.

8. Keith Benson, C, Oakland- Benson played against subpar competition for most of his collegiate career, but at times when he played against top tier teams he showed up and was able to play well.  He has legitimate size to be a center in the NBA and has some nice offensive moves to go along with his shot blocking.  He is a little skinny and will need to bulk up to compete daily at the next level.  Benson will also have to improve his offensive game and footwork.  Overall I think he will be a nice addition to whichever team decides to draft Benson.

9.LaceDarius Dunn, SG, Baylor- Dunn is a streaky shooter who reminds me a lot of Marcus Thornton.  When he gets his shot to fall opposing teams better watch out.  He would be perfect on a team such as the Suns or other teams who don't mind jacking up some threes. Dunn is a little undersized for the shooting guard, but he has an NBA type build and can definitely score at the next level. Size and defense are deterring teams at the moment, but at some point in the second round someone should take a chance on him.

10. Ben Hansbrough, PG, Notre Dame- After his big brother Tyler proved many of his critics wrong it is hard not to believe his younger brother will do the same.  Like Tyler, Ben plays with passion and enough heart for the whole team.  He would be a nice addition as a bench player that you could count on in tough situations, and he proved that he can shoot the ball as well.  I expect him to be taken at the bottom of the second round or go undrafted, but I think he is such a tough competitor and hard worker that he will find his way onto a roster and make a name for himself.  

NBA Draft: Cleveland Wins Lottery

The draft order is finally set and the Cavs look to be the big winner with 2 picks in the top 4.  There have been rumors that the Timberwolves will try and move down to add a veteran player and there have been rumblings that  teams such as the Blazers will target a player and try to move up to get them.  The players also just finished up at the Chicago combine and a few players such as Kanter and Marshon Brooks may have improved their stocks.  


1. Cleveland Cavaliers-Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke- Cleveland takes the best prospect in the draft by choosing Irving.  He may not have the immediate impact as some recent first overall picks, but as the year goes on I think his game will improve.  


2. Minnesota Timberwolves- Enes Kanter, C, Turkey- Kanter had a good showing in Chicago and showed off his athleticism.  He would take over for Darko as the starting center and would be a nice fit next to Beasley, Love, and Randolph.  


3. Utah Jazz- Derrick Williams, SF, Arizona- Utah lucks out and gets the player who may be the best in the draft.  He also fills a need at the small forward position and as a potent scorer.  He would be a great fit for the Jazz.


4. Cleveland Cavaliers-Kawahi Leonard, SF, San Diego State- Leonard is shooting up the draft board because of his freaky wingspan, improved shooting, and awesome defense.  He reminds me a lot of Gerald Wallace, and it looks like he still has room to improve his offensive game.  

5. Toronto Raptors- Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky- Knight has the ability to shoot the lights out at the next level.  He would be a nice fit next to DeRozan and may finally force Calderon out of Toronto.


6. Washington Wizards- Jonas Valanciunas, PF, Lithuania- Jonas is widely considered the best foreign prospect in the draft, but contract concerns may cause him to fall in the draft.  Washington could take a chance on him as Andre Blatche is consistently inconsistent.  Jonas could be a nice fit next to McGee.


7. Sacramento Kings- Kemba Walker, PG, Connecticut- Walker has been able to fit in to the various needs of team during his college career.  He has shown the ability to be a solid defender, a brilliant scorer, and a distributor at different points of his time at Uconn.  Kemba would be a nice fit at the point guard and wouldn't have to be the main scorer with Evans and Cousins already on the team.


8. Detroit Pistons- Jan Vesely, PF, Czech Republic- Vesely is a tough scrappy player that isn't afraid to get on the boards.  He would be a nice fit next to Monroe and his ruggedness would be a perfect fit on this Detroit team.

9. Charlotte Bobcats-Tristian Thompson, PF, Texas- Tristian Thompson is a player who could jump up the boards before the draft.  He is athletically gifted with extremely long arms which allow him to be a scary shot blocker.  He will need to improve offensively but has the work ethic to make the transition.


10. Milwaukee Bucks-Bismack Biyombo, PF, Congo- Biyombo has elite athletic ability.  He can jump out of the gym and has extremely long arms.  He reminds a lot of people of Serge Ibaka.  There are questions concerning his age and reports saying he could be as old as 26.  


11. Golden State Warriors-Jordan Hamilton, SF, Texas- The Warriors have a lot of needs, Jordan Hamilton could fill the need at SF.  Dorrell Wright had a coming out party last season, but the Hamilton has the potential to be a better all around player.


12. Utah Jazz- Alec Burks, SG, Colorado- Alec Burks is the most talented 2 guard in the draft and if a team falls in love with his slashing ability he could be taken in the top 10, possibly to the Bobcats or Bucks.  If the Jazz land him their offensive potency will be incredibly improved by the draft.  


13. Phoenix Suns-  Marcus Morris, PF, Kansas-  Marcus is believed to be the more talented of the twins, but just barely.  He can step out and consistently drill the mid range jumper and he has great basketball IQ. 


14. Houston Rockets-Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State- Singleton is a physical defender at the three position and will add another solid roll player to the deep Rocket's bench.

15. Indiana Pacers-Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence- Brooks had a great combine in Chicago and measured very well.  He has explosiveness and is a great shooter from the perimeter.  He could be the dynamic scorer that the Pacers need at the shooting guard position.  


16. Philadelphia 76ers- Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee- Tobias Harris could make up for the potential loss of Thaddeus Young and play the same type of role off the bench.  Harris has a lot of potential and he showed a lot of room to improve during his only season at Tennessee.


17. New York Knicks- Donatas Montiejunas, PF, Lithuania- The Knicks need a big man and Montejunas could fill that need.  Ideally the Knicks would get a center, but Donatas is more of a stretch power forward.  He is has a great outside shot and is talented around the basket.  This would move Amare to the center position, which he has been successful playing in the past.


18. Washington Wizards- Jimmer Freddette, PG, BYU- Jimmer would be a nice back up for John Wall.  He could come off the bench and be a lethal scorer for 15 minutes per game.  He has amazing range on his jump shot and he has proved he is not outmatched athletically.


19. Charlotte Bobcats- Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State- The Bobcats need a legitimate shooting guard, Thompson is the best available.  Klay had a very productive season in Pullman last season and should go around this area on draft day.  


20. Minnesota Timberwolves-Reggie Jackson, PG, Boston College- It wouldn't be a draft if the Wolves didn't take a point guard, but at least Jackson can double as a scoring guard at the next level.  Jackson has a huge wingspan and has been compared to Russell Westbrook.  


21. Portland Trail Blazers- Kenneth Faried, PF, Moorehead State- Faried could be drafted much higher, possibly by the Knicks, because of his relentless rebounding.  Rebounding is one skill that is easily translatable to the NBA game, and he is the best.  


22. Denver Nuggets-Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas- Markieff Morris would be a perfect replacement for Kenyon Martin if they decide to let the veteran go.  Morris is the bigger of the twins, and is a very good rebounder and shot blocker.  

23. Houston Rockets-Josh Selby, PG, Kansas- Selby who is a player that did not live up to his hype this past season.  He is athletic and has a nice shooting stroke, but is very inconsistent and did not show he is ready to be the leader of a team yet.


24. Oklahoma City Thunder- Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA- Honeycutt is a unselfish, high IQ player that would be perfect off the bench for the Thunder.  He needs to improve his jump shot, but his defense and length would help immediately.


25. Boston Celtics- Jordan Williams, C, Maryland- Williams is said to have lost about 15 pounds since the season ended.  He has a lot of room to improve, but he is a big body in the middle which the Celtics missed this post season.




26. Dallas Mavericks- Nikola Mirotic, SF, Serbia- Mirotic is compared to a young Peja Stojakavic because of his pure shooting stroke.  He still needs a few years to improve but he could be a steal in a year or two.


27. New Jersey Nets- Justin Harper, PF, Richmond- Harper is a stretch 4 with NBA dna.  He would be a nice complement to Brook Lopez.

28. Chicago Bulls- Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra- Jenkins can flat out score.  He is a little undersized for a NBA shooting guard but he is fast enough to get to the basket off the dribble and finish at the hoop.


29. San Antonio Spurs- Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil- Nogueira is a raw defensive minded and athletically gifted center.  He will most likely head to Europe for a year or two before he is ready.


30. Chicago Bulls-Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois- The Bulls could use a back up at the small forward, Jereme Richmond will not be able to fill that need immediately.  He will, however, be in a perfect situation to grow and work on his game to go along with his elite athleticism.  This would be a perfect place for Richmond to grow into a great player along side Rose.


Second Round
31. Miami Heat- Nolan Smith, PG, Duke
32. Cleveland Cavaliers- Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia
33. Detroit Pistons- Darius Morris, PG, Michigan 
34. Washington Wizards- Davis Bertans, SF, Latvia
35. Sacramento Kings- Norris Cole, PG, Cleveland State
36. New Jersey Nets- Travis Leslie, SG, Georgia
37. Los Angeles Clippers-Kyle Singler, SF, Duke
38. Houston Rockets- Keith Benson, C, Oakland
39. Charlotte Bobcats- Malcolm Lee, PG, UCLA
40. Milwaukee Bucks- Chandler Parsons, SF, Florida
41. Los Angeles Lakers-Bojan Bagdonavic, SF, Serbia
42. Indiana Pacers- JaJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue
43. Chicago Bulls- Nikola Vucevic, PF, USC
44. Golden State Warriors- E'Twaun Moore, SG, Purdue
45. New Orleans Hornets-Jon Leur, PF, Wisconsin
46. Los Angeles Lakers- Jeremy Tyler, PF, Japan
47. Los Angeles Clippers- Scotty Hopson, SG, Tennessee
48. Atlanta Hawks- Shelvin Mack, PG, Butler
49. Memphis Grizzlies- Justin Holiday, SF, Washington
50. Philadelphia 76ers- Isaiah Thomas, PG, Washington
51. Portland Trail Blazers-Corey Joseph, PG, Texas
52. Denver Nuggets- Jamine Peterson, SF, NBDL
53. Orlando Magic- Vernon Macklin, PF, Florida
54. Cleveland Cavaliers- Michael Dunigan, C, Oregon
55. Boston Celtics- Jimmy Butler, SF, Marquette
56. Los Angeles Lakers- Demetri McCamey, PG, Illinois
57. Dallas Mavericks- Jacob Pullen, PG, Kansas State
58. Los Angeles Lakers-LaceDarius Dunn, SG, Baylor
59. San Antonio Spurs-Joffrey Lauvergne, PF, France
60. Sacramento Kings- Ben Hansbrough, PG, Notre Dame

NBA Draft 6.0, Underclassmen Deadline

Derrick Williams has solidified
his position in the top 3.

The deadline for underclassmen to enter the draft has passed, but underclassmen who have not hired an agent have retained their NCAA eligibility and can return to school.  Many of the top prospects have already decided to stay in school  and that has weakened an already weak draft class.  Because a lot of top prospects from college are out of the draft I expect scouts to turn their attention to Europe and bring over a lot more prospects than in recent years.

For more mock drafts here is a link to my Mock Draft Database.

Round 1

1. Minnesota-Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke-Drafting Irving gives them a trade asset in either Irving himself if Rubio comes over, or in the rights to Rubio.  The won't have 2 rookie point guards next year, that is for sure.  If they get a certain decision from Rubio it will greatly impact their choice.  If he does come this pick is Derrick Williams all the way, if not then I think Irving is a good pick.

2.  Cleveland-Derrick Williams, SF, Arizona- With a lot of the top tier players in this draft dropping out Derrick Williams' status as a top three pick is all but set in stone.  He most likely would have been a top pick anyway, but now there is no chance of him slipping past the 2nd spot in the draft.  

Kanter is still in the running for
the number one overall pick.

3. Toronto- Enes Kanter, C, Turkey-Enes Kanter has been projected as a top pick all season, but being ruled ineligible could have hurt his stock.  He will benefit the same way that Williams will and is pretty much assured a top 3 pick.  He would add a lot of toughness to Toronto's front line and would add more skill around the basket then Reggie Evans or Ed Davis.  

4. Washington- Bismack Biombo, PF, Congo- Biombo has soared up the draft charts after a few good showings at Nike camps.  Bimombo is being compared to an Ibaka like player who has freaky long arms and amazing athleticism.  There are a lot of questions about his age, I've read that he could be anywhere from 17 to 26.  Even if he is around 22 or 23 he still has the potential and natural ability to make a difference.  He wouldn't be a perfect fit for Washington, but his upside is tremendous and he could develop nicely next to McGee.

5. Sacramento- Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky- Brandon Knight had a good tournament which has improved his draft stock.  He is a gifted athlete and would form a large back court with Evans.  The problem may be that he likes the ball in his hand, which Evans also does not to mention Thornton. If he develops he could be a nice piece in the young, but immature, Kings franchise.

6. Utah- From New Jersey-Terrence Jones, SF, Kentucky- Terrence Jones would give the Jazz a huge front 3 with Favors, Jefferson and Jones.  The multi talented forward would also give the team a lot of versatility with their line ups.

Valanciunas is one of the top Euro players
because of his size and skill around the basket.

7. Detroit- Jonas Valanciunas, PF, Lithuania- Valanciunas is a skilled scorer around the hoop and would complement Monroe very well.  They could be a good high low option because both are good passers. If he clears up contract issues with his current Euro league team he will be drafted much higher.

8. Cleveland- From LA Clippers-Kemba Walker, PG, Connecticut- Kemba showed that he can carry a team on his back all year.  Despite his size he is a dynamite scorer who can finish at the hoop and has a lethal long range shot.  He may never be an all star but he will be a very good player and has a knack to show up in crunch time.

9. Charlotte- Tristian Thompson, PF, Texas- Thompson added his name close to the deadline and could retract it if he isn't assured a lottery pick.  He is a bit undersized for the power forward position, but he makes up for it with long arms, a great motor, and good overall IQ.  He needs to work on his raw offensive game, but he is definitely a talented basketball player.  

10. Milwaukee- Jan Vesely, PF, Czech Republic- Vesely is a physical defender and an active rebounder.  He needs to improve his offensive game but his hustle and gritty play would be a good combination with Bogut on the front line of a young Bucks team. 

11. Golden State- Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego St- Leonard would give the Warriors a player that does all the dirty work.  Leonard is a great defender and rebounds very well for his position. He often gets compared to a Shawn Marion type player, but he reminds me a lot of Gerald Wallace.  He may struggle his first year or two, but he could develop into a great player.  I think he could be one guy that surprises people and turns into a player who makes an all star team at least once.

Alec Burks repeatedly showed the ability
to get to the hoop and finish against
any competition.

12. Utah-Alec Burks, SG, Colorado- Utah needs a shooting guard that can create his own shot and Burks is the best available.  He is fearless driving to the basket and is great at taking his man off the dribble, but Burks really needs to improve his jumper to make a difference on this current Jazz squad.

13. Phoenix-Jordan Hamilton, SF, Texas- Hamilton would be a nice fit in Phoenix's run and gun system.  He can be a great scorer and his game resembles Rashard Lewis'.  His main problem is shot selection as he sometimes gets a little shot happy and jacks them up from anywhere.  

14. Houston- From New York- Lucas Nogueira- In a draft void of many big men Nogueira could go around here.  He is a young, raw, 7 footer who is a defensive presence.  Houston needs a defensive presence and might be tempted by his potential, although their roster already contains a few project big men in Thabeet and Jordan Hill.

15. Indiana- Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania- Motiejunas could have been a high pick last year but decided to withdraw his name.  He is compared to Nowitzki because he has a sweet stroke for a 7 footer.   He would be a nice fit for an Indiana team that is rapidly improving.

16. Philadelphia- Marcus Morris, PF, Kansas- Marcus Morris could be a nice stretch 4 for the 76ers.  He showed that he can nail an outside jumper consistently, but will still need to improve.  He is a tough, versatile player who could take the place of Thaddeus Young if he leaves via free agency.

17. New York- From Houston- Jimmer Freddette, PG, BYU- Freddette could be great in New York.  He is a natural scorer from the point guard position who has incredibly deep range on his jumper.  He is tough as nails, which anyone playing in New York needs to be.  He will have to learn to play off the ball if he wants to play with Melo and Stoudamire.

Jackson's athletic ability and size
 for a point guard could make him the steal of the draft.

18. Washington- From Atlanta-Reggie Jackson, PG, Boston College- Jackson has been compared to Russell Westbrook and he could be a steal.  He would have to come off the bench as a combo guard, but he could be a difference maker with his athleticism.  Jackson could play with Wall or back him up.

19. Charlotte-From Portland, Via New Orleans-Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee- Harris is a 3/4 tweener, but he is a very cerebral player for someone his age and because of that I think he will make it.  He has to define his position either playing down low and improving his strength or playing on the wing and improve his shooting and quickness.

20. Minnesota- From Memphis-  Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA- Honeycutt is a long lanky player in the mold of Matt Barnes.  He is a scrappy player who has the skill set to positively effect a game in many ways.  He needs to improve his shooting if he wants to stick around.  If he goes to Minnesota I expect him to spend time in the D-league because they are stacked with wing players.

21. Portland-  Kenneth Faried, PF, Morehead State- Faried showed how good of a rebounder he is in the first 2 rounds of the tournament.  He seemed to get the ball anytime he was near it.  His hustle and great defense would be a great addition to a Blazers team who has continued to grow during adversity.

22. Denver- Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas- Markieff is the better rebounder and shot blocker of the Morris twins, and he would help out Denver's front line. He would add more youth to the team and would bring the toughness that you might not get if you played Gallinari at the 4 position.

23.  Houston- From Phoenix- Josh Selby, PG, Kansas-Selby had a tough year but at one point was considered a lottery pick.  I think if he decides to enter the draft his stock will rise when the work outs start.  Teams will remember what they liked before and he will go in the mid first round.  He could turn into the answer at point guard, but he will have to compete with Lowry and Dragic for playing time.

Singler had a great college career and will
turn that success into being a
 great role player in the NBA.

24. Oklahoma City- Kyle Singler, SF, Duke- Oklahoma has an incredibly deep team with quality back ups at every position except for sf.  Singler would come in, much like Collison does, and be the fundamentally sound player that the Thunder need.  I think of him as a Mike Dunleavy clone, a solid player with a nice shooting touch.  He would be player who is smart enough to identify his roll, and fill it immediately.

25. Boston- Augusto Lima, PF, Brazil- Is a long and lanky forward who can run the floor.  He has crazy athleticism, but like a lot of young foreign players is very raw on the offensive end.  He is a project pick that could turn into a steal for the Celtics.

26. Dallas- Davis Bertans, SF, Latvia- Dallas needs help at the small forward position.  Davis Bertans is a big small forward who has a great shot and a lightning fast release.  He needs to add weight to compete against the more physical NBA style of play, but he is a project that could pay off in a few years.

27. New Jersey- From LA Lakers- Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State-  Damion James played well when he was on the court for the Nets last  year, but he was often injured and it is still yet to be seen if he is the small forward of the future for the team or just a very good reserve.  Chris Singleton could help solidify that position and even play spot minutes at the 4.  Singleton has the ability to be a lock down defender at the next level.

28. Chicago- From Toronto, Via Miami-Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State- Chicago fills the hole at shooting guard with the sharp shooting Thompson.  Thompson had some off the court troubles last season, but you can't deny his talent as a shooter.  

29. San Antonio-JaJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue- JaJuan is a multi talented forward who has improved each year at Purdue.  He is also a great shot blocker and has a huge wing span.  The problem with Johnson is he is rail thin and doesn't have the strength to play in the post yet.  

Jereme Richmond will need to grow as a player,
but his supreme athletic ability puts him
in the position to be great.

30. Chicago-Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois- Jereme Richmond is extremely raw but he could go much higher in the middle of the first round.  Richmond has elite athletic ability and has shown signs of becoming a great player.  He could turn into an amazing addition for the Bulls.

Round 2

31. Miami- From Minnesota- Nolan Smith, PG, Duke

32. Cleveland- Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

33. Detroit- From Toronto-Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia

34. Washington- Bojan Bogdanovic, SF, Serbia

Kieth Benson has shown the ability
to compete on defense against anyone
 on the college level.

35. New Jersey- Justin Harper, PF, Richmond

36. Sacramento- Nikola Mirotic, SF, Serbia

37. LA Clippers- From Detroit-Keith Benson, C, Oakland

38. Houston- From LA Clippers-Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

39. Charlotte- Travis Leslie, SG, Georgia

40. Milwaukee- E'twaun Moore, SG, Purdue

41. LA Lakers- From Golden State- Shelvin Mack, PG, Butler

42. Indiana- Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra

43. Chicago- From Utah-  John Leur, PF, Wisconsin

44. Golden State- From Chicago, Via Phoenix- Orlando Johnson, F, UC Santa Barbra

Orlando Johnson is a do it
all guard who could be a steal
in the second round.

45. New Orleans- From Philadelphia- Robin Benzing, PF, Germany 

46. LA Lakers- From New York-  Jordan Williams, C, Maryland

47. LA Clippers- From Houston- Justin Holiday, SF, Washington

48. Atlanta- Norris Cole, PG, Cleveland St.

49. Philadelphia- From New Orleans- Mamadou Diarra, C, Chaminade

50. Memphis- Jamine Peterson, SF, D-league

51. Portland- Demetri McCamey, PG, Illinois

52. Detroit- From Denver-  Scotty Hopson, SG, Tennessee

While at Oregon Dunigan didn't always
 play to his size, he will have to
 show that he can compete against
bigger players to have a chance
in the NBA.

53. Orlando-Michael Dunigan, C, Oregon

54. Cleveland- From Oklahoma City- Furkan Aldemir, PF, Turkey

55. Boston- Ben Hansbrough, PG, Notre Dame

56.LA Lakers-Lacedarius Dunn, SG, Baylor

57. Dallas- Giorgi Shermadini, C, Greece

58. LA Lakers- From Miami- Jeremy Tyler, PF, Japan

59. San Antonio-Chandler Parsons, SF, Florida

60. Sacramento- From Milwaukee, Via Chicago- DeAndre Liggins, SF, Kentucky

2009-10 NBA Mock Redraft

With two years under their belt some of the NBA's sophomore players are becoming game changers.  There have been some surprises both good and bad.  I will go through and redraft the first round of the 2009'10 draft and give ratings of the top 30 players in the class.

Blake Griffin dunked over his
opponents all season.

1. Clippers- Actual pick Blake Griffin, Redraft Blake Griffin- Griffin missed his rookie season with a severe knee injury.  When this season began noone knew what to expect, critics said that he would not be effective because all he knew how to do was dunk, he was injury prone, his arms were too short.  They were all wrong, Griffin came out from day one and proved people wrong.  He was dominant on the glass averaging 12 rebounds per game, and he was just as impressive on the offensive end averaging 23 points.  The most impressive thing is that he showed that he still hasn't even began to get to his potential.  Blake could easily be one of the top 3 players in the league in a few years.

2. Grizzlies-Actual pick Hasheem Thabeet, Redraft Stephen Curry- Thabeet has turned out to be a bust so far and was traded away mid season.  Curry on the other hand has turned into a great player.  Its true that Conley had a very good season this year, but the combination of the two could have been awesome.  Curry can play the point and two guard against smaller 2 guards.  He is a crafty passer and can create his own shot.  He has been called the closest thing to steve nash out there, and we all know how great of a shooter Curry is.

3. Thunder- Actual pick James Harden, Redraft James Harden- I considered Wesley Matthews here because James Harden hasn't turned out the way most people though he would.  He spent his rookie year averaging only 10 points off the bench for a young talented Oklahoma squad.  This year began in the same way, but a midseason trade of Jeff Green opened a role as a scorer for Harden and he has not dissapointed.  Since the trade he has averaged over 16 points per game and he has really started to find his stride.  There may be a few players who have produced more, but for this team he is a perfect fit because he does not need the ball to be productive.  He plays like a veteran letting the ball come to him in the flow of the offense.

Jrue Holiday looks like he is the real deal.

4. Kings- Actual pick Tyreke Evans, Redraft Jrue Holiday- Jrue Holiday struggled his rookie year but this year he showed marked improvement.  He is a shut down defender and he has extremely improved his offensive game.  He brings leadership and toughness to the court every night.  He is also the youngest player in this class and his ceiling is sky high.  The Kings would have been better off taking Holiday over Evans because of the character issues Evans has had and Holiday is a more pure point guard who can still score the ball.

5 Timberwolves- Actual pick Ricky Rubio, Redraft Tyreke Evans- Rubio is still over in Europe and we don't know if he will ever come over, not to mention he played terrible in his Euro league this year.  Evans was the rookie of the year last year, but this year he has been plagued by numerous injuries.  His jumper hasn't improved much, but he can still score the ball in bunches.  During his rookie season he averaged 5 assists per game, but this year he did not match that production.  He is still a very good player,  but he needs to work on distributing the ball if he wants to stay at the point guard position.

6.Timberwolves- Actual pick Jonny Flynn, Redraft DeMar DeRozan- DeRozan has turned into a very good scoring guard.  He has amazing athleticism and has improved his jump shot this season, although it still has a way to go.  He looks to be a player that could improve even more in his 3rd season and could become a big time player.  Minnesota would of had a physically huge and athletic starting 1 and 2 if this scenario had worked out.

Serge has become a premier shot blocker.

7.Warriors- Actual pick Stephen Curry. Redraft Serge Ibaka- Ibaka has been a huge surprise for the Thunder.  He is a rising star in this league, and you can catch him in the highlight reels throwing down an incredible dunk almost every night.  He has a good jump shot and is a good free throw shooter for a big man his size, and more importantly his age.  He is quickly becoming a dominant big man in this league, and is just what the Warriors need.

8.Knicks- Actual pick Jordan Hill Redraft Ricky Rubio- If this Ricky had actually fell this far he might already be in the NBA playing in NY.  Some say that Ricky will be an amazing player becase of his floor vision and size, but so far he has struggled in Euro league.  He needs to improve his shot but we all know he is a great passer and would be great in D'Antoni's system.  I am skeptical of his potential, but he could fit in NY.

9. Raptors- Actual pick DeMar DeRozan, Redraft Wesley Mathews Jr- Wesley has turned out to be a very good player and the steal of this draft.  Matthews went undrafted, but caught a lucky break on the Jazz last season.  He is a player that does everything very well.  He has proven he can be a starting guard in the league and he has improved along the way.  The most impressive improvement he has made is his 3 point range, shooting over 40%. He still has room to grow now that he is a mainstay in the starting lineup, and there is no reason to think he won't do it.

10. Bucks- Actual pick Brandon Jennings, Redraft Brandon jennings- Jennings had a great first half of his rookie year and then kind of dropped off, not saying he didn't play well he just couldn't maintain his extremely high level of play. This year he has been consistently productive for the Bucks.  He has battled some injuries, but he has improved his shot selection and knows how to get everyone into the game. He seems to be a good fit in Milwaukee.

Blair is a beast down low
despite being undersized.

11. Nets- Actual pick Terrence Williams, Redraft DeJuan Blair- Williams has already been traded away after producing nothing but headaches for the Nets.  Blair would have been a solid player to put next to Lopez. Despite knee concerns and being undersized Blair has continued to be a beast in the paint.  Lopez is a little light on the glass and Blair has the perfect attitude to make up for it.

12. Bobcats- Actual pick Gerald Henderson, Redraft Marcus Thornton- Thornton has turned out to be one of the most deadly, and streaky, scorers in the draft. He would give the Bobcats a dangerous outside threat, which they currently lack.  Thornton averaged 20 points per game after a midseason trade landed him in Sacramento.  Not only is he a scorer but he can play some decent defense as well.  The only knock on him is that he is undersized, but that hasn't held him up one bit.

13. Pacers- Actual pick Tyler Hansbrough, Redraft Darren Collison- Darren Collison has already landed with Indiana via trade, but I really like the fit with Granger and Hibbert.  Collison is incredibly fast with the ball in transition and knows how to get the ball to the open man in the half court.  He has a knack for getting deep into the lane against other teams defenses and he knows how to either finish with a patented floated or kick it out to the 3 point shooters.

Lawson's speed is often
 unmatched on the court.

14.Suns- Actual pick Earl Clark, Redraft Ty Lawson- Lawson would be awesome in Phoenix's fast break offense.  He would be the new point guard after Nash retires. Lawson has proven he can get the job done at this level.  He is one of the fastest players in the league and he has learned how to finish in traffic, he has also worked on his 3 point shot.

15. Pistons- Actual pick Austin Daye, Redraft Tyler Hansbrough- Hansbrough is a Detroit kind of player. He is a tough, hard working, big man with a relentless motor. He has proven doubters wrong and showed that he can make a jumper, rebound against more athletic players, and finish around the rim.  He will never be a star but he is the kind of tough minded scrappy players coaches love.

16. Bulls- Actual pick James Johnson, redraft Taj Gibson- The Bulls get Taj earlier this time around. Taj is a NBA caliber player for sure. Gibson showed he is a reliable defender and rebounder and can consistently make open jumpers.  He has been a nice surprise for the Bulls and is a key part to their front line rotation.

Gibson is a key contributor on the Bulls.

17. 76ers- Actual pick Jrue Holiday, Redraft Jonny Flynn-Jonny Flynn is a quick point guard who could have been effective on the fast break with all of that athletic ability they have.  He had a nice rookie campaign, but sat out the first half of this season recovering from a hip injury and has never fully recovered.  His status on the Wolves is up in the air and he might be used for trade bait.

18. Timberwolves- Actual pick Ty Lawson, Redraft Hasheem Thabeet- With so many picks the Wolves would take a chance on Thabeet. So far Thabeet has done nothing with his chance in the NBA, but who knows Anthony Randolph and Beasley have both played better in Minnesota. If Thabeet could find himself there he still has a ton of potential to empact the game.  His main problem is that he is an offensive liability and he is a fouling machine.  If he could score or block shots at the same rate he fouls he might be up for all star consideration.

19. Hawks- Actual pick Jeff Teague, Redraft Eric Maynor- I think maynor is underrated because he comes off the bench for a good team, he doesn't get the attention or stats that others do. Maynor is a very steady and reliable player who already played like a veteran when he joined the league.  He can lead a team and is a great back up because of his IQ, steady mid range jumper, and leadership.

20. Jazz- Actual pick Eric Maynor, Redraft Jodie Meeks- The Jazz need a shooting guard and Jodie Meeks would have filled that hole.  Meeks has had some good games this season, although he is a streaky score. He has a nice outside game, but he has trouble scoring at the rim because he does not have elite athleticism and does not have ideal height for a 2 guard.

Henderson has often showed
off his athleticism.

21. Hornets- Actual pick Darren Collison, Redraft Gerald Henderson- Genderson has come on for some big games late this season. He is an athletic player and could have been a nice complement to Ariza and Paul.  Henderson can get to the rim and finish and he is improving his mid range shot.  He could still become a good player in the league.

22. Trailblazers- Actual pick Victor Claver, Redraft Jordan Hill- The Blazers seem to be good at developing young raw talents such as Lamarcus Aldridge. Jordan Hill has showed some signs of being a good payer, but cant seem to put it together consistently.  He could have been an athletic front court big man off the bench for the Blazers who need all the help they can get in that area.

23. Kings- Actual pick Omri Casspi, Redraft Earl Clark- Clark has shown some signs since he's been in Orlando.  He barely played at all in Phoenix and they gave up on him. He struggles with his jump shot, but he has some moves in the post. He is very versatile and can take larger players off the dribble and post up smaller players.  He still has a lot of work to do, but he still has a ton of potential.

24. Mavericks- Actual pick B.J. Mullens, Redraft Rodrigue Beaubois- The Mavs acquired Beaubois from the Thunder on draft day, so in this draft we will forgo the trade and have the Mavs pick him at 24.  Beaubois has a lot of potential but injuries have preventing him from making a full impact.

Daye has displayed an improving
 all around game.

25. Thunder- Actual pick Rodrigue Beaubois, Redraft Austin Daye- The Thunder actually ended up with Mullens in this draft and he is still in the D league.  Austin Daye could back up Durant and fill in for Jeff Green's departure. He is a player that is progressing, he is shooting better and is hitting the glass more consistently this year.  He still needs to add a lot of weight and strength.

26. Bulls- Actual pick Taj Gibson, Redraft Wayne Ellington- Ellington has had some big games for the Wolves this season, but he has not been able to keep the effort up consistently.  He has an accurate jumper with 3 point range, but he is a bit one dimensional.  He could still develop into a consistently productive player in the right system and environment.

27. Grizzlies Actual pick Demarre Carroll, Redraft Omri Casspi-Omri had is playing decently for the Kings off the bench, but he is not having the same impact as he did last year.  He is still a tough player who has some range on his jumper. He will stick in the league for a long time because of how hard he competes.

28. Timberwolves Actual pick Wayne Ellington, Redraft Jeff Teague-  Jeff teague is starting in Atlanta, but his has struggled with shot selection and turnovers this season.  He could improve into a decent starter but he will never be an all star.  I think he would be better off the bench, where he could make an impact with his athleticism.

Budinger can finish at the hoop
when he gets in the lane.

29. Lakers- Actual pick Toney Douglas, Redraft Chase Budinger- Budinger would have been a nice back up for the champs.  He can come off the bench and drain threes and he is athletic enough to get to the hoop.

30 Cavaliers- Actial pick Christian Eyenga, Redraft Toney Douglas- Douglas has proved he can play at the point guard position after critics said he was a tweener.  He is a very athletic defender at the point guard position and he has worked on the ability to nail the three.