Post by Denver on Jan 2, 2007 2:39:22 GMT -5
#1 - Philadelphia 76ers - LeBron James SG 6'8'' 240 22 B+ B- B B C+ B
The 76ers entered the ABCA draft lotto with the 2nd best chance at landing phenom Lebron James, and hit the jackpot when it was announced they landed the 1st overall pick. LBJ23 can do it all. Score, pass, rebound, he really is the total package. And at 6'8" and 240 lbs, he has the size to play in the pro level. LeBron James has all the tools to be the next big thing, and after finessing his game in college for a few seasons, he'll be a star in the league in no time.
#2 - Memphis Grizzlies - Andrew Bogut C 7'0'' 245 21 C+ C- C+ B B A
Although they finished with the worst record in the league last season and the best chance at landing LeBron James, the Grizzlies were a little unlucky in the lottery and dropped to 2nd overall. Nonetheless, Memphis should be plenty happy to take Andrew Bogut with the #2 pick. Bogut's game has been compared to that of Vlade Divac', and after heading back to Utah for 1 more season last year, he's more than eager to showcase his talents.
#3 - New Orleans Hornets - Darko Milicic PF 7'0'' 245 21 C+ C- C- B B- A
Although he was rumored to have wanting to play in the U.S. for some time, age restrictions kept Darko overseas until he was eligible. The extra time seems to have paid off. Outside of Andrew Bogut, there aren't very many talented big men available in the draft and seems assured of a top 3 selection. He is a solid defensive player, and manages to block quite a few shots. He is quite mobile for somebody who stands 7 feet, and given the lack of depth in the Hornets front court, Milicic is the consensus pick for New Orleans.
#4 - Seattle Sonics - Brandon Roy SG 6'6'' 210 22 B- B- C+ B- C A
With Allen Iverson testing the FA market, Brandon Roy seems like the logical pick. Although Luol Deng could end up going here, Roy should be a nice addition to run alongside Kirk Hinrich. Roy is a good slasher, and is a good shooter. He rebounds the ball very well, and is easily one of the more polished players available in this years draft. He could probably play 3 positions if needed, and he should be a nice addition for the Sonics back court.
#5 - New Jersey Nets - Sofoklis Schortsanitis C 6'10'' 290 21 B- C- C C+ B- A
Considering their amount of depth at PF and C, Sofo is the pick here. He is very good at getting position down low, and is very comfortable handling the ball and recognizing double teams. For somebody nicknamed "Baby Shaq", he is quick for his size and is definitely what a team like New Jersey could use.
#6 - Golden State Warriors - Randy Foye PG 6'4'' 205 23 B- B- B- C+ C- B
Good size with a great first step, Foye has the ability to burn defenders and get a quick 2 points in the process. His only weakness might be his defined position. There's a chance he'll get outquicked by faster SGs in the league, and his point guard skills are somewhat underdeveloped to run an ABCA offense. Still, he has the potential to become a fine starter, and he although he'll need time to adjust to the pro game, he can become a fine starter for any team. He likely won't fall out of the top 10, and is a player who the Warriors can build their team around. Imagine if they spent some of the 2800 PPs they have on Foye? Scary.
#7- Boston Celtics - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 20 B- C+ C B C+ A
Drawing comparisons to that of Grant Hill, Luol Deng is one of the youngest players in the draft, but also one of the more talented. He does seemingly everything quite well, and doesn't have many weaknesses. If there were something to fault, his outside game is considered weak for the ABCA level, but other than that, he should be able to step in right away and play for Boston.
#8 - Houston Rockets - Adam Morrison SF 6'8'' 205 21 B- B C- C D+ A
Adam Morrison is the best scorer in the draft, but his lack of defense and handling ability is what keeps him from going earlier. He is very comfortable from beyond the arc and is a decent free throw shooter. Houston is a good fit for Morrison, as it should allow him to concentrate on offense and do what he does best. Score.
#9 - Toronto Raptors - Ronnie Brewer SG 6'7'' 220 21 B- C+ C B C+ A
Ronnie Brewer is a good fit in Toronto. With Dwayne Wade and Devin Harris securing the back court, Brewer is the SF they could use. His quick hands and positioning allow him to defend most players, and is rarely out of position on the defensive end. He has good range on his shot, but prefers the mid-range game to get points on the board.
#10 - Orlando Magic - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 186 21 C C- B+ B- C- A
With Steve Nash opting to test Free Agency, the Magic will look to add a future PG and Shaun Livington is their man. Although he's quite raw on the offensive end, he can handle and dish the ball very well for somebody who's 6'7". He is definitely an interesting prospect, and could become a very solid PG someday for somebody who's willing to wait on him to develop.
#11 - Houston Rockets (Via WSH) - Shelden Williams PF 6'9'' 250 23 C+ D D+ B- B- A
J.R. Smith or Sebastien Telfair could go here as well, but I think the Rockets will take Shelden Williams here. He is in the mold of an Antonio Davis type, and could probably play backup PF and C for Houston. He won't ever dominate a game with his scoring, but does play defense and grab rebounds.
#12 - Sacramento Kings - Hilton Armstrong C 6'11'' 235 22 C+ D+ D- B- B- A
A severe lack of depth will surely have the Kings considering Armstrong at 12. He definitely needs to add some muscle to his frame if he wants to bang with the big boys in the paint, and is very light by ABCA standards at just 235 pounds. Although quite raw in terms of his development, he probably won't be a immediate contributor but does have the potential to be a double-double player down the road. He was also former Big East Defensive Player of the Year.
#13 - Indiana Pacers (Via MIN) - J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 21 C+ B C B- D+ B
While J.R. Smith does have a 44 inch vertical, he relies more on his outside shot to get points. His jumper is still inconsistent and needs more work, and he should be a better rebounder for somebody as athletic as he is. He is a fairly decent defender, but definitely needs to use his athleticism to get inside more often.
#14 - Indiana Pacers - Tang Zhengdong C 7'2'' 285 22 B- C C- C+ B- B
With an aging Shaq and Rasheed Wallace in the front court, Zhengdong should be a good addition. He has good range on his jumper, and can hit the open shot all night long. He's also a good rebounder and uses his size well. For somebody who's 7'2" however, he is soft on the defensive end and needs work on his shot blocking. He should be an effective backup big man in his rookie season, and could possibly become an everyday player with a decent training camp.
#15 - Memphis Grizzlies (Via CLE) - Sebastian Telfair PG 6'0'' 165 20 B- C B C+ D A
The native of Brooklyn isn't a sharpshooter by any means, but he is very good at getting inside the lane and getting a quick basket. He has very active feet and is always on the move. He can run all night, and isn't the easiest player to guard because of it.
#16 - Boston Celtics (Via DEN) - Paul Millsap PF 6'8'' 245 20 C+ D+ D+ B- B- B
Although they'd like somebody like Hilton Armstrong or a Josh Boone perhaps, Paul Millsap has comparable talents and is just 20 years old. Although he stands at just 6'8", he is an accomplished rebounder and positions himself to out rebound taller opponents. And given the lack of depth in the Boston front court, he could very well start at PF for them.
#17 - Chicago Bulls - Shannon Brown SG 6'5'' 198 21 C+ B- C B- D+ A
Eddie Jones isn't getting any younger and Cutino Mobley opted to test FA, Shannon Brown is what the Bulls need. He's one of the more balanced SGs available in terms of defensive and offensive ability, and could very well be a steal at #17 for Chicago.
#18 - Los Angeles Lakers - Josh Boone PF 6'10'' 237 22 C D+ D+ B- B- B
Although his offensive skills are limited, he does all the dirty work on the court. He has good shot blocking skills and is a shot changer. He fights hard for rebounds, and simply hustles every night. He struggles from the free throw line, and has a limited arsenal offensively. Although not a stud by any means, he will be an excellent defensive spark off the bench in the ABCA.
#19 - Houston Rockets (Via SAN) - Richard Roby SG 6'5'' 195 21 B- C B- C+ C+ A
Roby has a very solid all-around game. He moves very well without the ball, and has a decent mid-range game. Although he still needs work on his outside shooting, he is a very good rebounder for his size. He isn't the greatest defender however, and isn't a very consistent outside shooter. Still, he has the tools to become a solid, everyday player if he can continue to improve himself. He's also the half-brother of Detroit Pistons forward Kenyon Martin.
#20 - Dallas Mavericks - Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 21 C C- C B+ C+ B
The best defender in the draft finds a home in Dallas. What prevents him from going earlier? His shooting is very suspect. He struggles to hit his jumper on a regular basis, and isn't a threat outside of 15 feet. He does rebound very well, and his defensive skills are second to none. He can definitely be a solid rotation player for any team in the league.
#21 - Detroit Pistons - Chris Taft C 6'10'' 261 21 B- D+ D B- C+ C
The Pistons need help at center in the worst way, and Chris Taft is the likely pick. He needs work on his shot, and isn't as mobile as you'd like. If he wants to play center at the pro level, he absolutely needs to improve his rebounding skills, and use his size to his advantage. He definitely has some skills, the only question surrounding him is if he can improve.
#22 - Los Angeles Clippers - Rodney Carney SF 6'7'' 205 22 B- C+ C- B- C B
Very athletic with quick hands and feet, Rodney Carney is just what the Clippers could use if they can't resign Jumaine Jones. Although he occasionally forces bad shots and doesn't see the court well, he does use his athleticism to compensate for his shortcomings.
#23 - Washington Wizards (Via MIL) - Pops Mensah-Bonsu PF 6'9'' 240 22 C+ D D B- C+ B
Bonsu runs the floor very well and gives 110% every time he steps on the court. His lack of offense hurts him, and has no game with his back to the net. He struggles on his jumper outside of 5 feet, and misses some easy open shots from time to time. While his lack of an offensive game may turn some teams off, Washingston's lack of depth dictates they consider somebody like Bonsu or Kris Humphries here.
#24 - Boston Celtics (Via NYK) - Travis Outlaw SF 6'9'' 210 22 C+ C D+ B C B
Much like J.R. Smith, Travis Outlaw is blessed with excellent athleticism but doesn't use it to his advantage as much as he should. He can jump out of the gym, but rarely drives inside. he is a very poor ball handler, and simply doesn't see the passing lanes very well. He is an accomplished defender however, but his offensive skills need some definite improvement.
#25 - Miami Heat - Thabo Sefolosha SG 6'5'' 215 22 C+ C+ C B- C- A
The native of Switzerland, the Italian league product is an interesting prospect. He has decent athletic ability, along with the ability to hit the 3 pointer and open shots. The question is if he can continue to improve himself against better competition in the ABCA. He's one of those kind of players that you could label as a steal, or just as easily being a total bust.
#26 - Phoenix Suns - JJ Redick SG 6'4'' 190 22 C B C+ C- C- A
Redick is very comfortable beyond the arc and is an excellent free throw shooter. His defensive shortcomings are what hold him back in the draft. He is very poor guarding man to man, and will never be a starter in this league if he doesn't improve. He struggles to create his own shot, but should be a good offensive boost off the bench for most teams. Will he be starter material? Probably not, but he could find some decent minutes off the bench for any team looking for some scoring.
#27 - Atlanta Hawks - Jordan Farmar PG 6'2'' 180 20 C B- C+ C+ D+ A
With Deron Williams as the only true PG on their roster, Atlanta could use a backup point and Farmar could be their guy. He is a good PG in terms of setting up the play and dishing the ball, but he is also quite turnover prone and tends to force the play too much. He is a smart player, and should be a decent backup someday.
#28 - Memphis Grizzlies (Via UTA) - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 240 20 C+ D D+ B- C+ B
He was a good college player, but he is simply average in his abilities compared to other big men in the ABCA. He was a good rebounder in college, but can he transform that into success at the pro level remains to be seen. He's also somewhat undersized for PF, and must gain strength if he wants to play down low. Otherwise, opponents will post him up every chance they get, and get an easy basket in the process. He's only 20 years old and definitely a project, but he has the potential to become a decent PF down the road.
#29 - Utah Jazz (Via POR) - Maurice Ager SG 6'5'' 202 22 C+ B- C C+ C- B
The Jazz could use a backup SG and Ager is their man. He excels at running the floor and attacking the basket. He needs work on his defensive skills and rebounding however, and sometimes struggles finding the open man. He can score however, but can he duplicate that success on the pro level is the burning question.
The 76ers entered the ABCA draft lotto with the 2nd best chance at landing phenom Lebron James, and hit the jackpot when it was announced they landed the 1st overall pick. LBJ23 can do it all. Score, pass, rebound, he really is the total package. And at 6'8" and 240 lbs, he has the size to play in the pro level. LeBron James has all the tools to be the next big thing, and after finessing his game in college for a few seasons, he'll be a star in the league in no time.
#2 - Memphis Grizzlies - Andrew Bogut C 7'0'' 245 21 C+ C- C+ B B A
Although they finished with the worst record in the league last season and the best chance at landing LeBron James, the Grizzlies were a little unlucky in the lottery and dropped to 2nd overall. Nonetheless, Memphis should be plenty happy to take Andrew Bogut with the #2 pick. Bogut's game has been compared to that of Vlade Divac', and after heading back to Utah for 1 more season last year, he's more than eager to showcase his talents.
#3 - New Orleans Hornets - Darko Milicic PF 7'0'' 245 21 C+ C- C- B B- A
Although he was rumored to have wanting to play in the U.S. for some time, age restrictions kept Darko overseas until he was eligible. The extra time seems to have paid off. Outside of Andrew Bogut, there aren't very many talented big men available in the draft and seems assured of a top 3 selection. He is a solid defensive player, and manages to block quite a few shots. He is quite mobile for somebody who stands 7 feet, and given the lack of depth in the Hornets front court, Milicic is the consensus pick for New Orleans.
#4 - Seattle Sonics - Brandon Roy SG 6'6'' 210 22 B- B- C+ B- C A
With Allen Iverson testing the FA market, Brandon Roy seems like the logical pick. Although Luol Deng could end up going here, Roy should be a nice addition to run alongside Kirk Hinrich. Roy is a good slasher, and is a good shooter. He rebounds the ball very well, and is easily one of the more polished players available in this years draft. He could probably play 3 positions if needed, and he should be a nice addition for the Sonics back court.
#5 - New Jersey Nets - Sofoklis Schortsanitis C 6'10'' 290 21 B- C- C C+ B- A
Considering their amount of depth at PF and C, Sofo is the pick here. He is very good at getting position down low, and is very comfortable handling the ball and recognizing double teams. For somebody nicknamed "Baby Shaq", he is quick for his size and is definitely what a team like New Jersey could use.
#6 - Golden State Warriors - Randy Foye PG 6'4'' 205 23 B- B- B- C+ C- B
Good size with a great first step, Foye has the ability to burn defenders and get a quick 2 points in the process. His only weakness might be his defined position. There's a chance he'll get outquicked by faster SGs in the league, and his point guard skills are somewhat underdeveloped to run an ABCA offense. Still, he has the potential to become a fine starter, and he although he'll need time to adjust to the pro game, he can become a fine starter for any team. He likely won't fall out of the top 10, and is a player who the Warriors can build their team around. Imagine if they spent some of the 2800 PPs they have on Foye? Scary.
#7- Boston Celtics - Luol Deng SF 6'8'' 220 20 B- C+ C B C+ A
Drawing comparisons to that of Grant Hill, Luol Deng is one of the youngest players in the draft, but also one of the more talented. He does seemingly everything quite well, and doesn't have many weaknesses. If there were something to fault, his outside game is considered weak for the ABCA level, but other than that, he should be able to step in right away and play for Boston.
#8 - Houston Rockets - Adam Morrison SF 6'8'' 205 21 B- B C- C D+ A
Adam Morrison is the best scorer in the draft, but his lack of defense and handling ability is what keeps him from going earlier. He is very comfortable from beyond the arc and is a decent free throw shooter. Houston is a good fit for Morrison, as it should allow him to concentrate on offense and do what he does best. Score.
#9 - Toronto Raptors - Ronnie Brewer SG 6'7'' 220 21 B- C+ C B C+ A
Ronnie Brewer is a good fit in Toronto. With Dwayne Wade and Devin Harris securing the back court, Brewer is the SF they could use. His quick hands and positioning allow him to defend most players, and is rarely out of position on the defensive end. He has good range on his shot, but prefers the mid-range game to get points on the board.
#10 - Orlando Magic - Shaun Livingston PG 6'7'' 186 21 C C- B+ B- C- A
With Steve Nash opting to test Free Agency, the Magic will look to add a future PG and Shaun Livington is their man. Although he's quite raw on the offensive end, he can handle and dish the ball very well for somebody who's 6'7". He is definitely an interesting prospect, and could become a very solid PG someday for somebody who's willing to wait on him to develop.
#11 - Houston Rockets (Via WSH) - Shelden Williams PF 6'9'' 250 23 C+ D D+ B- B- A
J.R. Smith or Sebastien Telfair could go here as well, but I think the Rockets will take Shelden Williams here. He is in the mold of an Antonio Davis type, and could probably play backup PF and C for Houston. He won't ever dominate a game with his scoring, but does play defense and grab rebounds.
#12 - Sacramento Kings - Hilton Armstrong C 6'11'' 235 22 C+ D+ D- B- B- A
A severe lack of depth will surely have the Kings considering Armstrong at 12. He definitely needs to add some muscle to his frame if he wants to bang with the big boys in the paint, and is very light by ABCA standards at just 235 pounds. Although quite raw in terms of his development, he probably won't be a immediate contributor but does have the potential to be a double-double player down the road. He was also former Big East Defensive Player of the Year.
#13 - Indiana Pacers (Via MIN) - J.R. Smith SG 6'6'' 220 21 C+ B C B- D+ B
While J.R. Smith does have a 44 inch vertical, he relies more on his outside shot to get points. His jumper is still inconsistent and needs more work, and he should be a better rebounder for somebody as athletic as he is. He is a fairly decent defender, but definitely needs to use his athleticism to get inside more often.
#14 - Indiana Pacers - Tang Zhengdong C 7'2'' 285 22 B- C C- C+ B- B
With an aging Shaq and Rasheed Wallace in the front court, Zhengdong should be a good addition. He has good range on his jumper, and can hit the open shot all night long. He's also a good rebounder and uses his size well. For somebody who's 7'2" however, he is soft on the defensive end and needs work on his shot blocking. He should be an effective backup big man in his rookie season, and could possibly become an everyday player with a decent training camp.
#15 - Memphis Grizzlies (Via CLE) - Sebastian Telfair PG 6'0'' 165 20 B- C B C+ D A
The native of Brooklyn isn't a sharpshooter by any means, but he is very good at getting inside the lane and getting a quick basket. He has very active feet and is always on the move. He can run all night, and isn't the easiest player to guard because of it.
#16 - Boston Celtics (Via DEN) - Paul Millsap PF 6'8'' 245 20 C+ D+ D+ B- B- B
Although they'd like somebody like Hilton Armstrong or a Josh Boone perhaps, Paul Millsap has comparable talents and is just 20 years old. Although he stands at just 6'8", he is an accomplished rebounder and positions himself to out rebound taller opponents. And given the lack of depth in the Boston front court, he could very well start at PF for them.
#17 - Chicago Bulls - Shannon Brown SG 6'5'' 198 21 C+ B- C B- D+ A
Eddie Jones isn't getting any younger and Cutino Mobley opted to test FA, Shannon Brown is what the Bulls need. He's one of the more balanced SGs available in terms of defensive and offensive ability, and could very well be a steal at #17 for Chicago.
#18 - Los Angeles Lakers - Josh Boone PF 6'10'' 237 22 C D+ D+ B- B- B
Although his offensive skills are limited, he does all the dirty work on the court. He has good shot blocking skills and is a shot changer. He fights hard for rebounds, and simply hustles every night. He struggles from the free throw line, and has a limited arsenal offensively. Although not a stud by any means, he will be an excellent defensive spark off the bench in the ABCA.
#19 - Houston Rockets (Via SAN) - Richard Roby SG 6'5'' 195 21 B- C B- C+ C+ A
Roby has a very solid all-around game. He moves very well without the ball, and has a decent mid-range game. Although he still needs work on his outside shooting, he is a very good rebounder for his size. He isn't the greatest defender however, and isn't a very consistent outside shooter. Still, he has the tools to become a solid, everyday player if he can continue to improve himself. He's also the half-brother of Detroit Pistons forward Kenyon Martin.
#20 - Dallas Mavericks - Trevor Ariza SF 6'8'' 200 21 C C- C B+ C+ B
The best defender in the draft finds a home in Dallas. What prevents him from going earlier? His shooting is very suspect. He struggles to hit his jumper on a regular basis, and isn't a threat outside of 15 feet. He does rebound very well, and his defensive skills are second to none. He can definitely be a solid rotation player for any team in the league.
#21 - Detroit Pistons - Chris Taft C 6'10'' 261 21 B- D+ D B- C+ C
The Pistons need help at center in the worst way, and Chris Taft is the likely pick. He needs work on his shot, and isn't as mobile as you'd like. If he wants to play center at the pro level, he absolutely needs to improve his rebounding skills, and use his size to his advantage. He definitely has some skills, the only question surrounding him is if he can improve.
#22 - Los Angeles Clippers - Rodney Carney SF 6'7'' 205 22 B- C+ C- B- C B
Very athletic with quick hands and feet, Rodney Carney is just what the Clippers could use if they can't resign Jumaine Jones. Although he occasionally forces bad shots and doesn't see the court well, he does use his athleticism to compensate for his shortcomings.
#23 - Washington Wizards (Via MIL) - Pops Mensah-Bonsu PF 6'9'' 240 22 C+ D D B- C+ B
Bonsu runs the floor very well and gives 110% every time he steps on the court. His lack of offense hurts him, and has no game with his back to the net. He struggles on his jumper outside of 5 feet, and misses some easy open shots from time to time. While his lack of an offensive game may turn some teams off, Washingston's lack of depth dictates they consider somebody like Bonsu or Kris Humphries here.
#24 - Boston Celtics (Via NYK) - Travis Outlaw SF 6'9'' 210 22 C+ C D+ B C B
Much like J.R. Smith, Travis Outlaw is blessed with excellent athleticism but doesn't use it to his advantage as much as he should. He can jump out of the gym, but rarely drives inside. he is a very poor ball handler, and simply doesn't see the passing lanes very well. He is an accomplished defender however, but his offensive skills need some definite improvement.
#25 - Miami Heat - Thabo Sefolosha SG 6'5'' 215 22 C+ C+ C B- C- A
The native of Switzerland, the Italian league product is an interesting prospect. He has decent athletic ability, along with the ability to hit the 3 pointer and open shots. The question is if he can continue to improve himself against better competition in the ABCA. He's one of those kind of players that you could label as a steal, or just as easily being a total bust.
#26 - Phoenix Suns - JJ Redick SG 6'4'' 190 22 C B C+ C- C- A
Redick is very comfortable beyond the arc and is an excellent free throw shooter. His defensive shortcomings are what hold him back in the draft. He is very poor guarding man to man, and will never be a starter in this league if he doesn't improve. He struggles to create his own shot, but should be a good offensive boost off the bench for most teams. Will he be starter material? Probably not, but he could find some decent minutes off the bench for any team looking for some scoring.
#27 - Atlanta Hawks - Jordan Farmar PG 6'2'' 180 20 C B- C+ C+ D+ A
With Deron Williams as the only true PG on their roster, Atlanta could use a backup point and Farmar could be their guy. He is a good PG in terms of setting up the play and dishing the ball, but he is also quite turnover prone and tends to force the play too much. He is a smart player, and should be a decent backup someday.
#28 - Memphis Grizzlies (Via UTA) - Kris Humphries PF 6'9'' 240 20 C+ D D+ B- C+ B
He was a good college player, but he is simply average in his abilities compared to other big men in the ABCA. He was a good rebounder in college, but can he transform that into success at the pro level remains to be seen. He's also somewhat undersized for PF, and must gain strength if he wants to play down low. Otherwise, opponents will post him up every chance they get, and get an easy basket in the process. He's only 20 years old and definitely a project, but he has the potential to become a decent PF down the road.
#29 - Utah Jazz (Via POR) - Maurice Ager SG 6'5'' 202 22 C+ B- C C+ C- B
The Jazz could use a backup SG and Ager is their man. He excels at running the floor and attacking the basket. He needs work on his defensive skills and rebounding however, and sometimes struggles finding the open man. He can score however, but can he duplicate that success on the pro level is the burning question.