2015 Draft Thread - Part 1

[Severn Hoos]

LOL

You're awesome. Where did you pull the me deciding to not have kids out of your ass from ?

As for me getting locked in the ball and chain, I had tons of ops since I was 16 bro. That wasn't an issue. Most guys are jealous I escaped. I'm the one telling them how blessed they are. Then they just role their eyes at me. Grass is always greener I guess.

Chris Rock said it best. Relationship. Or NP. NP does always put a smile on your face. That much is still true. Just have to keep it to the 3F rule. After that. They start asking where you are, who is she, etc.

So I get it. We need to manufacture some news.

We have plenty to talk about. The Booker thing is a hot topic. TA. Kev. Free Agency is just around the corner. Summer camp after that. The MIA opt outs. Melo.

I read this and I'm amazed you have time to post as often as you do between clubhhopping and reading up on the latest advances in dental technology. Gotta stay current with the industry or you'll lose clients!


Oh and to keep this on topic, I'll be hoping for one of these guys to fall into our range:

Bobby Portis
AJ Hammons
Myles Turner

I'd give Montrezl Harrell a look, and am intrigued by Shawn Long's statistical profile. (I assume CCJ will be all over him if he isn't already.)

Frank Kaminsky is definitely unorthodox in many ways, but has skills that aren't usually found in a true 7-footer. Might rather take him with a (hopefully) late 1st rounder than to draft another wing.

Not seeing much in the overseas draft-n-stash options, but a lot can change between now & next June.

But I really think we need to draft a Big. I get the whole BPA idea, but if you're in the mid 20s, the differences become pretty small, and we really need some young (and cheap!) prospects on the frontline, especially if we will have to cut everyone else loose to go after KD.

[pancakes3]

1) It's always a "time keeps on slipping into the future" moment when you have to manually change the drop-down url for the draft-express mock draft link from the current year to the next year.

2) I really hate the dick-measuring contest that goes along with draft threads. That goes doubly for retroactive dick citing contests where people say "I was the first to..." Who cares? So what?

3) Yeah, it's plain as day that we need to draft a C. Basically someone who's a 7 footer, has a 9 foot + reach, and 240lbs+ will do. Good hands and finishing ability a plus but not a dealbreaker. That really opens up the shopping list and makes it easy to have backup plans on backup plans on backup plans.

[Rafael122]

Ford currently has us taking Bobby Portis in next year's draft, 6'11'' forward out of Arkansas.

[Ruzious]

1) It's always a "time keeps on slipping into the future" moment when you have to manually change the drop-down url for the draft-express mock draft link from the current year to the next year.

2) I really hate the dick-measuring contest that goes along with draft threads. That goes doubly for retroactive dick citing contests where people say "I was the first to..." Who cares? So what?

3) Yeah, it's plain as day that we need to draft a C. Basically someone who's a 7 footer, has a 9 foot + reach, and 240lbs+ will do. Good hands and finishing ability a plus but not a dealbreaker. That really opens up the shopping list and makes it easy to have backup plans on backup plans on backup plans.

I would like to fly like an eagle - but not to the sea.

Speaking of letter 3, whatever happened to Hassan Whiteside? I think it was a red flag when he went to the NBA measurement combine with flip-flops on. He still measured 6'11.5 with a 9'5 standing reach, and that didn't change his 7'7 wingspan. He actually played in the D League for 36 games in 2012/2013 and dominated - averaging (per 40) 22 points (with high efficiency), 18 rebounds (oh my), and about 5.5 combined blocks and steals. I gotta imagine he didn't interview particularly well. Still just 25, I wonder if it's not too late.

[verbal8]

Speaking of letter 3, whatever happened to Hassan Whiteside? I think it was a red flag when he went to the NBA measurement combine with flip-flops on. He still measured 6'11.5 with a 9'5 standing reach, and that didn't change his 7'7 wingspan. He actually played in the D League for 36 games in 2012/2013 and dominated - averaging (per 40) 22 points (with high efficiency), 18 rebounds (oh my), and about 5.5 combined blocks and steals. I gotta imagine he didn't interview particularly well. Still just 25, I wonder if it's not too late.

Apparently he was last playing basketball professionally in Lebanon, but was released by the team there.

A couple years ago it appears he was very successful in China. I think his big issue is as an NBA player he wasn't much more than a Jim McIlvaine/Calvin Booth shot-blocking specialist. I don't think teams ever saw his production being worth any off-the-court hassles.

[Ruzious]

Speaking of letter 3, whatever happened to Hassan Whiteside? I think it was a red flag when he went to the NBA measurement combine with flip-flops on. He still measured 6'11.5 with a 9'5 standing reach, and that didn't change his 7'7 wingspan. He actually played in the D League for 36 games in 2012/2013 and dominated - averaging (per 40) 22 points (with high efficiency), 18 rebounds (oh my), and about 5.5 combined blocks and steals. I gotta imagine he didn't interview particularly well. Still just 25, I wonder if it's not too late.

Apparently he was last playing basketball professionally in Lebanon, but was released by the team there.

A couple years ago it appears he was very successful in China. I think his big issue is as an NBA player he wasn't much more than a Jim McIlvaine/Calvin Booth shot-blocking specialist. I don't think teams ever saw his production being worth any off-the-court hassles.

Talk about a red flag - getting released by any team in... Lebanon.

If he had his head on straight and worked out even a little bit with weights, he could be a whole lot more than Booth/McIlvaine.

[SUPERBALLMAN]

Ford currently has us taking Bobby Portis in next year's draft, 6'11'' forward out of Arkansas.

As far as relative strategy for next 2 drafts keeping in line with Durant plan...

This kid Portis is interesting. Haven't seen him play, but his scouting feedback is good. Assuming Durant is a 3, the key for this draft seems imperative to draft a PF. Someone who can play behind Nene, and Humphries for a year, and then take over for them when Durant arrives, filling the starting PF spot while on a rookie contract to allow Durant's signing as well as re-signing Beal. Portis looks like he could fit that need. Fact is PF is the only position with no long term answer on this roster beyond 2016.

Groom Otto as an ideal versatile 6th man, Rice as a top notch scorer off the bench, keep Blair as rebounder off bench... to go with starting lineup of Gortat, Portis, Durant, Beal, Wall.

2016 draft aim for a center to apprentice behind Gortat as eventual replacement.

But as far as this college season, focus should be on PF prospects.

[Ruzious]

Ford currently has us taking Bobby Portis in next year's draft, 6'11'' forward out of Arkansas.

As far as relative strategy for next 2 drafts keeping in line with Durant plan...

This kid Portis is interesting. Haven't seen him play, but his scouting feedback is good. Assuming Durant is a 3, the key for this draft seems imperative to draft a PF. Someone who can play behind Nene, and Humphries for a year, and then take over for them when Durant arrives, filling the starting PF spot while on a rookie contract to allow Durant's signing as well as re-signing Beal. Portis looks like he could fit that need.

Groom Otto as an ideal versatile 6th man, Rice as a top notch scorer off the bench, keep Blair as rebounder off bench... to go with starting lineup of Gortat, Portis, Durant, Beal, Wall.

2016 draft aim for a center to apprentice behind Gortat as eventual replacement.

As long as he's the next Serge Ibaka, he'll do.

I like Myles Turner - just looking at limited video and scouting reports. He's more of a stretch 5/4 and probably isn't as athletic as Portis, but he's a 7 footer who seems to have a high BBIQ and 3 point range. He's not viewed as a future star, because he doesn't jump out of the gym. Then again, neither does Okafor - so I can't explain it. I think he's going to Texas - shades of LMA? Despite the lack of apparent athletic explosiveness, he blocks shots. Listed at 240 lbs at 18, so I assume he'll develop strength. Looking forward to watching his frosh year - NBAdraft.net has him at 18.

[theboomking]

Portis looks decent, but maybe just a guy. 8'11" standing reach and 7'1.5" wingspan. Decent but not. Great numbers of blocks/steals/rebounds. Looks like he has a good feel for scoring the ball and shot over .730 from the FT line. Decent but not great athlete. He honestly looks like just a guy to me.

Regarding Myles Turner, I would think he Is a 5 in the NBA. He doesn't look like he has the foot speed to play PF. I am also curious about him and want to see him against college level competition.

I think Willie Caulie/Stein could be someone we look at at center. Very good length. Decent rebounder and shot blocker. Has the height and length we are looking for. Terrible FT shooter. I think in the range of .480 last year. We also may need to move up to get him.

[SUPERBALLMAN]

Portis looks decent, but maybe just a guy. 8'11" standing reach and 7'1.5" wingspan. Decent but not. Great numbers of blocks/steals/rebounds. Looks like he has a good feel for scoring the ball and shot over .730 from the FT line. Decent but not great athlete. He honestly looks like just a guy to me.

Regarding Myles Turner, I would think he Is a 5 in the NBA. He doesn't look like he has the foot speed to play PF. I am also curious about him and want to see him against college level competition.

I think Willie Caulie/Stein could be someone we look at at center. Very good length. Decent rebounder and shot blocker. Has the height and length we are looking for. Terrible FT shooter. I think in the range of .480 last year. We also may need to move up to get him.

Some top C/PF prospects that could be in range of our pick...

Myles Turner
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Myles-Turner-72850/

Thanks for pointing him out Ruz, this guy is intriguing to me as an eventual Nene replacement. Big man with reported shooting touch out to 3, high IQ good passer, high effort battles down low...


Kaleb Tarczewski
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Kal ... wski-6290/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQdA9SxoG0c

Looks like a potential Gortat clone.


Bobby Portis
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Bobby-Portis-7167/

Could be Blatche with a brain


Dakari Johnson
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Dak ... nson-6470/

Kentucky


AJ Hammons
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/A.J.-Hammons-7070/

Could be this year's Andre Drummond

[SUPERBALLMAN]

Funny looking at the Myles Turner scouting report...


From June 25, 2014

Weaknesses
-Lacks mobility. Struggles getting up and down with fluidity. Runs awkwardly.
-Huge feet slow him down. Has issues hedging and recovering.


From September 4, 2013

Strengths:
-Extremely athletic. Quick off his feet. Very nimble.

[Ruzious]

LOL

You're awesome. Where did you pull the me deciding to not have kids out of your ass from ?

As for me getting locked in the ball and chain, I had tons of ops since I was 16 bro. That wasn't an issue. Most guys are jealous I escaped. I'm the one telling them how blessed they are. Then they just role their eyes at me. Grass is always greener I guess.

Chris Rock said it best. Relationship. Or NP. NP does always put a smile on your face. That much is still true. Just have to keep it to the 3F rule. After that. They start asking where you are, who is she, etc.

So I get it. We need to manufacture some news.

We have plenty to talk about. The Booker thing is a hot topic. TA. Kev. Free Agency is just around the corner. Summer camp after that. The MIA opt outs. Melo.

I read this and I'm amazed you have time to post as often as you do between clubhhopping and reading up on the latest advances in dental technology. Gotta stay current with the industry or you'll lose clients!


Oh and to keep this on topic, I'll be hoping for one of these guys to fall into our range:

Bobby Portis
AJ Hammons
Myles Turner

I'd give Montrezl Harrell a look, and am intrigued by Shawn Long's statistical profile. (I assume CCJ will be all over him if he isn't already.)

Frank Kaminsky is definitely unorthodox in many ways, but has skills that aren't usually found in a true 7-footer. Might rather take him with a (hopefully) late 1st rounder than to draft another wing.

Not seeing much in the overseas draft-n-stash options, but a lot can change between now & next June.

But I really think we need to draft a Big. I get the whole BPA idea, but if you're in the mid 20s, the differences become pretty small, and we really need some young (and cheap!) prospects on the frontline, especially if we will have to cut everyone else loose to go after KD.

A lot of interesting prospects there. Harrell is a player with some great qualities and some terrible qualities. He's a legitimately great athlete who plays with intensity and is improving. But he's a 6'7 PF who makes less than half his foul shots. On the right team, he could be a poor-man's Matrix. On the wrong team, he could find himself on the bench on getting in poor matchups.

Kaminsky reminds me of Ryan Kelly. People are going to overlook him because he's not a great looking athlete, and he doesn't rebound well, but he'll get a role in the NBA. But he's going to have show something on defense. And I'm not sure he'd be a great fit to attract a Durrant - we need defense.

Hammons is ginormous and blocks shots, but he has that Bynum look of not being interested. If he gets a passion for the game, he'll make it, but I have a major distrust of low BBIQ players who aren't into the game.

And Supe mentioned Dakari Johnson. He's raw, but he's got great hands and offensive ability. He's a guy to keep an eye on. I'm not a fan of his teammate, Cauley-Stein - who I already have a creepy feeling that we'll end up with. Hopefully, C-S goes in the lottery.

Turner's the guy I really want at this point - but it's way too early - gotta see if he really could be the next LMA.

[pancakes3]

re: Kaminsky - Much better low post guy than Kelly though, especially offensively right? I agree that he's not much of a defender and is not a Gortat replacement.

re: Hammons - There's a difference between passively disinterested and actively disruptive. Bynum is a very unique bust that shouldn't be thrown around lightly. Also the Drummond caveat comes into play as a 6'11 260lb+ guy.

Dakari Johnson is a good bet and hopefully Cal will push Cauley-Stein into the lotto for recruitment boasting rights and we get to pick up Johnson on the Daniel Orton discount.

Turner is probably the leader in the clubhouse because nobody's seen him play so as to make comments on his motor, hands, defense, etc. Benefit of a doubt for the unknown and all that.

[Ruzious]

re: Kaminsky - Much better low post guy than Kelly though, especially offensively right? I agree that he's not much of a defender and is not a Gortat replacement.

re: Hammons - There's a difference between passively disinterested and actively disruptive. Bynum is a very unique bust that shouldn't be thrown around lightly. Also the Drummond caveat comes into play as a 6'11 260lb+ guy.

Dakari Johnson is a good bet and hopefully Cal will push Cauley-Stein into the lotto for recruitment boasting rights and we get to pick up Johnson on the Daniel Orton discount.

Turner is probably the leader in the clubhouse because nobody's seen him play so as to make comments on his motor, hands, defense, etc. Benefit of a doubt for the unknown and all that.

Drummond is a caveat for Hammons? A lot of people (I'm not one) consider Drummond one of the top few properties in the NBA, while Hammons might not even get picked in the 1st round. If Hammons is close to Drummond, that makes him someone you should want to get.

[pancakes3]

I'm not equating the two as much as analogizing. Drummond's athleticism blows just about every other 7 footer out of the water i.e. his between-the-legs-dunks. However he went from a top 5 pick to a top 10 pick after questions of his motor and ft% came up. I think that Hammons might be lazy and disinterested but he's got a long ways to fall before he hits Andrew Bynum territory. Bynum wasn't just lazy, he was openly contentious. Sprewellian, almost.

The scouting report is pretty damning though. I haven't seen enough of him to make a judgment but from all accounts, he's pretty much a folding chair in help defense off pnr's.

[Ruzious]

If the Wiz draft a big on the 1st round, there's a reasonable chance he'll be from Kentucky. They've got 5 - yes 5... legit 1st round talent bigs on their roster. First is Karl Towns (7' 248) who I think should be ranked ahead of Okafor. Willie Cauley-Stein (7'1 244) is rated a lotto pick by most. Dakari Johnson (6'11 263) has great hands and could develop into a quality scoring big. Marcus Lee (6'10 199 but with the frame to add 30 lbs easily) showed a lot at the end of last season and is a big talent. And of course Alex Poythress (6'8 239) just needs to get more self-confidence and gradually improve his skills to be a solid first rounder.
Edit - I left out 6'10 250 frosh Trey Lyles - who's compared to Carlos Boozer. Not sure how he's going to get any playing time.

[Dat2U]

Funny looking at the Myles Turner scouting report...


From June 25, 2014

Weaknesses
-Lacks mobility. Struggles getting up and down with fluidity. Runs awkwardly.
-Huge feet slow him down. Has issues hedging and recovering.


From September 4, 2013

Strengths:
-Extremely athletic. Quick off his feet. Very nimble.

Which is why scouting reports have become mostly worthless in my eyes. Because it's all in the eye of the beholder (the scout writing the report). I don't judge players anymore without being able to at least watch footage of them playing.

[Ruzious]

Funny looking at the Myles Turner scouting report...


From June 25, 2014

Weaknesses
-Lacks mobility. Struggles getting up and down with fluidity. Runs awkwardly.
-Huge feet slow him down. Has issues hedging and recovering.


From September 4, 2013

Strengths:
-Extremely athletic. Quick off his feet. Very nimble.

Which is why scouting reports have become mostly worthless in my eyes. Because it's all in the eye of the beholder (the scout writing the report). I don't judge players anymore without being able to at least watch footage of them playing.

And especially with HS kids - scouting reports when they're 16 or 17... they often don't hold up well -and not to make excuses for the bad scouting reports, but how do you evaluate pro potential of 16 and 17 year olds playing against high school competition? Unless the kid is Lebron James, you can't. They don't just get bigger, they get in better shape - so those athletic issues sometimes go away. That might be the case with Turner.

[pancakes3]

If the Wiz draft a big on the 1st round, there's a reasonable chance he'll be from Kentucky. They've got 5 - yes 5... legit 1st round talent bigs on their roster. First is Karl Towns (7' 248) who I think should be ranked ahead of Okafor. Willie Cauley-Stein (7'1 244) is rated a lotto pick by most. Dakari Johnson (6'11 263) has great hands and could develop into a quality scoring big. Marcus Lee (6'10 199 but with the frame to add 30 lbs easily) showed a lot at the end of last season and is a big talent. And of course Alex Poythress (6'8 239) just needs to get more self-confidence and gradually improve his skills to be a solid first rounder.
Edit - I left out 6'10 250 frosh Trey Lyles - who's compared to Carlos Boozer. Not sure how he's going to get any playing time.

cite:
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Marcus-Lee-7212/

THIS I had to cross-reference.

ESPN has him at 200!
http://espn.go.com/college-sports/baske ... marcus-lee

But the UK site lists him at 220...
http://www.ukathletics.com/sports/m-bas ... 62038.html

The general message of the post stands though. Jaw-dropping that UK has that kind of talent. I still really like Poythress. I think he's extremely underrated.

[Ruzious]

If the Wiz draft a big on the 1st round, there's a reasonable chance he'll be from Kentucky. They've got 5 - yes 5... legit 1st round talent bigs on their roster. First is Karl Towns (7' 248) who I think should be ranked ahead of Okafor. Willie Cauley-Stein (7'1 244) is rated a lotto pick by most. Dakari Johnson (6'11 263) has great hands and could develop into a quality scoring big. Marcus Lee (6'10 199 but with the frame to add 30 lbs easily) showed a lot at the end of last season and is a big talent. And of course Alex Poythress (6'8 239) just needs to get more self-confidence and gradually improve his skills to be a solid first rounder.
Edit - I left out 6'10 250 frosh Trey Lyles - who's compared to Carlos Boozer. Not sure how he's going to get any playing time.

cite:
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Marcus-Lee-7212/

THIS I had to cross-reference.

ESPN has him at 200!
http://espn.go.com/college-sports/baske ... marcus-lee

But the UK site lists him at 220...
http://www.ukathletics.com/sports/m-bas ... 62038.html

The general message of the post stands though. Jaw-dropping that UK has that kind of talent. I still really like Poythress. I think he's extremely underrated.

Yeah, I think draftexpress (which I was using) uses either their weights coming into college or their last attested weight - such as the weight from a particular camp they went to - so it's not their current weight. I'd guess the 220 is closer to what Lee currently weighs.

Poythress is definitely gifted and seems like a good kid. The biggest difference between him and Terrance Jones is confidence. He's got the athleticism, length, strength, and raw skills you want at PF.