2011 NBA Draft Discussion Thread (Lottery Tonight!)

[Manhattan Project]

Oh god no. If Kyle Singler is on this team I will be dismayed.

Whats the beef with Singler in the second round?

[hobojoe2131]

Oh god no. If Kyle Singler is on this team I will be dismayed.

Whats the beef with Singler in the second round?

Don't really see his appeal at all. Awful defender, unathletic, and not a true spot up shooter. He's a good shooter for the college game, but that's with ball screens and stuff like that. I really don't see a fit at all.

[Manhattan Project]

I think with his release and mechanics he can be that spot up shooter, he wasn't terrible but not excellent either in college. He has crafty footwork and actually has an nice mid range game when he actually gets inside the arc. I just love the way he competes, I love how he was coached and the success he did have in college. For a guy coming off the bench, I do believe he can fit the role.

Edit: Now granted his defense will be average at best and he doesn't have the greatest athleticism in the world, I still think he is one of the players that can find a way to help a team win.

[NBA Fan 1234]

Guess I knew what I was talking about when I said Taylor was returning . Nice to know people with legit connections. A little after Vandy lost, Jenkins apparently was strongly considering entering the draft. Smart decision on his part to stay put...he has to add weight and add more offensive skills (ball handling and he must improve his mid-range J - although he has a nice spin move into a jumper and a step back). Festus is another player I'm pretty high on...strong, pretty athletic, and has great shot blocking instincts (as well as an underrated post game). He's only been playing for a few years, and it shows, but he has improved tremendously since his freshman year. My only problem with him is that he's not a great rebounder...the coaches are constantly on his case about his rebounding in practice specifically (but also in games, obviously).

Anyways, there's a good article on Jeremy Tyler if anyone is interested in reading it. It's only two pages and is a pretty good read. It's about how he has matured since switching leagues and how being mentored by Bob Hill has really helped him. Still not sure about his maturity level, but if he has changed (and Walsh thinks he can be maintained in NY), he's worth a STRONG look.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/21/sport ... IxLc%20Rqw

[moocow007]

Guess I knew what I was talking about when I said Taylor was returning . Nice to know people with legit connections. A little after Vandy lost, Jenkins apparently was strongly considering entering the draft. Smart decision on his part to stay put...he has to add weight and add more offensive skills (ball handling and he must improve his mid-range J - although he has a nice spin move into a jumper and a step back). Festus is another player I'm pretty high on...strong, pretty athletic, and has great shot blocking instincts (as well as an underrated post game). He's only been playing for a few years, and it shows, but he has improved tremendously since his freshman year. My only problem with him is that he's not a great rebounder...the coaches are constantly on his case about his rebounding in practice specifically (but also in games, obviously).

Anyways, there's a good article on Jeremy Tyler if anyone is interested in reading it. It's only two pages and is a pretty good read. It's about how he has matured since switching leagues and how being mentored by Bob Hill has really helped him. Still not sure about his maturity level, but if he has changed (and Walsh thinks he can be maintained in NY), he's worth a STRONG look.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/21/sport ... IxLc%20Rqw

Physically theres not much not to like about Tyler. He's got that real nice combo of size and athleticism that is hard to fine in centers. But yeah who knows. I remember when DeAndre Jordan was at Texas. I used to think, holy crap this guy is never going to be able to put it together to do anything in the NBA. His attitude and how he carried himself was just real poor. And look at Jordan now? Tyler apparently is not a dumb guy (just like Jordan isn't) so maybe he'll get it as well.

[Manhattan Project]

Physically theres not much not to like about Tyler. He's got that real nice combo of size and athleticism that is hard to fine in centers. But yeah who knows. I remember when DeAndre Jordan was at Texas. I used to think, holy crap this guy is never going to be able to put it together to do anything in the NBA. His attitude and how he carried himself was just real poor. And look at Jordan now? Tyler apparently is not a dumb guy (just like Jordan isn't) so maybe he'll get it as well.

With that line of thinking you would rather Tyler over Sidney? I mean I guess you can use Derrick Caracter as an example even though once he transferred he did put up stats but ended going in the last few picks.

[moocow007]

Physically theres not much not to like about Tyler. He's got that real nice combo of size and athleticism that is hard to fine in centers. But yeah who knows. I remember when DeAndre Jordan was at Texas. I used to think, holy crap this guy is never going to be able to put it together to do anything in the NBA. His attitude and how he carried himself was just real poor. And look at Jordan now? Tyler apparently is not a dumb guy (just like Jordan isn't) so maybe he'll get it as well.

With that line of thinking you would rather Tyler over Sidney? I mean I guess you can use Derrick Caracter as an example even though once he transferred he did put up stats but ended going in the last few picks.

Hmm...it really depends on whether I believe Sidney has a shot of making a noticeable impact at the NBA level. Not sure he does, at least not a C which is what we need. So since I don't think Sidney is a C it puts him on a lower priority than Tyler. Tyler is higher risk but I'd probably take a chance on him over Sidney since his upside is greater and he is physically a C. I think you take a shot that he may be able to evolve into another DeAndre Jordan type a couple years down the road. In the meantime, the solution to our C needs lie in free agency.

[Mecca]

I don't see us going after Tyler nor any players that will take years to blossom. We're in win-now mode. If you aren't NBA material right now, or have serious off court issues, I don't think Walsh will even consider you.

[Jmonty580]

I don't see us going after Tyler nor any players that will take years to blossom. We're in win-now mode. If you aren't NBA material right now, or have serious off court issues, I don't think Walsh will even consider you.

Agreed 100%. We dont need to draft anyone with hopes them becoming the next Kobe or D-Howard. We need guys that do certain things well. We need rebounders, we need defenders and we need guys that can put the ball in the hoop and help spread the floor for Amare and Melo. If you can get a guy who does one of those things extremely well then you take him. If he has potential to get better in other areas then thats an added bonus. Thats why I like Jordan Hamilton. I fee like he can step in today and be a good shooter in the NBA. Stick him in the corner and nobody will worry about covering him. He'll knock down a ton of open 3s and eventually help spread the floor and keep defenses honest. On top of it I think he can improve in other areas of his game over time. Guys like Justin Harper fit that same mold to me too. I want a Landry fields type, someone who can step in and make a difference today, AND they still have the ability to be better tomorrow. Thats what the Knicks should be looking for.

[Manhattan Project]

Hmm...it really depends on whether I believe Sidney has a shot of making a noticeable impact at the NBA level. Not sure he does, at least not a C which is what we need. So since I don't think Sidney is a C it puts him on a lower priority than Tyler. Tyler is higher risk but I'd probably take a chance on him over Sidney since his upside is greater and he is physically a C. I think you take a shot that he may be able to evolve into another DeAndre Jordan type a couple years down the road. In the meantime, the solution to our C needs lie in free agency.

I can agree with that. Ive honestly haven't followed or read anything about Tyler for about a year now since I pretty much wrote him off after some of the stories that were coming out from coaches and teammates. Dude was switching leagues it seems, different country every two weeks. Japan, Israel etc etc... I do remember when I read this though.

"His coach calls him lazy and out of shape. The team captain says he is soft. His teammates say he needs to learn to shut up and show up on time. He has no friends on the team. In extensive interviews with Tyler, his teammates, coaches, his father and advisers, the consensus is that he is so naïve and immature that he has no idea how naïve and immature he is. So enamored with his vast potential, Tyler has not developed the work ethic necessary to tap it."

[NBA Fan 1234]

Tyler also doesn't have any weight problems...Sidney looks like a balloon.

Even though it's unlikely that we draft either, if Walsh had to pick one, chances are he would pick Tyler.

[Manhattan Project]

I don't see us going after Tyler nor any players that will take years to blossom. We're in win-now mode. If you aren't NBA material right now, or have serious off court issues, I don't think Walsh will even consider you.

Walsh has also proven very loyal to his guys, see Williams and Bender. If Walsh does get to know you and truly believes in you he will give you a chance to prove yourself. Now granted you have to develop that rapport and genuine relationship with him first. The Knicks also need talent at the end of the day, so if we do pick up late second round picks you can roll the dice on players because that's what those picks are for.

Agreed 100%. We dont need to draft anyone with hopes them becoming the next Kobe or D-Howard. We need guys that do certain things well. We need rebounders, we need defenders and we need guys that can put the ball in the hoop and help spread the floor for Amare and Melo. If you can get a guy who does one of those things extremely well then you take him. If he has potential to get better in other areas then thats an added bonus. Thats why I like Jordan Hamilton. I fee like he can step in today and be a good shooter in the NBA. Stick him in the corner and nobody will worry about covering him. He'll knock down a ton of open 3s and eventually help spread the floor and keep defenses honest. On top of it I think he can improve in other areas of his game over time. Guys like Justin Harper fit that same mold to me too. I want a Landry fields type, someone who can step in and make a difference today, AND they still have the ability to be better tomorrow. Thats what the Knicks should be looking for.

To me these are the first two picks without a doubt. At the end of the day we need NBA ready guys that will be able to contribute from day one. Someone like Jordan Hamilton? Eh I'm not sure and I'm a big Hamilton fan I just don't see him being a fit on this team. Granted he will be a phenomenal spot up shooter, especially from the outside. I think everyone knows that Hamilton never met a shot that he didn't like, though he did improve from his freshmen year. I don't see him as much of a slasher in the NBA, but rather taking some crazy contested shots due to his body control. His defense is still putrid and I don't really see that improving.

I mean he is a "D'Antoni" guy but I rather get that big before getting someone like Hamilton with our first rounder.

I almost wish we could sign a few guys from overseas and bring them over. They tend to know how to play good team ball and usually make an immediate impact.

[Manhattan Project]

Tyler also doesn't have any weight problems...Sidney looks like a balloon.

Even though it's unlikely that we draft either, if Walsh had to pick one, chances are he would pick Tyler.

Is that a known fact? When is the last time we seen Tyler? Agree completely on Sidney, he will be lucky to even get drafted. If I had to put odds on who he would pick, Id put both at 0. I would honestly take Michael Dunigan over both of these guys.

[Jmonty580]

To me these are the first two picks without a doubt. At the end of the day we need NBA ready guys that will be able to contribute from day one. Someone like Jordan Hamilton? Eh I'm not sure and I'm a big Hamilton fan I just don't see him being a fit on this team. Granted he will be a phenomenal spot up shooter, especially from the outside. I think everyone knows that Hamilton never met a shot that he didn't like, though he did improve from his freshmen year. I don't see him as much of a slasher in the NBA, but rather taking some crazy contested shots due to his body control. His defense is still putrid and I don't really see that improving.

I mean he is a "D'Antoni" guy but I rather get that big before getting someone like Hamilton with our first rounder.

I almost wish we could sign a few guys from overseas and bring them over. They tend to know how to play good team ball and usually make an immediate impact.

See a spot up shooter is something the Knicks could really use imo. A spot up specialist that is really dependable. A small role that would help this team a ton. We need more than one too. Right now Walker and S.Williams are being used for that. I think Hamilton can be a better spot up shooter than those 2, or at least as good as S.Williams. Just my opinion. And on taking bad shots? He wont with Amare and melo out there, they will make sure he understands his place, and I'm sure he would have no problems listening to players like Melo and Amare. If Melo and Amare made him feel bad about lack luster defense, he'd step it up. I'm not worried about the extra stuff, Im just looking at what he does well. Spot up shooting helps this team imo and he has that.

[Manhattan Project]

See a spot up shooter is something the Knicks could really use imo. A spot up specialist that is really dependable. A small role that would help this team a ton. We need more than one too. Right now Walker and S.Williams are being used for that. I think Hamilton can be a better spot up shooter than those 2, or at least as good as S.Williams. Just my opinion. And on taking bad shots? He wont with Amare and melo out there, they will make sure he understands his place, and I'm sure he would have no problems listening to players like Melo and Amare. If Melo and Amare made him feel bad about lack luster defense, he'd step it up. I'm not worried about the extra stuff, Im just looking at what he does well. Spot up shooting helps this team imo and he has that.

I see it as more of a luxury, I mean Hamilton is a big time player and rightfully so will go in the top twenty and probably move up after Chicago. Hamilton has proven he is willing to be coached, can Melo, Amar'e or D'Antoni be that next guy that really molds him? I would like to think so but that's pure speculation. I mean did it work with Randolph? Not really a fair example, but best one we got this year.

I mean is taking a spot up shooter more important than getting a young big? I guess that also depends on what you think of Jordan, I personally don't see him ever making an impact if he ever comes over. That's why I think it's pressing that we get a big with our first pick and hopefully get another pick to get a spot up shooter.

I would rather try and bring in Kapono, while overrated to a degree in terms of shooting, he is still good. Give him a legit chance off the bench instead of what the 76ers did and minus the overpaying I think he fits our need much better. I also believe that D'Antoni can turn anyone into that outside shooter, I mean he has done it every year it seems since he started coaching in the NBA. House, Richardson, Walker, Williams so on and so on. I honestly believe that Walker can give us the same shooting that Hamilton can.

[Jmonty580]

See a spot up shooter is something the Knicks could really use imo. A spot up specialist that is really dependable. A small role that would help this team a ton. We need more than one too. Right now Walker and S.Williams are being used for that. I think Hamilton can be a better spot up shooter than those 2, or at least as good as S.Williams. Just my opinion. And on taking bad shots? He wont with Amare and melo out there, they will make sure he understands his place, and I'm sure he would have no problems listening to players like Melo and Amare. If Melo and Amare made him feel bad about lack luster defense, he'd step it up. I'm not worried about the extra stuff, Im just looking at what he does well. Spot up shooting helps this team imo and he has that.

I see it as more of a luxury, I mean Hamilton is a big time player and rightfully so will go in the top twenty and probably move up after Chicago. Hamilton has proven he is willing to be coached, can Melo, Amar'e or D'Antoni be that next guy that really molds him? I would like to think so but that's pure speculation. I mean did it work with Randolph? Not really a fair example, but best one we got this year.

I mean is taking a spot up shooter more important than getting a young big? I guess that also depends on what you think of Jordan, I personally don't see him ever making an impact if he ever comes over. That's why I think it's pressing that we get a big with our first pick and hopefully get another pick to get a spot up shooter.

I would rather try and bring in Kapono, while overrated to a degree in terms of shooting, he is still good. Give him a legit chance off the bench instead of what the 76ers did and minus the overpaying I think he fits our need much better. I also believe that D'Antoni can turn anyone into that outside shooter, I mean he has done it every year it seems since he started coaching in the NBA. House, Richardson, Walker, Williams so on and so on. I honestly believe that Walker can give us the same shooting that Hamilton can.

I can agree with needing a big, but I'd look at FAs first. I dont see big time impact bigs left on the board when we pick. Justin Harper i wouldnt be mad at, Faried i wouldnt be mad at although I'm not too convinced he'd give us the defensive presence we need, i think he'd crash the boards hard though. I can live with those guys too.

Hamilton I just see a way above average shooting ability in this kid that is rare in the NBA. Take an already really good shooter and put him in MDAs system and his abilities are magnafied. His Shooting abilities reminds me of a Jodie Meeks type who I also wanted us to draft. I could see Hamilton tearing the 3 point line up with Amare and Melo creating for him, and in turn him creating for them (more spacing). Walker and Williams can continue doing their thing. Williams I like, Walker not so much as a full time spot up shooter. Both could continue to help us, but I think having that extra guy to REALLY space things out helps a ton. Put Williams in one corner and Hamilton in another, and you can get a GOOD shot off from either one of them from the 3 or pass to Amare or Melo for a good shot. I'm just looking at ways to get everyone on the court better higher percentage shots, and I think Hamilton could step in right away and help with that. I could be wrong, but with some direction I see a premiere 3 point shooter in Hamilton, and I'm usually pretty on with shooters coming into the league. To get someone like him with our pick could be a gianourmous steal.

[NBA Fan 1234]

Tyler also doesn't have any weight problems...Sidney looks like a balloon.

Even though it's unlikely that we draft either, if Walsh had to pick one, chances are he would pick Tyler.

Is that a known fact? When is the last time we seen Tyler? Agree completely on Sidney, he will be lucky to even get drafted. If I had to put odds on who he would pick, Id put both at 0. I would honestly take Michael Dunigan over both of these guys.

I've never read anything about him having any weight problems...absolutely nothing at all. He's been 6'10 245-250 for a while. His main problem was that he had an attitude (and that he ended up skipping his senior year of high school...that's a bit odd).

[TrueWarrior]

Tristan Thomspon will enter the draft according to DX. He immediately becomes my top choice again. Good all around defender, strong, athletic, has alot of upside. 6'9 w/ long arms. Would be great value at our spot if hes on the board. Although I still think we'll be going with Harper. Thompson has no jumper and thats a big no no with Mike. But he would still fill a big need for us which is a post defender and finisher. Thompson rebounds, can man the paint a little bit, and block shots. He completely owned Keith Benson in the tourney and set a Texas record for blocks in a game. Would allow us to go small sometimes which you know Mike loves also. He would be great in the Jeffries role or just coming off the bench. We should def pick him.

TWs Draft Board (Projected 15th or later):

1. Tristan Thompson
2. Justin Harper
3. Markieff Morris
4. Jimmer Fredette
5. Kenneth Faried
6. Reggie Jackson
7. Chris Singleton
8. Nolan Smith

I have a question for you fellas on Jimmer Fredette... do you think he can be a PG in the NBA? I mean just look at Douglas lately. Hes def no PG but he has made decent strides ever since Chauncey has come here. Toney only averaged 3 apg in college. Jimmer seems like a smart enough guy and good enough passer to get away at PG a little bit to me, even if hes still more of a SG. Todays young NBA PGs are not true PGs in the classic sense anyway. With the rule changes the position has evolved. Steve Nash only had a 6 AST/3.5 TO ratio as a senior and over 4 TOs as a junior. Just sayin.

Watching BYU play Jimmer was usually always willing to give the ball up. His role was pretty much Derrick Rose/Allen Iverson. Shoot shoot shoot. He was the whole team. On a team with Amare and Melo youd know hed pass more and be able to knock down shots. His defense leaves something to be desired but maybe he was taking a little rest on that end in college because of the heavy offensive load he had to carry (IDK ).

Im asking would it be such a bad pick to nab him at #17? Could he eventually become a starting PG? Would he make Douglas expendable to trade? Im just trying to look at the brightside of Jimmer b/c he gets no love here.

Also what are your same thoughts on Reggie Jackson? If his name isnt good enough to pick, I think he can be a solid PG too. Hes athletic and has good size. Can shoot, play D, and has enough playmaking ability to get the job done. Whats not to like about 18.2 ppg, 50% FG / 42% 3 / 80% FT, 4.5 apg/2.4 to? Ive seen a couple BC games this year and I wonder why he isnt talked about more?

I know this has nothing to do with PG play, but damn!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCxEY-lgf2w[/youtube]

[ibraheim718]

I definitely say No to thompson... and yes to fredette being a PG in the NBA and if he is their Ny will draft him because it will be too hard too pass on him.... other than that if we buy a pick in the 2nd round and didn't draft a PG we draft his guy:

[Manhattan Project]

@JMonty
You would start Hamilton at shooting guard? I mean I like him I just don't want him unless we got something else on tap. We both agree about what he can bring to the table on offense for the most part.

@True
I do like Tristian, but I have him behind the Morris Brothers, Thompkins who I really like and the four overseas players [Jan, Donatas, Bismack and Jonas].
Regarding Jimmer it's the Hamilton situation all over for me, I don't want that with our first pick unless we got something lined up. He reminds me a lot of Eddie House, but better. I wouldn't trust him to start nor could probably stomach him and Douglas out there at the same time.
Reggie Jackson to me isn't even better than Tyrese Rice who never made it. Strikes me more as a combo guard than a real point, sort of similar to Douglas.