2025 NBA DRAFT PROSPECTS

[RoteSchroder]

Y'all are crazy. Don't look at the box score, ignore the names on the back of the jersey, and just watch guys play.

Scoot Henderson, Cam Whitmore, Anthony Black, Jarace Walker, Jett Howard, Kobe Bufkin, Keyonte George. Every year this board pumps uncreative selections, players flop and everyone is surprised. Time and time again Rap's FO freaks everyone out with a surprise selection and it turns out they're right. I don't get the fixation on mock draft adherence.

Haven't looked too closely and I do like what I've seen from CMB, but the problem is if you yourself have been able to find diamonds in the rough or if your own accuracy is on the Scoot/Cam/Black/etc. level.

To me it seems like there are a ton of interesting prospects all the way to the early 2nd round. I would personally skip on a few players and have other teams draft them at their respective mock positions (Essengue, Ace, Demin, etc.), but there are a lot of players I wouldn't mind taking.

Does CMB particularly stand out against his competition? especially where we're gonna draft as a ~top 7 player?

I haven't looked into Karaban yet, but 2.9 3PM at 42% and 1.8 BLKs per game is definitely noteworthy. Considering the bottom end of the 1st round are made up of contenders, I feel like he wouldn't make it to the 2nd round.

Well that's the thing. Ever since I've been able to watch scouting tape rather than just highlights I think I've had a pretty strong eye for talent.

In 2021 I was high on Franz Wagner @ 4.

2022 I liked Sochan and Dyson Daniels. I was quite low on Jabari Smith. I also quite liked Tari Eason too.

In 2023, aside from Wemby, I was high on the Thompson Twins, Cason Wallace, Gradey Dick, Jaime Jaquez, Omax Prosper, and Ben Sheppard.

2024, the only standout as I recall was Jared McCain.

I'm almost exclusively identifying high impact play/compete level on both ends.

I'm not perfect. But I feel quite confident in Murray-Boyles and Karaban. I'd bet money on them being winning players.

Based on a quick search, I think you also liked Oso and Buzelis. McCain was on my target list, but Oso and Buzelis were both on my do not draft list. Buzelis because I thought there were better prospects in the top 10 (Edey, Clingan, Castle were my favorites) and Buzelis didn't have any stand out features aside from length/height. Oso was too small for a starting C and I didn't think he had shooting potential, which is a problem if he plays the 4 where you ideally want your PF to be able to shoot, whereas I thought Mogbo had potential for shooting and could potentially play SF/PF.

viewtopic.php?t=2389717&start=160

I feel like Oso was in the same boat as Mogbo, but weaker with worse finishing ability and worse athleticism. Pre-draft I projected Mogbo to potentially be a SF/PF, whereas Oso seemed to be strictly a PF. I don’t think u want either as C. I also felt like Mogbo had better shooting potential.

The worry for me with Mogbo is his college competition level and he’s slightly lacking in 1 on 1 defense of perimeter players. His scoring game needs work too, but we could use him as a Batum type of offensive role player if his shot develops.

viewtopic.php?t=2369618&start=400

that Mogbo guy looks a lot more enticing than Oso, no?

Look like he plays the game at a faster pace, he’s more athletic, projects as a better defender + hustler, better advanced stats (though much weaker SOS), may have some shooting potential

They have some similarities in that they’re older undersized bigs with passing ability and no shooting. If we were to choose one, Mogbo looks his he has higher upside

^^Interestingly, there's also some pro-CMB content on that page.

I'm a fan of explosive players with good footspeed, which CMB fits the bill. He has enough speed to play SF imo and his defense is versatile enough to guard multiple positions. The main concern is shooting. It could be a problem if he takes the developmental path of Scottie/RJ, but if we take a look at Orlando, defense goes a long way. I personally wouldn't mind if Masai reached for CMB. Not the same, but he reminds me a bit of Julius Randle with defense.

[RoteSchroder]

Then Harper or Tre should likely be your guy(s)...

Although I gotta say Jasp has kind of a mini Lukaish thing about his game. He could sneaky end up the best player* although obviously have to give Dylan the slight edge right now. Harper to me looks like a Jumbo Brunson and Tre is something like a longer Booker. I love both the guys but I just think it will be VERY difficult to find a trade of Quickley that will fill the hole (pause) the lineup has at the forward position because it would probably need to be another "OG like" SF and IQ is not gonna be that level of value on his own especially if we're having to balance out minutes between him and Harper until he was traded. With Tre, it's just awkward because someone will be forced to play out of position (period) because none of him Gradey, JaKobe...over even RJ or Ochai are forwards, they're SGs so it becomes a bit of a diminishing return.

I again would just trust the developmental staff to close the gap skillwise over time and therefore be more valuable overall. But really I'll have ZERO complaints if we end up with ANY of those guys.

I'd be happy with any of Kasp, Tre, Harper, Cooper...but they all have flaws that worry me

Cooper - shooting and footspeed/explosiveness is not ideal (see Scottie)
Kasp - every time he goes for a lay-up, he only gets 2 inches off the ground for some reason, other than that, I do like his skill set
Harper - defensive metrics and the low release on his shot
Tre - very jumper reliant (I mean a rich man's Cam Thomas would be amazing)

My only “issue” with Harper is a) how difficult it would be to trade IQ for anywhere near “equivalent value” at the much needed forward position and b) projecting the landscape of the East over the next 4-5+ years the best teams in the Conference all have tremendous length for our then super guard heavy squad that won’t be able to contain any of the better teams and with so much talent at the same position(s) it’s starts to become a diminishing return….but I do obv get why everyone likes him as a prospect.

In terms of IQ, I suggested a Goga + two 1sts for IQ in the trade thread. Orlando has 3 centers and is in desperate need of elite shooting. That trade got ridiculed by three ppl who thought IQ was worth more, but they don't seem to have been paying attention to other teams outside of the Raps. Goga is a high IQ, elite defensive C, 25 years old and on a 8 M/year contract. The dude is probably a top 5 defensive center in the league, definitely ahead of Poeltl. He also has potential to develop his shot. I doubt Orlando even does that trade.

[Spates]

Haven't looked too closely and I do like what I've seen from CMB, but the problem is if you yourself have been able to find diamonds in the rough or if your own accuracy is on the Scoot/Cam/Black/etc. level.

To me it seems like there are a ton of interesting prospects all the way to the early 2nd round. I would personally skip on a few players and have other teams draft them at their respective mock positions (Essengue, Ace, Demin, etc.), but there are a lot of players I wouldn't mind taking.

Does CMB particularly stand out against his competition? especially where we're gonna draft as a ~top 7 player?

I haven't looked into Karaban yet, but 2.9 3PM at 42% and 1.8 BLKs per game is definitely noteworthy. Considering the bottom end of the 1st round are made up of contenders, I feel like he wouldn't make it to the 2nd round.

Well that's the thing. Ever since I've been able to watch scouting tape rather than just highlights I think I've had a pretty strong eye for talent.

In 2021 I was high on Franz Wagner @ 4.

2022 I liked Sochan and Dyson Daniels. I was quite low on Jabari Smith. I also quite liked Tari Eason too.

In 2023, aside from Wemby, I was high on the Thompson Twins, Cason Wallace, Gradey Dick, Jaime Jaquez, Omax Prosper, and Ben Sheppard.

2024, the only standout as I recall was Jared McCain.

I'm almost exclusively identifying high impact play/compete level on both ends.

I'm not perfect. But I feel quite confident in Murray-Boyles and Karaban. I'd bet money on them being winning players.

Based on a quick search, I think you also liked Oso and Buzelis. McCain was on my target list, but Oso and Buzelis were both on my do not draft list. Buzelis because I thought there were better prospects in the top 10 (Edey, Clingan, Castle were my favorites) and Buzelis didn't have any stand out features aside from length/height. Oso was too small for a starting C and I didn't think he had shooting potential, which is a problem if he plays the 4 where you ideally want your PF to be able to shoot, whereas I thought Mogbo had potential for shooting and could potentially play SF/PF.

viewtopic.php?t=2389717&start=160

I feel like Oso was in the same boat as Mogbo, but weaker with worse finishing ability and worse athleticism. Pre-draft I projected Mogbo to potentially be a SF/PF, whereas Oso seemed to be strictly a PF. I don’t think u want either as C. I also felt like Mogbo had better shooting potential.

The worry for me with Mogbo is his college competition level and he’s slightly lacking in 1 on 1 defense of perimeter players. His scoring game needs work too, but we could use him as a Batum type of offensive role player if his shot develops.

viewtopic.php?t=2369618&start=400

that Mogbo guy looks a lot more enticing than Oso, no?

Look like he plays the game at a faster pace, he’s more athletic, projects as a better defender + hustler, better advanced stats (though much weaker SOS), may have some shooting potential

They have some similarities in that they’re older undersized bigs with passing ability and no shooting. If we were to choose one, Mogbo looks his he has higher upside

^^Interestingly, there's also some pro-CMB content on that page.

I'm a fan of explosive players with good footspeed, which CMB fits the bill. He has enough speed to play SF imo and his defense is versatile enough to guard multiple positions. The main concern is shooting. It could be a problem if he takes the developmental path of Scottie/RJ, but if we take a look at Orlando, defense goes a long way. I personally wouldn't mind if Masai reached for CMB. Not the same, but he reminds me a bit of Julius Randle with defense.

Yeah I really liked Oso too! Thanks for the reminder, will have to look into how he's doing. Tbh, I don't remember Buzelis very much, I'd have too look him up again. I'll read the rest of your post now.

[Spates]

Haven't looked too closely and I do like what I've seen from CMB, but the problem is if you yourself have been able to find diamonds in the rough or if your own accuracy is on the Scoot/Cam/Black/etc. level.

To me it seems like there are a ton of interesting prospects all the way to the early 2nd round. I would personally skip on a few players and have other teams draft them at their respective mock positions (Essengue, Ace, Demin, etc.), but there are a lot of players I wouldn't mind taking.

Does CMB particularly stand out against his competition? especially where we're gonna draft as a ~top 7 player?

I haven't looked into Karaban yet, but 2.9 3PM at 42% and 1.8 BLKs per game is definitely noteworthy. Considering the bottom end of the 1st round are made up of contenders, I feel like he wouldn't make it to the 2nd round.

Well that's the thing. Ever since I've been able to watch scouting tape rather than just highlights I think I've had a pretty strong eye for talent.

In 2021 I was high on Franz Wagner @ 4.

2022 I liked Sochan and Dyson Daniels. I was quite low on Jabari Smith. I also quite liked Tari Eason too.

In 2023, aside from Wemby, I was high on the Thompson Twins, Cason Wallace, Gradey Dick, Jaime Jaquez, Omax Prosper, and Ben Sheppard.

2024, the only standout as I recall was Jared McCain.

I'm almost exclusively identifying high impact play/compete level on both ends.

I'm not perfect. But I feel quite confident in Murray-Boyles and Karaban. I'd bet money on them being winning players.

Based on a quick search, I think you also liked Oso and Buzelis. McCain was on my target list, but Oso and Buzelis were both on my do not draft list. Buzelis because I thought there were better prospects in the top 10 (Edey, Clingan, Castle were my favorites) and Buzelis didn't have any stand out features aside from length/height. Oso was too small for a starting C and I didn't think he had shooting potential, which is a problem if he plays the 4 where you ideally want your PF to be able to shoot, whereas I thought Mogbo had potential for shooting and could potentially play SF/PF.

viewtopic.php?t=2389717&start=160

I feel like Oso was in the same boat as Mogbo, but weaker with worse finishing ability and worse athleticism. Pre-draft I projected Mogbo to potentially be a SF/PF, whereas Oso seemed to be strictly a PF. I don’t think u want either as C. I also felt like Mogbo had better shooting potential.

The worry for me with Mogbo is his college competition level and he’s slightly lacking in 1 on 1 defense of perimeter players. His scoring game needs work too, but we could use him as a Batum type of offensive role player if his shot develops.

viewtopic.php?t=2369618&start=400

that Mogbo guy looks a lot more enticing than Oso, no?

Look like he plays the game at a faster pace, he’s more athletic, projects as a better defender + hustler, better advanced stats (though much weaker SOS), may have some shooting potential

They have some similarities in that they’re older undersized bigs with passing ability and no shooting. If we were to choose one, Mogbo looks his he has higher upside

^^Interestingly, there's also some pro-CMB content on that page.

I'm a fan of explosive players with good footspeed, which CMB fits the bill. He has enough speed to play SF imo and his defense is versatile enough to guard multiple positions. The main concern is shooting. It could be a problem if he takes the developmental path of Scottie/RJ, but if we take a look at Orlando, defense goes a long way. I personally wouldn't mind if Masai reached for CMB. Not the same, but he reminds me a bit of Julius Randle with defense.

You were absolutely right about Mogbo. I didn't see enough of his film to feel strongly informed. I've been immensely impressed with his defense.

Oso is limited because of a combination of a lack of length and shooting. A 6'9 center with short arms. He has a great feel for the game though. His defensive impact comes from his quick twitch ability, sound positioning, and a great reads. Related to being a twitchy athlete, he's also a superb leaper. I believed his jumping ability and touch around the rim would open up a short-roll game for him as he's an astute passer. I still believe in him. I think a realistic floor is first big off the bench. But ultimately, if the Rockets can be an elite defensive team starting Sengun, I have faith in Oso's capacity to start with the right roster composition.

With CMB, I have a lot of faith in him. I think he will be a star. He's an absurdly good finisher around the rim standing at 6'7. He can finish from various angles with a velvety touch. Quick passer, and his passes appear quite accurate too. Also a strong leaper, off one and two feet, I think. Quite strong too, he's undeterred defenders when in the air. That strength also allows him to get to get rim easily when given an angle. Defensively he's a stud. Can effectively guard every position. I doubt he'll be able to handle NBA centers full-time but he can definitely play minutes as a small ball C. When I watch his film he strikes me as a guy making an impact each possession on both ends. Tenacious on the boards. Years of watching Lowry may have biased me towards such players.

I feel similar about Karaban. Smart two-way players with practical skillsets and a motor that allow them to get minutes and contribute from day one. When I watch Karaban I keep thinking he looks like a pro with decision-making well beyond his years.

[RoteSchroder]

You were absolutely right about Mogbo. I didn't see enough of his film to feel strongly informed. I've been immensely impressed with his defense.

Oso is limited because of a combination of a lack of length and shooting. A 6'9 center with short arms. He has a great feel for the game though. His defensive impact comes from his quick twitch ability, sound positioning, and a great reads. Related to being a twitchy athlete, he's also a superb leaper. I believed his jumping ability and touch around the rim would open up a short-roll game for him as he's an astute passer. I still believe in him. I think a realistic floor is first big off the bench. But ultimately, if the Rockets can be an elite defensive team starting Sengun, I have faith in Oso's capacity to start with the right roster composition.

With CMB, I have a lot of faith in him. I think he will be a star. He's an absurdly good finisher around the rim standing at 6'7. He can finish from various angles with a velvety touch. Quick passer, and his passes appear quite accurate too. Also a strong leaper, off one and two feet, I think. Quite strong too, he's undeterred defenders when in the air. That strength also allows him to get to get rim easily when given an angle. Defensively he's a stud. Can effectively guard every position. I doubt he'll be able to handle NBA centers full-time but he can definitely play minutes as a small ball C. When I watch his film he strikes me as a guy making an impact each possession on both ends. Tenacious on the boards. Years of watching Lowry may have biased me towards such players.

I feel similar about Karaban. Smart two-way players with practical skillsets and a motor that allow them to get minutes and contribute from day one. When I watch Karaban I keep thinking he looks like a pro with decision-making well beyond his years.

I wouldn't mind either of your picks, but I would try to turn CMB into an SF (like Mogbo) as I believe superior strength/size/speed at every position gives you an inherent advantage from the start..and I prefer Scottie at purely the PF position. It could take him 4-5 years to develop a respectable shot. With Karaban looking like a PF, Scottie/Mogbo/CMB/Karaban would essentially solidify our forward position for years to come.

We could even go back to a one guard, three forwards and one C line-up in spot minutes or have a small ball C when teams like OKC/Boston go small, but Scottie/Mogbo/CMB would need to work on their shooting big time. In past years, the 3 forwards starting line-ups weren't even that bad..it's just that we had zero depth and minimal guard play.

[deeps6x]

I still want one of Flagg, Demin or Bailey the most...

Look at where so many of our players started coming out of college...OG, Pascal, Fred, Norm...now Scottie, Gradey, JaKobe. Imagine what they could do with those guys?!? Not saying that I wouldn't be extremely happy with Harper or Jasp because they're way more NBA ready & I'm confident both guys will be REALLY good but that's the point. Once our developmental staff brings those guys more on par with them skillwise, those guys would arguably be just as valuable, if not more so because of course of the added rebounding and MUCH needed added defensive versatility (just to get it out of the way - Bailey prob being the least likely).

But I said it before but some of you guys need to look at the Conference and who will be our competition over the next 5+ years and every one of the best teams have LENGTH. Whether it's Brown/Tatum/Porz, Paolo/Franz/Isaac, Mobley/Allen...with whatever's left of Giannis & Embiid. We can't just keep overloading on guards.

I think Harper & Jasp are closer to their ceilings than the forward prospects are but if (or when) they catch up, they would be better overall players and positionally EXACTLY what we need -- then get a back up C with potential to space the floor in the 2nd ie/ Tomislav (favorite), Big Z or Wolf and I think we'd pretty much have the foundation ready to truly compete and the IND pick next year could end up being a serious cherry on top.

College BPM's

Flagg 11.2
Demin 10.1
Bailey 0.3
Harper 9.8
Kasparas 10.2

OG 8 / 8.9
Pascal 5.5 / 8.2
Fred 3.8 / 9.8 / 11.9 / 10.2
Norm 1.5 / 1.5 / 6.5 / 6.2
Scottie 7.9
Gradey 7.7
JaKobe 5.8

Going for unproven college players is like playing the lotto. Sure, you may have a 0.1% chance of lucking out (e.g. if you drafted Norm as a freshman/sophomore), but it's probably a better idea to play the odds.

For older college players who start off poorly, then improve, you now have a certainty that they can and have improved. Whereas if you go in blind on a struggling freshman, you're essentially gambling. Ace has a decent foundation of shooting and length/height, but I would think it's a good idea not to gamble with a top 6 pick. If he improves drastically in-season, that's a different story.

A little more BPM context

Reed Sheppard 11.4 BPM
Donovan Clingan 15.0 BPM
Zach Edey 16.8 BPM
Devin Carter 12.3 BPM
Dalton Knecht 11.3 BPM Rookie of the year?

JaKobe Walter 5.8 BPM
Jo MoGbo 11.1 BPM
Filipowski 11.1 BPM
Jalen Wells 7.3 BPM Rookie of the year? Drafted 39th
Yves Missi 7.8 BPM
Jared McCain 8.5 BPM Rookie of the year? Probably.

[Spates]

You were absolutely right about Mogbo. I didn't see enough of his film to feel strongly informed. I've been immensely impressed with his defense.

Oso is limited because of a combination of a lack of length and shooting. A 6'9 center with short arms. He has a great feel for the game though. His defensive impact comes from his quick twitch ability, sound positioning, and a great reads. Related to being a twitchy athlete, he's also a superb leaper. I believed his jumping ability and touch around the rim would open up a short-roll game for him as he's an astute passer. I still believe in him. I think a realistic floor is first big off the bench. But ultimately, if the Rockets can be an elite defensive team starting Sengun, I have faith in Oso's capacity to start with the right roster composition.

With CMB, I have a lot of faith in him. I think he will be a star. He's an absurdly good finisher around the rim standing at 6'7. He can finish from various angles with a velvety touch. Quick passer, and his passes appear quite accurate too. Also a strong leaper, off one and two feet, I think. Quite strong too, he's undeterred defenders when in the air. That strength also allows him to get to get rim easily when given an angle. Defensively he's a stud. Can effectively guard every position. I doubt he'll be able to handle NBA centers full-time but he can definitely play minutes as a small ball C. When I watch his film he strikes me as a guy making an impact each possession on both ends. Tenacious on the boards. Years of watching Lowry may have biased me towards such players.

I feel similar about Karaban. Smart two-way players with practical skillsets and a motor that allow them to get minutes and contribute from day one. When I watch Karaban I keep thinking he looks like a pro with decision-making well beyond his years.

I wouldn't mind either of your picks, but I would try to turn CMB into an SF (like Mogbo) as I believe superior strength/size/speed at every position gives you an inherent advantage from the start..and I prefer Scottie at purely the PF position. It could take him 4-5 years to develop a respectable shot. With Karaban looking like a PF, Scottie/Mogbo/CMB/Karaban would essentially solidify our forward position for years to come.

We could even go back to a one guard, three forwards and one C line-up in spot minutes or have a small ball C when teams like OKC/Boston go small, but Scottie/Mogbo/CMB would need to work on their shooting big time. In past years, the 3 forwards starting line-ups weren't even that bad..it's just that we had zero depth and minimal guard play.

I'm completely on board with CMB as a SF primarily. Forgive me, but I see Kawhi. It's his build, strength, 1 handed palmed catches, and easy absorption of contact, I guess.

I also see Scottie as a PF. I've thought Scottie could have a lethal package from the mid-range/elbow area. I feel he's most fluid in that area. And I've yet to see any developments from him as a perimeter initiator that seem.... dependable...

Scottie, Mogbo, CMB, Karaban, and Jak/starting center could certainly be your frontcourt rotation. I think Karaban can slot 2-4. Then you have IQ, RJ, Gradey, and Walter in the backcourt. I think that's a promising, young 9 man rotation. Frontcourt shooting is an issue, but another wing applying rim pressure (CMB) would relieve some pressure by forcing rotations. That's the sexy thing about CMB, he looks like he can command a second defender. As much as I like Jak I think this roster needs a center that's a lob threat. Good ole vertical spacing is needed to open more driving and passing lanes.

[PhilBlackson]

Something about how Sorber moves reminds me so much of Ed Davis lol

[BoyzNTheHood]

Something about how Sorber moves reminds me so much of Ed Davis lol

Imagine drafting Ed Davis top 5 lol

[Psubs]

Haven't looked too closely and I do like what I've seen from CMB, but the problem is if you yourself have been able to find diamonds in the rough or if your own accuracy is on the Scoot/Cam/Black/etc. level.

To me it seems like there are a ton of interesting prospects all the way to the early 2nd round. I would personally skip on a few players and have other teams draft them at their respective mock positions (Essengue, Ace, Demin, etc.), but there are a lot of players I wouldn't mind taking.

Does CMB particularly stand out against his competition? especially where we're gonna draft as a ~top 7 player?

I haven't looked into Karaban yet, but 2.9 3PM at 42% and 1.8 BLKs per game is definitely noteworthy. Considering the bottom end of the 1st round are made up of contenders, I feel like he wouldn't make it to the 2nd round.

Well that's the thing. Ever since I've been able to watch scouting tape rather than just highlights I think I've had a pretty strong eye for talent.

In 2021 I was high on Franz Wagner @ 4.

2022 I liked Sochan and Dyson Daniels. I was quite low on Jabari Smith. I also quite liked Tari Eason too.

In 2023, aside from Wemby, I was high on the Thompson Twins, Cason Wallace, Gradey Dick, Jaime Jaquez, Omax Prosper, and Ben Sheppard.

2024, the only standout as I recall was Jared McCain.

I'm almost exclusively identifying high impact play/compete level on both ends.

I'm not perfect. But I feel quite confident in Murray-Boyles and Karaban. I'd bet money on them being winning players.

Based on a quick search, I think you also liked Oso and Buzelis. McCain was on my target list, but Oso and Buzelis were both on my do not draft list. Buzelis because I thought there were better prospects in the top 10 (Edey, Clingan, Castle were my favorites) and Buzelis didn't have any stand out features aside from length/height. Oso was too small for a starting C and I didn't think he had shooting potential, which is a problem if he plays the 4 where you ideally want your PF to be able to shoot, whereas I thought Mogbo had potential for shooting and could potentially play SF/PF.

viewtopic.php?t=2389717&start=160

I feel like Oso was in the same boat as Mogbo, but weaker with worse finishing ability and worse athleticism. Pre-draft I projected Mogbo to potentially be a SF/PF, whereas Oso seemed to be strictly a PF. I don’t think u want either as C. I also felt like Mogbo had better shooting potential.

The worry for me with Mogbo is his college competition level and he’s slightly lacking in 1 on 1 defense of perimeter players. His scoring game needs work too, but we could use him as a Batum type of offensive role player if his shot develops.

viewtopic.php?t=2369618&start=400

that Mogbo guy looks a lot more enticing than Oso, no?

Look like he plays the game at a faster pace, he’s more athletic, projects as a better defender + hustler, better advanced stats (though much weaker SOS), may have some shooting potential

They have some similarities in that they’re older undersized bigs with passing ability and no shooting. If we were to choose one, Mogbo looks his he has higher upside

^^Interestingly, there's also some pro-CMB content on that page.

I'm a fan of explosive players with good footspeed, which CMB fits the bill. He has enough speed to play SF imo and his defense is versatile enough to guard multiple positions. The main concern is shooting. It could be a problem if he takes the developmental path of Scottie/RJ, but if we take a look at Orlando, defense goes a long way. I personally wouldn't mind if Masai reached for CMB. Not the same, but he reminds me a bit of Julius Randle with defense.

I would trade Mogbo for Buzelis right now.

[Psubs]

I still want one of Flagg, Demin or Bailey the most...

Look at where so many of our players started coming out of college...OG, Pascal, Fred, Norm...now Scottie, Gradey, JaKobe. Imagine what they could do with those guys?!? Not saying that I wouldn't be extremely happy with Harper or Jasp because they're way more NBA ready & I'm confident both guys will be REALLY good but that's the point. Once our developmental staff brings those guys more on par with them skillwise, those guys would arguably be just as valuable, if not more so because of course of the added rebounding and MUCH needed added defensive versatility (just to get it out of the way - Bailey prob being the least likely).

But I said it before but some of you guys need to look at the Conference and who will be our competition over the next 5+ years and every one of the best teams have LENGTH. Whether it's Brown/Tatum/Porz, Paolo/Franz/Isaac, Mobley/Allen...with whatever's left of Giannis & Embiid. We can't just keep overloading on guards.

I think Harper & Jasp are closer to their ceilings than the forward prospects are but if (or when) they catch up, they would be better overall players and positionally EXACTLY what we need -- then get a back up C with potential to space the floor in the 2nd ie/ Tomislav (favorite), Big Z or Wolf and I think we'd pretty much have the foundation ready to truly compete and the IND pick next year could end up being a serious cherry on top.

College BPM's

Flagg 11.2
Demin 10.1
Bailey 0.3
Harper 9.8
Kasparas 10.2

OG 8 / 8.9
Pascal 5.5 / 8.2
Fred 3.8 / 9.8 / 11.9 / 10.2
Norm 1.5 / 1.5 / 6.5 / 6.2
Scottie 7.9
Gradey 7.7
JaKobe 5.8

Going for unproven college players is like playing the lotto. Sure, you may have a 0.1% chance of lucking out (e.g. if you drafted Norm as a freshman/sophomore), but it's probably a better idea to play the odds.

For older college players who start off poorly, then improve, you now have a certainty that they can and have improved. Whereas if you go in blind on a struggling freshman, you're essentially gambling. Ace has a decent foundation of shooting and length/height, but I would think it's a good idea not to gamble with a top 6 pick. If he improves drastically in-season, that's a different story.

A little more BPM context

Reed Sheppard 11.4 BPM
Donovan Clingan 15.0 BPM
Zach Edey 16.8 BPM
Devin Carter 12.3 BPM
Dalton Knecht 11.3 BPM Rookie of the year?

JaKobe Walter 5.8 BPM
Jo MoGbo 11.1 BPM
Filipowski 11.1 BPM
Jalen Wells 7.3 BPM Rookie of the year? Drafted 39th
Yves Missi 7.8 BPM
Jared McCain 8.5 BPM Rookie of the year? Probably.

McCain is out for the year with a torn meniscus, so no ROY.

If Zach Edey can play the rest of the season healthy then I think he will take it over Jalen Wells and Yves Missi.

Wow Memphis is the new OKC drafting players.

[Psubs]

Something about how Sorber moves reminds me so much of Ed Davis lol

Imagine drafting Ed Davis top 5 lol

He's a bit mechanical. He needs to grow 1 more inch to really be something.

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Even Queen doesn't look great and sometimes terrible.

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I would get another late 1st and take both Ivisic brothers, at least they have true C size and would just cram it down.

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[Raptorfan2012]

Getting a 1st will be hard this draft but there are a few playoff teams that have multiple 2nd round picks that may be in a position to buy. Looking at the Lakers, Mavs, Cavs, and Spurs. I still think Boucher should be able to at least fetch us a second.

[Spates]

Well that's the thing. Ever since I've been able to watch scouting tape rather than just highlights I think I've had a pretty strong eye for talent.

In 2021 I was high on Franz Wagner @ 4.

2022 I liked Sochan and Dyson Daniels. I was quite low on Jabari Smith. I also quite liked Tari Eason too.

In 2023, aside from Wemby, I was high on the Thompson Twins, Cason Wallace, Gradey Dick, Jaime Jaquez, Omax Prosper, and Ben Sheppard.

2024, the only standout as I recall was Jared McCain.

I'm almost exclusively identifying high impact play/compete level on both ends.

I'm not perfect. But I feel quite confident in Murray-Boyles and Karaban. I'd bet money on them being winning players.

Based on a quick search, I think you also liked Oso and Buzelis. McCain was on my target list, but Oso and Buzelis were both on my do not draft list. Buzelis because I thought there were better prospects in the top 10 (Edey, Clingan, Castle were my favorites) and Buzelis didn't have any stand out features aside from length/height. Oso was too small for a starting C and I didn't think he had shooting potential, which is a problem if he plays the 4 where you ideally want your PF to be able to shoot, whereas I thought Mogbo had potential for shooting and could potentially play SF/PF.

viewtopic.php?t=2389717&start=160

I feel like Oso was in the same boat as Mogbo, but weaker with worse finishing ability and worse athleticism. Pre-draft I projected Mogbo to potentially be a SF/PF, whereas Oso seemed to be strictly a PF. I don’t think u want either as C. I also felt like Mogbo had better shooting potential.

The worry for me with Mogbo is his college competition level and he’s slightly lacking in 1 on 1 defense of perimeter players. His scoring game needs work too, but we could use him as a Batum type of offensive role player if his shot develops.

viewtopic.php?t=2369618&start=400

that Mogbo guy looks a lot more enticing than Oso, no?

Look like he plays the game at a faster pace, he’s more athletic, projects as a better defender + hustler, better advanced stats (though much weaker SOS), may have some shooting potential

They have some similarities in that they’re older undersized bigs with passing ability and no shooting. If we were to choose one, Mogbo looks his he has higher upside

^^Interestingly, there's also some pro-CMB content on that page.

I'm a fan of explosive players with good footspeed, which CMB fits the bill. He has enough speed to play SF imo and his defense is versatile enough to guard multiple positions. The main concern is shooting. It could be a problem if he takes the developmental path of Scottie/RJ, but if we take a look at Orlando, defense goes a long way. I personally wouldn't mind if Masai reached for CMB. Not the same, but he reminds me a bit of Julius Randle with defense.

I would trade Mogbo for Buzelis right now.

A quick look at Buzelis and I can see why I liked him. He can certainly create great looks, it was a matter of whether he could grow to convert them. I'll often bet on the giant wing that can navigate the floor with ease.

[Psubs]

Getting a 1st will be hard this draft but there are a few playoff teams that have multiple 2nd round picks that may be in a position to buy. Looking at the Lakers, Mavs, Cavs, and Spurs. I still think Boucher should be able to at least fetch us a second.

Maybe the Clippers trade the OKC 1st pick. Another good one would be to get Minnesota to trade the Utah 2nd pick.

[BoyzNTheHood]

Hypothetically, we drop out of the top 3 on lottery night. But all of the rest of the next top 5-10 prospects are the same level player coming into the NBA. Therefore, there is no BPA so we draft for fit instead. Who do we pick?

Here are picks 4-15 on Tankathon:

4) Demin
5) Jakucionis
6) Edgecombe
7) Johnson
8) Knueppel
9) Newell
10) Maluach
11) Traore
12) CMB
13) Riley
14) Powell
15) McNeeley

I will admit, I haven’t scouted deeply enough at this point to make a strong argument for anyone, but I’d probably lean towards Tre Johnson. He seems like he has #1 option potential, which is sorely needed on our team. We desperately need a guy that can go get a bucket on anyone, and he might be it.

[Ell Curry]

Hypothetically, we drop out of the top 3 on lottery night. But all of the rest of the next top 5-10 prospects are the same level player coming into the NBA. Therefore, there is no BPA so we draft for fit instead. Who do we pick?

Here are picks 4-15 on Tankathon:

4) Demin
5) Jakucionis
6) Edgecombe
7) Johnson
8) Knueppel
9) Newell
10) Maluach
11) Traore
12) CMB
13) Riley
14) Powell
15) McNeeley

I will admit, I haven’t scouted deeply enough at this point to make a strong argument for anyone, but I’d probably lean towards Tre Johnson. He seems like he has #1 option potential, which is sorely needed on our team. We desperately need a guy that can go get a bucket on anyone, and he might be it.

There's always a BPA. It's whoever you like the most.

The flexibility will probably be from an RJ + picks + young guys (say 1 of Mogbo, Dick, Walter) We can't have RJ as one of our 3 highly paid guys and be good, unless we absolutely kill it at the draft the next couple years. And to do that you need to go BPA anyways.

[CazOnReal]

Hypothetically, we drop out of the top 3 on lottery night. But all of the rest of the next top 5-10 prospects are the same level player coming into the NBA. Therefore, there is no BPA so we draft for fit instead. Who do we pick?

Here are picks 4-15 on Tankathon:

4) Demin
5) Jakucionis
6) Edgecombe
7) Johnson
8) Knueppel
9) Newell
10) Maluach
11) Traore
12) CMB
13) Riley
14) Powell
15) McNeeley

I will admit, I haven’t scouted deeply enough at this point to make a strong argument for anyone, but I’d probably lean towards Tre Johnson. He seems like he has #1 option potential, which is sorely needed on our team. We desperately need a guy that can go get a bucket on anyone, and he might be it.

Trade down for Malauch at...seven or eight? Get a future asset and the guy you want.

[Thaddy]

As of now I see the top 10 as the following

1) Harper
2) Flagg
3) Jakucionis
4) Johnson
5) Newell
6) Maluach
7) Bailey
8) Demin
9) Edgecombe
10) Knueppel

Harper looks more transferrable to the NBA, he can score on 3 levels and he has good physical traits and athleticism. I can see him being either a PG or SG in the NBA.

Jakucionis and Johnson look great. Jakucionis looks like more of a lead guard, he has great size and craftiness which will translate to the big leagues. Johnson looks like a pure scorer but I would be interested in seeing how his game expands once we get into the tournament.

Bailey has some bad impact stats and a non-existent passing game. I have him falling steeply off where he initially was. I don't see the difference between him and a prospect like GG Jackson. Demin is also falling for me. Demin has been bad against good competition. Similar with Edgecombe, I don't believe in his offensive ability. He's a guard who can't shoot or handle the ball, what has he been working on upto this part of his career?

Newell is a player who is steadily rising and with big games in the tournament and strong workouts I can see him cracking the top 5. I see him being better than Bailey in his career. Newell's shot has been improving and I see it flourishing in the NBA. He will be a great 3/4 hybrid that can play the 5 in spot minutes. Newell ranked in the 82nd percentile in spot-up scoring with 1.115 points per possession (PPP) (only 12.7% of his possessions), the 80th percentile in shooting off the catch with 1.21 PPP, and shot 41.5% from three shooting off the catch (all of his three-point attempts were off the catch).

Knueppel looks like a roleplayer. He lacks athleticism but his shooting gives him a high floor. I would compare him to Knecht in the draft last year and I can see him falling into the mid first round and then looking like a steal. He's a player I would trade someone like Agbaji for. The primary reason for the trade would be to get a utility swingman who can hit the three and have a cheap contract for the next 4 years. It would also be a great ROI trade considering where Agbaji started from.

[Jstock12]

I still want one of Flagg, Demin or Bailey the most...

Look at where so many of our players started coming out of college...OG, Pascal, Fred, Norm...now Scottie, Gradey, JaKobe. Imagine what they could do with those guys?!? Not saying that I wouldn't be extremely happy with Harper or Jasp because they're way more NBA ready & I'm confident both guys will be REALLY good but that's the point. Once our developmental staff brings those guys more on par with them skillwise, those guys would arguably be just as valuable, if not more so because of course of the added rebounding and MUCH needed added defensive versatility (just to get it out of the way - Bailey prob being the least likely).

But I said it before but some of you guys need to look at the Conference and who will be our competition over the next 5+ years and every one of the best teams have LENGTH. Whether it's Brown/Tatum/Porz, Paolo/Franz/Isaac, Mobley/Allen...with whatever's left of Giannis & Embiid. We can't just keep overloading on guards.

I think Harper & Jasp are closer to their ceilings than the forward prospects are but if (or when) they catch up, they would be better overall players and positionally EXACTLY what we need -- then get a back up C with potential to space the floor in the 2nd ie/ Tomislav (favorite), Big Z or Wolf and I think we'd pretty much have the foundation ready to truly compete and the IND pick next year could end up being a serious cherry on top.

College BPM's

Flagg 11.2
Demin 10.1
Bailey 0.3
Harper 9.8
Kasparas 10.2

OG 8 / 8.9
Pascal 5.5 / 8.2
Fred 3.8 / 9.8 / 11.9 / 10.2
Norm 1.5 / 1.5 / 6.5 / 6.2
Scottie 7.9
Gradey 7.7
JaKobe 5.8

Going for unproven college players is like playing the lotto. Sure, you may have a 0.1% chance of lucking out (e.g. if you drafted Norm as a freshman/sophomore), but it's probably a better idea to play the odds.

For older college players who start off poorly, then improve, you now have a certainty that they can and have improved. Whereas if you go in blind on a struggling freshman, you're essentially gambling. Ace has a decent foundation of shooting and length/height, but I would think it's a good idea not to gamble with a top 6 pick. If he improves drastically in-season, that's a different story.

A little more BPM context

Reed Sheppard 11.4 BPM
Donovan Clingan 15.0 BPM
Zach Edey 16.8 BPM
Devin Carter 12.3 BPM
Dalton Knecht 11.3 BPM Rookie of the year?

JaKobe Walter 5.8 BPM
Jo MoGbo 11.1 BPM
Filipowski 11.1 BPM
Jalen Wells 7.3 BPM Rookie of the year? Drafted 39th
Yves Missi 7.8 BPM
Jared McCain 8.5 BPM Rookie of the year? Probably.

Edey was 6.8 BPM as a freshman, not sure if it's worth listing senior BPMs. Many seniors who have 10+ will never even sniff the NBA.