May 2014
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Andrew Wiggins (1995, SF, 6'8'', 200, Kansas, Fr.)
The Cavaliers, who acquired the right to pick 1st in the draft for the third time in four years, probably won't add another one to their controversial draft choices. Their 1st pick in last year's draft, Anthony Bennett, hasn't shown anything that can justify his position as a long term starter for the Cavaliers. Dion Waiters-Kyrie Irving partnership keeps on producing bad results. As the guy with the highest ceiling in the draft, Andrew Wiggins is a can't miss for the Cavaliers. The team might not have a long term center prospect, but Wiggins' upside is so high that taking the Embiid risk might become a terrible decision.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Joel Embiid (1994, C, 7'0'', 250, Kansas, Fr.)
As the team with the biggest chance to win the lottery, Bucks don't actually have all that much to complain about. Both Embiid and Wiggins are great fits and they have a chance to acquire one of them. They probably would like to combine Giannis Antetokounmpo with Andrew Wiggins to create an uber-athletic wing combo with tremendous upside, but Embiid can give them a post scorer that they don't have. As they already have two athletic, defensive bigs with lower upside in Larry Sanders and John Henson, this pick would likely mean a trade.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Jabari Parker (1995, SF, 6'8'', 235, Duke, Fr.)
As a team that blew it up this year, only certain cases over long term in Philly are Michael Carter-Williams and Nerlens Noel. The team needs a scorer to lead the team and Jabari Parker is a perfect fit. He's definitely the most NBA ready player out of the three top candidates. He can bring character and passion to the team. Much like the Bucks, Philly are in good shape regardless of what the team over them do with their pick because Embiid, Wiggins and Parker are all good fits in Philadelphia.
4. Orlando Magic - Dante Exum (1995, SG, 6'6'', 196, Australia, International)
While the Magic did miss out on the top three prospects by landing the fourth pick as the third team with the biggest chance in the lottery, they still have a shot at Dante Exum who might deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as the other big guns. By adding Exum to the mix beside Victor Oladipo, Magic can create an athletic, big, lightning quick backcourt combo. Although Exum's suited position in the NBA isn't certain, his presence would excite the Magic community for sure.
5. Utah Jazz - Julius Randle (1994, PF, 6'9'', 250, Kentucky, Fr.)
The Jazz have young prospects in all five positions (Kanter, Favors, Hayward, Burks, Burke) but the glaring problem with the season they had was the fact that Kanter and Favors seemed to have problems playing alongside each other. That led to Kanter spending most of the season coming off the bench. With his strong build, physical play, rebounding prowess and touch, Julius Randle is playing a game that is reminiscent of Zach Randolph. If he improves his mid-range jumper further, he can be a great fit next to Derrick Favors.
6. Boston Celtics - Noah Vonleh (1995, PF, 6'9'', 247, Indiana, Fr.)
Celtics cannot land a "needed" player with this draft position, so they probably will go for the best player available for them. Celtics drafted bigs with their higher picks in the latest two drafts and Indiana's athletic forward Noah Vonleh might intrigue them. Jared Sullinger, although short for one, plays like a center and bases his game on strength. With his huge wingspan, athleticism and defensive upside, Vonleh might be a perfect fit next to Sullinger. Celtics would probably prefer a SF candidate, but the best SF prospects in the draft will go in the Top 3 and not fall to 6th.
7. Los Angeles Lakers - Marcus Smart (1994, PG, 6'3'', 227, Oklahoma State, So.)
Lakers have glaring weaknesses in just about every position. Pau Gasol has gotten old and might leave the team, Steve Nash is done, Kobe Bryant is dealing with injuries. They have room for improvement in every position. Picking the best player available is probably the right move for them. With his strong build and fearless character, Marcus Smart can be a good fit next to Kobe Bryant. Even though there are concerns about his NBA position (plays like a SG), he can handle playing PG.
8. Sacramento Kings - Aaron Gordon (1995, PF, 6'9'', 220, Arizona, Fr.)
Kings' best bet in the draft is Noah Vonleh, he's pretty much the perfect player to play next to DeMarcus Cousins. If there's no Vonleh left for them at 8th, the other athletic PF of the draft might intrigue them. Although Aaron Gordon is not as defensive minded as Vonleh, he has tremendous upside. With his elite athleticism, he can play along side Cousins who asks for the ball to be in his hands, plays rather slowly and as a scorer. His potential has become underrated as the months went by in the season.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Gary Harris (1994, SG, 6'4'', 205, Michigan State, So.)
Charlotte Hornets will make their first pick under their new (old) name. The team's biggest need is a player at SG and they'd be ecstatic if Gary Harris fell to them. With his all around game, ability to hit long range jumpers and create his own shots, he'd be a part of a possibly great backcourt push with Kemba Walker. Walker is the only guard in the team that can create his own shot and they desperately need another player who can contribute to the playmaking. With this combo, Al Jefferson, an improved Cody Zeller and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bobcats might make a push for a Top 5 seed in East.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Zach LaVine (1995, SG, 6'6'', 180, UCLA, Fr.)
Zach LaVine is one of the most intriguing players in the draft. With elite athleticism, quickness and the shooting range that includes downtown, he has a chance to be really special. I expect the Sixers to target another wing player with their 10th pick and an athletic shooter go alongside Michael Carter-Williams would be a great opportunity. Only possible problem with that pairing is that both players are thin and lack in the strength department, which may cause some defensive issues. But both players have great size and are very quick.
11. Denver Nuggets - Doug McDermott (1992, SF, 6'7'', 220, Creighton, Sr.)
As a team that doesn't have a glaring weakness in any starting position, Nuggets will look to improve their bench in order to put on a better fight for a Playoff seed in the strong West. Doug McDermott, who was NCAA's top scorer for the past season, is one of the least risky picks available in the lottery. His upside might be lower than the other players in the company, but his shooting ability, high character and smart basketball surely will help him become a solid role player at worst. That's all that Nuggets need to know to acquire him with their 11th pick.
12. Orlando Magic - Kyle Anderson (1993, SF, 6'9'', 230, UCLA, So.)
If they pick Dante Exum with the 4th pick, Magic are likely to target a forward with their other pick. They're likely to play Arron Afflalo as a SF if no trade happens and use Tobias Harris as a PF. Having a versatile forward can help the team build a deeper rotation. Dario Saric might also be a target for them because of his similar all around versatile style, but Kyle Anderson is a better suited player because of his playmaking skills. Magic lack players that can run an efficient offense and Anderson is a player that is capable of providing help.
13. Minnesota Timberwolves - Dario Saric (1994, PF, 6'10'', 225, Croatia, International)
Because of the uncertainty the Kevin Love situation brings, it's almost impossible to guess the path the Wolves are going to take in the draft. The team has an European foundation with Ricky Rubio and Nikola Pekovic and the all-around, versatile game of the Croatian forward Dario Saric might fit in well fit the team. Wolves could go for a more athletic player, fearing Saric and Pekovic would struggle defensively, but they could use forward that can create plays off the bench. The unlikeliness of Saric going to US the next year should also be considered.
14. Phoenix Suns - Rodney Hood (1992, SF, 6'8'', 208, Duke, So.)
As massive overachievers in Jeff Hornacek's first year at the helm, Suns have a guard combo that is the key to their success and a long term center prospect with Alex Len. They're obviously in need for forwards. Rodney Hood is a talented scorer that can give the Suns team a push from the bench starting with his rookie season because of his ability to score in an up tempo style. They currently play P.J. Tucker as their SF and don't have a future possibility at that position.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Nik Stauskas (1993, SG, 6'6'', 207, Michigan, So.)
Coach Mike Budenholzer, who was Gregg Popovich's assistant for years, plays a system that values shooters a lot. Kyle Korver put together a great season for the Hawks and they're likely to go after a shooter with ability to create offense for himself. Nik Stauskas is the best pure shooter in the draft and has the ball handles and quickness to possibly create his own shot in the next level. Like Doug McDermott, is a low risk player who ultimately will end up as a solid role player if no further improvement is shown.
16. Chicago Bulls - Tyler Ennis (1994, PG, 6'2'', 180, Syracuse, Fr.)
With Derrick Rose's health issues as of late, Bulls will look for a long term back up plan. While D.J. Augustin did put on a very good performance this season, he's unreliable over long term. Team-oriented point guard Tyler Ennis out of Syracuse had a tremendous freshman season and shows the maturity to lead an NBA team's offense. With plans to possibly land a big name free agent this summer, cheap contracts are very valuable for the Bulls who'll look to improve their bench.
17. Boston Celtics - Jerami Grant (1994, SF, 6'8'', 214, Syracuse, So.)
Celtics don't have a long term interest in Jeff Green, so a SF pick is likely to happen. Since there aren't many SF prospects to use a 6th pick on, they're going to target one with the 17th pick. Jerami Grant is an elite athlete with massive defensive upside. There are doubts about him adjusting to NBA offense due to his tweener state on that end of the floor, but his upside might intrigue Celtics who have a chance to build up a team with great defensive upside.
18. Phoenix Suns - T.J. Warren (1993, SF, 6'8'', 220, North Carolina State, So.)
The Suns don't have depth at SF position so I wouldn't be surprised if they were to target two players at the same position. T.J. Warren is a player that can adjust to opposing defenses and find his rhythm. Despite seemingly lacking elite athleticism, strength or shooting touch, he managed to use every piece of ability to the best and led North Carolina State in his sophomore year. Can become a servicable role player to bring scoring off the bench.
19. Chicago Bulls - James Young (1995, SG, 6'6'', 215, Kentucky, Fr.)
Chicago Bulls have been looking for a player with consistent shooting to stretch the floor since Kyle Korver. While Mike Dunleavy Jr. did produce a good performance this year, a long term prospect is a good fit for them. James Young came into the season with big expectations, failed to deliver, but came up big in the NCAA Tournament. Pretty much the story of the year for the Kentucky Wildcats who managed to make the national final after a disappointing regular season. Young has the potential to be a very good off-guard in the league.
20. Toronto Raptors - Adreian Payne (1991, PF, 6'10'', 240, Michigan State, Sr.)
Adreian Payne is a 23 year old with untapped potential. He may or may not reach his full potential over long term, but his athleticism and energy is of interest to many teams. Toronto Raptors are already using an athletic energy guy at PF with Amir Johnson, Adreian Payne can be a solid backup and make a difference. Raptors are a very athletic team that plays the get up and jump game very well, fitting Payne's playing style.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder - Jusuf Nurkic (1994, C, 6'11'', 280, Bosnia & Herzegovina, International)
Thunder already have a center prospect with Steven Adams but they lack a post scoring threat. Jusuf Nurkic, with his game reminiscent of Nikola Pekovic, might be a good project. While he probably isn't going to be in the States next year, Thunder aren't going to find a player that can make the difference to get them title with picks as low as the ones they have. Nurkic is a good prospect with great value in today's NBA.
22. Memphis Grizzlies - Shabazz Napier (1991, PG, 6'0'', 175, Connecticut, Sr.)
Grizzlies are going through a rough patch with their management. They might consider blowing it up very soon, or just continue to try and improve the team. They currently don't have any players that can create his own offense and give them a scoring push off the bench. Shabazz Napier, who led the Connecticut Huskies to the national title, might be that guy. Although he's undersized, he's quick enough to fit in with the Grizzlies' system, considering they're starting Mike Conley who is undersized in his own right as their PG.
23. Utah Jazz - Elfrid Payton (1994, PG, 6'4'', 185, Louisiana-Lafayette, Jr.)
Elfrid Payton is one of my favorite players in the draft. He goes under the radar but has great size, handles and scoring prowess. Might become a big factor off the bench for a rebuilding team and turn into a key part over time. Jazz have Trey Burke at their PG but they're in the need of a backup for him. Payton might build up his draft stuck over time, though.
24. Charlotte Bobcats - Jordan Clarkson (1992, PG, 6'4'', 195, Missouri, Jr.)
As mentioned before, Hornets are a team that is in need of scorers that can create their own offense. This applies to both guard positions therefore going after another guard with the 24th pick shouldn't be a surprise. Jordan Clarkson is a reliable, quick scorer that can backup Kemba Walker nicely. He does lack in the three point department, but then again, so does Kemba Walker.
25. Houston Rockets - Cleanthony Early (1991, SF, 6'8'', 220, Wichita State, Sr.)
Rockets don't have a ton of options in forward positions and will look to the players that can contribute right away. Cheap and effective contracts are very valuable for a contending team. As shown with the Chandler Parsons selection in 2011, Rockets know how to find contributors in the lower ranks of the draft. Early had a fantastic college career at Wichita State and can contribute massively off the bench if he gets used to the NBA game quickly.
26. Miami Heat - Glenn Robinson III (1994, SF, 6'7'', 211, Michigan, So.)
The Heat will be looking for athletic wings in the upcoming draft and they should count themselves lucky if Glenn Robinson III lands on their pick. After a promising freshman year, GRIII disappointed many people in his sophomore season which hurt his draft stock. With that being said, he's still an elite athlete with great defensive potential and a smart team player who has a chance to be a solid 3&D guy in the future. Perfect fit for the Miami Heat.
27. Phoenix Suns - Clint Capela (1994, PF, 6'11'', 222, Switzerland, International)
Clint Capela burst into the scene after a series of tremendous outings in the French league. With his elite athleticism, explosiveness and defensive upside, he's intriguing to many teams that look for a project pick. His low basketball IQ is the main risky issue with him and he should be handled well by a coach to reach his full potential. As a team that is on a quick rebuild, Suns might at him as a worthy candidate with the 27th pick.
28. Los Angeles Clippers - DeAndre Daniels (1992, SF, 6'8'', 195, Connecticut, Jr.)-
Clippers filled the SF position with veterans this season, but a versatile young one wouldn't hurt to have. After a fantastic championship run, he had a boost to his draft stock. Has the size and tenacity to be a good defender while also having the ability to shoot from deep, making him a great 3&D guy candidate. Clippers are already using a player in the same build (Matt Barnes) as the SF, Daniels can be a good backup.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder - Jordan Adams (1994, SG, 6'5'', 209, UCLA, So.)
Thunder don't have a need to fill but they would like to find players that can contribute to their depth. Jordan Adams is a talented scorer that can play defense as well. Thunder's system requires 3&D players. Although they already have Thabo Sefolosha and Jeremy Lamb, another contributor off the bench would hurt them. Adams is a great fit.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Vasilje Micic (1994, PG, 6'5'', 200, Serbia, International)
Spurs have always been the team with the most interest in European prospects since the start of the Gregg Popovich era. They currently have three players that can play the PG position, but aside from Tony Parker, they don't have one that can run an efficient offense. Vasilje Micic is a great playmaker with off the charts court vision and can excel in Pop's well flowing offense.
31. Milwaukee Bucks - C.J. Wilcox (1990, SG, 6'5'', 201, Michigan, Sr.)
32. Philadelphia 76ers - Kristaps Porzingis (1995, PF, 7'0'', 215, Latvia, International)
33. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jarnell Stokes (1994, PF, 6'8'', 260, Tennessee, Jr.)
34. Dallas Mavericks - P.J. Hairston (1992, SG, 6'5'', 228, USA, D-League)
35. Utah Jazz - K.J. McDaniels (1993, SF, 6'6'', 196, Clemson, Jr.)
36. Milwaukee Bucks - Spencer Dinwiddie (1993, PG, 6'6'', 205, Colorado, Jr.)
37. Toronto Raptors - Markel Brown (1992, SG, 6'4'', 185, Oklahoma State, Sr.)
38. Detroit Pistons - Mitch McGary (1992, C, 6'10'', 266, Michigan, So.)
39. Philadelphia 76ers - James McAdoo (1993, PF, 6'9'', 230, North Carolina, Jr.)
40. Minnesota Timberwolves - C.J. Fair (1991, SF, 6'8'', 218, Syracuse, Sr.)
41. Denver Nuggets - Isaiah Austin (1993, C, 7'1'', 220, Baylor, So.)
42. Houston Rockets - Nick Johnson (1992, SG, 6'3'', 198, Arizona, Jr.)
43. Atlanta Hawks - Thanasis Antetokounmpo (1992, SG, 6'6'', 205, Greece, International)
44. Minnesota Timberwolves - Jabari Brown (1992, SG, 6'4'', 215, Missouri, Jr.)
45. Charlotte Hornets - Cory Jefferson (1990, PF, 6'9'', 230, Baylor, Sr.)
46. Washington Wizards - LaQuinton Ross (1992, SF, 6'7'', 220, Ohio State, Jr.)
47. Philadelphia 76ers - Deonte Burton (1991, PG, 6'1'', 190, Nevada, Sr.)
48. Chicago Bulls - Fuquan Edwin (1991, SG, 6'6'', 215, Seton Hall, Sr.)
49. Milwaukee Bucks - Walter Tavares (1992, C, 7'3'', 260, Spain, International)
50. Phoenix Suns - Bogdan Bogdanovic (1992, SG, 6'6'', 205, Serbia, International)
51. Dallas Mavericks - Sean Kilpatrick (1990, SG, 6'4'', 210, Cincinnati, Sr.)
52. Philadelphia 76ers - Melvin Ejim (1991, SF, 6'6'', 220, Iowa State, Sr.)
53. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeAndre Kane (1989, PG, 6'4'', 200, Iowa State, Sr.)
54. Denver Nuggets - Dwight Powell (1991, PF, 6'11'', 235, Stanford, Sr.)
55. Philadelphia 76ers - Nikola Jokic (1995, PF, 6'11'', 255, Serbia, International)
56. Indiana Pacers - Jordan McRae (1991, SG, 6'5'', 180, Tennessee, Sr.)
57. Miami Heat - Jordan Bachynski (1989, C, 7'2'', 248, Arizona State, Sr.)
58. Los Angeles Clippers - Artem Klimenko (1994, C, 7'0'', 245, Russia, International)
59. Toronto Raptors - Jahii Carson (1992, PG, 5'11'', 180, Arizona State, So.)
60. San Antonio Spurs - Johnny O'Bryant (1993, PF, 6'8'', 257, LSU, Jr.)
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