Absurdly early 2018 NBA Draft Thread

[atlantabbq99]

^1. I wholeheartedly support drafting Khyri and think we could grab him with the Minny pick.

2. But he isn't quite the scorer Donovan is. He seems more Avery Bradley than D Mitchell and is likely the 2nd best 3 & D option in this draft.

^ Both Khyri and Mitchell were 15ppg scores in college, with Khyri having better overall shooting percentage.

I hope you are right about Khyri's defense and i'm wrong, but their is nothing to indicate that Khyri will be as elite defensive as Bradley is. Khyri is known to be an ok to good defensive player in college, but not really a defensive stopper like Smart was when he was in college.

[Bob8]

Bob is nowhere close to Supes...I mean King Ken. There’s an actual attempt at grammar despite some failings by somenone who is clearly a non-native English speaker. Supes just lets his opinion fly, doesn’t use the word “insinuations” and has Bagley and Bamba as his favorites, not Doncic.

I’m not native English speaker and I don’t live in USA. English is something like my 5th language. I would nicely ask people, who have problems with my grammar, not you, how many languages they speak? And then, what wrong have I said about Porter? My perception is, that I tried with arguments and didn’t get much of an answer, except some personal insinuations. I didn’t mention Doncic in my last 10 or more posts in this thread and some here, not all, are rather using word Doncic, than show arguments, why Porter should go top5. Imho nobody would take Porter over Doncic at this moment, so they aren’t even in the same discussion. But Young, M.Bridges and Porter are.

[MaceCase]

Bob is nowhere close to Supes...I mean King Ken. There’s an actual attempt at grammar despite some failings by somenone who is clearly a non-native English speaker. Supes just lets his opinion fly, doesn’t use the word “insinuations” and has Bagley and Bamba as his favorites, not Doncic.

I’m not native English speaker and I don’t live in USA. English is something like my 5th language. I would nicely ask people, who have problems with my grammar, not you, how many languages they speak? And then, what wrong have I said about Porter? My perception is, that I tried with arguments and didn’t get much of an answer, except some personal insinuations. I didn’t mention Doncic in my last 10 or more posts in this thread and some here, not all, are rather using word Doncic, than show arguments, why Porter should go top5. Imho nobody would take Porter over Doncic at this moment, so they aren’t even in the same discussion. But Young, M.Bridges and Porter are.

Firstly, Yes, that was at least obvious to me. I can easily see that you have a learned competence of English even though some of its usage doesn't flow naturally for you. You were being mistaken for someone who has been using English primarily for a good majority of their life yet doesn't give an iota of a flying rat's ass about its proper usage at least not while posting on these message boards. So I'm actually giving you a lot of credit here for the care you put into your writing.

Ultimately, given your spectacular original entrance into this thread boasting Doncic and attacking both the other prospects in running for the top selections and posters it is rather suspicious to us that you made a grand return...attacking other prospects in running for the top selections. You may have not mentioned Doncic but it's like an executive for Pepsi asking consumers "what really separates Coke from generic brand colas?" It may appear to be an honest question but the subtext reads as: there's an agenda afoot.

[Bob8]

Bob is nowhere close to Supes...I mean King Ken. There’s an actual attempt at grammar despite some failings by somenone who is clearly a non-native English speaker. Supes just lets his opinion fly, doesn’t use the word “insinuations” and has Bagley and Bamba as his favorites, not Doncic.

I’m not native English speaker and I don’t live in USA. English is something like my 5th language. I would nicely ask people, who have problems with my grammar, not you, how many languages they speak? And then, what wrong have I said about Porter? My perception is, that I tried with arguments and didn’t get much of an answer, except some personal insinuations. I didn’t mention Doncic in my last 10 or more posts in this thread and some here, not all, are rather using word Doncic, than show arguments, why Porter should go top5. Imho nobody would take Porter over Doncic at this moment, so they aren’t even in the same discussion. But Young, M.Bridges and Porter are.

Firstly, Yes, that was at least obvious to me. I can easily see that you have a learned competence of English even though some of its usage doesn't flow naturally for you. You were being mistaken for someone who has been using English primarily for a good majority of their life yet doesn't give an iota of a flying rat's ass about its proper usage at least not while posting on these message boards. So I'm actually giving you a lot of credit here for the care you put into your writing.

Ultimately, given your spectacular original entrance into this thread boasting Doncic and attacking both the other prospects in running for the top selections and posters it is rather suspicious to us that you made a grand return...attacking other prospects in running for the top selections. You may have not mentioned Doncic but it's like an executive for Pepsi asking consumers "what really separates Coke from generic brand colas?" It may appear to be an honest question but the subtext reads as: there's an agenda afoot.

Let’s say that I have an agenda. Does that change anything about my arguments, how MPJ doesn’t look like top5 candidate? Arguments can be valid or not. Or do you believe, that’s enough to say, MPJ is great prospect just because scouts said that 1 year ago? Who tries to speak with arguments in this thread?
About my agenda. I’m interested in this draft because of Doncic. True. And because of that, I watched other prospects too. And have opinion on their game. But it’s untrue that my position on other prospects are different, because Doncic is in this draft. I wouldn’t rate MPJ different, if Doncic wasn’t in this draft. I just can’t see his game translates in NBA.

[MaceCase]

I’m not native English speaker and I don’t live in USA. English is something like my 5th language. I would nicely ask people, who have problems with my grammar, not you, how many languages they speak? And then, what wrong have I said about Porter? My perception is, that I tried with arguments and didn’t get much of an answer, except some personal insinuations. I didn’t mention Doncic in my last 10 or more posts in this thread and some here, not all, are rather using word Doncic, than show arguments, why Porter should go top5. Imho nobody would take Porter over Doncic at this moment, so they aren’t even in the same discussion. But Young, M.Bridges and Porter are.

Firstly, Yes, that was at least obvious to me. I can easily see that you have a learned competence of English even though some of its usage doesn't flow naturally for you. You were being mistaken for someone who has been using English primarily for a good majority of their life yet doesn't give an iota of a flying rat's ass about its proper usage at least not while posting on these message boards. So I'm actually giving you a lot of credit here for the care you put into your writing.

Ultimately, given your spectacular original entrance into this thread boasting Doncic and attacking both the other prospects in running for the top selections and posters it is rather suspicious to us that you made a grand return...attacking other prospects in running for the top selections. You may have not mentioned Doncic but it's like an executive for Pepsi asking consumers "what really separates Coke from generic brand colas?" It may appear to be an honest question but the subtext reads as: there's an agenda afoot.

Let’s say that I have an agenda. Does that change anything about my arguments, how MPJ doesn’t look like top5 candidate? Arguments can be valid or not. Or do you believe, that’s enough to say, MPJ is great prospect just because scouts said that 1 year ago? Who tries to speak with arguments in this thread?
About my agenda. I’m interested in this draft because of Doncic. True. And because of that, I watched other prospects too. And have opinion on their game. But it’s untrue that my position on other prospects are different, because Doncic is in this draft. I wouldn’t rate MPJ different, if Doncic wasn’t in this draft. I just can’t see his game translates in NBA.

That's the thing, agendas belie arguments. If you are looking at anything with an intentional bias you will find and say anything that supports said bias. Not that anyone can be completely objective but to choose to place yourself at any extreme will make it easy enough to have your points dismissed particularly when there is enough information available in addition to others' opinions to form a contrary view.

All of this is a fancy way of saying 'you like your guy and others like their guy so it is what it is.'

[Bob8]

Firstly, Yes, that was at least obvious to me. I can easily see that you have a learned competence of English even though some of its usage doesn't flow naturally for you. You were being mistaken for someone who has been using English primarily for a good majority of their life yet doesn't give an iota of a flying rat's ass about its proper usage at least not while posting on these message boards. So I'm actually giving you a lot of credit here for the care you put into your writing.

Ultimately, given your spectacular original entrance into this thread boasting Doncic and attacking both the other prospects in running for the top selections and posters it is rather suspicious to us that you made a grand return...attacking other prospects in running for the top selections. You may have not mentioned Doncic but it's like an executive for Pepsi asking consumers "what really separates Coke from generic brand colas?" It may appear to be an honest question but the subtext reads as: there's an agenda afoot.

Let’s say that I have an agenda. Does that change anything about my arguments, how MPJ doesn’t look like top5 candidate? Arguments can be valid or not. Or do you believe, that’s enough to say, MPJ is great prospect just because scouts said that 1 year ago? Who tries to speak with arguments in this thread?
About my agenda. I’m interested in this draft because of Doncic. True. And because of that, I watched other prospects too. And have opinion on their game. But it’s untrue that my position on other prospects are different, because Doncic is in this draft. I wouldn’t rate MPJ different, if Doncic wasn’t in this draft. I just can’t see his game translates in NBA.

That's the thing, agendas belie arguments. If you are looking at anything with an intentional bias you will find and say anything that supports said bias. Not that anyone can be completely objective but to choose to place yourself at any extreme will make it easy enough to have your points dismissed particularly when there is enough information available in addition to others' opinions to form a contrary view.

All of this is a fancy way of saying 'you like your guy and others like their guy so it is what it is.'

My arguments aren’t valid because you believe they’re distorted with my agenda? But if this is the case, they could be easily discarded by valid pro-Porter arguments. But somehow we are talking only about my agenda and nothing why Porter should go top5. I believe everybody in this thread has his favorite and you can made a similar case against them all being bias. I strongly believe that everything I have written in this thread is backuped with evidence/arguments/stats. And I didn’t see much arguments on the other side. But I see no point to continue with this. I guess you have won. Or maybe is better to say that non-arguments discussion has won.

[MaceCase]

Before college Porter was considered a likely top 3 pick if not #1 overall. Even after the back injury it was widely considered he’d still remain around the top 5 without playing a single game. After two games none of that has changed. This isn’t just someone in this thread making it up, this is has been widely reported elsewhere. Your whole argument is you think you know better and anyone who subscribes to any of that previous scouting ‘lost’. Oh well, see you in another couple weeks.

[Bob8]

Before college Porter was considered a likely top 3 pick if not #1 overall. Even after the back injury it was widely considered he’d still remain around the top 5 without playing a single game. After two games none of that has changed. This isn’t just someone in this thread making it up, this is has been widely reported elsewhere. Your whole argument is you think you know better and anyone who subscribes to any of that previous scouting ‘lost’. Oh well, see you in another couple weeks.

I didn’t talk about where people say he will be drafted. But if he’s worth to be top5 pick. Big difference. Are his body and game look like top5 pick? Is his handle good enough to create for himself? What position can he play in Nba? Who can he defend? Isn’t bad that he doesn’t even look for others, when he has ball in his hands? Does he loook stiff? Isn’t his body prototype for being injured all career long? That kind of things.

[Jamaaliver]

^ Both Khyri and Mitchell were 15ppg scores in college, with Khyri having better overall shooting percentage.

I hope you are right about Khyri's defense and i'm wrong, but their is nothing to indicate that Khyri will be as elite defensive as Bradley is. Khyri is known to be an ok to good defensive player in college, but not really a defensive stopper like Smart was when he was in college.

Ummm...I would disagree with this analysis. The consensus on this kid (a third year collegiate) has always been based on his defense and 3-pt shooting.

I encourage you to re-evaluate this player. He's a tremendous catch and shoot threat. But offers very little scoring off the dribble. And he's a great on-ball defender. Likely has some All-Defense consideration in his future.

Add'l NOTE: I live near Cincinnati and have seen this kid live and in-person multiple times over the years. (Xavier and Creighton are both in the Big East). This is a tough, hard nosed kid worth considering. But he's very limited with the ball in his hands.

Khyri Thomas, SG, Creighton | Jr.

Height: 6'3" | Weight: 210 | Age: 21 | Last: 27

Stats: 15.3 PPG, 41.9% 3FG, 1.7 SPG

Thomas has been solid for Creighton and emerged as one of the better on-ball defenders in college basketball, while also hitting threes at a strong clip. He’s athletic but not a creative scorer, which limits his overall upside. SI.com Mock Draft
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Creighton SG Khyri Thomas

Khyri Thomas (Creighton, SG, Junior)

Thomas has earned attention with his perimeter defense and consistent three-point shooting. He struggles to create, but teams may covet his three-and-D potential in a supporting role. Bleacher Report
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Khyri Thomas – Creighton

Creighton’s Khyri Thomas, known as one of the toughest defenders in college basketball, is also a career 39.5 percent 3-point shooter on over 270 attempts.

While the junior wing does not have a lot of creation upside, he is averaging three assists per game. Certainly overlooked at the beginning of the season, Thomas has a strong case to go in the first round. Though he could rebound the ball better, he doesn’t have a lot of weaknesses. That’s the type of player who could help a lot of teams right away and for years to come. Hoops Habit

[Jamaaliver]

I hope you are right about Khyri's defense and i'm wrong, but their is nothing to indicate that Khyri will be as elite defensive as Bradley is. Khyri is known to be an ok to good defensive player in college, but not really a defensive stopper like Smart was when he was in college.

I completely forgot!!!

Khyri Thomas was an unknown a few years ago, and now he's considered a first-round prospect as a three-and-D wing. Thomas, the Big East's Defensive Player of the Year, is usually able to take away the other team's best perimeter scorer. His length (a 6'10" wingspan at only 6'3") and defensive instincts make him really special on that end.

Bleacher Report

[Jamaaliver]

Shai's draft stock has risen greatly since the start of SEC Tournament. I could see him filling a role as starting SG and backup PG moving forward.

Is he better than Sexton?

Ummmm...They play the same position, but are very different styles of players. Sexton is an elite slashing-type scorer with no jumper and who doesn't make plays for others. Shai is more of a combo guard with an adequate jump shot and solid court vision. Both are good defenders. Shai can play off-ball more easily, but can't consistently get to the rim like Sexton.

Both should be drafted in the lottery. So it's close:

Freshman point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will look to continue building his draft profile in the NCAA tournament.

A big point guard at 6'6", Gilgeous-Alexander has impressed with his ability to defend both guard positions. He's shot the ball well from three-point range, albeit in low volume (39.6 percent from deep on just 1.6 attempts per game), but if that clip translates to more shots at the pro level, he could be a steal.

Bleacher Report

Sexton is a gifted downhill scorer who is tough to stop at the college level when he’s locked in, and despite just 28 steals in 924 minutes this season, has the ability to become an useful defender when he wants to be. There is some concern about the selfish nature of his game and whether he makes teammates better.

SI.com

[Spud2nique]

Not in love with SGA. When I watch him, I’m seeing a lot of Kyle SLO MO Anderson. I don’t love my PG to be slow and complacent. He seems to be graceful at times, but so was Marvin Williams


Outside of his size, I don’t like much else. He does put up some nice numbers though but I don’t see it translating to the NBA. Just my opinion. Not sure if folks here like him much or not.

[Jamaaliver]

Not in love with SGA. When I watch him, I’m seeing a lot of Kyle SLO MO Anderson. I don’t love my PG to be slow and complacent. He seems to be graceful at times, but so was Marvin Williams


Outside of his size, I don’t like much else. He does put up some nice numbers though but I don’t see it translating to the NBA. Just my opinion. Not sure if folks here like him much or not.

All of these are valid concerns.

I wonder what he will develop into. If that jumper improves, he could make a solid combo guard next to a more elite perimeter player (like Doncic).

[Jamaaliver]

I'm watching Michigan State struggle with Syracuse and that zone today.

JJJ is one of the most passive, non-impactful players I've seen. I've long had questions about what he can be moving forward...but his tourney play in both the Big 10 and NCAAs gives me pause about drafting him in the top five of the draft.

I officially want no part of him.


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[Jamaaliver]

Watching MSU struggle against Syracuse today -- JJJ kinda sucks, dude. I want nothing to do with him in this draft.


He is incredibly passive and too often non-impactful.

[thr3ep01nte4]

Watching MSU struggle against Syracuse today -- JJJ kinda sucks, dude. I want nothing to do with him in this draft.


He is incredibly passive and too often non-impactful.

It' not fair to say that after one bad game, but he has not been the man for his team which is similar to Marvin Williams. However, Russell Westbrook wasn't the man for his college team either. It's hard to tell whether a guy has the mentality or not. Also, he has to have the portable skill set to make teammates better, which Westbrook clearly doesn't.

[Jamaaliver]

I've reached this conclusion after watching a number of MSU games. Today JJJ couldn't even stay on the floor against guys smaller, weaker and less talented than him.

He needs years more seasoning and lots of encouragement. I can't support waiting 3-4 more years for a slightly better version of serge Ibaka.

I'd much prefer Wendell Carter and would even support Marvin Bagley over JJJ.


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[thr3ep01nte4]

I've reached this conclusion after watching a number of MSU games. Today JJJ couldn't even stay on the floor against guys smaller, weaker and less talented than him.

He needs years more seasoning and lots of encouragement. I can't support waiting 3-4 more years for a slightly better version of serge Ibaka.

I'd much prefer Wendell Carter and would even support Marvin Bagley over JJJ.

He's 18, but it's hard to grow into a leader (look at Paul George). You gotta be born with that alpha personality. So, in that case, Ayton, Doncic, Porter (who chucks a lot), or Mikal Bridges are better choices.

[MaceCase]

JJJ has value as a high end roleplayer much like Horford or Draymond. If your team already has an established scorer(s) he’d mesh well early on. If your team doesn’t or they are struggling...well you’ll get performances similar to today.

I actually like him for Phoenix, they already have a few mouthes to feed on offense with Booker, Warren, and Jackson and need someone to play off them while helping to shore them up on defense. I definitely understand being hesitant to take him #1 if the lotto shakes out the same way as the standings right now so they’d be an intriguing trade partner if a team wants to move up.

[thr3ep01nte4]

JJJ has value as a high end roleplayer much like Horford or Draymond. If your team already has an established scorer(s) he’d mesh well early on. If your team doesn’t or they are struggling...well you’ll get performances similar to today.

I actually like him for Phoenix, they already have a few mouthes to feed on offense with Booker, Warren, and Jackson and need someone to play off them while helping to shore them up on defense. I definitely understand being hesitant to take him #1 if the lotto shakes out the same way as the standings right now so they’d be an intriguing trade partner if a team wants to move up.

Agree on the eval on JJJ. However, I think Ayton is pretty much a lock for no.1 if phoenix gets that pick. Why should they trade down and take JJJ? It doesn't make too much sense, unless they can get an Aaron Gordon level young player plus a high pick. Not many lottery teams have that type of asset.