Sporting NewsWhat to expect from the 2019 NBA Draft
Considering the increasing importance put on the draft in recent years, it’s worth looking ahead to how the coming draft will shape up.
Here’s what to look for, draft-wise, in the coming months...
One NBA executive labeled this a "mediocre draft, as of now."
The Blue Devil trio: Duke has three incoming freshmen sure to take the one-and-done path, because all three are likely top-10 picks: R.J. Barrett, Zion Williamson and Cameron Reddish. All three have different styles, with Barrett more of a combo guard who can handle the ball, run the offense and find ways to score himself, Williamson an undersized power forward with tremendous athleticism and Reddish an explosive wing who creates shots with ease.
The problem? All three need the ball.
"Barrett is the best player in college this year, in terms of NBA talent," one league executive told Sporting News. 'He has great size (6-6) and point guard instincts, sort of like James Harden. So I think things will go through him, but what does that do to the other two guys?
"If Reddish does not get the ball, he tends to fade during games. Williamson needs to get it in transition. I don’t think any of the three fall out of the lottery just because of the talent level, but it might not be smooth there."
Someone among the Duke threesome could wind up the odd man out in terms of scoring. What’s uncertain is whether, and how much, that will ding their draft stock.
2019 NBA Draft Prep
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^cont.
Pick watch: Because teams have been so reluctant to cough up first-rounders in recent years, there are not many outstanding swaps in the coming draft. But two teams — the Hawks and Celtics — will be watching others with keen interest.
Atlanta will get Cleveland’s first-rounder this year, if the pick is not in the top 10. Some projections for the Cavs would seem to have them landing in that range this year, but a closer look at the East shows Cleveland has a shot a playoff spot. The bet here is that Atlanta will wind up with a pick between 11-16 from the Cavs.
The Hawks also have Dallas’ pick, top-five protected. The Mavs may not make the playoffs, but unless they luck out in the lottery, they won’t have a pick in the top 10. So Atlanta could come away with another 10-14 pick.
The returns: Last year’s class was good enough to spook some of the more interesting prospects in the draft crowd to return to school. The challenge now is to prove that there has been improvement. This year’s freshman class is not great, so the quality of the upperclassmen will determine how good this draft is.
One scout told me the most intriguing prospect is a guy who might have been a lottery pick had he come out this year: Gonzaga junior wing Rui Hachimura. He is, predictably, a physically gifted guy with long arms and a flowing athleticism that makes him excellent in transition and on the defensive end.
But he can’t shoot. He was a 19.2 percent 3-point shooter last year, and was not much better from midrange. He’s very raw, but if he can show some jumper development, he has the potential to be a top-10 pick.
There won’t be very many big men in the upcoming draft, so keep an eye on a trio of sophomore centers: Arkansas’ shot-blocking paint patroller Daniel Gafford (2.2 blocks in 22.6 minutes); all-around big man Jontay Porter of Missouri, who hopes to rise into the lottery as much as his brother, Michael, nearly fell out of it; and Maryland’s Bruno Fernando, who averaged 12.6 points and 8.3 rebounds in his final nine games to bring some momentum into his second season with the Terps.
A pair of UCLA sophomores, point guard Jaylen Hands (who must show his collegiate theatrics can translate into an NBA career) and wing Kris Wilkes (who needs to be a better 3-point shooter and boost his overall game) bear watching, too.
Sporting NewsThe international market: Even with a relatively mediocre incoming American class, the international field should not have too much of an impact on the depth of this draft. One player — the uber-athletic and long Sekou Doumbouya — should land in the lottery, but there won’t be many other international first-rounders.
Doumbouya, a 6-9 athlete who is only 17, was a sensation two summers ago at the U-18 FIBA European Championship. He firmed up his status as a lottery guy back in the Basketball Without Borders Camp during All-Star weekend in Los Angeles.
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The Biggest 2019 NBA Draft Risers and Fallers
Rising: Eric Paschall, Villanova
Paschall has been a hot name in league circles following a series of strong performances at the Nike Skills Academy in August. As the primary returning piece from Villanova’s championship rotation, the 6’8”, 255-pound forward is positioned to assume a much larger role after averaging 10.6 points per game on 7.1 attempts last season.
While Paschall lacks ideal height for a four-man, his physicality, aggressiveness and improved three-point shooting have begun to win over scouts who value intangibles, in keeping with Villanova’s track record in recent drafts. He’s a strong team defender and athletic enough to offer some versatility on that end. It’s too early to call him a lock for the first round (plus he turns 22 in November), but at this point he’s certainly in the picture.
Falling: Darius Bazley
Safe to say, there’s skepticism around the league surrounding Bazley’s recent series of career choices. There was some reason to be optimistic after he initially forewent his scholarship at Syracuse to play in the G League. News came out in August that Bazley would again pivot to train on his own going into the 2019 draft instead, and sit out a year of competitive basketball. Privately, some of the buzz about his future plans had begun to circle even before an underwhelming showing against college competition at Nike Skills. While taking a yearlong sabbatical appears to have worked out fine at this stage for Knicks second-rounder Mitchell Robinson, Bazley’s situation is much murkier.
The truth of the matter is that scouts have had a hard time getting excited about Bazley dating back to the All-Star circuit—there is simply not a lot about his game to sink your teeth into right now beyond his length and defensive effort. While Robinson had off-court issues to work out, few who had seen him play in person questioned his talent or athletic bonafides. Though it’s to be expected, Bazley is unpolished, still slender physically, and has no consistent manner of generating half-court offense at this point. Put frankly, this is a kid who needs to be playing basketball for the next nine months, and indicators suggest he should be viewed as a second-round flier at the moment.
Sports IllustratedPush: Bol Bol, Oregon
While his talent is substantial and his long-term outlook divisive, Bol took an important step this summer by simply showing up and playing at Nike Skills. His reputation for indolence at major events certainly hasn’t helped him in the eyes of NBA scouts, and participating in all three days as other players sat out offered an extended look at him. He’s added some weight and by most accounts played well at the camp.
Bol has one of the more unique games you’ll see from a viewing standpoint—his length and fluidity enable some freaky things around the rim—but how he holds up over the course of his freshman season and whether bad habits start to emerge will have a bearing on where he’s selected. He’ll be under the microscope, perhaps unfairly, but there’s a scenario where his rim protection is a consistent positive and his offensive game gets to a workable place against stronger opponents.
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Ridiculous UpsideA Closer Look At Gonzaga’s Future NBA Talent
Rui Hachimura
As a freshman, he was generally more flash than substance and virtually every part of his game needed refining. Last season, he was a more fluid athlete and scorer. I think tightening his handle and improving his jumper is going to be crucial. When he has the midrange jumper working, he’s nearly unstoppable. If teams are forced to respect his outside shot and he can attack off the bounce, his offensive upside becomes that much more tantalizing.
Maximizing his physical tools as a scorer is going to be important as well and it’s something he showed the ability to do more consistently last season.
Defensively, he was significantly better in March than he was in November, largely due to increased understanding and discipline. He has the tools; it’s about knowing where to be and not hunting for highlight-reel plays, both on and off the ball. He had a tendency to pursue steals and compromise the rest of the defense.
Apparently, Gonzaga is slated to go up against Duke and their Big-3 in the Maui Invitational this Fall. That matchup should be pretty epic with three supremely talented Blue Devil freshmen versus the experienced upperclassmen for the Bulldogs. It'll be a big test for Hachimura in particular to go up against Zion and Barrett.
Rui is a name to watch for us as he could be a worthy draft target with that Mavs pick next summer.
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247 SportsKeldon Johnson a fast-rising NBA Draft prospect
Kentucky freshman Keldon Johnson is one of the fastest rising prospects for the 2019 NBA Draft, according to Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Woo.
ESPN college basketball analyst Dan Dakich repeatedly said, during Kentucky’s exhibition tour of the Bahamas, that Johnson reminded him of former Michigan State star Miles Bridges, a lottery pick in June’s NBA Draft. From a body standpoint, it’s pretty easy to see the comparison, with Johnson supplying a smooth athleticism to his powerful 6-foot-6, 211-pound frame.
But Johnson is a more impactful defender, and while his long-range jumper has often been more inconsistent, he hit his outside shots at an impressive rate down south, making 52.5 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from beyond the three-point arc.
“Johnson’s play in the Bahamas confirmed suspicions that he should be unequivocally considered Kentucky’s top pro prospect and potential leading scorer,” Jeremy Woo wrote for Sports Ilustrated. “A strong, long wing who plays both ends of the floor with relentless effort, Johnson boasts an impressively well-rounded, mature set of strengths for an 18-year-old.”
“His effort really sets him apart, and for a player who’s been relied upon to score throughout his career, his consistent effort as an on-ball defender in spite of that workload is commendable. That comes on top of his crafty slashing skills, composed mid-range package and projectable stroke.”
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NBC SportsWhich players should we target for 2019 draft?
But here’s a look at five college players who are likely to be in the conversation at the end of the season for a spot among the top five picks:
R.J. BARRETT, 6-7, 202, Freshman, G/F, Duke
There is a lot to like about R.J. Barrett, the No. 1 high school player in the 2018 recruiting class. Barrett has an extremely versatile skill set. He is an aggressive, athletic wing who doesn’t shy away from contact which gets him to the free throw line a lot. He’s a willing passer, although Barrett’s dribbling with his non-dominant (right) hand is very much a work in progress (cue Barrett’s Godfather who might be able to help him with that part of his game). The lefty has all the tools to be an impact wing at the next level which is why Barrett is considered by many as the player to beat out for the top overall spot in the draft.
ZION WILLIAMSON, 6-6, 280, F, Duke
as you watch him play more, it’s clear that he’s more than just a freakishly gifted dunker. He has a nice mid-range game which he’ll get plenty of opportunities to knock down due to opposing teams being so afraid – and with good reason – of his play at the rim. To have such a quick first-step along with the ability to explode at the rim as a standstill dunker or taking off from a few feet away, Williamson’s impact this season at Duke will be felt. But the Cameron Crazies know not to get too comfortable with him, knowing he’s likely to be in the draft next year and wind up being taken potentially with the top overall selection. The biggest concern with Williamson is his weight and whether it’ll be a factor at the next level. Up to this point, it hasn’t been a problem. Right behind his weight, it’s unclear where he stands as a defender at the next level when he’ll most nights have to guard someone taller or quicker. He’s certainly a player that Boston would give serious thought to if they’re on the clock and he’s available. Concerns about his weight would certainly be a concern, but by no means would it prevent a needy team from taking him. He’s that talented, folks.
SEKOU DOUMBOUYA, 6-9, 230, F, France
The comparisons are all over the place when it comes to Doumbouya. He has Lamar Odom’s versatility as a ball-handler to be a point-forward at times. He can hit you with the one-dribble pull-up akin to Carmelo Anthony. And defensively, he can guard as many as four positions, similar to Paul George. The 17-year-old has been playing with grown men for most of his basketball life, finding success and with that, a heightened level of confidence that makes him an intriguing option near the top of the draft board for many teams. His perimeter shooting still needs work, as well as his finishing at the rim with his non-dominant (left) hand which is important to be able to score from point-blank range with either hand. With the potential upside to his game, it’s hard to imagine Doumbouya slipping outside of the top five in the 2019 draft. And when you consider his length and versatility as a defender, his strengths at the next level would make for a nice roster addition.
NASSIR LITTLE, 6-6, 220, G-F, North Carolina
Nassir Little will play this season. He will quickly establish himself as one of the better two-way wings in this upcoming draft. In addition to his defense, he has great length and can play well above the rim. He has shown himself capable of doing a little bit of everything which is why he’ll likely be among the first players drafted in June and a player that you can see having a relatively easy time fitting into [any coaches'] system.
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Sixers Fansided2019 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Way-too-early projections
1. R.J. Barrett -- Atlanta Hawks
G/F, Freshman, Duke
Barrett is the overwhelming favorite to go No. 1 next June. At 6-foot-7, Barrett is a ready-made slasher with a high basketball I.Q. and defensive versatility. He’d be an easy fit in the Hawks’ up-tempo system next to Trae Young and John Collins, complementing both on the offensive end.
3. Cam Reddish -- New York Knicks
G/F, Freshman, Duke
Reddish has a history of under performing, but his all-around skill set is something the Knicks can build around.
At 6-foot-9, Reddish has the court vision and passing skills of a point guard. He can also score smoothly at all three levels, something that can’t yet be said for Barrett and Williamson (although Barrett is getting there). It would be unprecedented, but Duke has a chance to thoroughly control the top on the draft.
6. Quentin Grimes -- Phoenix Suns
Guard, Freshman, Kansas
Grimes will be the best lead guard on the board, presenting an intriguing blend of size, athleticism and playmaking skills on the perimeter. He would be an ideal complement to Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton.
At 6-foot-5, Grimes is a fluid three-level scorer who will carry a sizable load in Devonte’ Graham and Malik Newman‘s absence at Kansas. He can also defend a couple positions due to his size, which is an added bonus.
9. DeAndre Hunter -- Atlanta Hawks
Forward, Sophomore, Virginia
Hunter would be a wise addition, inserting some defensive versatility into the rotation. At 6-foot-8, Hunter is capable of defending all five positions in spurts. He’s quick on the perimeter and can grind underneath, which has undeniable value in the modern NBA.
On the offensive end, Hunter should step into a featured role during his sophomore campaign. He shot 38.2 percent from deep and gave Virginia some shot creation at the power forward spot last season. His value was highlighted in the NCAA Tournament, with his injury posing serious problems for the Cavs’ in their first-round loss to UMBC.
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Re: 2019 NBA Draft Prep
Jamaaliver wrote:Sixers Fansided2019 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Way-too-early projections
1. R.J. Barrett -- Atlanta Hawks
G/F, Freshman, Duke
Barrett is the overwhelming favorite to go No. 1 next June. At 6-foot-7, Barrett is a ready-made slasher with a high basketball I.Q. and doefensive versatility. He’d be an easy fit in the Hawks’ up-tempo system next to Trae Young and John Collins, complementing both on the offensive end.
3. Cam Reddish -- New York Knicks
G/F, Freshman, Duke
Reddish has a history of under performing, but his all-around skill set is something the Knicks can build around.
At 6-foot-9, Reddish has the court vision and passing skills of a point guard. He can also score smoothly at all three levels, something that can’t yet be said for Barrett and Williamson (although Barrett is getting there). It would be unprecedented, but Duke has a chance to thoroughly control the top on the draft.
6. Quentin Grimes -- Phoenix Suns
Guard, Freshman, Kansas
Grimes will be the best lead guard on the board, presenting an intriguing blend of size, athleticism and playmaking skills on the perimeter. He would be an ideal complement to Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton.
At 6-foot-5, Grimes is a fluid three-level scorer who will carry a sizable load in Devonte’ Graham and Malik Newman‘s absence at Kansas. He can also defend a couple positions due to his size, which is an added bonus.
9. Quentin Grimes -- Atlanta Hawks
Forward, Sophomore, Kansas
Hunter would be a wise addition, inserting some defensive versatility into the rotation. At 6-foot-8, Hunter is capable of defending all five positions in spurts. He’s quick on the perimeter and can grind underneath, which has undeniable value in the modern NBA.
On the offensive end, Hunter should step into a featured role during his sophomore campaign. He shot 38.2 percent from deep and gave Virginia some shot creation at the power forward spot last season. His value was highlighted in the NCAA Tournament, with his injury posing serious problems for the Cavs’ in their first-round loss to UMBC.
They've got 2 Quentin Grimes in this draft?
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Re: 2019 NBA Draft Prep
jayu70 wrote:They've got 2 Quentin Grimes in this draft?
Good catch.
That was a lazy copy/paste job.
*The post above has been corrected.
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SI.comTop-Three Recruit Nassir Little Could Be an Instant Impact Player on the Wing for UNC
Roy Williams just about won the lottery with five-star small forward Nassir Little. The 6’7”, 205-pound Florida native is a highly touted recruit coming in at No. 3 in the RSCI rankings. Little is already a top draft prospect for 2019. Ranked initially as a four-star recruit in 2017, Little made major improvements over the last year, culminating in his MVP honors at the McDonald’s All-American Game.
He is as explosive as they come and could be an incredible impact player for Williams on the wing. He makes a habit of regularly dunking right over defenders, showcasing his stellar ability to finish in transition, but he’s also an additional threat from the three for the Tar Heels; he’s a wildly talented wing and a strong perimeter defender.
Even if Little doesn’t end up in Williams's starting lineup to begin the year, he will most certainly be coming off the bench quickly and contributing in a major way.
The Tar Heels need Little’s offensive talent, as his ability as a wing will help them make up for the scorers they lost, but his defensive prowess is what will be key if UNC wants to return as a contender in the ACC.
Bold Prediction: I predict UNC's experience overtakes Duke's pure talent as the Tar Heels will finish ahead of the Blue Devils in the ACC.
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Five prospects that could be franchise players in the 2019 NBA Draft
Cam Reddish, SF, Duke University
He handles the ball with ease, can score from anywhere on the floor, and will only improve as he will have three of the best basketball players in the nation on the floor with him this upcoming NCAA season. He has the ability to be a threat from deep, which he was in high school and has been in Duke’s first few preseason games.
Zion Williamson, PF, Freshman, Duke University
Zion Williamson is the most athletic player in this draft and is the most athletic NBA prospect to come out of high school in the last 10 years. Williamson is a freak of an athlete who plays both ends of the floor, and from watching the Blue Devils’ first few games, it’s clear that he’s become more comfortable taking jump shots.
At 6-foot-7 and 285 pounds, the Duke freshman has made scouts drool while frustrating his opponents.
What will Williamson bring to the NBA?
Everything. Scoring, defense, court vision, leadership and a chip-on-his-shoulder playing style. Putting Williamson in a [pro] uniform could very well be the beginning of a new era in Cleveland for an NBA franchise.
Cavs FansidedRJ Barrett, SG/SF, Freshman, Duke University
Let’s all be honest here: barring a major setback (*knock on wood*), RJ Barrett will be the first overall pick in the 2019 Draft. At 6-foot-7 and just over 200 pounds, there’s absolutely no flaws in his game.
He can shoot the three, he can float the ball over 7-footers, he can jump with Zion Williamson, and above all, he will have great coaching to propel his game this fall.
Duke has a gem in Barrett, and he’ll be given every opportunity to push himself to his best as he’ll be sharing the court with three more elite players in this freshman class.
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I think, heading into the season, I am ready to pull for us adding Cam Reddish.
RJ Barrett is the consensus top prospect. Nassir Little's two-way versatility (and Kawhi comparisons) are really enticing.
But based on our existing core group [it's nice to finally have one of those] and preferred skill set -- Cam Reddish seems the best fit for what we want to do moving forward.
RJ Barrett is the consensus top prospect. Nassir Little's two-way versatility (and Kawhi comparisons) are really enticing.
But based on our existing core group [it's nice to finally have one of those] and preferred skill set -- Cam Reddish seems the best fit for what we want to do moving forward.
Sports IllustratedCam Reddish's Versatility Makes Him Integral to Unlocking Duke's Potential
Cam Reddish is the second highest-rated player in the class of 2018....
Reddish is a highly-heralded but under-hyped wing for Duke. He averaged 23.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks on the Nike EYBL Circuit in 2017 and had a stellar senior season before he was sidelined for the summer due to a groin injury.
He’s a standout shooter with a natural knack for finding the basket who should thrive on the wing of a skilled playmaker like Tre Jones. Reddish’s experience playing point guard in high school has made him into an effortless distributor who can create offense seemingly without breaking a sweat. He maneuvers around the court with little resistance and has a versatility that will be a huge asset for Duke. He’s excellent at balancing when to score and when to facilitate and has a quickness and a reach that give him the ability to potentially guard any position.
Barrett, the No. 1 recruit in the class of 2018, can’t even match the amount of sheer raw talent that Reddish has.
Reddish may currently lack the kind of maturity that comes with experience, which is something the young Duke team will need this season, but his talent will hopefully make up for that.
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Continuing with my love-fest for Killa Cam Reddish:
The Stepien -- August 2018Preseason Thoughts on Cameron Reddish
Cameron Reddish is one of the most interesting players in the draft. Just about everyone agrees that he could end up being the best player in the 2019 draft, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone brave enough to put him number one on their board. Some question his effort, others his drive, and then there’s the on-court demeanor.
Officially listed at 6-foot-8, 218 pounds with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Reddish has the theoretical size to play across four positions. However, Reddish plays and sees himself as guard: “I am just tall enough to be a small forward. I’m best with the ball in my hands.”
Reddish is a strong lead guard who’s mastered the pick and roll game with an ability to thread the needle with either hand. Give him too much space and he’ll shoot with no hesitation. Reddish shot a ridiculous 58.3 percent from 3 last season for Westtown high and was a 54.2 percent shooter during his time at Team USA. Whether it’s off the dribble or off the catch, Reddish has shown an ability to shoot it efficiently, which opens the door for him being effective with other ball-handlers. His signature move is a hard dribble step-back that seemingly always gives him enough separation to get his shot off.
Reddish’s shot profile resembles a very modern NBA team. If he’s not launching 3s, getting to the free throw line or scoring inside, he’s dishing it. As a ball-handler, his handle has improved with more and more reps playing lead guard, but it can still be a little loose when he faces pressure or starts to piece moves together. Reddish’s problems with ball-handling are a matter of reps and he’s actively started to attack the problem by working with Drew Hanlen, a rising star personal trainer.
Offensively, Reddish is the most gifted in the class. He’s good enough to be a lead guard thanks to his above average feel and ball-handling. He can also create for himself, he takes the right shots, and versatility gives his coaches endless options with how to plug him into their offense. The big questions come at the other side of the floor.
Spoiler:
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Re: 2019 NBA Draft Prep
socialsavant wrote:Zion looking like the best player in this class right now. It's clear to me now that people that don't like him just don't get basketball. The things he can do on the court, 99% of other ball players just can't do. He's showcased above average passing ability and IQ in the three Canadian games he's played (passing and IQ are easily translatable to the pros) and if he can prove to be a decent free throw shooter, he should be the #1 overall pick. His efficiency is incredibile. His finishing ability (not just dunks) is elite already, he has the potential to be an elite rebounder regardless the position (think Barkley or Rodman), and he can set up his teammates for easy plays because the defense is looking at him so much. To the poster that tried to discredit my Kawhi comp, just know that I'm looking at these guys at where they were at the same age. He can be that type of defender because he's so athletic. Kawhi is the only player in the world that can guard Lebron because of his strength, length, and lateral quickness. Zion possesses all of these traits. I know the trend these days is to try and discredit players who generate a lot of hype (see Trae Young and Lonzo Ball) and herald lesser known guys but I don't care about trends. I make observations and that's what I talk about. Everyone that I talk to that's seen this kid play agrees, he's a generational type of talent. RJ Barrett is much more skilled than him (partly because he's had the advantage of working with some amazing trainers and coaches) but Zion can leave his mark on the game with or without the ball. Zion's presence is felt as soon as he steps onto the court. I thought he could only play well in transition. I couldn't have been more wrong. In the half court he's a monster, fake passes, pump fakes, in-out dribble, hanging in the air for a layup, misses (rarely but it happens), second jump, throw down. He will absolutely dominate the college ranks. He's also not a big, he's a WING!!!! Tank for Zion!
Young man Zion Williamson is the best Prospect in the Craft only Nazir little can compare to him
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Cam Reddish made the dumbest decision to go to Duke. Now I know he was the first to join but he was stupid for making his decision so early. Reddish needed to go to team with athletic shooters and he's main option so he can score and play make.
Him going to Duke will drop him out of top 5. Poor decesion skills
Him going to Duke will drop him out of top 5. Poor decesion skills
Re: 2019 NBA Draft Prep
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Re: 2019 NBA Draft Prep
I hope you all realize the Hawks aren't getting Mavericks pick this year. Mavs are going to tank and be bottom 2 team in West.
Did y'all forget about Mark Cuban comments about tanking. He's smart enough to know that is stupid to finish 10th in West and not have 1st Rd pick when you can be bottom 2 team in west and keep your top 5 pick and draft elite prospect to team up with Doncic and Smith Jr.
Expect to get the Mavericks in 2020
Did y'all forget about Mark Cuban comments about tanking. He's smart enough to know that is stupid to finish 10th in West and not have 1st Rd pick when you can be bottom 2 team in west and keep your top 5 pick and draft elite prospect to team up with Doncic and Smith Jr.
Expect to get the Mavericks in 2020