Anthony Davis

[Dmaxcs]

How do you guys feel about him? Do you think he will fit well on our roster?

[ChuckHayes69]

He's the one guy at the top of the draft I have no clue on. I could see him being the next KG, Aldridge, or Bosh, maybe more of a Camby type, or quite possibly the next Brandan Wright/Tyrus Thomas/Anthony Randolph/Insert any one of 10+ super skinny freak athletes who have been busts. I think his offensive skills are a bit overrated by some, even though there is clearly some potential there. If you look back at that list of guys in College I don't think any of them had any less offensive potential than Davis.

Add the risk inherent in drafting this type of player with us having Biyombo and Thomas on the roster (both freakishly athletic shot blockers who are both offensively challenged, at least right now) and I don't really like his fit with the team. If he turns into a Wright/Thomas/Randolph it sets this franchise back a long time again (like the Morrison bust, etc.), and even if he is decent we already have Thomas and Biyombo.

I'd prefer Drummond and Barnes for this team. I might even prefer MKG. All three seem like safer bets, and all three have skill sets that fit into the "core" of this team better.

Having said all that, though, I could easily see him being by far the best player in this draft is he improves his size and/or offensive game.

[skratch]

Not sold on em for some reason, i just think hes going to be a bust, i think anybody we draft is going to be a bust, question is can he deliver offensively?

[Veteran_Picksetter]

I'd be thrilled to have Davis.

1. It's a legitimate question to ask how he fits in with the roster. But when you are adding a number one caliber player, you don't worry too much about how he fits with a Biyombo or a Thomas. You hope a Biyombo or Thomas will fit with him. It reminds me of a few years ago on the Charlotte Observer forum when some guys were questioning how a Derrick Rose would fit in with Ray Felton already on the roster if we lucked up to get the first pick. Uh.....OK.........

2. Davis is a good to great rebounder and an ELITE, SUPREME, RECORD-SETTING shotblocker NOW. He is PRODUCING. This is not just about potential. He is DOING it. And rebounding/shotblocking translate well to the next level.

3. Davis is 15-20 pounds heavier than Brandan Wright at the same stage of their careers. Yeah, he's still skinny. But he's showing he can get it done as a collegiate star. Wright was not even close to Davis's level in college.

4. I'm a big fan of length and statistical productivity. Davis has 'em.

Yeah, Davis WOULD be another PF. But I think he and/or Biyombo will grow into minutes at the Center position. They would man the 2 interior positions nicely a few years from now. Obviously the 3 perimeter positions would then have to be loaded with ball skills.

Thanks for reading.

[Demon DeaCat]

It's just so hard projecting what a college freshman is going to be 5 years down the road. It was so much easier being a scout or a GM back in the day when guys stayed in college 3 or 4 years. Based what I see right now though I'm not sold on Davis. The shot-blocking is a given, but setting that aside, he just doesn't appear to be very coordinated. His movement is not fluid. This is probably not that uncommon for young bigs, especially those who have experienced a recent growth spurt as he has, but nevertheless, it is a concern. I haven't seen all of his games, but I've watched 5-6 and I think I've yet to see him score off of a legitimate post move. It's usually either a dunk, stick-back or free throw. Those will be far less-frequent at the next level. His size (i.e. weight) is probably the most easily correctable of his deficiencies, but until it is addressed, it will also be a significant obstacle in his transition to the NBA. In short, I question whether he will ever become a complete player who is worthy of a #1 overall pick. I think it's far more likely that he will join the long list of tall, athletic shot-blockers who can't score, many of whom were listed above.

[dav7z]

To me Barnes is the safest pick . But im not sold on him being the best player. Lick others i could see Davis falling into that groupe advove.

[SWedd523]

Part of what makes Davis so likable as a prospect is the fact that despite his growth spurt, he's still kept the fluidity and coordination he had as a guard. That has never been questioned.

[Demon DeaCat]

I guess it has now.

[Keetch]

Chad Ford said in a recent chat that EVERY NBA team has him at No. 1.

He's pretty awesome as is I think and yet still has a lot of filling out yet to do.

No brainer No. 1 for me too.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

It's just so hard projecting what a college freshman is going to be 5 years down the road. It was so much easier being a scout or a GM back in the day when guys stayed in college 3 or 4 years. Based what I see right now though I'm not sold on Davis. The shot-blocking is a given, but setting that aside, he just doesn't appear to be very coordinated. His movement is not fluid. This is probably not that uncommon for young bigs, especially those who have experienced a recent growth spurt as he has, but nevertheless, it is a concern. I haven't seen all of his games, but I've watched 5-6 and I think I've yet to see him score off of a legitimate post move. It's usually either a dunk, stick-back or free throw. Those will be far less-frequent at the next level. His size (i.e. weight) is probably the most easily correctable of his deficiencies, but until it is addressed, it will also be a significant obstacle in his transition to the NBA. In short, I question whether he will ever become a complete player who is worthy of a #1 overall pick. I think it's far more likely that he will join the long list of tall, athletic shot-blockers who can't score, many of whom were listed above.

Perhaps he hasn't developed post moves yet because he was supposedly a guard his whole life??

I think an incredible rebounder/shotblocker can be worthy of a number 1 pick. Anything extra like offensive moves would be a bonus.

I can see Davis getting lobs all day long on the pick-and-roll.

Bottom line for me is that Davis is already massively producing in ways that will translate to the nba.

[CatNation1]

id prefer someone with back to the basket skills but since those kind of players dont exist anymore i guess ill be happy for davis

[SWedd523]

I guess it has now.

I think I'll go with what every "other" scout has to say on this one.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

id prefer someone with back to the basket skills but since those kind of players dont exist anymore i guess ill be happy for davis

Jared Sullinger??

[Demon DeaCat]

I think I'll go with what every "other" scout has to say on this one.

I'm shocked to hear that you would "go with" anyone's opinion on anything since you're apparently a self-proclaimed expert on all things pertaining to basketball.

[SWedd523]

I'm shocked to hear that you would "go with" anyone's opinion on anything since you're apparently a self-proclaimed expert on all things pertaining to basketball.

Would you be so kind as to direct me to the post where I said that I'm a self-proclaimed "expert on all things pertaining to basketball" ?

[Demon DeaCat]

Would you be so kind as to direct me to the post where I said that I'm a self-proclaimed "expert on all things pertaining to basketball" ?

That is certainly the tone in which a good number of your posts are written. I actually think you make a number of salient points, some of which I agree with and some which I don't, but the flip manner in which you respond to a number of posters on this forum is rather obnoxious and unnecessary.

[Chef]

I'm shocked to hear that you would "go with" anyone's opinion on anything since you're apparently a self-proclaimed expert on all things pertaining to basketball.

i declared him the planet's expert. and if you have a problem with that ....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWOn1dFmFds

[SWedd523]

That is certainly the tone in which a good number of your posts are written. I actually think you make a number of salient points, some of which I agree with and some which I don't, but the flip manner in which you respond to a number of posters on this forum is rather obnoxious and unnecessary.

When you post something off base, blatantly biased, or plain wrong, then you deserve to be called out for it. Saying Davis isn't coordinated fluid is simply untrue and needs to be addressed because you're clearly looking at him wrong. It's not that I'm making fun of you. I'm wrong all the time. All last year, I thought Barnes was going to be a superstar. Now I know better.


From ESPN: "Davis is a unique player. In high school, he was a 6-foot-1 guard before a huge growth spurt, and he remains an elite athlete who runs the floor like a much smaller player."

From DraftExpress: "He plays extremely hard and is incredibly mobile on top of that. He has the ability to step out on the perimeter and contest shots effectively while also being able to rotate and establish himself as a shot-blocker thanks to his excellent timing."

From NBADraft: "Combines a versatile skill-set with excellent length, fluidity and athleticism"

[ALong13]

I think he is the consensus #1 pick so if we win the lottery we have to take him. I really like the kid and think he could be good. My question is if he can put on the wait to play center or will we just have yet another PF on the roster? If so I think Thomas will be gone, either through trade or amnesty

[Demon DeaCat]

When you post something off base, blatantly biased, or plain wrong, then you deserve to be called out for it. Saying Davis isn't coordinated fluid is simply untrue and needs to be addressed because you're clearly looking at him wrong. It's not that I'm making fun of you. I'm wrong all the time. All last year, I thought Barnes was going to be a superstar. Now I know better.


From ESPN: "Davis is a unique player. In high school, he was a 6-foot-1 guard before a huge growth spurt, and he remains an elite athlete who runs the floor like a much smaller player."

From DraftExpress: "He plays extremely hard and is incredibly mobile on top of that. He has the ability to step out on the perimeter and contest shots effectively while also being able to rotate and establish himself as a shot-blocker thanks to his excellent timing."

From NBADraft: "Combines a versatile skill-set with excellent length, fluidity and athleticism"

This is exactly what I'm talking about. I'm off-base and clearly looking at him wrong? Why? because I happen to have a different opinion from you? Because some guy at draftexpress.com said so?

I can play that game too:

From Swish Scout.com: "His footwork is choppy and he doesn’t get his feet set properly going into moves, instead relying on his size and athleticism to awkwardly shoot over his man as quick as possible, rather than outmaneuvering them."

Adjectives like "choppy" and "awkward" are hardly synonymous with fluid and coordinated. The point is, we can all find someone somewhere to support what we're trying to say so the fact that some guru on a website happens to agree with you does not render my opinion invalid. I watch elite athletes perform on a daily basis so I think I have a somewhat informed opinion on the matter.

What you apparently fail to realize is that reasonable minds can disagree, particularly on a subjective observation such as this. That's my main issue with you, your absolutism and the condescending way that you dismiss the opinions of others. If you want to debate an issue that's great. I welcome the discourse, but as the saying goes, you can disagree without being disagreeable. You might want to keep that in mind the next time you feel the need to "call someone out".

[Plowright]

Apparantly i read the Davis doesn't "demand" the ball like many college stars do on offence and doesnt complain when he doesnt get it. Apparantly this is rare, but i recon his numbers would increase if he did. Can i ask one question, i havent seen Davis play at all but from the description: Shotblocker, fluent mover, no post moves, needs to fill out.... Can anyone else understand why this sounds like TT? I am sure he isn't, but can someone explain to how he is different. I know he is not a knucklehead like TT is...

[Chef]

This is exactly what I'm talking about. I'm off-base and clearly looking at him wrong? Why? because I happen to have a different opinion from you? Because some guy at draftexpress.com said so?

I can play that game too:

From Swish Scout.com: "His footwork is choppy and he doesn’t get his feet set properly going into moves, instead relying on his size and athleticism to awkwardly shoot over his man as quick as possible, rather than outmaneuvering them."

Adjectives like "choppy" and "awkward" are hardly synonymous with fluid and coordinated. The point is, we can all find someone somewhere to support what we're trying to say so the fact that some guru on a website happens to agree with you does not render my opinion invalid. I watch elite athletes perform on a daily basis so I think I have a somewhat informed opinion on the matter.

What you apparently fail to realize is that reasonable minds can disagree, particularly on a subjective observation such as this. That's my main issue with you, your absolutism and the condescending way that you dismiss the opinions of others. If you want to debate an issue that's great. I welcome the discourse, but as the saying goes, you can disagree without being disagreeable. You might want to keep that in mind the next time you feel the need to "call someone out".

look man, you are being wayyy to sensitive about this.

i actually agree with you on the offensive end, what i have seen of davis concerning creating his own shot isn't all that great. he has a lot of work to do. not sure about the skinny guys get destroyed down low thing. he is blocking shots straight on where ty thomas, stromile swift etc were helpside blockers.

but, in fairness you "called out" swedd first with your "i guess it has now" post. that took the argument from scouts say...to a more aggressive debate. when you did that, you can't turn around and get offended when he responds to that. in reality, his response was much more civilized and in debate form then your initial response. you are certainly welcome to debate point of views, present sources, mildly insult each other but don't fire the first bullet then complain that he shot back.

trust me there are plenty of times i have been in such arguments, i just gave up on one with spec on the main forum about why our offense sucked. i stated my point, he stated his, there was some restating and that was it. everyone can read the posts decide for themselves that i am clearly correct and move on. that's that, until i catch up with him and leave him a pm with a virus laced into it that will turn his hard drive into play dough.

[CatNation1]

imo Davis looks fluid in the open court and running around but he can look pretty awkward in the post on offense and defense. mostly because hes a gangly rail and not especially strong. sooo many of his points are lob dunks and putbacks and he doesnt score that much to begin with i just worry about his ability to consistently score in the NBA when those chances are so much rarer.

[SWedd523]

This is exactly what I'm talking about. I'm off-base and clearly looking at him wrong? Why? because I happen to have a different opinion from you? Because some guy at draftexpress.com said so?

I can play that game too:

From Swish Scout.com: "His footwork is choppy and he doesn’t get his feet set properly going into moves, instead relying on his size and athleticism to awkwardly shoot over his man as quick as possible, rather than outmaneuvering them."

Adjectives like "choppy" and "awkward" are hardly synonymous with fluid and coordinated. The point is, we can all find someone somewhere to support what we're trying to say so the fact that some guru on a website happens to agree with you does not render my opinion invalid. I watch elite athletes perform on a daily basis so I think I have a somewhat informed opinion on the matter.

What you apparently fail to realize is that reasonable minds can disagree, particularly on a subjective observation such as this. That's my main issue with you, your absolutism and the condescending way that you dismiss the opinions of others. If you want to debate an issue that's great. I welcome the discourse, but as the saying goes, you can disagree without being disagreeable. You might want to keep that in mind the next time you feel the need to "call someone out".

I think you're misunderstanding what they mean by lack of post moves with lack of fluidity or coordination. For example, LeBron James is an exceptionally gifted athlete with tremendous coordination and fluidity, but when he's in the post, he looks "choppy" and "awkward". You can also insert a guy like Bismack, Tyson Chandler, etc where I have LeBron's name. There is a separation between "fluid and coordinated" athletically and "fluid and coordinated" on offensive post moves. If you were to have said Davis isn't particularly fluid when he has the ball in his hands on the low block, then I would have said something like, "I can see where you're coming from".


Subjective observations that can lead to legitimate discussion are: "Kidd-Gilchrist vs. Harrison Barnes", "Barnes' best NBA comparison", "Should MJ change the team's name?". Because they are debatable points of conversation since they are open-ended in nature.

Not something like: "Barnes can't shoot", "Davis is not a fluid athlete", "Kendall Marshall isn't a good passer" Because they really aren't debatable points of conversation since they aren't open-ended in nature.



Just because you have an opinion doesn't make it a possibly valid one. I can sit here all day and say USC is the greatest school in the world, and I'm sure there are people out there that believe it. But it certainly isn't true.

The prevailing wisdom on Davis is that he's a fantastically capable athlete despite his growth spurt and has blossomed into a tremendous basketball player who has a couple of knocks on him based on his weight and his developing offensive game. There's a reason why that is the prevailing wisdom.

The only reason it's condescending is because it goes against what you have to say, so you blindly attack me for being absolutist when it couldn't be farther from the truth. As I said, I'm wrong on plenty of occasions. But if you want to act like my goal in life is to put "those stupid cretins in their place because I'm the all-knowing god of the basketball world", then you can go with it. But again.... it doesn't make it true.

[Demon DeaCat]

look man, you are being wayyy to sensitive about this.

i actually agree with you on the offensive end, what i have seen of davis concerning creating his own shot isn't all that great. he has a lot of work to do. not sure about the skinny guys get destroyed down low thing. he is blocking shots straight on where ty thomas, stromile swift etc were helpside blockers.

but, in fairness you "called out" swedd first with your "i guess it has now" post. that took the argument from scouts say...to a more aggressive debate. when you did that, you can't turn around and get offended when he responds to that. in reality, his response was much more civilized and in debate form then your initial response. you are certainly welcome to debate point of views, present sources, mildly insult each other but don't fire the first bullet then complain that he shot back.

trust me there are plenty of times i have been in such arguments, i just gave up on one with spec on the main forum about why our offense sucked. i stated my point, he stated his, there was some restating and that was it. everyone can read the posts decide for themselves that i am clearly correct and move on. that's that, until i catch up with him and leave him a pm with a virus laced into it that will turn his hard drive into play dough.

What are you, Swedd's big brother? This was between me and him. Why are you even getting in the middle of it? I think he's capable of speaking for himself. I know what was said and how it was said, in this thread and previous ones. I don't need you to interpret that for me.

[SWedd523]

What are you, Swedd's big brother? This was between me and him. Why are you even getting in the middle of it? I think he's capable of speaking for himself. I know what was said and how it was said, in this thread and previous ones. I don't need you to interpret that for me.

You need to go back and read what I said because none of it was condescending in nature. The first post with any sort of condescension in our little back and forth is this one:


I'm shocked to hear that you would "go with" anyone's opinion on anything since you're apparently a self-proclaimed expert on all things pertaining to basketball.

But reading through the original post I have quoted, it's obvious I struck a nerve with you in some previous thread ("I know what was said and how it was said, in this thread and previous ones") and it seems you have something against me. Now, I can appreciate the fact that you find my opinion so important that you have to let what someone said on the internet get to you, but I think it's time you let it go. My goal isn't to put you down or make you feel stupid. My original point was, and remains, that the prevailing opinion on Davis is that fluidity and coordination aren't issues.


But I do feel obligated to tell you that this forum has an ignore list. I suggest you click on my user name, then click the link that says "Add to ignore list".

[spectre]

trust me there are plenty of times i have been in such arguments, i just gave up on one with spec on the main forum about why our offense sucked. i stated my point, he stated his, there was some restating and that was it. everyone can read the posts decide for themselves that i am clearly correct and move on. that's that, until i catch up with him and leave him a pm with a virus laced into it that will turn his hard drive into play dough.

:hysterical:

Ya big chicken...you know you bailed because of my great wisdom in all things concerning basketball offensive strategy!

Heh, I HAVE to pay more attention to these college prospect threads. Clearly Sweed doesn't have my back in here.

[spectre]

Oh yeah...Demon Deacons > Gamecocks.

[Demon DeaCat]

You need to go back and read what I said because none of it was condescending in nature. The first post with any sort of condescension in our little back and forth is this one:



But reading through the original post I have quoted, it's obvious I struck a nerve with you in some previous thread ("I know what was said and how it was said, in this thread and previous ones") and it seems you have something against me. Now, I can appreciate the fact that you find my opinion so important that you have to let what someone said on the internet get to you, but I think it's time you let it go. My goal isn't to put you down or make you feel stupid. My original point was, and remains, that the prevailing opinion on Davis is that fluidity and coordination aren't issues.


But I do feel obligated to tell you that this forum has an ignore list. I suggest you click on my user name, then click the link that says "Add to ignore list".

The fact that you felt the need to type a follow up post after I chose not to respond to the one you sent 40 minutes ago would suggest that you're the one who needs to let it go and move on. I already have.

[SWedd523]

Heh, I HAVE to pay more attention to these college prospect threads. Clearly Sweed doesn't have my back in here.

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/7/Banned.jpg

[Chef]

What are you, Swedd's big brother? This was between me and him. Why are you even getting in the middle of it? I think he's capable of speaking for himself. I know what was said and how it was said, in this thread and previous ones. I don't need you to interpret that for me.

you are right. i am sorry that your series of PM's were posted on the public threads here by a glitch in the discussion board software platform. i mean it isn't like these messages were meant to be posted for all to read and comment on. because if they were, it would be absolutely asinine for me to correctly point out that you are the one acting like a high brow condescending know it all prick.

despite weighing in on a private conversation and all, i will explain my post. one of my main missions is to try to ensure that this site never becomes as nasty and combative as realgm. when i see someone who is treading towards that tone, i try to either run interference or straight call them out. if you have a problem with this then leave.

but, i don't want it to get past you that I ACTUALLY AGREE WITH YOU in parts. my main concern with davis as a #1 pick overall is his offensive game. i am a firm believer that we need an offensive superstar more than any single thing regardless of position. let's say davis does turn out to be a shot blocking menace who avgs around 12 boards a game. history shows he will need an offensive superstar to get him a ring see ewing, morning, motumbo to a lesser degree ben wallace, dennis rodman etc. however, if he is the bpa we need to take him regardless of position or projection. we are that bad.

[Demon DeaCat]

it would be absolutely asinine for me to correctly point out that you are the one acting like a high brow condescending know it all prick.


one of my main missions is to try to ensure that this site never becomes as nasty and combative as realgm.

Well in that case, let me commend you on the fine job you're doing making sure this site doesn't become nasty or combative. Name calling generally tends to have a calming affect in most situations.

[Chef]

Well in that case, let me commend you on the fine job you're doing making sure this site doesn't become nasty or combative. Name calling generally tends to have a calming affect in most situations.

saying how you are acting and calling you a name are two very different things. until you were personally coming after me, i made no mentions of my thoughts of your tone. to be clear, i am not calling you a high brow condescending know it all prick, i am saying you are acting like one. i don't know you nor would i project anything to your character. i can only comment on your contributions to the board and this tiff with swedd is coming across in this manner. if i did offend you, i apologize and do want you to know that i appreciate any and all opinions to this community. except for spectre's.

[SWedd523]

Well in that case, let me commend you on the fine job you're doing making sure this site doesn't become nasty or combative. Name calling generally tends to have a calming affect in most situations.

I agree. Chef deserves the BCP Citizenship Award for his commitment to community service


http://www.storypoint.info/eph4one/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/gold-star-graphic.jpg

Best I could do on such short notice

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Apparantly i read the Davis doesn't "demand" the ball like many college stars do on offence and doesnt complain when he doesnt get it. Apparantly this is rare, but i recon his numbers would increase if he did. Can i ask one question, i havent seen Davis play at all but from the description: Shotblocker, fluent mover, no post moves, needs to fill out.... Can anyone else understand why this sounds like TT? I am sure he isn't, but can someone explain to how he is different. I know he is not a knucklehead like TT is...

1. Davis is listed with a greater height(by 1.75") and wingspan at near-age 19 than Tyrus was at near-age 20 during his nba combine. (See draftexpress measurements. I look forward to more "official" combine results for Davis)
2. Davis is a far superior shotblocker to even Tyrus Thomas. Just look at the college numbers. Davis is unreal in this regard.
3. Like you said, he isn't a knucklehead like Tyrus supposedly is. I personally think that goes a long way.
4. Maybe it's because Davis wears tight shirts, but to me he looks broader-shouldered than Thomas. Thomas just looks like he's wearing away from a disease.
5. Davis is unreal on lobs. The worst-passing point guard in the league would still connect with him on plenty of alley oops. When he raises up and spreads those arms, the target area is huge.

I say if Davis has the best chance of being an nba star, then take him number 1 regardless of our roster.

[Zoolander]

Dear Mr. Davis,

Congratulations! You are doing an excellent job at the College level, but personally I don't want you. No knock on you ofcourse. I just feel this franchise needs a top scorer reeaal bad. So excuse me but I'm rooting for Jeremy Lamb whom an NBAdraft.net writer compares to Reggie Miller. Sooo have a nice life and Please remember my kind words when you play against the Bobcats next year.

Sincerely,

Zoolander

[ohara831]

22 pts 8 reb and 8 blks for Davis tonight. Another night at the office. Kid is terrific.

[Chrystos]

Dear Mr. Davis,

Congratulations! You are doing an excellent job at the College level, but personally I don't want you. No knock on you ofcourse. I just feel this franchise needs a top scorer reeaal bad. So excuse me but I'm rooting for Jeremy Lamb whom an NBAdraft.net writer compares to Reggie Miller. Sooo have a nice life and Please remember my kind words when you play against the Bobcats next year.

Sincerely,

Zoolander

I think you are right here. Davis may have a huge upside, but he also a very risky player, and right now, I am pretty sure the Bobcats need a sure thing. Lamb is one of the safest players in the draft and I think he will be a great franchise player.

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

Could anyone get a shot off against us in the paint with this dude paired with smack? Might be very potent front court. With that being said I hate it if we have to pass on this guy and hate it if we have to draft him. As was previously stated I really think we need a go-to scorer and this could be our best chance at finding our star. I just don't see it with davis. Call me crazy.

[Pepperz]

With a front court of Biz and Davis, we would have a VERY good interior D. Driving in on us is going to be a BITCH. I know how everybody is complaining about Davis not having the offense we need but he is not the final piece to the puzzle. I expect to do bad for another year or two. We can still get that great scorer then to place next to this interior D and we are all set. What happens if we are able to get somebody like Shabazz in next years draft. We will have a fucking solid team. Anything can happen so dont worry about his offense yet as he will get better in due time.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

With a front court of Biz and Davis, we would have a VERY good interior D. Driving in on us is going to be a BITCH. I know how everybody is complaining about Davis not having the offense we need but he is not the final piece to the puzzle.

(And later)

Anything can happen so dont worry about his offense yet as he will get better in due time.

Exactly. He is not the final piece.

Honestly, the more I look into this kid, the more I like him. Just give him a few years of physical maturity/weight-training and those shoulders will blow up. I have faith that he will be a complete player in time. Or at the very least an all-defensive team caliber player and a pesky offensive rebounder. From day one he will be noticably better than 'Smack and Tyrus. Y'all hold me to that....

[dnbman]

First, I want to say that you are all condescending clowns, but....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2uJoVEwbmc

Second, despite being a clown, I defer to Swedd on all college related things. (At least, when I'm not deferring to Keetch or someone else wiser than Swedd.)

Third, Anthony Davis would be nice.

DNBMAN HATH SPOKEN!

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Dnbman,

I find your "cult of biyombo" logo to be mildly erotic.

I always did like a good wingspan on a prospect......

[Keetch]

First, I want to say that you are all condescending clowns.

Second, despite being a clown, I defer to Swedd on all college related things. (At least, when I'm not deferring to Keetch or someone else wiser than Swedd.)

Thank you for the shout out DNBman; I will try harder to be condescending to everyone I meet; especially family, friends and Swedd.

[Bobcatter]

"Can't we just all get along?"- Rodney King

I'm not even going to try to get hyped up about the Cats getting the number 1 pick (it's hard not to) because chances are they won't land it. The Timberwolves were last in the league and only had a 25% chance of getting the 1st pick. Unless Davis doesn't drop, I'd hope that the team goes with one of the SFs, or Drummond if Cho and company are fairly confident he won't bust on us. I'd also be pretty excited if we could snag Festus Ezeli with our 2nd round pick.

[Jennings]

I like Davis a lot, but how long would we have to wait for an offensive game? We desperately need offense, but I do think this team will look drastically different next year. It will be interesting.

[superb1]

Here is some info from an article on his offensive breakdown.

http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs

Anthony Davis is converting 67 percent of his 2-point attempts, with the majority of his touches coming off cuts, offensive rebounds, fast-breaks, and pick-and-rolls.

According to Synergy Sports Technology, only 20 percent of Davis’ offense comes off post-up, spot-up or isolation plays.

Davis is shooting just 27 percent on jumpshots while connecting on 71 percent of his free throw attempts.

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs#ixzz1mjT1CQR8

[dnbman]

Here is some info from an article on his offensive breakdown.

http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs

Anthony Davis is converting 67 percent of his 2-point attempts, with the majority of his touches coming off cuts, offensive rebounds, fast-breaks, and pick-and-rolls.

According to Synergy Sports Technology, only 20 percent of Davis’ offense comes off post-up, spot-up or isolation plays.

Davis is shooting just 27 percent on jumpshots while connecting on 71 percent of his free throw attempts.

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs#ixzz1mjT1CQR8

I think that would describe Amare's game when he entered the league. I'm not too concerned about it, as I think Davis can probably develop more skills in the post and shooting. Supposedly, he was quite the player before his storied growth spurt.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Here is some info from an article on his offensive breakdown.

http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs

Anthony Davis is converting 67 percent of his 2-point attempts, with the majority of his touches coming off cuts, offensive rebounds, fast-breaks, and pick-and-rolls.

According to Synergy Sports Technology, only 20 percent of Davis’ offense comes off post-up, spot-up or isolation plays.

Davis is shooting just 27 percent on jumpshots while connecting on 71 percent of his free throw attempts.

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219069/Anthony_Davis_Generating_Majority_Of_Offense_Off_C uts_Put_Backs#ixzz1mjT1CQR8

Thanks for the stats!

They used to call these guys players that you don't have to run plays for. As in a positive thing. In the pick-and-roll world of the nba, Davis will be awesome. At this point I would draft him #1 without hesitation.

Patrick Ewing was thought to be merely a defender/rebounder coming out of college and EVERYBODY wanted him. Because he was simply so incredible at it and completely intimidating.

[ohara831]

Most sites I have seen compare him to Chris Bosh. A couple say his ceiling is close to a Tim Duncan. He'd have to grow a couple a couple more inches to get Duncan's height, but his arm length makes it close anyway. As far as I'm concerned, if he reached Bosh ability, I'd be very happy. If he just gets close to Duncan's ability, I would be in heaven. He's worth the #1 pick. He is only 18. Let him develope his game. He can dominate inside the paint. But if he can develope a consistent 8-10 ft jumper also, the sky is the liimit. He is the only player in this Draft who has the potential to be a franchise changer for a team. And if the Bobcats can land him, and surround him with young talent like Kemba, Henderson and Biyombo, then this franchise could finally turn the corner in a big way.

[Mustachio]

big saturday for the bobcats! Both Davis and Barnes playing at 4 oclock today. Happy Bobcats Future Day everyone!

[Plowright]

Any links to watch the games?

[Mustachio]

Alright Anthony Davis fans. Time to sell me.

This Kentucky - Ole Miss game was my first real chance to watch Davis (and Harrison Barnes while Davis spent most of the first half in foul trouble). And while I have been impressed with his highlights and youtube clips and tid bits I've seen, I can't say I am completely sold. I realize his potential is great at 18 yo, and his defensive abilities paired alongside Bismack are enough to bottle and prescribe as an alternate to Cialis, but a couple things really stood out to me that make me cringe.

1. His lack of offense outside of dunks. Defensively he is a star and alongside Bismack it will be tough to sell. But who is gonna score down low? Don't get me wrong, I know its not fair to base judgement off one game but a lot of the times on offense he seems to be a mere decoy downlow.

2. How small he looks on the court. He is 18, he is probably still growing, and he can add a ton of muscle on a professional teams weight lifting progam (hasn't worked for tyrus). But man he looks small out there to me.

The reason I bring those up is that I am comparing him to Barnes as they are our most popular options at #1. And to me Barnes looks big for his position and has a really developed diverse offensive game for a 19 year old. And I also feel like Barnes more than holds his own on the defensive end.

I would be stupid happy if we get Davis, but I am feeling more and more like we may get more value out of a Harrison Barnes pick. So sell me.

[CatNation1]

when Barnes jumpshot isnt dropping contributes nothing else to the game and goes invisible. Davis impacts the game on multiple levels on both ends of the floor. his impact can never be invisible because he changes the way a team has to play just by standing somewhere

[GoBobs]

I see him more as starting his career as a SF in the NBA. The thing that makes him most valuable is he can defend the rim without fouling. When we play without Biyombo or Tyrus Thomas in the game our defense is terribly soft. Biyombo needs to develop a bit before he can be counted on. Thomas is always hurt, and not consistently good. Davis plays without fouling and makes his free throws. So far he also doesn't seem to get hurt often or have any lingering injury concerns.

He is doing a couple things right now that are very impressive. His shot blocking numbers put him among the best ever and he hardly ever fouls. His fg% shows that he knows how to get easy buckets for his team. Clearly the guy knows his role and doesn't try to do to much. That speaks volumes for a young player because usually young guys are trying to prove they are good at all the things they really aren't. His teammates all seem to enjoy playing with him and the kid is pretty down to earth for someone so talented by all accounts. Oh and he also pulls down ten rebounds per game. What else do you want from a prospect?

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Alright Anthony Davis fans. Time to sell me.

This Kentucky - Ole Miss game was my first real chance to watch Davis (and Harrison Barnes while Davis spent most of the first half in foul trouble). And while I have been impressed with his highlights and youtube clips and tid bits I've seen, I can't say I am completely sold. I realize his potential is great at 18 yo, and his defensive abilities paired alongside Bismack are enough to bottle and prescribe as an alternate to Cialis, but a couple things really stood out to me that make me cringe.

1. His lack of offense outside of dunks. Defensively he is a star and alongside Bismack it will be tough to sell. But who is gonna score down low? Don't get me wrong, I know its not fair to base judgement off one game but a lot of the times on offense he seems to be a mere decoy downlow.

2. How small he looks on the court. He is 18, he is probably still growing, and he can add a ton of muscle on a professional teams weight lifting progam (hasn't worked for tyrus). But man he looks small out there to me.

The reason I bring those up is that I am comparing him to Barnes as they are our most popular options at #1. And to me Barnes looks big for his position and has a really developed diverse offensive game for a 19 year old. And I also feel like Barnes more than holds his own on the defensive end.

I would be stupid happy if we get Davis, but I am feeling more and more like we may get more value out of a Harrison Barnes pick. So sell me.

Davis:
His shoulders look very broad, much broader than Tyrus's. Scouts tend to view this as a good frame for adding weight over time. Look at how Rasheed Wallace and Sam Perkins packed on the pounds after their college days. Davis should be fine in this regard.

You don't have to run plays for him. This used to be considered a good thing in a prospect, but somehow with Davis it is being viewed as a negative. I get it. We want a "go to"......

He's perfect for pick-and-roll basketball, which the nba thrives on.

It's not just that he is a great defensive presence. He is a record-setting, supreme, elite defensive presence. Defense is there every night, whereas shooting comes and goes.

Kemba Walker breaks down the defense but misses a lot of shots. Anthony Davis will turn a lot of those misses into points. It's like a perfect combination!

Davis's recent background as a guard can explain why he doesn't have developed post moves yet. I like the comfort he has with the ball in his hands on the perimeter. I like the fluidity of his movement.

I'm just a big fan of length and verticality. I think his measurements will compare favorably to Tyrus's. We'll see at the combine.

Barnes:

I wouldn't be too disappointed if we got him either. But I think Davis is the one with superstar potential.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

I see him more as starting his career as a SF in the NBA. The thing that makes him most valuable is he can defend the rim without fouling. When we play without Biyombo or Tyrus Thomas in the game our defense is terribly soft. Biyombo needs to develop a bit before he can be counted on. Thomas is always hurt, and not consistently good. Davis plays without fouling and makes his free throws. So far he also doesn't seem to get hurt often or have any lingering injury concerns.

He is doing a couple things right now that are very impressive. His shot blocking numbers put him among the best ever and he hardly ever fouls. His fg% shows that he knows how to get easy buckets for his team. Clearly the guy knows his role and doesn't try to do to much. That speaks volumes for a young player because usually young guys are trying to prove they are good at all the things they really aren't. His teammates all seem to enjoy playing with him and the kid is pretty down to earth for someone so talented by all accounts. Oh and he also pulls down ten rebounds per game. What else do you want from a prospect?

Wholeheartedly agree with all of this except the first sentence. I know he's skinny, but he needs to be around the rim and rolling off of the pick-and-rolls. Play him as a big. He'll be down there to board a lot of Kemba and DJ's misses. He'll be down there swatting shots left and right.

[cltblkhscoach]

I can understand all of those things, I really can....but who in the hell is going to score for us? That's my concern, but I guess it comes down to what do the Charlotte Bobcats want to be known for? That question is what we need to know the answer to.

[Pepperz]

Why is everybody think that Davis is going to be the final piece to the puzzle of a championship caliber team? Hating on the man cuz he's not going to score 30 points a night on a regular basis. If he can bring Elite D to this team, GREAT. We will have to go thru another draft before we are even ready to make a run. That will give us a chance to get a top scorer then. So until then, lets go BPA and figure it out from there.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Why is everybody think that Davis is going to be the final piece to the puzzle of a championship caliber team? Hating on the man cuz he's not going to score 30 points a night on a regular basis. If he can bring Elite D to this team, GREAT. We will have to go thru another draft before we are even ready to make a run. That will give us a chance to get a top scorer then. So until then, lets go BPA and figure it out from there.

Amen. We are awful. We can't really afford to worry about how a top 4 pick fits with our mediocre-to-bad roster pieces. Just get the player with the best chance to be an eventual all-star. Davis's help defense and offensive rebounding are guaranteed to be amazing. Anything else he develops will be a bonus.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

I can understand all of those things, I really can....but who in the hell is going to score for us? That's my concern, but I guess it comes down to what do the Charlotte Bobcats want to be known for? That question is what we need to know the answer to.

Sorry to be so repetitive, but picture a lot this:

Kemba breaks down the defense, gets into the lane, draws a big, gets off a shot. It either goes in, or Davis is there for the offensive rebound and score. Night after night...

Now, if Henderson can get up to 18 points a game next year, that would be great.

The last I checked, we ranked very poorly in opponent FG%, even with a couple of good shotblockers. We need defensive improvement as well as offensive.

[Pepperz]

I know this is from a couple years back but the numbers dont lie. Defense wins. Two amazing shot blocks will be phenomenal as well as a great defensive wing.

http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/john_schuhmann/04/08/numbers.game/index.html

[The Milk]

Davis is so lacking offensively that I feel that unless he boosts our defense to a top 10 D. He isn't worth it. I vote Harrison Barnes...just my 2 cents.

[SWedd523]

Barnes: 18 ppg as the first/second option
Davis: 14 ppg as the fourth/fifth option

If you want a scorer so bad, you're better off pinning your hopes on Lamb or Sullinger.

[Pepperz]

Swedd, you know that can be a bit misleading right there. Just PPG doesnt tell the whole story.

Barnes 18.0 PPG / 27.5 mins
Davis 13.9 PPG / 31.0 mins
Lamb 17.9 PPG / 37.0 mins
Sullinger 17.5 / 29.6 mins

Both Lamb and Barnes are clear 1st options of there teams but you can see that Lamb is on the court about 10 more mins to get the same amount of point production. Lamb does have better handles on the court but does that automatically translate to better scorer.

As far as the other two, Davis and Sullinger, they have a fairly even distribution amongst their team in shots. Davis takes roughly the same amount of shots as everybody else. Davis has taken 29 less shots then there top guy Doron Lamb so to say 4th/5th is not exactly accurate. Sullinger is the 2nd/3rd option guy as you will notice Buford takes a great amount of shots for OSU but thats ok considering you have someone like Sullinger out on the floor gonig for the board.

Sullinger has moved up a bit in my book as I noticed he can shoot the 3 ball but I'm still skeptical about the below the rim play he has going for him.

[Chef]

Swedd, you know that can be a bit misleading right there. Just PPG doesnt tell the whole story.

Barnes 18.0 PPG / 27.5 mins
Davis 13.9 PPG / 31.0 mins
Lamb 17.9 PPG / 37.0 mins
Sullinger 17.5 / 29.6 mins

Both Lamb and Barnes are clear 1st options of there teams but you can see that Lamb is on the court about 10 more mins to get the same amount of point production. Lamb does have better handles on the court but does that automatically translate to better scorer.

As far as the other two, Davis and Sullinger, they have a fairly even distribution amongst their team in shots. Davis takes roughly the same amount of shots as everybody else. Davis has taken 29 less shots then there top guy Doron Lamb so to say 4th/5th is not exactly accurate. Sullinger is the 2nd/3rd option guy as you will notice Buford takes a great amount of shots for OSU but thats ok considering you have someone like Sullinger out on the floor gonig for the board.

Sullinger has moved up a bit in my book as I noticed he can shoot the 3 ball but I'm still skeptical about the below the rim play he has going for him.

also have to factor in cast.
barnes has 4 other dangerous players on the court, taking pressure off of him. lamb is by himself.

[Pepperz]

also have to factor in cast.
barnes has 4 other dangerous players on the court, taking pressure off of him. lamb is by himself.

Thats a two way argument....

-Better cast, less pressure, but also less shot attempts. Need that ball to go around since he has a few more dangerous weapons around him.
-Inferior cast, more pressure, but also more shot attempts. If you dont have that many dangerous weapons around you, you should take more shots compared to everybody else.

The thing is they take roughly the same amount of shot attempts but yet Barnes is criticize for not having the "Killer Instinct" when Lamb is in a better position to take over a team. If we are going to criticize players, lets be fair about this.

[adam187]

^^^ how many of Davis' shots are tip in attempts off offensive rebounds? could be something worth looking at.

anyways, this team ranks last in points scored and offensive efficiency, so yes we need offense, but the team also ranks second/third to last in points allowed and defensive efficiency and i bet we'd be last if we weren't constantly getting blown out, so it's not like we're some defensive stalwart. good defense leads to easier opportunities on offense.

in my mind, davis seems like the clear cut #1, last i checked he was anchoring the best team in the country as an 18 year old while putting up historic numbers on the defensive end. in my opinion, he has very good offensive rebounding abilities (something we desperately need) and good intangibles. i am hoping we are lucky enough to get the #1 pick and grab him, he has definitely swayed me.

[polarcat]

As much as we need scoring, I don't view Davis as a non-offensive threat. Will he drop 20ppg as a rookie or 2nd year guy? Probably not. However, with patience, I feel like he will increase this category. It's not like he's got stone hands and no offensive mentality.... the kid used to be a guard and he handles the ball with a different mentality that most big men have. Once his mind and muscles catch up to his height and the approach against big men, I think his PPG will go up as well. Honestly, he reminds me of a less physically matured Alonzo Mourning in the way he is a beast in the paint, swats the ball like it's his job (which it is), and is a ballhwawk on the glass. I did a little research on one of Charlotte's greatest draft selections, and lightning might strike twice 20 years later.

As freshman here are the numbers:

Mourning: 6'10'' 13.2ppg 7.3 rpg 169 blocks on the season
Davis: 6'10" 13.9ppg 9.7 rpg 131 blocks thru 27 games (with anywhere from 6-11 games left in his season)

Mourning increased his stats steadily at Georgetown, but didn't turn beast mode on with an all-around polished game until his 4th season for the Hoyas. That's when his numbers jumped to 21.3ppg, 10.7 rpg, and 5 blocks per game. Let's see Anthony Davis 3 years from now, and I'm pretty sure we will see at least 15ppg inside which, if he maintains his other areas of expertise, will make him a dominant franchise force for us next to Biyombo. Offensive putbacks, lobs and alley-oops, as well as the infamous and-1 are all high percentage shots that both Davis and Biyombo can excel at. Yes we need a dynamic scoring wing at the 3, but if you look at Henderson and Kemba, they are our scorers for now. We have 2 holes on our team right now....a score-first SF and a PF that can help anchor down low with Biyombo. We can't fill both needs with one pick, so to think of passing on Davis because he doesn't provide enough offense at 18 years old is not wise thinking. If you were to give the other 29 GM's our roster and the choice of Davis, Barnes, Sullinger, Lamb, MKG, Drummond or Robinson, I'm pretty confident that almost all would select Davis right now.

[SWedd523]

Freshman Stats since 1998

Notables
Kris Humphries................................ 21 points (44.4), 10 rebounds, 1 block
Tyler Hansbrough............................ 19 points (57.0), 8 rebounds, 1 block
Kevin Love...................................... 18 points (55.9), 11 rebounds, 1 block
Greg Oden...................................... 16 points (61.6), 10 rebounds, 3 blocks
Chris Bosh...................................... 16 points (56.0), 9 rebounds, 2 blocks

Paul Millsap..................................... 16 points (58.7), 13 rebounds, 2 blocks
DeMarcus Cousins........................... 15 points (55.8.), 10 rebounds, 2 blocks
Blake Griffin..................................... 15 points (56.8.), 9 rebounds, 1 block
Carlos Boozer.................................. 13 points (61.4), 6 rebounds, 1 block
Greg Monroe.................................... 13 points (57.2), 7 rebounds, 2 blocks

Brook Lopez..................................... 13 points (49.6), 6 rebounds, 2 blocks
Andrew Bogut.................................. 13 points (57.7), 10 rebounds, 1 block
Tyrus Thomas................................... 12 points (60.8.), 9 rebounds, 3 blocks
Zach Randolph................................. 11 points (58.7), 7 rebounds, 1 block
LaMarcus Aldridge............................ 10 points (66.3), 6 rebounds, 2 blocks


Bobcats
Emeka Okafor.................................. 8 points (59.0), 9 rebounds, 4 blocks
DJ White.......................................... 13 points (57.2), 5 rebounds, 2 blocks
Byron Mullens.................................. 9 points (63.8.), 5 rebounds, 1 block

Current Prospects
Jared Sullinger................................... 17 points (54.1), 10 rebounds, 1 block
Anthony Davis.................................... 14 points (65.5), 10 rebounds, 5 blocks
Perry Jones........................................ 14 points (54.9), 7 rebounds, 1 block
Andre Drummond............................... 10 points (53.0), 8 rebounds, 3 blocks

[Mustachio]

Anyone watching the Mississippi State / Kentucky game? We're supposed to spend a first round pick on that guy?

Just the first half. Lets see how he responds.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Anyone watching the Mississippi State / Kentucky game? We're supposed to spend a first round pick on that guy?

Just the first half. Lets see how he responds.

If he responds with the worst half in basketball history, YES, let's still spend a #1 pick on that guy.

[SWedd523]

I also suggest watching Arnett Moultrie. He's been getting a lot of good press over the past few weeks

[Veteran_Picksetter]

^^^ how many of Davis' shots are tip in attempts off offensive rebounds? could be something worth looking at.

anyways, this team ranks last in points scored and offensive efficiency, so yes we need offense, but the team also ranks second/third to last in points allowed and defensive efficiency and i bet we'd be last if we weren't constantly getting blown out, so it's not like we're some defensive stalwart. good defense leads to easier opportunities on offense.

in my mind, davis seems like the clear cut #1, last i checked he was anchoring the best team in the country as an 18 year old while putting up historic numbers on the defensive end. in my opinion, he has very good offensive rebounding abilities (something we desperately need) and good intangibles. i am hoping we are lucky enough to get the #1 pick and grab him, he has definitely swayed me.

Couldn't agree more. And I grew up a UNC fan. As I mentioned earlier, the last I checked our opponent FG% defense was very poor despite being a good shotblocking team. Throw in a historic-level shotblocker and that should improve....

[Mustachio]

If he responds with the worst half in basketball history, YES, let's still spend a #1 pick on that guy.

I want to I do. But after watching the last two games I am actually hoping that we get the Ol' Bobcat Luck at lottery night and end up with the number 2 pick instead of 1. It's not that I don't see the potential, its that all I really see is potential. I don't think he's that sure of a thing in the NBA.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

As much as we need scoring, I don't view Davis as a non-offensive threat. Will he drop 20ppg as a rookie or 2nd year guy? Probably not. However, with patience, I feel like he will increase this category. It's not like he's got stone hands and no offensive mentality.... the kid used to be a guard and he handles the ball with a different mentality that most big men have. Once his mind and muscles catch up to his height and the approach against big men, I think his PPG will go up as well. Honestly, he reminds me of a less physically matured Alonzo Mourning in the way he is a beast in the paint, swats the ball like it's his job (which it is), and is a ballhwawk on the glass. I did a little research on one of Charlotte's greatest draft selections, and lightning might strike twice 20 years later.

As freshman here are the numbers:

Mourning: 6'10'' 13.2ppg 7.3 rpg 169 blocks on the season
Davis: 6'10" 13.9ppg 9.7 rpg 131 blocks thru 27 games (with anywhere from 6-11 games left in his season)

Mourning increased his stats steadily at Georgetown, but didn't turn beast mode on with an all-around polished game until his 4th season for the Hoyas. That's when his numbers jumped to 21.3ppg, 10.7 rpg, and 5 blocks per game. Let's see Anthony Davis 3 years from now, and I'm pretty sure we will see at least 15ppg inside which, if he maintains his other areas of expertise, will make him a dominant franchise force for us next to Biyombo. Offensive putbacks, lobs and alley-oops, as well as the infamous and-1 are all high percentage shots that both Davis and Biyombo can excel at. Yes we need a dynamic scoring wing at the 3, but if you look at Henderson and Kemba, they are our scorers for now. We have 2 holes on our team right now....a score-first SF and a PF that can help anchor down low with Biyombo. We can't fill both needs with one pick, so to think of passing on Davis because he doesn't provide enough offense at 18 years old is not wise thinking. If you were to give the other 29 GM's our roster and the choice of Davis, Barnes, Sullinger, Lamb, MKG, Drummond or Robinson, I'm pretty confident that almost all would select Davis right now.

I heartily agree with most of that. However, I don't see that we specifically need a PF all that much. I'd be more content with a massive, offensively-skilled "Center" next to Biyombo, but no elite prospect fits that mold. Eventually Biyombo and Davis would be defensively interchangeable against MOST nba big men. Look out in 3 to 4 years with those 2.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

I want to I do. But after watching the last two games I am actually hoping that we get the Ol' Bobcat Luck at lottery night and end up with the number 2 pick instead of 1. It's not that I don't see the potential, its that all I really see is potential. I don't think he's that sure of a thing in the NBA.

Maybe he's had some crappy games lately but the numbers don't lie.

A J.J. Redick can be a great scorer in college, but just a role player in the pros. However, collegiate shotblocking and rebounding productivity translates well to the NBA. It demonstrates superior manliness/athleticism/size, and usually desire.

The thing I love about Davis is how much surface area he is able to cover, not only horizontally, but obviously vertically.

[Mustachio]

Maybe he's had some crappy games lately but the numbers don't lie.

A J.J. Redick can be a great scorer in college, but just a role player in the pros. However, collegiate shotblocking and rebounding productivity translates well to the NBA. It demonstrates superior manliness/athleticism/size, and usually desire.

The thing I love about Davis is how much surface area he is able to cover, not only horizontally, but obviously vertically.

He is showing up now. thats all i really wanted to see...him changing a game and hes doing that in the final minutes of htis one. he does cover a lot of ground, but everyone expects him to gain mass and muscle once he goes pro ( i don't see that happening his frame is skinny) will he be able to cover the same ground with the added bulk he will need to play in the NBA?

[Veteran_Picksetter]

He is showing up now. thats all i really wanted to see...him changing a game and hes doing that in the final minutes of htis one. he does cover a lot of ground, but everyone expects him to gain mass and muscle once he goes pro ( i don't see that happening his frame is skinny) will he be able to cover the same ground with the added bulk he will need to play in the NBA?

Thank you. You raise good questions here. My argument:

He has very broad shoulders. Therefore he has a greater surface area of chest and lat muscles. When they DO start to bulge a little bit, they will add more weight than someone with Tyrus's very narrow-shouldered frame with less muscular surface area to work with.

There might be some loss of mobility when he ages and adds weight, but he can afford that loss of mobility. He needs to be near the rim, among the brutes.

I have faith. A lot of skinny freshmen grow up to be "real men" in the nba.

[Plowright]

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/NBA-Draft-Prospect-of-the-Week-Anthony-Davis-3853

EVERYONE should read this. If i have learnt one thing its that Draft Express is the number 1 place for info on a pro

[Mustachio]

One thing that no one has mentioned yet, but i feel it needs to be brought up... Davis has a god awful Uni-Brow. Are we supposed to just accept this?

[Pepperz]

Its not only accepted, its embraced. You fear the brow. It brings terror to peoples nightmares.

[anton273]

I'll grow one if we get him!!

[polarcat]

I would definitely embrace it like Morrison's porn 'stache, but I'm surprised nobody in his inner circle has given him a gift card to get that thing ripped off. You're about to be the #1 pick and walk across the stage in primetime with a Bobcats hat on..... get your game on homie. Endorsements, lights, cameras, etc.... someone needs to sort that monster out and donate it to locks of love. However, if he keeps it, I will rock a fake unibrow to games like it was my job....haha.

[GoBobs]

his line vs vandy today 28 pts 10-11 fg 8-9 ft 11 reb 4 offensive 6 blks 2 stls 2 pfs 1 turnover

[Mustachio]

his line vs vandy today 28 pts 10-11 fg 8-9 ft 11 reb 4 offensive 6 blks 2 stls 2 pfs 1 turnover


yeah if he does that for the Bobcats I too will grow a unibrow to match my Adam Morrison stache i refuse to shave. may even change my name to MustachioBrow.

[SWedd523]

I would definitely embrace it like Morrison's porn 'stache, but I'm surprised nobody in his inner circle has given him a gift card to get that thing ripped off. You're about to be the #1 pick and walk across the stage in primetime with a Bobcats hat on..... get your game on homie. Endorsements, lights, cameras, etc.... someone needs to sort that monster out and donate it to locks of love. However, if he keeps it, I will rock a fake unibrow to games like it was my job....haha.

He knows about it and embraces it. I saw a game earlier this year where his family was in the stands holding up "Fear the Brow" posters

[polarcat]

his line vs vandy today 28 pts 10-11 fg 8-9 ft 11 reb 4 offensive 6 blks 2 stls 2 pfs 1 turnover

Do want. Starting to flip the switch to beast mode. He would look so amazing next to Biyombo.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Do want. Starting to flip the switch to beast mode. He would look so amazing next to Biyombo.

I saw some of that Vandy game. I'm pretty sure he nailed a long 3 after a whistle blew as well. Also, he blocked the shot of Vanderbilt's center while flat-footed. It was amazing.

[Mustachio]

He knows about it and embraces it. I saw a game earlier this year where his family was in the stands holding up "Fear the Brow" posters


haha fair enough. forget the overplayed Twin Towers tag line. BisBrow UniSmack

[SJackson1]

this guy looks the real deal, him and biyombo would be a great defensive line

[SJackson1]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYW5WuZt7Qo

[Mustachio]

Thanks SJackson for posting that video. Been wanting to see the proof behind the stat line.

Its like the guy went out there with the soul purpose of making me look dumb. He answered any questions I had about number 1. He showed up big in a tight game, dominated the defensive paint, played with emotion, and most of all his teammates looked for him in the clutch. I am not going gaga over the offensive display, because i think that was still an anomaly... but it shows he has the ability with work to be proficient in the NBA.

Can we all just pretend I never entertained the idea he wasn't the number one pick?

[MadBOBCATfanUK]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYW5WuZt7Qo
For me that basically highlighted all his strength's and exaggerated that, but it also showed me that his offensive game is mostly going to come off work on the offensive glass; although it was interesting to see that he could create off the dribble

[SJackson1]

he can also knock down a 15ft jumper, not on a regular basis but if he could work on it he would be immense

[BlockParty]

he can also knock down a 15ft jumper, not on a regular basis but if he could work on it he would be immense

Diop can knock down 13ft jumpers...probably is, he only shoots them from the 15ft free throw line

[Jennings]

So if we draft Davis, does he wear #23, or do you think because of MJ he chooses another number? Just something I thought about watching him tonight.

[Chef]

So if we draft Davis, does he wear #23, or do you think because of MJ he chooses another number? Just something I thought about watching him tonight.

mj doesn't want his playing career tarnished with this franchise in anyway. 23 it is.

[Chevalier au Lion]

Honestly, I see that Davis will never be a franchise player or a leader.

he is a very fine player, which will cost increase weight and muscle.
He´s a very good shoot blocker in aid, but not a great defender in "body to body" because of his thinness.

Probably he will end up being a luxury defensive complement.

In that sense, I find Robinson more complet player in the present, a physical beast and worker player who would give us points and rebounds in short-team.

Drummond and Biz aren´t compatibles. Biz is a C undersidez, he will never be a PF. So, if the get Drummond, they have to get rid of Biyombo.

If they get David, and play Davis and Biz in the court, who will be score?? Kemba??

I think if they get Robindon in the draft, and sing a SF like Batum or Wilson Chander, or CJ Miles in the last resort, we sing too a veteran PG to help Kemba, like Goran Dragic, we will have a very decent team with young players who can win matches.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Honestly, I see that Davis will never be a franchise player or a leader.

he is a very fine player, which will cost increase weight and muscle.
He´s a very good shoot blocker in aid, but not a great defender in "body to body" because of his thinness.

Probably he will end up being a luxury defensive complement.

In that sense, I find Robinson more complet player in the present, a physical beast and worker player who would give us points and rebounds in short-team.

Drummond and Biz aren´t compatibles. Biz is a C undersidez, he will never be a PF. So, if the get Drummond, they have to get rid of Biyombo.

If they get David, and play Davis and Biz in the court, who will be score?? Kemba??

I think if they get Robindon in the draft, and sing a SF like Batum or Wilson Chander, or CJ Miles in the last resort, we sing too a veteran PG to help Kemba, like Goran Dragic, we will have a very decent team with young players who can win matches.

I haven't formed an opinion on Robinson. But I can tell Davis will be a very good player. He will AT LEAST be pushing all-star status someday, barring unforeseen circumstances. You're right that he might have some difficulty at one-on-one defending initially. But the kid is a thoroughbred. He shows great production already. He moves too well, elevates too well, and has too much length to fail--barring injuries or mental breakdown. And I've no indication he has personality issues.

I think Bismack can easily be a PF. He has the physical ability to guard bigs on the perimeter well enough, and there is still room for a tradtional interior "4-man" in this league.

If we get Davis, Davis will score points by cleaning up Kemba's penetration misses. That's what he specializes in. You'd have to add a scoring wing to Henderson and Kemba. As has been stated so many times, we can't treat this like Davis is the final piece to get us over the hump. Robinson probably wouldn't be either. Davis WOULD be a huge step in the right direction.

[SWedd523]

Not a fan of Robinson

[Mustachio]

He moves too well, elevates too well, and has too much length to fail--barring injuries or mental breakdown.

I think Bismack can easily be a PF. He has the physical ability to guard bigs on the perimeter well enough, and there is still room for a tradtional interior "4-man" in this league.

If we get Davis, Davis will score points by cleaning up Kemba's penetration misses. That's what he specializes in. You'd have to add a scoring wing to Henderson and Kemba. As has been stated so many times, we can't treat this like Davis is the final piece to get us over the hump. Robinson probably wouldn't be either. Davis WOULD be a huge step in the right direction.

Ahhh I see you attended the Jay Bilas School of Drafting. "Too much length to fail". I remember Ajinca having too much length...

just kiddin though. I agree with this. Davis or Drummond can get along with Bismack. Thats not gonna be an issue. I think Bis is a center, but with two guys like Davis/Bis or Drummond/Bis... labels will not be important. We aren't good enough as a team overall to be concerned about who gets on with who. We need good players and Davis is the best available.

I will say that my heart sunk a little last night when Bismack Biyombo posted a couple photo's from the Nike Hoop Summit game where he got the triple double and vaulted himself to an NBA career. Or has he put it "The game where everything happen!" He then posted a picture of him dunking on Anthony Davis. https://twitter.com/#!/bismackbiyombo0/status/176895144392523776 Also his twitter background is another view of him getting a rebound and dunking over ... you guessed it Frank Stalone. Sorry couldn't resist. Anthony Davis. So basically the game that launched the career of Bismack Biyombo came against the player most of us are hanging our future hopes on.... and i'm not sure how I feel about that.

[adam187]

Ahhh I see you attended the Jay Bilas School of Drafting. "Too much length to fail". I remember Ajinca having too much length...

just kiddin though. I agree with this. Davis or Drummond can get along with Bismack. Thats not gonna be an issue. I think Bis is a center, but with two guys like Davis/Bis or Drummond/Bis... labels will not be important. We aren't good enough as a team overall to be concerned about who gets on with who. We need good players and Davis is the best available.

I will say that my heart sunk a little last night when Bismack Biyombo posted a couple photo's from the Nike Hoop Summit game where he got the triple double and vaulted himself to an NBA career. Or has he put it "The game where everything happen!" He then posted a picture of him dunking on Anthony Davis. https://twitter.com/#!/bismackbiyombo0/status/176895144392523776 Also his twitter background is another view of him getting a rebound and dunking over ... you guessed it Frank Stalone. Sorry couldn't resist. Anthony Davis. So basically the game that launched the career of Bismack Biyombo came against the player most of us are hanging our future hopes on.... and i'm not sure how I feel about that.

I'm more concerned about when he tweeted he was getting dinner with Diaw.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Ahhh I see you attended the Jay Bilas School of Drafting. "Too much length to fail". I remember Ajinca having too much length...

just kiddin though. I agree with this. Davis or Drummond can get along with Bismack. Thats not gonna be an issue. I think Bis is a center, but with two guys like Davis/Bis or Drummond/Bis... labels will not be important. We aren't good enough as a team overall to be concerned about who gets on with who. We need good players and Davis is the best available.

I will say that my heart sunk a little last night when Bismack Biyombo posted a couple photo's from the Nike Hoop Summit game where he got the triple double and vaulted himself to an NBA career. Or has he put it "The game where everything happen!" He then posted a picture of him dunking on Anthony Davis. https://twitter.com/#!/bismackbiyombo0/status/176895144392523776 Also his twitter background is another view of him getting a rebound and dunking over ... you guessed it Frank Stalone. Sorry couldn't resist. Anthony Davis. So basically the game that launched the career of Bismack Biyombo came against the player most of us are hanging our future hopes on.... and i'm not sure how I feel about that.

(Chuckling at first paragraph)

Now, now! Here is the full quote:

"He shows great production already. He moves too well, elevates too well, and has too much length to fail--barring injuries or mental breakdown."

The "too much to fail" part was refering to not only his length, but his elevation and mobility which were included in the same sentence--all under the context that he had demonstrated statistical productivity. I'm sorry I made you think of Jay Bilas. I don't like doing that. If you ever want a laugh, go back and listen to some of his comments in earlier drafts. He'll make you think that virtually every first round pick will be a good to great player. We know it doesn't work that way.

Ajinca brings back nightmares. Unlike Davis, he had not shown much basketball production at lower levels.

I wanted Brook Lopez and Mario Chalmers(or Ryan Anderson) once we had those picks in place. We desperately needed a "Stretch 4" and a backup PG at the time. And I just liked Lopez.

I think Ajinca was a decent straight-ahead runner and he had massive length, of course, but the guy's basketball reaction time was pretty bad. A poor anticipator. He is definitely a cautionary tale against getting too excited about wingspan.

Moving on, you're right: We can't be worried about how players fit together. A top 3 pick in this draft should take precedence over anyone we have on our current roster.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Not a fan of Robinson

What are your thoughts on him? I haven't seen much.

[Chef]

What are your thoughts on him? I haven't seen much.

tweener who can't play the 3. may be a good player but definitely not a franchise type.

[polarcat]

What are your thoughts on him? I haven't seen much.

Honestly, I think Robinson is one of those collegiate players that will have a hard go of it in the NBA. I think his situation is like Derrick Williams when he swears up and down he's a 3, but really needs to be a 4...... but way worse because of his build. If all goes well for Robinson, his ceiling could be a more athletic Charles Barkley, but a SF, he is not. I feel for the guy, because he's one of the "good kids" that deserves all the fruits of his labor. Hard worker, rough up-birnging, great head on his shoulders, etc. I'm pulling for him to succeed at the next level, just don't want us to draft him and roll the dice of our franchise on him.

[SWedd523]

What are your thoughts on him? I haven't seen much.

Poor man's Derrick Williams?


It's typically best to stay away from 3-4 tweeners

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Poor man's Derrick Williams?


It's typically best to stay away from 3-4 tweeners

Can't stand drafting 'tweeners myself.

Full disclosure: I still haven't seen Robinson play much. However....

If Robinson turns out to be 6'9" with terrific length, should he still be considered a 'tweener? He also looks rather well-built to me.

His rebounding numbers are off the charts (significantly higher than Williams as a college player), and rebounding ability translates to the next level, in my humble opinion.

Your turn.

[SWedd523]

He's listed at 6'9, but the conventional wisdom is that's a stretch. There's no denying he's a mountain of a man and has some pretty good athleticism (I wouldn't call it elite, but it's pretty good), but when I watch him I don't get that "Oh my god he's going to dominate!" like I look for.

[SWedd523]

Okay it's 2:30 and I'm being incoherent so I'll try and make it easier to word.

When I look at prospects, I have a little mental checklist that I run through in my head.


For big men:

Physical
--Is he tall?
--Is he quick and/or fast?
--Is he a beast?
--Is he long?
--Is he bouncy?

Technical Offensive
--Does he have post moves?
--Is he a good passer?
--How far out is his range?
--Can he put the ball on the floor?
--Does he command attention?

Technical Defensive
--Is he overaggressive?
--Does he hedge on the p&r?
--Does he recover quickly (help defense)?
--Does he have a quick second jump?
--Is he versatile?

Intangibles
--Is he smart/wellspoken?
--Does he work hard?
--Does he hustle?
--Does he communicate on the floor? (screen right!... switch!... etc)
--and most of all, did he wow you?

Different things obviously hold different weight, and it's on a sliding scale so it's all relative. But by my measure, there's something about Robinson that I just don't... like

[adam187]

blake griffin measured out 6'8.5" without shoes according to draft express. you guys don't think there could be a little similarity there? a crappy blake griffin? or an AWESOME taylor griffin?

[SWedd523]

blake griffin measured out 6'8.5" without shoes according to draft express. you guys don't think there could be a little similarity there? a crappy blake griffin? or an AWESOME taylor griffin?

The first time I saw Blake as a freshman at Oklahoma, I KNEW he'd be a star. I only had to watch one game before I knew he'd be the #1 pick (and that says something considering how much hype was behind the players in the 08 draft). Then he had some health issues and decided to go back to school, and his entire sophomore year was the "Blake Griffin is #1 so who is going to be the second pick?" show.


Plus Robinson isn't nearly as bouncy as Blake was/is.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

Okay it's 2:30 and I'm being incoherent so I'll try and make it easier to word.

When I look at prospects, I have a little mental checklist that I run through in my head.


For big men:

Physical
--Is he tall?
--Is he quick and/or fast?
--Is he a beast?
--Is he long?
--Is he bouncy?

Technical Offensive
--Does he have post moves?
--Is he a good passer?
--How far out is his range?
--Can he put the ball on the floor?
--Does he command attention?

Technical Defensive
--Is he overaggressive?
--Does he hedge on the p&r?
--Does he recover quickly (help defense)?
--Does he have a quick second jump?
--Is he versatile?

Intangibles
--Is he smart/wellspoken?
--Does he work hard?
--Does he hustle?
--Does he communicate on the floor? (screen right!... switch!... etc)
--and most of all, did he wow you?

Different things obviously hold different weight, and it's on a sliding scale so it's all relative. But by my measure, there's something about Robinson that I just don't... like

Good stuff. I can really respect that. I'll try to come up with my own little checklist. Don't worry. It's probably a lot shorter.

[Veteran_Picksetter]

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/03/10/3088677/davis-is-more-than-ultimate-shot.html#storylink=omni_popular

"And Saturday, for the third straight game, he did something college big men almost never do: He swished a 3-pointer with confidence and touch off a pick-and-pop play that is far more NBA than college-like."

Okay, that's just scary......Please God let us have him.......

[MadBOBCATfanUK]

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/03/10/3088677/davis-is-more-than-ultimate-shot.html#storylink=omni_popular

"And Saturday, for the third straight game, he did something college big men almost never do: He swished a 3-pointer with confidence and touch off a pick-and-pop play that is far more NBA than college-like."

Okay, that's just scary......Please God let us have him.......

I read that article earlier but then i read the 25% chance at no1 pick article and it's just depressing how we probably won't get him

[Mustachio]

Watching the first Kentucky game in the big dance. Its to the point now, that we HAVE to get this guy. Anything else is a disappointment.