The Official Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Thread

[SWedd523]

This is the place to discuss Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. Post up your Youtube videos, news articles, and fantasies!

[SWedd523]

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is a 6'7" Freshman SF from the University of Kentucky

http://i.usatoday.net/communitymanager/_photos/campus-rivalry/2012/03/22/mkgx-inset-community.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOzb2-WghjY

[Bosnian-Bobcats-Fan]

If we can't get Anthony Davis i say we take MKG...i know he doesnt have a great jumper or much of an offensive game...but this guy has all the intangables...he is a lockdown defender...great leader and has the highest motor in the NCAA...the guy hustles on every play and plays ever game like its his last and thats a player that would be perfect for us imo...and he's real young so that offensive game will continue to develop....i see him being a star

[The Milk]

He seems like a Cho kind of guy, hard worker on and off the court and clearly has a passion for the game.

[Chef]

i am so tired of hustle guys who aren't great at basketball things like shooting and an overall offensive game. don't care how good his "motor" is, i don't want him for this team. he needs a team with a ball dominant sg or pg and a high touch big man. he would phenomenal for the lakers.

[adam187]

i don't think he's as bad a shooter as you guys make him out to be, especially for his age. today he shot 1-1 on 3s and 4-4 on free throws. small sample size obviously, but he can knock em down. i think he'll be about as good a shooter as many other super athletic dudes in the league, which would be fine.

[Chevalier au Lion]

he is a great defender. but he can also score. He´s not a specific shooter like Beal, but with his size and athleticism can create dangerous situations on the perimeter and in the paint. He can be important in the transition moves. And he can help with his capacity of reboundig. As Gerald Wallace.

If we can´t pick Davis, he is my option.

[ohara831]

At this point, if we dont get Davis, MKG is my #2.

[GoBobs]

I have him at #2 as well and wouldn't even be shocked if he ends up being better then Davis at the next level.

There are several things I like about this guy. He plays great defense. He rebounds at an elite rate for a small forward. He has a great handle for someone his size. The guy is unstoppable in transition. He shoots a very high % from the free throw line already.

His best attribute though is the ability to take the ball right to the basket and get a bucket or foul. This gives you easy points and puts the other team in foul trouble.

The Gerald Wallace comparison is a good one although he is nowhere near the athlete Gerald is and much more skilled. Consider that Gerald came in to the league shooting 50% from the free throw line and didn't crack 70% until his 7th year in the league. MKG already is shooting 75% this season. The good FT% makes me feel comfortable he will improve his shooting.

[Plowright]

I have him at #2 as well and wouldn't even be shocked if he ends up being better then Davis at the next level.

There are several things I like about this guy. He plays great defense. He rebounds at an elite rate for a small forward. He has a great handle for someone his size. The guy is unstoppable in transition. He shoots a very high % from the free throw line already.

His best attribute though is the ability to take the ball right to the basket and get a bucket or foul. This gives you easy points and puts the other team in foul trouble.

The Gerald Wallace comparison is a good one although he is nowhere near the athlete Gerald is and much more skilled. Consider that Gerald came in to the league shooting 50% from the free throw line and didn't crack 70% until his 7th year in the league. MKG already is shooting 75% this season. The good FT% makes me feel comfortable he will improve his shooting.

He can do everything but shoot. Sounds like someone else i now. Terrance Williams... I know my point is void as they are totally different, but at the end of the day hes gotta become a better shooter and scoring if hes going to play the wing position

[MadBOBCATfanUK]

He can do everything but shoot. Sounds like someone else i now. Terrance Williams... I know my point is void as they are totally different, but at the end of the day hes gotta become a better shooter and scoring if hes going to play the wing position
if anything Terrence Williams was better than MKG because he could facilitate an offense pretty well, I don't see MKG ever becoming a no1 option I see him more as a glue guy a la Luol Deng

[SWedd523]

I really don't think I'd say he has a "great" handle for his size. By that same token, I dont think he's going to measure out as tall as some people expect.

[dav7z]

I really don't think I'd say he has a "great" handle for his size. By that same token, I dont think he's going to measure out as tall as some people expect.

Agreeded im thinking hes about 6.6 . But is much better on offence than given cradit for . His jumper has nice form and he hits his fts well . Being on a Kentucky team kinda hurts his numbers . And i really think he has a much better t0uch than most of you think. His stock might go to #1 after workouts start . Workouts should give us a much better idea of how good he is on offence.

[Pepperz]

MKD has been growing on me more and more each day.

[Plowright]

Why Pepperz? just curious as i know that sometimes a prospect will grow on me for no reason, I wont read anything or see him play but he just...does lol

[ohara831]

So many people here practically worshipped Crash for the type of player he was for Charlotte. When people compare Kidd-Gilchrist to an NBA player, it is Crash. So there is an automatic endearing of him to Bobcat fans. Now Crash took a few years to become the player we loved, but then he became accident/injury prone, got a bit older, and was traded. Kidd-Gilchrist has a higher ceiling in my estimation. Younger, less expensive, not injury prone and someone who can become Crash Plus for Charlotte. So if we dont get Davis, I'd be very happy with MKG.

[GoBobs]

I am really liking MKG's toughness. He takes the ball to the rim over and over and doesn't seem to mind the contact. If a defender plays him rough he plays rough back, but never stops going to the rim. This guy would be Larry Browns wet dream. Oh yeah, plus he makes his free throws.

He is an excellent at rebounding for his position. His foot speed on defense is so good he usually guards the opposing teams pg. If he develops a shot. If he can make the type of improvement Hendo has made, this kid is going to be great.

[Pepperz]

Why Pepperz? just curious as i know that sometimes a prospect will grow on me for no reason, I wont read anything or see him play but he just...does lol

At the beginning of the year, I watch some but not alot cuz I didnt want to buy into the hype of UK. And when I do watch him, he showed glimpse here and there on the quality of player he is but I just thought it was because of who he was around. Plus his offensive game was not up to par and his height of 6'6 concerned me if he were to play sf. Durant is a sf and hes 6'10 so i would like him to hold his position down. As the season went on, he slowly went up my board but nothing significance. It was mostly around the March Madness when he started to take off. I believe if you cant preform in the big dance, it will take a hit to your stock to me. Look at Barnes this year. MKG always brought something to the table every game and it slowly won me over as a top 5 pick.

[Keetch]

If we don't get the first pick and end up taking MKG, I'd still be pretty happy. I just get the feeling that he'll get a jump shot in the NBA and become very very good. Thats about all he needs to take off.

[Chef]

at this point he is a cross between a very young crash and tony allen. not for me with a top 3 pick.

[polarcat]

I agree with the sentiment that I don't think we've seen the full range of upside with the UK players since that team is so deep and talented. I think at the NBA level, we'll see more offensive polish from Davis, more of a floor general with confidence from Teague, and I think MKG's got more offensive ability that hasn't been shown yet. I agree that MKG is a more talented version of Crash when coming out of college and his ceiling is greater than what Crash brought. MKG's b-ball IQ is slightly better and has more control over his game than Wallace. IMO, it's as if you took Wallace at age 23 or 24, , smoothed down his recklessness, added a jumper and still had a little bit of room to grow into as well, and MKG won't be 19 years old until September of this year. Not a bad consolation prize if you miss out on the Davis jackpot. I've definitely warmed up to him as the year has progressed.

[dnbman]

For those that remember Pippen at his peak, is MKG's upside comparable to a Pippen type player?

He developed that outside stroke a few years into his career, but was a pretty savy defender and rebounder from his first days in the league.

[WAM9]

For those that remember Pippen at his peak, is MKG's upside comparable to a Pippen type player?

He developed that outside stroke a few years into his career, but was a pretty savy defender and rebounder from his first days in the league.

Maybe...that is a stretch of a comparison but I definitely see where you are going.

At the end of the day, if we don't get the 1 pick, I guess MKG is certainly in the running for the #2 pick. He would certainly help our ball club immensely.

[SWedd523]

For those that remember Pippen at his peak, is MKG's upside comparable to a Pippen type player?

He developed that outside stroke a few years into his career, but was a pretty savy defender and rebounder from his first days in the league.
Absolutely............. not going to happen.


Pippen is probably a top 25 player ever. He's taller, longer, faster, and more athletic. I can see where you get the similarities, but Gilchrist is like a homeless man's Pippen

[dnbman]

Absolutely............. not going to happen.


Pippen is probably a top 25 player ever. He's taller, longer, faster, and more athletic. I can see where you get the similarities, but Gilchrist is like a homeless man's Pippen
I haven't watched MKG enough to make a comparison. I'm just trying to establish an upside. Is that Gerald Wallace?

[SWedd523]

I can see him maxing out around the Gerald Wallace or Tony Allen level. Not that it's a bad thing, one was an all-star and the other is one of the best defenders in the league and an instrumental piece of a really good team

[Bosnian-Bobcats-Fan]

I can see him maxing out around the Gerald Wallace or Tony Allen level. Not that it's a bad thing, one was an all-star and the other is one of the best defenders in the league and an instrumental piece of a really good team
so who would you take if we had the 2nd pick? beal? im leaning towards that right now
this was a pretty cool vid http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPTZCjxgM-4

[SWedd523]

Gilchrist is still in the running for that second pick. I don't think Wallace or Allen are bad ceilings by any stretch.

I can't really decide who I want for the two if we had that. I was one of the very few people high on Beal since the start of the season, I came around on Lamb after the first week or so, and I'm still not big on Robinson.

[Chef]

Absolutely............. not going to happen.


Pippen is probably a top 25 player ever. He's taller, longer, faster, and more athletic. I can see where you get the similarities, but Gilchrist is like a homeless man's Pippen

thank you for this post. i was about to go all crusty old man on this post.

[Chef]

Gilchrist is still in the running for that second pick. I don't think Wallace or Allen are bad ceilings by any stretch.

I can't really decide who I want for the two if we had that. I was one of the very few people high on Beal since the start of the season, I came around on Lamb after the first week or so, and I'm still not big on Robinson.

has to be beal or drummond or trade down for 2 picks. can't see any other option. ideally we could move down and still get drummond or multrie plus perry jones, lillard or lamb.

[dnbman]

thank you for this post. i was about to go all crusty old man on this post.

Chef, I assure you this was a complete lack of knowledge about MKG and not a lack of knowledge on Pippen. I'm just wondering what to expect from the kid if he's a top 3 pick.

[SJackson1]

whoever drafts him will have to give him time to develop as an NBA player, there is no question that he has bags of talent

[akaseinfeld]

Chad Ford ‏@chadfordinsider
Watching @MikeGillie14 (https://twitter.com/#!/MikeGillie14) drain jump shot after jump shot today. If he can hit that consistently in the NBA ... Wow.

[Plowright]

I was about to make the same post akaseinfield! For me it is between Robinson and MKG and it is really close right now. I think we will have a lot better idea after we get them both in for workouts and maybe even call them back for 2nd work outs. Why wouldnt they want to do that? They are both desperate to be the number 2 pick

[SJackson1]

we will learn alot more in the draft combine and the workouts

[SuperKemba]

I have to say he does have an incredible work ethic. Not only that but he's a young player with the ability to do many different things on the court. With his desire, passion and versatility I can definitely see him becoming a an all star caliber player in the future. He just seems like the kind of guy that would be in the gym all the time continually working on his game. He has a nice base to build on top of so that's another thing to like about him.

[SuperKemba]

I'ma go ahead and say it! I think we should go ahead and take MKG at #2. Also we have to get another quality player along with him from this draft with our second pick.

[bes628]

Chad Ford ‏@chadfordinsider
Watching @MikeGillie14 (https://twitter.com/#!/MikeGillie14) drain jump shot after jump shot today. If he can hit that consistently in the NBA ... Wow.

Shit just got real.

[SJackson1]

going to be tough to choose the No 2 pick this year, so many great players

[SWedd523]

Thread stickied

[SJackson1]

who would benefit the Bobcats more, Robinson or Gilchrist ?

[ziggy]

Anyone else noticing a slight hesitation at the top of his jumper?

Or is it just me?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0U9qRFbldw

[SJackson1]

Anyone else noticing a slight hesitation at the top of his jumper?

Or is it just me?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0U9qRFbldw

yes he has defo got a hitch in his jump shot. He still knocked his jumpers down last season

[SWedd523]

”slight”? ”hesitation”?


His jumper looks worse than Kwame's FT shot

[ziggy]

”slight”? ”hesitation”?


His jumper looks worse than Kwame's FT shot

I was being kind :biggrin:

Plus, I'm not as keen of a student of mechanics as some of your guys are. When a player enters the NBA with a hitch in his shot like that, what are the odds that he is able to change years of muscle memory and clean it up?

[SJackson1]

his ball control is very good for such a young player and he finishes well in the paint.

[BrotherDave]

yes he has defo got a hitch in his jump shot. He still knocked his wide open 2 pt jumpers down last season thanks to being on a stacked UK team.

FTFY. ;)

I'm sure it's been said before but the dude shot ~25% from college 3. That's abysmal. Even Gerald Wallace would cringe at that.

Something just irks me about MKG. He plays like a really undersized PF with a good handle. That double pump shot of his quite fugly.

[SWedd523]

I was being kind :biggrin:

Plus, I'm not as keen of a student of mechanics as some of your guys are. When a player enters the NBA with a hitch in his shot like that, what are the odds that he is able to change years of muscle memory and clean it up?
I'm a sucker for beautiful jumpers. I spent long hours of my youth at basketball camps and whatnot working on my jumper so I'm always a fan of guys who have great form. Guys like Ray Allen and Eric Gordon have been favorite players of mine and a lot of it has to do with how pure they shoot.

If his form doesn't improve, he'll have difficulty breaking his man down off the dribble and pulling up in traffic. Not only does his shot have a hitch, it comes with a slow release. So unless he shoots it very high (like Barnes), he'll be relegated to open looks from the perimeter. Fortunately, he's good enough to beat his man off the dribble and get the rack, crashes the offensive boards well, and is very good in transition, so he shouldn't be useless on the offensive side of the floor.

The key for him will be repetition. Bad form won't necessarily prevent him from making open shots as long as he devotes time in practice to focus on his muscle memory

[SJackson1]

he will definatley be a top 4 pick, my heartrate will be through the roof when David Stern is reading out who we select

[akaseinfeld]

For those with ESPN insider:

Article about MKG

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/blog/_/name/nba_draft/id/8006514/nba-draft-michael-kidd-gilchrist-does-not-wow-scouts-wins

[DashGlobal]

I'm a sucker for beautiful jumpers. I spent long hours of my youth at basketball camps and whatnot working on my jumper so I'm always a fan of guys who have great form. Guys like Ray Allen and Eric Gordon have been favorite players of mine and a lot of it has to do with how pure they shoot.

If his form doesn't improve, he'll have difficulty breaking his man down off the dribble and pulling up in traffic. Not only does his shot have a hitch, it comes with a slow release. So unless he shoots it very high (like Barnes), he'll be relegated to open looks from the perimeter. Fortunately, he's good enough to beat his man off the dribble and get the rack, crashes the offensive boards well, and is very good in transition, so he shouldn't be useless on the offensive side of the floor.

The key for him will be repetition. Bad form won't necessarily prevent him from making open shots as long as he devotes time in practice to focus on his muscle memory

It will be difficult for MKG to beat his man off the dribble if the defender sags off him and plays him for the drive.

[SJackson1]

alot of debate on wheater we should take the safe pick or maybe risk MKG or Beal, i think we should take the safe pick in TRob becasue the guy has proved last season that he has an all round game which will help us for many years to come

[Swifft22]

Im all for T-ROB..if we dont pick him it should be MKG..Rember Lebron couldnt shoot when he entered the league...Neither could Tony Parker, Derek Rose, hell even MJ wasnt known as a 3point specialist ..MKG is not undersized at SF + he can guard positions 1-4...at only 18 i think his a safe pick also

[Plowright]

Yeah but its not jsut that MKG doesnt shoot well, its his mechanics are pretty bad...

[Swifft22]

Yeah but its not jsut that MKG doesnt shoot well, its his mechanics are pretty bad...
Yea he's got a hitch..i see him as more of a defensive specialist than a guy who can get you 25..

[Plowright]

Yeah I agree, bit like GW I reckon, will be great in transition may eventually learn to shoot

[Frosty06306]

For those with ESPN insider:

Article about MKG

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/blog/_/name/nba_draft/id/8006514/nba-draft-michael-kidd-gilchrist-does-not-wow-scouts-wins
Anyway you could give us a synopsis of this article? I really like MKG and think he should be our pick if we stay at 2. And if not I'm equally happy with T-Rob.

[Jerp]

Anyway you could give us a synopsis of this article? I really like MKG and think he should be our pick if we stay at 2. And if not I'm equally happy with T-Rob.

Talked about intangibles, doesn't fit a lot of labels given to other players like scorer since he won't wow with 3 pt %, but he's a winner and a leader with a huge work ethic thats constantly trying to get better every minute of every day, scouts love him and are literally begging their GM to get him anyway possible. He doesn't like to lose, so coming here wouldn't be his first option. Talked about he fit great with the Cavs and was a former HS teammate of Irving. Also mentioned Dan Gilbert and LeBron.

[Mustachio]

Good call Ziggy. This guy shoots basketball like Charles Barkley swings a golf club. He is on my DO NOT WANT list. I'd take Moe Harkless at 2 before I'd take MKG.

I don't understand the love for this kid at all.

Saying he's a winner? .... So is anyone that played for Kentucky last year. His team was one of the all time great college teams, and he was a part of it, but a lot of people will look good playing beside Davis who alters the game on every play. I've said it a hundred times already but this guy is Corey Brewer 2.0. CB was a "winner" in college as well.

Harkless is already further along on the offensive end at the same age. You can see my love for Harkless in other threads but I want to run their college stats side by side in this thread.

MKG
PPG - 11.9
FG % - 49%
3pt% - 25%
APG - 1.9
RPG - 7.4
Steals - 1
Blocks -.9
TO - 2.2

Harkless
PPG - 15.5
FG% - 45%
3pt% -21.5%
APG - 1.5
RPG - 8.6
Steals - 1.6
Blocks - 1.4
TO - 2.5

As you can see, Moe is better in almost every single category, yet played on a much worse cast of talent, with a coach who missed most of the year due to illness. Moe spent the whole year forced to play out of position at PF in the Big East and still had better numbers. They are the same age, but Harkless is taller, I think he will have a bigger span and reach. Both are extremely athletic, but I would say that Moe is more fluid and effortless.

I just don't get it, someone tell me what I'm missing here. why would you take MKG at 2 when you can have Moe later if you want a SF?

[SJackson1]

i think we should take TRob at the No 2 pick and then trade a SF or get one for the 31st pick

[DashGlobal]

i think we should take TRob at the No 2 pick and then trade a SF or get one for the 31st pick

There will be no SF worth taking with the 31st pick.

You want a SF you better get a pick in the top 21.

[SJackson1]

There will be no SF worth taking with the 31st pick.

You want a SF you better get a pick in the top 21.

PF is the priority in my opinion and then a SF

[SJackson1]

he his a solid rebounder and will get more boards as he gets older, alot of comparisons to Wallace and i can see why.

[SJackson1]

i think Henderson and MKG would be great wing players for us becasue they can both create on the dribble and both attack the basket. They are also good defenders which is what we need

[SJackson1]

he's had an interview with Bobcats media today and he said that he would like to be drafted No 2 to play with Kemba

[dnbman]

he's had an interview with Bobcats media today and he said that he would like to be drafted No 2 to play with Kemba

While we could do better, I really think Kemba, Hendo, and MKJ could be a nice running group. Granted, you need all three of those guys to improve their shooting, especially Kemba from outside. But those guys could constantly be attacking and playing in transition as long as we could keep D's from clogging up the middle.

[spectre]

i think Henderson and MKG would be great wing players for us becasue they can both create on the dribble and both attack the basket. They are also good defenders which is what we need

None of them can shoot outside for shit though.

[SWedd523]

he's had an interview with Bobcats media today and he said that he would like to be drafted No 2 to play with Kemba
got a link?

[DashGlobal]

i think Henderson and MKG would be great wing players for us becasue they can both create on the dribble and both attack the basket. They are also good defenders which is what we need

Um when did Henderson get a tight handle and shot creating ability? Last I check he was primarily a mid range jump shooter that was ran off screens.

Him and MKG would be absolutely terrible together! Cant imagine having our SG and SF BOTH shooting 20% from 3! Hell no!

[Plowright]

There is no link yet, just on twitter. He said he wanted to play with Kemba as he is a "beast" he also said he will have to cry at night when it comes to handling the losses lol

[SWedd523]

post the twitter link

[Plowright]

Rick Bonnell @rick_bonnell

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist says he'd love to play with #Bobcats' Kemba Walker, who he describes as a "monster.''
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Reply Retweet Favorite

[SWedd523]

Rick Bonnell @rick_bonnell

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist says he'd love to play with #Bobcats' Kemba Walker, who he describes as a "monster.''
Expand
Reply Retweet Favorite
Somebody please retweet that to Chad Ford's dumb ass

[Mustachio]

For everyone that is adamant about drafting MKG with the #2. Can you tell me why we shouldn't take Moe Harkless, or Barnes at #2 instead?

[WAM9]

For everyone that is adamant about drafting MKG with the #2. Can you tell me why we shouldn't take Moe Harkless, or Barnes at #2 instead?

Very astute question...

[Plowright]

They cannot guard positions 1-4 they are not as good in transitition, they are not leaders, both are quite passive. MKG has better ball handling that both. MKG is more athletic than Barnes, maybe not Harkless but we will see after the combine. But thats my short answer can't be bothered to go into detail

[DashGlobal]

They cannot guard positions 1-4 they are not as good in transitition, they are not leaders, both are quite passive. MKG has better ball handling that both. MKG is more athletic than Barnes, maybe not Harkless but we will see after the combine. But thats my short answer can't be bothered to go into detail

Im sorry but Harkless is not passive. Dude averaged 8 boards per and took over games at St. Johns and was the leader of that team as a frosh.

Also im not sure about him having better ball handling skills...

Moe is def more athletic and a better scorer.

[Mustachio]

They cannot guard positions 1-4 they are not as good in transitition, they are not leaders, both are quite passive. MKG has better ball handling that both. MKG is more athletic than Barnes, maybe not Harkless but we will see after the combine. But thats my short answer can't be bothered to go into detail

Harkless played PF most of last season, he is taller and longer so he can guard any position. As far as his transition play, Harkless is excellent. Watching the Combine today and they had all the SFs (excluding MKG) doing sprints of 3 lengths of the court. Harkless finished a whole half court faster than any other player. A HALF COURT! Goes to the rim hard on transition and often times starts his own breaks with steals (avg 1.6 in college to MKG 1.0) As far as leaders go, I don't know where you get that. Harkless lead his team in scoring and rebounding as a freshman. Made a sacrifice for his team by playing out of position at PF, due to a lack of any available player and won Big East player of the year.... all this while his head coach was missing most of the season with an illness.

Moving on to Harrison Barnes. Yes he isn't as good of an athlete and yes he doesn't seem to have the drive that MKG does. But his stats and production make MKG look like an NBDL player. Barnes was a surefire bet to be the best SF in this draft, until this season when he only averaged 17.1 points a game and people started to doubt his offensive ability. Now how in the world am I supposed to believe that MKG will be better than him in the NBA when he only averaged 11 points this year? Don't tell me its because he had to share the load at Kentucky, because UNC was pretty stacked too. Both Barnes and Harkless have beautiful shots with no kinks to work out.

I want to make this clear because its starting to look like I'm writing an open love letter to Moe Harkless on this NBA Draft section of bobcatsplanet.com. I am not suggesting that we draft Moe Harkless or Harrison Barnes with the #2 pick. I am suggesting that we do not draft MKG with the #2 pick. The value just isnt there for the #2 pick. If you HAVE to have a SF, you can have Barnes at 6 and Moe at all the way to 19 for much less money and way less risk. I keep hearing these things like MKG could be the next Jordan or that his floor is Iguodala, yet no one can give me evidence that MKG will be that much better than Barnes or Harkless in the NBA.

I think MKG is riding the wave of hype set off by Kentuckys dominating season. A dominating season that in my opinion had more to do with Anthony Davis and Terrence Jones.

[Black]

He just had the worst interview I've ever seen during the combine. He couldn't get a thought out. I'll find video of it when it's available.

EDIT: So apparently he has a severe stutter, and I now feel like an asshole.

[ammofan]

He just had the worst interview I've ever seen during the combine. He couldn't get a thought out. I'll find video of it when it's available.

EDIT: So apparently he has a severe stutter, and I now feel like an asshole.


Yeah I forgot he had that. He shows alot of courage to do interviews like that....

I love everything MKG is about. He's a culture changer.

[SJackson1]

Yeah I forgot he had that. He shows alot of courage to do interviews like that....

I love everything MKG is about. He's a culture changer.


ive got a bit of a stutter and i know how difficult it is talking under pressure, brave lad !

[dnbman]

I loved MKG's interview on the Bobcat's site.

I thought he was thoughtful, handled the reporters well, was firm without being rude (didn't fall into the trap of saying what team he'd prefer, even if he admitted that he'd like to play with Kyrie.), and said a lot of things that I want to believe about a guy.

If he can fix that shot, he seems like a guy you really want on your roster.

[Plowright]

Sorry I have to toally disagree. Every question asked he was trying to think of his coached answer. Like when they said whats the thing people havent seen about you he was like " uhh ummmm whats.... oh yeah thats my jump shot" Everyone interviewing him could tell he was just trying to remember what his agent told him to say. I found him very very very very socially awkward, he HAS to get better with the media. His answers very poor to the questions in my opinion. I am sure he is better not in front of the media, but that really shocked me.

[dnbman]

Sorry I have to toally disagree. Every question asked he was trying to think of his coached answer. Like when they said whats the thing people havent seen about you he was like " uhh ummmm whats.... oh yeah thats my jump shot" Everyone interviewing him could tell he was just trying to remember what his agent told him to say. I found him very very very very socially awkward, he HAS to get better with the media. His answers very poor to the questions in my opinion. I am sure he is better not in front of the media, but that really shocked me.

Could be, but to me he seemed like an 18 year old just being natural, though I'm sure you're right in that he's had instruction on things to talk about.

[Plowright]

Being so highly recruited out of highschool and being around Kentucky the NCAA winners I would not think he was so nervous. It was like he was from a tiny school and had never seen the media before. This does raise a question for me if he can be a face of a franchise while being that socially awkward? I am not saying he can't be, but it certainly won't help

[dnbman]

Being so highly recruited out of highschool and being around Kentucky the NCAA winners I would not think he was so nervous. It was like he was from a tiny school and had never seen the media before. This does raise a question for me if he can be a face of a franchise while being that socially awkward? I am not saying he can't be, but it certainly won't help

Wow. I really didn't think he was THAT awkward. If you compare him to Barnes, who was serial-killer cool, then, yeah, he looked awkward. To me, he just seemed like an 18 year old kid answering questions.

He seemed to me the type of guy that doesn't try to do a lot of talking and instead shows himself on the court. That's what I want. I don't one of these entertainment types, like the Lebrons and Howards. I want some guys that are going to punch you in the teeth when you set foot on our floor. He and T-Rob both seem like that.

[SuperKemba]

Seriously I can see MKG being an All Star caliber player for us. I love his drive, passion, and work ethic. He's only 18 years old and the youngest player in the draft yet the hardest working. He also has shown the ability to improve his game year by year. If we keep the #2 pick I want MKG.

[DashGlobal]

Seriously I can see MKG being an All Star caliber player for us. I love his drive, passion, and work ethic. He's only 18 years old and the youngest player in the draft yet the hardest working. He also has shown the ability to improve his game year by year. If we keep the #2 pick I want MKG.

Cant believe people want us to draft a player #2 overall that

1) Has no elite skill (shooting, handling, shot creating ect)

2) Does not have elite athleticism

Drive, passion and work ethic are nice, but that alone doesnt warrant a number 2 pick.

[SuperKemba]

Cant believe people want us to draft a player #2 overall that

1) Has no elite skill (shooting, handling, shot creating ect)

2) Does not have elite athleticism

Drive, passion and work ethic are nice, but that alone doesnt warrant a number 2 pick.

Elite ELITE Athleticism is not everything. Besides he has more than enough to be successful in the league. I'm looking at his combination of skills and his ability to get better. There isn't a better all around player in the draft imo right now. If he improves his jumpshot (which he will) he will be an all-star caliber player. He finishes and attacks the rim as good as anybody and has the willingness and confidence to take over when his teammates need him to. I'm not expecting him to become a super star but I see an all-star player in him.

[DashGlobal]

Elite ELITE Athleticism is not everything. Besides he has more than enough to be successful in the league. I'm looking at his combination of skills and his ability to get better. There isn't a better all around player in the draft imo right now. If he improves his jumpshot (which he will) he will be an all-star caliber player. He finishes and attacks the rim as good as anybody and has the willingness and confidence to take over when his teammates need him to. I'm not expecting him to become a super star but I see an all-star player in him.

I cant see a guy (SF) becoming an all star without one of the following

1) Great shot-creating / Great scorer

2) Great handle

3) Great shot

3) Elite athleticism

[ammofan]

I cant see a guy (SF) becoming an all star without one of the following

1) Great shot-creating / Great scorer

2) Great handle

3) Great shot

3) Elite athleticism

Gerald Wallace wasnt any of those and he was an All Star

[Chef]

Gerald Wallace wasnt any of those and he was an All Star

he had elite athleticism.

[Mustachio]

Has anyone here ever seen "The Kings Speech "? MKG has that same level stutter and anxiety combo that makes public speech almost impossible. That can be fixed or improved with therapy. I am not concerned with that so much. While I do think he is highly coached I think it's probably necessary so that he doesn't unfairly collapse in the interview process. Harrison barnes interview seemed much more rehearsed and plastic than MKG like dnb said, serial killer like. Creepy.

There are several things I am concerned with on MKG however. Things like the fact that no one here can give me a good reason we should take MKG over any other SF prospect in this draft. He wasnt the most productive SF in this draft, he isn't the best size/body SF in this draft, he isn't the most athletic SF in this draft and if you ask me his work ethic isn't better than any other SF who has made it that far. What he does have on his side is a lot of hype, a broken shot, and the fact that he won a championship on a team that has 5 first round players on it. Nothing impresses me about him, just seems like another guy to me.

If we do end up drafting him second I will be happy because cho/higgins/jordan are smarter than me and the kid does have a lot of potential to be agood player in the league. I just think hes more of a late lottery pick if anything, and there are better SF prospects and definitely better all around prospects like Thomas Robinson.

[DashGlobal]

If we draft MKG 2nd over Robinson I would throw my remote through the TV!

But I am hoping we dont even have the 2nd pick. Would love to trade with Portland.

[SuperKemba]

I cant see a guy (SF) becoming an all star without one of the following

1) Great shot-creating / Great scorer

2) Great handle

3) Great shot

3) Elite athleticism

How many players of his caliber come into the league at 18 the same player they'll end up being at 22? Remember Andrew Bynum was even more raw than MKG and look how he turned out. I just feel his has the tools to become a nice player.

[Mustachio]

How many players of his caliber come into the league at 18 the same player they'll end up being at 22? Remember Andrew Bynum was even more raw than MKG and look how he turned out. I just feel his has the tools to become a nice player.


Yeah I remember bynum, he had a similar lack of skill the only difference was that bynum is a 7 footer with elite athleticism. And he went 10th not second overall. MKG isnt 7 foot and isnt elite athletically... why would we take him second.? Guy is a late lottery to midround pick with a whole lotta hype.

[SuperKemba]

Yeah I remember bynum, he had a similar lack of skill the only difference was that bynum is a 7 footer with elite athleticism. And he went 10th not second overall. MKG isnt 7 foot and isnt elite athletically... why would we take him second.? Guy is a late lottery to midround pick with a whole lotta hype.

Bynum never had elite athleticism.

[DashGlobal]

How many players of his caliber come into the league at 18 the same player they'll end up being at 22? Remember Andrew Bynum was even more raw than MKG and look how he turned out. I just feel his has the tools to become a nice player.

Bynum wasnt / isnt undersized.

He has no tools (no tight handle, terrible shot, no elite athleticism, undersized ect)

All he has to work with is his "drive". That aint gonna cut it....

[Bosnian-Bobcats-Fan]

I dont want MKG ...dont think a gerald wallace type player warrants a 2nd pick...

[Plowright]

I feel MKG is the type of person who drives other people to get better as well though. After Kentucky's first loss he organized extra trainings at 6am like almost every day I think because it hurt that much. I can imagine him doing something similar here, even though he will be a rookie. One thing I think we should also take into account is that MJ loves a winner and someone with good attitude who wants to get better. Kemba and Biz both define that kind of player, so does MKG. He won in High school and college and is just a winner more so than anyone else in the draft. I think Cho and MJ will love that about him

[Mustachio]

He won in High school and college and is just a winner more so than anyone else in the draft. I think Cho and MJ will love that about him

I dont get this "winner" stuff. How can you label a guy a winner when he was one piece on a team with 5 first rounders? Is Anthony Davis a loser? Terrence Jones won three 5a state championships in high school. Won the national championship with MKG last year and is taller, bigger, stronger, averaged more points, assists, steals, blocks, had less turnovers and a higher fg% and 3pt%. hes a winner too but just with more production. Kentucky winning it all had much more to do with Anthony Davis being a dominating freak than it did with MKG being a "winner". This kidd has Tebow level hype and he doesnt even have Tebow level production... and that is saying something.

[Plowright]

I am talking about high school as well. What I am saying is not just the fact he won, but the fact that he will sacrifice anything to win. He made Jones better, he made him come in at 6am to do extra practices. MKG will do everything to win where Jones's motor is constantly questioned

[DashGlobal]

Lmao

I have never seen this amount of hype over an average player!

Its sad when all people have to hype up is "winner" "drive"

When did a players basketball skills not become important?!?

[dnbman]

Lmao

I have never seen this amount of hype over an average player!

Its sad when all people have to hype up is "winner" "drive"

When did a players basketball skills not become important?!?

Most reviews seem to think he has elite skills in defense and transition for a SF, not just intangibles. The only real issue seems to be his shooting.

Of course, you can disagree.

[DashGlobal]

Most reviews seem to think he has elite skills in defense and transition for a SF, not just intangibles. The only real issue seems to be his shooting.

Of course, you can disagree.

Only shooting?

Lets try ball handling, shot creating and scoring.

I cant for the life of me understand how he is projected as a top 3 pick. Had he not been pimped out of high school and played for any other college besides UK he would barely be a 1st round talent with his skills and college production.

I could might understand if he was a freak athlete 6'8 40 inch vert ect.

Moe Harkless had better numbers than MKG and is 6'8 and much more athletic and is projected mid 1st to MKG top 3. Doesnt make any sense.

[SWedd523]

Of course, you can disagree.

How subtle

[Jerp]

You wouldn't be alone in that thought Dash, scouts agree he needs work on his shot and handle.
From the Insider article from earlier in this thread....

"He clearly needs to improve as a shooter, and he needs to tighten his handle," one NBA scout told ESPN.com. "But I've never been more confident that he'll improve those things than I am with Kidd-Gilchrist. To me, he was the most improved player in college basketball last year. He made major strides from what I saw in high school. He's so committed to his game, he's going to put the sweat equity into it. I totally believe that, and it's why I'm comfortable saying he's worthy of the second pick in the draft and that he's going to be an All-Star someday. And more important to him, I think, he's going to win a championship some day."
So he's essentially a top 4 pick because of his work ethic.

[DashGlobal]

You wouldn't be alone in that thought Dash, scouts agree he needs work on his shot and handle.
From the Insider article from earlier in this thread....

So he's essentially a top 4 pick because of his work ethic.

Im sorry but im not drafting a guy 2nd overall (wing player that is not an athletic freak) that has a terrible jumper and average handle hoping these things improve because of the guys work ethic.

Give me Moe Harkless later on. Much more bang for the buck!

[SuperKemba]

Only shooting?

Lets try ball handling, shot creating and scoring.

I cant for the life of me understand how he is projected as a top 3 pick. Had he not been pimped out of high school and played for any other college besides UK he would barely be a 1st round talent with his skills and college production.

I could might understand if he was a freak athlete 6'8 40 inch vert ect.

Moe Harkless had better numbers than MKG and is 6'8 and much more athletic and is projected mid 1st to MKG top 3. Doesnt make any sense.

MKG has the ability to do many things well at 18. He is a very good ball handler, Good scorer, Excellent rebounder and has a high BBall IQ. Right now he's ready to contribute and if he improves his shot I see no reason why he can't become an allstar caliber player. MKG is the kind of guy that does many things very well but not great (yet at least). Combine that with his work ethic and youth then you get the reason why people like him as a number 2 pick.

[DashGlobal]

MKG has the ability to do many things well at 18. He is a very good ball handler, Good scorer, Excellent rebounder and has a high BBall IQ. Right now he's ready to contribute and if he improves his shot I see no reason why he can't become an allstar caliber player. MKG is the kind of guy that does many things very well but not great (yet at least). Combine that with his work ethic and youth then you get the reason why people like him as a number 2 pick.

Um when did averaging 11 ppg and getting 90% of those 11ppg in transition & clean up buckets become a "good scorer"?!?!?

Very good ball handler?!? :o

[SuperKemba]

Um when did averaging 11 ppg and getting 90% of those 11ppg in transition & clean up buckets become a "good scorer"?!?!?

Very good ball handler?!? :o

MKG attacks the basket extremely well in traffic and does a very good job finding spots to score. His off the ball movement is how he gets half his scoring opportunities. MKG was not out there jacking up shots or disrupting the offense yet he was still pretty efficient as a scorer despite not having the best jump shot. MKG knows how to score no matter what the stats may seem to say. Don't get me wrong he is no carmelo anthony but he can get you at least 18 a night in his prime.

[Demon DeaCat]

I'm right there with you guys who are questioning this pick. I don't even get the Gerald Wallace comparisons. True GW couldn't shoot or handle earlier in his career, but he at least had freakish athletic ability. MKG=Dominic McGuire. It's unfathomable to me that we or any team would even consider using the #2 overall pick on such an average player.

[CharlotteHornets]

I'm right there with you guys who are questioning this pick. I don't even get the Gerald Wallace comparisons. True GW couldn't shoot or handle earlier in his career, but he at least had freakish athletic ability. MKG=Dominic McGuire. It's unfathomable to me that we or any team would even consider using the #2 overall pick on such an average player.

Your are insane to compare MKG to McGuire...NBA scouts are not idiots and I saw MKG play 6 games last season...he is an elite-level athlete...and if you don't think he can develop a jumper look at Russell Westbrook who has a similar hitch in his jump shot and shoots the ball on his way down...he turned out pretty good...and don't forget MKG is still 18...he is a kid and his game will develop...with all that said I am not sure he is a right fit for the Cats

[DashGlobal]

Your are insane to compare MKG to McGuire...NBA scouts are not idiots and I saw MKG play 6 games last season...he is an elite-level athlete...and if you don't think he can develop a jumper look at Russell Westbrook who has a similar hitch in his jump shot and shoots the ball on his way down...he turned out pretty good...and don't forget MKG is still 18...he is a kid and his game will develop...with all that said I am not sure he is a right fit for the Cats

Westbrook had a MUCH better looking jumper in college than MKG. I dont think there is anyone to compare than jumper to because it is so dang fuggly!

[Plowright]

MKG is Dominic Mcguire!? Wow now I have seen everything

[Demon DeaCat]

Your are insane to compare MKG to McGuire...NBA scouts are not idiots and I saw MKG play 6 games last season...he is an elite-level athlete...and if you don't think he can develop a jumper look at Russell Westbrook who has a similar hitch in his jump shot and shoots the ball on his way down...he turned out pretty good...and don't forget MKG is still 18...he is a kid and his game will develop...with all that said I am not sure he is a right fit for the Cats

Why is it insane? The same superlatives used to describe Mcguire are the very ones everyone keeps trotting out to hype up MKG- high motor, effort, hustle, good defender. It spells role player, and I can't think of anything more insane than using the second overall pick to draft a role player.

[Mustachio]

Lot of negativity now so I want to clarify my position on MKG. I don't think he's a scrub. I don't think he's a bust. I think hes going to be a good player. I just don't think he is a value pick at #2. He may end up the best SF in this class, very likely in fact. I just don't think he separates himself enough from other available SF's to justify the #2 pick. The drop off to Barnes/Harkless is minimal and those guys can be had later if thats what we want. Thomas Robinson is far and away the best PF outside of Davis, and Drummond offers much more upside than any player outside of Davis. Those two guys just seem more in line with what Cho/Higgins want.

Also I think we all agree that this is not the last year we are looking to draft high. With next years relatively weak class, Shabazz and some other guys are much better prospects at SF. I think thats necessary to keep in mind. Not that they would skip a solid player in this draft in hopes that another works out next year. I just think that already, Shabazz is a better prospect even if he bust at UCLA.

[polarcat]

Lot of negativity now so I want to clarify my position on MKG. I don't think he's a scrub. I don't think he's a bust. I think hes going to be a good player. I just don't think he is a value pick at #2. He may end up the best SF in this class, very likely in fact. I just don't think he separates himself enough from other available SF's to justify the #2 pick. The drop off to Barnes/Harkless is minimal and those guys can be had later if thats what we want. Thomas Robinson is far and away the best PF outside of Davis, and Drummond offers much more upside than any player outside of Davis. Those two guys just seem more in line with what Cho/Higgins want.

^^^ 110% agree. I honestly think as individual workouts go, Robinson will close in more on AD and separate himself more from MKG, Beal & Drummond as we close in on draft night. IMO, if we're looking for a SF, Harkless is the one you want out of this draft. Snag that #10 pick from NO, draft Harkless and let Ariza start until Moe gets up to speed.

[Mustachio]

^^^ 110% agree. I honestly think as individual workouts go, Robinson will close in more on AD and separate himself more from MKG, Beal & Drummond as we close in on draft night. IMO, if we're looking for a SF, Harkless is the one you want out of this draft. Snag that #10 pick from NO, draft Harkless and let Ariza start until Moe gets up to speed.


Like the idea that we get Moe and a guy to bring him along behind. But I'm thinking Moe may be gone by 10 now. Reports that Golden State and Toronto at 7 and 8 like him a lot.

[polarcat]

Like the idea that we get Moe and a guy to bring him along behind. But I'm thinking Moe may be gone by 10 now. Reports that Golden State and Toronto at 7 and 8 like him a lot.

DAMN!! Haha.... been loving this kid for awhile now. Well, if those reports are true, than that should shake someone very talented loose that would've went earlier. I think we all agree that the top-5 is set in stone (though the order is not) - AD, TRob, Beal, MKG, Drummond. 6-10 looks like Barnes, Sullinger, Lillard, Lamb, PJIII, Henson and maybe Waiters and Leonard depending. If Harkless gets put into the 6-10 group, someone like Barnes or Lamb could still be there at 10. My whole thing with Toronto is that they were one of the first ones to speak out and say that their pick was available for trade. They might like Harkless, but maybe they think they can trade down.... IDK.

[DashGlobal]

Waiters has been promised by Toronto....

Moe imo will not go in the top 10.

[spectre]

Waiters has been promised by Toronto....

Moe imo will not go in the top 10.


ESPN.com's Chad Ford reported Thursday (https://twitter.com/chadfordinsider/statuses/210867758169202688) that buzz was circulating regarding a draft promise reportedly made to Syracuse guard Dion Waiters, naming the Blazers, Raptors and Suns as the suspects. The Oregonian's Jason Quick quickly followed up (https://twitter.com/jwquick/status/210878327429402624), saying Blazers director of college scouting Chad Buchanan said a few weeks ago he "never" gives players a promise. Raptors GM Brian Colangelo has since told Ford (https://twitter.com/chadfordinsider/status/211113397897539584) no promise was made to Waiters. By process of elimination, that would leave Phoenix (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/211137638156083201).

but I guess Colangelo could be lying.

[Potato]

I think some of y'all are underrating MKG a bit, the McGuire comparison is a joke. Remember he played on a team where they had 6 players who ALL averaged around double digits. Had he been somewhere else at team not as good I bet he would have averaged 16.5 a game last season. His shot needs some work and it's never going to be great, but it can be average to above average and paired with his defense we have a really, really solid player. His work ethic is unreal and he seems to have potential to be a great leader.

[DashGlobal]

but I guess Colangelo could be lying.

Good find.

[Mustachio]

I think some of y'all are underrating MKG a bit, the McGuire comparison is a joke. Remember he played on a team where they had 6 players who ALL averaged around double digits. Had he been somewhere else at team not as good I bet he would have averaged 16.5 a game last season. His shot needs some work and it's never going to be great, but it can be average to above average and paired with his defense we have a really, really solid player. His work ethic is unreal and he seems to have potential to be a great leader.


I hear you. But thats a pretty big gamble to take at #2 for a guy who doesn't have great size, freak athleticism or any particular skill. You are basically gambling that he wasn't as good as he could be because he played on a great team with 5 first rounders. You are gambling that if you take him and put him on a team that isn't nearly as dominant (to say the least haha) that he will suddenly sprout as a player. I think its much more likely that he was as good as he was in college because of the level of talent around him. Essentially at UK, he was a great glue guy. They guy who made it all work. Which is fine, but #2 isn't for glue guys its for All-Stars. If you think the gamble of a transition from glue guy to starter, #1 option, all-star is probable than he may be worth #2. I'm glad I don't have to make the decision, but for me it would be an easy one.

[DashGlobal]

I hear you. But thats a pretty big gamble to take at #2 for a guy who doesn't have great size, freak athleticism or any particular skill. You are basically gambling that he wasn't as good as he could be because he played on a great team with 5 first rounders. You are gambling that if you take him and put him on a team that isn't nearly as dominant (to say the least haha) that he will suddenly sprout as a player. I think its much more likely that he was as good as he was in college because of the level of talent around him. Essentially at UK, he was a great glue guy. They guy who made it all work. Which is fine, but #2 isn't for glue guys its for All-Stars. If you think the gamble of a transition from glue guy to starter, #1 option, all-star is probable than he may be worth #2. I'm glad I don't have to make the decision, but for me it would be an easy one.

+1

two is to high for a glue guy needing work.

[iowabobcat]

Chad Ford is hearing that MJ isn't sold on MKG.

http://www.hoopsrumors.com/2012/06/fords-latest-cavs-bobcats-waiters-rivers.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[spectre]

I think its much more likely that he was as good as he was in college because of the level of talent around him.

If Davis was as much a difference maker for them on defense as I think he was...couldn't it be possible that MKG isn't really as good a perimeter defender as people are saying? Having a dominant defensive presence in the paint can make a lot of folks look good.

He might be all that, but having Davis (and he won't have anything like that here) certainly didn't hurt him.

[dnbman]

Assuming we keep the pick, the question is becoming less and less about how good MKG can be and more and more about if he'll be better than Robinson.

At this point, unless you think MKG is going to be a quality level better than Robinson, there's no reason to take as much of a chance on MKG. Another way of putting it is that Robinson seems to have every bit of upside of MKG, so why take the risk on MKG, especially since Robinson also brings great intangibles to the table?

That being said, we need to actively campaign for how great MKG is to build up his hype to give us more leverage to use that hype. I'm still fantasizing about trading down to get Robinson at 4 and another pick.

[WAM9]

In my mind, there is no chance that MKG will average as many or points or rebounds as Robinson.
if this is seriously the conversation, then Robinson is the pick.

[Mustachio]

Assuming we keep the pick, the question is becoming less and less about how good MKG can be and more and more about if he'll be better than Robinson.

At this point, unless you think MKG is going to be a quality level better than Robinson, there's no reason to take as much of a chance on MKG. Another way of putting it is that Robinson seems to have every bit of upside of MKG, so why take the risk on MKG, especially since Robinson also brings great intangibles to the table?

That being said, we need to actively campaign for how great MKG is to build up his hype to give us more leverage to use that hype. I'm still fantasizing about trading down to get Robinson at 4 and another pick.


great post. But about the campaign... I like the idea of keeping MKG value up for trade options, but now that we know Bonnell is watching the boards, I don't want it relayed back to the front office that we want MKG :)

[Mustachio]

the nail in the MKG at #2 coffin.... Thomas Robinson ran the 3/4 sprint faster than MKG. Bigger, Stronger, Faster, more productive. Game over.

[WAM9]

the nail in the MKG at #2 coffin.... Thomas Robinson ran the 3/4 sprint faster than MKG. Bigger, Stronger, Faster, more productive. Game over.

I've been on board with Robinson for a while now but who expected this?

Wow!

[dnbman]

MKG workout apparently happening next week, but no firm date yet.

MKG's Twitter account,
@MikeGillie14

(Thanks, Mustachio!)

[Mustachio]

MKG workout apparently happening next week, but no firm date yet.

Appears to be MKG's Twitter account, but not confirmed yet.
https://twitter.com/#!/kiddgilchrist


Here is his verified twitter account.

@MikeGillie14

but don't follow it... I don't want the front office thinking its ok to draft him at #2

[Potato]

Here's a quote from a guy I know that goes to Kentucky and lives and breathes UK basketball:

"I think he will be an elite defensive wing and a very good finisher in the open court.. but he will probably struggle offensively his first few years in the league. He has a spartan's work ethic"

[DashGlobal]

Here's a quote from a guy I know that goes to Kentucky and lives and breathes UK basketball:

"I think he will be an elite defensive wing and a very good finisher in the open court.. but he will probably struggle offensively his first few years in the league. He has a spartan's work ethic"

Nothing new.

Hard worker.

Good defender.

Good in transition.

Completely raw on offense.

[Potato]

I pretty much can't make up my mind between MKG and T-Rob, one day I'll want one and the other day I'll want the next. I think MKG has the higher ceiling, if he can develop a consistent offensive game we're looking at our next Gerald Wallace and he can be the second best player on a very good team. Don't think he's ever going to a superstar but I mean you never know. Plus he's only 18 so he's still incredibly young and we're nowhere close to seeing him peak. Don't think the same can exactly be said for Thomas Robinson. I think both will be good leaders and won't cause any problems in the lockerroom so I definitely like that as well, I just love the thought of this future lineup and this is a VERY realistic build if we can get top-3 next year.

PG-Kemba
SG-Hendo
SF-MKG
PF-Biyombo
C-Cody Zeller/Nerlens Noel

The 1 and 2 could still use a bit of an upgrade there, but that's playoff caliber and if we draft Thomas Robinson we're gonna be so clogged inside. MKG fills more of a need, I love how he could come in and we could let Corey Maggette ease him into his role. Today I'm feeling MKG again lol. He's explosive and can take it to the rim and will come in and should be an elite wing by year 2-3.

[dnbman]

I pretty much can't make up my mind between MKG and T-Rob, one day I'll want one and the other day I'll want the next. I think MKG has the higher ceiling, if he can develop a consistent offensive game we're looking at our next Gerald Wallace and he can be the second best player on a very good team. Don't think he's ever going to a superstar but I mean you never know. Plus he's only 18 so he's still incredibly young and we're nowhere close to seeing him peak. Don't think the same can exactly be said for Thomas Robinson. I think both will be good leaders and won't cause any problems in the lockerroom so I definitely like that as well, I just love the thought of this future lineup and this is a VERY realistic build if we can get top-3 next year.

PG-Kemba
SG-Hendo
SF-MKG
PF-Biyombo
C-Cody Zeller/Nerlens Noel

The 1 and 2 could still use a bit of an upgrade there, but that's playoff caliber and if we draft Thomas Robinson we're gonna be so clogged inside. MKG fills more of a need, I love how he could come in and we could let Corey Maggette ease him into his role. Today I'm feeling MKG again lol. He's explosive and can take it to the rim and will come in and should be an elite wing by year 2-3.

I know what you mean. If MKG can be an elite shut-down type defender then I could even live with a mediocre offensive game. However, if he can put together an offensive game, which is very reasonable given his age, he could be an All-NBA type player.

I don't think the guy is hype. I think he's a legit player, but there's definitely question marks.

[Mustachio]

I pretty much can't make up my mind between MKG and T-Rob, one day I'll want one and the other day I'll want the next. I think MKG has the higher ceiling, if he can develop a consistent offensive game we're looking at our next Gerald Wallace and he can be the second best player on a very good team. Don't think he's ever going to a superstar but I mean you never know. Plus he's only 18 so he's still incredibly young and we're nowhere close to seeing him peak. Don't think the same can exactly be said for Thomas Robinson. I think both will be good leaders and won't cause any problems in the lockerroom so I definitely like that as well, I just love the thought of this future lineup and this is a VERY realistic build if we can get top-3 next year.

PG-Kemba
SG-Hendo
SF-MKG
PF-Biyombo
C-Cody Zeller/Nerlens Noel

The 1 and 2 could still use a bit of an upgrade there, but that's playoff caliber and if we draft Thomas Robinson we're gonna be so clogged inside. MKG fills more of a need, I love how he could come in and we could let Corey Maggette ease him into his role. Today I'm feeling MKG again lol. He's explosive and can take it to the rim and will come in and should be an elite wing by year 2-3.


Robinson is the Drain-o, not the clog. T-Rob starts immediately. MKG waits behind Maggette because he can actually score. What need does MKG fill?

[Mustachio]

I don't think the guy is hype. I think he's a legit player, but there's definitely question marks.


He is a legit player... and a good one. he just isn't worthy of a #2 pick.

[Potato]

Robinson is the Drain-o, not the clog. T-Rob starts immediately. MKG waits behind Maggette because he can actually score. What need does MKG fill?
Maggette is not our future SF, lol. I still think Biyombo would be a better fit at PF because he's only 6'9" and if we're hoping to land Cody Zeller or Nerlens Noel next year I don't know if you can take him with already Robinson and Biyombo down low. I think MKG could potentially average 15 ppg in all his starts as a rookie which is like what CM had last year. Yes, Robinson can come in and contribute more day 1 but MKG has the higher ceiling.

e: and there's no one clearly worth the second pick in the draft, so theres that.

[Mustachio]

Maggette is not our future SF, lol. I still think Biyombo would be a better fit at PF because he's only 6'9" and if we're hoping to land Cody Zeller or Nerlens Noel next year I don't know if you can take him with already Robinson and Biyombo down low. I think MKG could potentially average 15 ppg in all his starts as a rookie which is like what CM had last year. Yes, Robinson can come in and contribute more day 1 but MKG has the higher ceiling.


I disagree with almost everything you just said, but thats ok... its all preference I suppose.

-Maggette is not our future SF, but my point is that he is DEFINITELY a better player than MKG right now. Robinson would come in and start immediately. He is already the best PF on this team.

-I don't think Biyombo is a PF either. I think he is a defensive center. Again just my preference.

-If you think MKG could average 15ppg next season, then I think its possible we are talking about two different players. The MKG I know, I think its more likely that 15 is his season high in points.

-MKG Ceiling might be higher (I dont think it is, but I understand the argument) but Robinson's floor may be a little higher too. Another words, MKG has total flop ability, while I think Robinson at the very least is a good rebounder and muscle inside guy from day1.

Finally, all that we have discussed including your bit about wanting to draft Noel next year ( i do as well) is based on "fit". Which is the exact opposite way I think the FO is viewing this. If we draft Robinson and he turns out good, and then next year still have the opportunity for Noel... how is that a bad thing? Robinson, Biyombo, Noel, Mullens frontcourt for the next 4-5 years to me seems like it would serve us better than drafting based on supposed holes. You take the best player available regardless of position... and to me the only option at #2 for the "best player available" is T-rob.

[Potato]

I disagree with almost everything you just said, but thats ok... its all preference I suppose.

-Maggette is not our future SF, but my point is that he is DEFINITELY a better player than MKG right now. Robinson would come in and start immediately. He is already the best PF on this team.

-I don't think Biyombo is a PF either. I think he is a defensive center. Again just my preference.

-If you think MKG could average 15ppg next season, then I think its possible we are talking about two different players. The MKG I know, I think its more likely that 15 is his season high in points.

-MKG Ceiling might be higher (I dont think it is, but I understand the argument) but Robinson's floor may be a little higher too. Another words, MKG has total flop ability, while I think Robinson at the very least is a good rebounder and muscle inside guy from day1.

Finally, all that we have discussed including your bit about wanting to draft Noel next year ( i do as well) is based on "fit". Which is the exact opposite way I think the FO is viewing this. If we draft Robinson and he turns out good, and then next year still have the opportunity for Noel... how is that a bad thing? Robinson, Biyombo, Noel, Mullens frontcourt for the next 4-5 years to me seems like it would serve us better than drafting based on supposed holes. You take the best player available regardless of position... and to me the only option at #2 for the "best player available" is T-rob.

Of course Maggette is better right now, he's been doing it 10+ years while MKG is 18 years old. By the end of the year MKG would definitely take Maggette's job and I think he has multiple outings where he goes for 20+ as a rookie, with his work ethic and drive he's going to do all he can to develop that jump shot, watch out if he does but I mean that statement is nothing new there.

I love Biyombo, I think he can play PF or C but the thought of pairing him at PF with a guy like Zeller or Noel is straight scary. He's going to be over-matched by a lot of centers simply because he's 6'9" even though he does have a ridiculous wing span, as a PF he would never have that problem though. He's already a sick shot-blocker and I think he can be Ibaka-good in that department and Ibaka is a PF.

You're crazy if you think 15 would be MKG season high unless he gets hurt or something. He scored 24 a few times at Kentucky and those were against good teams like Indiana and Louisville he did it against. He's a big-game player in my eyes and he's gonna be inconsistent next year just like he was this year. One night he may be draining everything and the next he might be cold as ice, he's gonna go through stretches like that but flashes. Flashes is what I want to see from a rookie and he's gonna have games where he goes 20+. I promise you that.

Who cares that T-Rob would be better day 1? We're not competing for the playoffs next year we're gonna be one of the 5 worst teams, hell I think we'll probably be THE worst again so just cause T-Rob is more of a day-1 player that makes no difference. MKG has a higher ceiling and much more room to grow and develop than T-Rob does. The "Robinson's floor is lower" argument is incredibly stupid honestly. That's the worst decision-making I could think of.

[dnbman]

The "Robinson's floor is lower" argument is incredibly stupid honestly. That's the worst decision-making I could think of.

Why do you say that? Drafting a guy is basically a gamble, and I think considering what the realistic outcome of a player's career is an important thing to consider.

[Potato]

Why do you say that? Drafting a guy is basically a gamble, and I think considering what the realistic outcome of a player's career is an important thing to consider.

Well if you draft him and he hits his total floor he's getting us no closer to a championship, that's in a broad sense but I guess you guys get it. I don't think MKG can totally flop either, at worst you have a very good wing defender who you can use in strategic situations, but that's a dumb reason to draft a player. MKG was arguably the second best player on the national championship team at 18 YEARS OLD. He has so much room to grow it's unreal and we saw plenty of flashes of brilliance from him last season.

[dnbman]

Well if you draft him and he hits his total floor he's getting us no closer to a championship, that's in a broad sense but I guess you guys get it. I don't think MKG can totally flop either, at worst you have a very good wing defender who you can use in strategic situations, but that's a dumb reason to draft a player. MKG was arguably the second best player on the national championship team at 18 YEARS OLD. He has so much room to grow it's unreal and we saw plenty of flashes of brilliance from him last season.

I like the guy, so I understand where you're coming from. However, it's reasonable to wonder what happens if he never develops much of a shooting touch. Or, do you go with Robinson who has similar upside but isn't as much of a risk?

Weighing potential possibilities is what you have to do when you decide on a player. Let's put it this way, Drummond could easily be the best player in the draft. However, people are looking at the likelihood of that happening and his reasonable floor and have determined that he's not worth a top 1 or 2 pick.

[Potato]

I like the guy, so I understand where you're coming from. However, it's reasonable to wonder what happens if he never develops much of a shooting touch. Or, do you go with Robinson who has similar upside but isn't as much of a risk?

Weighing potential possibilities is what you have to do when you decide on a player. Let's put it this way, Drummond could easily be the best player in the draft. However, people are looking at the likelihood of that happening and his reasonable floor and have determined that he's not worth a top 1 or 2 pick.If he never develops a jump shot and flops, oh well, we missed on another pick. You are taking a risk no matter who you draft. What if he develops one of the most deadly jump shots in the league? Then you're looking at a superstar, so many what if's.... I don't think Robinson's ceiling is as high as MKG's... I think he's almost developed all his tools while MKG was one of the premier players in college basketball last season still very raw and unrefined. His potential is incredible while in T-Rob we have about a 17-11 guy which is good, but MKG can potentially be a 22-9 guy which is definitely better. Yes, I said it, MKG can go 22-9 in his prime. He wants it that bad. I like T-Rob too, if we don't go MKG that's who we need to take, heck, a few days ago I was on the T-Rob wagon. I change my opinion a lot especially when there is no clear-cut no. 2 guy.

[Pepperz]

Thor > MKG

Potential is such a subjective view. I feel that Thor has a higher potential than MKG. He's bigger, faster, stronger and has just as much of a drive/work ethic as MKG. Your only rebuttal is age and if you are hoping that mother nature kicks in so he grows a few more inches is crazy talk. People have compared MKG to Wallace while some people have compared Thor to Karl Malone.

[Mustachio]

If he never develops a jump shot and flops, oh well, we missed on another pick. You are taking a risk no matter who you draft. What if he develops one of the most deadly jump shots in the league? Then you're looking at a superstar, so many what if's.... I don't think Robinson's ceiling is as high as MKG's... I think he's almost developed all his tools while MKG was one of the premier players in college basketball last season still very raw and unrefined. His potential is incredible while in T-Rob we have about a 17-11 guy which is good, but MKG can potentially be a 22-9 guy which is definitely better. Yes, I said it, MKG can go 22-9 in his prime. He wants it that bad. I like T-Rob too, if we don't go MKG that's who we need to take, heck, a few days ago I was on the T-Rob wagon. I change my opinion a lot especially when there is no clear-cut no. 2 guy.

In what universe is MKG going to suddenly develop a deadly jump shot? I'm guessing its the same universe that Thomas Robinson develops a unicorn horn, cause it isn't the one we live in? If you want a potentially good SF, you can draft one later in this draft and get all the same potential that MKG has but without a hiccup shot. There is no one in the draft even close to Thomas Robinson at the PF position (available at #2). You picked draft picks based on value. T-rob is good value at #2, MKG just isn't.

Based on college performance, which is all we have to go on (not the imaginary "potential") I think its reasonable to expect 12/7 out MKG. 22/9 is laughable.

[DashGlobal]

Harkless, Barnes, Miller, and White are all better SF's than MKG right now.

And I dont see anything outside of an act of God fixing that hideous jump shot of his.

[Potato]

Harkless, Barnes, Miller, and White are all better SF's than MKG right now.

And I dont see anything outside of an act of God fixing that hideous jump shot of his.

You are absolutelty outside your mind.

[Mustachio]

You are absolutelty outside your mind.


Just wanted to comment on your 8 paragraph essay in the Thomas Robinson thread about how Mkg was better than any sf. You basically said that mkg was better because he shot 6% better fg%. you said that shooting % being better even though he was on a five first rounder team was the reason he was better. How can you not see that you just proved how close harkless and mkg are? Harkless as you said was the only decent player on his team. That means he got all the defensive attention and still had a pretty close fg% to mkg who always got single coverage playing with anthony davis. And ps... we are talking about drafting this guy to the bobcats not the thunder. He wont have Anthony davis covering his ass in charlotte. He will geta lot of defensive attention in Charlotte and hasnt proven he can handle it. Harkless has.

[DashGlobal]

Just wanted to comment on your 8 paragraph essay in the Thomas Robinson thread about how Mkg was better than any sf. You basically said that mkg was better because he shot 6% better fg%. you said that shooting % being better even though he was on a five first rounder team was the reason he was better. How can you not see that you just proved how close harkless and mkg are? Harkless as you said was the only decent player on his team. That means he got all the defensive attention and still had a pretty close fg% to mkg who always got single coverage playing with anthony davis. And ps... we are talking about drafting this guy to the bobcats not the thunder. He wont have Anthony davis covering his ass in charlotte. He will geta lot of defensive attention in Charlotte and hasnt proven he can handle it. Harkless has.

On top of being on a stacked team, most his points came off transition and clean up buckets...

He has got a way to go imo before he becomes much of an offensive threat.

Ill take Barnes, Miller, Harkless, and White over MKG everyday right now.

[dnbman]

Charlotte Bobcats ‏@bobcats
I know @MikeGillie14 is known for some tenacious d but just retained the ball on 4straight possessions w/ solid offensive moves #CatsDraft

Want to see video so badly.

Also his D was compared to a Chinese finger trap.

and this!


Tom Sorensen ‏@tomsorensen
Watched Michael Kidd-Gilchrist shoot from top of key. Swish, swish, swish, non-swish, swish. So graceful and such cool electric blue shoes.

[Potato]

Want to see video so badly.

Also his D was compared to a Chinese finger trap.

and this!

Sounds like he was very impressive today, I really hope we pick him. I hope yesterday's report was not true.

[dnbman]

Watching the workouts were Bobcats' owner Michael Jordan, president of baskeball operations Rod Higgins and general manager Rich Cho.

Joining the potential picks on the court were Bobcats Gerald Henderson, Kemba Walker and Bismack Biyombo.

Interesting.

http://blogs.charlotte.com/tom_talks/2012/06/michael-kidd-gilchrist-and-his-electric-blue-shoes-come-to-charlotte.html

[Potato]

Interesting.

blogs.charlotte.com/tom_talks/2012/06/michael-kidd-gilchrist-and-his-electric-blue-shoes-come-to-charlotte.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Link didn't work what is it?

[dnbman]

Fixed. Sorenson article on short viewing of workout.

[Potato]

Sounds like MKG was very impressive today so that's a good thing. He's so much better than Barnes it's not even funny.

[spectre]

off tangent, but I love this:


Joining the potential picks on the court were Bobcats Gerald Henderson, Kemba Walker and Bismack Biyombo.

~snip~

As players began to leave Walker, a rookie this season, was still on the court, participating in a shooting drill.

I wouldn't be betting against the guy.

[Jerp]

Electric blue shoes with silver stripe you say? :)
Your move TRob

[mrfargo]

I just watched his interview with bobcats.com.......WOW He does have a speech problem.

[dnbman]

I just watched his interview with bobcats.com.......WOW He does have a speech problem.

yeah. This was a lot worse than the draft combine video.

[mrfargo]

there were only 2 times he actully used a complete sentence. I just dont know. That interview should have only taken about 1:30 to do, but 4 mins...WOW

[superb1]

there were only 2 times he actully used a complete sentence. I just dont know. That interview should have only taken about 1:30 to do, but 4 mins...WOW

I was thinking that I would gotten some good info but got tired of listening

[Mustachio]

yeah. This was a lot worse than the draft combine video.


To me, MKG's anxiety issues trump whatever red flag someone would bring up about Royce Whites anxiety issues. It doesn't affect basketball play what so ever, and we need good basketball players no matter the off court issue. But drafting a guy at #2 means a lot more than just basketball. Its borderline face of the franchise stuff, and he is not ready to deal with that.

[SJackson1]

ive got a similar issue with getting words out but not as bad as MKG, fair play to him for doing interviews !

http://www.nba.com/bobcats/video/michael-kidd-gilchrist-interview-61812

[dav7z]

I dont think we draft him unless hes clearly the best pick . He has real truble handling interviews . Just makes me wonder how good of a BBIQ he has . I know thats mean me saying that but we can't take chances . We have to get it right this time.

[Jerp]

I dont think we draft him unless hes clearly the best pick . He has real truble handling interviews . Just makes me wonder how good of a BBIQ he has . I know thats mean me saying that but we can't take chances . We have to get it right this time.

Theres no real connection that stuttering is a sign of low intelligence

[dav7z]

Theres no real connection that stuttering is a sign of low intelligence

If thats the extent of it i have no problem at all with it. But if its more than just a speach problem ; worries start. Another thing if we looking to add the face of a spokesman . I see him having a hard time doing that. Finishing sentances seemed to be more of a problem than stuttering.

[SJackson1]

I dont think we draft him unless hes clearly the best pick . He has real truble handling interviews . Just makes me wonder how good of a BBIQ he has . I know thats mean me saying that but we can't take chances . We have to get it right this time.

just becasue he has a speech problem doesn't make him a dumb basketball player !

[x2pacalypse]

In all fairness...Adrian Peterson is considered the face of the Vikings franchise....and have you guys ever heard interviews with him? Half of the time I'm pretty sure he's not speaking English. But he is one hell of a player...

[MadBOBCATfanUK]

King of England used to have a speech problem they made a move out of it, would be nice to see Michael Kidd Gilchrists Speech in the cinema in a couple of years.

[Chef]

I dont think we draft him unless hes clearly the best pick . He has real truble handling interviews . Just makes me wonder how good of a BBIQ he has . I know thats mean me saying that but we can't take chances . We have to get it right this time.

i have 1000x more concerns with his general lack of basketball skills outside of being an athlete over any speech impediments. after all, we are drafting a basketball player and not a team spokesman. the face of a franchise does not have to be a great speaker. look at tim duncan vs blake griffin. i would take 4 championships over kia commercials and dunk contests anyday. difference between tim duncan and mkg are basketball skills.

[The Milk]

I think his speech problem is a non-issue. I didn't even know he had it until his draft interviews. If it was a concern I feel it would have been a huge deal and Kentucky and his "leadership" abilities would be affected, which evidently, was not the case.

[SJackson1]

his basketball skills is what we should be focusing on not his speech !

[Scrapper1]

Ron Harper stuttered his ass off but he had a good NBA career...heck, probably worse than MGK.

[Potato]

Dunlap is reportedly a big MKG fan

[DashGlobal]

Dunlap is reportedly a big MKG fan

I hope not...

[BrotherDave]

He almost talks like Sling Blade. "Some folks call it a pick, I call it a screen, Mm-hmm."

[SJackson1]

i like MKG all round game and he has the potential to be something special, its wheather we can afford to take the risk ?

[TheBeagle]

I just watched his interview with bobcats.com.......WOW He does have a speech problem. Yeah, that was painful to watch/listen. Does anyone know if it's a speech problem or a public speaking anxiety disorder, or maybe some combination? Either way, I don't think this should hinder us at all from picking him if we believe he's the one. Plenty of great players have overcome speech impediments such as Bill Walton, Bob Love, Shaq off the top of my head.

[SJackson1]

its very close to call between the 2nd and 5th spots in the draft

[BrotherDave]

Yeah, that was painful to watch/listen. Does anyone know if it's a speech problem or a public speaking anxiety disorder, or maybe some combination? Either way, I don't think this should hinder us at all from picking him if we believe he's the one. Plenty of great players have overcome speech impediments such as Bill Walton, Bob Love, Shaq off the top of my head.
Bill Walton had a speech impediment? Are you sure he wasn't just on an acid trip?

[LiquidWayno]

Bill Walton had a speech impediment? Are you sure he wasn't just on an acid trip? Bahahaha, my thoughts exactly.

[Plowright]

I think it is different to soem extent due to this situation. Whoever goes at 2 will be the face of our franchise, it would rally help if they were good with the media you know? In todays modern world the media is ever more important, I just think it will make his rise to stardom more difficult being so awkward with the camera and reporters. This does not mean that we shouldn't pick him though! He is definitely worthy of the 2 pick

[MGH1989]

I like MKG and wouldn't mind drafting him (would rather have T-Rob), but I hate how all the talking heads say we should draft him because he is a "winner", and and a leader and will bring a winning attitude, that is seriously the dumbest cliche in sports. Kemba Walker was a "winner" and a leader and that didn't mean jack poo. Rant over.

[DashGlobal]

I like MKG and wouldn't mind drafting him (would rather have T-Rob), but I hate how all the talking heads say we should draft him because he is a "winner", and and a leader and will bring a winning attitude, that is seriously the dumbest cliche in sports. Kemba Walker was a "winner" and a leader and that didn't mean jack poo. Rant over.

Exactly. That is such hogwash and generalities.

He was only a "winner" because he was on a stacked team.

Kemba won on a much more inferior team as the leader. Aka Kemba is 10 x the winner and leader than MKG.

[dnbman]

I think you guys might be misinterpreting "winner" as a guy who has a lot of W's versus a person that possesses the traits that make a person a winner: determination, hard work, positive attitude, willing to sacrifice himself for the team, etc.

I can see why even that more expanded view of "winner" wouldn't convince you take a guy with a high draft pick, but I think you're missing the point if you're just viewing "winner" as W's in the column. Note that the same is not being said of his teammates and any number of guys in the past who have been on winning teams.

[DashGlobal]

I think you guys might be misinterpreting "winner" as a guy who has a lot of W's versus a person that possesses the traits that make a person a winner: determination, hard work, positive attitude, willing to sacrifice himself for the team, etc.


There is a ton of guys in the league with those qualities.

Point is they dont mean much if you dont posses elite basketball skills ie shooting, ball handling, scoring, passing, rebounding, athleticism ect.

Sure as hell not with a lottery pick.

[dnbman]

There is a ton of guys in the league with those qualities.


Right, but there are guys that have those abilities that far surpass others in the league, just like most guards in the NBA are great shooters, but some are elite.

And while I've seen that you don't see it, people who are high on MKG think he has elite physical skills too, suggesting he'd be an all-nba defender with serviceable offensive skills.

[DashGlobal]

I dont see elite physical tools. He is doesnt have good size for the SF position and doesnt have elite athleticism, average at best.

Add these to him being a terrible shooter, average ball handler, sub par scorer and one would be foolish to take him so high in the daft.

[SWedd523]

I dont see elite physical tools. He is doesnt have good size for the SF position and doesnt have elite athleticism, average at best.

Add these to him being a terrible shooter, average ball handler, sub par scorer and one would be foolish to take him so high in the daft.
Do you copy and paste the same statement in every thread?

If it's Gilchrist it's ”he's a terrible shooter, bad scorer, yadda yadda”
If it's a trade idea it's ”we need to trade down for 12 picks”
etc.


we get it

[DashGlobal]

Do you copy and paste the same statement in every thread?

If it's Gilchrist it's ”he's a terrible shooter, bad scorer, yadda yadda”
If it's a trade idea it's ”we need to trade down for 12 picks”
etc.
we get it

The block option works great if you have a problem with the way someone posts or the frequency ect.

Cheers :)

[SWedd523]

I just think it would save you time if you made your point once and left it at that. It has to be tiresome going through the trouble to post the same things over and over, no?

I agree with a lot of what you say. I mean, who in their right mind would think Hendo is better than Wayne Ellington?

[DashGlobal]

I just think it would save you time if you made your point once and left it at that. It has to be tiresome going through the trouble to post the same things over and over, no?

I agree with a lot of what you say. I mean, who in their right mind would think Hendo is better than Wayne Ellington?

Kind man you are, worried about my time and trouble! aww

Wayne was a better college player than Hendo. We can agree to disagree on that. :)

[SWedd523]

No no no. you said he's a better NBA player. Not that I disagree, but don't change the story now. Stick to your guns buddy

[SJackson1]

alot of people are not impressed with his jump shot but you don't have to have a great jump shot to be great SF. Gerald Wallace hasn't got a great jump shot and he's one of the best SF in the league !. MKG impresses me the way he attacks the rim and finishes on the run for alot of and one plays and i think its important that we have that kind of player in our roster.

[Whiz Kid]

alot of people are not impressed with his jump shot but you don't have to have a great jump shot to be great SF. Gerald Wallace hasn't got a great jump shot and he's one of the best SF in the league !. MKG impresses me the way he attacks the rim and finishes on the run for alot of and one plays and i think its important that we have that kind of player in our roster.

1) I wouldn't categorize Gerald Wallace as one of the best SF in the league.

2) Everyone is talking about the risks with taking Barnes but what about the risks with MKG? What if he never develops that offensive versatility that we desperately need? Do you really want to use the #2 pick in the draft to acquire a defensive specialist that can only score in transition? We need more then someone with a "winner's mentality". We need someone who's has the skills to go out there and do it no matter the mentality. If we want to go safe, we go Robinson. If we want to go risk/reward. We go Barnes. MKG is just not for us.

[SJackson1]

1) I wouldn't categorize Gerald Wallace as one of the best SF in the league.

2) Everyone is talking about the risks with taking Barnes but what about the risks with MKG? What if he never develops that offensive versatility that we desperately need? Do you really want to use the #2 pick in the draft to acquire a defensive specialist that can only score in transition? We need more then someone with a "winner's mentality". We need someone who's has the skills to go out there and do it no matter the mentality. If we want to go safe, we go Robinson. If we want to go risk/reward. We go Barnes. MKG is just not for us.

why isn't MKG for us ?

he will develop his offensive game but its just his jump shot he needs to improve becasue he his great at attacking the rim and finishing

[dnbman]

1) I wouldn't categorize Gerald Wallace as one of the best SF in the league.

There were a few seasons where Wallace was considered a top 5 SF in the league. Had he not been buried on the King's bench is first few years in the league, he probably would have had a more noteworthy career. Of course, playing for the Bobcats, the league doormat, didn't help. The last year or two have not been great for Wallace, but he's still been productive. He's still probably a top 10 SF in the league.


2) Everyone is talking about the risks with taking Barnes but what about the risks with MKG? What if he never develops that offensive versatility that we desperately need? Do you really want to use the #2 pick in the draft to acquire a defensive specialist that can only score in transition? We need more then someone with a "winner's mentality". We need someone who's has the skills to go out there and do it no matter the mentality. If we want to go safe, we go Robinson. If we want to go risk/reward. We go Barnes. MKG is just not for us.

That's a good point, but consider this: if Barnes doesn't develop a handle and a better attacking game, he becomes a shooting specialist. If MKG doesn't develop a shot, he still could be an all NBA defender that still gives you buckets off transition and hustle.

I still don't know which one I'd want, but I'm still leaning towards MKG.

[Whiz Kid]

why isn't MKG for us ?

he will develop his offensive game but its just his jump shot he needs to improve becasue he his great at attacking the rim and finishing

My take is, IF we are drafting a SF, instead of having a complete offensive project, why don't we take Barnes, who has the offense, and just develop him? Our staff can develop Barnes much quicker and he'd be ready to contribute offensively much sooner plus he can also develop to be a solid defender. Why take on the bigger project?

[SJackson1]

My take is, IF we are drafting a SF, instead of having a complete offensive project, why don't we take Barnes, who has the offense, and just develop him? Our staff can develop Barnes much quicker and he'd be ready to contribute offensively much sooner plus he can also develop to be a solid defender. Why take on the bigger project?


becasue MKG has the better all round game and as dnbman pointed out he has potential to be an NBA all defender. Barnes has a jump shot but not much else to be honest

[Whiz Kid]

There were a few seasons where Wallace was considered a top 5 SF in the league. Had he not been buried on the King's bench is first few years in the league, he probably would have had a more noteworthy career. Of course, playing for the Bobcats, the league doormat, didn't help. The last year or two have not been great for Wallace, but he's still been productive. He's still probably a top 10 SF in the league.



That's a good point, but consider this: if Barnes doesn't develop a handle and a better attacking game, he becomes a shooting specialist. If MKG doesn't develop a shot, he still could be an all NBA defender that still gives you buckets off transition and hustle.

I still don't know which one I'd want, but I'm still leaning towards MKG.

I definitely see your point on the Barnes-shooting specialist and MKG-defensive specialist. But Barnes is also already an average-solid defender. I'm not saying he's great but he's good enough to get by and hold his own. Then who do you take?

[Whiz Kid]

becasue MKG has the better all round game and as dnbman pointed out he has potential to be an NBA all defender. Barnes has a jump shot but not much else to be honest

Barnes is an average-solid defender. I get that he's not on MKG's level defensively but its not like hes completely terrible. He's good enough to get by.

And if we're going by potential, Barnes has POTENTIAL to be a top scorer in the NBA. Please don't twist my words there.

[SJackson1]

I definitely see your point on the Barnes-shooting specialist and MKG-defensive specialist. But Barnes is also already an average-solid defender. I'm not saying he's great but he's good enough to get by and hold his own. Then who do you take?

MKG is great at attacking the rim and his finishing is very good. The only think im concerned about in MKG is the jump shot but with time and coaching he can learn and adapt

[dnbman]

My take is, IF we are drafting a SF, instead of having a complete offensive project, why don't we take Barnes, who has the offense, and just develop him? Our staff can develop Barnes much quicker and he'd be ready to contribute offensively much sooner plus he can also develop to be a solid defender. Why take on the bigger project?

I haven't read too many people calling MKG a project. The criticism is on his jumpshot, not his ability to score in general. And he can still hit jumpers, even if the form is ugly. He's just not that great.

Either guy seem like they could contribute from day 1. The question is boils down to what you want-- more offense or defense-- and what do you see as their likely career? I'm relying on professionals who have a lot more information and experience than us to make that decision.

[dnbman]

MKG is great at attacking the rim and his finishing is very good. The only think im concerned about in MKG is the jump shot but with time and coaching he can learn and adapt

I promise I'm not ripping your posts. I just keep finding myself posting some of the similar ideas about 30 seconds after you do!

[SJackson1]

I haven't read too many people calling MKG a project. The criticism is on his jumpshot, not his ability to score in general. And he can still hit jumpers, even if the form is ugly. He's just not that great.

Either guy seem like they could contribute from day 1. The question is boils down to what you want-- more offense or defense-- and what do you see as their likely career? I'm relying on professionals who have a lot more information and experience than us to make that decision.

couldn't agree more mate !

[dnbman]

I definitely see your point on the Barnes-shooting specialist and MKG-defensive specialist. But Barnes is also already an average-solid defender. I'm not saying he's great but he's good enough to get by and hold his own. Then who do you take?

A couple of folks have pointed out that handles are a lot harder to tweak and learn than jumpshots, as good dribbling technique is often learned much earlier than good shooting technique, since kids aren't strong enough or have big enough hands to shoot the ball well until they're a bit older. That being said, I think it's more reasonable for MKG to adjust his shooting than Barnes to adjust his dribbling. I think Barnes could definitely be somewhere between Ray Allen and Richard Hamilton in terms of his career, which would be a nice piece. But if MKG learns to shoot better, he could be a very strong two way player that can shut down the opposing team's best wing scorer. That has a lot of value to me.

That and what I said in my other post still has me leaning towards MKG, but I'd be happy with either guy.

[Whiz Kid]

I haven't read too many people calling MKG a project. The criticism is on his jumpshot, not his ability to score in general. And he can still hit jumpers, even if the form is ugly. He's just not that great.

Either guy seem like they could contribute from day 1. The question is boils down to what you want-- more offense or defense-- and what do you see as their likely career? I'm relying on professionals who have a lot more information and experience than us to make that decision.

By project, I just mean his offensive versatility. Our coaching and development staff would have to take time and develop that.

Don't take this comparison the wrong way but its just an example.

Biz gets baskets because of his athleticism and work ethic. Showed his potential in the post at the Hoop Summit. His offensive game is considered a project

MKG gets baskets because of his athleticism and work ethic by running the floor. Shows some potential with his jump shot. I'd call his offensive game a project also.

[SJackson1]

we need to get more easy baskets by players attacking the rim more and MKG would certainly do that for us. We can't keep settling for 20ft jump shots all the time !

[dnbman]

Biz gets baskets because of his athleticism and work ethic. Showed his potential in the post at the Hoop Summit. His offensive game is considered a project

MKG gets baskets because of his athleticism and work ethic by running the floor. Shows some potential with his jump shot. I'd call his offensive game a project also.

I see what you're saying, but I think MKG has MUCH more touch with the ball than Biz. Biz is a project on the offensive end in the truest since: you can see his own uncertainty when he gets the ball on the offensive end. MKG on the other hand can do a lot of things to get the ball in the basket, he just has an ugly jumper that he desperately needs to work on. If MKG NEVER got better at his jump shot, he'd probably still give you 12+ points a night, which doesn't seem like a lot, but would probably put him in the top 15 for SFs in scoring.

[Whiz Kid]

we need to get more easy baskets by players attacking the rim more and MKG would certainly do that for us. We can't keep settling for 20ft jump shots all the time !

Barnes can develop to do that. What we need is offensive versatility, which Barnes could do better, earlier for us. I'm not bashing MKG. I would definitely not be mad if we got him. Don't get that wrong. But I like Barnes more for us.

[Whiz Kid]

I see what you're saying, but I think MKG has MUCH more touch with the ball than Biz. Biz is a project on the offensive end in the truest since: you can see his own uncertainty when he gets the ball on the offensive end. MKG on the other hand can do a lot of things to get the ball in the basket, he just has an ugly jumper that he desperately needs to work on. If MKG NEVER got better at his jump shot, he'd probably still give you 12+ points a night, which doesn't seem like a lot, but would probably put him in the top 15 for SFs in scoring.

I wasn't comparing Biz and MKG's game. I don't think its possible to. But I'd take Barnes or T-Rob before I'd take MKG. That's just me though

[dnbman]

Barnes can develop to do that. What we need is offensive versatility, which Barnes could do better, earlier for us. I'm not bashing MKG. I would definitely not be mad if we got him. Don't get that wrong. But I like Barnes more for us.

Like I said before, it really just boils down to what you value. It makes perfect sense to value Barnes more since we need scoring so badly. I'm just nervous about drafting a guy that turns out to be an above average shooting specialist and not much more. If it's between Barnes and Robinson, I'd want Robinson every time. If it's between Barnes and MKG, I'd really have to think it over.

[SJackson1]

Barnes can develop to do that. What we need is offensive versatility, which Barnes could do better, earlier for us. I'm not bashing MKG. I would definitely not be mad if we got him. Don't get that wrong. But I like Barnes more for us.

both guys can improve different aspects of there game becasue they are very young players and both seem to have the determination to get better

[BrotherDave]

B/w Barnes and MKG, I'd probably go with MKG. The kid is only 18 and he already cleans the glass and roams the paint like a 28 year old man, you just can't teach that ish. I'm not really worried about his lack of shooting b/c we've got time for him to improve that and can probably sign or draft a good shooter anytime.

[SJackson1]

B/w Barnes and MKG, I'd probably go with MKG. The kid is only 18 and he already cleans the glass and roams the paint like a 28 year old man, you just can't teach that ish. I'm not really worried about his lack of shooting b/c we've got time for him to improve that and can probably sign or draft a good shooter anytime.

agree mate, he would average 13 PPG just by getting into the lane and attacking the rim

[bes628]

B/w Barnes and MKG, I'd probably go with MKG. The kid is only 18 and he already cleans the glass and roams the paint like a 28 year old man, you just can't teach that ish. I'm not really worried about his lack of shooting b/c we've got time for him to improve that and can probably sign or draft a good shooter anytime.

If you don't feel now is the time to get somebody who can get buckets, after witnessing our season last year then idk what to tell you.

[dnbman]

If you don't feel now is the time to get somebody who can get buckets, after witnessing our season last year then idk what to tell you.

I think his point is that guys who are serviceable shooters are pretty easy to find. Finding difference making two-way players are not.

[SWedd523]

If you don't feel now is the time to get somebody who can get buckets, after witnessing our season last year then idk what to tell you.

To be fair,

Dunlap wants to run an uptempo game in transition.
How do you create transition opportunities? defense and rebounding.
Also, teams that aren't talented (like ours) tend to be fast paced teams anyway.

Pace and transition leads to easy buckets without needing a ton of great offensive talent.

So maybe a guy who is a good defender and rebounder is a better choice?



Hello Beal, MKG, or Drummond!

[SJackson1]

we need help on defense more than offense i would say, great defense leads to easy offense !

[Potato]

I've said it once I'll say it again, MKG really seems like a Dunlap guy as SWedd mentioned. Great in transition and a great defender, also has an outstanding work ethic and Dunlap seems to be huge on that. However I'm guessing Cho is going to have the most say in the pick, not Dunlap. We'll probably take T-Rob but man I really, really want MKG.

[SJackson1]

I've said it once I'll say it again, MKG really seems like a Dunlap guy as SWedd mentioned. Great in transition and a great defender, also has an outstanding work ethic and Dunlap seems to be huge on that. However I'm guessing Cho is going to have the most say in the pick, not Dunlap. We'll probably take T-Rob but man I really, really want MKG.

i would take Robinson or MKG. I like MKG alot becasue he brings a variety of skills to the court including Rebounding, great defender, terrific motor, great at attacking the rim

[Potato]

I really love MKG. Yes, his shot and overall offensive game needs some work but he's the guy that is gonna put it in every ounce of work needed to improve on that.

[SJackson1]

he reminds me of Gerald Wallace bit i think he has the ability to be a better player the Wallace and thats a huge compliment !

[BrotherDave]

If you don't feel now is the time to get somebody who can get buckets, after witnessing our season last year then idk what to tell you.

Swedd covered it pretty succinctly so not to reiterate too much, buckets don't mean much when you can't keep the other team from scoring more on you.

[GoBobs]

MKG was the best transition finisher in college basketball last year. If we are going to be uptempo that would be a good start.

[Bosnian-Bobcats-Fan]

great post by swedd.....MKG defniately looks like a dunlap guy like potato said....great in transition...hard worker...tough....great defender....athlete....jumpshot isnt good at all but with his work ethic i really think he can get it to get good....id take MKG over barnes no doubt but probably would take Trob over MKG.....we'll see

[Plowright]

I think his point is that guys who are serviceable shooters are pretty easy to find. Finding difference making two-way players are not.

Well, we didnt this year... nobody on our team could shoot but i get your point

[SJackson1]

swedd somes it up, great defense leads to easy offense

[QC Thundercats]

I'm still trying to figure out this MKG thing. I really like him as a player, and loved watching him go even though I hate Kentucky, and I think he'll be a good pro. But why does it seem like the national media thinks he's the next greatest prospect in the draft because of his motor? I know he goes harder than most players, but so did Hansbrough. It only gets you so far, especially if your skills are unrefined. An example of the fawning:


Personally, I think Kidd-Gilchrist has a chance to be the second best player in this draft — I especially like him if he lands on a team with a great young point guard like Cleveland. (I'm less bullish if he lands in Charlotte, as he's not the type of player who carries a team on his own yet.) He has more holes in his game than several of the top picks in the draft. He's just a so-so shooter with a hitchy jumper. He's not a great ball handler yet and doesn't really know how to create his own shot. That doesn't scream no. 2 pick.The bold quotes are so contradictory, and normally prospects with that many weaknesses get crushed and dropped out of the top ten. I'm really not seeing what separates him from other hardworking athletes. Tell me, would you draft this prospect #2?

6'8
215 pounds
3-time National Defensive Player of the Year in college
So-so shooter, not a great ball handler, doesn't really know how to create his own shot

Pretty similar stuff to MKG right? Well this describes the Plastic Man himself, Stacey Augmon, a great journeyman role player. Had awesome heart and hustle. How can people compare MKG to Scottie Pippen (like Chad Ford did in that article), who was a better athlete, ball handler, and shooter, and not see more Augmon?

And then regarding Robinson:

Not only does he have an NBA body and athletic ability, but he's taller than everyone gave him credit for (so we can quit calling him undersized) and I think he plays as hard as anyone in the draft not named MKG. The Kings desperately need players like that, so, of course, this pick will never happen.So somebody that has a motor and is as hardworking as MKG, but without all those glaring weaknesses, is such a worse prospect that they have him going 5th? People don't think he can't attack all his weaker points with the same zeal as MKG and become a great player?

I know its the last night before the draft and it doesn't really matter anymore, but the rhetoric on MKG always confused me.

[NiceKrispy]

MKG just has a very confusing style of play and I'm not sold on how it will translate to the NBA. I don't take him 2-4.

[notdeadyet]

Very interesting point that he's ALREADY a very good FT shooter and shoulder steadily improve his jumper. MOST high-motor defensive guys with little offense struggle mightily at the FT line. Having just traded Maggette, SF would seem to be a good position to draft.

[SJackson1]

i really like Kemba, Hendo and Biyombo and i think that they will gradually improve season by season. We need a PF and SF and there are many options in this draft to get both of these needs in this draft. Question is which position will we get with our 2/4th pick ?

[adam187]

I'm still trying to figure out this MKG thing. I really like him as a player, and loved watching him go even though I hate Kentucky, and I think he'll be a good pro. But why does it seem like the national media thinks he's the next greatest prospect in the draft because of his motor? I know he goes harder than most players, but so did Hansbrough. It only gets you so far, especially if your skills are unrefined. An example of the fawning:

The bold quotes are so contradictory, and normally prospects with that many weaknesses get crushed and dropped out of the top ten. I'm really not seeing what separates him from other hardworking athletes. Tell me, would you draft this prospect #2?

6'8
215 pounds
3-time National Defensive Player of the Year in college
So-so shooter, not a great ball handler, doesn't really know how to create his own shot

Pretty similar stuff to MKG right? Well this describes the Plastic Man himself, Stacey Augmon, a great journeyman role player. Had awesome heart and hustle. How can people compare MKG to Scottie Pippen (like Chad Ford did in that article), who was a better athlete, ball handler, and shooter, and not see more Augmon?

And then regarding Robinson:
So somebody that has a motor and is as hardworking as MKG, but without all those glaring weaknesses, is such a worse prospect that they have him going 5th? People don't think he can't attack all his weaker points with the same zeal as MKG and become a great player?

I know its the last night before the draft and it doesn't really matter anymore, but the rhetoric on MKG always confused me.

Right? Totally agree. And that article will be read by 100x more people than any thorough draft research you might find on DraftExpress, and those people are just gonna go blindly along with it. Simmons says you need a guy with an elite skill set, fine I can agree with that, but MKG's elite skill set is not athleticism. He was owned by Barnes in that dept at the combine. Just look at the numbers. I guess you could argue age difference was a factor, but I dunno. Show me some facts to back up the claims.

And I'm not sure how MKG suddenly morphs into Pippen. Just doesn't make sense to me. And then yeah, just completely brush over Robinson, who carried his team, instead of being along for the ride on the Anthony Davis Express. Not to mention Robinson is insanely driven and has such a ridiculous killer mentality.

If we take MKG, I'll be fine with it, I'll trust there's a reason. But the Bobcats of all people should know by now that drafting "winners" is the most overrated draft day hype. How many national champions has this team had? We just picked up another in Ben Gordon. I appreciate heart and hustle, but I like it even more when we see it matched with production.

Sorry, your complaints just reminded me of my own when I first read that article and I had to get them out somewhere. Hope you don't mind me piggybacking.

[SJackson1]

welcome to charlotte MKG !

[tom v]

Right? Totally agree. And that article will be read by 100x more people than any thorough draft research you might find on DraftExpress, and those people are just gonna go blindly along with it. Simmons says you need a guy with an elite skill set, fine I can agree with that, but MKG's elite skill set is not athleticism. He was owned by Barnes in that dept at the combine. Just look at the numbers. I guess you could argue age difference was a factor, but I dunno. Show me some facts to back up the claims.

I'm not saying this was the right pick, but here are a couple of things to consider:
MKG got the better of Barnes every time they were matched up, whether in collegiate games or high school all-star contests.
MKG is the youngest guy in the draft. Keep that in mind when people complain about his jump shot. Jordan, Pippen, Karl Malone were all guys who developed their shots after they came into the league and they came in as juniors and seniors.
The last NBA finals showcased two teams who were stocked with long, fast athletic players. MKG would fit on those teams.
I liked Thomas Robinson a lot and was content with the idea of him at this spot. However, this is not an all-or-nothing draft. This is beginning, in earnest of the rebuild. I would imagine that we'll be looking at another top 5 pick next year, and probably the year after. In that sense, I do really like the fact that we took such a young player - it shows that they are clearly taking the long view.

[GoBobs]

BOOM! Great Pick!

[SJackson1]

a special player in my opinion !

[notdeadyet]

The best way to get out on the fast break, which is what Dunlap seems to be advocating, is creating TURNOVERS with the defense. We just got 2 of the best wing defenders in the draft. Just sticking to "the plan"...
http://www.nba.com/draft/2012/prospects/michael-kidd-gilchrist/
http://www.nba.com/draft/2012/prospects/jeffrey-taylor/index.html

[adam187]

I'm not saying this was the right pick, but here are a couple of things to consider:
MKG got the better of Barnes every time they were matched up, whether in collegiate games or high school all-star contests.
MKG is the youngest guy in the draft. Keep that in mind when people complain about his jump shot. Jordan, Pippen, Karl Malone were all guys who developed their shots after they came into the league and they came in as juniors and seniors.
The last NBA finals showcased two teams who were stocked with long, fast athletic players. MKG would fit on those teams.
I liked Thomas Robinson a lot and was content with the idea of him at this spot. However, this is not an all-or-nothing draft. This is beginning, in earnest of the rebuild. I would imagine that we'll be looking at another top 5 pick next year, and probably the year after. In that sense, I do really like the fact that we took such a young player - it shows that they are clearly taking the long view.

haha, yeah, a couple of hours after my little diatribe and we pick the guy, making me feel like a dick. in my defense i feel like i was attacking the article more than anything about MKG, asking for more substantial arguments.

i like to consider myself a numbers guy, and a lot of the arguments for MKG just weren't sufficiently backed by facts in my opinion; however, Cho is 100x times the numbers guy I am and has way more information and experience, so I definitely trust and support this pick.

I'm glad MKG is the pick, I support him fully, and can't wait to see him play in that new bobcats uniform.

and of course, MKG > Barnes, every day of the week.

[SJackson1]

MKG ha more to his game than the other draft picks in my opinion