Your 2008 Mock Draft

[Slam]

Post yours here!!

March 29th:
Here is my first attempt. Will need to be adjusted once I know the draft order and who is in and who is going back to school:

http://www.draftexpress.com/mymock.php?mid=1130&detail=3

[Slam]

Gee guys, 17 views and not one comment? Not a single one? Do you like it, hate it, not care about it?

At the very least I was hoping you guys would post your mocks so we could compare and discuss/justify our choices!!

[ohara831]

I was working on one before the games tonight. My 4 month old started wailing. He needed a diaper change, needed some "boogie snatching" and then needed a bottle warmed for feeding. His wailing is going on for 30 minutes, and I'm steadily getting thru my mock while my wife attends to him. I'm up to #23, the crying is starting to make me lose my concentration, and then - pooff. I hit the wrong button and completely lost it all. An hour of work gone. Well, I'll start again tomorrow, but I was too aggravated at myself to start again tonight. I'll have one for you soon.

[Slam]

I have a 16 month old ohara. I feel you!!

[Muttley]

I could put one up, but I'd just as soon read what you gurus have to say. I enjoyed reading yours Biggie. Thanks for posting the link to it. I like that you commented on the selections too, it really makes reading it worthwhile. I also like that you had Robin Lopez in the first round, as most mocks I've seen don't.

I might post one if I get a free second.

[spectre]

I was working on one before the games tonight. My 4 month old started wailing. He needed a diaper change, needed some "boogie snatching" and then needed a bottle warmed for feeding. His wailing is going on for 30 minutes, and I'm steadily getting thru my mock while my wife attends to him. I'm up to #23, the crying is starting to make me lose my concentration, and then - pooff. I hit the wrong button and completely lost it all. An hour of work gone. Well, I'll start again tomorrow, but I was too aggravated at myself to start again tonight. I'll have one for you soon.


Ahhh, the memories!

I'm catching up on college ball right now...which kind of sucks since a lot of the lottery picks are now back home. I've been relying on most of you guys' opinions and until we know our actual position that's probably how it'll stay for me.

Out of the blue...Hibbert looks kind of high, but he brings some intangibles that could be very valuable to a lot of teams.

NY getting Mayo...damn. Could very well happen, but I'm going to be doubly disappointed if we lose him to those guys.

Think Bucks will go with an SG? With Redd and their crap SF options I'd think they'd lean more that way...but after looking thru the top 15 there really doesn't seem to be one until Randolph. Isn't that kind of unusual as it seems the most "common" players are wings?

As always, quality work Slam.

Take Bayless out and DJ comes to us...not bad.

[ohara831]

That's it. I quit! I spent 3 hours this morning creating a mock, got it all done, hit submit, and it disappeared! It says I ahve not submitted one. I'm not wasting my time again. I'd rather watch grass grow!

[davcbow]

I was working on one before the games tonight. My 4 month old started wailing. He needed a diaper change, needed some "boogie snatching" and then needed a bottle warmed for feeding. His wailing is going on for 30 minutes, and I'm steadily getting thru my mock while my wife attends to him. I'm up to #23, the crying is starting to make me lose my concentration, and then - pooff. I hit the wrong button and completely lost it all. An hour of work gone. Well, I'll start again tomorrow, but I was too aggravated at myself to start again tonight. I'll have one for you soon.


Im glad mine are grown up and on their own... :biggrin:.... I feel your grief but it does get better until the teenager years.



That's it. I quit! I spent 3 hours this morning creating a mock, got it all done, hit submit, and it disappeared! It says I ahve not submitted one. I'm not wasting my time again. I'd rather watch grass grow!


I found that on long time consuming posts it may be best to do it on a text file and hit save every now and then. After you get finished with your post then paste it to the post reply screen. That way you dont lose it..... Just a suggestion..... :wink:

[Slam]

Thanks for the feed back Spectre. You have some very valid points. I'll address them as best I can.

1st and foremost - I agree. It would suck arse if the Knicks landed Mayo!! Of course, it would suck even harder if they landed the #1 or #2!! Watching Crawford and Mayo try to co-exist might be "interesting!!"

Hibbert might be a little high, but I see him as a great fit in Minni. If they are banking on Foye taking the into the future then they are set at the point (no need for Bayless, DJ etc), have McCants who is coming along, Brewer who I think will be a legit SF and of course Big Al. I see their biggest position of need as a 5. As I mentioned, Hibbert has an old head on his shoulders and would help that young team come together and would allow Al to continue to grow and be the franchise player in Minni. I thought hard about putting Mayo or Gordon there with McCants playing the 6th man role, but I don't think they can pass up on the over all talent of Hibbert.

The Bucks were by far the hardest in the top 10 to figure out. I figured they have committed money long term to Mo Williams at the point. They have Redd at the 2. A whole at the 3 (although they are paying Simmons a packet!!) and Yi and Bogut at the 4/5. I think that having a double headed offense of Gordon and Redd (plus Gordon plays pretty good D) would give a lot of teams fits with 3 balls raining down think and fast. Plus, both Yi and Bogut are great passes of the ball so the more good shooters you surround them with, the better off they are going to be (can't double Yi and Bogut if you know Gordon and Redd will light you up).

The only other thing I could really see them doing would be to drat DJ to really bolster their PG and then keep going with Redd at the 2 and Mason/Simmons at the 2 but I think that a Gordon/Redd combo is MUCH better (because of their bigs abilities) than a Redd/Mason-Simmons combo.

[Slam]

That's it. I quit! I spent 3 hours this morning creating a mock, got it all done, hit submit, and it disappeared! It says I ahve not submitted one. I'm not wasting my time again. I'd rather watch grass grow!
------------------------------------

Hang in there mate!! I really want to see your mock. Just click "submit mock" after every 2 or 3 selections as you go and then keep adding to it.

Honestly, it's not hard and it's well worth it. Once you have your base you can go back and keep changing and updating and it's easy and piss.

[spectre]

The only other thing I could really see them doing would be to drat DJ to really bolster their PG and then keep going with Redd at the 2 and Mason/Simmons at the 2 but I think that a Gordon/Redd combo is MUCH better (because of their bigs abilities) than a Redd/Mason-Simmons combo.


I don't know why but I read their board a lot (to commiserate I guess), and they really detest that Redd/Williams backcourt.  DJ would be a fantastic signing for them if Kohl listens to the fans and decides to bust them up.  He listens too...they did a "bag" night and paraded around in front of him at a game...Harris was fired very shortly after that.  The way they talk Kohl flat out loves Redd, so it wouldn't shock me to see them take DJ and look to move Mo before the deadline.

Good thought...wouldn't surprise me a bit if it went down like that.

Good call on Hibbert and MINN too...think maybe a trade down for value might be in their future?

[ohara831]

More than 1 way to skin a cat!! My Mock-Damnit

1. Mia - Michael Beasley - best impact player
2. Seatt - Derrick Rose - best PG; another CP3?
3. Memph - Brook Lopez - Best big this yr; must replace Pao
4. Minn - Jarryd Bayless - need a PG
5. NY - Eric Gordon - need a SG
6. Clips - DJ Augustin - replace BK at PG is a must
7. Milw - Dan Gllinari - SF needed
8.Charl - OJ Mayo - playmaking Combo G to sub for Ray/J-Rich
9.Chi - Russ Westbrook -need a PG and scorer
10.Ind - Ty Lawson - need a PG
11.NJ.- Nic Batum - need a SG to replace VC soon
12.Sac - Kevin Love - move over Mikki Moore
13. Port - Donte Green - Young SF to replace Webster
14.Denv - Darren Collison - new PG needed soon
15.Pho-DeAndre Jordan - worth the risk, groom for C post Shaq
16.Philly - Tyler Smith- athlete who can score/defend
17. Tor - JaVal McGee - talented bigs are always nice
18.Wash - Anthony Randolph - may be the steal of the Draft
19.Clev - Roy Hibbert - stock fell, groom to replace Big Z
20. G.St. - Robin Lopez - talented Big needed badly
21.NJ - Mario Chalmers - young PG will be nice addition
22. Orl - Marresse Speights - to add Power to front line
23. Utah - Chase Budinger - sharp shooter can help them
24. S.A. - Serge Ibaka - the rich get richer; a real sleeper
25.Hous - DeVon Hardin - he'll help up front
26. Seatt - Kyle Weaver - a solid Combo G to greatly help
27. Memph - Tyler Hansbrough - more front line help
28.NO - Chris Douglas Roberts - how did he last this long?
29. Det-Darrrell Arthur-to replace R. Wallace after next yr
30. Boston - Joey Dorsey - new blood with attitude

[Muttley]

Heck yeah, OHara. After seeing your first post, I'm glad to see you didn't disappoint the masses. I was real interested to see where you had everyone on the draft board.

Spectre, you're up next buddy! Let's see it.





Comments for OHara:

The one thing I really question is also the thing closest to my heart. I don't think JJ Hickson will go that early, and I'm also not sure that he would be anywhere near a replacement for 'Sheed. Maxiell is all the replacement that Detroit needs once Sheed leaves the game, and JJ doesn't replace the 3-point ability that Sheed brings. While that may not be necessary for a PF, what Detroit would need is already there in Jason Maxiell, from what I've seen.

Also, I like the talk I've heard of OJ recently. You guys have gotten me excited about the possibility of landing that kind of a game-changer.

[spectre]

8.Charl - OJ Mayo - playmaking Combo G to sub for Ray/J-Rich

Bless you Ohara! I (and I think you and a lot of others) see the possibilties a guy like Mayo could bring for us. If only he lasts til our pick.


Spectre, you're up next buddy! Let's see it.

Muttley I'm going to have to wait til we get slotted in and then I'll do some research and maybe firm up an order. Right now I don't know squat about a few of those lottery guys. Since you guys are getting me "into it" that might have to come sooner.

Let's see yours!

BTW...just wanted to say how much Slam's effort in this draft forum is helping me out...his comparisons and destinations are gold for folks like me that don't really pay attention til now.

+1 for you bud.

[Slam]

Nice ohara!! Glad you stuck with it.

Noticed you left off Thabeet, Griffin, Authur, Hansborough, Rush and Walker.

Do you think they are all 2nd round picks?

Thanks for the kind words Spectre. Don't take what I say as gospel though!! It's just one mans opinion. I can say that I don't comment on someone unless I have seen them play at least twice though.

[Muttley]

Damnit. The same thing happened to me OHara!

I'm working on a Mock Draft so as to coerce Spec into posting one before the lottery.

It's much harder than I thought I have a great respect for those of you who are able to keep track of so many basketball teams/players that you can hash out what teams need vs. which college/international player will provide it.

[ohara831]

I added in Arthur and Hansbrough into late 1st. See if you think it makes a little more sense.

[Muttley]

Here's my take.

To be honest, towards the end I was just grasping at names I might have recognized, etc. By then my knowledge was pretty well thinned-out.

Muttley's Attempt (http://www.draftexpress.com/mymock.php?page=view&mid=1167&detail=1)

[dav7z]

Congrats to both of you guys for the mock drafts.
just a few questions . 1st Your troughts on CDR you both have him going so low . Hes 6.7 he can sky quick as hell has a handle and creates his own shot . This kid is a sleeper . Im thinking a loto pick.
Both of you have D.J well ahead of Westbrook . Wesbrook is stronger a better defender and seems to creat just as well. To me D.J seems like a young B.K.
The idea of Hibbert going to Minn. seams like a great fit . Would have never thought of it.
I look for CDR to rize as well as Westbrook and for D.J. and Lawson to fall to the end of the first.

[Slam]

Thanks dav.

I like CDR, but I don't usually get caught up too much in the hype of the tourney to change my mind on players. He might sneak up a little on my board (which I will revise after the lotto order is set) but not into the lottery.

DJ is much more the finished product and a pure point. Westbrook is more a combo guard who has a lot of potential but still needs a lot of work. Westbrook sure does have the size and athletic ability over DJ, but DJ has the smarts.

I think when it comes to PG play, smart go a long way.

[dav7z]

Hear is my try mind you Slam is the man.

1. Beasley
2. Rose
3. Lopez
4. Hibbert
5. Mayo
6. Russell Westbrook, SIZE , SPEED , STRENTH
7. C D R . might should be a top 5, sleeper of the draft,
8, Griffin, Jordan , Thabeet , hard pick for Charlotte.
9. Jordan , To much upside to go deeper
10. Gordon replacement for Gordon
11. Thabeet way to much upside to go deeper
12. Collison
13. Lawson another speedy point stronger than D.J
14. Love ,A steal at 14
15. Randloph
16. Javale Mcgee
17. Hansborough Just to active to go any lower
18. B Rush don't like him but the kid can ball
19. D.J Ausutin very nice back up point
20. Hickson NC state Another unknown sleeper LOTS of upside
21. Budlinger may be under rated
22. R Lopez nice big body
23. Ellington might have the purest shot in the draft
24. D Author very nice defender , needs work on offence
25. Ibaka
26 D Green
27. Devon Hardin
28. Bill Walker
29. Batun could drop to the 2nd nice player
30. Bill Walker

So i give it a shot , Notice the players i have for Charlotte. I could see us taking a chance on Jordan or Thabeet hear.

[dvdbumpus]

If Hibbert goes top 5 I'll buy you tickets to see his first game.

[Slam]

If Hibbert goes top 5 I'll buy you tickets to see his first game.
---------------------

Do you consider Sheldon Williams to be a better basketball player than Roy Hibbert?

[spectre]

If Hibbert goes top 5 I'll buy you tickets to see his first game.
---------------------

Do you consider Sheldon Williams to be a better basketball player than Roy Hibbert?


I consider pretty much everyone projected to go in the 1st round better than Shell Head.

But that could be just me...

[ohara831]

Sheldon waa a bust as a Lottery pick. He may still have something to contribute, but he was no where near the first round quality they thought.**That said, even the most ardent anti Sheldon guy had him going in the mid 1st round, certainly before the 2nd round. So, it was one of those situations where everyone saw potential and did not recognize that he had pretty much tapped out the potential in College. I blaame the Hawks for taking him so high, but someone would have taken him in the late teens somewhere.

Hibbert is not going Top 10. Way too raw for my taking. Too much work to be done to get what is needed out of him when there is some other better talent much more refined and sure to produce. He's a Big, but he's still a project. Lottery teams need someone who will likely provide dividends quicker. I see him going to Cleveland to have him groomed to replace Big Z in a few years.

[Slam]

Hibebrt Raw?

That's interesting. Along with DJ (and maybe Beasley) I think he is the most NBA ready out of the current draft class!!

Different strokes for different folks U guess!!

[dvdbumpus]

If Hibbert goes top 5 I'll buy you tickets to see his first game.
---------------------

Do you consider Sheldon Williams to be a better basketball player than Roy Hibbert?



Well it was the Hawks that drafted him...and they're a bunch of boneheads. And no, I certainly don't consider Williams to be a better basketball player. But I also thought he didn't deserve to go higher than mid to late first round in a weak draft, just like I don't think Hibbert deserves to go any higher than mid round in a strong draft. I like Ohara's idea of replacing Z in Cleveland, or him going to New Jersey.

[ohara831]

Scratch Blake Griffin off your lists. he's staying in school another yr. hard to believe; he was projected Top 10

[Dead_Real]

He'll go in the top 3 next year if his knee holds up dude had an underrated year because of Rose, Beasley and Tyler.

[dvdbumpus]

Just so everyone knows, we don't have a 2008 2nd round pick. This is due to the Kareem Rush trade.

Kareem Rush is a bum!

[Muttley]

Just so everyone knows, we don't have a 2008 2nd round pick. This is due to the Kareem Rush trade.

Kareem Rush is a bum!


I forgot about that. He screws us again!

[ohara831]

Just so everyone knows, we don't have a 2008 2nd round pick. This is due to the Kareem Rush trade.

Kareem Rush is a bum!
__________________________________________________

Per the nbadraft.net site, we do have a 2nd this draft. It is our 2009 2nd that we lose due to the Rush trade in 2004

Also, it looks as tho we have 3 2nd rounders in 2009 anyway. Again, pr the nbadraft.net site, we get Hornets 2nd from the Melvin Ely trade in 2007, via Spurs we get Toronto 2nd from Nesterovic 2006 trade and via Toronto we get a Hornets 2nd from Aaron Williams trade of 2006.

Double check me if you can. When I go to the nbadraft.net site, and you see a 2nd round pick with an * by it, click on it. It will then give you the trades in the 1st and 2nd rounds of 2008 Draft and 2009 Draft.

[spectre]

According to RealGM - Recent Transactions (http://www.realgm.com/src_recent_transactions/2005/12/) we owe this year's pick to the Lakers:


Dec 6, 2004
The Charlotte Bobcats acquired guard Kareem Rush from the Los Angeles Lakers for second-round picks in 2005 and 2008.

Also according to ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/teams/transactions?team=cha&year=2004):


December 7, 2004 Acquired guard Kareem Rush from the Los Angeles Lakers for second-round picks in 2005 and 2008.

[ohara831]

And DraftExpress has noted on its transactions page that it is our 2009 2nd round we gave to LA. That is 2 reliable sources saying 2008 and 2 reliable sources saying 2009.

I am hopeful it is 2009 pick we gave up. I want Larry Brown to have as much ammo as possible in retooling our team into a winning franchise.

[Muttley]

I am hopeful it is 2009 pick we gave up. I want Larry Brown to have as much ammo as possible in retooling our team into a winning franchise.

Was that intentional?

[ohara831]

Be nice now. OK, I want Larry Brown to have as much ammunition in terms of acquiring talent for this upcoming season so he can shape this Bobcat team into the team he feels can win.

[Muttley]

I agree. I just can't help myself. I love puns, especially the bad ones.

[BlockParty]

The trade was amended 11 months later? Found this on Realgm.com. So the Bobcats have their 2008 2nd round pick.

Below is exerpt on Charlotte's exchange (it'll be a wash if draft picks are close)

Credits
2009 second round draft pick from San Antonio
The less favorable of San Antonio's own 2009 2nd round pick or New Orleans' own 2009 2nd round pick via Toronto to Charlotte [San Antonio - Charlotte, 2/13/2007]

Debits
2009 second round draft pick to L.A. Lakers
Charlotte's own 2009 2nd round pick to the LA Lakers [Charlotte - LA Lakers, 12/6/2004, later amended 10/26/2005]

[Slam]

Here is my "knee jerk" reaction after last nights lotto. It still needs to be tweaked. If you need me to explain any of my selections, let me know and I will be happy to try and justify why I have guys going where I have them!!

There is always method to my madness!!

1: Bulls = Beasley
2: Heat = Rose
3: Wolves = Randolph
4: Sonics = B.Lopez
5: Grizzlies = Love
6: Knicks = Bayless
7: Clippers = Gordon
8: Bucks = Gallinari
9: Bobcats = Mayo
10: Nets = Batum
11: Pacers = Augustin
12: Kings = Westbrook
13: Blazers = Budinger
14: Warriors = Greene
15: Suns = Jordan
16: 76ers = Speights
17: Raptors = McGee
18: Wizards = Hibbert
19: Cavs = Authur
20: Nuggets = Chalmers
21: Nets = Alexander
22: Magic = R.Lopez
23: Jazz = CDR
24: Sonics = Rush
25: Rockets = Koufos
26: Spurs = Lee
27: Hornets = Dorsey
28: Grizzlies = Hardin
29: Pistons = Walker
30: celts = Weaver

[spectre]

Here is my "knee jerk" reaction after last nights lotto. It still needs to be tweaked. If you need me to explain any of my selections, let me know and I will be happy to try and justify why I have guys going where I have them!!

There is always method to my madness!!

1: Bulls = Beasley
2: Heat = Rose
3: Wolves = Randolph
4: Sonics = B.Lopez
5: Grizzlies = Love
6: Knicks = Bayless
7: Clippers = Gordon
8: Bucks = Gallinari
9: Bobcats = Mayo
10: Nets = Batum
11: Pacers = Augustin
12: Kings = Westbrook
13: Blazers = Budinger
14: Warriors = Greene
15: Suns = Jordan
16: 76ers = Speights
17: Raptors = McGee
18: Wizards = Hibbert
19: Cavs = Authur
20: Nuggets = Chalmers
21: Nets = Alexander
22: Magic = R.Lopez
23: Jazz = CDR
24: Sonics = Rush
25: Rockets = Koufos
26: Spurs = Lee
27: Hornets = Dorsey
28: Grizzlies = Hardin
29: Pistons = Walker
30: celts = Weaver

Slam have I told you lately just how much I love your mocks?

[Slam]

Slam have I told you lately just how much I love your mocks?

Hehehehehe. Thought you might like it.

Funny thing is, I didn't gear it towards us getting Mayo - it was just the way it worked out.

The only other team above us I see really wanting him would be the Clipps - but I think they might rather Gordon (less baggage, more a pure SG).

[Chef]

i don't think the grizzlies are taking love. they are still stinging from the big country debacle. i think we are going to get love (unless he continues to shed weight and moves up) or westbrook

[ohara831]

You know, I am sure we are going to call in DeAndre Jordan for a workout, too. If he really starts to show his stuff, I can see us making that move. He does have tons of potential, and I hate drafting on "potential" stars. But if he really does start to show what all the hype was about, I could see it happening.

[Muttley]

We better call Jordan in for a workout. For that matter, call in Hibbert too. Like their game/style or not, they'll both probably be on the board when our pick is up and who knows what they might be able to show Coach Brown in workouts.

I'd be all for Love at #9, but I'm not sure he'll be around then. Teams can draft guys based on hype alone. With Love just having a piece done about him on ESPN (thus boosting his appeal in my eyes) his stock will surely rise with teams above us and they very well might take him before we get a chance.

I think Mayo will be gone too, but who really knows. I like your optimistic outlook, Slam!

[Slam]

i don't think the grizzlies are taking love. they are still stinging from the big country debacle. i think we are going to get love (unless he continues to shed weight and moves up) or westbrook

I think with all the work that Love is putting in he is going to blow GM's away during workouts and will fly up the board.

They have a great PG in Conley, Miller at the 2, Gay at the 3 and Darko at the 5. Adding a PF is a must for them - and someone with the IQ of Love would be perfect.

[Slam]

You know, I am sure we are going to call in DeAndre Jordan for a workout, too. If he really starts to show his stuff, I can see us making that move. He does have tons of potential, and I hate drafting on "potential" stars. But if he really does start to show what all the hype was about, I could see it happening.

I think the front office has finally decided to stop trying to put a round peg into a square hole and have come to the conclusion that EO50 is a 5 and not a 4. With that in mind, I don't think we would draft Jordan. No doubt we'll bring him in, but I doubt we would draft him.

Just my opinion though.

[MattD]

Hehehehehe. Thought you might like it.

Funny thing is, I didn't gear it towards us getting Mayo - it was just the way it worked out.

The only other team above us I see really wanting him would be the Clipps - but I think they might rather Gordon (less baggage, more a pure SG).

what about the Knicks? Milwaukee? Clips? All want PG/SG. I am sad to say, but I will be very surprised if Captain Mayonnaise is available at 9, and oh i want him bad.

[MattD]

yes after further review, I wouldnt bet the bucks take G from italy. They dont need another SF/PF type player, they want a SG so they can dish Redd.

[Slam]

I think Mayo will be gone too, but who really knows. I like your optimistic outlook, Slam!

Here is what I'm thinking on the Mayo slide Muttley.

Every year, someone slides. It's just the nature of the draft. B.Wright was said to be a lock for the 3rd pick last year and he slide to #8. Rudy Gay was tossed around as a potential 1st over all the year before and he also fell to #8.

I think that some GM will fall for a Jordan/McGee/Love/Speights/Authur type and their size combined with a soild workout and predraft measurements.

I think that Mayo might be the kid to slide this year. His "baggage" issues had been all but earased - then all of a sudden the story breaks last week that he might have accepted cash etc from USC to play there, violating NCAA rules. Once again, his character is brought into question. This "might" turn some GM's off. That and the fact that all of the teams above us (except for the Clipps) have other pressing needs other than a SG makes me think he might fall.

Bulls - Have Gordon (and wont pass on Beasley/Rose anyway)
Heat - Have Wade (and wont pass on Beasley/Rose anyway)
Wolves - Have Foye (and need someone to help/compliment Big Al)
Sonics - Have Durant (who they foolishly play as a SG)
Grizzles - Have Miller (and need a big to round out their starting 5)
Knicks - Have Crawford (who is JUST like Mayo - and they need a PG)
Clipps - The danger team
Bucks - Have Redd (and need a SF)
Bobcats - Have Swish (but we all think he's a better SF than SG)

See what I mean?

BTW - The Knicks are a team who I think might reach for someone like Jordan, which woulld still help us. They have Curry and Randolph (a horrible pairing) and need a defensive stopper/rebounder. Enter Jordan.

If that DID happen, look for the Clipps to draft Bayless which would really help Mayo fall to us.

Make sense?

[spectre]

Be leary of the Bucks as they're looking to deal Redd. Hammond is already saying he wants more defense on the team and Mayo would slide right in.

And boy would that piss me off if he made it that far and was snatched the pick ahead of us.

[Slam]

Be leary of the Bucks as they're looking to deal Redd. Hammond is already saying he wants more defense on the team and Mayo would slide right in.

And boy would that piss me off if he made it that far and was snatched the pick ahead of us.

The problem for the Bucks though will be trying to move Redd and his rather large contract.

The ironic thing is that when Redd went into the draft from Ohio State and was selected in the 2nd round, he was known as a defensive stopper and not the scorer he has now become!!

[dvdbumpus]

On espn it has the Knicks taking Mayo, as they said he "has the shooting and athleticism to fit into D'antoni's offense perfectly".

Would they trade Crawford and draft Mayo? I don't think so....but could use cap relief.

[Muttley]

Make sense?

Yeah, it does. Each of those teams have reasons why they don't need to take him. However, just like us, they may see a way to take him anyways. After all, other sides might see us and think that we wouldn't want him because we already have Swish and Crash. I think the Bucks situation of possibly moving Redd is just one example of how Mayo would not fall to us.

BUT, none of us are in a decision-making position with any team, so we're really all guessing and your mock is as good a one as I've seen. At minimum, you've thought it out pretty well and not just thrown names on a board. I don't think my guess would be any closer to what happens on 6/26.

[Slam]

Here we go!! Now we know who is in and who is out, here is how I'm thinking the draft should play out. Keep in mind I said should, not will!! It's too hard to try and predict trades etc so I am just treating the draft as staying true to form - not that it will!!

1: Bulls = Beasley
I honestly think that the Bulls would be out of their minds crazy to pass on Beasley. He and Noah could form a fantastic 4/5 combo for the next 10 years.

2: Heat = Mayo
The perfect solution to the back court woes of the Heat. Wade and Mayo will give opposing teams fits and be enough to make Marion want to resign there when his contract comes up after the next season.

3: Wolves = Love
McHale loves him. The young Wolves could do with a rookie with a vet like head on his shoulders. Love can play inside out which compliments Jefferson and the two of them can slide between the 4 and 5 spots.

4: Sonics = Rose
In what turns out to be the 1st draft shocker, Rose drops to the Sonics and they can't believe their luck.

5: Grizzlies = B.Lopez
Gay and Miller need an offensive post presence to take some heat away from them and allow them easier looks. After moving Gasol, the Grizzles have next to nothing when it comes to big men. Lopez fixes that.

6: Knicks = Bayless
The Knicks find their floor general for the future as Bayless falls right into their lap.

7: Clippers = Augustin
With Livingston's future up in the air and the Clipps with no full time option at the point, they go with Augustin.................who ends up winning the RoY award after starting all 82 games and leading the Clipps into the playoffs.

8: Bucks = Alexander
After an amazing showing at the combines the Bucks go with the high upside kid knowing they can play Simmons at the 3 while Alexander matures and learns how to play.

9: Bobcats = Randolph
The front office has (finally) decided that EO50 is a 5 and not a 4 and that we need an athletic, long, multi skilled 4. Swish and Crash LOVE the way Randolph initiates the break and EO50 takes the kid under his wing in the weight room, teaches him about yoga and in two years time Randolph has shoulders as big as EO50's!! (not really - but I do hope they end up work out buddies and Randolph bulks up)

10: Nets = Gordon
The Nets hope to try and copy the Wade/Mayo combo with thier own version using Harris/Gordon. The Nets will activley shop Dick Head and once the deal goes down, will move VC to the 3 and Gordon to the starting 2 spot. With Harris a larger sized PG Gordon's height wont be a problem.

11: Pacers = Westbrook
Pretty obvious pick considering there aren't any quality PG's left on the board and the Pacers are in desperate need of a PG.

12: Kings = Gallinari
After refusing to workout with a number of teams the Itallian sees his draft position slide. Artest is almost done in Sac Town and the Kings hope that Gallinari will bring back some of the magic the young Peja did at the 3 spot for them

13: Blazers = Rush
Rush has been lighting it up during workouts and while the Blazers really needed a combo guard, they take BPA who will also give them depth at the wing position. With Roy, Rudy coming to the NBA and Webster, the Blazers have a nice 4 man rotation at the 2/3 spots

14: Warriors = Greene
Pietrus is as good as gone. Barnes is as good as gone. Bookie is as good as gone. Harrington is coming to the end of his deal. The Warriors need a 3/4 who likes to get up and down and shoot the ball. Greene is perfect for that. He'll also help on the boards.

15: Suns = Jordan
While the trade for Shaq was a stupid one, the Suns are about to get their money's worth out of the Big Diesel as he takes Jordan under his wing over the next few years and teaches him how to play the game. Jordan finds himself in the perfect situation to learn from one of the best bigs ever to play the game.

16: 76ers = Speights
A great compliment to Dalambert Speights nice face up game and jump shot stretches the floor for the Sixers

17: Raptors = R.Lopez
The Raps need a "dirty work" type of guy who will get in and get dirty to allow CB4 to relax a little on the defensive end and give it all on the offensive end. Rasho is on the decline and a FA soon and Lopez fills what they need.

18: Wizards = Hibbert
I love the big guy!!

19: Cavs = McGee
With Z coming to the end Verajeo will become the starting 5 and McGee will be brought in to play the starting 4 spot (eventually). He is a nice contrast to Anderson and his length and shot blocking will be welcomed.

20: Nuggets = Chalmers
The Nuggets have a hole at the point and bring Chalmers in as a back up

21: Nets = Ajinca
The Nets go with a big with a lot of potential to try and bloster their front court.

22: Magic = Lee
The Magic are seriously lacking at the 2 spot and bring in the gritty, talented Lee to fill the void. Lee has been burning it up during workouts and the Magic might have just lucked into the steal of the draft

23: Jazz = CDR
He's a heady, old fashioned type of wing player - just the way that Sloan likes 'em!! Their back up wings aren't getting any younger and CDR is a nice, safe pick

24: Sonics = Batum
The Sonics, after lucking into Rose, don't really care who they pick here because they are still too busy hugging each other over landing Rose!! Batum gives them some depth at the wing - which they need.

25: Rockets = Koufos
A nice back up for Yao and some added height for the Rockets front court - something, once you get past Yao, they seriously lack. Everyone seems to be under sized in Houston!!

26: Spurs = Ibaka
You know they are going to stash him over in Europe for the next 2 or 3 years and then just unleash him on the NBA having found their next last 1st/early 2nd round Euro steal!

27: Hornets = Dorsey
They need a blue collar, chest pumping, in your face intimidating grunt man. Dorsey is perfect for that, knows his limitations and his strengths and playing with Paul looks a million bucks. Side note: Maxiell and Dorsey get into a fist fight after a hard foul and the result makes the fight in the new Hulk movie look like childs play ; )

28: Grizzlies = Hardin
Again, the Grizzles are very thin in the front court with little to no talent. Hardin gives them a bully who, along with Warrick, firms up their 2nd unit bigs (behind Lopez and Darko in the 1st unit)

29: Pistons = Walker
After tweaking his knee (again) Walker sees his stock slide back down after it was climbing up to the top 20 during workouts. The Pistons snap him up and along with Affalo, hope that they have their Rip and Prince replacements

30: celts = Weaver
A heady, tall combo that gives the Celts some depth.


What do you think guys?

[ohara831]

Well, the Draft shocker shocks me. Cant see Rose falling past #2, but it was a bold prediction. Gallinari already said it's the Knicks or Nets or he stays in Italy, so SAC wont take him. I think he is at #6 with NY or #10 with NJ. And if Gordon is there for us at #9 he's ours. They will play him at the SG, and move Crash for a PF. No question in my mind. Gordon has as much upside as Randolph, but is already far more polished. He's a terrific SG who has sufficient handles to play some solid backup PG and is also not bad at all on Defense. He'd be the choice over Randolph is both were on the Board. But, I dont see Gordon lasting to us at #9. Everything else looks very possible.

[Slam]

Thanks for the feedback ohara. Any chance you might throw one together? I'd love to see it.

[ziggy]

Rose falling to #4 would be an amazing amount of good fortune for the Sonics.

If that scenario happens with top 4 then you are officially a draft prognosticating legend.

[ohara831]

O'Hara Mock v.2

1. Chi - Derrick Rose
2. Miami - Michael Beasley
3. Minn - OJ Mayo
4. Seattle - Jerryd Bayless
5. Memphis - Kevin Love
6. NY - Anthony Randolph
7. Clippers - DJ Augustin
8. Bucks - Eric Gordon
9. Charlotte - Russell Westbrook
10. NJ - Danilo Gallinari
11. Indiana - Brook Lopez
12. Sac - Joe Alexander
13. Portland - Donte Green
14. GSW - Kosta Koufos
15. Phoenix - Brandon Rush
16. 76'ers - DeAndre Jordan
17. Toronto - Roy Hibbert
18. Washington - JJ Hickson
19. Cavs - Darell Arthur
20. Denver - Alexis Ajinca
21. NJ - Courtney Lee
22. Orlando - Chris Douglas Roberts
23. Utah - Nicolas Batum
24. Seattle - Serge Ibaka
25. Houston - Mario Chalmers
26. San Antonia - Mareese Speights
27. New Orl - Bill Walker
28. Memphis - Robin Lopez
29.Detroit - JaVale McGee
30. Boston - Jason Thompson

[Slam]

Interesting ohara. Lopez sliding all the way to #11 considering he was considered the 3rd overall pick up to the combine would be amazing.

Do you think that Gordon will play the point in the NBA, the Bucks will play Redd at the 3 and Gordon at the 2 or that the Bucks will trade Redd?

Jordan to the Sixers when they already have Dalambert?

Alexander to Sac Town is a great call. He and KMArt would be a nice teaming. Two very hard workers and with Artest on the way out, I like it.

All in all, nice work.

[ohara831]

Gordon went to the Bucks b/c he was the best player on the Board. They will figure out what to do, and trading Redd has been talked about this year. But they could not let him fall further. I really wanted to let him fall to Charlotte, but since I am such a fan of his, I knew it would be my "hoping" for it rather than the real chance it happens.

76'ers will play Dalembert. Jordan needs to learn and is 2-3 years away, so no real problem there. He'll get 15 min or so a game his Rookie year, and slowly work into more time. They can afford to let him improve with time as they do have Dalembert.

Anyway, after the top 5, if I get 8 or the remaining 25 right, I'll be amazed. Something always happens, like trades. And that blows everything else out of whack.

[ohara831]

Well, I have a feeling Slam and I will be off on Batum going in the 1st round now. Dont see a team taking him in the 1st with a heart issue.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/news/story?id=3454367

[ohara831]

Think is is interesting what Thompson thinks about Westbrook. Boy, if it fell this way for us, I'd be quite content.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/ian_thomsen/06/19/mock.draft/index.html

[Slam]

Love is like Ammo to me. I really enjoyed watching Ammo play at Zag but I didn't want to draft him because of his obvious short comings. Love has the same effect on me.

Love would be a better fit on the Bulls, Raps, Nets, Sixers, Magic than he would be with us IMO.

[Slam]

Funniest mock I have seen all year. Great stuff!!

http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=816728&p=16737697#p16737697