It feels funny to write "Pelicans" as the name of a professional sports team... not that Hornets was much better. I digress: New Orleans is a team with a promising future. Last year they took Anthony Davis with the number one pick- a player destined for multiple All-Star appearances. After trading Chris Paul to LA, the team was left without an identity. Davis is a phenomenal building block, but is still a few years away from becoming an All-Star. Ryan Anderson is the best stretch 4 in the game- and a player coveted around the league. Eric Gordon can be a lethal scorer, but has knees that some think will soon resemble Brandon Roy's. Vasquez and Lopez are solid contributors, but were forced into a starting role. In short, there is a lot to like about this team- but they need an infusion of talent to make the leap into playoff contention. Here is how their depth chart currently looks:
1 Vasquez
2 Gordon/Rivers
3
4 Davis/Anderson
5 Smith
The team also holds options on Robin Lopez (5M), Brian Roberts, Lance Thomas and Darius Miller.
Statistical Leaders from 2012/13:
Points: Gordon (17)
Rebounds: Davis (8.2)
Assists: Vasquez (9.0)
Blocks: Davis (1.8)
Steals: Aminu (1.2)
Without counting the team options (If they were all declined) the Pelicans have about 24 million dollars in cap space. If they keep Lopez and Roberts (What I would expect), they would have about 17-18 million. The team has lots of flexibility to make moves, but New Orleans isn't a sought after destination because of the team's recent losing record streak. Just like some of the other teams below them, they may have to overpay a player to sign him. Here are some potential free agent options, followed by draft options, where they hold the 6th pick.
Team Needs: SF, C, PG
Free Agency
Paul Pierce- Now, before you get too excited, yes I know. Pierce is not technically a free agent. His final year (Next one) on his contract is non-guaranteed, and there is speculation that Boston could look to cut Pierce and start building towards the future. Pierce would be a perfect fit in New Orleans, and could still be a go-to player, with a capable 4 man (Davis) next to him. Vasquez is no Rondo, but he actively looks to get teammates involved. Pierce fits well in New Orleans, who could afford to pay him.
Andre Iguodala- If he chooses, Iguodala can opt into free agency, where he will likely become the most sought after wing player on the market. He would bring needed defense and athleticism to the Pelicans, and has some ability to handle the ball as well. He is not a terrific shooter, but Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon have shown the ability to shoot. He would fit nicely in New Orleans, but may look to sign with a team closer to contending.
Nikola Pekovic- New Orleans struggled rebounding the ball. The RFA from Minnesota could be a good fit to fill the gap at center, as Robin Lopez is better suited as a backup. By offering a max contract, Minnesota may not match, giving New Orleans their center. He would fit next to Davis both offensively and defensively, and would bring needed toughness to New Orleans.
Draft
Otto Porter- Porter fills a need as a versatile, and low cost when compared to Pierce and Iggy, 3 man. Porter is a good shooter and defender who would fit right in with the core in NO.
Dario Saric- Saric has been hotly rumored to be withdrawing from the draft, but, if he stays in, New Orleans could take him at #6 overall. Saric is a point-forward along the lines of a Hedo Turkoglu or Toni Kukoc who needs to work on his shooting. His talent is undeniable, and New Orleans could persuade him to stay in the draft by giving him a promise.
Trey Burke- If New Orleans does not view Vasquez as their PG of the future, they could spend a pick here on Burke. The national college player of the year, Burke excels with the ball in his hands, and is a capable shooter, and uses his elite quickness to get in the lane.
What does the future look like? It looks bright. Anthony Davis is a building block all GM's would salivate over. Ryan Anderson is a sought after point forward. They have another high pick to work with. Eric Gordon, when healthy is solid. Austin Rivers has to play better, and be a scorer. I likened him to a lesser Monta Ellis before last years draft, which looked true in parts. He just couldn't make shots. Hopefully, he has worked hard this summer to insure his WARP is not more than 5 below league average again next year. If I were Dell Demps, I would try to trade Gordon- I know, easier said then done. I would look for a desperate team with cap space (Charlotte?) to essentially get 50 cents on the dollar. If I were in the front office, I'd take Trey Burke, and give him the starting job from day one. He is a special talent who will start in the league for a long time.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Eurocamp
The NBA Draft Combine is one of the biggest events in preparing for the draft. Many international prospects cannot attend, though, because of contractual obligations with their respective clubs. This year only two international prospects- Schroeder and Gobert- performed at the combine. Both these players are mid-first round picks. The international crop is stronger than in the last few years, and there are many players in Treviso who could really improve their stock. Here are my thoughts about some players involved:
The most intriguing players for this draft are Nemanja Nedovic, Lucas Nogueira and Bojan Dubljevic. In addition, Dante Exum is a fantastic prospect for next year's draft, and is a player to watch hard in the future. Also, Giannis Antetokoumpo's U-20 Greek team played an hour away against the U-20 Croatia team. Being there to scout the event and Antetokoumpo's game would have been great. So, based off of what I have read, and from my analysis of each player thus far, here are a few predictions.
-It sounds like Gobert had to withdraw due to food poisoning. His draft stock won't be affected, and he will likely go between 12 and 20 on draft day.
- Lucas Nogueira is the next Hasheem Thabeet- and I don't necessarily mean that as a bad thing. Thabeet got thrown into the fire too early, and was not developed properly. If a team is patient with Nogueira, he could be a very effective big man for 20min a game at the next level. His ceiling could be as high as 16 to Boston, but he likely goes between 25-35.
- Bojan Dubljevic is a strong 6'9 power forward with a good perimeter stroke. He looks like he could play a similar role as Joel Freeland played in Portland this year, but he is still a few years away. as a draft and stash, teams could do much worse in round one.
- It sounds like Antetokoumpo had 11 points and showed both his versatility and his raw talent. He is 3-4 years away, and is the biggest project in the draft. A team drafting him has to think of him as high school student- he needs lots of time. A team with 2 picks in round one, like Cleveland, Minnesota, Atlanta and Oklahoma City could all bite the bullet on the intriguing mystery man from Greece. After pick 20, he should be in demand.
- I am going to make a bold statement that Nemanja Nedovic goes in the first round. I have had a first round grade on him all year (and even last), but I appear to be the only one this high on him. He is an extraordinary athlete who can play both guard spots, and is improving his shooting. He is still a work in progress, and needs to become a better ball handler, but his defensive potential coupled with his scoring ability show that he should be a first round pick. If he goes in round 2, he is the steal of the draft. I would love to see Portland trade up to get him.
The most intriguing players for this draft are Nemanja Nedovic, Lucas Nogueira and Bojan Dubljevic. In addition, Dante Exum is a fantastic prospect for next year's draft, and is a player to watch hard in the future. Also, Giannis Antetokoumpo's U-20 Greek team played an hour away against the U-20 Croatia team. Being there to scout the event and Antetokoumpo's game would have been great. So, based off of what I have read, and from my analysis of each player thus far, here are a few predictions.
-It sounds like Gobert had to withdraw due to food poisoning. His draft stock won't be affected, and he will likely go between 12 and 20 on draft day.
- Lucas Nogueira is the next Hasheem Thabeet- and I don't necessarily mean that as a bad thing. Thabeet got thrown into the fire too early, and was not developed properly. If a team is patient with Nogueira, he could be a very effective big man for 20min a game at the next level. His ceiling could be as high as 16 to Boston, but he likely goes between 25-35.
- Bojan Dubljevic is a strong 6'9 power forward with a good perimeter stroke. He looks like he could play a similar role as Joel Freeland played in Portland this year, but he is still a few years away. as a draft and stash, teams could do much worse in round one.
- It sounds like Antetokoumpo had 11 points and showed both his versatility and his raw talent. He is 3-4 years away, and is the biggest project in the draft. A team drafting him has to think of him as high school student- he needs lots of time. A team with 2 picks in round one, like Cleveland, Minnesota, Atlanta and Oklahoma City could all bite the bullet on the intriguing mystery man from Greece. After pick 20, he should be in demand.
- I am going to make a bold statement that Nemanja Nedovic goes in the first round. I have had a first round grade on him all year (and even last), but I appear to be the only one this high on him. He is an extraordinary athlete who can play both guard spots, and is improving his shooting. He is still a work in progress, and needs to become a better ball handler, but his defensive potential coupled with his scoring ability show that he should be a first round pick. If he goes in round 2, he is the steal of the draft. I would love to see Portland trade up to get him.
Friday, June 7, 2013
Portland Trail Blazers Draft Workout List
Here is the list of players who have worked out for Portland thus far:
* Next to each player is an estimated draft range
Today (June 7):
Cody Zeller/Indiana, 6-14
EJ Singler/Oregon, und.
Glen Rice Jr/NBDL, 20-40
Trevor Mbakwe/Minnesota, 40-und.
Larry Drew II/UCLA, und.
Ed Daniel/Murray State, 50-und.
Ian Clark/Belmont, und.
June 3:
Elijah Johnson/Kansas, und.
Abdul Gaddy/Washington, und.
Brandon Davies/BYU, 50-und.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope/Georgia, 9-19
Sherwood Brown/Fla. Gulf Coast, und.
Jared Berggren/Wisconsin, und.
May 31:
Brandon Triche/Syracuse, 50-und.
Grant Jerrett/Arizona, 40-und.
Greg Echenique/Creighton, und.
DJ Cooper/Ohio, und.
May 30:
BJ Young/Arkansas, 40-und.
Adonis Thomas/Memphis, 40-und.
Dexter Strickland/UNC, und.
Tony Mitchell/North Texas, 15-30
Richard Howell/NC State, 40-und.
James Ennis/Long Beach St., 25-45
The only players Portland has worked out who could go number ten are Zeller, Caldwell-Pope, and Mitchell, though Mitchell would be a slight reach. Stay tuned to see who is added onto this list.
*Bonus*- It sounds like Dario Saric may withdraw. I love Saric's game, and he would be good value to Portland at ten. If he withdraws, the Blazers lose a candidate to draft, as well as lose an option who could slip to ten if Saric went higher. It's best for Rip City if he stays in, but time will tell. He has been very undecisive thus far in the draft process.
* Next to each player is an estimated draft range
Today (June 7):
Cody Zeller/Indiana, 6-14
EJ Singler/Oregon, und.
Glen Rice Jr/NBDL, 20-40
Trevor Mbakwe/Minnesota, 40-und.
Larry Drew II/UCLA, und.
Ed Daniel/Murray State, 50-und.
Ian Clark/Belmont, und.
June 3:
Elijah Johnson/Kansas, und.
Abdul Gaddy/Washington, und.
Brandon Davies/BYU, 50-und.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope/Georgia, 9-19
Sherwood Brown/Fla. Gulf Coast, und.
Jared Berggren/Wisconsin, und.
May 31:
Brandon Triche/Syracuse, 50-und.
Grant Jerrett/Arizona, 40-und.
Greg Echenique/Creighton, und.
DJ Cooper/Ohio, und.
May 30:
BJ Young/Arkansas, 40-und.
Adonis Thomas/Memphis, 40-und.
Dexter Strickland/UNC, und.
Tony Mitchell/North Texas, 15-30
Richard Howell/NC State, 40-und.
James Ennis/Long Beach St., 25-45
The only players Portland has worked out who could go number ten are Zeller, Caldwell-Pope, and Mitchell, though Mitchell would be a slight reach. Stay tuned to see who is added onto this list.
*Bonus*- It sounds like Dario Saric may withdraw. I love Saric's game, and he would be good value to Portland at ten. If he withdraws, the Blazers lose a candidate to draft, as well as lose an option who could slip to ten if Saric went higher. It's best for Rip City if he stays in, but time will tell. He has been very undecisive thus far in the draft process.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
State of the Suns
Phoenix wound up as the worst team in the Western Conference, and 4th worst in the league. Unfortunately, they were jumped on draft day by Washington, and are now picking 5th in the draft. Their roster is unimpressive. Their best player is Goran Dragic, who has the potential to be a double-double player with points an assists. His biggest issue? The players around him. Dragic is in the upper half of starting point guards, and could have started for some playoff teams this year (Atlanta, Houston, LAL, Chicago, Miami) and improved upon what they already had. He shoots the ball well from the perimeter, and shows good court vision. He won't ever be Steve Nash to Phoenix, but he is still a very good starting PG on a very reasonable contract. The rest of their team? Here is how their depth chart looks now:
1 Dragic/Marshall
2 Dudley/Brown
3 Morris/Morris
4 Scola/Beasley
5 Gortat/Frye
The team also has team options on Haddadi and Tucker, and can place a qualifying offer on Garrett. I would expect all three to be declined.
Statistical Leaders from 2012/13:
Points: Dragic (14.7)
Rebounds: Gortat (8.5)
Assists: Dragic (7.4)
Blocks: Gortat (1.6)
Steals: Dragic (1.6)
The team has roughly 10 million dollars in cap space, but has not spent money wisely over the past few summers, having given out average players like Beasley, Frye, Warrick and Childress, lucrative and long contracts. The team has some flexibility, but given the lack of talent on the roster (Dragic, Gortat and Dudley are 3 best players, and ok young talent) there will not be many free agents wanting to go to Phoenix. As a result, they may have to overpay someone, or look for value (the smarter choice). Here are free agent and draft fits for the team:
Team Needs: SF, SG, PF
Free Agency:
Tony Allen- Phoenix was an awful defensive team last year. Enter Allen- the best wing defender in the league right now. He won't make a lot of shots, but he would have an increased role than he has in Memphis. Allen could start to change the mentality in Phoenix that the run and gun offense should be maintained. New coach Jeff Hornacek should help with that as well.
David West- West was the glue holding together a good Indiana team. Even though he said he wanted to resign with the Pacers, the Suns could make it interesting by offering a lucrative, short term contract. West scores in multiple ways, and would be an upgrade over Luis Scola, who is more of a backup at this point in his career.
JJ Redick- Redick has been a hot topic in this series, but he fits the mold of a player who could get overpaid. Dragic needs reliable options to find on the wing, and Redick is the best option on the market.
Andrew Bynum- What's left in his knees? Who knows, but Phoenix's training staff is the highest regarded in the league. Maybe something could be figured out.
Greg Oden- No, they probably aren't that desperate, but similar logic applies.
Draft:
Ben McLemore- McLemore has drawn Ray Allen comparisons. He would find a good situation in Phoenix where he could be the go to guy with time to experiment. He could score 20 points a game in his first year, possibly inefficiently. A Dragic/McLemore backcourt would be potent offensively.
Victor Oladipo- Oladipo has tremendous defensive potential. What if they were able to add Allen and Oladipo? What wing wants to go up against that? The quickest way to get back into contention is to build from the defense first. Oladipo would fit nicely in Phoenix.
Otto Porter- Does anyone actually think the Morris twins or Michael Beasley should play extended minutes at the 3? I don't. All three are low efficiency stretch 4's who Phoenix would be wise in trading (Beasley especially, if someone wanted him. What about a Beasley/Brown for Bargnani swap?) Porter does everything well, and would fit in right away as a true 3 man.
What does the future look like? It is uncertain. The Suns have a pivotal offseason where they need to change a lot about the club. Overpaid players like Beasley, Scola and Frye (Who is coming back from a heart issue) do not come off the books until after the 2014/15 season. If the Suns build a defensive squad with some shooting involved (i.e. Memphis' plan) they could be contenders in a few years. Until then, next year will be rough, and they should cross their fingers for Andrew Wiggins.
1 Dragic/Marshall
2 Dudley/Brown
3 Morris/Morris
4 Scola/Beasley
5 Gortat/Frye
The team also has team options on Haddadi and Tucker, and can place a qualifying offer on Garrett. I would expect all three to be declined.
Statistical Leaders from 2012/13:
Points: Dragic (14.7)
Rebounds: Gortat (8.5)
Assists: Dragic (7.4)
Blocks: Gortat (1.6)
Steals: Dragic (1.6)
The team has roughly 10 million dollars in cap space, but has not spent money wisely over the past few summers, having given out average players like Beasley, Frye, Warrick and Childress, lucrative and long contracts. The team has some flexibility, but given the lack of talent on the roster (Dragic, Gortat and Dudley are 3 best players, and ok young talent) there will not be many free agents wanting to go to Phoenix. As a result, they may have to overpay someone, or look for value (the smarter choice). Here are free agent and draft fits for the team:
Team Needs: SF, SG, PF
Free Agency:
Tony Allen- Phoenix was an awful defensive team last year. Enter Allen- the best wing defender in the league right now. He won't make a lot of shots, but he would have an increased role than he has in Memphis. Allen could start to change the mentality in Phoenix that the run and gun offense should be maintained. New coach Jeff Hornacek should help with that as well.
David West- West was the glue holding together a good Indiana team. Even though he said he wanted to resign with the Pacers, the Suns could make it interesting by offering a lucrative, short term contract. West scores in multiple ways, and would be an upgrade over Luis Scola, who is more of a backup at this point in his career.
JJ Redick- Redick has been a hot topic in this series, but he fits the mold of a player who could get overpaid. Dragic needs reliable options to find on the wing, and Redick is the best option on the market.
Andrew Bynum- What's left in his knees? Who knows, but Phoenix's training staff is the highest regarded in the league. Maybe something could be figured out.
Greg Oden- No, they probably aren't that desperate, but similar logic applies.
Draft:
Ben McLemore- McLemore has drawn Ray Allen comparisons. He would find a good situation in Phoenix where he could be the go to guy with time to experiment. He could score 20 points a game in his first year, possibly inefficiently. A Dragic/McLemore backcourt would be potent offensively.
Victor Oladipo- Oladipo has tremendous defensive potential. What if they were able to add Allen and Oladipo? What wing wants to go up against that? The quickest way to get back into contention is to build from the defense first. Oladipo would fit nicely in Phoenix.
Otto Porter- Does anyone actually think the Morris twins or Michael Beasley should play extended minutes at the 3? I don't. All three are low efficiency stretch 4's who Phoenix would be wise in trading (Beasley especially, if someone wanted him. What about a Beasley/Brown for Bargnani swap?) Porter does everything well, and would fit in right away as a true 3 man.
What does the future look like? It is uncertain. The Suns have a pivotal offseason where they need to change a lot about the club. Overpaid players like Beasley, Scola and Frye (Who is coming back from a heart issue) do not come off the books until after the 2014/15 season. If the Suns build a defensive squad with some shooting involved (i.e. Memphis' plan) they could be contenders in a few years. Until then, next year will be rough, and they should cross their fingers for Andrew Wiggins.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Game 7 Preview
Tonight Indiana will play Miami for the right to play San Antonio in the NBA finals. A lot is on the line tonight. Legacies? Big 3? Conspiracies? Pacers? Heat?
Not a lot changes tonight- the same starters are expected, and the same shot distribution should be expected. LeBron was recently knocked by his teammates for shooting more- a rather ridiculous thought, right? He is scoring 30 a game, while adding 7 rebounds and 7 assists per game. Would you want Wade and Bosh, who are shooting very poorly at the moment, taking more shots than James? (also, James is only taking 4 more shots per game- it's not like he has gone JR Smith on the Heat). If Wade and Bosh feel the need to get theirs, and miss, Miami could be in trouble. Here are my keys to game 7:
1. Win the turnover battle- Indiana knows this from earlier games in the series. If a team turns the ball over more than 10-12 times per game, they are giving away far too many opportunities to score in transition. Indiana especially needs to keep their TOs under 10.
2. George vs. James- James is going to put up his usual stat line of 30/7/7. Can Paul George match it? If he scores more than 20, Indiana has a good shot to win. If he has a poor outing, there may not be much scoring from the outside. Hill can shoot, and Stephenson is streaky, but neither possess the overall floor game of George. He must play well tonight.
3. Points in the paint- Miami has been brutalized inside. West and Hibbert have exposed Bosh inside, and Birdman only helps to an extent (having him back in game 7 will help A LOT). If Miami can stay within 7 in the points in the paint battle, they will have a good chance of winning.
Overall this game is a toss-up. If Indiana shoots well, Miami could fall. If Miami gets easy baskets in transition, and LeBron gets a little support from the other big 2, Indiana should fall. I would love to see Indiana beat Miami. The "not 5, not 6" speech still leaves me wanting to see them lose. Is it realistic?
The pick: Miami 92 Indiana 90
Not a lot changes tonight- the same starters are expected, and the same shot distribution should be expected. LeBron was recently knocked by his teammates for shooting more- a rather ridiculous thought, right? He is scoring 30 a game, while adding 7 rebounds and 7 assists per game. Would you want Wade and Bosh, who are shooting very poorly at the moment, taking more shots than James? (also, James is only taking 4 more shots per game- it's not like he has gone JR Smith on the Heat). If Wade and Bosh feel the need to get theirs, and miss, Miami could be in trouble. Here are my keys to game 7:
1. Win the turnover battle- Indiana knows this from earlier games in the series. If a team turns the ball over more than 10-12 times per game, they are giving away far too many opportunities to score in transition. Indiana especially needs to keep their TOs under 10.
2. George vs. James- James is going to put up his usual stat line of 30/7/7. Can Paul George match it? If he scores more than 20, Indiana has a good shot to win. If he has a poor outing, there may not be much scoring from the outside. Hill can shoot, and Stephenson is streaky, but neither possess the overall floor game of George. He must play well tonight.
3. Points in the paint- Miami has been brutalized inside. West and Hibbert have exposed Bosh inside, and Birdman only helps to an extent (having him back in game 7 will help A LOT). If Miami can stay within 7 in the points in the paint battle, they will have a good chance of winning.
Overall this game is a toss-up. If Indiana shoots well, Miami could fall. If Miami gets easy baskets in transition, and LeBron gets a little support from the other big 2, Indiana should fall. I would love to see Indiana beat Miami. The "not 5, not 6" speech still leaves me wanting to see them lose. Is it realistic?
The pick: Miami 92 Indiana 90
State of the Cavaliers
The Cavs struck gold twice in 3 years by earning the top pick in this draft. Will it matter? The Cavs finished 3rd worst in the NBA, but their roster suggests a better winning percentage. Kyrie Irving is regarded as a top ten PG, and future star, but he has not led his team to anything yet. Anderson Varejao was playing great before his injury, and Tristan Thompson showed improvement as well. They have a good young SG in Dion Waiters as well, their top choice from the 2012 draft. The Cavs look to have a brighter future than many teams they finished behind this year. If Irving, especially, can be healthy, this franchise could make the playoffs in the next 2 years. Here is their depth going into the offseason:
1 Irving
2 Waiters
3 Gee
4 Thompson/Speights
5 Varejao/Zeller
Team Option on Miles, QO on Casspi and Ellington. They are roughly 22 million dollars under the salary cap with 8 roster spots to fill. They have 4 draft picks: 1, 19, 31, 33.
Statistical Leaders from 2012/13:
Points: Irving (22.5)
Rebounds: Thompson (9.4)- But Varejao was averaging 14 per game before his injury
Assists: Irving (5.9)
Steals: Irving (1.5)
Blocks: Zeller (0.9)
Biggest Needs: SF, Post Depth, Guard Depth
Cleveland has good, young players, though health has been an issue. Irving took the next step towards becoming a star, and yearly all-star, but he needs to up his assist totals to be mentioned in the same tier as Chris Paul and Deron Williams, to name a few. Improving his supporting cast, and adding shooters, is important for Irving's continued development. Thompson finished the season an 11/9 player. If he continues his growth, he will have been a good pick at 4- a reach (so I thought) on draft day. Varejao is mentioned in the same breath as Joakim Noah, when healthy. Waiters looks like a 6th man (another reach on draft day, in my opinion) and Gee is a solid contributor off the bench. Adding depth is important.
Free Agent fits:
Josh Smith: Smith fits the mold of a defensive player who can play the 3 or 4. They might have to overpay to get him in Cleveland, but he could help vault the team into the playoff picture for next year. He would play second fiddle to Irving, but he would most likely see similar production as he saw in Atlanta.
JJ Redick: Redick fills the need of a shooter who can play above average defense. He would stretch the floor for Irving and Varejao, and provide an accurate and steady option at the two. He likely would not cost too much either
Jarrett Jack: The Cavs could use a combo guard to spare Irving from playing long minutes, but also play with him as well. Enter Jack. The Warriors have a tighter cap situation, and he could be stolen for a slightly excessive offer. A three guard unit of Irving, Waiters and Jack would be solid.
Draft fits:
Pick 1:
Nerlens Noel- The Cavs have Varejao as a solid defensive center, and can add Noel as a high motor shot blocker who has lots of potential. Is he raw? Yes he is. But he is the best player in the draft, and should become a Cavalier.
Otto Porter- Porter is #4 on my board, but is the only other player who could go #1. SF is the weakest spot in their starting rotation, and Porter is a player who would fit in nicely. He could be a Danny Granger type scorer who plays a bit more defense if he fulfills his potential.
Pick 19:
Sergey Karasev- Karasev is a sweet shooting 3 man from Russia. He is a smart player, along the lines of a Rudy Fernandez, but less of a ball handler. Shooting is a big need for Cleveland, and Karasev would be a good addition.
Giannis Antetokoumpo- The mystery man from Greece could go here to Cleveland. Despite finishing 3rd worst, the Cavs could be in a position to use a pick to stash Antetokoumpo overseas for a few years. His physical attributes are impressive, and he has dominated the lower levels of Greek basketball (emphasis on the lower.) He could be a future starter or a bust, but Cleveland can afford to take the risk.
2nd round picks:
Nemanja Nedovic- Nedovic is a high flying combo guard from Serbia who I would take in the first round. Many boards have him slated as a second round pick, which could make him the steal of the draft. He needs to improve his ball handling and shooting stroke, but he has as much potential as many guys who will go in round 1.
CJ Leslie- Leslie is another player who could go in round 1. He is a high energy, athletic player who can play both forward positions. If he can add a mid-range jump shot to his game, he could find himself in a rotation for a long time.
What does the future look like? It is bright. Mike Brown was re-hired as the head coach (Brian Shaw would have been a better hire...), and Kyrie Irving should become a star. I fully expect the Cavs to make the playoffs in two years, and potentially grab the 7 or 8 seed next year. Forget LeBron coming back- it is not going to happen. If they stay the course they are currently on, and can avoid free agent decisions that will cripple the team for the next 4 years (see: Pistons: Gordon and Villanueva), there is no reason to think the team won't be successful.
1 Irving
2 Waiters
3 Gee
4 Thompson/Speights
5 Varejao/Zeller
Team Option on Miles, QO on Casspi and Ellington. They are roughly 22 million dollars under the salary cap with 8 roster spots to fill. They have 4 draft picks: 1, 19, 31, 33.
Statistical Leaders from 2012/13:
Points: Irving (22.5)
Rebounds: Thompson (9.4)- But Varejao was averaging 14 per game before his injury
Assists: Irving (5.9)
Steals: Irving (1.5)
Blocks: Zeller (0.9)
Biggest Needs: SF, Post Depth, Guard Depth
Cleveland has good, young players, though health has been an issue. Irving took the next step towards becoming a star, and yearly all-star, but he needs to up his assist totals to be mentioned in the same tier as Chris Paul and Deron Williams, to name a few. Improving his supporting cast, and adding shooters, is important for Irving's continued development. Thompson finished the season an 11/9 player. If he continues his growth, he will have been a good pick at 4- a reach (so I thought) on draft day. Varejao is mentioned in the same breath as Joakim Noah, when healthy. Waiters looks like a 6th man (another reach on draft day, in my opinion) and Gee is a solid contributor off the bench. Adding depth is important.
Free Agent fits:
Josh Smith: Smith fits the mold of a defensive player who can play the 3 or 4. They might have to overpay to get him in Cleveland, but he could help vault the team into the playoff picture for next year. He would play second fiddle to Irving, but he would most likely see similar production as he saw in Atlanta.
JJ Redick: Redick fills the need of a shooter who can play above average defense. He would stretch the floor for Irving and Varejao, and provide an accurate and steady option at the two. He likely would not cost too much either
Jarrett Jack: The Cavs could use a combo guard to spare Irving from playing long minutes, but also play with him as well. Enter Jack. The Warriors have a tighter cap situation, and he could be stolen for a slightly excessive offer. A three guard unit of Irving, Waiters and Jack would be solid.
Draft fits:
Pick 1:
Nerlens Noel- The Cavs have Varejao as a solid defensive center, and can add Noel as a high motor shot blocker who has lots of potential. Is he raw? Yes he is. But he is the best player in the draft, and should become a Cavalier.
Otto Porter- Porter is #4 on my board, but is the only other player who could go #1. SF is the weakest spot in their starting rotation, and Porter is a player who would fit in nicely. He could be a Danny Granger type scorer who plays a bit more defense if he fulfills his potential.
Pick 19:
Sergey Karasev- Karasev is a sweet shooting 3 man from Russia. He is a smart player, along the lines of a Rudy Fernandez, but less of a ball handler. Shooting is a big need for Cleveland, and Karasev would be a good addition.
Giannis Antetokoumpo- The mystery man from Greece could go here to Cleveland. Despite finishing 3rd worst, the Cavs could be in a position to use a pick to stash Antetokoumpo overseas for a few years. His physical attributes are impressive, and he has dominated the lower levels of Greek basketball (emphasis on the lower.) He could be a future starter or a bust, but Cleveland can afford to take the risk.
2nd round picks:
Nemanja Nedovic- Nedovic is a high flying combo guard from Serbia who I would take in the first round. Many boards have him slated as a second round pick, which could make him the steal of the draft. He needs to improve his ball handling and shooting stroke, but he has as much potential as many guys who will go in round 1.
CJ Leslie- Leslie is another player who could go in round 1. He is a high energy, athletic player who can play both forward positions. If he can add a mid-range jump shot to his game, he could find himself in a rotation for a long time.
What does the future look like? It is bright. Mike Brown was re-hired as the head coach (Brian Shaw would have been a better hire...), and Kyrie Irving should become a star. I fully expect the Cavs to make the playoffs in two years, and potentially grab the 7 or 8 seed next year. Forget LeBron coming back- it is not going to happen. If they stay the course they are currently on, and can avoid free agent decisions that will cripple the team for the next 4 years (see: Pistons: Gordon and Villanueva), there is no reason to think the team won't be successful.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
State of the Bobcats
The Bobcats finished above the Magic in the standings, but have farther to go towards becoming a playoff contender. Today, ESPN came out with their annual "future" power rankings- rate franchises based off of current players, coaches, management, cap space and draft potential- and Charlotte came in last place again. Looking at the Bobcats' roster, it makes sense. Here is their depth going into the offseason:
1 Walker/Sessions
2 Gordon
3 Kidd-Gilchrist/Taylor
4 Thomas
5 Biyombo/Haywood
In addition, they can place qualifying offers on Gerald Henderson and BJ Mullens.
Other FAs: Diop, McRoberts, Williams
They are roughly 15 million dollars under the salary cap without counting potential qualifying offers to Henderson and Mullens.
Last season's statistical leaders:
Points: Walker (17.7)
Rebounds: Biyombo (7.3)
Assists: Walker (5.7)
Steals: Walker (2.0)
Blocks: Biyombo (1.8)
Biggest Needs: PF, C, SG
Charlotte's 2 brightest futures lie in Kemba Walker and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. Walker has proven he can score at the NBA level, albeit not in the most efficient manner. MKG showed his great potential, and could be a jump shot away from becoming an All-Star in 4 years. Outside of those two, there is not much to be excited about on this roster. Jeff Taylor is cheap, and is a good defender. Ben Gordon was awful, but one more year of him results in an eventual first round pick from Detroit (they are owed a lottery protected first from Portland as soon as next year too). Here are some options for free agents that could help:
Josh Smith- Maybe Smith cares more about money than winning. Charlotte could offer Smith a bigger contract than anyone else could potentially offer (outside of ATL), and he would fit into a core of Walker, MKG and even Biyombo that plays solid defense. Smith could be the go-to guy, even if his game does not back that up. Would you be excited about a core of Walker/MKG/Smith? Maybe. Add in a good value from pick 4 and they could have a playoff contender in 2 years.
Andrew Bynum- For similar logic as Smith, no one wants to give Bynum a huge contract. He is a MAJOR risk- and his contract would have to reflect that. Charlotte is not likely to win lots next year anyways- maybe they offer a one year lucrative deal with a team option for year two. It's risky, but Michael Jordan is also in charge, so anything could happen.
Paul Millsap- Millsap would be a great value add to Charlotte. He rebounds and scores well, and does not need to be a go to player. For 4 years 36 million, they could snag him. He is not a great defender, but he is competent enough with MKG and Biyombo next to him.
Draft options:
Alex Len- The Bobcats do not have a presence to go to in the low post. Len has a high ceiling as an offensive big man, and could pair well as a target for Walker in a 2 man game.
Cody Zeller- Zeller has his skeptics, but I think he is in the same realm as the top prospects (there is a top 8 in this draft). He could end up being a 7'0" David West or even Chris Bosh. Zeller's offensive skill would help from day one.
Ben McLemore- The Bobcats need shooting. Walker, Henderson and MKG are all streaky. McLemore is a high flying shooter along the lines of a young Ray Allen. If he develops a killer mentality, he could be an All-Star one day.
What does the future look like? Bleak at the moment, but can only get better. New HC Steve Clifford was a stellar hire, and the team does have money and a high draft choice to work with. Cho is a very capable GM. Building around Walker, MKG and their first round draft choice offers a very solid, albeit young, foundation. Adding an impact free agent, and lots of depth, will help this team a lot. They are 2-3 years away, but with the right approach could show promise that hasn't been seen since the team originally left for New Orleans.
1 Walker/Sessions
2 Gordon
3 Kidd-Gilchrist/Taylor
4 Thomas
5 Biyombo/Haywood
In addition, they can place qualifying offers on Gerald Henderson and BJ Mullens.
Other FAs: Diop, McRoberts, Williams
They are roughly 15 million dollars under the salary cap without counting potential qualifying offers to Henderson and Mullens.
Last season's statistical leaders:
Points: Walker (17.7)
Rebounds: Biyombo (7.3)
Assists: Walker (5.7)
Steals: Walker (2.0)
Blocks: Biyombo (1.8)
Biggest Needs: PF, C, SG
Charlotte's 2 brightest futures lie in Kemba Walker and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. Walker has proven he can score at the NBA level, albeit not in the most efficient manner. MKG showed his great potential, and could be a jump shot away from becoming an All-Star in 4 years. Outside of those two, there is not much to be excited about on this roster. Jeff Taylor is cheap, and is a good defender. Ben Gordon was awful, but one more year of him results in an eventual first round pick from Detroit (they are owed a lottery protected first from Portland as soon as next year too). Here are some options for free agents that could help:
Josh Smith- Maybe Smith cares more about money than winning. Charlotte could offer Smith a bigger contract than anyone else could potentially offer (outside of ATL), and he would fit into a core of Walker, MKG and even Biyombo that plays solid defense. Smith could be the go-to guy, even if his game does not back that up. Would you be excited about a core of Walker/MKG/Smith? Maybe. Add in a good value from pick 4 and they could have a playoff contender in 2 years.
Andrew Bynum- For similar logic as Smith, no one wants to give Bynum a huge contract. He is a MAJOR risk- and his contract would have to reflect that. Charlotte is not likely to win lots next year anyways- maybe they offer a one year lucrative deal with a team option for year two. It's risky, but Michael Jordan is also in charge, so anything could happen.
Paul Millsap- Millsap would be a great value add to Charlotte. He rebounds and scores well, and does not need to be a go to player. For 4 years 36 million, they could snag him. He is not a great defender, but he is competent enough with MKG and Biyombo next to him.
Draft options:
Alex Len- The Bobcats do not have a presence to go to in the low post. Len has a high ceiling as an offensive big man, and could pair well as a target for Walker in a 2 man game.
Cody Zeller- Zeller has his skeptics, but I think he is in the same realm as the top prospects (there is a top 8 in this draft). He could end up being a 7'0" David West or even Chris Bosh. Zeller's offensive skill would help from day one.
Ben McLemore- The Bobcats need shooting. Walker, Henderson and MKG are all streaky. McLemore is a high flying shooter along the lines of a young Ray Allen. If he develops a killer mentality, he could be an All-Star one day.
What does the future look like? Bleak at the moment, but can only get better. New HC Steve Clifford was a stellar hire, and the team does have money and a high draft choice to work with. Cho is a very capable GM. Building around Walker, MKG and their first round draft choice offers a very solid, albeit young, foundation. Adding an impact free agent, and lots of depth, will help this team a lot. They are 2-3 years away, but with the right approach could show promise that hasn't been seen since the team originally left for New Orleans.
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