So I had an idea for an "Ultimate draft" taking multiple first rounds and mixing them into 1 so you got the absolute best players from those drafts.
For the first edition of this exprimental blog, I decided to go for 2001-2005. The 06 and 07 drafts are too early to judge, but with 01-05 you still get a lot of great to solid players and they're still young so its like you could still draft them today, if that makes any sense.
Lets go with the top pick of the 01-01 "Ultimate draft"
1. LeBron James, St. Vincent-St. Mary HS (Ohio) (Cleveland)
Can't deny that LeBron is probably the most valuable player drafted over this 5 year time period. He wouldn't go number one in every draft, but over these 5 I can't see anyone going higher than him. If I were to include '07 I might have to put Greg Oden ahead of him, but there was no center, not even Yao, that could compete with the hype and ability of LeBron.
2. Dwight Howard, SW Atlanta Christian Aca. (Orlando)
Another high schooler. Before this year I might not have put him this high, but with his big breakout season I can't deny that Howard looks like a guy who will have a ring someday. He only just turned 22 this season but Howard is averaging 22 and 15. Amazing numbers this day in age now matter how old or experienced you are. He's averaged a double-double every year he's been in the league and has shot 60 percent the last two seasons. He would deservedly get some votes to go ahead of LeBron.
3. Yao Ming, China (Houston)
Can't deny the big men. Thats what this league is about. And its so rare to find a guy thats 7-6 that moves down the court as well as he does. Averaging about 22 and 10 the last 3 years, he's still just 27-years-old and I still expect that at some point Ming will equal wins for some team out there.
4. Amare Stoudemire, Cypress Creek HS (Fla.) (Phoenix)
There's a lot of talk about the high school "busts" of the new era in the NBA, but this is the 3rd high schooler in the top 4. At 6'10 and 25-years-old Amare has busted onto the scene as one of the best centers in the league. He's also shown he can stay healthy after playing just 3 games three years ago. He might not get back to that 26 ppg he averaged the year before he got injured, but it may have helped his all-around game as he now shoots close to 60 percent.
5. Dwyane Wade, Marquette (Miami)
Give it up to the first college player drafted and the first player on this list who already has a ring. Unlike Stoudemire, he has not been great at showing he can overcome devastating injury, but he's still one of the top young players in the league having averaged better than 24 points per game for the last 4 seasons. He's also an underrated all-around guy who averages almost 5 rebounds and better than 6 assists per game for his career. Has a Kobe-esque jumpshot that you just expect will go in when he shoots it.
6. Chris Paul, Wake Forest (New Orleans)
Maybe I'm jumping on the bandwagon a little too quickly? All I know is that Paul is probably the best pure point guard drafted since 2001 and now has the Hornets near the top in the West which is an unbelievable accomplishment. Averaging 21 points and 10 assists, there is no telling just how good Paul will be and he's just 22.
7. Carmelo Anthony, Syracuse (Denver)
'Melo gets the All-Star start and the 7th spot in my draft. A prolific scorer, Anthony has never averaged less than 20 ppg in a season and hit a career high of 28.9 last year despite playing with AI for a good part of the year. He's also grabbing a career high 7 boards per game this year. I would recommend though that a guy who shoots about 28 percent from 3-point land stop shooting more than 2 a game.
8. Josh Smith, Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) (Atlanta)
A personal favorite of mine, he still an unknown to most people out there as far as what he can do. 18 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals per game and he just turned 22 in December. Smith has only just touched the surface of what he can do and I firmly believe he'll win a couple defensive player of the year awards. If he ever disciplines himself and can shoot better than 43 percent per game he could also easily be a 25 point scorer. Not to mention his slam dunk trophy and amazing hops.
9. Josh Howard, Wake Forest (Dallas)
Howard was a steal at 29 for the Mavs and he just keeps getting better. His numbers might not be as sexy as some of the other guys, but this is a 20-point scorer with a Finals appearance under his belt. He can score from anywhere on the court and he also grabs 7.5 rebounds per.
10. Pau Gasol, Spain (Atlanta)
He seems like the old man of the bunch but don't sleep on Pau. He's a guaranteed 20 and 9 and he's only 27. Atlanta may not have been in such dire straits if they had just held onto this guy. Oh well, live and learn.
11. Chris Bosh, Georgia Tech (Toronto)
He may not have gotten the AllStar vote but he gets my vote as a lottery pick in this ultimate draft. Bosh is young (23) and has averaged 22 and 10 over the last 3 seasons. He's been on a tear this January, averaging 27 ppg, trying to prove his better than just your average run-of-the-mill AllStar power forward.
12. Deron Williams, Illinois (Utah)
Utah will always be questioned for drafting Williams over Paul, you certainly wouldn't think it would be done today, but then again some people still like Williams game more. And what's not to like about it? 19 ppg and 9 apg this season and he's only 23. And the Jazz are finally winning again.
13. Chris Kaman, Central Michigan (L.A. Clippers)
This is definitely where it starts to get tougher to make picks, but I have to take a center here who is finally breaking out of his shell. Kaman showed promise two years ago when he averaged 12 points and 9 boards, but he's really found himself now that he's all alone in the middle. He has broken through with 17 and 14 per and he's only 25.
14. Joe Johnson, Arkansas (Boston)
It took 3 years for Johnson to finally get going in the NBA, but over the last 3 he's been one of the top all-around players in the league. He's 26-year-old and he was an all-star last year when he averaged 25 per game. The only thing left to prove is whether or not he's a winner.
15. Tony Parker, France (San Antonio)
On the other end of the spectrum is Parker who has been a winner, but is he a baller? His stats get better every year, and he's averaging a career high 19 ppg this season, and he has those 3 rings, but you gotta believe Duncan has something to do with that. Still, a good spot here for anyone at 15.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I have not been here and I apologize, although I dont think anyone would read this, why would you, I have had no time to update this thing.
But I did want to point out my new MOVIE blog just for the hell of it.
http://kennyknowsmovies.blogspot.com/
But I did want to point out my new MOVIE blog just for the hell of it.
http://kennyknowsmovies.blogspot.com/
Sunday, November 18, 2007
NFL: Contenders OR Pretenders?
If the NFL season ended today the playoffs would look like this:
AFC
New England
Indianapolis
Pittsburgh
San Diego
Jacksonville
Cleveland
NFC
Dallas
Green Bay
Seattle
Tampa Bay
New York
Detroit
So, who is for real and who isn't?
New England
The Patriots are by far the best team in the NFL. Now and maybe ever. I mean, if the Pats had a 4th and 40, would you doubt that they would make it, or that they wouldn't? They were beating opponents by 23 points per game before they beat the Bills 56-10 tonight. They seem to be a perfect machine.
but... Over the last 3 seasons, the Steelers (15-1,) Colts (14-2,) Chargers (14-2,) and Ravens (13-3,) have a combined 1 playoff win between the years they had those dominating AFC regular season records. Of course, none of those teams seem to be as good as the Pats, but will complacency set in after their bye week? I can make a pretty good argument that they won't go undefeated, but I can't make a good argument that they won't make the Super Bowl. They are really good.
Indianapolis
They lost to the Pats, then were worn out playing on the road against a very talented (but not good) Chargers team. They are the top team in the NFL's best division and that says a lot. They have done almost all of this without their hall-of-fame wideout Marvin Harrison.
but... Harrison still isn't healthy. And neither are a lot of other Colts. I can explain their two losses, but I can't rationalize needing a last second field goal to beat the Chiefs at home. The road to the Super Bowl goes through New England... will the Colts have anything left in the tank after their brutal divisional schedule?
Pittsburgh
They feature the league's best defense and Big Ben is having his Best Season. At times the black and gold look as good as they did in their Super Bowl season. Any time you can stop the other team from scoring, you're going to have a chance to play deep in January.
but... They lost to the Jets. After seeing their loss to the (formerly) 1-8 Jets, it opens your eyes to the rest of the schedule. Their other losses are to the Cardinals (at home) and the Broncos... two teams who have not looked playoff worthy at all. And their best wins are over the Browns and Seahawks. We won't know how good this team is until they play the Pats in 3 weeks. My guess? Not that good.
San Diego
It doesn't matter how you get there, as long as you get there. They've got the best player in football (LT) and some other good pieces around him. Merriman, and a rising Antonio Cromartie are key young pieces on the defense. They have big play ability on both sides.
but... In all fairness, the Jags are an excellent football team. But at 5-5, San Diego is a lucky "playoff" team. They've only got one good win (Indy) and two really bad losses (Chiefs at home, Minnesota.) The Chargers should win just enough to squeak in and get a home game, whether they'll make round 2 has yet to be seen.
Jacksonville
The Jags are a TEAM, they have the chemistry that teams like San Diego lack. They overcame the loss of QB David Garrard for 3 games (and went 2-1) and he returned today, coming out of a win over San Diego still turnover-free on the season. They run the ball down your throat and then stuff you on defense. If there is a team that can upset the Pats in the playoffs, I think it could be the Jags.
but... Going into this weeks game the Jags leading receiver was Dennis Northcutt at 36 yards per game. Yikes. Despite drafting Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, and Ernest Wilford, nobody has become the Jags go-to receiver. With 5 TD catches, Williams has looked brilliant at times, but it is a fleeting brilliance, only showing up for seconds at a time. If they find themselves down more than 1 score in the fourth quarter, what chance do they have to mount a comeback?
Cleveland
Holy CRAP! Who thought we'd ever be talking about the Browns as a playoff team? Maybe in a year or two, but not now. They put up points, points, points, despite Jamal Lewis being a shadow of his former self. Derek Anderson has made everybody forget about Brady Hunch(back of Notre Dame. Get it? I know, its a bit of a stretch.) Braylon Edwards may now be one of the top WR in the league and Kellen Winslow may be the top TE.
but... Oh yes there is a but. The defense is atrocious. Even though they score 28 a game, the still give up more than they score. And they lost to Oakland for god sakes. They should have lost to the Seahawks, they thought they lost to the Ravens, and they have come up empty against the Steelers, the team they trail in the North. The Browns are this close from either being 8-2 or 2-8. But if they make the playoffs, throw it all out the window. They have first round upset written all over them.
AFC
New England
Indianapolis
Pittsburgh
San Diego
Jacksonville
Cleveland
NFC
Dallas
Green Bay
Seattle
Tampa Bay
New York
Detroit
So, who is for real and who isn't?
New England
The Patriots are by far the best team in the NFL. Now and maybe ever. I mean, if the Pats had a 4th and 40, would you doubt that they would make it, or that they wouldn't? They were beating opponents by 23 points per game before they beat the Bills 56-10 tonight. They seem to be a perfect machine.
but... Over the last 3 seasons, the Steelers (15-1,) Colts (14-2,) Chargers (14-2,) and Ravens (13-3,) have a combined 1 playoff win between the years they had those dominating AFC regular season records. Of course, none of those teams seem to be as good as the Pats, but will complacency set in after their bye week? I can make a pretty good argument that they won't go undefeated, but I can't make a good argument that they won't make the Super Bowl. They are really good.
Indianapolis
They lost to the Pats, then were worn out playing on the road against a very talented (but not good) Chargers team. They are the top team in the NFL's best division and that says a lot. They have done almost all of this without their hall-of-fame wideout Marvin Harrison.
but... Harrison still isn't healthy. And neither are a lot of other Colts. I can explain their two losses, but I can't rationalize needing a last second field goal to beat the Chiefs at home. The road to the Super Bowl goes through New England... will the Colts have anything left in the tank after their brutal divisional schedule?
Pittsburgh
They feature the league's best defense and Big Ben is having his Best Season. At times the black and gold look as good as they did in their Super Bowl season. Any time you can stop the other team from scoring, you're going to have a chance to play deep in January.
but... They lost to the Jets. After seeing their loss to the (formerly) 1-8 Jets, it opens your eyes to the rest of the schedule. Their other losses are to the Cardinals (at home) and the Broncos... two teams who have not looked playoff worthy at all. And their best wins are over the Browns and Seahawks. We won't know how good this team is until they play the Pats in 3 weeks. My guess? Not that good.
San Diego
It doesn't matter how you get there, as long as you get there. They've got the best player in football (LT) and some other good pieces around him. Merriman, and a rising Antonio Cromartie are key young pieces on the defense. They have big play ability on both sides.
but... In all fairness, the Jags are an excellent football team. But at 5-5, San Diego is a lucky "playoff" team. They've only got one good win (Indy) and two really bad losses (Chiefs at home, Minnesota.) The Chargers should win just enough to squeak in and get a home game, whether they'll make round 2 has yet to be seen.
Jacksonville
The Jags are a TEAM, they have the chemistry that teams like San Diego lack. They overcame the loss of QB David Garrard for 3 games (and went 2-1) and he returned today, coming out of a win over San Diego still turnover-free on the season. They run the ball down your throat and then stuff you on defense. If there is a team that can upset the Pats in the playoffs, I think it could be the Jags.
but... Going into this weeks game the Jags leading receiver was Dennis Northcutt at 36 yards per game. Yikes. Despite drafting Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, and Ernest Wilford, nobody has become the Jags go-to receiver. With 5 TD catches, Williams has looked brilliant at times, but it is a fleeting brilliance, only showing up for seconds at a time. If they find themselves down more than 1 score in the fourth quarter, what chance do they have to mount a comeback?
Cleveland
Holy CRAP! Who thought we'd ever be talking about the Browns as a playoff team? Maybe in a year or two, but not now. They put up points, points, points, despite Jamal Lewis being a shadow of his former self. Derek Anderson has made everybody forget about Brady Hunch(back of Notre Dame. Get it? I know, its a bit of a stretch.) Braylon Edwards may now be one of the top WR in the league and Kellen Winslow may be the top TE.
but... Oh yes there is a but. The defense is atrocious. Even though they score 28 a game, the still give up more than they score. And they lost to Oakland for god sakes. They should have lost to the Seahawks, they thought they lost to the Ravens, and they have come up empty against the Steelers, the team they trail in the North. The Browns are this close from either being 8-2 or 2-8. But if they make the playoffs, throw it all out the window. They have first round upset written all over them.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
NBA Power Rankings, v2.0
I'm back with some rankings of power in the NBA.
1. San Antonio Spurs - What's nice about being the champs? Well, besides just being the champs (which is also nice) it keeps the Spurs on the top of the rankings until they do something to prove they aren't the best anymore. At 5-1, they're still the best. They allow 88 points per game, good for 2nd in the NBA. Why do the Spurs always win besides playing such a boring style of b-ball? Discipline. A league-low 12 turnovers per contest. (Last week: 1)
2. Houston Rockets - If being the champ means you're number one, then beating the champ should count for something too. Their defense is still clickin and clackin, plus for 6 games its so far so good on the health of T-Mac and Ming. This is a championship-type squad with Ming and McGrady on the floor together... they still have some holes though. Despite having a plethora of point guards, none are very good. Mike James shoots 35 percent, Rafer Alston shoots 31 percent, and Steve Francis doesn't shoot at all. (He hasn't played yet this season.) A mid-season trade can always fix that, and the Rockets could ship off any one of those point guards, Bonzi Wells, or Luis Scola in exchange for a vet PG. (4)
3. Boston Celtics - Okay, so I was off a bit on the Celtics. The C's and the big 3 are 5-0, and won their first foru games by an average of 18 points per game. They beat the Nets by 11 tonight and show just how ahead of the rest of the East they are. The key is to stay healthy, but I can't predict or worry about their health at this point. For 5 games Allen, Pierce, and Garnett have not gotten hurt, so let's just leave it at that. These guys are good. (9)
1. San Antonio Spurs - What's nice about being the champs? Well, besides just being the champs (which is also nice) it keeps the Spurs on the top of the rankings until they do something to prove they aren't the best anymore. At 5-1, they're still the best. They allow 88 points per game, good for 2nd in the NBA. Why do the Spurs always win besides playing such a boring style of b-ball? Discipline. A league-low 12 turnovers per contest. (Last week: 1)
2. Houston Rockets - If being the champ means you're number one, then beating the champ should count for something too. Their defense is still clickin and clackin, plus for 6 games its so far so good on the health of T-Mac and Ming. This is a championship-type squad with Ming and McGrady on the floor together... they still have some holes though. Despite having a plethora of point guards, none are very good. Mike James shoots 35 percent, Rafer Alston shoots 31 percent, and Steve Francis doesn't shoot at all. (He hasn't played yet this season.) A mid-season trade can always fix that, and the Rockets could ship off any one of those point guards, Bonzi Wells, or Luis Scola in exchange for a vet PG. (4)
3. Boston Celtics - Okay, so I was off a bit on the Celtics. The C's and the big 3 are 5-0, and won their first foru games by an average of 18 points per game. They beat the Nets by 11 tonight and show just how ahead of the rest of the East they are. The key is to stay healthy, but I can't predict or worry about their health at this point. For 5 games Allen, Pierce, and Garnett have not gotten hurt, so let's just leave it at that. These guys are good. (9)
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Swamped
I want to thank people that be readin and checkin up on the blog. I have two jobs now, my third job (this blog) has had to sit on the back burner. I'm still here though and will write any chance I get. Still got to update the NFL Power Rankings and NBA Power Rankings. Other crap to do to.
Be back ASAP.
Be back ASAP.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
NFL Week 9 Picks
Here are the winners for week 9
Atlanta over San Francisco
The Falcons will start Joey Harrington against the Niners. Whether or not that's a good thing remains to be seen, but both of these franchises are struggling. The Niners offense is just so bad (last in the league) and the Falcons are at home.
Atl 16, SF 10
Tampa Bay over Arizona
Another matchup of not-so-good teams. Both have lost two straight after starting the season off on the right foot. Arizona is ranked 11th on offense and 10th on defense, but Tampa's 8th ranked defense will get to QB Kurt Warner and force Tim Rattay to take too many snaps for an offense he doesn't know too well.
Tampa 17, AZ 14
Washington over NY Jets
Even though the Skins just got beat down by the Pats, the Jets plain suck. Washington has a rebound on defense and takes this game easily.
WAS 31, NY Jets 14
New Orleans over Jacksonville
The Jags may have won on the road with Quinn Gray last week, but it won't be as easy today. The Saints have won 3 straight and could be back in first place by the end of the day. Drew Brees gets his TD's back on the northside of his INT's by tossing 2 scores and zero interceptions.
NO 27, Jax 17
San Diego over Minnesota
The Chargers can get to the midway point at 5-3, not bad after a 1-3 start. And pretty much as good as they can hope for after a pretty tough schedule to start the year. The Chargers have a good run defense, enough to shut down Adrian Peterson all day. Philip Rivers tosses 4 TD passes in the game, 2 to Antonio Gates.
SD 36, Min 16
Tennessee over Carolina
As bad as the Titans offense has been, they just find ways to win. Vince Young is a microcosm of that affect. The Titans are 29th in the NFL in passing but still find ways to score just enough points to get the W. David Carr returns as the starter for Carolina, but will get tortured by the Titans D.
Ten 19, Car 7
Buffalo over Cincy
The Bengals have just been sucking. Won't stop here as they travel to Buffalo, a team that was 3 of 4. JP Losman returns as starter, and he hooks up with Lee Evans twice on long scores as the Bills score their most points of the season in a shootout.
Buf 41, Cin 39
Kansas City over Green Bay
On paper the Chiefs certainly don't look like a 4-3 team, but here they are anyway. They score just 14 points a contest, but the defense has stepped up when needed and KC has won 4 of 5. Green Bay is coming off a big win in Denver, but will they have enough energy to win two AFC West road games with just 5 days rest?
KC 20, GB 13
Seattle over Cleveland
I love to watch the Browns play, they score a lot and give up a lot. No better cure for the Seahawks struggling offense than a bye week and facing the leagues last ranked defense. Could be a lot of fireworks in this one, but the Hawks have an underrated defense. If they could just stop teams on long downs, they would show just how good they can be. Don't know where Lofa Tatupu has been this season, but he should show up at some point.
Sea 30, Cle 23
Oakland over Houston
My only reasoning for this pick is that the Raiders are at home. They can run the ball, and Josh McCown is back starting for Oakland, so maybe that will be enough to spark the offense.
Oak 20, Houston 17
New England over Indy
I've been telling friends all week that Indy will win this game, but if you asked me to bet everything I had on one team, I can't pick against the Pats. They have just been too good this year. I think that Indianapolis has enough to challenge them and make it a great game, and the Colts are at home and they have won 12 straight, or whatever, and beaten the Pats 3 straight.... but I'll still go with New England.
NE 31, Indy 30
Dallas over Philly
Dallas is just a much better team. Philly has too many off-the-field and on-the-field issues. McNabb might show up on Sunday night, that is their only chance at winning this football game. That and Brian Westbrook.
Dal 28, Phi 20
Pittsburgh over Baltimore
Before the season I never would have guessed this would be my pick, but the Steelers beat the Ravens in a blowout. Pittsburgh already had the better offense, but now they have the better defense too. Baltimore just can't score any points and the defense isn't as unstoppable as it once was. Not even close.
Pit 34, Bal 6
Atlanta over San Francisco
The Falcons will start Joey Harrington against the Niners. Whether or not that's a good thing remains to be seen, but both of these franchises are struggling. The Niners offense is just so bad (last in the league) and the Falcons are at home.
Atl 16, SF 10
Tampa Bay over Arizona
Another matchup of not-so-good teams. Both have lost two straight after starting the season off on the right foot. Arizona is ranked 11th on offense and 10th on defense, but Tampa's 8th ranked defense will get to QB Kurt Warner and force Tim Rattay to take too many snaps for an offense he doesn't know too well.
Tampa 17, AZ 14
Washington over NY Jets
Even though the Skins just got beat down by the Pats, the Jets plain suck. Washington has a rebound on defense and takes this game easily.
WAS 31, NY Jets 14
New Orleans over Jacksonville
The Jags may have won on the road with Quinn Gray last week, but it won't be as easy today. The Saints have won 3 straight and could be back in first place by the end of the day. Drew Brees gets his TD's back on the northside of his INT's by tossing 2 scores and zero interceptions.
NO 27, Jax 17
San Diego over Minnesota
The Chargers can get to the midway point at 5-3, not bad after a 1-3 start. And pretty much as good as they can hope for after a pretty tough schedule to start the year. The Chargers have a good run defense, enough to shut down Adrian Peterson all day. Philip Rivers tosses 4 TD passes in the game, 2 to Antonio Gates.
SD 36, Min 16
Tennessee over Carolina
As bad as the Titans offense has been, they just find ways to win. Vince Young is a microcosm of that affect. The Titans are 29th in the NFL in passing but still find ways to score just enough points to get the W. David Carr returns as the starter for Carolina, but will get tortured by the Titans D.
Ten 19, Car 7
Buffalo over Cincy
The Bengals have just been sucking. Won't stop here as they travel to Buffalo, a team that was 3 of 4. JP Losman returns as starter, and he hooks up with Lee Evans twice on long scores as the Bills score their most points of the season in a shootout.
Buf 41, Cin 39
Kansas City over Green Bay
On paper the Chiefs certainly don't look like a 4-3 team, but here they are anyway. They score just 14 points a contest, but the defense has stepped up when needed and KC has won 4 of 5. Green Bay is coming off a big win in Denver, but will they have enough energy to win two AFC West road games with just 5 days rest?
KC 20, GB 13
Seattle over Cleveland
I love to watch the Browns play, they score a lot and give up a lot. No better cure for the Seahawks struggling offense than a bye week and facing the leagues last ranked defense. Could be a lot of fireworks in this one, but the Hawks have an underrated defense. If they could just stop teams on long downs, they would show just how good they can be. Don't know where Lofa Tatupu has been this season, but he should show up at some point.
Sea 30, Cle 23
Oakland over Houston
My only reasoning for this pick is that the Raiders are at home. They can run the ball, and Josh McCown is back starting for Oakland, so maybe that will be enough to spark the offense.
Oak 20, Houston 17
New England over Indy
I've been telling friends all week that Indy will win this game, but if you asked me to bet everything I had on one team, I can't pick against the Pats. They have just been too good this year. I think that Indianapolis has enough to challenge them and make it a great game, and the Colts are at home and they have won 12 straight, or whatever, and beaten the Pats 3 straight.... but I'll still go with New England.
NE 31, Indy 30
Dallas over Philly
Dallas is just a much better team. Philly has too many off-the-field and on-the-field issues. McNabb might show up on Sunday night, that is their only chance at winning this football game. That and Brian Westbrook.
Dal 28, Phi 20
Pittsburgh over Baltimore
Before the season I never would have guessed this would be my pick, but the Steelers beat the Ravens in a blowout. Pittsburgh already had the better offense, but now they have the better defense too. Baltimore just can't score any points and the defense isn't as unstoppable as it once was. Not even close.
Pit 34, Bal 6
Friday, November 2, 2007
A Way to Early Look at the 2007 NBA Rookie Class
No player should be evaluated this early in their career, whether it be 2 games or 0, but I'll do it anyway. Because we forget about a draft class so soon, that it helps to have a reminder.
1. Greg Oden, Portland
It's going to be a long year for Oden and the Blazers. The anticipation is just getting more intense and the longer we wait the less we'll care. You can't let fans forget about you and a year off is a long time. He showed what he could do at Ohio State, and I fully believe he can do the same in the NBA, but we may not know for sure for quite some time. It's a shame.
2. Kevin Durant, Seattle
Consensus selection 1A, Kevin Durant is already showing he is a special kid. He'll probably score above 20 per game this season, something that is rare for a rookie (especially a rookie SG) and on top of that he has already shown the poise of Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady. Knocking down a clutch 3 against Phoenix without even thinking about it. He has killer instinct and a hell of a jumpshot. KD is already a superstar in this league.
3. Al Horford, Atlanta
Horford, the baby faced kid from Puerto Rico, played in limited action against the Mavs tonight but was a force in the upset over Dallas. In just 11 minutes, Horford picked up 9 points, 10 rebounds and a block. He also picked up 5 fouls, something he'll have to work on. But he certainly doesn't have to work on his double-double ability. If he can get that close to a double-double in just 11 minutes think of what he'll do when he plays 30. A special talent, could be the first time one of their lottery picks paid off.
4. Mike Conley Jr, Memphis
Hasn't played yet, inactive for the first game. Not sure what this is about, but the Buckeye duo in the top two isn't off to a great start.
5. Jeff Green, Seattle
Hasn't shot well, hasn't contributed much, doesn't look all that ready. So, he's a normal rookie.
6. Yi Jianlian, Milwuakee
Yi earned a starting spot but hasn't done especially much in his first two games. He only played 15 minutes tonight, while backup Charlie Villenueva contributed 14 and 7 off the bench. Don't know why those two just don't switch spots.
7. Corey Brewer, Minnesota
In the preseason he was a player to be reckoned with on defense. Still working on that shot, but once he gets there he could be a good pro.
8. Brandan Wright, Golden State
Like Patrick O'Bryant, spending much of his time on the bench and will either play in the D-League or pickup a lot of DNP - Coaches Decisions in the box scores. Don't know why that seems to always happen with Warriors, but Marco Belinelli will be the GS rookie ready to contribute. Wright should have no impact this year, unless the Warriors fall out of the playoff race and move completely to a youth movement.
9. Joakim Noah, Chicago
I personally have never liked Noah's game. I think he was overrated at Florida and probably drafted too high. In Chicago, he won't score much won't rebound much and will play behind Tyrus Thomas for as long as the two are both Bulls. Hasn't played this season because of an ankle injury.
10. Spencer Hawes, Sacramento
Injury strikes again for a center. Something tells me that Sac-Town and Hawes will never be a happy marriage. I don't know why, but I just get the feeling Hawes will be one of those lottery picks you'll see elsewhere in a couple years.
11. Acie Law IV, Atlanta
The Hawks really WANT him to be the man at PG, but his 14 minutes against Dallas tonight were just so-so. Not any competition there with Speedy Claxton injured.
12. Thaddeus Young, Philly
DNP - Coaches Decision
It's always hard to tell what this means, but I'm guessing Young just wasn't ready. Minor injury perhaps.
13. Julian Wright, New Orleans
Played ten minutes, had 4 and 3 against the Blazers and the Hornets are 2-0. That teams goes really deep on the bench, but Wright could be a great contribute for New Orleans this season and develop from there on out.
14. Al Thornton, LA Clipshow
The last official lottery pick, Thornton played limited minutes in the Clippers win tonight. You gotta think with all those injuries that Thornton will get a lot of time, but you gotta prove you belong.
Let's face it, being a first round pick in the NBA is not the same as it is in the NFL. Many lottery picks "bust" but the truth is you can only expect a lot out of guys drafted in the top 4 or 5. And sometimes you can't even expect a whole lot out of the top pick because the draft class can be that weak. (Kenyon Martin, Michael Olowakandi.)
The draft class here is definitely strong. With the NBA age rule going into affect, players like Oden and Durant were forced to wait a year, and the Florida kids also decided to come out this year instead of last. I'd say for 2007, you can probably expect greatness out of the top 9 or 10. I mean, I just said I don't like Noah's game, but I think a lot of people are expecting him to be an All-Star. Not me, but a lot of people. And Spencer Hawes definitely has the phyzical gifts to be special.
We all know what Durant can do and what Oden is capable of, but it is really early and we have no idea what to expect. I know for sure that a 2nd-round pick will be a huge steal, as well as some mid-to-late first rounders. Only time will tell.
1. Greg Oden, Portland
It's going to be a long year for Oden and the Blazers. The anticipation is just getting more intense and the longer we wait the less we'll care. You can't let fans forget about you and a year off is a long time. He showed what he could do at Ohio State, and I fully believe he can do the same in the NBA, but we may not know for sure for quite some time. It's a shame.
2. Kevin Durant, Seattle
Consensus selection 1A, Kevin Durant is already showing he is a special kid. He'll probably score above 20 per game this season, something that is rare for a rookie (especially a rookie SG) and on top of that he has already shown the poise of Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady. Knocking down a clutch 3 against Phoenix without even thinking about it. He has killer instinct and a hell of a jumpshot. KD is already a superstar in this league.
3. Al Horford, Atlanta
Horford, the baby faced kid from Puerto Rico, played in limited action against the Mavs tonight but was a force in the upset over Dallas. In just 11 minutes, Horford picked up 9 points, 10 rebounds and a block. He also picked up 5 fouls, something he'll have to work on. But he certainly doesn't have to work on his double-double ability. If he can get that close to a double-double in just 11 minutes think of what he'll do when he plays 30. A special talent, could be the first time one of their lottery picks paid off.
4. Mike Conley Jr, Memphis
Hasn't played yet, inactive for the first game. Not sure what this is about, but the Buckeye duo in the top two isn't off to a great start.
5. Jeff Green, Seattle
Hasn't shot well, hasn't contributed much, doesn't look all that ready. So, he's a normal rookie.
6. Yi Jianlian, Milwuakee
Yi earned a starting spot but hasn't done especially much in his first two games. He only played 15 minutes tonight, while backup Charlie Villenueva contributed 14 and 7 off the bench. Don't know why those two just don't switch spots.
7. Corey Brewer, Minnesota
In the preseason he was a player to be reckoned with on defense. Still working on that shot, but once he gets there he could be a good pro.
8. Brandan Wright, Golden State
Like Patrick O'Bryant, spending much of his time on the bench and will either play in the D-League or pickup a lot of DNP - Coaches Decisions in the box scores. Don't know why that seems to always happen with Warriors, but Marco Belinelli will be the GS rookie ready to contribute. Wright should have no impact this year, unless the Warriors fall out of the playoff race and move completely to a youth movement.
9. Joakim Noah, Chicago
I personally have never liked Noah's game. I think he was overrated at Florida and probably drafted too high. In Chicago, he won't score much won't rebound much and will play behind Tyrus Thomas for as long as the two are both Bulls. Hasn't played this season because of an ankle injury.
10. Spencer Hawes, Sacramento
Injury strikes again for a center. Something tells me that Sac-Town and Hawes will never be a happy marriage. I don't know why, but I just get the feeling Hawes will be one of those lottery picks you'll see elsewhere in a couple years.
11. Acie Law IV, Atlanta
The Hawks really WANT him to be the man at PG, but his 14 minutes against Dallas tonight were just so-so. Not any competition there with Speedy Claxton injured.
12. Thaddeus Young, Philly
DNP - Coaches Decision
It's always hard to tell what this means, but I'm guessing Young just wasn't ready. Minor injury perhaps.
13. Julian Wright, New Orleans
Played ten minutes, had 4 and 3 against the Blazers and the Hornets are 2-0. That teams goes really deep on the bench, but Wright could be a great contribute for New Orleans this season and develop from there on out.
14. Al Thornton, LA Clipshow
The last official lottery pick, Thornton played limited minutes in the Clippers win tonight. You gotta think with all those injuries that Thornton will get a lot of time, but you gotta prove you belong.
Let's face it, being a first round pick in the NBA is not the same as it is in the NFL. Many lottery picks "bust" but the truth is you can only expect a lot out of guys drafted in the top 4 or 5. And sometimes you can't even expect a whole lot out of the top pick because the draft class can be that weak. (Kenyon Martin, Michael Olowakandi.)
The draft class here is definitely strong. With the NBA age rule going into affect, players like Oden and Durant were forced to wait a year, and the Florida kids also decided to come out this year instead of last. I'd say for 2007, you can probably expect greatness out of the top 9 or 10. I mean, I just said I don't like Noah's game, but I think a lot of people are expecting him to be an All-Star. Not me, but a lot of people. And Spencer Hawes definitely has the phyzical gifts to be special.
We all know what Durant can do and what Oden is capable of, but it is really early and we have no idea what to expect. I know for sure that a 2nd-round pick will be a huge steal, as well as some mid-to-late first rounders. Only time will tell.
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