NBA Post Bubble - Draft & Offseason

[adkindo]

Since the season has ended, and the NBA offseason is a crazy animal independent of games, I thought we should have a new thread focused on all of the rumors, mock drafts, and transactions that will be taking place over the next few months that will shape the upcoming season on the court.

2020 NBA free agency: An updated look at the top 75 players on the market (https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2020-nba-free-agency-an-updated-look-at-the-top-75-players-on-the-market/)

CBS Sports 2020 NBA Mock Draft (https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2020-nba-mock-draft-anthony-edwards-moves-up-to-no-2-goes-to-the-warriors-behind-no-1-pick-lamelo-ball/)

SI NBA Mock Draft 7.0 (https://www.si.com/nba/2020/10/14/nba-mock-draft-projections-post-finals)

NBADraft.net 2020 Mock Draft (https://www.nbadraft.net/nba-mock-drafts/)

Tankathon 2020 NBA Mock Draft (http://www.tankathon.com/mock_draft)

[M2]

I will deem any team that drafts Saddiq Bey to be extremely smart and any team that drafts LaMelo Ball to be in for a season of misery.

[Assembly Hall]

I will deem any team that drafts Saddiq Bey to be extremely smart and any team that drafts LaMelo Ball to be in for a season of misery.

Why is there so much love for Ball? I don't get it.

[adkindo]

Why is there so much love for Ball? I don't get it.

it is based on "upside"...."potential"....all the things that drive NBA drafting strategies. The way I view it is in the NBA you can be the "smartest" FO in the league in regards to drafting.....accumulate a roster full of players that are not "busts" and be the 4th or 5th seed every year. On the flip side, your FO can be a joke, but if they are able to accumulate 1 or 2 "special" players they can contend for championships. Of all the players in this draft, I think Ball may have the highest ceiling in the modern NBA. He is a 6'7" PG (that may have another 1" of growth) that has a solid handle, a workable jump shot, can take guys off the dribble, good court vision and all of the tangibles to develop into an elite defensive player. He is not like Doncic where he in NBA ready, but if developed properly and most things go right, his ceiling is an All NBA player. What are the odds he develops properly and most of the things go right? I have no idea, but every NBA team will think they are the organization that can get a player to their ceiling.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I will deem any team that drafts Saddiq Bey to be extremely smart and any team that drafts LaMelo Ball to be in for a season of misery.

Friendly wager: Aaron Nesmith becomes a better 3-and-D player than Bey (whom I also like).

(In fact, that's the strength of this draft-- complimentary players who can help teams win. Wiseman might turn into something special. Edwards could decide he's going to play defense. Ball might learn how to shoot (and more importantly, get faster and more athletic). But then again, they might not. The NBA is hard.

Onyeka Okongwu is going to be productive (and might develop into an All-Star). Beyond him, everyone else I like is a combo guard (Kira Lewis, Killian Hayes) or a 3-and-D wing (Haliburton, Bey, Nesmith, Isiah Joe, Nwaba).

[M2]

it is based on "upside"...."potential"....all the things that drive NBA drafting strategies. The way I view it is in the NBA you can be the "smartest" FO in the league in regards to drafting.....accumulate a roster full of players that are not "busts" and be the 4th or 5th seed every year. On the flip side, your FO can be a joke, but if they are able to accumulate 1 or 2 "special" players they can contend for championships. Of all the players in this draft, I think Ball may have the highest ceiling in the modern NBA. He is a 6'7" PG (that may have another 1" of growth) that has a solid handle, a workable jump shot, can take guys off the dribble, good court vision and all of the tangibles to develop into an elite defensive player. He is not like Doncic where he in NBA ready, but if developed properly and most things go right, his ceiling is an All NBA player. What are the odds he develops properly and most of the things go right? I have no idea, but every NBA team will think they are the organization that can get a player to their ceiling.

The problem with LaMelo is you have to hand him the ball, let him dribble around aimlessly and lay bricks all night long for 2-3 years before he maybe figures out how to channel his talent. Also, no one's ever seen him attempt to play defense. I'm not even sure Sam Hinkie would be masochistic enough to endure what that kid is going to do to a team. If you could send him to the G League for a year and try to rein in the unplayable parts of his game, then I'd be interested. Unfortunately, you can't do that. I'm not seeing a lot of places where he'd fit.

Minnesota - I figure it would take about a month of playing with LaMelo for KAT to declare he needs to play elsewhere and then fire off an apology text to Jimmy Butler.

Golden State - No way in hell the Splash Brothers are going to want the ball in the hands of a kid that raw as they take what might be their last, best shot at a title.

Charlotte - The Hornets came up with a find last year in Devonte' Graham. He and Terry Rozier both can play off-ball, and ideally you'd like a taller guard in that mix. Yet if that taller guard offers no spacing it's going to be a mess. Then again, being a mess is Charlotte's brand. So this is one of the teams I could see picking Ball.

Chicago - Wants to make the playoffs. Their new GM found a lot of gems in Denver, so maybe he'd be willing to draft LaMelo and keep him buried on the bench, but getting a full-fledged contributor with that pick or in trade for that pick would seem the higher priority.

Cleveland - Drafted Collin Sexton and Darius Garland the past two seasons. Why they'd triple down with Ball escapes me. Yet maybe they want a team full of shaky PGs and lumbering Cs.

Atlanta - Zero chance they're picking a kid who takes the ball out of Trae Young's hands.

Detroit - Worst roster in the NBA. No reason, outside of Dwane Casey's blood pressure, not to roll the dice. This team is going to suck for while. Can't imagine Ball slips past this pick.

New York - However, if he does slip past Detroit, no way the Knicks take a pass. They will not be able to resist the maddening urge to do the wrong thing. I still think they might trade up to get him.

Mind you, if for some reason he starts plunging and that makes teams increasingly skittish about him, the next six picks belong to Washington, Phoenix, San Antonio, Sacramento, New Orleans and Boston. I don't think he's a good fit on any of those teams. So the next landing spot for him (barring somebody making a trade to take him 9-14) would be Orlando at #15.

[Kingspoint]

Pritchard has been trying to increase the pace. McMillan refused to do it (of course he would refuse...he was never going to change). D'Antoni would be incredible there. He and Pritchard would get a team full of gazelles on the floor. Sabonis would get traded. Oladipo will get the best offer from the Pacers...not a MAX, not during COVID-driven revenue.

[M2]

Pritchard has been trying to increase the pace. McMillan refused to do it (of course he would refuse...he was never going to change). D'Antoni would be incredible there. He and Pritchard would get a team full of gazelles on the floor. Sabonis would get traded. Oladipo will get the best offer from the Pacers...not a MAX, not during COVID-driven revenue.

No sure how trading Sabonis = good. Mind you, there are rumors Sabonis wants out, so he might get dealt. Yet I suspect that ends up going better for the team that gets Sabonis than the Pacers.

[Bourgeois Zee]

First off-season question is an expected one:

What team improves themselves the most this off-season?

Popular opinion seems to be Atlanta, but I really like what Minnesota could do. If they re-sign their restricted free agents (and they seem like they will), the TWolves will have four-fifths of an offensive juggernaut and two solid bench pieces in McLaughlin (who showed real promise as a backup PG) and Johnson (still spry at 33 and capable of corner threes and TO's in equal measure). (I like Omari Spellman too.)

That offense could be lethal. Juan Hernangomez, freed from the bench in Denver, delivered 13/7/1.5 and should finish much better at the rim with KAT and Russell around to open lanes. Beasley was a beast. 43.6% from three and 20 per game on solid shooting clips. Both KAT and Russell are going to score. All four of these guys are solid rebounders as well. (We won't talk about defense.)

They also have three picks in a draft that's set up to help them find the wing they need. Were I Rosas, I'd deal the top pick to Charlotte or Chicago (rumor is that both are interested in moving up) in order to pick Onyeka Okongwu at PF with the third or fourth pick. (Four PF seems excessive, but that's workable.) I'd then target a wing with my 17th pick and my 33rd pick.

They've also got the MLE and somewhere around $15M in FA money before they hit the cap.

That's a team that can make some noise.

[redsfanmia]

Pritchard has been trying to increase the pace. McMillan refused to do it (of course he would refuse...he was never going to change). D'Antoni would be incredible there. He and Pritchard would get a team full of gazelles on the floor. Sabonis would get traded. Oladipo will get the best offer from the Pacers...not a MAX, not during COVID-driven revenue.

No thanks on D’Antoni and Vic by all accounts is pushing his way out of Indiana.

[M2]

A guy who'd seem like a good fit for the Timberwolves, if he could ever stay healthy and realize his potential, is Justise Winslow. A SF who can distribute to the shooters and play defense would be a sweet addition.

[adkindo]

The problem with LaMelo is you have to hand him the ball, let him dribble around aimlessly and lay bricks all night long for 2-3 years before he maybe figures out how to channel his talent.

trust me, it brings me no pleasure in speaking out for anyone in the Ball family....I just see no other likely elite talent in this draft...or very little of it. To be clear, are you suggesting that you do not think LaMelo will be drafted in the Top 3ish?

[adkindo]

When I look at this draft, my gut is there is a little value that will be found in the back end of the lottery into the mid-teens.....and late in the 1st Round/early 2nd Round. I see guys like Desmond Bane, Jahmi'us Ramsey, Cassius Stanley and Robert Woodard being mocked late 1st/early 2nd round...and I would be very pleased to pick up one of those guys in that range as they fit the model of a 7th or 8th guy that is versatile enough to help a good team. More importantly, I just do not see a wide margin in those guys compared to a guy like Devin Vassell who is always mocked as a lottery pick.

[M2]

trust me, it brings me no pleasure in speaking out for anyone in the Ball family....I just see no other likely elite talent in this draft...or very little of it. To be clear, are you suggesting that you do not think LaMelo will be drafted in the Top 3ish?

I don't think either the T-Wolves or the Warriors can afford his level of sabotage. The Hornets might. If somebody's got a LaMelo compulsion, perhaps they'll trade up for the pick (the Knicks remain my guess). FWIW, I don't think there's an elite talent in this draft.

[Kingspoint]

No sure how trading Sabonis = good. Mind you, there are rumors Sabonis wants out, so he might get dealt. Yet I suspect that ends up going better for the team that gets Sabonis than the Pacers.

He wouldn't fit D'Antoni's pace.

[M2]

He wouldn't fit D'Antoni's pace.

I'm sure other teams would offer to help them out of that dilemma.

[Kingspoint]

I'm sure other teams would offer to help them out of that dilemma.

Absolutely. Sabonis operating out of the high post as a distributor is the norm now.

[Revering4Blue]

No thanks on D’Antoni and Vic by all accounts is pushing his way out of Indiana.

Victor's been downplaying those rumors lately. Then again, Paul George also downplayed such rumors just days before he publicly forced his way out of Indiana.

[Revering4Blue]

trust me, it brings me no pleasure in speaking out for anyone in the Ball family....I just see no other likely elite talent in this draft...or very little of it. To be clear, are you suggesting that you do not think LaMelo will be drafted in the Top 3ish?


I don't think either the T-Wolves or the Warriors can afford his level of sabotage. The Hornets might. If somebody's got a LaMelo compulsion, perhaps they'll trade up for the pick (the Knicks remain my guess). FWIW, I don't think there's an elite talent in this draft.

I still maintain that LaMelo will not fall past 3 to Charlotte. And if selected at 2 or 3, it's assuredly a sign that either the Warriors or Hornets are moving down and LaMelo has been selected on behalf of another team.

And it goes without saying that trading up for Ball or trading for Westbrook both have the Knicks written all over them.

[M2]

I still maintain that LaMelo will not fall past 3 to Charlotte. And if selected at 2 or 3, it's assuredly a sign that either the Warriors or Hornets are moving down and LaMelo has been selected on behalf of another team.

I can see a trade up or Charlotte taking him, but he strikes me as an extremely acquired taste.


And it goes without saying that trading up for Ball or trading for Westbrook both have the Knicks written all over them.

I could see the Knicks doing both.

[Bourgeois Zee]

And it goes without saying that trading up for Ball or trading for Westbrook both have the Knicks written all over them.

For the record, I like dealing for Westbrook, assuming the cost isn't prohibitive. The Knicks need a ball-dominant alpha more than any team in the NBA.

Westbrook is worth the overpay pretty much only for the Knicks.

Put him at PG and let the team revolve around him. Barrett becomes more effective as a wing driver/ distributor/ secondary ball handler. Robinson as a pick man would be lethal. Shooters would be more open and more likely to make those shots. Just as importantly, he becomes the fulcrum of the offense-- which is important to him. New York looks capable (for the most part). Westbrook garners all sorts of All-Star and All-NBA nods. The Knicks might then be able to grab a second star to pair with him.

He checks a lot of boxes

Otherwise, the Knicks would have to develop a star or convince one to sign with... no one on their roster. Or more likely, overpay someone like Randle or Portis to come try be The Man. (You can see how that went this season.)

[adkindo]

This offseason, I find those vets that can still ball but probably looking at a MLE or less most interesting. They could have a massive impact on the upcoming season....more so than I can recall in recent seasons due to the limited cap space this offseason. If you are one of these guys, the gap between what a team with cap space can pay you and the MLE may not be great, and I think in that situation, the contender will win out. Where will guys like Dragic, Ibaka, Marcus Morris and Milsap land? Evan a guy like Gallanari may be in the market to take a little less to contend?

[adkindo]

One thing that could make this offseason more exciting is the expected flattening/reduction of the salary cap in the 20-21 & 21-22 season because many teams had planned on trying to get to max cap space in the summer of 2021 for a guy like Giannis....but if the cap does not increase as expected, it pretty much takes many of those teams out of the picture like the Lakers for example. They may be more inclined to spend this offseason on multi year deals and accept they will not be players in the following offseason to improve their odds during the AD/Lebron window. If that is the case, I think it could be possible for the Lakers to do something like...

- resign AD (Bird Rights)
- resign KCP (Bird Rights)
- resign Dwight Howard using the bi-annual exception
- resign Rondo (Early Bird rights)
- use the MLE on the best player possible....Dragic? Gallanari?
- convince Cousins to resign for vet minimum
- trade McGee
- consider deals for Kuzma
- if you have the roster space, resign Dudley...apparently he was a huge presence in the locker room kind of serving as Lebrons "General" in the locker room, and taking that part off his shoulders.

That team would contend.

[adkindo]

Sources: Indiana Pacers to hire Nate Bjorkgren as head coach (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30154580/sources-indiana-pacers-hire-nate-bjorkgren-head-coach)


The Indiana Pacers have agreed to a multiyear deal to hire Toronto Raptors assistant Nate Bjorkgren as their head coach, sources told ESPN.

[redsfanmia]

Victor's been downplaying those rumors lately. Then again, Paul George also downplayed such rumors just days before he publicly forced his way out of Indiana.

Vic is a brand now, he has followed some really bad advice.

[Revering4Blue]

Sources: Indiana Pacers to hire Nate Bjorkgren as head coach (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30154580/sources-indiana-pacers-hire-nate-bjorkgren-head-coach)

I’m happy with this selection.

Better to possibly uncover the next Nick Nurse than go with another retread - especially one that would likely push to solve the ‘problem’ with playing Sabonis and Turner together, which is a totally false narrative and an insane idea anyway.

[texasdave]

“There are people in this world who bring energy and you like being around them," Pritchard said after introducing Bjorkgren on a Zoom call. “I think the litmus test is when those guys call you, you can’t wait to pick up the phone. Nate has those characteristics, and when he went through his presentation he created a vision that I could physically see in my mind how he was going to coach. We knew he was the right guy."

Nate? Wasn't that last Pacers coach? :laugh:

[Bourgeois Zee]

Stan Van Gundy signs on to coach the Pelicans.

Odd choice, IMO. Really, really odd.

My guess is that they see Zion Williamson as the next Dwight Howard and want to grow that particular skillset.

If that's NOLA's thinking, I think they should aim higher.

[Revering4Blue]

Stan Van Gundy signs on to coach the Pelicans.

Odd choice, IMO. Really, really odd.

My guess is that they see Zion Williamson as the next Dwight Howard and want to grow that particular skillset.

If that's NOLA's thinking, I think they should aim higher.

I was thinking along the lines of a hybrid Dwight Howard/Blake Griffin - and the fact that SVG has coached both of them - as a possible skilset comparison.

I, too, am surprised by the choice, as this coaching gig seemed to have D'Antoni or Atkinson written all over it.

Nevertheless, at the very least, SVG should at least be able to get the Pels to play competent defense (if not eventually top 10 in the league) without slowing the offense to a crawl - A recipe, assuming Griffin continues to accumulate more talent for the Pels' roster, for moving the Pels not only into the playoffs, but (again, not overnight) out of thy dreaded treadmill. Remember, SVG is only coaching, not acting as GM, so the onus, once again, is on Griffin to improve the roster.

[adkindo]

Really surprised by SVG. I think he has did a solid job at certain points in the past, but he does not feel like the right fit for this roster.

[Kingspoint]

I'd rather have Jeff Van Gundy.

[Rojo Rijo]

New Orleans badly needs Zion to reach the star level that would allow them to enter the market for big stars to create a big 2 or big 3. He needs to get to the point other players want to come to NO to play with him. It doesn't need to happen this year necessarily but it needs to happen sooner than later. The rumblings/allegations of Duke paying for his services lands me on the "he'll go to a better team and market" side of the fence. Especially if New Orleans handles him like they did Anthony Davis.

[Bourgeois Zee]

New Orleans badly needs Zion to reach the star level that would allow them to enter the market for big stars to create a big 2 or big 3. He needs to get to the point other players want to come to NO to play with him. It doesn't need to happen this year necessarily but it needs to happen sooner than later. The rumblings/allegations of Duke paying for his services lands me on the "he'll go to a better team and market" side of the fence. Especially if New Orleans handles him like they did Anthony Davis.

NOLA has more time than that, IMO, but yeah, Zion is probably going to be looking for the most coin. (And good on him for that, btw.)

That team just doesn't work very well as constructed.

Ingram needs to play PF, not SF. (Too slow to be a good defender there, IMO. Four years into his career, the best defensive rating he's had in 109.) With Zion there, he's not an ideal fit.
Holiday and Reddick are older, veteran types. If NOLA were closer, I could see them as important cogs, but they just finished 13th in the West and absolutely tanked in the bubble.
Ball is, simply, a second-division starter, at best. Too slow, too much of an issue finishing, shooting free throws, and defending to make a foundation piece.

I'm wondering if Milwaukee and NOLA can work out a deal wherein NOLA deals Redick, Ball, Holiday, and Ingram for Middleton, Bledsoe, and the Buck first rounder in 2022 (completely unprotected) and make it work. That would seem a good deal for the Bucks and would net Middleton as an elite wing and Bledsoe as an acceptable PG placeholder. It's a gamble, assuming Milwaukee won't re-sign Giannis, but a good one, IMO. It'd certainly be a heck of a chip.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Top Five Draft Prospects Who'll Out-Earn Their Draft Slot
(In order of the spot they'll go in the draft)

Tyrese Haliburton
Draft Slot: 5 - 10
Why He's Good: He does everything well, and he doesn't beat himself. When prospects come into the league, most take years to find the balance between aggressiveness and humility they need in order to become successful. Haliburton already has that feel. He just refuses to beat himself. Length, solid shooting numbers (though his stroke is u g l y), phenomenal rebounding despite a slight frame, and an exceptional ball handler, Haliburton is, on the low end, already a rotation piece. With more weight and a good system, he has a real chance to be a 3-and-D distributor and scorer.
Upside Comp: Combo guard Shawn Marion

Onyeka Okongwu, PF/C
Draft Slot: Mid-lottery
Why He's Good: In a word, bounce. And length. And quickness. And intelligence. Okay, that's four words. He can guard 1 - 5 and not embarrass himself. He is a willing and able passer with a solid handle and a consistent jumper out to 15. His free throw form looks good too. At his floor, Okongwu is going to help the team who drafts him-- and he has monster upside in today's game. At his best, he can be a poor man's Bam Adebayo. First-division starter at either PF or C (depending on his range).

Saddiq Bey
Draft Slot: Low lottery
Why He's Good: Bey defends. Bey shoots. He does both at an exceptional level. He's played in tough environments and won. He's got deep range and a nice little teardrop when he (rarely) decides to drive. His lack of first-step explosiveness may be a Villanova thing-- collecting oneself before making a move is very Jay Wright. He's probably not an All-Star, but he will be a first-division starter for years. Think Joe Harris or Duncan Robinson with D.

Jahmius Ramsey
Draft Slot: Late first round
Why He's Good: He's another who has multiple carrying skills. Super-talented high schooler who worked hard in college-- that's a good mix and presages success in the NBA even as a role player. And that's Ramsey's wheelhouse, IMO. He's not going to be a star, but he will be a rotational piece that has years of double figure scoring and solid defense. He could outplay his Justin Holiday comp, but this feels like a good one.

Desmond Bane
Draft Slot: Early second round
Why He's Good: Bane's a freight train who can shoot and handle. He's also 6'6" (but with short arms). He finishes in contact and can shoot from deep. Smart player. (That's the theme for this class, seemingly, or perhaps I'm a sucker for basketball IQ.) He's ready now-- and a bit older. Out of all the guys on the list, he's the deepest sleeper and probably the one who I like the most to contribute something. In his best of all worlds, Bane's a secondary scorer and glue guy who starts (and wins championships) on great teams. I've got Danny Green as a comp but that feels low.

Deep Sleepers:
Isaiah Joe
Shooters who can shoot are valuable no matter their other skills. Joe's a bucket-getter.

Jordan Nwora
See comment above. Nwora's played against the toughest schedule in the game and found success.

Nick Richards
Late to the game, Richards has all the tools and profiles as a rim-running shot blocker. But he has nice shooting form and might end up as a Dwayne Dedmond type-- if he doesn't let his brain get in the way.

Paul Reed
Reed strikes me as a poor man's Bobby Portis without the cray-cray. He might be more than that. Elite rebounder.

[M2]

A strong case can be made Okongwu at #1.

[Bourgeois Zee]

A strong case can be made Ogungwu at #1.

If I were the Wolves (and couldn't convince another team to make a deal), that's who I'd pick. (Golden State at two as well, for that matter.)

I think he's the most likely All-Star out of all those who can be drafted this season.

Okongwu, Wiseman, Bey, Nesmith, Edwards, and either Hayes or Kira Lewis, in that order.

(Speaking of, I'd have had Kira Lewis on my Sleeper Team if I didn't think he'd get drafted way earlier than anyone currently thinks. He's young, productive, and talented.)

[Bourgeois Zee]

Top Five Radioactive Prospects
(In order of where they'll go in the draft)

Anthony Edwards
A poor man's Andrew Wiggins without the defensive acumen or the jump shot. He takes way too many long twos, has a shaky handle, and isn't all that great of a passer. He's also got a questionable motor. Edwards might outgrow all of that and become a taller Spider Mitchell, but the NBA is strewn with ultra-athletic would-be dominant ball handlers who can't shoot.

LaMelo Ball
He is, IMO, the very definition of a coach killer. Too slight to be of any use on the defensive end, he tries to make the flashy play by anticipating lazy passes and deflecting ball handlers as they pass him by. He can't do that in the NBA-- they'll absolutely eat him up. Offensively, he's a great passer, but where does he play? He can't shoot. At all. And worse, his mechanics will need a complete overhaul before he can do much of anything beyond dribble into the lane and put up a one-handed set shot from 10 feet that might go in 35% of the time. Stay. Far. Away.

Isaac Okoro
Phenomenal defensive player. He plays hard too. But that shot is broken. He's MKG in a slightly more mobile package. He can absolutely make a living as a defense savant. If he improves his mechanics, he might be good enough to start. But that's a long way away. With a pick in the top 10, he makes no sense.

Precious Achiuwa
This is all about value. What Achiuwa offers can be found at the bottom of the second round and in free agency after the draft. Achiuwa is an incredible athlete. He's also a kind of a dinosaur. He'll be a solid defender (though he's a bit of a tweener) and has the tools to be better than that. But he's limited offensively. Shaky handle. Shaky jumper. He's going to be a rotation piece, for at least a few years.

Anyone from Duke
I can't decide which Duke player I like least: Vernon Carey, Tre Jones, or Cassius Stanley. They're all old school in a new school game. (Similar to many on this list, in fact.) Carey's a beefy low-post scorer like his fellow Dukie, Okafor. Okaforget'em. Cassius Stanley looks like Cam Reddish's smaller, less athletic cousin. And Jones is a Duke PG. 'Nuff said.

[Revering4Blue]

A strong case can be made Ogungwu at #1.

Agreed.

If there were ever an NBA draft in which it's likely best to ignore 1st round draft metrics such as value/draft position and upside and focus on fit/culture, this would seem to be it.

[Revering4Blue]

If I were the Wolves (and couldn't convince another team to make a deal), that's who I'd pick. (Golden State at two as well, for that matter.)

I think he's the most likely All-Star out of all those who can be drafted this season.

Okongwu, Wiseman, Bey, Nesmith, Edwards, and either Hayes or Kira Lewis, in that order.

(Speaking of, I'd have had Kira Lewis on my Sleeper Team if I didn't think he'd get drafted way earlier than anyone currently thinks. He's young, productive, and talented.)

Kira Lewis Jr. may be the fastest end-to-end player in the draft. I'll be surprised if he lasts past Orlando's pick at 15. If the Magic nab him, they may be one of the most improved teams next season. While I realize that Issac is a huge loss, Aminu should return, and Chuma Okeke - last year's 1st rounder - is scheduled to make his debut.

[Revering4Blue]

Top Five Radioactive Prospects
(In order of where they'll go in the draft)

Anthony Edwards
A poor man's Andrew Wiggins without the defensive acumen or the jump shot. He takes way too many long twos, has a shaky handle, and isn't all that great of a passer. He's also got a questionable motor. Edwards might outgrow all of that and become a taller Spider Mitchell, but the NBA is strewn with ultra-athletic would-be dominant ball handlers who can't shoot.

LaMelo Ball
He is, IMO, the very definition of a coach killer. Too slight to be of any use on the defensive end, he tries to make the flashy play by anticipating lazy passes and deflecting ball handlers as they pass him by. He can't do that in the NBA-- they'll absolutely eat him up. Offensively, he's a great passer, but where does he play? He can't shoot. At all. And worse, his mechanics will need a complete overhaul before he can do much of anything beyond dribble into the lane and put up a one-handed set shot from 10 feet that might go in 35% of the time. Stay. Far. Away.

Isaac Okoro
Phenomenal defensive player. He plays hard too. But that shot is broken. He's MKG in a slightly more mobile package. He can absolutely make a living as a defense savant. If he improves his mechanics, he might be good enough to start. But that's a long way away. With a pick in the top 10, he makes no sense.

Precious Achiuwa
This is all about value. What Achiuwa offers can be found at the bottom of the second round and in free agency after the draft. Achiuwa is an incredible athlete. He's also a kind of a dinosaur. He'll be a solid defender (though he's a bit of a tweener) and has the tools to be better than that. But he's limited offensively. Shaky handle. Shaky jumper. He's going to be a rotation piece, for at least a few years.

Anyone from Duke
I can't decide which Duke player I like least: Vernon Carey, Tre Jones, or Cassius Stanley. They're all old school in a new school game. (Similar to many on this list, in fact.) Carey's a beefy low-post scorer like his fellow Dukie, Okafor. Okaforget'em. Cassius Stanley looks like Cam Reddish's smaller, less athletic cousin. And Jones is a Duke PG. 'Nuff said.

- You have to figure that any competent organization - compared with Charlotte at the time - could have at least developed MKG into another Andre Iquodala. And I'm not sure that Okoro's ceiling is anywhere close to that of MKG's ceiling entering the '12 draft. Thus, selecting Okoro ahead of other 3-and-D candidates -such as Vassell, Bey and Nesmith - seems like the type of move that precipitates the firing of a GM.

- Regarding Achiuwa, he purportedly can switch out and guard players on the perimeter. Thus, someone will assuredly take a chance on him somewhere around 12-15, and I've seen Achiuwa mocked to Boston at 14 at times. Should he sap whatever offensive potential he possesses, Achiuwa may amount to what Boston thought they were getting with Semi Ojeleye - and remember, I was as high on Ojeleye as a '17 draft prospect as anyone - but that seems too iffy a proposition to take to the bank.

[Kingspoint]

Sadly, Charlotte is where potential goes to die. Someone had to take over that Moniker from the Cripplers' franchise.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Sadly, Charlotte is where potential goes to die. Someone had to take over that Moniker from the Cripplers' franchise.

Nah. Charlotte just really sucks at drafting, more often than not. (And has been fairly unlucky when acquiring talent.)

DeVonte Graham showed real flashes early last season (before falling back to earth a bit). PJ Washington's going to be a stretch four first-division starter for 15 years-- and if he develops at all, perhaps more.

They've been stuck in the middle for so long that it's hard to find a star. And they need a star more than any team this side of the Big Apple.

[Bourgeois Zee]

- You have to figure that any competent organization - compared with Charlotte at the time - could have at least developed MKG into another Andre Iquodala. And I'm not sure that Okoro's ceiling is anywhere close to that of MKG's ceiling entering the '12 draft. Thus, selecting Okoro ahead of other 3-and-D candidates -such as Vassell, Bey and Nesmith - seems like the type of move that precipitates the firing of a GM.

MKG is one of the great missed opportunity players in the game today. Put him on the Spurs, and I suspect he's an All-Star.

They just let his shot get in his head and that grew to impact his entire game.

And I suspect you're absolutely correct on the list of solid 3-and-D choices, Rev. It's all about value. What Okoro provides (and Achiuwa, really) is readily available way, way lower in the draft. The NBA has become the makers' league-- you have to be a threat to score (consistently) from somewhere other than the paint. Vassell, Bey, and Nesmith project to do that. Okoro doesn't. (Yet.)

[Bourgeois Zee]

Daniel Oturu, who is 6-foot-10 and 240 pounds, shot 67.5 percent from three-point range (104 for 154) and 87 percent from the free throw line (87 for 100) at the P3 Sports Science facility in Santa Barbara, Calif. P3 Sports Science runs combine drills for the NBA Draft, which is scheduled to be held virtually Nov. 18. In other testing results, Oturu’s box lane agility drill (11.37 seconds), 3/4 court sprint (3.28 seconds), standing vertical jump (29.5 inches) and max vertical (35.5 inches) topped averages at his position from the 2019 NBA Draft combine in Chicago. – via Minneapolis Star-Tribune

That kind of shooting will get a big guy paid. Oturu's one of those guys who could be out of the league in two years or a starting center for 15.

I'd probably take a gamble on him, depending on who else is available, somewhere around the mid-lottery, assuming my scouts liked his motor and quickness enough to think he might be able to switch onto fours at times. (And if not, I'd only drop him five spots or so.)

[Revering4Blue]

Sadly, Charlotte is where potential goes to die. Someone had to take over that Moniker from the Cripplers' franchise.

While it's obvious that this incarnation of the Charlotte franchise fails to develop draftees for the most part, BZ nailed it - They basically suck at drafting overall. Mitch Kupchak gives them a fighting chance in that regard, however.

Ironically, neither drafting nor developing young talent were the main issues with Sterling's Clippers. Rather, the issue was team building around young talent, often magnified by trading away what should have been young cornerstones for sub-par veteran-laden returns - Tom Chambers and Terry Cummings, for example.
.
Speaking of crippling (whether or not Cripplers' was intentional, it's amusing, btw), turning the rights to Danny 'The Next Larry Bird' Ferry into Ron Harper was absolute alchemy, and wound up crippling the Cavs. Yes, I'm aware that the Price/Daugherty Cavs reached the '92 ECF, but had no real shot at ousting the Bulls without Harper, spending years searching for a replacement before both Price and Daugherty were shelved with injuries.

Of course, Sterling screwed up any chance of keeping the playoff team coached by Larry Brown - with a core of Harper, Danny Manning and Mark Jackson - together.

[Revering4Blue]

Nah. Charlotte just really sucks at drafting, more often than not. (And has been fairly unlucky when acquiring talent.)

DeVonte Graham showed real flashes early last season (before falling back to earth a bit). PJ Washington's going to be a stretch four first-division starter for 15 years-- and if he develops at all, perhaps more.

They've been stuck in the middle for so long that it's hard to find a star. And they need a star more than any team this side of the Big Apple.

Miles Bridges is also a decent young player. But, as you mentioned, they have some interesting young pieces but no real star. And extending/retaining their one true star of recent memory (Walker) would have produced major cap ramifications, which would have relegated them to (at best) treadmill status for the foreseeable future.

It goes without saying that they absolutely must nail this draft.

[Revering4Blue]

That kind of shooting will get a big guy paid. Oturu's one of those guys who could be out of the league in two years or a starting center for 15.

I'd probably take a gamble on him, depending on who else is available, somewhere around the mid-lottery, assuming my scouts liked his motor and quickness enough to think he might be able to switch onto fours at times. (And if not, I'd only drop him five spots or so.)

Yet many mocks still list Oturu as a second round pick. Why?

[texasdave]

NBA Draft will be held virtually on November 18th. The NBA draft presented by State Farm will air live on ESPN, ESPN Radio and the ESPN App at 7 p.m. ET.

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30168673/nba-draft-held-virtually-espn-studios-nov-18

[Kingspoint]

While it's obvious that this incarnation of the Charlotte franchise fails to develop draftees for the most part, BZ nailed it - They basically suck at drafting overall. Mitch Kupchak gives them a fighting chance in that regard, however.

Ironically, neither drafting nor developing young talent were the main issues with Sterling's Clippers. Rather, the issue was team building around young talent, often magnified by trading away what should have been young cornerstones for sub-par veteran-laden returns - Tom Chambers and Terry Cummings, for example.
.
Speaking of crippling (whether or not Cripplers' was intentional, it's amusing, btw), turning the rights to Danny 'The Next Larry Bird' Ferry into Ron Harper was absolute alchemy, and wound up crippling the Cavs. Yes, I'm aware that the Price/Daugherty Cavs reached the '92 ECF, but had no real shot at ousting the Bulls without Harper, spending years searching for a replacement before both Price and Daugherty were shelved with injuries.

Of course, Sterling screwed up any chance of keeping the playoff team coached by Larry Brown - with a core of Harper, Danny Manning and Mark Jackson - together.

"Cripplers" was a typo, but I liked it (had to add the "l") too much to fix it. Funny you should catch that.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Yet many mocks still list Oturu as a second round pick. Why?

To be fair, this draft is completely different. No NCAA Tournament. No Combine. Far fewer chances to see what they can do. Far more depth in the class too (IMO).

If you didn't watch much Big 10 basketball last year, you probably only saw Oturo a couple of times. Maybe he didn't stand out. Maybe the system's bad for showing that talent.

This draft is going to be really interesting, I suspect, not just in the usual ways, but in what players get "overdrafted"-- and for what reasons.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Miles Bridges is also a decent young player. But, as you mentioned, they have some interesting young pieces but no real star. And extending/retaining their one true star of recent memory (Walker) would have produced major cap ramifications, which would have relegated them to (at best) treadmill status for the foreseeable future.

It goes without saying that they absolutely must nail this draft.

Charlotte needs scoring, height, and wing help. If one of Edwards or Wiseman falls to them, that's a great start. They can grab complementary help with the 32nd and 56th picks. They're in a great spot-- if either of the first two picks is Ball. If both of those guys are picked, I'd grab Okongwu and look for scoring elsewhere (and elsewhen).

They might also look to trade up-- I suspect the Warriors would love to take a crack at the riddle that is Malik Monk. Add PJ Washington and both picks this season. Is that enough for Andrew Wiggins and the 3rd pick? I suspect it might be. Golden State could save monster cash (more than $30M this season alone, due to salary cap overages) and still have talent enough to compete in the West. Charlotte would get the scorer they need plus pick second. Add Wiggins and Wiseman and they may have enough firepower to play in the East.

[Kingspoint]

It sucks that the Olympics is the only reason why the league is trying to start the next season Dec 22nd. They'd best serve themselves and the public if they began in March when they'd be closer to having fans fill (some of) the arenas again. It's still not likely for that to happen until well into Spring (late April/May) as that's the most likely time that mass vaccinations will have been completed and the corresponding COVID numbers reduced to a level that lets 25,000 people (fans plus employees) take part in an event at an enclosed environment.

With this early start, I'm not seeing myself able to attend a game in person until after 60 of the 72 games have been played instead of after 20 games have been played if the season would begin in late March (and Zach Collins would be ready!, and Rodney Hood would have been ready for two months, where he'll be questionable to start the year on Dec 22...probably needs a few more weeks).

[Kingspoint]

To be fair, this draft is completely different. No NCAA Tournament. No Combine. Far fewer chances to see what they can do. Far more depth in the class too (IMO).

If you didn't watch much Big 10 basketball last year, you probably only saw Oturo a couple of times. Maybe he didn't stand out. Maybe the system's bad for showing that talent.

This draft is going to be really interesting, I suspect, not just in the usual ways, but in what players get "overdrafted"-- and for what reasons.

Could not travel to Europe and see talent, either. Zoom interviews aren't quite the same, either.

[Bourgeois Zee]

It sucks that the Olympics is the only reason why the league is trying to start the next season Dec 22nd.

I $u$pect it ha$ more to do with regional $port$ package$ and cable televi$ion contract$ that require a certain amount of game$ played-- I believe it'$ $ixty and $eventy per team.

[Kingspoint]

I $u$pect it ha$ more to do with regional $port$ package$ and cable televi$ion contract$ that require a certain amount of game$ played-- I believe it'$ $ixty and $eventy per team.

That was the starting point, for sure. But, I thought they could still get the 72-game schedule in just as easily if they started in late March had there been no Olympics. Contractually, Arenas gaurantee availabilty through the 2nd week of June and that could be a huge factor, too.

[M2]

It sucks that the Olympics is the only reason why the league is trying to start the next season Dec 22nd. They'd best serve themselves and the public if they began in March when they'd be closer to having fans fill (some of) the arenas again. It's still not likely for that to happen until well into Spring (late April/May) as that's the most likely time that mass vaccinations will have been completed and the corresponding COVID numbers reduced to a level that lets 25,000 people (fans plus employees) take part in an event at an enclosed environment.

With this early start, I'm not seeing myself able to attend a game in person until after 60 of the 72 games have been played instead of after 20 games have been played if the season would begin in late March (and Zach Collins would be ready!, and Rodney Hood would have been ready for two months, where he'll be questionable to start the year on Dec 22...probably needs a few more weeks).

I suspect the reasoning behind Dec. 22 is they want that to become the league's new start date.

As for your team, you can't seriously be counting on Collins and post-Achilles Hood to make major contributions. Even you can't be hankering for gruel that thin. After a season of trying to talk yourself into Melo wouldn't you prefer it if they got Dame a forward who's actually good? I can't imagine you'd be anything other than thrilled by that.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I suspect the reasoning behind Dec. 22 is they want that to become the league's new start date.

As for your team, you can't seriously be counting on Collins and post-Achilles Hood to make major contributions. Even you can't be hankering for gruel that thin. After a season of trying to talk yourself into Melo wouldn't you prefer it if they got Dame a forward who's actually good? I can't imagine you'd be anything other than thrilled by that.

With what cash?

I was under the impression that Portland was maxed out.

[M2]

With what cash?

I was under the impression that Portland was maxed out.

They'd have to wrangle a trade, though they might be able to work their cap enough to grab a guy like JaMychal Green.

[Bourgeois Zee]

They'd have to wrangle a trade, though they might be able to work their cap enough to grab a guy like JaMychal Green.

The problem is that almost everyone is over the cap. There are only five or six teams who have any room at all.

They have to let Whitehead go to have any room at all. if they re-sign him, I think they're hard-capped (or right up against it). Ditto Hood. He'll earn less, no doubt and may be a relative bargain, but at the level they're at, Portland needs the nickels. (To be fair, I'm not a cap expert. This could be completely wrong and they could well end up being able to spend tens of millions due to some arcane heretofore unknown loophole.)

Were I Portland, I'd go full-on veteran and pin some hopes on a guy like Paul Millsap. He's toasted, but smart and can help a team just by being a good glue guy and corner shooter. Maybe Bobby Portis would get it done instead. He had a horrible season in New York and won't cost much. Maybe Dion Waiters as a wing? I think Isiah Hartenstein could end up being pretty productive, given minutes. Patrick Patterson might be a guy too.

[adkindo]

Hood has a $6 Million Player Option that I assume he takes given the circumstances. Hezonja also has a $2 Million PO that he will accept. The question I have with Portland is what do they do with Ariza? He is $12.8 Million against the cap if the keep him, but his contract is only partially guaranteed for $1.8 Million if they let him go. Under the old cap rules, where the non-guaranteed part counted in trades, that contract would be gold in a trade.

[M2]

The problem is that almost everyone is over the cap. There are only five or six teams who have any room at all.

They have to let Whitehead go to have any room at all. if they re-sign him, I think they're hard-capped (or right up against it). Ditto Hood. He'll earn less, no doubt and may be a relative bargain, but at the level they're at, Portland needs the nickels. (To be fair, I'm not a cap expert. This could be completely wrong and they could well end up being able to spend tens of millions due to some arcane heretofore unknown loophole.)

Were I Portland, I'd go full-on veteran and pin some hopes on a guy like Paul Millsap. He's toasted, but smart and can help a team just by being a good glue guy and corner shooter. Maybe Bobby Portis would get it done instead. He had a horrible season in New York and won't cost much. Maybe Dion Waiters as a wing? I think Isiah Hartenstein could end up being pretty productive, given minutes. Patrick Patterson might be a guy too.

Might be able to do a sign-and-swap with Whiteside (tell the truth, you were thinking Jerome Whitehead). If somebody wants a big and has a wing/stretch 4 to send in the other direction, that might do the trick.

The can let Whiteside, Melo and Ariza walk and be slightly under $100M. They also have about $11M in trade exceptions. It would take creativity and I'm not sure that's really Olshey's strength, but maybe he'll get drunk on a Zoom call with Daryl Morey, who'll start randomly generating trade ideas.

[Kingspoint]

I suspect the reasoning behind Dec. 22 is they want that to become the league's new start date.

As for your team, you can't seriously be counting on Collins and post-Achilles Hood to make major contributions. Even you can't be hankering for gruel that thin. After a season of trying to talk yourself into Melo wouldn't you prefer it if they got Dame a forward who's actually good? I can't imagine you'd be anything other than thrilled by that.

Both Hood and Collins are better than Melo right now in their careers. Hood isn't going anywhere. Whiteside is gone. No sign-and-trade, just free agency. No interest in bringing him back. The only question is if Jody Allen lets Olshey keep Ariza.

[M2]

Both Hood and Collins are better than Melo right now in their careers. Hood isn't going anywhere. Whiteside is gone. No sign-and-trade, just free agency. No interest in bringing him back. The only question is if Jody Allen lets Olshey keep Ariza.

Better than Melo is a super low bar, though I'm not sure what post-Achilles Hood is going to be (especially because pre-Achilles Hood was sort of blah). And I'll stick with wannabe Daniel Theis for a Zac Collins comp. Yet I repeat, don't you want a good forward? You can't enjoy hoping they can milk C+ seasons from C- players.

[Revering4Blue]

Charlotte needs scoring, height, and wing help. If one of Edwards or Wiseman falls to them, that's a great start. They can grab complementary help with the 32nd and 56th picks. They're in a great spot-- if either of the first two picks is Ball. If both of those guys are picked, I'd grab Okongwu and look for scoring elsewhere (and elsewhen).

They might also look to trade up-- I suspect the Warriors would love to take a crack at the riddle that is Malik Monk. Add PJ Washington and both picks this season. Is that enough for Andrew Wiggins and the 3rd pick? I suspect it might be. Golden State could save monster cash (more than $30M this season alone, due to salary cap overages) and still have talent enough to compete in the West. Charlotte would get the scorer they need plus pick second. Add Wiggins and Wiseman and they may have enough firepower to play in the East.

If either Edwards, Wiseman or Okongwu are still on the board, I suspect Charlotte will either hold at #3 and gladly select whomever is left of the three.

At this point, I have the following scenario playing out:

1) Minnesota - Unable to find a trading down scenario to their liking, 'Wolves grab Okongwu, who instantly improves the team, as his presence allows KAT to be, well, KAT.

2) Golden State - Their are murmurs that the Warriors are enamored with Deni Avdija, but I'll believe that they'll select him over Edwards, Wiseman or Okongwu if and when it happens, Wiseman's the pick.

3) Charlotte - Edwards it is, followed by the latter selections of:

- Udoka Azubuike at #32, following your previous mock draft advice.

- PG Ashton Hagans at 56.

That would be a some draft for the Hornets, who badly need one.

[Revering4Blue]

Hood has a $6 Million Player Option that I assume he takes given the circumstances. Hezonja also has a $2 Million PO that he will accept. The question I have with Portland is what do they do with Ariza? He is $12.8 Million against the cap if the keep him, but his contract is only partially guaranteed for $1.8 Million if they let him go. Under the old cap rules, where the non-guaranteed part counted in trades, that contract would be gold in a trade.

I think it's going to depend upon who's available at #16 for the 'Blazers. If the top 3-and-D candidates are off the board, Portland will go with pure value here - possibly, Maryland PF/C Jalen Smith a Myles Turner play-alike, who assuredly will still be on the board if Boston passes on him at #14 - and will find a way to retain Ariza.

[Revering4Blue]

(tell the truth, you were thinking Jerome Whitehead)

I'll take the blame for that. After all, I'm the one who brought up the subject of solid rotational players that the Sterling era Clippers allowed to get away from them, and the late Jerome Whitehead was one of them.

[M2]

I'll take the blame for that. After all, I'm the one who brought up the subject of solid rotational players that the Sterling era Clippers allowed to get away from them, and the late Jerome Whitehead was one of them.

The Marquette team he was on was also one of the most fun college teams ever.

[M2]

Saw this and it made me ache for live games. Best. Halftime. Show. Ever.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFE5Cxtuz7E

[Bourgeois Zee]

(tell the truth, you were thinking Jerome Whitehead).

I do this more and more nowadays.

I've called Michael Lorenzen Jared at least five times.

I've called Devin Booker Corey at least three times. (Once when it actually made sense.)

I may eventually call Joe Crawford "Joan", who knows?

[M2]

I may eventually call Joe Crawford "Joan", who knows?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inlzsea8BYA

[Kingspoint]

Better than Melo is a super low bar, though I'm not sure what post-Achilles Hood is going to be (especially because pre-Achilles Hood was sort of blah). And I'll stick with wannabe Daniel Theis for a Zac Collins comp. Yet I repeat, don't you want a good forward? You can't enjoy hoping they can milk C+ seasons from C- players.

Most her feel Colllins is a B+ player based on what we have seen.

[Kingspoint]

The feeling here is that Jody Allen is more interested in saving the money and tax penalty money (can't do anything about getting under the tax) than picking up Ariza's option. But, she's as mysterious as her brother was. Nobody knows at all.

[M2]

Most her feel Colllins is a B+ player based on what we have seen.

Maybe on a kindergarten grading scale. I'll say it again, Daniel Theis wannabe.

[adkindo]

Maybe on a kindergarten grading scale. I'll say it again, Daniel Theis wannabe.

not sure if you are serious, but I would take a 22 year old 6'11" Collins over a 28 year old 6'8" Theis every day of the week. I do not think Collins has an All Star team in his future but I do think he has another level or two to go as his game and body continue to develop.

[M2]

not sure if you are serious, but I would take a 22 year old 6'11" Collins over a 28 year old 6'8" Theis every day of the week. I do not think Collins has an All Star team in his future but I do think he has another level or two to go as his game and body continue to develop.

If you wanted to win a basketball game in 2020 you'd take Theis. Theis currently is a much better player, superior numbers across the board. If Collins develops, and that's a big if, then maybe he becomes a switchable, small ball 5. He's not particularly switchable at the moment and skill players can roast him off the dribble when they get him out on the perimeter. If he gets bulkier and slower, then he might as well be named Plumlee or Zeller.

[Bourgeois Zee]

not sure if you are serious, but I would take a 22 year old 6'11" Collins over a 28 year old 6'8" Theis every day of the week. I do not think Collins has an All Star team in his future but I do think he has another level or two to go as his game and body continue to develop.

Theis had a really good season. A 130 offensive rating and a 105 defensive rating is tough to beat. Collins has way more upside, but Theis' numbers this year were better across the board. The NBA is strewn with the carcasses of would-be high upside guys who just need time and something to click. Most of the time, the time is earned-- or not. And the click just doesn't happen.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Most her feel Colllins is a B+ player based on what we have seen.

B+ is an interesting grade.

Is he better than PJ Washington, for example?

[Revering4Blue]

Speaking of Zach Collins, I find this proposed deal interesting. I have no strong opinion one way or another, but just thought I'd pass this along.

https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/rumor-nba-trade-rumors-portland-trail-blazers-big-man-zach-collins-might-missing-piece-boston-celtics-roster


On the latest episode of his podcast 'The Lowe Post', Zach Lowe said that the Boston Celtics shipping Gordon Hayward in exchange for Portland Trail Blazers' Zach Collins, Trevor Ariza, and Rodney Hood might be something both teams can agree upon.

Zach Collins is still 22, and has already shown some potential that he could be a dominant big man in the future. He can also develop into a decent 3-point shooter, which will help the Boston Celtics stretch the floor, giving more room for their guards to attack the rim.

As the competition gets tougher in the Western Conference next season, the Portland Trail Blazers need a serious upgrade to remain a playoff contender. Though not at his prime anymore, Gordon Hayward has a few good years left in him, and can be a great fit for Portland's power forward position. However, this NBA trade rumor will have some weight only if Gordon Hayward agrees to a sign-and-trade deal this season.

While giving up Zach Collins, Trevor Ariza and Rodney Hood might seem too much for a 30-year-old Hayward, we have to keep in mind that Ariza and Hood will be free agents next year, and the Blazers might as well make the most out of their contract before they walk out in 2021.

[adkindo]

^^^ironic, I was just listening to this episode an hour ago in the car....Lowe is fairly high on Collins.

[M2]

That deal instantly makes the Celtics worse. Boston's on the doorstep. It needs somebody who's ready to go right now, not a fever dream. I think Hayward on Portland would be a great fit, but I think a third team that would want a Portland package and have something the Celtics want is missing.

[Revering4Blue]

^^^ironic, I was just listening to this episode an hour ago in the car....Lowe is fairly high on Collins.

I have yet to listen to that podcast, but plan to..Offseason prediction-oriented podcasts are often fun.

[Revering4Blue]

That deal instantly makes the Celtics worse. Boston's on the doorstep. It needs somebody who's ready to go right now, not a fever dream. I think Hayward on Portland would be a great fit, but I think a third team that would want a Portland package and have something the Celtics want is missing.

Yeah, after thinking about it - I've yet to listen to the podcast and Lowe's reasoning for the deal from Boston's end - this is also where I am.

Not unlike Pacers fans subjected to countless trade proposals designed to fix their so-called big man problem, it has to be reaching the point with Celtics fans in regards to countless calls for them to deal Hayward where one just shakes his or her head and asks why?

And let's not forget that the Celts fell into an 0-2 hole in the ECF without Hayward. IMHO, they're better off keeping him unless they are absolutely blown away with an offer that doesn't heavily preclude them from seriously contending now. And this proposed deal with Portland creates more questions than answers for Boston, especially if the Celtics fail to advance to the Finals this upcoming season and they're left with only Collins and cap space to show for Hayward.

[Revering4Blue]

Here's a mock draft with trades from The Ringer.

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/#mock

Note - without spoiling the fun - one mock trade - specifically, the selection of the player after trading up - is one in which a certain executive would have to be drunk to even consider. Once you read the article/mock, you'll assuredly know what I mean.

[BuckeyeRed27]

The Miller family just sold the Utah Jazz to Ryan Smith, who is a 40 year old Utah billionaire. Seems good, at least for making sure the Utah Jazz stay in Utah long term.

[M2]

The Miller family just sold the Utah Jazz to Ryan Smith, who is a 40 year old Utah billionaire. Seems good, at least for making sure the Utah Jazz stay in Utah long term.

I assume leaving Utah isn't a consideration regardless of the owner.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I assume leaving Utah isn't a consideration regardless of the owner.

It's something Utah fans get nervous about given the size of the market and the value of the team.

[Revering4Blue]

I assume leaving Utah isn't a consideration regardless of the owner.

This.

Given EnergySolutions Arena isn't antiquated despite being nearly 30 years old (still plenty of club seats and luxury boxes) and the desire for the league to garner future expansion entree fees from new franchises down the road, there's no way Silver and the NBA Board of Governors would allow any potential owner to move the team.

This current NBA landscape is definitely a far cry from their early years in Salt Lake City - pre-salary cap days - in which the team was teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, and rumored to be either sold to Minneapolis/St. Paul or Miami ownership groups or to be merged with the then-Kansas City Kings franchise.

[Revering4Blue]

The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly in advanced talks to hire Daryl Morey to oversee their basketball operations.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported Wednesday the deal is expected to be completed "in the next few days." General manager Elton Brand will stay on in his position.

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2915520-daryl-morey-reportedly-finalizing-talks-with-76ers-to-run-basketball-operations

Josh Harris,

Make.

This.

Happen.

[BuckeyeRed27]

This.

Given EnergySolutions Arena isn't antiquated despite being nearly 30 years old (still plenty of club seats and luxury boxes) and the desire for the league to garner future expansion entree fees from new franchises down the road, there's no way Silver and the NBA Board of Governors would allow any potential owner to move the team.

This current NBA landscape is definitely a far cry from their early years in Salt Lake City - pre-salary cap days - in which the team was teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, and rumored to be either sold to Minneapolis/St. Paul or Miami ownership groups or to be merged with the then-Kansas City Kings franchise.

As unlikely as it may be, I'll just say as a Jazz fan, I'm very happy that the team was sold to a young rich Utah Jazz fan.

[M2]

The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly in advanced talks to hire Daryl Morey to oversee their basketball operations.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported Wednesday the deal is expected to be completed "in the next few days." General manager Elton Brand will stay on in his position.

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2915520-daryl-morey-reportedly-finalizing-talks-with-76ers-to-run-basketball-operations

Josh Harris,

Make.

This.

Happen.

If Morey goes to the Sixers, I'm thinking Harden for Embiid goes down.

[Revering4Blue]

If Morey goes to the Sixers, I'm thinking Harden for Embiid goes down.

Could be. But, for some reason, I think it's going to be a deal based around Simmons and Horford in exchange for Harden and Gordon.

Either way - assuming a deal landing Harden in Philly materializes - that likely precipitates a corresponding Houston deal which sends Westbrook to the Big Apple in exchange for a package centered around the 8th pick.

[texasdave]

https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2020/10/28/rockets-in-final-stages-of-head-coach-talks-with-dallas-mavericks-assistant-stephen-silas/

Looks as if Stephen Silas will be the Rockets next coach

[Bourgeois Zee]

Silas is an NBA lifer with a phenomenal reputation.

That said, I figured he was third choice, at best, behind Lucas and the better Van Gundy brother.

With Morey almost immediately signing on in Philly, I wonder if Houston's going to go into rebuilding mode.

[adkindo]

Here's a mock draft with trades from The Ringer.

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/#mock


would be very please if the Lakers picked up Ramsey.

[Kingspoint]

Speaking of Zach Collins, I find this proposed deal interesting. I have no strong opinion one way or another, but just thought I'd pass this along.

https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/rumor-nba-trade-rumors-portland-trail-blazers-big-man-zach-collins-might-missing-piece-boston-celtics-roster

Not in a million years. Jody Allen would never agree to it financially. 99% of all trade proposals concerning the Blazers by The Athletic or B/R never have any basis for making any sense both financially and in an accurate estimation of the quality of the players involved. Just like most people here are always wrong about the probability of the final outcome of any Blazers' season (where I'm always extremely accurate).

I wouldn't trade Zach Collins for two Gordon Haywards (and neither would Olshey) even if Hayward's horrible contract was as sexy and attractive as Zach Collins' dollars and control over the next five years.

Btw, those contracts of Turner, Crabbe, Leonard and Harkless that were supposed to cripple the Blazers just came to an end this month.

All Portland achieved over the time of those contracts were two 3rd Place finishes in the regular season of the Western Conference, a Western Conference Finals appearance, playoff appearances every season, game after game of incredible performances, a playoff bubble domination over MEM, SAS, NOP, and others trying to get the 8th seed, and an established core of Dame, C.J., Nurk, Trent, and Zach all under team control for several more years, and an opportunity at another Western Conference Finals appearance in 2021 depending on what pieces are added to Hood, Little and Simons (hopefully, Ariza and Melo, a Veteran PG, and a Wing with a 2021 1st Rd pick).

Now that the NBA' Players Union has nixed the Dec 22nd Start Date (pushing for Jan 18th, MLK Day), Rodney Hood should be ready for the start of the season and Zach will only miss about 30 games.

[M2]

Morey's officially signed with the Sixers, which probably makes them the most interesting team to watch this offseason. They'll be doing something.

Also, as a child of the mid-Atlantic, I grew up riding Morey boogie boards. The Delaware and Jersey shores are still filthy with them. There's just no way Philly doesn't make a zillion boogie board memes.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-JWKNZEFVY

[KoryMac5]

Silas is an NBA lifer with a phenomenal reputation.

That said, I figured he was third choice, at best, behind Lucas and the better Van Gundy brother.

With Morey almost immediately signing on in Philly, I wonder if Houston's going to go into rebuilding mode.

Silas was hired based on his offensive mindset...Van Gundy would have meant serious changes, I think the Rockets want one final go of it before deconstructing that team.

[KoryMac5]

Dallas is attempting to get another star through the draft or through a trade...I would imagine the same thing could be said about 8-10 teams.

[adkindo]

It's something Utah fans get nervous about given the size of the market and the value of the team.

I would have to assume a team like Utah is always under some level of threat to be relocated based on team values. Utah has been a well run organization with a strong fan base, yet they are in the bottom 3rd in team values. Teams like the Wizards and Suns have a higher market value....two teams that have not been ran well and have less loyal fan bases. As long as Seattle, Vegas, and emerging markets like Nashville are out there wanting a NBA team, there is always some degree of chance one of those lower value teams will explore relocating. A small market team like Utah has to be less than enthused that a team like the Clippers who have probably been the worse ran organization in the NBA except for the last decade and are the 2nd most followed team by a large margin in their own city.....and still are worth almost 2x as much as the Jazz.

[M2]

Dallas is attempting to get another star through the draft or through a trade...I would imagine the same thing could be said about 8-10 teams.

It's going to have be via trade if they want anyone who's a star in the next few years. Lots of interesting players in draft, but not much in the way of star potential. I expect them to land someone. Aaron Gordon would be interesting on that team.

[RichRed]

Morey's officially signed with the Sixers, which probably makes them the most interesting team to watch this offseason. They'll be doing something.

Also, as a child of the mid-Atlantic, I grew up riding Morey boogie boards. The Delaware and Jersey shores are still filthy with them. There's just no way Philly doesn't make a zillion boogie board memes.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-JWKNZEFVY

Ha, I definitely had a Morey board that I used to ride the monster 4 ft. waves off the Va. Beach oceanfront as a kid.

[KoryMac5]

It's going to have be via trade if they want anyone who's a star in the next few years. Lots of interesting players in draft, but not much in the way of star potential. I expect them to land someone. Aaron Gordon would be interesting on that team.

They have tried to get Gordon in the past and Orlando was reluctant to deal...and then Porzingas landed in their laps.

Rumors are they are trying to package 18 and 31 to move up...several teams are trying to do the same thing.

[Bourgeois Zee]

It's going to have be via trade if they want anyone who's a star in the next few years. Lots of interesting players in draft, but not much in the way of star potential. I expect them to land someone. Aaron Gordon would be interesting on that team.

Wrong Gordon (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/haywago01.html).

[M2]

They have tried to get Gordon in the past and Orlando was reluctant to deal...and then Porzingas landed in their laps.

Rumors are they are trying to package 18 and 31 to move up...several teams are trying to do the same thing.

What do they get if they move up, other than a project? As for Gordon, I've seen/heard a fair amount of speculation that Orlando is willing to move his contract.


Wrong Gordon (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/haywago01.html).

Hayward would be a great fit on that team. I know he costs, but a multi-faceted forward like him immediately would kick that team up a notch (if he can stay healthy). Unfortunately, the guy Dallas has who could make that deal work is Dwight Powell and he blew out his Achilles (which could rob him of his shock and awe game). Not sure how to make the money work there.

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld with Rotoworld comments:

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the NBA and NBPA have agreed to extend the deadline for either side to terminate the collective bargaining agreement to November 6. Negotiations between the two sides have not been contentious, which is good news when it comes to next season. Either side would be required to serve notice by November 6 to terminate the agreement, with that then occurring on December 14. A salary cap has yet to be officially determined, and until that occurs the league cannot move forward with next season. Another issue for both sides is when will next season begin, with it being reported that the league wants a 72-game slate that would begin on December 22. The NBPA favors a mid-January start, but if that were to occur the league could counter with a 50-game schedule.

SOURCE: Shams Charania on Twitter

[Stray]

Devin Booker turned 24 years old today. Considering he's been around for 10 years that's gotta be some sort of record. But really, we haven't even seen the best of this guy yet. I hope the Suns don't mess it up.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Jonathan Wasserman: Source: Colorado’s Tyler Bey set an NBA combine record for forwards with a 43.5 inch max vertical: 6’6” without shoes 6’7” with shoes 7’1.25” wingspan 8’9.5” standing reach 37.0” no step vert 43.5” max vert 5.0% body fat

If Bey is drafted in the bottom half of the first round, he might well be a steal. He's ready right now defensively. He'll need to get stronger, of course. And learn to shoot from distance.

But he's a high floor contributor from Day One.

In the right spot, with the right minutes, he could be somebody interesting. If I'm Minnesota, sitting at 17, I'm intrigued enough to consider him. He could slot into either the wing or as a light PF and provide some defensive intensity.

Speaking of Minnesota, word is that they're casting their eye to Tyler Haliburton for their top pick.


Haliburton, a native of Oshkosh who played the last two seasons at Iowa State, is quietly drawing keen interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors, who currently have the first and second picks, respectively, in the Nov. 18 draft. According to sources, Haliburton has already talked and met with Minnesota officials on multiple occasions. Next week, he is expected to meet with a contingent of Warriors officials. – via Woelfel's Press Box

I hadn't considered Haliburton there before, but if there's ever an example of a perfect fit, Haliburton is it. He should defend at a high level, shoot well (despite weird mechanics), and be a solid secondary play maker. With Malik Beasley at one wing (assuming they re-sign the RFA) and Haliburton at the other, there's a five-out offense with three (KAT, Beasley, and Russell) 20+ ppg scorers, three (KAT, Russell, and Haliburton) play makers, and a court full of shooters. They'll need a PF defense-first guy to go with him. (That said, I'd love to see the TWolves unleash Jared Vanderbilt as a defense-only poor man's Dennis Rodman. And I make that comment only slightly tongue in cheek. I really think Vanderbilt can be a quality contributor-- as long as you don't expect any offense from him.)

[Betterread]

Draft thoughts:

Edwards is an athletic tank. His background is in football. His basketball instincts lag because he is relatively new to bball, but he is also very young (18). His character seems to be good - religious, self-confident, hard working. I also think he could fit into a number of different roles, so he could fit with a number of different rosters (wolves, warriors, bulls).
Lamelo has great instincts, but he has to have the ball all the time. He would need to be the focus of the team, and that only works with certain rosters. Look at last year’s draft for ball dominant guards. I know that Jah is more talented than Garland and Coby White, but he also was given the keys to the team. I think Garland and Coby have a lot of potential, but they were not effective last year.
I think Lamelo does not fit GS or Minn, but might thrive for Charlotte or the Knicks. His character? With his dad’s control over his career, that is unknown, but there are rumors his draft interviews have been unimpressive.

I am intrigued by the PFs and shooters in this draft. Nesmith and Okongwu are talents I hope the wolves are considering.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I think Lamelo does not fit GS or Minn, but might thrive for Charlotte or the Knicks. His character? With his dad’s control over his career, that is unknown, but there are rumors his draft interviews have been unimpressive.

There are rumors that his interviews have been disastrous.

[M2]

There are rumors that his interviews have been disastrous.

Not surprising. Supposedly his teammates in Australia wanted to strangle him.

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld with Rotoworld comments:

The NBPA is reportedly expected to vote in favor of starting the 2020-21 season on December 22, with training camps opening up on December 1. We're just two weeks away from the 2020 NBA Draft (Nov. 18), and free agency will open up 48-72 hours after that, so things are about to get very busy in a hurry. It's reportedly going to be a 72-game season with less travel and only 14 back-to-back sets, with the regular-season ending around May 16. There is also expected to be a play-in tournament for the No. 7-10 seeds in both conferences, which hopefully, will result in more competitive play from more teams down the stretch of the season.

SOURCE: Marc Stein on Twitter

[Bourgeois Zee]

Devin Booker turned 24 years old today. Considering he's been around for 10 years that's gotta be some sort of record. But really, we haven't even seen the best of this guy yet. I hope the Suns don't mess it up.

I suspect Booker's one more under .500 season from demanding a trade.

Phoenix is going to need to get better this season if it wants to keep him. That #10 pick could be sneaky good in a draft filled with 3-and-D shooters. Other teams will likely pony up for it.

That said, were I the Suns, I'd seriously consider moving Booker to Minnesota in a blockbuster.

Why says no?

Devin Booker and the #10 pick in the draft to Minnesota for the #1 pick, the #17 pick, the rights to RFA Malik Beasley, and PF James Johnson.

The salaries can match up however they want as long as the Sun sign/ take on the risks of Beasley at $10M+ contract. (Which is a no-brainer.) If that's too light on Minnesota's part, they could throw in their high second rounder.

[Bourgeois Zee]

It's reportedly going to be a 72-game season with less travel and only 14 back-to-back sets, with the regular-season ending around May 16. There is also expected to be a play-in tournament for the No. 7-10 seeds in both conferences, which hopefully, will result in more competitive play from more teams down the stretch of the season.

SOURCE: Marc Stein on Twitter

They'll never get it all in, but that's a solid compromise from the league and the players. Less travel. Fewer back-to-backs. Starting early enough to get in "some" games. So alien, when it comes to professional sports leagues.

The cynic in me says league owners realize they'll never get the whole season in and need a quick cash infusion before the poop hits the fan. December was as early as they dared do it. Players know this, I suspect, and realize they're going to be able to take a month or two in the middle of the season (at least). So they can also get a little nest egg started before leaner times hit. Again.

Anyone else?

[Kingspoint]

https://www.blazersedge.com/2020/11/5/21552194/2020-21-nba-season-start-date-december-22-negotiations-nbpa

Players approve Dec. 22nd Start Date.

[Kingspoint]

https://www.blazersedge.com/2020/11/5/21552212/nba-salary-cap-cba-2020-21-season-negotiations-nbpa

NBA Players and Owners discussing salary cap minimum.

[Kingspoint]

I just found out that I didn't know that the NBA has a contract with the Olympics and that's the likely reason they couldn't compromise the end date for the season, the thus, "start now or you'll get less money".

[Bourgeois Zee]

Knicks are interested in Justin Holiday, trading for Chris Paul, and re-signing Carmelo Anthony.

This would be a most Knick-like off-season.

[Bourgeois Zee]

A couple pre-draft hot stove rumors from the NBA:

1. Spencer Dinwiddie seems to be a target for several West Coast teams.

If the Nets are willing to overspend on Joe Harris (and that's the apparent gist of their off-season), Dinwiddie would seem to be available for relative cheap. Both the Lakers and Clippers would be much better with Dinwiddie than without. (And the Lakers can absolutely afford him.)



2. Golden State is interested in LaMarcus Aldridge and the 11th pick for the #2 pick and salary ballast (likely Andrew Wiggins?).

That's a fascinating deal, IMO. Wiggins is bad, but if anyone can find a way to make him serviceable, it's Pop. And the number two pick could be an easy way to acquire high-end talent too. Aldridge is old, but he'd be a fine player with the Warriors. And that 11th pick could turn into Saddiq Bey or Aaron Nesmith, who'd fit the Dubs like a glove.

[adkindo]

It is kind of weird to think we should be in a new NBA season right now. On election night (last Tuesday), I was having flashbacks to 2016 where I was flipping back and forth between election results and a Lakers game. The Lakers were super young (and bad) and at that point were 4-3, on a 3 game winning streak including a big win against GSW, but took the L from Dallas that night.

[M2]

2. Golden State is interested in LaMarcus Aldridge and the 11th pick for the #2 pick and salary ballast (likely Andrew Wiggins?).

That's a fascinating deal, IMO. Wiggins is bad, but if anyone can find a way to make him serviceable, it's Pop. And the number two pick could be an easy way to acquire high-end talent too. Aldridge is old, but he'd be a fine player with the Warriors. And that 11th pick could turn into Saddiq Bey or Aaron Nesmith, who'd fit the Dubs like a glove.

It would be a very win now sort of proposition for the Warriors. Would also think they'd be due an extra piece in that deal, someone like Trey Lyles or Lonnie Walker.

[Kingspoint]

https://www.blazersedge.com/2020/11/10/21558864/nba-finalizes-salary-cap-and-luxury-tax

The link above provides an explanation of the cap and tax agreement that was made. More detsils from some cap experts are in the comments section.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Supposedly, both Russell Westbrook (Clippers and Knicks) and Chris Paul (Suns) are trade candidates.

I've been so, so wrong about their bloated contracts. I assumed with a contract that big, no one would want them, and the teams that signed them would be stuck until the end of the contract.

Nope. Both have been moved once and could be moved again.

Phoenix grabbing Paul would be fantastic. Rubio and Oubre for Paul works in terms of salary, and Oubre is exactly the type of long-limbed wing player OKC adores. An Oubre/ Dort/ SGA backcourt could be incredible defensively, especially with other snipers off the Thunder bench. (They might need to poach a shooter or two.)

Phoenix could play Paul next to Booker, with Saric, Guyton, and Bridges/ Johnson at the wing. They'd need several depth pieces, but that's a workable unit, for sure.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Mock Draft, v. 3.0:

1. Charlotte-- James Wiseman, C
I suspect Minnesota will trade down to #3 (to start), parlaying the top pick for the third pick and another asset. (Malik Monk?) Charlotte gets its would-be top talent-- and a solid pick. Wiseman should be just fine for years. Will he be a difference-maker?

2. Golden State-- Anthony Edwards, wing
I suspect Golden State is eying moving this pick, but Edwards could be very good, and he couldn't ask for a better situation. The Warriors will keep the pick and make the smart play.

3. San Antonio-- LaMelo Ball, PG
Minnesota will make another move down, this time for DeMar DeRozan and the Spurs' 11th pick. (The Wolves would send Johnson's one-year deal, Culver, and Omari Spellman in addition, to balance the trade.) The Spurs take their playmaker of the future and go full-on rebuild around the consensus high ceiling in the draft.

4. Chicago-- Demi Avdija PF
The Bulls make some sense, now that Ball isn't an option. He's a playmaker, and they need those. I get Dario Saric vibes, but he may need a couple of years to get there.

5. Cleveland-- Obi Toppin, PF
The Cavs need efficient scoring and have enough solid defenders at the big to protect Topping early. He's athletic and driven enough that he'll be serviceable on that end relatively soon. Good pick.

6. Boston-- Tyrese Haliburton PG
Ainge has three picks to burn and not enough roster space to use them. He'll burn all three in moving up. Atlanta will bank on finding depth pieces (and signing a free agent or three). Boston gets another great guy.

7. Detroit-- Patrick Williams PF
Supposedly, Williams has a promise from someone in the top of the lottery, and the Pistons aren't scared of youth. They're rebuilding anyway, right?

8. New York Knicks-- Devin Vassell, wing
Knicks try to move up, but are stuck. Instead, they select a shooter who can play either wing spot, in the hopes of improving their woeful shooting.

9. Washington-- Onyeka Okingwu, PF/C
Best fit in the draft. Monster upside with a high floor. Wizards need a defense-first guy. Badly.

10. OKC-- Killian Hayes, G
Presti pulls off another blockbuster, sending Chris Paul and the 25th pick to the Suns for Kelly Oubre, Ricky Rubio, and the 10th pick in the draft. The Thunder get (another) ballhandler/ wing to pair with SGA (and perhaps Dennis Schroder. Solid value.

11. Minnesota-- Saddiq Bey, SF
T'Wolves loading up. Having already grabbed Monk and DeRozan, they add another wing/ shooter in Bey, a monster 3-and-D prospect needed to make them a true five-out squad with decent D.

12. Sacramento-- Aaron Nesmith, SF
Denied both Vassell and Bey, the Kings grab the third elite shooting wing of the draft in Nesmith. He'll go well with Fox, Bogdanovich, and Hield. (If they can convince Hield to stay the course.)

13. NOLA-- Isaac Okoro, SF
NOLA has at least two of just about everything, but none of them play that much defense. (Holiday had an uncharacteristically poor season on that end of the ball.) They can plug Okoro in as either wing and let him eat up opposing offensive players while learning the offensive side of the ball. (Flying up and down the court will help too.)

14. Atlanta-- Kira Lewis, PG
Atlanta needs defense-first players, and Okoro would have been a solid choice. But Lewis is a far better player and can be a very good defender in the Jrue Holiday mold.

15. Orlando-- Tyrese Maxey, G
Orlando misses out on the best PGs of the draft, but Maxey might end up being the next underrated Kentucky player who enters the league young and figures it out early. He'll play defense, is a solid passer, and, I suspect, a much better shooter than he showed in his one season in Kentucky.

16. Portland-- Jay Scrubb, wing
Portland makes the first major gamble in the draft. There are reports they really like his game, and there's no doubt Scrubb is an elite athlete. The Blazers are big believers in their own player development with good reason.

17. Minnesota-- Precious Achiuwa, PF/C
In the deal with San Antonio, the Wolves dealt a solid 25 mpg guy in James Johnson. They add Achiuwa as a defense-first PF to play in his stead. (He'll also be a backup center.)

18. Dallas-- Desmond Bane, G
Bane's had some good shooting numbers and is big enough and strong enough to be a solid defender at either guard spot. He's got a high floor and should be a nice piece as a second unit ball-handler.

19. Brooklyn-- RJ Hampton, F
The Nets are looking for upside here, and no one has more than Hampton. He can play either guard spot (or even the SF spot in a three-guard lineup). Playing in a run and gun offense could help him put up some solid numbers too, either with Kyrie or with Dinwiddie as a backcourt partner.

20. Miami-- Daniel Oturo, C
the Heat need very little, honestly, but a third center who can shoot? Sure, that'll work. He could well be a steal.

21. Philadelphia-- Tyrell Terry, PG
Philly gets a really nice piece here. Terry has bulked up. He's also a shooter, but not much of a playmaker. With Simmons, he doesn't need to be.

22. Denver-- Josh Green, wing
Denver could use another wing, as Harris has really struggled. Green should be a solid defender. He's got big upside.

23. Utah-- Cole Anthony, PG
The Jazz have a need for a second-unit playmaker, and Anthony would be a nice fit. He can score-- if he can make plays, he'll be a steal. If not, he'll be serviceable for a year or two.

24. Milwaukee-- Aleksej Pokusevski, C
Purely an upside play here, Milwaukee adds a C/PF who could be an All-Star/ Porzingis clone. He could also be out of the league in a couple of years.

25. Phoenix-- Jalen Smith, PF/C
Smith is a decent fit in Phoenix as a poor man's Ayton. He's a shooter out to the college three-point line and a solid rebounder. The question is defense. Can he get squared up?

26. Atlanta-- Tyler Bey, SF
Atlanta need defense, and Bey should be good in that respect. He should also be a solid offensive contributor if only on the break. I like the Shawn Marion vibe I get from him.

27. Houston-- Malachi Flynn, PG
The Knicks need lots of stuff, but they need shooting most. Flynn can do just that. He's also a relative hometown hero, having played at Syracuse. Undersized, but that doesn't matter as much as it used to. Flynn and Vassell is a pretty good draft day haul.

28. Los Angeles Lakers-- Jaden McDaniels, SF
Lakers go pure upside here, as McDaniels can play behind LeBron and Kuzma on the wing and perhaps spot AD some PF minutes as well. They'll have to do most of their work on the free agent market.

29. Toronto-- Paul Reed, PF/C
Reed's one of those kinds of players that is relatively intriguing, but has some serious questions. Can he shoot? At all? Not really. But Toronto does really well finding a spot for this type-- Reed can defend and rebound. He should be a nice asset as a second big off the bench. (For now.)

30. Atlanta-- Theo Maledon, wing
Melodon is a big guard who should be able to stick in the league a couple years in. He can develop behind some other young guys and get some time at both positions. Atlanta would likely prefer a PF, but who's left there that can shoot?

[M2]

Tyrell Terry would be a steal for the Sixers. Love all the wheeling and dealing in the mock.

[Kingspoint]

FWIW, Blazers need a Veteran a heck of a lot more than they need another 1st Rd draft pick. I see them trying to use the #16 pick in a trade scenario that nets them a Veteran with playoff experience, likely a front-court player.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Tyrell Terry would be a steal for the Sixers. Love all the wheeling and dealing in the mock.

I like Terry to the Sixers, love Haliburton's fit in Boston, and Minnesota's moves (DeRozan, Bey, Achiuwa) would make it a contender for the 8th playoff spot, for sure. Phoenix does well (Chris Paul and Jalen Smith) too. I like Atlanta's gamble, but I'm not sure it actually paid off in the mock. (Lewis, Maledon, and Bey is a nice haul, but they're all likely rotation guys and Haliburton might well be SGA good.

[adkindo]

28. Los Angeles Lakers-- Jaden McDaniels, SF
Lakers go pure upside here, as McDaniels can play behind LeBron and Kuzma on the wing and perhaps spot AD some PF minutes as well. They'll have to do most of their work on the free agent market.

it is a pure lottery ticket play, but I would be ok with it....give him a year in the GLeague similar to how they handled Talen Horton-Tucker this season. Try to have some young talent to come up and surround AD post Lebron.

[adkindo]

I felt like I was early on Haliburton....being in the B12 and knowing a little about him from high school competing against Jordan McCabe in Wisconsin. I thought this kid may be a pro....in a few years. Now I feel like everyone is pushing him a little high at this point. I worry he may need some time, and I not sure many teams take guys in the lottery and give them time...

[Bourgeois Zee]

it is a pure lottery ticket play, but I would be ok with it....give him a year in the GLeague similar to how they handled Talen Horton-Tucker this season. Try to have some young talent to come up and surround AD post Lebron.

I like Horton-Tucker as a defense-first third or fourth guard on next year's Laker squad.

Caruso has played his way into the third guard, Rondo is probably going to the Clippers to be Playoff Rondo there (after providing little during the season), and I'm also guessing KCP moves to Atlanta.

That means LA's probably left with Avery Bradley and free agency.

Jeff Teague would make all sorts of sense. Shooter who's willing to time-share the spot. Cheap. Doesn't need to bring the ball up court. If he's willing to sign for a monster bargain, Jordan Clarkson would be ideal offensively, but a train wreck on the defensive end of the ball. DJ Augustin might be the most Lakeriest ball player to never play for the purple and gold in the history of the game. I'm pretty sure he's the cloned son of Derek Fisher and Brian Shaw.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I worry he may need some time, and I not sure many teams take guys in the lottery and give them time...

I feel like Haliburton is the kind of player who'll make smart plays from the get-go. Coaches will trust those types of players and give them more leash as the season progresses. I'm pretty sure he won't lead a team in scoring, but he might be second across the board-- and play killer D. All while not making mistakes.

That's elite-level help.

[M2]

I like Terry to the Sixers, love Haliburton's fit in Boston, and Minnesota's moves (DeRozan, Bey, Achiuwa) would make it a contender for the 8th playoff spot, for sure. Phoenix does well (Chris Paul and Jalen Smith) too. I like Atlanta's gamble, but I'm not sure it actually paid off in the mock. (Lewis, Maledon, and Bey is a nice haul, but they're all likely rotation guys and Haliburton might well be SGA good.

If Haliburton develops a reliable deep game, he's going to be a handful. One guy you didn't mock that I figure someone will love in the late 1st round is Bolmaro. High chance of the Celtics taking him if they don't trade both their late picks (because they can wait a year or two for him if they wish).

Oh, and love the idea of DeRo in Minny.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Westbrook requests a trade from Houston.

Rev up those rumors.

What's New York's best offer? I'm fairly sure they'd resist moving Barrett, Mitchel Robinson, and the 6th pick in the draft. Beyond that, mix and match until you're happy.

Could the Clippers even make a deal (without a buy-out)?

Who's a darkhorse team who may need a ball-dominant PG?

Here's my sneaky, most under-the-radar move: Kemba and Kanter for Westbrook. Boston can throw in the 30th pick in this draft too.

[Rojo Rijo]

I really don't see a team who is actually contending picking up Westbrook. Too much potential for him to damage the structure of a winning franchise. I'd look for a team who is in desperate need of some star power that has been lacking for too long.

Orlando, Charlotte, New York, or Detroit would be my guesses.

[M2]

I want Russ to go to the Clippers just for the spectacle of it. Orlando could be the sleeper here. It needs electricity in its backcourt and it can make the salary swap work. I don't think Russ would get the Magic anywhere near a title, but he'd make the team fun to watch for a few years.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I want Russ to go to the Clippers just for the spectacle of it. Orlando could be the sleeper here. It needs electricity in its backcourt and it can make the salary swap work. I don't think Russ would get the Magic anywhere near a title, but he'd make the team fun to watch for a few years.

Westbrook could be a solid fit next to Fournier and Vucevic.

Who says no?

Westbrook for Aaron Gordon, Terrence Ross, and Al-Farouq Aminu.

Salaries work. Gordon's a good get, Ross could be decent next to Harden, and Aminu provides another big.

Might be the best offer Houston could hope for.

______________


EDIT: Hornets have entered the bidding on Westbrook.

LOVE that fit.

Who says no?

Westbrook for Terry Rozier, Bismark Biyombo, and Malik Monk.

That works for both teams really well, IMO.

Westbrook becomes the alpha male in a locker room that needs one. (And immediately helps that squad look like it might compete for a playoff spot.)

Houston gets both a helpful (cheaper) complimentary player in Rozier and the upside of Monk. Both of them could play next to Harden rather easily.

[M2]

Westbrook could be a solid fit next to Fournier and Vucevic.

Who says no?

Westbrook for Aaron Gordon, Terrence Ross, and Al-Farouq Aminu.

Salaries work. Gordon's a good get, Ross could be decent next to Harden, and Aminu provides another big.

Might be the best offer Houston could hope for.

______________


EDIT: Hornets have entered the bidding on Westbrook.

LOVE that fit.

Who says no?

Westbrook for Terry Rozier, Bismark Biyombo, and Malik Monk.

That works for both teams really well, IMO.

Westbrook becomes the alpha male in a locker room that needs one. (And immediately helps that squad look like it might compete for a playoff spot.)

Houston gets both a helpful (cheaper) complimentary player in Rozier and the upside of Monk. Both of them could play next to Harden rather easily.

I suspect Houston does either of those deals, though if I'm Orlando I try to make Fultz instead of Ross. I don't think Russ and Fultz are playable together.

Also, Biyombo's contract is done. Charlotte has enough cap room to make the deal work, but maybe Cody Zeller would be part of the mix. Mind you, I imagine Charlotte's trying to push the corpse of Nicholas Batum into the conversation.

[BillDoran]

I really don't see a team who is actually contending picking up Westbrook. Too much potential for him to damage the structure of a winning franchise. I'd look for a team who is in desperate need of some star power that has been lacking for too long.

Orlando, Charlotte, New York, or Detroit would be my guesses.

If you could level with Westbrook and get him to buy into: A) being a lower usage, complementary player, or B) a lighter-minute second-unit leader, I think he can still really be a big positive for a team. I'm especially partial to him as a 20-25 minute second-unit gunner. He could revert to triple-double mode and just go buck-wild. He'd be a nightmare matchup off the bench.

Of course, he's paid like he's an MVP, so that poses another problem, but the talent is still there. He still has a lot of ability. It just needs to be reined in.

He's never been once been bridled, so whether he's up for it at 32 (Happy birthday, Russ!) is anybody's guess. I do wonder whether he's as peevish as is presumed. I don't get the impression he likes reporters much, but my understanding is teammates love him, and I don't think any of his coaches have openly criticized him. I don't know if he'd be open to a smaller role, but I don't think he's the jerk the press portrays at times.

[M2]

Another potential Russ destination: Milwaukee.

It's got to go all in. There's been rumors of Chris Paul, but OKC might want some serious value in return for CP3. Houston might take a pile of bodies for Russ - Eric, Bledsoe, George Hill, Ersan Ilyasova, Robin Lopez.

[BillDoran]

Another potential Russ destination: Milwaukee.

It's got to go all in. There's been rumors of Chris Paul, but OKC might want some serious value in return for CP3. Houston might take a pile of bodies for Russ - Eric, Bledsoe, George Hill, Ersan Ilyasova, Robin Lopez.

I don't think the Bucks would want him. They need spacing and shooters. Westbrook would be like a more needy Bledsoe. If I was Horst, I wouldn't trade George Hill straight-up for Westbrook.

I do think Milwaukee will make a splash this offseason. They don't have much to work with as far as chips or cap space, but I'd be shocked if they only worked around the margins.

[Revering4Blue]

NBA Draft 2020: The 1st Round Forecast - Do Not Take This To The Bank

1) Trade Alert: Minnesota trades Jacob Evans, '20 first overall pick, to Charlotte for Miles Bridges, '20 pick #3, higher of '21 2nd round picks owed to Charlotte from Brooklyn and LA Clippers, respectively, 1st Round pick swap options (Minnesota's choice) in '22 and '24.

Charlotte selects: James Wiseman C | Memphis -- At last, a defensive presence in the middle, and possible future unicorn. Hornets will then target a wing with pick #32.

2) Trade Alert: Golden State trades Andrew Wiggins and pick #2 to Detroit for Blake Griffin and pick #7.

Detroit selects: LaMelo Ball PG | Illawarra -- Pistons will get nowhere by playing it safe. And Casey has a decent track record of developing young players.

3) Minnesota selects: Anthony Edwards SG | Georgia -- In time, Russell and Edwards may be quite the back-court duo.

4) Chicago selects: Deni Avdija SF/SG | Maccabi Tel Aviv -- At close to '6 10'', the versatile Avdija will be difficult for Karnishovas to pass up.

5) Cleveland selects: Obi Toppin F | Dayton -- The best '20 Collegiate player remains in state.

6) Trade Alert: Atlanta trades pick #6 to Boston for Romeo Langford, pick #14 and pick #26.

Boston selects: Tyrese Haliburton PG | Iowa State -- Think Ron Harper - The complete, play-making, solid defending, pre ACL injury, late '80's version. You don't wait around for that type of player at #14 when you're in win-now mode.

7) Golden State selects: Aaron Nesmith G/F | Vanderbilt -- Just what the Warriors need (and the remainder of the league fears): Another 3-and-D shooter.

8) Trade Alert: New York trades pick #8 and pick #38 to San Antonio for DeMar DeRozan, pick #11 and pick #41.

San Antonio selects: Onyeka Okongwu PF/C | USC -- The Spurs have several young perimeter players on their roster, but no one with Okongwu's skillset. This is a brilliant move.

9) Washington selects: Devin Vassell SG/SF | Florida State -- While Washington coveted Okongwu, they'll welcome one of the draft's premier 3-and-D players with open arms.

10) Phoenix selects: Patrick Williams F | Florida State -- With the rumored Oubre Jr. and Rubio for Chris Paul seemingly making too much sense not to come to fruition, Suns turn their attention towards a forward with O.G Anunoby's skillset, who will fit right in.

11) New York selects: Killian Hayes PG/SG | Ratiopharm Ulm -- Whether or not DeRozen is re-routed to Houston in a deal for Russell Westbrook, this pick makes too much sense.

12) Sacramento selects: Saddiq Bey SF | Villanova -- Kings front office cannot transmit selection choice to Commissioner Silver fast enough.

13) New Orleans selects: Kira Lewis Jr. PG | Alabama -- Jrue Holiday may be on the move. Either way, Pels land the draft's fastest end-to-end player.

14) Atlanta selects: Isaac Okoro SF | Auburn -- After obtaining a young player with a high ceiling from Boston - Romeo Langford - who better fits the Hawks' timeline, Hawks land a much-needed multi-positional defender, who may become more in time.

15) Orlando selects: RJ Hampton SG/PG | NZ Breakers -- Hampton's upside (certain scouts have compared him with a young Jamal Murray) is too high to pass up here.

16) Portland selects: Jalen Smith PF/C | Maryland -- The next Myles Turner? Possibly. And with Whiteside facing free agency, freeing up resources to obtain 3-and-D forward help, this pick also makes sense as a need for Portland, as Smith can play both PF and C.

17) Minnesota selects: Precious Achiuwa PF | Memphis -- A versatile defender and rim-runner. In other words, a nice fit alongside Karl-Anthony Towns.

18) Dallas selects: Tyrese Maxey SG/PG | Kentucky -- Tough, defensive-minded guard with emerging offensive game, which the Mavericks can certainly use.

19) Brooklyn selects: Cole Anthony PG | North Carolina -- As of now, not really a fit. But Anthony began the season as a top five prospect, and Dinwiddie may be on the move.

20) Trade Alert: Miami trades Kendrick Nunn, Andre Iquodala, KZ Okpala and pick #20 to Indiana for Victor Oladipo and pick #54.

Indiana selects: Desmond Bane SG | TCU -- Pacers make the best of what appears to be an untenable position with Oladipo, as Pat Riley trumps all offers for Oladipo without decimating his core. As for the pick of Bane, what's not to like, as he shot 43% from three point range with a solid all-around game.

21) Philadelphia selects: Tyrell Terry PG | Stanford -- This pick simply makes too much sense here, as virtually every mock draft out there will attest. And Terry is the type of player that Morey will assuredly covet.

22) Denver selects: Aleksej Pokuševski PF/C | Olympiacos B -- A likely draft-and-stash option, which is fine, as any rookie would be hard-pressed to crack the Denver roster in '21.

23) Utah selects: Josh Green G/F | Arizona -- A team with designs of taking the next step as legitimate contender in the West (or East, for that matter) can never have enough 3-and-D candidates.

24) Milwaukee selects: Tyler Bey SF | Colorado -- Bucks are in win-now mode, and Bey will undoubtedly provide immediate help in many aspects of the game.

25) Oklahoma City selects: Jaden McDaniels SF | Washington -- A high upside pick with a long wingspan selected by OKC. In my best Gomer Pyle voice: Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!

26) Atlanta selects: Theo Maledon PG | ASVEL - A tall secondary ball-handler who fits the Hawks' timeline.

27) New York selects: Daniel Oturu C | Minnesota -- Knicks land a big whose game compliments, rather than overlaps, Mitchell Robinson's.

28) Los Angeles Lakers select -- Jahmi'us Ramsey SG | Texas Tech -- Lakers land a bench element who can get to the rim, shoot from the perimeter and defend.

29) Toronto selects: Isaiah Stewart PF/C | Washington -- Whether contending, rebuilding or reloading, a young big with tremendous upside makes all kinds of sense.

30) Trade Alert: Boston trades pick #30 to Sacramento for picks 35 and 43.

Kings select: Malachi Flynn PG | San Diego State -- Let's face it, Joseph and Ferrell aren't cutting it as backup PGs. And Flynn is so talented that he's likely to see time next to Fox, as well.

As for the Celtics, they now have three second round picks in which to go fishing in a pond with just as much value as pick #30. And -- note to Elton Brand (see last year's draft) -- second round picks have no cap hold attached to them, so one can actually use them, rather than selling them for cash.

[Bourgeois Zee]

NBA Draft 2020: The 1st Round Forecast - Do Not Take This To The Bank

Your draft (and draft trades) are much more fun than mine.

Well done!

Love the (hypothetical) moves in Detroit (Ball, sure, but Wiggins makes so much sense) and Golden State (Blake back on the West Coast and Nesmith? Shudder.)

Atlanta does get royally screwed here-- unless they somehow view Langford as a premier piece. I can't see that.

[adkindo]

28) Los Angeles Lakers select -- Jahmi'us Ramsey SG | Texas Tech -- Lakers land a bench element who can get to the rim, shoot from the perimeter and defend.

I approve...I am higher on Ramsey than most..I think. Rumor is out there today the Lakers may consider moving Green and Kuzma for DeRozan.....not sure if the pick would be involved, but it could change who they would take at #28....especially if they bring back KCP.

[M2]

Your draft (and draft trades) are much more fun than mine.

Well done!

Love the (hypothetical) moves in Detroit (Ball, sure, but Wiggins makes so much sense) and Golden State (Blake back on the West Coast and Nesmith? Shudder.)

Atlanta does get royally screwed here-- unless they somehow view Langford as a premier piece. I can't see that.

If Ball and Wiggins are on the same roster that team needs a vet who scares them to death and whose approval they value above all else.

[Revering4Blue]

Your draft (and draft trades) are much more fun than mine.

Well done!

And thanks again for your mock draft.

I never would have thought of the idea of DeRozan in Minnesota - which I love - nor with adding picks to the rumored Suns/OKC deal. Talk about fun!


Atlanta does get royally screwed here-- unless they somehow view Langford as a premier piece. I can't see that.

We have to remember that Langford tore a ligament in his thumb in November of '18 - the week of the IU/Duke game - and played through the pain the remainder of his lone NCAA season, which obviously contributed to his collegiate shooting woes, and he suffered through an injury-plagued year, both in the G League and with Boston. The upside, with his 6' 11" wingspan, is still there, and I don't feel that picks 14, 26 and 30 in this unusual low-ceiling (overall) draft will net you pick 6 with Haliburton on board.

I actually considered Haliburton at #2 to Detroit and #3 to Minnesota in my mock, as I am probably higher on him than anyone else in this draft. That said, it seems likely that Boston, should they land the 6th pick, would package it with matching salaries (including Hayward) and additional assets to send to New Orleans in exchange for Jrue Holiday.

We shall see.

[Revering4Blue]

I approve...I am higher on Ramsey than most..I think. Rumor is out there today the Lakers may consider moving Green and Kuzma for DeRozan.....not sure if the pick would be involved, but it could change who they would take at #28....especially if they bring back KCP.

I, too, feel as though I am higher on Ramsey than most given the right situation.

I was unaware of the DeRozen to the Lakers rumor until an hour or so ago, but it's my understanding that the salaries of Green and Kuzma don't match the salary of DeMar, with Avery Bradley (one rumored element in the DeMar deal) likely opting out.

But even if the 28th pick is involved in any re-worked deal for DeRozan, I would not put it past Pelinka to acquire a 2nd rounder in this draft for cash from one of several teams with multiple 2nd rounders to grab a future contributor.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Oh, my:


Farbod Esnaashari: A source is telling me that the Nets have engaged in talks with the Rockets. James Harden for a variation of: Spencer Dinwiddie, Caris LeVert, Taurean Prince, and Jarrett Allen. Nothing finalized, but Harden to Nets seems like real possibility. If finalized, announced on Nov 22.

[M2]

Houston ought to make that trade.

[Revering4Blue]

Oh, my:


Houston ought to make that trade.

- Can't see any proposed Harden-based deal with Brooklyn going down without at least one future 1st rounder AND a future 1st pick swap option also heading to Houston.

- I'm not saying that they will, but Philly easily could beat that offer from Brooklyn for Harden by basing a package around Ben Simmons.

[Revering4Blue]

Interesting.


According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Thunder and Lakers have been discussing a possible trade involving Dennis Schroder.

Per Wojnarowski, Danny Green and the 28th overall pick in Wednesday's draft would be headed to Oklahoma City. While the NBA trade moratorium will be lifted Monday afternoon, the deal would not be able to be completed until after the Lakers make their pick Wednesday night. If the two teams agree to the trade that pick would essentially be made on behalf of the Thunder. Schroder was one of the NBA's best reserves last season, but his role in L.A. would be determined by the statuses of Avery Bradley and Rajon Rondo. While Rondo, the backup point guard last season, has already decided to opt out Bradley has yet to make his decision. Bradley, who was a starter for the Lakers, opted out of the bubble for family reasons.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Lakers get Schroder, and OKC gets the 28th pick and Danny Green.

Good deal for LA, for sure. Schroder's solid, especially around good vets (and LeBron is one of the best). He's become a very good shooter, rebounds very well for a guard, and passes very well. As a secondary ball handler and PG, he's much better than Green or Rondo. OKC gets younger, with the pick.

[texasdave]

Highway robbery for the Lakers.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Highway robbery for the Lakers.

I'm with you. I don't get Presti's plan here, unless another team likes Green.

[adkindo]

Schroder would be a solid fit with the Lakers and he only has one more year on that contract. I would assume that makes Rondo less likely to return.

[BillDoran]

Highway robbery for the Lakers.

Agreed. I thought there must be some salary considerations that made this worthwhile for the Thunder. But it appears Green and Schroeder's contracts are pretty much interchangeable. Suppose Presti is going into tanking mode and figures he gets worse and gains a late first round pick.

Schroeder really made a leap this year as a secondary ball handler/playmaker. Playing off of Paul really made his game play up. Schroeder, Avery Bradley, Caruso and Quinn Cook are the start of a really good back court. Would love to see them add another backcourt piece and some wing help. Wonder what Kuzma (and his $3 million contract) would return them.

[Kingspoint]

Seriously? No other team offered more than Danny Green and the #28 pick for Shroeder? I find that hard to believe.

[texasdave]

Seriously? No other team offered more than Danny Green and the #28 pick for Shroeder? I find that hard to believe.

Especially, when you consider this from ESPN:
Schroder, 27, has been one of the most sought-after guards in the trade market. Teams were bidding for Schroder, and this is the final tally? Impossible.

[Kingspoint]

Especially, when you consider this from ESPN: Teams were bidding for Schroder, and this is the final tally? Impossible.

I wouldn't hesitate for one second to give Simons and the #16 pick for Schroeder, even if it is for only one season of Shroeder. A 3-Guard lineup of Lillard/C.J./Schroeder with the team finally having a legitimate PG. That's a no-brainer trade. The #16 pick does nothing for Portland. I'm sure many other teams who wish to contend could offer a better package than that.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I wouldn't hesitate for one second to give Simons and the #16 pick for Schroeder, even if it is for only one season of Shroeder. A 3-Guard lineup of Lillard/C.J./Schroeder with the team finally having a legitimate PG. That's a no-brainer trade. The #16 pick does nothing for Portland. I'm sure many other teams who wish to contend could offer a better package than that.

I think Presti is assuming he can move Green at a later date for two second rounders to add to his draft haul.

I could see a Green for Josh Richardson and two 2nd rounders deal working out for both teams.

[adkindo]

OKC will probably try to flip green....appears they are going to tank for what is expected to be a better draft in 2021.

[M2]

Seriously? No other team offered more than Danny Green and the #28 pick for Shroeder? I find that hard to believe.

That's got to be about cash. Could be a portent of more something for nothing trades.

[BillDoran]

Maybe we're collectively undervaluing Danny Green?

[Revering4Blue]

Maybe we're collectively undervaluing Danny Green?As a veteran with an expiring deal himself, Green could be of value to a contender at the deadline if Presti retains him for that time period.

Related question...Does Presti ensure that OKC receives some form of compensation for Gallinari in a sign-and-trade transaction?

Sent from my SM-T560NU using Tapatalk

[adkindo]

Maybe we're collectively undervaluing Danny Green?

In a vacuum, I do not think we are.....but at the deadline to a contending team, Green will have major interest. I am not evaluating or considering what they will actually need, but if you are a team like the Nuggets and you are having a great season and truly think you have a shot.....you want to add a piece like Danny Green who has been there and done that.

[Stray]

Maybe we're collectively undervaluing Danny Green?

He's a good defender but outside of that he doesn't really give you anything. I don't think he's undervalued at all.

[dubc47834]

Not that it's unexpected, but AD failed to opt in to the final year on his deal. Not sure how much more money this will allow him to make, but it will be more.

[Revering4Blue]

By no means a blockbuster, but worth reporting..

The Brooklyn Nets have agreed to acquire Bruce Brown from the Detroit Pistons for Dzanan Musa and a 2021 second round pick via the Toronto Raptors.

Brown should become part of Brooklyn's rotation in the backcourt.

For the Pistons, this is the first move since Troy Weaver became general manager and signals his intent to stockpile future draft assets.

ADRIAN WOJNAROWSKI/ESPN

[adkindo]

Not that it's unexpected, but AD failed to opt in to the final year on his deal. Not sure how much more money this will allow him to make, but it will be more.

it will be a little more, but the primary reason is to lock up a little more security. He can do a 2+1 (PO) which guarantees 100+ Million in additional lifetime earnings no matter what happens tomorrow that could impact his career.....and be in position to opt back on the market in 2 years and get the massive deal for a 10 year player.

- - - Updated - - -


By no means a blockbuster, but worth reporting..

The Brooklyn Nets have agreed to acquire Bruce Brown from the Detroit Pistons for Dzanan Musa and a 2021 second round pick via the Toronto Raptors.

Brown should become part of Brooklyn's rotation in the backcourt.

For the Pistons, this is the first move since Troy Weaver became general manager and signals his intent to stockpile future draft assets.

ADRIAN WOJNAROWSKI/ESPN

I like Brown as a rotation guy.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Chris Paul goes to Phoenix. Oubre, Rubio, Jerome, Lecque, and a 1st rounder goes back to OKC.

Presti continues to make moves. So many moves.

Love Oubre in OKC. They've needed a real two-way wing for a long time, and I think Oubre's a solid pick. Rubio's salary ballast, but could be solid second-unit guy or work with SGA in a starting lineup. Adding these guys to SGA and Green, Dort, Darius Bazley, Terrence Ferguson, Hami Diallo-- that's a lot of backcourt help. (And doesn't even include other rosterable options.) I have no clue what Presti has in mind moving forward, but he'll have to balance his roster relatively soon. Watch for more deals.

As for Phoenix, Paul makes them much more interesting. Booker and Paul might be the second-best shooting backcourt in the NBA. This probably allows both Cam Payne and Jevon Carter to be re-signed (if they're not too expensive). Cam Johnson and Mikal Bridges can man the SF spot. Saric is a must-sign, at this point. Look for the Suns to focus on either a SF or a PF in the draft. They're going for it, and I respect that.

[M2]

Oubre + SGA is an interesting pairing. Will be interesting to see what they add with a Gallinari sign-and-trade and an Adams trade. And isn't the 2022 draft going to be the double class?

Paul needs to pay off this year. Probably a good bet to do it (never has failed). Yet something always seems to go wrong for the Suns.

[RiverRat13]

Chris Paul goes to Phoenix. Oubre, Rubio, Jerome, Lecque, and a 1st rounder goes back to OKC.

Presti continues to make moves. So many moves.

Love Oubre in OKC. They've needed a real two-way wing for a long time, and I think Oubre's a solid pick. Rubio's salary ballast, but could be solid second-unit guy or work with SGA in a starting lineup. Adding these guys to SGA and Green, Dort, Darius Bazley, Terrence Ferguson, Hami Diallo-- that's a lot of backcourt help. (And doesn't even include other rosterable options.) I have no clue what Presti has in mind moving forward, but he'll have to balance his roster relatively soon. Watch for more deals.

As for Phoenix, Paul makes them much more interesting. Booker and Paul might be the second-best shooting backcourt in the NBA. This probably allows both Cam Payne and Jevon Carter to be re-signed (if they're not too expensive). Cam Johnson and Mikal Bridges can man the SF spot. Saric is a must-sign, at this point. Look for the Suns to focus on either a SF or a PF in the draft. They're going for it, and I respect that.

The Suns are kind of like the Reds from last offseason - not really good enough to "go for it," but actually trying to win is a whole lot more fun than sitting in mediocre purgatory. I'll be rooting that it works out.

[Bourgeois Zee]

The Suns are kind of like the Reds from last offseason - not really good enough to "go for it," but actually trying to win is a whole lot more fun than sitting in mediocre purgatory. I'll be rooting that it works out.

Good call.

Paul is still an elite PG.

Booker's as good as almost any 2G.

Bridges might be an elite defense-first 3-and-D wing. (And Cam Johnson might also be sneaky good.)

Saric played very well in the bubble.

Ayton's developing.

That team still has some serious questions, but Monty Williams is, by all accounts, beloved and capable.

- - - Updated - - -


Oubre + SGA is an interesting pairing.

I'm wondering if the Thunder believe SGA is a combo guard and not a point guard.

[adkindo]

The Suns are pretty much trying to get Booker in the playoffs so his frustration does not lead to wanting to play in another city. They should be able to contend for a playoff spot.

[Bourgeois Zee]

The Suns are pretty much trying to get Booker in the playoffs so his frustration does not lead to wanting to play in another city. They should be able to contend for a playoff spot.

They also have the draft pick at #10 and who they can get with the extra $18M or so they have when they do the cap gymnastics with the Paul deal.

I'm guessing they'll target an elite shooter (Nesmith and Saddiq Bey should both be available) on the wing or perhaps an heir apparent PG (Kira Lewis or Killian Hayes, maybe).

[Rojo Rijo]

And isn't the 2022 draft going to be the double class?

Yep, the reverse of the 2006 draft, two years worth of top HS players. Most reports have said teams have been clinging to 2022 1sts in trade talks, or at least appropriately protecting them. Here is what I could find so far:

-Atlanta owns Oklahoma City's 1st top 14 protected. OKC gives up 2024 and 2025 2nds if not conveyed
-Brooklyn owns a 2nd from Indiana in 2021 45-60 protected which is then 45-60 protected again in 2022.
-Chicago owns the right to a 2nd rd swap with Detroit or Lakers (Washington gets most favorable of the picks).
-Cleveland owns a 1st from Milwaukee 1-10 protected in 2022.
-Cleveland owns 2nds from Houston, San Antonio, and Washington.
-Golden State owns a 2021 1st top 3 protected, unprotected in 2022.
-Golden State owns a 2nd from Toronto.
-Indiana owns a 2nd from Miami.
-Clippers own a 2nd from Atlanta 31-55 protected.
-Memphis owns a 2021 1st from Utah 1-7 and 15-30 protected in 2021 then 1-6 protected in 2022.
-Memphis owns a 2nd from Detroit or Chicago, less favorable.
-Miami owns a 2nd from Philadelphia or Denver, less favorable.
-Milwaukee owns a 2nd from Indiana (only happens once Indiana has conveyed a 2nd to Brooklyn which has 45-60 protections for 2021 and 2022 before being unprotected in 2023.
-Minnesota owns a 2nd from Philadelphia or Denver, whichever is more favorable.
-New Orleans owns a 2021 1st from the Lakers but it is 8-30 protected and is then unprotected in 2022.
-New Orleans owns a 2nd from Cleveland.
-Oklahoma City owns a 1st from the Clippers
-Washington owns a 2nd from the most favorable of Chicago, Detroit, or Lakers.

You can actually see how teams have dug down to hold on to their 2022 capital as there have been a lot of 2023 picks dealt. From the looks of it New Orleans, Oklahoma City, and Cleveland are the few teams who are holding some pretty decent draft capital for 2022.

Also I would assume any team looking to pick up Harden or Russ will be asked to part with their 2022 1st.

[Rojo Rijo]

The Suns are pretty much trying to get Booker in the playoffs so his frustration does not lead to wanting to play in another city. They should be able to contend for a playoff spot.

As they should. Booker could be a nightmare (good for his team, bad for the rest of the teams) on a contender. Not sure how much his D could play up but offensively he's a lights out shooter who can score at all 3 levels with ease.

[Revering4Blue]

Yet something always seems to go wrong for the Suns.

That something is owner Robert Sarver's meddling.

Now, if he butts out and allows his basketball people (Front Office and Coaches) to work...

[M2]

In the world of idle rumor, supposedly if the Celtics move up they want Okongwu. Where they have to land to make that happen, I don't know.

[adkindo]

Yep, the reverse of the 2006 draft, two years worth of top HS players.

if it actually happens, it is also about the actual players that should be in that draft....Emoni Bates, Chet Holmgren, Patrick Baldwin Jr. and many others. If the hype plays out, these guys are considered more than your typical 5 Stars....as more than a few people have considered Bates on the level of Lebron and AD as prospects....a can't miss type guy. It truly could be one of those drafts that begins to transform the league for the next era.

[adkindo]

Sources: James Harden rejects Rockets extension; focus on trade to Nets (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30332878/sources-houston-rockets-star-james-harden-focused-trade-nets)


This has been described by one source as "his AD moment," in reference to All-Star Anthony Davis who forced his way out of New Orleans for the opportunity to win a title with the Los Angeles Lakers.

I call this line bs....AD was in New Orleans for 7 years and the FO was never able to put a contending roster around him....the Houston FO has bent over backwards to ensure Harden has a contender level roster around him. He himself holds some of the blame for their inability to win a championship in Houston. If I am Houston, I do not consider it unless Brooklyn will overpay.

[RedTeamGo!]

In the world of idle rumor, supposedly if the Celtics move up they want Okongwu. Where they have to land to make that happen, I don't know.

My older brother is the biggest basketball fan I know and he spent all afternoon today texting me about Okongwu. In his opinion he’s the best player in this draft class.

[adkindo]

My older brother is the biggest basketball fan I know and he spent all afternoon today texting me about Okongwu. In his opinion he’s the best player in this draft class.

nothing good has ever came out of Chino Hills....:D

I honestly did not watch much of him @ USC....but he is getting tons of buzz

[BillDoran]

nothing good has ever came out of Chino Hills....:D

I honestly did not watch much of him @ USC....but he is getting tons of buzz

I like Okongwu a lot, and I think he has a really high floor, but I also think he's getting a significant Bam Adebayo bump. I think he's a notch below Bam and has as much a chance as becoming Ian Mahinmi as he does Bam.

[Rojo Rijo]

Houston sending Robert Covington to Portland for Trevor Ariza, a 2020 1st, and a 2021 protected 1st.

Houston starting to break it down.

[BillDoran]

Shams Charania is reporting Jrue Holiday is heading to Milwaukee for Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, three firsts and two pick swaps.

That's quite a price for Holiday.

[Kingspoint]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT4psI5AfAsgnLbFoDiBzWte8iqv13y5 W3pRA&usqp=CAU

[Kingspoint]

I have wanted Covington for five years. Don't know how many times I've said it on this site.

CHAMPIONSHIP!

Sign Robin Lopez and a Veteran PG with the MLE and Vet Min and the building blocks are all in place.

[Kingspoint]

My older brother is the biggest basketball fan I know and he spent all afternoon today texting me about Okongwu. In his opinion he’s the best player in this draft class.

Whoever the Celtics target always seems to be the best player.

[BillDoran]

Houston sending Robert Covington to Portland for Trevor Ariza, a 2020 1st, and a 2021 protected 1st.

Houston starting to break it down.

Boy, Covington is a great fit for the Blazers.

Lillard, McCollum, Hood, Covington and Nurkic. Bench is thin right now, but that's a tough lineup. Don't think it wins the West, but if they stay healthy that's a team than can cause some problems.

[Kingspoint]

Btw, Ariza can be bought out for about $2M on a team option.

[Rojo Rijo]

Shams Charania is reporting Jrue Holiday is heading to Milwaukee for Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, three firsts and two pick swaps.

That's quite a price for Holiday.

All in to keep Giannis. It’s championship or bust and as much as I like Jrue it’s going to take more, especially if Brooklyn lives up to potential.

[Kingspoint]

Boy, Covington is a great fit for the Blazers.

Lillard, McCollum, Hood, Covington and Nurkic. Bench is thin right now, but that's a tough lineup. Don't think it wins the West, but if they stay healthy that's a team than can cause some problems.

The bench will be Trent, Collins, the backup C and the backup PG they get with the MLE and Vet Min, plus they will still have Little, Gabriel and Simons improving. Hezonja makes 13.

[Kingspoint]

So many players are available for Portland to fill the backup Center and backup PG positions (although they went into last season without one, which was a mistake as Simons flopped in that role). Heck, Covington can run point.

[Kingspoint]

Man, I hope I can get a vaccine by the time the playoffs start and get to go to the games.

[RedTeamGo!]

Why did Robert Covington cost 2 first round picks? His stats aren’t that great, I don’t get it?

[Rojo Rijo]

Why did Robert Covington cost 2 first round picks? His stats aren’t that great, I don’t get it?

This is a weak draft so Portland’s #16 could probably be valued around what would be an early to mid 20s pick in a normal draft. The 2021 pick has protections that have not yet been announced. Also Covington is one of the most underrated players in the league. He’s really good for a player that has never been even remotely considered a star.

[Rojo Rijo]

Rumors are saying Portland will go after Millsap.

[M2]

Shams Charania is reporting Jrue Holiday is heading to Milwaukee for Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, three firsts and two pick swaps.

That's quite a price for Holiday.

Big move for the Bucks. Holiday gives them some options to play Giannis off-ball. Also should provide a marked difference to Bledsoe's annual playoff disappearance routine.

[M2]

Boy, Covington is a great fit for the Blazers.

Lillard, McCollum, Hood, Covington and Nurkic. Bench is thin right now, but that's a tough lineup. Don't think it wins the West, but if they stay healthy that's a team than can cause some problems.

I'm kind of medium on Covington overall, but he's the best forward that team has had since Aldridge. This is the kind of move the Blazers need to be making. Another forward (because I don't think pre-Achilles Hood was cutting it) is still needed. Millsap is an interesting possibility. I'd like to see them get someone who can create his own shot and change the point of attack. That's not really Millsap anymore, but he still puts in a decent shift.

I'm guessing the Rockets won't pick up the team option on Ariza and he'll become a free agent.

[adkindo]

Shams Charania is reporting Jrue Holiday is heading to Milwaukee for Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, three firsts and two pick swaps.

That's quite a price for Holiday.

I do not like this at all....if it works, the Bucks could be very legit next season. Built for the playoffs legit.

[adkindo]

Btw, Ariza can be bought out for about $2M on a team option.

yeah, have to assume he will not play for Houston if they move Harden/Westbrook.

[adkindo]

I'm guessing the Rockets won't pick up the team option on Ariza and he'll become a free agent.

Pelinka still has a good relationship with Ariza....could see that as a possibility.

[Kingspoint]

You can't trade your own 1st Round pick two years in a row, so the conditional to HOU has to be the choice of "if Portland acquires someone else's 1st next season or they get Portland's 1st in 2022.

- - - Updated - - -


yeah, have to assume he will not play for Houston if they move Harden/Westbrook.

Yeah, that's got to be a given.

[Kingspoint]

I'm kind of medium on Covington overall, but he's the best forward that team has had since Aldridge. This is the kind of move the Blazers need to be making. Another forward (because I don't think pre-Achilles Hood was cutting it) is still needed. Millsap is an interesting possibility. I'd like to see them get someone who can create his own shot and change the point of attack. That's not really Millsap anymore, but he still puts in a decent shift.

I'm guessing the Rockets won't pick up the team option on Ariza and he'll become a free agent.

Covington has been used incorrectly every year everywhere he's been. Stotts and Lillard will get the most out of him. Hell have his best year ever in every category, except maybe Defensive Rating, of course.

Rumors flying that Portland was talking to Milsap.

Regarding Milsap...I haven't seen a player get so bad so fast since Joe Namath put on a Rams uniform. I really hope he doesn't don a Blazers' uniform.

[Kingspoint]

Why did Robert Covington cost 2 first round picks? His stats aren’t that great, I don’t get it?

Because the 2nd one probably won't be in 2021 (they can't trade their own to anyone since they just traded their own 2020 away), unless they acquire a 1st from someone else to give HOU the option of picking it or taking POR's 2022 1st. POR's 2022 should be in the bottom 20's.

[Betterread]

So many players are available for Portland to fill the backup Center and backup PG positions (although they went into last season without one, which was a mistake as Simons flopped in that role). Heck, Covington can run point.

Covington is a great acquisition for your roster. His defense and IQ are elite, his shooting range and accuracy are solid but his handle is mediocre. He can finish plays, but you don’t want him creating or running your offense.
He is also a super decent guy who is grateful for his NBA career. we loved him in Minnesota.

[BillDoran]

Milwaukee isn't done!

Bogdan Bogdanovic for Donte DiVincenzo, Ersan Ilyasova and D.J. Wilson.

The Buck's starting five:


Jrue Holiday
Bogdan Bogdanovic
Khris Middleton
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Brook Lopez

If Bud can't win with that, he'll need to find a new line of work.

[Kingspoint]

Evan Turner just turned into Robert Covington
Turner to Bazemore to Ariza to Covington.

Also Wenyen if we resign. And it only cost us a mid first in a weak draft, and a protected future first at a time when we are trying to contend. All is well.

[Kingspoint]

https://twitter.com/i/status/1328564934964170752

[texasdave]

Why did Robert Covington cost 2 first round picks? His stats aren’t that great, I don’t get it?

I agree in totality. I don't get the buzz on this board for Covington. Meh.

[texasdave]

This is a weak draft so Portland’s #16 could probably be valued around what would be an early to mid 20s pick in a normal draft. The 2021 pick has protections that have not yet been announced. Also Covington is one of the most underrated players in the league. He’s really good for a player that has never been even remotely considered a star.

If this is true, and I have no reason to think it's not, that would make the #28 pick received by OKC worth about a #40 pick. I wonder what caliber gun the Lakers held to Presti's head?

[adkindo]

If this is true, and I have no reason to think it's not, that would make the #28 pick received by OKC worth about a #40 pick. I wonder what caliber gun the Lakers held to Presti's head?

maybe he felt bad for costing the Lakers Kawhi...

[Rojo Rijo]

If this is true, and I have no reason to think it's not, that would make the #28 pick received by OKC worth about a #40 pick. I wonder what caliber gun the Lakers held to Presti's head?

Yeah that deal makes zero sense to me. Seems like Presti just wants to stock pile as much draft ammo as possible but I still can't understand why there wasn't a better offer out there. The only thing that I could possibly understand would be Schroder somehow leveraging himself to be traded to a team of his preference. Not on a Melo to NY level but maybe a "I'm happy here, if you guys trade me I would prefer it to be to one of the following teams....or I will be unhappy" in some form of words like that. But this is pure speculation so who knows.

[texasdave]

You can't trade your own 1st Round pick two years in a row, so the conditional to HOU has to be the choice of "if Portland acquires someone else's 1st next season or they get Portland's 1st in 2022.

- - - Updated - - -



Yeah, that's got to be a given.

They are going to get around that by having Portland pick the player of Houston's choosing this season, after which the trade will be completed. Then the Rockets will get the Blazers pick in 2021, unless Portland ends up in the lottery. Sneaky they are.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I like the Covington deal for Portland. They need defense in the worst possible way, and Covington can provide that. He won't be asked to do much more on offense than shoot-- and he can do that too. Solid deal for a known quantity.

Houston gets a draft pick that may help and salary easement.

It also makes me think Houston is truly going to blow everything up. Harden. Westbrook. PJ Tucker. Maybe even Eric Gordon (if they can find someone to take on that contract).

[Bourgeois Zee]

Sacramento must love Donte DiVincenzo to make the Bogdanovich deal. In abbreviated minutes, he's shown an ability to defend-- which they need desperately. He's also a solid rebounder. But he's not the shooter Bogdanovic is, nor is he the playmaker. Perhaps DiVincenzo has another breakout in him. Regardless, Sacramento better hope he does because they spent decent coin on him. DJ Wilson regressed from a pedestrian rookie season to unplayable and Ersan Ilyasova is 114 years old (though still capable in short spurts).

This should open up a spot for Hield in the starting lineup-- assuming he stays in California and isn't dealt for pennies on the dollar. He really wanted that.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Love the Holiday deal for NOLA.

Three first rounders, including gambling that Giannis moves on after this season strikes me as a good one even if it doesn't pan out. Bledsoe, despite his playoff struggles, is an outstanding defender who should fit well with Ball in the Pelican backcourt. The addition of George Hill as a secondary combo guard is a good one too. Redick and Hill should kill opposing teams from deep. Add Hart as a wing/ fifth guard. That's some quality depth for NOLA, and it allows Williamson and Ingram to be the alphas around which the rest of the squad will work. (Perhaps Ball will become a better PG at this point. He's been far too streaky and prone to massive blunders that cost games for far in his young career.)

Holiday is a good fit in Milwaukee, but they paid a premium for him. Others available (Oladipo, for example) could have come far cheaper, I suspect. Still, he and Bogdanovich give them some playmaking beyond Giannis and better shooting-- a requirement for the Bucks' playoff hopes. Moving forward, they'll have to rely on veterans chasing rings to balance out their roster and provide depth. I'd still like to see them add at least one more shooter at the wing spot. Darius Miller should soon be available in New Orleans (his contract isn't guaranteed)-- he can shoot and should be serviceable defensively in their scheme. He might make some sense.

[adkindo]

Yeah that deal makes zero sense to me. Seems like Presti just wants to stock pile as much draft ammo as possible but I still can't understand why there wasn't a better offer out there. The only thing that I could possibly understand would be Schroder somehow leveraging himself to be traded to a team of his preference. Not on a Melo to NY level but maybe a "I'm happy here, if you guys trade me I would prefer it to be to one of the following teams....or I will be unhappy" in some form of words like that. But this is pure speculation so who knows.

As a Laker fan, I have mixed feelings about the deal. It appears the Lakers are making this deal with the intention of resigning Schröder. Is Schröder really the PG you want to settle on for much of the AD era? He was great off the bench in OKC...but he still came off the bench on a mediocre team. I also am not a huge fan of the Lakers approach, which has always been fully commit while the window is open....and to them they means a team full of veterans, no time to develop any young talent, and no use for draft assets. The result is often good for a few years, then you find yourself with this old team and no young talent which requires a full rebuild. San Antonio showed us for 2 decades that it does not have to be done that way, you can find talent later in the draft, and continuing to develop that talent will never leave the roster totally bare. If I was the Lakers, and I only have a pick every other year for a while....I am keeping those picks and trying to get a steal or two so when AD is 32, there is some young talent that can help him with the load and he is not forced to choose between leaving or spending his final years like Kobe did on a roster depleted of talent to compete.

[Bourgeois Zee]

As a Laker fan, I have mixed feelings about the deal. It appears the Lakers are making this deal with the intention of resigning Schröder. Is Schröder really the PG you want to settle on for much of the AD era? He was great off the bench in OKC...but he still came off the bench on a mediocre team. I also am not a huge fan of the Lakers approach, which has always been fully commit while the window is open....and to them they means a team full of veterans, no time to develop any young talent, and no use for draft assets. The result is often good for a few years, then you find yourself with this old team and no young talent which requires a full rebuild. San Antonio showed us for 2 decades that it does not have to be done that way, you can find talent later in the draft, and continuing to develop that talent will never leave the roster totally bare. If I was the Lakers, and I only have a pick every other year for a while....I am keeping those picks and trying to get a steal or two so when AD is 32, there is some young talent that can help him with the load and he is not forced to choose between leaving or spending his final years like Kobe did on a roster depleted of talent to compete.

A couple arguments for Schroder:

Schroder's not really a PG. As seen in OKC last season, he's a combo guard. He's a very good secondary playmaker who probably makes too many mistakes to be an elite PG, but he's more than serviceable in the combo guard role. With LeBron as the primary ball handler (similar to how Chris Paul ran OKC last season), Schroder can be a scorer and driver off the wing-- a role at which he excels. Too, he's improved massively as a defender. Vogel will likely be able to pull more out of him. In LA, once LeBron retires, he can still be that wing combo guard while also perhaps running the second unit. This is similar to how the Pistons used Joe Dumars and Philadelphia used Andrew Toney, fwiw. (And the Lakers' own Byron Scott and Norm Nixon in their Showtime heyday.)

[adkindo]

A couple arguments for Schroder:

Schroder's not really a PG. As seen in OKC last season, he's a combo guard. He's a very good secondary playmaker who probably makes too many mistakes to be an elite PG, but he's more than serviceable in the combo guard role. With LeBron as the primary ball handler (similar to how Chris Paul ran OKC last season), Schroder can be a scorer and driver off the wing-- a role at which he excels. Too, he's improved massively as a defender. Vogel will likely be able to pull more out of him. In LA, once LeBron retires, he can still be that wing combo guard while also perhaps running the second unit. This is similar to how the Pistons used Joe Dumars and Philadelphia used Andrew Toney, fwiw. (And the Lakers' own Byron Scott and Norm Nixon in their Showtime heyday.)

I get the fit, I really do....but dude is going to want to get paid next year and will have leverage with the Lakers likely being capped out and his Bird Rights being to only viable path to having a quality player in that position. If you are the Lakers, do you give Schröder a 3 year deal @ $20 Million per season next offseason....because I assume that is the minimum he will be asking for since he makes $15.5 Million now?

Also beyond Schröder, I am just not crazy about giving up draft picks when you have no real young talent on the roster. Rumors are their Top 2 FA targets are Ibaka and Wes Matthews which just continues down the road of the roster getting older....but I guess part of the strategy in moving the draft pick was they saved about $2 Million in the trade, and if they use their non-taxpayer midlevel in free agency, they will be hard capped....thus every dollar counts.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I get the fit, I really do....but dude is going to want to get paid next year and will have leverage with the Lakers likely being capped out and his Bird Rights being to only viable path to having a quality player in that position. If you are the Lakers, do you give Schröder a 3 year deal @ $20 Million per season next offseason....because I assume that is the minimum he will be asking for since he makes $15.5 Million now?

Also beyond Schröder, I am just not crazy about giving up draft picks when you have no real young talent on the roster. Rumors are their Top 2 FA targets are Ibaka and Wes Matthews which just continues down the road of the roster getting older....but I guess part of the strategy in moving the draft pick was they saved about $2 Million in the trade, and if they use their non-taxpayer midlevel in free agency, they will be hard capped....thus every dollar counts.

I wouldn't re-sign Schroder for $20M, but I don't think he'll get $20M either. But it really doesn't matter what he gets paid. Once LeBron hangs them up, LA should have enough cap space for two very, very good free agents. Schroder's contract won't break them, and free agent veterans always enjoy sunny LA. The Lakers will be fine.

[adkindo]

I assume there will be several 2nd Round picks that are sold for cash?

2nd round picks:

76'ers - 4
Kings - 3
Hornets - 2
Pelicans - 3
Warriors - 2

[Rojo Rijo]

I know this is abnormal but I love having all of this NBA action - Free Agency and the Draft - happening one month before the season starts. I know this is not ideal for the players, especially ones who have to change cities but man I can't help but love how this will flow into the season. I feel like the NBA offseason is typically more exciting than the first 2+ months of the NBA season anyways.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I assume there will be several 2nd Round picks that are sold for cash?

2nd round picks:

76'ers - 4
Kings - 3
Hornets - 2
Pelicans - 3
Warriors - 2

Man, I hope not. It's just stupid crazy to give up an asset for a few hundred thousand. Especially in a league that works in the billions.

Trade those picks. Grab some talent-- or, better yet, a second rounder in a future draft. If that's not available, pick a rando Italian or French guy. (Sneak a peek at San Antonio's dossier if you need to.) Three of these teams could swing a deal for some serious depth (and need it badly).

[UKFlounder]

nm

[UKFlounder]

nm

these stories were on previous page.

My bad

[Revering4Blue]

Per Woj:


Kings will also send Justin James to the Bucks in the deal, per sources.

A sneaky good cheap contributor for the Bucks?

This may seem like a small detail, but the onus is now even greater for the Kings to sap whatever potential D.J Wilson possesses.

[M2]

Covington has been used incorrectly every year everywhere he's been. Stotts and Lillard will get the most out of him. Hell have his best year ever in every category, except maybe Defensive Rating, of course.

Rumors flying that Portland was talking to Milsap.

Regarding Milsap...I haven't seen a player get so bad so fast since Joe Namath put on a Rams uniform. I really hope he doesn't don a Blazers' uniform.

Covington's a spot up shooter who plays defense. That's how he's been used everywhere. Sometimes he gets the bad idea in his head he should try to dribble and that rarely works out well for him. Millsap's fine if he's the 4th or 5th guy in your closing lineup. He's certainly a step up from Melo.

[BillDoran]

Sacramento must love Donte DiVincenzo to make the Bogdanovich deal. In abbreviated minutes, he's shown an ability to defend-- which they need desperately. He's also a solid rebounder. But he's not the shooter Bogdanovic is, nor is he the playmaker. Perhaps DiVincenzo has another breakout in him. Regardless, Sacramento better hope he does because they spent decent coin on him. DJ Wilson regressed from a pedestrian rookie season to unplayable and Ersan Ilyasova is 114 years old (though still capable in short spurts).

This should open up a spot for Hield in the starting lineup-- assuming he stays in California and isn't dealt for pennies on the dollar. He really wanted that.

I think this is Sacramento getting out of the way of a bad contract. They definitely lost talent in the swap, but clearly they weren't going to match whatever contract he's going to sign as a RFA. It beats letting him walk (or getting pressured into matching what's going to be an overpay).

I'm with you on DiVincenzo. I don't think he has a lot of talent. I think he's a rotation guy, but back of the rotation. That said, he got more run in the playoffs, which tells you a lot about a player (but also matchups). He can playmake. He plays defense. But unless that shot comes around, I'm not sure he'll ever amount to too much. Honestly, I think he gets a lot of pub because he's white.

[BillDoran]

Covington's a spot up shooter who plays defense. That's how he's been used everywhere. Sometimes he gets the bad idea in his head he should try to dribble and that rarely works out well for him. Millsap's fine if he's the 4th or 5th guy in your closing lineup. He's certainly a step up from Melo.

Yeah, I think that's part of Covington's appeal. He knows his role. Obviously, his defensive value is his calling card.

Between Lillard and McCollum getting there's, Nurk working in the high post and Hood never turnng down a shot, that team isn't going to let Covington even pretend he's going to get shots. Not only is he a step up from Melo, he's his polar opposite, which is why I like the Covington trade so much.

[M2]

Milwaukee isn't done!

Bogdan Bogdanovic for Donte DiVincenzo, Ersan Ilyasova and D.J. Wilson.

The Buck's starting five:


Jrue Holiday
Bogdan Bogdanovic
Khris Middleton
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Brook Lopez

If Bud can't win with that, he'll need to find a new line of work.

Holy crap that team is good. That's the Buck's "Kill Arthur Dent" team.

All I can figure from the Kings' side of it is they must really love Donte (which, as it turns it out, is the exact same reaction BZ had).

[Kingspoint]

Covington's a spot up shooter who plays defense. That's how he's been used everywhere. Sometimes he gets the bad idea in his head he should try to dribble and that rarely works out well for him. Millsap's fine if he's the 4th or 5th guy in your closing lineup. He's certainly a step up from Melo.

Disagree 100%

[Kingspoint]

Yeah, I think that's part of Covington's appeal. He knows his role. Obviously, his defensive value is his calling card.

Between Lillard and McCollum getting there's, Nurk working in the high post and Hood never turnng down a shot, that team isn't going to let Covington even pretend he's going to get shots. Not only is he a step up from Melo, he's his polar opposite, which is why I like the Covington trade so much.

M2 said Milsap was a step up from Melo, and I 100% disagree with that, in addition to what he thinks Covington is. Covington has been used improperly everywhere he's been. The NBA will see a different Covington under Portland's umbrella. He'll blossom just as all players do in Portland under Stotts.

[BillDoran]

M2 said Milsap was a step up from Melo, and I 100% disagree with that, in addition to what he thinks Covington is. Covington has been used improperly everywhere he's been. The NBA will see a different Covington under Portland's umbrella. He'll blossom just as all players do in Portland under Stotts.

He's going to be the defensive linchpin, and he's going to stand in the corner on offense. Not sure that's all that different than what he's done elsewhere (unlike Houston, he won't be asked to guard centers exclusively in Portland), but it's also exactly what the team needs.

[M2]

Yeah, I think that's part of Covington's appeal. He knows his role. Obviously, his defensive value is his calling card.

Between Lillard and McCollum getting there's, Nurk working in the high post and Hood never turnng down a shot, that team isn't going to let Covington even pretend he's going to get shots. Not only is he a step up from Melo, he's his polar opposite, which is why I like the Covington trade so much.

I was talking Millsap being better than Melo, though Covington is WAY better than Melo. You're right about how the two could not be more different players (and Portland really needs the Covington type a lot more than the Melo type). FWIW, I don't expect much from Hood. I would not plan for him to be a starter or significant contributor. He strikes me as a heat check guy off the bench. I'd have him behind Trent (and Gabriel if he comes back) in the rotation, and I'd ideally want another forward who pushed Trent to the second unit.

[BillDoran]

M2 said Milsap was a step up from Melo..


I was talking Millsap being better than Melo..

My distaste for Melo has clouded my reading comprehension.

[M2]

M2 said Milsap was a step up from Melo, and I 100% disagree with that, in addition to what he thinks Covington is. Covington has been used improperly everywhere he's been. The NBA will see a different Covington under Portland's umbrella. He'll blossom just as all players do in Portland under Stotts.

What is it you think Covington does well other than defend and sink open jumpers? He's solid in that role. Nice get for Portland. Gives them a shooter to make other teams pay for sending help defense onto others.

Last year Millsap had a 116 O rating and 110 D rating. Melo was 104-115. Feel free to pick PER, +/-, WS, BPM or VORP, Millsap was better in every category. Per 36: Millsap - 17.2/8.5/2.4, Melo 16.9/7.0/1.6. EFG%: Millsap - .543, Melo - .485. It's not particularly close between them. Also, I can guarantee you will be singing the praises of Paul Millsap if he goes to the Blazers and insisting he'll play a key role in their upcoming undefeated season, and I know that because you did exactly that with Carmelo Anthony, who's pretty bad.

[texasdave]

Just an FYI, Nurkic was the 16th pick in the 2014 draft. Terry Rozier was a #16 pick in 2015.

[texasdave]

Covington shot like crap for the Rockets. 31.5% from the three-point line. He sank shots at a 39.2% clip for Houston. His career eGFG% is 51.8. That's below league average. He's with his 4th team since the start of the 2018 season. That's telling to me. He is absolutely nothing special. Not even close.

[BillDoran]

Just an FYI, Nurkic was the 16th pick in the 2014 draft. Terry Rozier was a #16 pick in 2015.

Yeah, but so was Luke Babbitt in 2010, Royce White in 2012, Lucas Nogueira in 2013 (between Giannis and Dennis Schroeder), Guerschon Yabusele in 2016, Justin Patton in 2017 and Zhaire Smith in 2018

On your side of the ledger: Nikola Vucevic went 16 in 2011.

It's a pretty big roll of the dice. There's definitely talent at 16. Given the crappy draft, it probably has a little less value than usual.

[M2]

Yeah, but so was Luke Babbitt in 2010, Royce White in 2012, Lucas Nogueira in 2013 (between Giannis and Dennis Schroeder), Guerschon Yabusele in 2016, Justin Patton in 2017 and Zhaire Smith in 2018

On your side of the ledger: Nikola Vucevic went 16 in 2011.

It's a pretty big roll of the dice. There's definitely talent at 16. Given the crappy draft, it probably has a little less value than usual.

Some have argued the middle of the 1st round is better in this draft than the top of it. The idea being that you're paying a lot less for the same basic chance to land meaningful talent.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Given the crappy draft, it probably has a little less value than usual.

I'd argue that it's not a crappy draft, but is super talent poor at the top end.

The depth of this draft is actually really intriguing. Especially among the shooters/ wings.

(M2 beat me to it.)

[BillDoran]

Covington shot like crap for the Rockets. 31.5% from the three-point line. He sank shots at a 39.2% clip for Houston. His career eGFG% is 51.8. That's below league average. He's with his 4th team since the start of the 2018 season. That's telling to me. He is absolutely nothing special. Not even close.

The Blazers need him to take approximately three shots a game. He's in Portland to defend big dudes and erase the many mistakes and limitations of its backcourt.

We've probably gotten out over our skis on Covington--those shooting percentages are sobering--but he is an excellent fit for the Blazers. They probably overpaid a bit, but when your window's closing (it's not a championship window), you push some chips in. I don't particularly like Olshey, but he done good here.

[BillDoran]

Rodney Hood did not exercise his player option, making him a free agent. That's $6 million more for the Blazers to spend.

Olshey has a lot of work to do. They've got four very good starters: Lillard, McCollum, Nurkic and Covington; and two legit rotation guys: Collins and Trent.

After that it's dreck and question marks. For whatever godly reason, Stotts needs a big creator, and Hezonja's going to get 10-20 minutes a night. I hope they don't rely on Anfernee Simons again. Maybe Justin James is something. Maybe Nas Little develops.

That's it for guys under contract. Back to work, Neil.

[Kingspoint]

Covington shot like crap for the Rockets. 31.5% from the three-point line. He sank shots at a 39.2% clip for Houston. His career eGFG% is 51.8. That's below league average. He's with his 4th team since the start of the 2018 season. That's telling to me. He is absolutely nothing special. Not even close.

He'll shoot 38%+ from 3 for POR, and his 2-pt attempts as a percentage of his shots will increse with POR, in addition to his eFG%.

HOU didn't knkw how to use him. Enjoy your rebuild.

[Bourgeois Zee]

He'll shoot 38%+ from 3 for POR, and his 2-pt attempts as a percentage of his shots will increse with POR, in addition to his eFG%.


And Portland will win all their games.

Unless the refs cheat them.

[Kingspoint]

Rodney Hood did not exercise his player option, making him a free agent. That's $6 million more for the Blazers to spend.

Olshey has a lot of work to do. They've got four very good starters: Lillard, McCollum, Nurkic and Covington; and two legit rotation guys: Collins and Trent.

After that it's dreck and question marks. For whatever godly reason, Stotts needs a big creator, and Hezonja's going to get 10-20 minutes a night. I hope they don't rely on Anfernee Simons again. Maybe Justin James is something. Maybe Nas Little develops.

That's it for guys under contract. Back to work, Neil.

He probably didn't exercise his player option so he could resign a 3-year deal for more per year. He signed for less than his market value originally and there was always talk that it would be made up later.

- - - Updated - - -


And Portland will win all their games.

Unless the refs cheat them.

Normally, yes.

[Kingspoint]

Rodney Hood did not exercise his player option, making him a free agent. That's $6 million more for the Blazers to spend.

Olshey has a lot of work to do. They've got four very good starters: Lillard, McCollum, Nurkic and Covington; and two legit rotation guys: Collins and Trent.

After that it's dreck and question marks. For whatever godly reason, Stotts needs a big creator, and Hezonja's going to get 10-20 minutes a night. I hope they don't rely on Anfernee Simons again. Maybe Justin James is something. Maybe Nas Little develops.

That's it for guys under contract. Back to work, Neil.

Pretty sour on the Blazers in what is the greatest off-season day, non-draft, in Olshey's history.

[BillDoran]

Pretty sour on the Blazers in what is the greatest off-season day, non-draft, in Olshey's history.

Though we both may be Blazers fans, I can't say I often agree with your NBA perspective, however confident it may be.

Also, really blowing the Covington acquisition out of proportion. He's a secondary piece, a really nice one, but complementary to be sure. He's trading for Gerald Wallace again.

Trading for Nurk was twice as important.

[Kingspoint]

Some of the best moves Olshey has made are the ones he's been turned down on. ORL turned down the same offer for Gordon. I'm glad. Olshey's Plan B of Covington is better.

[BillDoran]

Some of the best moves Olshey has made are the ones he's been turned down on. ORL turned down the same offer for Gordon. I'm glad. Olshey's Plan B of Covington is better.

So, we're giving points for non-moves (despite the reporting suggesting the Magic turned the trade down)?

But you are 100 percent correct on Olshey's best moves being non-moves. Remember when he tried his damnedest to give $100+ million to an injured Chandler Parsons? Then when Parsons walked away from the cash, he got flustered and locked up a mediocre Evan Turner for $70+ million, then dumped the rest of their cap space on Meyers Leonard and Mo Harkless (who was good, actually). Remember when he signed Allen Crabbe to a $75 million deal?

Neil Olshey, grade-A front office man.

Sorry for the Blazers hi-jacking, all. I'm done.