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Around the League => The Draft => Topic started by: mef730 on February 20, 2018, 10:23:47 AM

Title: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: mef730 on February 20, 2018, 10:23:47 AM
http://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/22506994/2018-nba-mock-draft-trae-young-luka-doncic-top-prospects

Who's No. 1 now?

The trade deadline created a lot of movement in the 2018 NBA draft.

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Let's look at where the top prospects -- including Trae Young, Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, Mohamed Bamba and Marvin Bagley III -- might land.


Our mock draft differs in two crucial ways from our recently updated top-100 prospect rankings. It uses ESPN's BPI to project the draft order, and it's adjusted for NBA team needs accordingly. It also attempts to project which players will ultimately end up declaring and keeping their names in the draft.

1. Phoenix Suns

Luka Doncic
Real Madrid
Age: 18.9
PG



The Suns' backcourt is a work in progress after Phoenix traded Eric Bledsoe and brought in Elfrid Payton for what may end up being a rental.

Doncic's size, skill level and versatility allow him to play anywhere from 1 to 4, but there's little doubt that he's at his best with the ball in his hands. He would fit very well with playmaking wings Devin Booker and Josh Jackson.

He's having a phenomenal season in Europe, posting historic numbers in the Euroleague and Spanish ACB for an 18-year-old.

Deandre Ayton also will get a long look here.

Starting salary: $8,095,680

2. Atlanta Hawks

Deandre Ayton
Arizona
Freshman
C



The Hawks are not in a position to draft based on need at this stage of their rebuilding effort, and there are question marks about how well promising big man John Collins fits in alongside another center who doesn't protect the rim at an elite rate.

Nevertheless, Ayton has elevated himself into the conversation as a top-two pick with his incredible natural physical tools and high skill level. His rebounding and scoring prowess could be very attractive here, even if Mohamed Bamba might actually be a better fit stylistically.

Starting salary: $7,243,440

3. Sacramento Kings

Mohamed Bamba
Texas
Freshman
C



None of the Kings' big men have emerged as franchise cornerstones at this stage, meaning it would be foolish to pass on a top-tier talent due to positional concerns.

Bamba will likely get some looks in the top two as well, given his rare combination of length, shot-blocking instincts and offensive promise. He is starting to make 3-pointers more consistently (10-for-28 in his past 15 games), and his unicorn potential gives him arguably the highest upside of any player in this draft.

Starting salary: $6,504,600

4. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Nets)

Jaren Jackson
Michigan State
Freshman
C



At 6-foot-11 and 242 pounds, with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, it's very likely that Jackson will see significant minutes at center in the NBA as his promising frame fills out, rather than at the 4, as he mostly does in college at the moment. Jackson's ability to space the floor (44 percent from 3; 79 percent from the line), block shots (5.9 per 40 minutes), switch on every screen and, increasingly, put the ball on the floor from the perimeter make him an ideal fit for the modern NBA.

He has significant upside to grow into as well, as he's the youngest player currently projected to be drafted. Jackson is the exact type of player the Cavs sorely need on their roster right now, but he'd be a terrific building block to have regardless of what LeBron James decides to do.

Starting salary: $5,864,640

Cleveland will receive Brooklyn's first-round pick unprotected.

5. Orlando Magic

Marvin Bagley III
Duke
Freshman
C



Although there are some positional concerns regarding Bagley and his fit in the modern NBA, at some point his talent level and sheer production are likely too great to pass on.

The Magic could very well be in the market for a point guard, but there are still question marks about whether Trae Young and Collin Sexton are worthy of being picked this high. Bagley is likely best suited for the center spot, and his scoring instincts, rebounding prowess and athleticism would make for an interesting fit alongside building blocks Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac.

Starting salary: $5,310,720

6. Chicago Bulls

Michael Porter Jr.
Missouri
Freshman
PF



The Bulls have a gaping hole at the small forward position, and could use all the firepower they can find from the perimeter. Porter's ability to play alongside Lauri Markkanen should make him very attractive at this spot.

Porter came into the season with the hope of making a run at being the No. 1 pick in the draft, but unfortunately he hasn't been able to build his case because of a back injury. The results of his medical examination will play a significant role in where he is ultimately drafted, but NBA teams don't appear to be especially concerned right now about the nature of the injury and his long-term prognosis.

Starting salary: $4,823,520

7. Memphis Grizzlies

Trae Young
Oklahoma
Freshman
PG



Mike Conley is a Memphis cornerstone signed to one of the NBA's most lucrative contracts, but he is already 30 and has struggled to stay healthy in recent seasons. With the Grizzlies' playoff run ending, they will have to think about entering a rebuilding stage -- including drafting for talent rather than need.

Young has been mired in a prolonged shooting slump since exploding onto the national radar, but still is a very intriguing fit in today's NBA with his tremendous passing and scoring ability.

Starting salary: $4,403,280

8. Dallas Mavericks

Wendell Carter Jr.
Duke
Freshman
C



Carter's season got off to a slow start, but he has been Duke's best player in 2018 and has recaptured his status as a potential top-10 pick, which is where he started the season.

The Mavs could certainly use help in the frontcourt, and Carter's basketball IQ and versatility are promising in a number of ways.

Starting salary: $4,033,800

9. New York Knicks

Collin Sexton
Alabama
Freshman
PG



Frank Ntilikina has had some nice rookie moments, but the Knicks are finding out that the long-armed, 6-foot-5 guard seems better suited playing alongside a more dominant ball handler and shot creator who can take some of the scoring responsibilities off his shoulders.

Enter Sexton, with his tremendous aggressiveness driving the lane, taking off-the-dribble jumpers and putting defensive pressure on opposing guards. NBA teams have some concerns about Sexton's ability to stay healthy because of his reckless style of play. He has been dinged up much of the season, which hasn't helped matters.

Starting salary: $3,708,120

10. Philadelphia 76ers (via Lakers)

Mikal Bridges
Villanova
Junior
SF



The Sixers are in line to draft in the top 10 due to the shrewd Michael Carter-Williams trade made by Sam Hinkie three years ago (as long as the pick is not second, third, fourth or fifth, in which case it goes to Boston).

Shooting, defensive versatility and basketball IQ are what the 76ers need to continue to add, and Bridges brings all of them along with the ability to guard 1 to 4. He isn't as gifted a shot-creator as you'd like from a top-10 pick, but if he's playing alongside the likes of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, he won't need to be.

Starting salary: $3,522,480

Philadelphia will receive L.A.'s pick if it lands at No. 1 or Nos. 6-30. Otherwise, the pick goes to Boston. BPI projects a 92.5 percent chance the Sixers get this pick.

11. Charlotte Hornets

Miles Bridges
Michigan State
Sophomore
SF/PF



Charlotte continues to search for long-term solutions at both forward positions, and will likely look to add athleticism to what has become a fairly disappointing roster.

Bridges is a freakish athlete who has struggled at times to make the full-time transition to small forward, but he undoubtedly has potential as a two-way forward who can guard all over the floor and give you enough shooting, ballhandling and passing to get by at one of the most important positions in today's NBA.

Starting salary: $3,346,560

12. LA Clippers (via Pistons)

Kevin Knox
Kentucky
Freshman
PF



The Clippers will likely be looking to add athleticism, shooting and length at the forward positions, where they don't have much depth outside of Tobias Harris.

Knox hasn't had a very efficient freshman season, partially due to his playing out of position, but there's a significant market in the NBA for combo forwards in his mold who can make an open shot, defend multiple positions and offer some offensive versatility. He's one of the youngest players in this draft, so he still has plenty of room to grow.

Starting salary: $3,179,280

The Clippers will receive Detroit's pick if it falls outside the top four.

13. LA Clippers

Robert Williams
Texas A&M
Sophomore
C



Williams has had a somewhat disappointing sophomore season while playing out of position as a power forward in traditional dual-post player lineups. His game is tailor-made for the NBA, though -- he has potential as a rim-running, pick-and-roll-finishing, shot-blocker/offensive rebounder in the Clint Capela mold.

With DeAndre Jordan in the final year of his contract, the Clippers could certainly look to Williams as a potential successor.

Starting salary: $3,020,280

14. Chicago Bulls (via Pelicans)

Lonnie Walker IV
Miami
Freshman
SG/SF



Chicago's wing rotation is still a work in progress, and could certainly use some more shooting, length and perimeter defensive prowess.

Walker started off the season poorly, but has been much better in ACC play, reestablishing himself as a potential lottery-caliber prospect. The lack of depth at the wing position certainly helps him as well.

His youth, strong frame, 6-foot-10½ wingspan and ability to shoot with his feet set or off the dribble make him a candidate to rise even further during the pre-draft process as teams search for upside and diamonds in the rough.

Starting salary: $2,869,320

The Bulls will receive New Orleans' pick if it falls outside the top five.

15. Phoenix Suns (via Heat)


Daniel Gafford
Arkansas
Freshman
C



Gafford's tremendous physical tools and significant upside will likely mean his name is called somewhere in the top 20 on draft night, if he has a strong pre-draft process.

Unfortunately the glut of big men in this class (plus the lack of wings around the league) makes it difficult for him to crack the lottery in this team-needs-based mock draft. The Suns are one team that could potentially look for depth at the center spot, adding much needed rim protection and finishing ability as Alex Len enters free agency.

Starting salary: $2,725,680

Phoenix will receive Miami's pick if it is outside the top seven.

16. Portland Trail Blazers

Dzanan Musa
Cedevita
Age: 18.5
SF



Shooting and depth at the wing/combo forward spots will likely be priorities for the Blazers this offseason (not unlike most teams in the NBA).

Musa's size, scoring instincts and aggressiveness could be intriguing for Portland at this stage of the draft. He's one of the youngest players in this draft class, but he is already very productive in Europe, playing at a fairly high level.

Starting salary: $2,589,480

17. Indiana Pacers


Troy Brown
Oregon
Freshman
SF



Indiana's wing rotation could certainly use more depth, and Brown's versatility as a big ball handler, defender and rebounder is intriguing in a league that is starved for players at his position.

Brown's inconsistency as a perimeter shooter has made it difficult for him to fully break out, but being the third-youngest player in this draft class means he still has time to address that.

Starting salary: $2,460,000

18. Denver Nuggets


Chandler Hutchison
Boise State
Senior
SF



The Nuggets have been cycling through options at small forward all season and could very well look to address that position in the draft and/or free agency this summer.

Hutchison has made significant strides with his game as a senior. He looks primed to take advantage of the lack of wings in the draft -- and the NBA in general -- this June. He has outstanding physical tools and is a much-improved ball handler and perimeter shooter.

Starting salary: $2,337,000

19. Utah Jazz


Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Kentucky
Freshman
PG/SG



The Jazz might look for a versatile guard who can operate in different lineups without dominating the ball alongside Donovan Mitchell.

Gilgeous-Alexander has the size, length, multipositional defensive versatility and unselfishness needed to operate as a role player alongside a variety of different types of guards and wings.

Starting salary: $2,231,760

20. Milwaukee Bucks


Anfernee Simons
IMG Academy (HS)
Age: 18.4
SG



In recent years the Bucks have not been afraid to roll the dice on an unproven prospect with significant long-term upside. Simons is one of the least NBA-ready players in the draft, but he's intriguing due to his combination of youth, explosiveness and shot-making prowess.

He's a few years away from panning out, but at this stage of the draft, there isn't much risk, and adding a prospect with his upside would be intriguing. Eventually he could be a nice backcourt mate with Malcolm Brogdon while providing floor spacing for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Starting salary: $2,142,360

Phoenix will receive Milwaukee's pick if it lands in Nos. 11-16.

21. Washington Wizards


Khyri Thomas
Creighton
Junior
SG/SF



Thomas is one of the better defenders in college basketball, capable of guarding three positions with his 6-foot-11 wingspan. He's also a willing ball-mover and a promising spot-up shooter and has exactly the type of grit and unselfishness the NBA covets in role players.

The Wizards, like most other teams, could use wing depth and might look to bolster their rotation with a player in Thomas' mold.

Starting salary: $2,056,680

22. Philadelphia 76ers


Aaron Holiday
UCLA
Junior
PG



Shooting, creativity and perimeter defense are all qualities the 76ers will likely look to continue to add to their backcourt rotation as they attempt to construct the right lineups to surround their building blocks of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.

Holiday has broken through in a major way in his senior season, and would bring a number of very attractive traits with his microwave scoring ability, long wingspan and toughness.

Starting salary: $1,974,480

23. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Thunder)

Bruce Brown
Miami
Sophomore
SG



Minnesota's guard and wing rotation will need to be shored up over the summer. Brown was in the midst of a disappointing sophomore season before breaking his foot and potentially ending his college career, but he has promise as an NBA prospect.

He's a willing passer, a lockdown defender and a gritty rebounder, and he has shown potential with his jump shot. There's a significant market for players in his mold, provided that he gets healthy and is able, in the pre-draft process, to recapture some of the momentum he lost.

Execs and coaches like Tom Thibodeau might fall in love with his toughness.

Starting salary: $1,895,520

Minnesota will receive Oklahoma City's pick if it is outside the lottery.

24. San Antonio Spurs


Melvin Frazier
Tulane
Junior
SF



A significant part of San Antonio's wing rotation is up for free agency this summer, meaning this could very well be a position the Spurs look to address in the draft.

Frazier's stock has been moving in the right direction during a very impressive junior season at Tulane. He's a tremendous athlete, standing 6-foot-6 with a nearly 7-foot wingspan, and he's making 39 percent of his 3-pointers this season.

Starting salary: $1,819,800

25. Atlanta Hawks (via Wolves)


Keita Bates-Diop
Ohio State
Junior
PF



With the second of their three first-round picks, the Hawks might look to add some depth at forward.

Bates-Diop has increased his stock dramatically with a breakout season. He has been moving among all of the frontcourt positions for surging Ohio State and looks like an ideal fit for the modern NBA if he can find a way to rev his motor into higher gear at the professional level.

Starting salary: $1,746,840

Atlanta will receive Minnesota's pick if it is outside the lottery.

26. Los Angeles Lakers (via Cavs)


Mitchell Robinson
College: None
Freshman
C



The Lakers are sorely lacking athleticism and rim protection in their frontcourt, and might be willing to roll the dice on a project here.

Physically, Robinson is one of the most gifted prospects -- with impressive length, athleticism and shot-blocking instincts -- but he is a long way from contributing. The fact that he elected not to play college basketball this season won't help his NBA readiness, but at some point in the draft, he's worth taking a gamble on.

Starting salary: $1,689,000

The Lakers will receive Cleveland's pick if it is outside the top three.

27. Boston Celtics


De'Anthony Melton
USC
Sophomore
PG/SG



The Celtics have a tough decision in front of them with Marcus Smart entering free agency, and may need to find a cheaper backcourt option to avoid luxury tax issues.

Melton looked to be on the verge of a breakout season for USC before the FBI investigation shut him down indefinitely. His defensive versatility, toughness and intangibles make him a prospect worth investing in.

Starting salary: $1,640,400

28. Brooklyn Nets (via Raptors)


Shake Milton
SMU
Junior
PG/SG



The Nets have plenty of work to do in building out their backcourt and wing rotations, and could look to draft a role player here who can do a little bit of everything.

A player such as Milton, who has the size and length to defend all three backcourt spots, can operate on or off the ball and is a consistent outside shooter, would make sense here.

Starting salary: $1,630,320

Brooklyn will receive Toronto's pick if it is outside the lottery.

29. Atlanta Hawks (via Rockets)


Landry Shamet
Wichita State
Sophomore
PG/SG



With their third and final first-round pick, the Hawks may look to add some backcourt depth.

Shamet is shooting 45 percent from 3-point range on the season, combining a potent pull-up jumper with the ability to come off screens, and he's arguably the most consistent spot-up shooter in the college game. Shamet sees most of his minutes at point guard despite standing 6-foot-4, thanks to his terrific feel for the game and all-around creativity, but there are some question marks about his ability to create his own shot at the NBA level.

His size will allow him to play alongside a point guard, such as Dennis Schroder, while also handling backup playmaking responsibilities.

Starting salary: $1,618,320

Atlanta will receive Houston's pick if it is outside the top three.


30. Golden State Warriors

Chimezie Metu
USC
Junior
PF/C



Golden State could lose several bigs this offseason and look to the draft for cheaper contributors.

Metu's impressive frame, athleticism, skill level and feel for the game are attractive at this stage of the draft. He has shown flashes offensively both facing and with his back to the basket -- though he doesn't always play hard enough, considering his projected role.

Still, there is some upside left to be tapped into, and Metu could look much better alongside NBA players.

Starting salary: $1,606,680
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Moranis on February 20, 2018, 10:39:48 AM
I don't think Jaren Jackson goes 4th.  That seems like a huge reach.  I'm not really sure I buy Doncic at 1 either, but at least that is somewhat understandable, especially for the Suns as that is a position of need.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on February 20, 2018, 10:43:16 AM
I don't think Jaren Jackson goes 4th.  That seems like a huge reach.  I'm not really sure I buy Doncic at 1 either, but at least that is somewhat understandable, especially for the Suns as that is a position of need.

TP mef.   Came across this Ringer article on Jackson recently -- directly relates to his fit for the Cs.  https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/2/6/16976438/jaren-jackson-jr-best-big-man-draft (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/2/6/169764380/jaren-jackson-jr-best-big-man-draft)

Doubt he'd go before Bagley, but seems like a great fit.  Haven't seen him play, but his profile reminds me of Isaac from last draft.  Apparently he's a defensive beast.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: tazzmaniac on February 20, 2018, 11:02:31 AM
Nets pick projected at #4.  The Cavs should be really happy if that occurs.  Probably more likely to end up #7 or #8 with all the tanking teams.  If they do get #4, it will be interesting to see who they pick.  Jaren Jackson seems like a we think Lebron is staying pick.  If he's leaving a more upside pick like Bagley or Porter would seem more likely. 
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: CFAN38 on February 20, 2018, 11:19:07 AM
I agree with the top 8.

As for the Cs pick Melton fits the same profile as Terry Rozier and I could see DA liking him.  I would rather see the Cs take Jontay Porter or Brandon McCoy.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: DefenseWinsChamps on February 20, 2018, 11:24:09 AM
Read this earlier on today. My initial thoughts:

We need to cool it with Jaren Jackson. He looks really talented, but you can't ignore his inconsistency. Against, NW, he had 11 points, 1 TO, and no other stats. No rebounds. No blocks. No steals. No assists. That's concerning.

I don't know what is happening with Bagley's stock, but he keeps dropping. I really like him, especially considering he is a full 16 months younger than Ayton, 14 months younger than Bamba, and 6 months younger than Jackson. The blocks aren't there, but the scoring, passing, and defensive versatility are. Also, all of his numbers have risen in ACC play, including his defensive numbers. If Jackson and Bamba get drafted before him, it will be travesty of scouting.

Trae Young is still monstrously overrated. Since the 1st of the year, he is averaging 39/33/86 shooting splits and 8/6 assists to turnovers.

There are a lot of legit big men in this draft: Ayton, Bagley, Bamba, Carter, Jackson are at the top, but Williams, Gafford, Robinson, and Metu could all be rotation players too. Are big men coming back?

There are a lot of solid potential 3/d rotation players: Bridges, Walker, Brown, Hutchinson, Thomas, Brown, Frazier, Melton, and Milton. Just looking ahead, at what point does the NBA become so flush with 3/D talent that that role's value deteriorates?

I like Shamet a lot. I think he has the potential to be a solid rotation player in the NBA.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: tazzmaniac on February 20, 2018, 12:06:48 PM
Read this earlier on today. My initial thoughts:

We need to cool it with Jaren Jackson. He looks really talented, but you can't ignore his inconsistency. Against, NW, he had 11 points, 1 TO, and no other stats. No rebounds. No blocks. No steals. No assists. That's concerning.

I don't know what is happening with Bagley's stock, but he keeps dropping. I really like him, especially considering he is a full 16 months younger than Ayton, 14 months younger than Bamba, and 6 months younger than Jackson. The blocks aren't there, but the scoring, passing, and defensive versatility are. Also, all of his numbers have risen in ACC play, including his defensive numbers. If Jackson and Bamba get drafted before him, it will be travesty of scouting.

Trae Young is still monstrously overrated. Since the 1st of the year, he is averaging 39/33/86 shooting splits and 8/6 assists to turnovers.

There are a lot of legit big men in this draft: Ayton, Bagley, Bamba, Carter, Jackson are at the top, but Williams, Gafford, Robinson, and Metu could all be rotation players too. Are big men coming back?

There are a lot of solid potential 3/d rotation players: Bridges, Walker, Brown, Hutchinson, Thomas, Brown, Frazier, Melton, and Milton. Just looking ahead, at what point does the NBA become so flush with 3/D talent that that role's value deteriorates?

I like Shamet a lot. I think he has the potential to be a solid rotation player in the NBA.
Bagley's birthday is March 14, 1999.  Jackson birthday is September 15th, 1999.  So Jackson is actually 6 months younger than Bagley.   Bagley is less than a year younger than Bamba and Ayton.   Bamba is the oldest not Ayton. 
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: cltc5 on February 20, 2018, 12:50:00 PM
I hate to say it but this deal is getting worse all the time.  I love kyrie but if we keep it does Hayward get hurt?  Do we get the nets pick, do we have a deeper bench?  Someone convince me we still amdenthe right move :-[
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: CFAN38 on February 20, 2018, 12:55:37 PM
Read this earlier on today. My initial thoughts:

We need to cool it with Jaren Jackson. He looks really talented, but you can't ignore his inconsistency. Against, NW, he had 11 points, 1 TO, and no other stats. No rebounds. No blocks. No steals. No assists. That's concerning.

I don't know what is happening with Bagley's stock, but he keeps dropping. I really like him, especially considering he is a full 16 months younger than Ayton, 14 months younger than Bamba, and 6 months younger than Jackson. The blocks aren't there, but the scoring, passing, and defensive versatility are. Also, all of his numbers have risen in ACC play, including his defensive numbers. If Jackson and Bamba get drafted before him, it will be travesty of scouting.

Trae Young is still monstrously overrated. Since the 1st of the year, he is averaging 39/33/86 shooting splits and 8/6 assists to turnovers.

There are a lot of legit big men in this draft: Ayton, Bagley, Bamba, Carter, Jackson are at the top, but Williams, Gafford, Robinson, and Metu could all be rotation players too. Are big men coming back?

There are a lot of solid potential 3/d rotation players: Bridges, Walker, Brown, Hutchinson, Thomas, Brown, Frazier, Melton, and Milton. Just looking ahead, at what point does the NBA become so flush with 3/D talent that that role's value deteriorates?

I like Shamet a lot. I think he has the potential to be a solid rotation player in the NBA.

To answer a couple of your thoughts,

Jackson and Bagley are in a way connected. The reasons that Jackson is rising are the same reasons that Bagley is falling. This also ties into your question "are big men coming back"?

With the dominance of small ball in NBA teams no longer look to consistently play 2 bigs. The ideal modern big man has  changed to a player capable of hitting open shots at 3 or near 3 range, protect the rim, and most importantly defend in space. When it comes to defending in space they must be able to contain smaller player in a pure switch and also be able to quickly show on a screen then double back to protect the rim. We are starting to this change in bigs coming out of college and highschool.

Jackson for all his inconsistency hits on every key modern NBA big man trait. He has good size at 6'11 240 pounds and great length with a 7'4" wingspan. He can space the floor 44% from 3 on 2.8 attempts and 79% FT on 4.1 attempts. Jackson also has proven to be a very capable switch defender and an elite shock blocker 5.8blks per 40.

Bagley is the more productive college player post 5ppg and 3rpb per 40min then Jackson. He also has good size at 6'11 235 lbs however he is only listed as having a 7'1 wingspan. This wouldn't seem like a huge difference but Bagley has not proven to be a real rim protector and only averages 1.3blks per 40. He has shown the ability to be a very good switch defender for a near 7' big man. His shot is another area of concern for many draft experts. He is currently shooting 35% from 3 on 2 attempts but only 62% from FT on 6.8 attempts. I have also read there is some concern over his total reliance on his left had when finishing.

Bottom line is the overall value of big men is down in the NBA every team needs bigs but they need to be super versatile to thrive in the league. Jackson hits on every skill needed for a modern big and Bagley hits on some of those skills. Where Jackson will be an easy player to fit on a team. Bagley will likely require the right mix of players to be successful.

I would give an example of Serbe Ibaka and Julius Randle. Both are good NBA players who put up similar stats but most teams would prefer to have Ibaka. On the right team Randle could very well be a 20pt 10rb a game player but Ibaka's court spacing and shot blocking is more conducive to winning basketball.         
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: nickagneta on February 20, 2018, 12:56:45 PM
If this draft goes as predicted I would rather have Shake Milton
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: GreenShooter on February 20, 2018, 02:03:36 PM
If Michael Porter comes out and goes No.6 (or later) I will eat my latest pair of sneakers...which I've had for a long time now since I've "retired" from basketball.
I don't know why BSPN would write "nba teams are really concerned with his long term prognosis" when Porter said last week he thinks he's ready to come back and play right now but has yet to be cleared by doctors.
Yes, I know back injuries are tricky, but he's 19 years old so unless it was serious (highly unlikely) he will go top 3 (4th at worst). No way in hell he goes after Bamba. That would be like all those players being picked ahead of Dirk and PP34 in '98.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: CFAN38 on February 20, 2018, 02:15:15 PM
If Michael Porter comes out and goes No.6 (or later) I will eat my latest pair of sneakers...which I've had for a long time now since I've "retired" from basketball.
I don't know why BSPN would write "nba teams are really concerned with his long term prognosis" when Porter said last week he thinks he's ready to come back and play right now but has yet to be cleared by doctors.
Yes, I know back injuries are tricky, but he's 19 years old so unless it was serious (highly unlikely) he will go top 3 (4th at worst). No way in hell he goes after Bamba. That would be like all those players being picked ahead of Dirk and PP34 in '98.

Don't forget how Sullinger slid in the draft because of his Back.

If your an NBA GM and you view this draft as elite to great for the first 7 picks. With the prospects broken out into 2 or 3 tiers are you going to pass on a player who is projected as a high level starter for a kid with a higher ceiling who also just had back surgery? A lot will come down to physicals but it will take guts for a team in the tank to pass on Doncic, Ayton, Bamba, Jackson, Bagely or Young.

With that being said if Porter plays this year and looks good and passes all predraft physicals then all bets are off. Until then I think he goes 6 or 7.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: nickagneta on February 20, 2018, 02:24:59 PM
If Michael Porter comes out and goes No.6 (or later) I will eat my latest pair of sneakers...which I've had for a long time now since I've "retired" from basketball.
I don't know why BSPN would write "nba teams are really concerned with his long term prognosis" when Porter said last week he thinks he's ready to come back and play right now but has yet to be cleared by doctors.
Yes, I know back injuries are tricky, but he's 19 years old so unless it was serious (highly unlikely) he will go top 3 (4th at worst). No way in hell he goes after Bamba. That would be like all those players being picked ahead of Dirk and PP34 in '98.
Depends on the severity of the back injury. I am sure the medical staffs of teams are going to want to see in depth MRI's of his back pre surgery and current.

Porter is quite the wild card. He would be best served coming out this year and getting that guaranteed money than staying in school, rehurting his back and maybe never seeing any money.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Boris Badenov on February 20, 2018, 02:54:38 PM
Slightly off-topic: now that we are well into the season, has anyone heard recent opinions from experts about how this draft stacks up, compare to last year or next year?

Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: footey on February 20, 2018, 03:06:33 PM
Has us one pick from Robinson, who I like, and hope we can leap frog Lakers to grab.  Good investment for the long term as a very aggressive shot blocking big. Saw him outplay Bamba and Ayton in McD's a year plus ago.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: number_n9ne on February 20, 2018, 03:23:30 PM
I always want to trade up, which never happens, but I think Robert Williams in the teens would be such a steal. I would trade the 2018 and 2019 BOS first round pics to move up for him. Targeting the Clippers (who's pick we own in 2019 protected 1-14) would be a good strategy. We could even trade them back their own pick.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: tazzmaniac on February 20, 2018, 03:41:46 PM
I always want to trade up, which never happens, but I think Robert Williams in the teens would be such a steal. I would trade the 2018 and 2019 BOS first round pics to move up for him. Targeting the Clippers (who's pick we own in 2019 protected 1-14) would be a good strategy. We could even trade them back their own pick.
I'd love to get Robert Williams.  Fox and Williams were my favorites in last years draft until Williams pulled out. Unfortunately our two picks aren't going to get him.  I think he'll go top 10.  Williams is really being underutilized and poorly utilized at Texas A&M. 

Here's a good highlight clip from a recent game against Arkansas.   
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQn1mQ2fP0 
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: CFAN38 on February 20, 2018, 03:55:26 PM
Slightly off-topic: now that we are well into the season, has anyone heard recent opinions from experts about how this draft stacks up, compare to last year or next year?

This draft has some really good early talent but seems to drop off quickly. Compared to last year its debatable who has the better top tier talent but 2017 was certainly deeper.


Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Tier 2 (All-Star potential)

De'Aaron Fox, PG, Fr., Kentucky

Jonathan Isaac, F, Fr., Florida State

Josh Jackson, G/F, Fr., Kansas

Lauri Markkanen, PF, Fr., Arizona

Malik Monk, G, Fr., Kentucky

Frank Ntilikina, PG, France

Dennis Smith, PG, Fr., North Carolina State

Jayson Tatum, F, Fr., Duke

Tier 3 (NBA starters)

OG Anunoby, F, So., Indiana

Zach Collins, F/C, Fr., Gonzaga

Harry Giles, PF, Fr., Duke

Luke Kennard, G, So., Duke

Donovan Mitchell, G, So., Louisville

Tier 4 (Starters, high-level rotation players)

Jarrett Allen, C, Fr., Texas

Ike Anigbogu, C, Fr., UCLA

John Collins, PF, So., Wake Forest

Justin Patton, C, Fr., Creighton

This year I would suspect the tiers to look something like this (my quick stab at tiers)

Tier 1 (potential super star)

Doncic
Ayton

Tier 2 (potential all star)

Jackson
Porter
Bamba
Young
Bagley

Tier 3 (NBA Starter)

Bridges
Bridges
Carter

Tier 4 (Starters, high-level rotation players)

Williams
Sexton
Knox

That's 13 players who are pretty consistently ranked as the top of this draft class.
 



Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Erik on February 20, 2018, 05:27:07 PM
I hate to say it but this deal is getting worse all the time.  I love kyrie but if we keep it does Hayward get hurt?  Do we get the nets pick, do we have a deeper bench?  Someone convince me we still amdenthe right move :-[

I mean we can kick the tires here again.

How's this? Isaiah Thomas is statistically the worst player in the NBA that plays over 25 mpg.

http://on.nba.com/2BHWoxi

I don't generally use nba.com stats to prove points because basketball reference has much better stats algorithms, but they also don't have a way to filter out players that barely play and I didn't want to post a table that shows him actually 60th worst. When you remove the noise, he's the worst actual player there as well depending on whether or not you consider Derrick Rose to be an actual player (I don't).

His BPM is -6.4 (-2.0 offense and -4.4 defense), his VORP is -0.5 and his PER is 11.7. He is not playing well at all. He is actually statistically worse than the average replacement player, which isn't something that you want when you're comparing someone against Kyrie Irving.

Just for reference: Kyrie Irving BPM 5.8 (6.5 off -0.8 def), VORP 3.4 and PER 24.5. You can clearly see the large difference.

He's also visually the worst player in the NBA. He's so bad that he was just traded for a Lakers salary dump and has virtually no trade value remaining. He was clearly a major reason that the Cavs were playing horrible. He is playing defense that doesn't resemble anything of a professional NBA athlete. His shooting percentage is worse than Lonzo Ball's.

You can play a lot of what ifs about Hayward not being injured if Kyrie didn't come, but obviously that a nonsensical argument because management can't make personnel decisions through hindsight of freak injuries. If we didn't trade for Kyrie and Hayward is still injured, I don't think we're in the playoffs right now.

The Brooklyn pick is nice, but Kyrie is a guaranteed superstar. If that Nets pick falls anywhere outside the top 5, historically that will be a good starter at best. Someone nowhere near on Kyrie's level. If it falls within the top 5, it's a roll of the dice on whether or not that player can ever get to Kyrie's level. The odds are not in that person's favor given how talented Kyrie is.

Now, let's go on to contract situation. Kyrie would be eligible for a reasonably priced under 10 year vet max deal... and it doesn't happen until 2019 offseason. IT would still be clamoring about Brinks trucks. Based on his current performance, obviously we'd let him walk to some idiotic GM like Philly who would pay him about 15-20 mil because no one wants to play there. But lets say he actually played like the 5th vote getter in the MVP race. Do you want to put a supermax contract to a 5'9" 30 year old?

The pick bought us a better player and unraveled a bad contract situation. The front office has clearly recognized the pitfall of entering the repeater tax too quickly without a winning team. I made a point of this in another thread in which people claimed LeBron James is worth something astronomical 80-100 million a year. Teams just can't afford it. The longer we delay the repeater, the longer our reign will be once the team is finalized.

So, no. We didn't make a mistake.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on February 20, 2018, 05:42:12 PM
Dang ... all those promising centers, and the Cs may end up with none of them. :'(
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Csfan1984 on February 20, 2018, 06:32:00 PM
Dang ... all those promising centers, and the Cs may end up with none of them. :'(
Its okay DA would have traded down for Mikal Bridges and 2 first
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Monkhouse on February 20, 2018, 06:46:52 PM
Dang ... all those promising centers, and the Cs may end up with none of them. :'(
Its okay DA would have traded down for Mikal Bridges and 2 first

Mikal Bridges is my binkie. I like Jaren Jackson, but I'm not convinced he's anything more than 3 & D super role player.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on February 20, 2018, 07:14:34 PM
Dang ... all those promising centers, and the Cs may end up with none of them. :'(
Its okay DA would have traded down for Mikal Bridges and 2 first

LOL. Or a "combo" guard who can't shoot.

Or a 6-8 "big."

:P
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Future Celtics Owner on February 20, 2018, 10:02:41 PM
Positively need to hire a shrink for our scouting.....no headcases from left field ala Fultz.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: A Future of Stevens on February 20, 2018, 10:17:53 PM
I like Wendell Carter Jr. Obviously not enough to drop down, or reach on him, but I believe he is going to make some team really happy.

6'10 and 260 lbs of muscle with long arms(7'3.) The fact he has shown glimpses of stretching his shot to 3, means he may have a place in the modern NBA. He is truly able to feast on opposing frontcourts via scoring and dominant rebounding. He needs to go to a team with spacing. The Bulls would be an interesting spot.

Dunn/Lavine/Markkanen/Carter could be a very good team.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: trickybilly on February 26, 2018, 01:57:15 AM
Slightly off-topic: now that we are well into the season, has anyone heard recent opinions from experts about how this draft stacks up, compare to last year or next year?

This draft has some really good early talent but seems to drop off quickly. Compared to last year its debatable who has the better top tier talent but 2017 was certainly deeper.


Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Tier 2 (All-Star potential)

De'Aaron Fox, PG, Fr., Kentucky

Jonathan Isaac, F, Fr., Florida State

Josh Jackson, G/F, Fr., Kansas

Lauri Markkanen, PF, Fr., Arizona

Malik Monk, G, Fr., Kentucky

Frank Ntilikina, PG, France

Dennis Smith, PG, Fr., North Carolina State

Jayson Tatum, F, Fr., Duke

Tier 3 (NBA starters)

OG Anunoby, F, So., Indiana

Zach Collins, F/C, Fr., Gonzaga

Harry Giles, PF, Fr., Duke

Luke Kennard, G, So., Duke

Donovan Mitchell, G, So., Louisville

Tier 4 (Starters, high-level rotation players)

Jarrett Allen, C, Fr., Texas

Ike Anigbogu, C, Fr., UCLA

John Collins, PF, So., Wake Forest

Justin Patton, C, Fr., Creighton

This year I would suspect the tiers to look something like this (my quick stab at tiers)

Tier 1 (potential super star)

Doncic
Ayton

Tier 2 (potential all star)

Jackson
Porter
Bamba
Young
Bagley

Tier 3 (NBA Starter)

Bridges
Bridges
Carter

Tier 4 (Starters, high-level rotation players)

Williams
Sexton
Knox

That's 13 players who are pretty consistently ranked as the top of this draft class.

I think Porter, Bagley, and maybe Bamba are all tier 1.

Maybe Trae Young too.

Generally this year's draft is top heavy, whereas last year had fewer bluechippers (many people thought Tatum was super risky, Ball can't shoot, even Fultz had some pretty big concerns over his defense), but more depth (virtually all top 16 guys are playing a significant role in their team's rotations, lots of late first nuggets - Allen, Anunoby, Kuzma).
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: nostar on February 26, 2018, 09:52:26 AM
A lot of smart things.

TP!
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Boris Badenov on February 26, 2018, 10:40:05 AM
Positively need to hire a shrink for our scouting.....no headcases from left field ala Fultz.

I think our last few draft picks suggest that we already have one.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: wiley on February 26, 2018, 05:03:28 PM
recent binkies for pick 26 or 27:

1.  Khyri Thomas (21 on ESPN mock...later on others)
2.  Zhaire Smith
3.  Mushidi
4.  Hutchison

K. Thomas might be good enough to mitigate Rozier's loss in a trade for a big, or to help ease the loss of Smart if that unfortunate event occurs, though I don't know what his year 1 contribution will look like.


edit:  also in favor of stashing Bonga if he's still available.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Celtics4ever on February 26, 2018, 07:35:51 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: moiso on February 26, 2018, 07:59:50 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: nickagneta on February 26, 2018, 10:19:28 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.
Chad Ford buys into agent produced hype so often. Ball, Exum, Mudiay, Bender, Derrick Williams are just a few over the years he should never have been hyping as much as he did.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Atzar on February 26, 2018, 10:52:15 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.

There still is.  I'd bet against Fultz being a lost cause.  He didn't stop being talented.  And Ball has shown more flashes than Celtics fans want to admit.  His passing and rebounding are as advertised.  His defense is a bit better than advertised.  His shot was starting to come around before his injury.  I'd stop short of calling him a future superstar, but I do think he's going to be a good player.

I like our guy.  I wouldn't trade Tatum for either of them.  But I'd bet on Fultz and Ball being good NBA players.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Boris Badenov on February 26, 2018, 11:17:01 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.
Chad Ford buys into agent produced hype so often. Ball, Exum, Mudiay, Bender, Derrick Williams are just a few over the years he should never have been hyping as much as he did.

Let's not forget this gem:

Quote
But what really excites them is his mature low-post play. "More than Nowitzki, Gasol or even Divac, Darko has a nasty streak in him that will help him succeed in the post," a league executive said. "A lot of the Europeans are really threes in the pros. He'll be a true low-post player. His coach is doing us a huge favor by forcing him to develop those skills now. He already has moves that remind me of (Hakeem) Olajuwon in the post. Once we get a hold of him, the sky's the limit."

Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: chilidawg on February 27, 2018, 07:00:12 PM
Quote
Looking at Chad Fords Tiers from last draft. He has 19 players he viewed as NBA starters

Tier 1 (Potential superstars)

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Boy, he was way off on these two in retrospect but then the ESPN guys are wrong a lot because they are more about hype than substance.
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.
Chad Ford buys into agent produced hype so often. Ball, Exum, Mudiay, Bender, Derrick Williams are just a few over the years he should never have been hyping as much as he did.

And all those guys were high draft picks.  Are you saying the GM's and coaches buy into the "agent produced hype" as well? 

If anything Ford is tied into what the GM's are thinking.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: shake603 on March 01, 2018, 11:10:11 AM
I like Wendell Carter Jr. Obviously not enough to drop down, or reach on him, but I believe he is going to make some team really happy.

6'10 and 260 lbs of muscle with long arms(7'3.) The fact he has shown glimpses of stretching his shot to 3, means he may have a place in the modern NBA. He is truly able to feast on opposing frontcourts via scoring and dominant rebounding. He needs to go to a team with spacing. The Bulls would be an interesting spot.

Dunn/Lavine/Markkanen/Carter could be a very good team.

I'm firmly on the Carter train. I am completely enamored with him every time i get to watch him play. I hope this isn't considered a hot take but he's the best player on Duke in my opinion. He is the anchor that allows Bagley to play with the freedom he does. I'm sure a solid counter could be argued but that's how I see it.

He would be a tremendous fit and plus value for us. I dream of a scenario where he falls in the draft to one of the Clippers picks and we trade with them. I know its less than a 1% chance but that is what dreams are for.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 01, 2018, 11:27:20 AM
Besides DeAndre Ayton, I'm not enamored with any of the top picks. I'm actually happy that it looks like the LA pick won't convey.

I don't know what to think about Doncic and Bagley, and I'm not sure if Bamba will develop an offensive game. Jaren Jackson intrigues me, but I'm not sure that he will be a star. Trae Young looks like a potential bust. Michael Porter is a mystery at this point.

Let's go Kings pick! Bol Bol would look great in green.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: chilidawg on March 01, 2018, 03:20:19 PM
I like Wendell Carter Jr. Obviously not enough to drop down, or reach on him, but I believe he is going to make some team really happy.

6'10 and 260 lbs of muscle with long arms(7'3.) The fact he has shown glimpses of stretching his shot to 3, means he may have a place in the modern NBA. He is truly able to feast on opposing frontcourts via scoring and dominant rebounding. He needs to go to a team with spacing. The Bulls would be an interesting spot.

Dunn/Lavine/Markkanen/Carter could be a very good team.

I'm firmly on the Carter train. I am completely enamored with him every time i get to watch him play. I hope this isn't considered a hot take but he's the best player on Duke in my opinion. He is the anchor that allows Bagley to play with the freedom he does. I'm sure a solid counter could be argued but that's how I see it.

He would be a tremendous fit and plus value for us. I dream of a scenario where he falls in the draft to one of the Clippers picks and we trade with them. I know its less than a 1% chance but that is what dreams are for.

Carter to me looks like a solid, near all-star type player, but lacks the explosiveness or ability to create to be more than that at the next level.  High floor, but modest ceiling.  I'd agree that he's been Duke's best player, certainly the most consistent.  But Bagley has a much higher ceiling imo.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: CelticsElite on March 01, 2018, 03:22:42 PM
Carters floor seems to be a better version of Greg monroe + defense

The ceiling is al horford
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Atzar on March 01, 2018, 04:37:57 PM
Carters floor seems to be a better version of Greg monroe + defense

The ceiling is al horford

Nah.  People throw out these unrealistic floors for players too often IMO.  Carter's floor is a washout.  That goes for most players in this or any other draft.  There are very few can't-miss talents out there.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Celtics4ever on March 01, 2018, 07:31:56 PM
Quote
They were drafted one and two so there was substance there.

Thus far, their play is more indicative of hype...

Quote
I'd bet against Fultz being a lost cause.  He didn't stop being talented.  And Ball has shown more flashes than Celtics fans want to admit.  His passing and rebounding are as advertised.  His defense is a bit better than advertised.  His shot was starting to come around before his injury.  I'd stop short of calling him a future superstar, but I do think he's going to be a good player.

I think you're wrong about Fultz,  they hid him his senior year for a reason.   Ball can pass, but  is he a solid nba defender?   He plays way off his man because is he is slower than a lot of guy luckily his size enables him to still play some defense.   He was second in defensive rating on the Lakers behind Nance Jr.   but the Lakers are not an elite team.   Daddy can't help him now.   He might be an ok NBA player and can fill a stat sheet  but for the season he is still shooting .363 from the field.  Now matter you stretch it is pretty ball.

http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4066421/lonzo-ball

Quote
Chad Ford buys into agent produced hype so often. Ball, Exum, Mudiay, Bender, Derrick Williams are just a few over the years he should never have been hyping as much as he did

Agree 100% but isn't ESPN more about hype than substance in general.   
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: moiso on March 01, 2018, 08:29:37 PM
Carters floor seems to be a better version of Greg monroe + defense

The ceiling is al horford

Nah.  People throw out these unrealistic floors for players too often IMO.  Carter's floor is a washout.  That goes for most players in this or any other draft.  There are very few can't-miss talents out there.
Great point.  TP.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: wiley on March 20, 2018, 11:54:21 PM
Any updates from Givony?  TP for thread..

I'm interested in Khyri Thomas and K. Mushidi if we lose Smart to another team or if Rozier is traded.
If we have Rozier and Smart back next year then I'd hope SF Bonga is available to stash...
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: Somebody on March 21, 2018, 12:41:38 AM
Any updates from Givony?  TP for thread..

I'm interested in Khyri Thomas and K. Mushidi if we lose Smart to another team or if Rozier is traded.
If we have Rozier and Smart back next year then I'd hope SF Bonga is available to stash...
Isn't Bonga playing PG in France as a matchup nightmare?
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: shake603 on March 21, 2018, 11:39:54 AM
Any updates from Givony?  TP for thread..

I'm interested in Khyri Thomas and K. Mushidi if we lose Smart to another team or if Rozier is traded.
If we have Rozier and Smart back next year then I'd hope SF Bonga is available to stash...
Isn't Bonga playing PG in France as a matchup nightmare?

From the little I've seen (really not much at all) it seems that way. I hope there are other CB posters who could fill us in on him if they've seen more. He's super intriguing and may even be a mid second round stash kind of opportunity.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: ederson on March 21, 2018, 12:00:16 PM
Any updates from Givony?  TP for thread..

I'm interested in Khyri Thomas and K. Mushidi if we lose Smart to another team or if Rozier is traded.
If we have Rozier and Smart back next year then I'd hope SF Bonga is available to stash...
Isn't Bonga playing PG in France as a matchup nightmare?

Are we talking about Isaac Bonga? Cause this Bonga plays in Germany for Frankfurt. I wouldn't call him a matchup nightmare but he does looks interesting for the second round. He needs a lot of developing  cause he is not really good at anything but imho the potential is there (but i've been wrong many times before so what do i know :D)
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: tonydelk on March 21, 2018, 12:32:20 PM
Carters floor seems to be a better version of Greg monroe + defense

The ceiling is al horford

Nah.  People throw out these unrealistic floors for players too often IMO.  Carter's floor is a washout.  That goes for most players in this or any other draft.  There are very few can't-miss talents out there.
Great point.  TP.

While this is true maybe it's better to say his low ceiling is Monroe and his high ceiling is Horford.  Most players never reach their high ceiling and a lot never reach their low ceiling.  It's fun to predict though.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: number_n9ne on June 22, 2018, 10:12:41 AM
I always want to trade up, which never happens, but I think Robert Williams in the teens would be such a steal. I would trade the 2018 and 2019 BOS first round pics to move up for him. Targeting the Clippers (who's pick we own in 2019 protected 1-14) would be a good strategy. We could even trade them back their own pick.

Had him as a steal back in February  ;D ;D ;D

Where the Tommy Points at???
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: boscel33 on June 22, 2018, 11:50:16 AM
I always want to trade up, which never happens, but I think Robert Williams in the teens would be such a steal. I would trade the 2018 and 2019 BOS first round pics to move up for him. Targeting the Clippers (who's pick we own in 2019 protected 1-14) would be a good strategy. We could even trade them back their own pick.

Had him as a steal back in February  ;D ;D ;D

Where the Tommy Points at???

I gave ya one.  I jumped on his bandwagon last week, my trade was, Rozier, 27, and the Clips pick to Phoenix for 16 to get him.
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: liam on June 22, 2018, 12:25:32 PM
I always want to trade up, which never happens, but I think Robert Williams in the teens would be such a steal. I would trade the 2018 and 2019 BOS first round pics to move up for him. Targeting the Clippers (who's pick we own in 2019 protected 1-14) would be a good strategy. We could even trade them back their own pick.

Had him as a steal back in February  ;D ;D ;D

Where the Tommy Points at???

I gave ya one.  I jumped on his bandwagon last week, my trade was, Rozier, 27, and the Clips pick to Phoenix for 16 to get him.

TPs for you both!
Title: Re: Newest ESPN mock draft (2/20/18)
Post by: liam on June 22, 2018, 12:26:51 PM
Any updates from Givony?  TP for thread..

I'm interested in Khyri Thomas and K. Mushidi if we lose Smart to another team or if Rozier is traded.
If we have Rozier and Smart back next year then I'd hope SF Bonga is available to stash...
Isn't Bonga playing PG in France as a matchup nightmare?

Are we talking about Isaac Bonga? Cause this Bonga plays in Germany for Frankfurt. I wouldn't call him a matchup nightmare but he does looks interesting for the second round. He needs a lot of developing  cause he is not really good at anything but imho the potential is there (but i've been wrong many times before so what do i know :D)

Bonga sadly went to the lakers....