As a Wolves fan, I thought that drafting O.J. Mayo wouldn't be a good idea. Yes, I love his talent and his potential for greatness. But on a team that is guard-heavy, I wondered how he would fit in.
No sense in worrying too much about that. Kevin McHale made another draft day trade, but this time I think it could be alright.
Minnesota Gets: Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins
Memphis Gets: O.J. Mayo, Antoine Walker, Greg Buckner and Marko Jaric
This deal allows the Timberwolves to rid themselves of Walker's poor attitude and Jaric's contract, which has three years and more than $21 million left on it.
Miller will fill a need for Minnesota as a legit perimeter threat and Love will give the Wolves a 6-10 power forward who can play alongside Al Jefferson and last year's first round pick Corey Brewer in the frontcourt. Collins has one year left on his contract and Cardinal has two years left, which means going forward the wolves are going to be a big player in the free agent market.
Love came to Minnesota during his senior year of High School to participate in some National HS Basketball tournament. I remember him playing great and the Star Tribune putting his picture on the front page of the sports section. Last year while at UCLA, Love set freshman records for scoring and rebounding on his way to being named the Pac-10 player of the year (edging Mayo).
Memphis will use Mayo as a shooting guard, pairing him with last year's fourth overall pick Mike Conley. The Grizzlies probably could have used Love at the forward spot, but they'll fill the missing holes with Rudy G@y, Hakim Warrick and Kwame Brown. It appears that the Grizzlies are going to be stuck in the lottery for a couple more years, unless the young group figures out how to mesh together -- depth might be a factor. The Grizzlies will have to rely somewhat heavily on Marko Jaric as well as newly acquired veterans Walker and Buckner.
It's hard to forget the last lottery-swap the T'Wolves made because it didn't exactly turn out perfect. Two years ago the Wolves traded Brandon Roy to Portland for Randy Foye -- Roy went on to become Rookie of the Year and then and All-Star last year, while Foye was sidelined for most of last season. Hopefully, this trade can turn out better.
The headline of today's Star Tribune says: "This deal will be OK unless Mayo becomes a superstar".
Friday, June 27, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
NBA DRAFT 2008: A Collaborate Mock Draft (6/24/08)
Hey, let's get predictions for tomorrow night's NBA Draft. Make a comment with your lottery picks (Nos. 1-14) on this thread so we can keep track of each others picks. During the past week or so, I asked a few of PROTRADE's best NBA draft minds to submit their picks to me beforehand, those picks are displayed in the post along with a little banter from "experts" Chad Ford and Bill Simmons, and the picks from popular draft sites NBADraft.net and DraftExpress.com.
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1st Overall: Chicago Bulls
Last Year 1st Rnd: Joakim Noah, 9th
Team Needs: Point Guard/Center
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My Pick: Michael Beasley -- While Rose has the potential to be on the same level someday as Jason Kidd or Chris Paul, the Bulls already have Krik Hinrich. Beasley is too beastly to pass up, if the Bulls don't go for the college POY, they'll be sorry.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Derrick Rose
PinballClemens: Michael Beasley -- Despite rumors of Chicago leaning towards the hometown favorite in Derrick Rose, I see the Bulls clearly needing to upgrade their talent at the PF spot. Drew Gooden just isn't going to cut it at the four spot for an 82- game season, so expect Chicago to take the explosive forward Michael Beasley with their No. 1 overall pick. At only 19 years old, the sky is the limit for this phenom -expect him to come in and average 25 points and 8 rebounds a game off the bat. With Hinrich already locked up in a multi-year deal, Beasley seems like the prudent choice for Bulls' future.
Toddler84: Michael Beasley -- But if you are the GM and want to sell more tickets right away the choice is Rose... And remember now, the Bulls are LUCKY to even have this pick and Beasley is the better and bigger talent, hands down.
NBADraft.net: Derrick Rose
DraftExpress.com: Derrick Rose
Chad Ford: Derrick Rose -- Rose and Beasley finally got their close-ups in Chicago last week, and sources say both players worked out well.
Bill Simmons: Derrick Rose
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2nd Overall: Miami Heat
Last Year 1st Rnd: Jason Smith (Traded), 20th
Team Needs: Point Guard/PowerForward/Center
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My Pick: Derrick Rose -- Rose is athletic, speedy, has size and is a proven winner. He falls to the Heat at No. 2 because there is still room for improvement on his outside shot and his passing ability.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Michael Beasley
PinballClemens: Derrick Rose -- I see Derrick Rose being available and taken with the No. 2 pick, as Miami is almost certainly looking to go point guard with this pick. Miami is a team that needs leadership, defense and a player willing to sacrifice himself and his glory for the good of the team. Derrick Rose seems to fit those qualities. If, not available, expect Miami to trade down this pick somewhere for a veteran forward and draft between Nos. 4-6 and try to get Bayless or Westbrook.
Toddler84: Derrick Rose -- He would compliment Wade and Marion very well, especially in transition. Miami will be right back in the hunt with either pick, but great point guards are harder to find.
NBADraft.net: Michael Beasley
DraftExpress.com: Michael Beasley
Chad Ford: Michael Beasley -- The Heat continue to wait and hope that somehow Rose falls to them at No. 2. Rose opted against working out in Miami, but did invite Heat brass to Los Angeles for a private workout -- though Heat team president Pat Riley didn't show up.
Bill Simmons: Michael Beasley
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3rd Overall: Minnesota Timberwolves
Last Year 1st Rnd: Corey Brewer, 7th
Team Needs: Center/Point Guard
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My Pick: Brook Lopez -- As a Wolves fan, I've come to dread draft day. This year, I don't care who we take with our "Leattner" pick. At 21, Lopez seems to have the most upside for a team that would love to have a solid 7-footer to complement Al Jefferson.
MilwaukeeBaller32: O.J. Mayo
PinballClemens: O.J. Mayo -- Minnesota will most likely trade this pick down for an established NBA pro at the forward position (ie- Charlie Villanueva from Milwaukee) and be drafting in the No. 8 spot. Expect the Milwaukee Bucks to grab this No. 3 draft position and draft the man they have been coveting - O.J. Mayo
Toddler84: Brook Lopez -- The presence of Lopez will not only take the pressure off of Jefferson but will turn Big Al into a future All-Star. Then, maybe the "Puppies" will look like the Wolves again. Mayo is still a project, while Lopez is ready to make an impact.
NBADraft.net: O.J. Mayo
DraftExpress.com: O.J. Mayo
Chad Ford: O.J. Mayo -- As of Sunday, the word out of Minnesota was that the team will draft Mayo if Beasley is off the board. Though Mayo doesn't fit a need, he would be considered the best player available, and that appears to be swaying Minnesota in his direction.
Bill Simmons: Kevin Love
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4th Overall: Seattle SuperSonics
Last Year 1st Rnd: Kevin Durant, 2nd
Team Needs: Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Jerryd Bayless -- The Wildcat freshman has star-quality and will look to become the next best ex-Arizona NBA point guard (Mike Bibby, Gilbert Arenas, Jason Terry, Damon Stoudamire).
MilwaukeeBaller32: Jerryd Bayless
PinballClemens: Eric Gordon -- Expect Seattle to build on their young nucleus of last year and take the sweet shooting two-guard out of Indiana. Eric Gordon looks like he could possibly be the most "polished" offensive pro of the draft, and at only 19 has plenty of room to grow and develop with the likes of Jeff Green and Kevin Durant.
Toddler84: Eric Gordon -- He is a little bigger than Mayo/Bayless and would open up Durant's game to an All-Star level.
NBADraft.net: Jerryd Bayless
DraftExpress.com: Brook Lopez
Chad Ford: Russell Westbrook -- So why Westbrook? Two reasons: upside and defense. The Sonics have time to let players develop and Westbrook could turn into a better shooting version of Rajon Rondo down the road.
Bill Simmons: O.J. Mayo -- If there's an NBA god, Mayo will land in Seattle and not on the Timberwolves, Knicks or Clippers.
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5th Overall: Memphis Grizzlies
Last Year 1st Rnd: Mike Conley, 4th
Team Needs: Center/Power Forward
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My Pick: O.J. Mayo -- Although the Grizzlies are probably the team that Mayo would least like to play for, it might be the best situation. Mayo would add immediate personality, something the Grizzlies starters (G@y, Conley, Miller) lack.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Kevin Love
PinballClemens: Kevin Love -- The loss of Pau Gasol left a void for a talented big man at the #4 spot. Kevin Love is NBA ready and can give the Grizzlies a much needed boost on offense with his passing ability and rebounding skills. I see the Grizzlies taking Kevin Love with the No. 5 overall pick. If Eric Gordon is available, he could also be the odds-on favorite.
Toddler84: Kevin Love -- He is a force and has a smooth shot, which could edge him past Mayo/Bayless.
NBADraft.net: Kevin Love
DraftExpress.com: Kevin Love
Chad Ford: Eric Gordon -- For weeks we've been hearing that the Grizzlies are high on Love. He fits a need, is one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft and would be popular in Memphis. He still could be the pick. But there's a growing chorus saying that the Grizzlies are looking strongly at Gordon -- an athletic, sweet-shooting 2-guard -- with the pick.
Bill Simmons: Danilo Gallinari -- Frankly, I don't see how Memphis takes anyone else.
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6th Overall: New York Knicks
Last Year 1st Rnd: Wilson Chandler, 23rd
Team Needs: Guard/Center
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My Pick: Eric Gordon -- Prior to an injury-filled freshman season at Indiana, Gordon was being compared to both Rose and Beasley.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Russell Westbrook
PinballClemens: Jerrd Bayless -- Many experts have the Knicks picking the small forward Gallanari from Italy. But something tells me they are after bigger "game" at the Garden. I have to say that the Knicks will most likely try and trade up with either Seattle, Memphis or Minnesota with this pick, packaging David Lee and this pick and will try to acquire either Eric Gordon or O.J. Mayo if they can. If no deal can get done, I expect New York to take Jerrd Bayless.
Toddler84: O.J. Mayo -- He has a "New Yorker" attitude, aka cocky, and would be a good fit in the Big Apple. But he's over-rated, so don't be surprised if he falls.
NBADraft.net: Russell Westbrook
DraftExpress.com: Danilo Gallinari
Chad Ford: Danilo Gallinari -- Gallinari has worked out well everywhere and it sounds like the Knicks are comfortable with him here.
Bill Simmons: Russell Westbrook -- I bought a ticket for the Westbrook Bandwagon back in December and have been touting him ever since.
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7th Overall: Los Angeles Clippers
Last Year 1st Rnd: Julian Wright, 13th
Team Needs: Guard/Small Forward
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My Pick: Russell Westbrook -- The Clippers will have to decide between whoever is available from the guard group: Bayless, Gordon, Westbrook and Augustin.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Danilo Gallinari
PinballClemens: Russell Westbrook -- Los Angeles is desperately looking for a PG here. Westbrook is a young and athletic point guard whom they can build a young nucleus around in this draft.
Toddler84: Russell Westbrook -- He can give them size and energy.
NBADraft.net: Eric Gordon
DraftExpress.com: Jerryd Bayless
Chad Ford: Jerryd Bayless -- The Clippers have been trying to move up in the draft to get Mayo or Bayless. In this scenario, they have Bayless drop into their lap.
Bill Simmons: Eric Gordon
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8th Overall: Milwaukee Bucks
Last Year 1st Rnd: Yi Jianlian, 6th
Team Needs: Forward/Center
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My Pick: Kevin Love -- If the Bucks are going to draft Joe Alexander, here at No. 8, they are out of their minds. Passing on talent like Kevin Love, Danilo Gallinari, D.J. Augustin or Anthony Randolph to take Alexander wouldn't exactly fill an more of the already empty Bradley Center.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Eric Gordon
PinballClemens: Joe Alexander -- More than likely I see the Bucks trading this pick along with SF Charlie Villanueva to Minnesota in order to get the No. 3 pick. If the Bucks don't trade up, the Bucks will more than likely select the energetic Joe Alexander from West Virginia anyways.
Toddler84: Joe Alexander-- He will have a lot to prove. Plus, doesn't he look like he's from Wisconsin... those cheese heads will grow to love him.
NBADraft.net: Joe Alexander
DraftExpress.com: Joe Alexander
Chad Ford: Joe Alexander -- It sounds like Anthony Randolph is the other player the Bucks are looking at closely here. However, Randolph is further away than Alexander right now. Alexander is still a work in progress too, but if he figures things out, he has a chance to be really special.
Bill Simmons: Joe Alexander -- I don't love the pick for the Bucks since they already have approximately 25 swingmen, but they don't need another combo guard (like Bayless) or a soft inside player (like Brook Lopez), so what the hell do they do?
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9th Overall: Charlotte Bobcats
Last Year 1st Rnd: Brandan Wright (Traded), 8th
Team Needs: Small Forward/Center
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My Pick: Danilo Gallinari -- Gallinari is yet another Italian prospect with plenty of upside. If the Bobcats are trying to draft for the future, they'll go with Gallinari or Anthony Randolph. The real hope for Charlotte is that Brook Lopez falls to them.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Brook Lopez
PinballClemens: Brook Lopez -- The Bobcats definitely need a big man to complement their front line of Okafor, Morrison and Wallace. That is where Brook Lopez and his 7'0" - 250 lb. frame come in.
Toddler84: Danilo Gallinari-- Good investment, but might take time to adjust.
NBADraft.net: Brook Lopez
DraftExpress.com: Russell Westbrook
Chad Ford: Kevin Love -- Love's a Larry Brown type of player -- he knows how to "play the right way." Love would bring toughness, rebounding, basketball IQ and the ability to step in and contribute right now. While he doesn't have ideal size, he knows his way around the basket.
Bill Simmons: Brook Lopez -- I like this pick for them -- he plays hard, he should be able to score in the pros, he's coachable and the Larry Brown/Emeka Okafor combo should be able to protect him defensively a little.
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10th Overall: New Jersey Nets
Last Year 1st Rnd: Sean Williams, 17th
Team Needs: Shooting Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Anthony Randolph -- The Nets could go in so many directions with this pick. They are pretty much picking by default, previous picks will determine which direction the Nets will take.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Anthony Randolph
PinballClemens: Alexis Ajinca -- This Nets squad is desperate for a big man that can play the low post, score and rebound. The ideal pick would be Brook Lopez, but expect him to be gone at this point. Ajinca is a 7'0" athletic big man who is very skilled and can step in right away to contribute.
Toddler84: D.J. Augustin -- He would be a good leader in transition, he can break down D, and has a better shot than J Kidd, so why not?
NBADraft.net: Danilo Gallinari
DraftExpress.com: Eric Gordon
Chad Ford: Brook Lopez -- Lopez may have been projected too high at No. 3, but he would be a steal at this point in the draft. The Nets have been looking for a strong, scoring big man for years and Lopez really fits the bill.
Bill Simmons: Darrell Arthur -- Arthur worries me because of the whole "if he didn't try all the time in college, then why would he try all the time if he's making guaranteed money?" conundrum.
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11th Overall: Indiana Pacers
Last Year 1st Rnd: No Pick (Traded to Atlanta)
Team Needs: Guard/Center
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My Pick: D.J. Augustin -- The Pacers look like they are in line to grab D.J. Augustin as a back-up for Jamaal Tinsley.
MilwaukeeBaller32: D.J. Augustin
PinballClemens: D. J. Augustin -- Only 20 years old and plenty of basketball IQ, expect Augustin to be on Indiana's radar. Danilo Gallanari or Joe Alexander could be their other options, especially if the Pacers decide to trade away Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto as is heavily rumored.
Toddler84: Jarryd Bayless -- He's quick and has a good basketball IQ. Bayless and Augustin have similar styles and could switch spots.
NBADraft.net: Anthony Randolph
DraftExpress.com: D.J Augustin
Chad Ford: D.J. Augustin -- The Pacers have been eying two point guards -- D.J. Augustin and Russell Westbrook -- for a while. Augustin is a better floor leader than Westbrook and a better perimeter shooter, and he's more ready to step in and play right away. He should be an excellent fit for Indiana.
Bill Simmons: Jerryd Bayless -- He's not really a point guard, but he could absolutely dribble the ball upcourt and run the offense during the 40 games a year that Tinsley takes off, and I personally guarantee that he has a higher ceiling than Travis Diener.
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12th Overall: Sacramento Kings
Last Year 1st Rnd: Spencer Hawes, 10th
Team Needs: Point Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Roy Hibbert -- It doesn't seem like Hibbert has the skills to become the next legendary Georgetown big man, but he's got great potential. After a shaky season last year, Hibbert saw his draft stock plummet. I'd say the Kings benefit and with this pick become a legit playoff threat.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Roy Hibbert
PinballClemens: Mario Chalmers -- The Kings need to solidify their back court and Mario Chalmers looks like the man who can help. He can come in and play PG with Beno Udrih adding depth from the bench. If Danilo Gallanari is still on the board at this spot expect him to be grabbed up also.
Toddler84: Roy Hibbert -- Sac needs a center, other than Brad Miller (Mikki Moore doesn't count).
NBADraft.net: Roy Hibbert
DraftExpress.com: Anthony Randolph
Chad Ford: Mario Chalmers -- Another option for the Kings is Roy Hibbert. Like Chalmers, Hibbert wouldn't be an upside pick. But he would be able to step in right away and contribute.
Bill Simmons: Roy Hibbert -- If I were running the Kings, I'd go with Roy Hibbert here over forcing a point guard pick.
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13th Overall: Portland Trail Blazers
Last Year 1st Rnd: Greg Oden, 1st
Team Needs: Forward/Center
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My Pick: Kosta Koufos -- This might be a stretch, but the Blazers could use a back-up for Oden. If Hibbert is drafted No. 12 to Sacramento, I see the Blazers reaching for Koufos -- who had he returned to school might have been a top 5 pick a year from now.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Joe Alexander
PinballClemens: Brandon Rush -- I see the Blazers more than likely trading away this pick and to No. 15 Phoenix Suns for a trade in which they offer some of their young forwards to Phoenix and the No. 13 pick in exchange for Leandro Barbosa and the No. 15 pick. The Suns should select Brandon Rush or Mario Chalmers (if available) with this pick.
Toddler84: Brandon Rush -- Rush and Roy could feed off each other and exploit smaller match-ups.
NBADraft.net: Brandon Rush
DraftExpress.com: Alexis Ajinca
Chad Ford: Alexis Ajinca -- Ajinca is a long, athletic big man who is pretty skilled. He doesn't fill a need for the Blazers, but Pritchard loves to gather assets.
Bill Simmons: Brandon Rush
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14th Overall: Golden State Warriors
Last Year 1st Rnd: Marco Belinelli, 18th
Team Needs: Forward/Shooting Guard
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My Pick: Darrell Arthur -- The Kansas National Champ has an NBA ready game, he could have helped the Jayhawks next season's repeat attempt, but the Warriors are glad he decided to forgo his Junior year.
MilwaukeeBaller32: DeAndre Jordan
PinballClemens: Kosta Koufos -- I see the Golden State Warriors drafting the versatile big man Kosta Koufos (Ohio State) to play center in a part-time role while he bulks up. Koufos can run and gun and shoot the ball decently from mid-range. He also has some shot blocking ability. Don't be surprised if Nellie decides to trade B-Diddy and the pick for a lower pick as well if the offer is right.
Toddler84: Anthony Randolph -- His athletic ability would go well with the Warriors run-and-gun style.
NBADraft.net: Kosta Koufos
DraftExpress.com: Donte Greene
Chad Ford: Kosta Koufos -- By all accounts, Koufos has been excellent in workouts and could have become a top-five pick had he waited until 2009.
Bill Simmons: Kosta Koufos
Comments and predictions from Ford and Simmons came from ESPN.com.
Leave your predictions as a comment!
The NBA Draft is Thursday June 26th at 7pm ET
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1st Overall: Chicago Bulls
Last Year 1st Rnd: Joakim Noah, 9th
Team Needs: Point Guard/Center
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My Pick: Michael Beasley -- While Rose has the potential to be on the same level someday as Jason Kidd or Chris Paul, the Bulls already have Krik Hinrich. Beasley is too beastly to pass up, if the Bulls don't go for the college POY, they'll be sorry.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Derrick Rose
PinballClemens: Michael Beasley -- Despite rumors of Chicago leaning towards the hometown favorite in Derrick Rose, I see the Bulls clearly needing to upgrade their talent at the PF spot. Drew Gooden just isn't going to cut it at the four spot for an 82- game season, so expect Chicago to take the explosive forward Michael Beasley with their No. 1 overall pick. At only 19 years old, the sky is the limit for this phenom -expect him to come in and average 25 points and 8 rebounds a game off the bat. With Hinrich already locked up in a multi-year deal, Beasley seems like the prudent choice for Bulls' future.
Toddler84: Michael Beasley -- But if you are the GM and want to sell more tickets right away the choice is Rose... And remember now, the Bulls are LUCKY to even have this pick and Beasley is the better and bigger talent, hands down.
NBADraft.net: Derrick Rose
DraftExpress.com: Derrick Rose
Chad Ford: Derrick Rose -- Rose and Beasley finally got their close-ups in Chicago last week, and sources say both players worked out well.
Bill Simmons: Derrick Rose
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2nd Overall: Miami Heat
Last Year 1st Rnd: Jason Smith (Traded), 20th
Team Needs: Point Guard/PowerForward/Center
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My Pick: Derrick Rose -- Rose is athletic, speedy, has size and is a proven winner. He falls to the Heat at No. 2 because there is still room for improvement on his outside shot and his passing ability.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Michael Beasley
PinballClemens: Derrick Rose -- I see Derrick Rose being available and taken with the No. 2 pick, as Miami is almost certainly looking to go point guard with this pick. Miami is a team that needs leadership, defense and a player willing to sacrifice himself and his glory for the good of the team. Derrick Rose seems to fit those qualities. If, not available, expect Miami to trade down this pick somewhere for a veteran forward and draft between Nos. 4-6 and try to get Bayless or Westbrook.
Toddler84: Derrick Rose -- He would compliment Wade and Marion very well, especially in transition. Miami will be right back in the hunt with either pick, but great point guards are harder to find.
NBADraft.net: Michael Beasley
DraftExpress.com: Michael Beasley
Chad Ford: Michael Beasley -- The Heat continue to wait and hope that somehow Rose falls to them at No. 2. Rose opted against working out in Miami, but did invite Heat brass to Los Angeles for a private workout -- though Heat team president Pat Riley didn't show up.
Bill Simmons: Michael Beasley
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3rd Overall: Minnesota Timberwolves
Last Year 1st Rnd: Corey Brewer, 7th
Team Needs: Center/Point Guard
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My Pick: Brook Lopez -- As a Wolves fan, I've come to dread draft day. This year, I don't care who we take with our "Leattner" pick. At 21, Lopez seems to have the most upside for a team that would love to have a solid 7-footer to complement Al Jefferson.
MilwaukeeBaller32: O.J. Mayo
PinballClemens: O.J. Mayo -- Minnesota will most likely trade this pick down for an established NBA pro at the forward position (ie- Charlie Villanueva from Milwaukee) and be drafting in the No. 8 spot. Expect the Milwaukee Bucks to grab this No. 3 draft position and draft the man they have been coveting - O.J. Mayo
Toddler84: Brook Lopez -- The presence of Lopez will not only take the pressure off of Jefferson but will turn Big Al into a future All-Star. Then, maybe the "Puppies" will look like the Wolves again. Mayo is still a project, while Lopez is ready to make an impact.
NBADraft.net: O.J. Mayo
DraftExpress.com: O.J. Mayo
Chad Ford: O.J. Mayo -- As of Sunday, the word out of Minnesota was that the team will draft Mayo if Beasley is off the board. Though Mayo doesn't fit a need, he would be considered the best player available, and that appears to be swaying Minnesota in his direction.
Bill Simmons: Kevin Love
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4th Overall: Seattle SuperSonics
Last Year 1st Rnd: Kevin Durant, 2nd
Team Needs: Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Jerryd Bayless -- The Wildcat freshman has star-quality and will look to become the next best ex-Arizona NBA point guard (Mike Bibby, Gilbert Arenas, Jason Terry, Damon Stoudamire).
MilwaukeeBaller32: Jerryd Bayless
PinballClemens: Eric Gordon -- Expect Seattle to build on their young nucleus of last year and take the sweet shooting two-guard out of Indiana. Eric Gordon looks like he could possibly be the most "polished" offensive pro of the draft, and at only 19 has plenty of room to grow and develop with the likes of Jeff Green and Kevin Durant.
Toddler84: Eric Gordon -- He is a little bigger than Mayo/Bayless and would open up Durant's game to an All-Star level.
NBADraft.net: Jerryd Bayless
DraftExpress.com: Brook Lopez
Chad Ford: Russell Westbrook -- So why Westbrook? Two reasons: upside and defense. The Sonics have time to let players develop and Westbrook could turn into a better shooting version of Rajon Rondo down the road.
Bill Simmons: O.J. Mayo -- If there's an NBA god, Mayo will land in Seattle and not on the Timberwolves, Knicks or Clippers.
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5th Overall: Memphis Grizzlies
Last Year 1st Rnd: Mike Conley, 4th
Team Needs: Center/Power Forward
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My Pick: O.J. Mayo -- Although the Grizzlies are probably the team that Mayo would least like to play for, it might be the best situation. Mayo would add immediate personality, something the Grizzlies starters (G@y, Conley, Miller) lack.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Kevin Love
PinballClemens: Kevin Love -- The loss of Pau Gasol left a void for a talented big man at the #4 spot. Kevin Love is NBA ready and can give the Grizzlies a much needed boost on offense with his passing ability and rebounding skills. I see the Grizzlies taking Kevin Love with the No. 5 overall pick. If Eric Gordon is available, he could also be the odds-on favorite.
Toddler84: Kevin Love -- He is a force and has a smooth shot, which could edge him past Mayo/Bayless.
NBADraft.net: Kevin Love
DraftExpress.com: Kevin Love
Chad Ford: Eric Gordon -- For weeks we've been hearing that the Grizzlies are high on Love. He fits a need, is one of the more NBA-ready players in the draft and would be popular in Memphis. He still could be the pick. But there's a growing chorus saying that the Grizzlies are looking strongly at Gordon -- an athletic, sweet-shooting 2-guard -- with the pick.
Bill Simmons: Danilo Gallinari -- Frankly, I don't see how Memphis takes anyone else.
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6th Overall: New York Knicks
Last Year 1st Rnd: Wilson Chandler, 23rd
Team Needs: Guard/Center
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My Pick: Eric Gordon -- Prior to an injury-filled freshman season at Indiana, Gordon was being compared to both Rose and Beasley.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Russell Westbrook
PinballClemens: Jerrd Bayless -- Many experts have the Knicks picking the small forward Gallanari from Italy. But something tells me they are after bigger "game" at the Garden. I have to say that the Knicks will most likely try and trade up with either Seattle, Memphis or Minnesota with this pick, packaging David Lee and this pick and will try to acquire either Eric Gordon or O.J. Mayo if they can. If no deal can get done, I expect New York to take Jerrd Bayless.
Toddler84: O.J. Mayo -- He has a "New Yorker" attitude, aka cocky, and would be a good fit in the Big Apple. But he's over-rated, so don't be surprised if he falls.
NBADraft.net: Russell Westbrook
DraftExpress.com: Danilo Gallinari
Chad Ford: Danilo Gallinari -- Gallinari has worked out well everywhere and it sounds like the Knicks are comfortable with him here.
Bill Simmons: Russell Westbrook -- I bought a ticket for the Westbrook Bandwagon back in December and have been touting him ever since.
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7th Overall: Los Angeles Clippers
Last Year 1st Rnd: Julian Wright, 13th
Team Needs: Guard/Small Forward
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My Pick: Russell Westbrook -- The Clippers will have to decide between whoever is available from the guard group: Bayless, Gordon, Westbrook and Augustin.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Danilo Gallinari
PinballClemens: Russell Westbrook -- Los Angeles is desperately looking for a PG here. Westbrook is a young and athletic point guard whom they can build a young nucleus around in this draft.
Toddler84: Russell Westbrook -- He can give them size and energy.
NBADraft.net: Eric Gordon
DraftExpress.com: Jerryd Bayless
Chad Ford: Jerryd Bayless -- The Clippers have been trying to move up in the draft to get Mayo or Bayless. In this scenario, they have Bayless drop into their lap.
Bill Simmons: Eric Gordon
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8th Overall: Milwaukee Bucks
Last Year 1st Rnd: Yi Jianlian, 6th
Team Needs: Forward/Center
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My Pick: Kevin Love -- If the Bucks are going to draft Joe Alexander, here at No. 8, they are out of their minds. Passing on talent like Kevin Love, Danilo Gallinari, D.J. Augustin or Anthony Randolph to take Alexander wouldn't exactly fill an more of the already empty Bradley Center.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Eric Gordon
PinballClemens: Joe Alexander -- More than likely I see the Bucks trading this pick along with SF Charlie Villanueva to Minnesota in order to get the No. 3 pick. If the Bucks don't trade up, the Bucks will more than likely select the energetic Joe Alexander from West Virginia anyways.
Toddler84: Joe Alexander-- He will have a lot to prove. Plus, doesn't he look like he's from Wisconsin... those cheese heads will grow to love him.
NBADraft.net: Joe Alexander
DraftExpress.com: Joe Alexander
Chad Ford: Joe Alexander -- It sounds like Anthony Randolph is the other player the Bucks are looking at closely here. However, Randolph is further away than Alexander right now. Alexander is still a work in progress too, but if he figures things out, he has a chance to be really special.
Bill Simmons: Joe Alexander -- I don't love the pick for the Bucks since they already have approximately 25 swingmen, but they don't need another combo guard (like Bayless) or a soft inside player (like Brook Lopez), so what the hell do they do?
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9th Overall: Charlotte Bobcats
Last Year 1st Rnd: Brandan Wright (Traded), 8th
Team Needs: Small Forward/Center
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My Pick: Danilo Gallinari -- Gallinari is yet another Italian prospect with plenty of upside. If the Bobcats are trying to draft for the future, they'll go with Gallinari or Anthony Randolph. The real hope for Charlotte is that Brook Lopez falls to them.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Brook Lopez
PinballClemens: Brook Lopez -- The Bobcats definitely need a big man to complement their front line of Okafor, Morrison and Wallace. That is where Brook Lopez and his 7'0" - 250 lb. frame come in.
Toddler84: Danilo Gallinari-- Good investment, but might take time to adjust.
NBADraft.net: Brook Lopez
DraftExpress.com: Russell Westbrook
Chad Ford: Kevin Love -- Love's a Larry Brown type of player -- he knows how to "play the right way." Love would bring toughness, rebounding, basketball IQ and the ability to step in and contribute right now. While he doesn't have ideal size, he knows his way around the basket.
Bill Simmons: Brook Lopez -- I like this pick for them -- he plays hard, he should be able to score in the pros, he's coachable and the Larry Brown/Emeka Okafor combo should be able to protect him defensively a little.
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10th Overall: New Jersey Nets
Last Year 1st Rnd: Sean Williams, 17th
Team Needs: Shooting Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Anthony Randolph -- The Nets could go in so many directions with this pick. They are pretty much picking by default, previous picks will determine which direction the Nets will take.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Anthony Randolph
PinballClemens: Alexis Ajinca -- This Nets squad is desperate for a big man that can play the low post, score and rebound. The ideal pick would be Brook Lopez, but expect him to be gone at this point. Ajinca is a 7'0" athletic big man who is very skilled and can step in right away to contribute.
Toddler84: D.J. Augustin -- He would be a good leader in transition, he can break down D, and has a better shot than J Kidd, so why not?
NBADraft.net: Danilo Gallinari
DraftExpress.com: Eric Gordon
Chad Ford: Brook Lopez -- Lopez may have been projected too high at No. 3, but he would be a steal at this point in the draft. The Nets have been looking for a strong, scoring big man for years and Lopez really fits the bill.
Bill Simmons: Darrell Arthur -- Arthur worries me because of the whole "if he didn't try all the time in college, then why would he try all the time if he's making guaranteed money?" conundrum.
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11th Overall: Indiana Pacers
Last Year 1st Rnd: No Pick (Traded to Atlanta)
Team Needs: Guard/Center
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My Pick: D.J. Augustin -- The Pacers look like they are in line to grab D.J. Augustin as a back-up for Jamaal Tinsley.
MilwaukeeBaller32: D.J. Augustin
PinballClemens: D. J. Augustin -- Only 20 years old and plenty of basketball IQ, expect Augustin to be on Indiana's radar. Danilo Gallanari or Joe Alexander could be their other options, especially if the Pacers decide to trade away Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto as is heavily rumored.
Toddler84: Jarryd Bayless -- He's quick and has a good basketball IQ. Bayless and Augustin have similar styles and could switch spots.
NBADraft.net: Anthony Randolph
DraftExpress.com: D.J Augustin
Chad Ford: D.J. Augustin -- The Pacers have been eying two point guards -- D.J. Augustin and Russell Westbrook -- for a while. Augustin is a better floor leader than Westbrook and a better perimeter shooter, and he's more ready to step in and play right away. He should be an excellent fit for Indiana.
Bill Simmons: Jerryd Bayless -- He's not really a point guard, but he could absolutely dribble the ball upcourt and run the offense during the 40 games a year that Tinsley takes off, and I personally guarantee that he has a higher ceiling than Travis Diener.
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12th Overall: Sacramento Kings
Last Year 1st Rnd: Spencer Hawes, 10th
Team Needs: Point Guard/Power Forward
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My Pick: Roy Hibbert -- It doesn't seem like Hibbert has the skills to become the next legendary Georgetown big man, but he's got great potential. After a shaky season last year, Hibbert saw his draft stock plummet. I'd say the Kings benefit and with this pick become a legit playoff threat.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Roy Hibbert
PinballClemens: Mario Chalmers -- The Kings need to solidify their back court and Mario Chalmers looks like the man who can help. He can come in and play PG with Beno Udrih adding depth from the bench. If Danilo Gallanari is still on the board at this spot expect him to be grabbed up also.
Toddler84: Roy Hibbert -- Sac needs a center, other than Brad Miller (Mikki Moore doesn't count).
NBADraft.net: Roy Hibbert
DraftExpress.com: Anthony Randolph
Chad Ford: Mario Chalmers -- Another option for the Kings is Roy Hibbert. Like Chalmers, Hibbert wouldn't be an upside pick. But he would be able to step in right away and contribute.
Bill Simmons: Roy Hibbert -- If I were running the Kings, I'd go with Roy Hibbert here over forcing a point guard pick.
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13th Overall: Portland Trail Blazers
Last Year 1st Rnd: Greg Oden, 1st
Team Needs: Forward/Center
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My Pick: Kosta Koufos -- This might be a stretch, but the Blazers could use a back-up for Oden. If Hibbert is drafted No. 12 to Sacramento, I see the Blazers reaching for Koufos -- who had he returned to school might have been a top 5 pick a year from now.
MilwaukeeBaller32: Joe Alexander
PinballClemens: Brandon Rush -- I see the Blazers more than likely trading away this pick and to No. 15 Phoenix Suns for a trade in which they offer some of their young forwards to Phoenix and the No. 13 pick in exchange for Leandro Barbosa and the No. 15 pick. The Suns should select Brandon Rush or Mario Chalmers (if available) with this pick.
Toddler84: Brandon Rush -- Rush and Roy could feed off each other and exploit smaller match-ups.
NBADraft.net: Brandon Rush
DraftExpress.com: Alexis Ajinca
Chad Ford: Alexis Ajinca -- Ajinca is a long, athletic big man who is pretty skilled. He doesn't fill a need for the Blazers, but Pritchard loves to gather assets.
Bill Simmons: Brandon Rush
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14th Overall: Golden State Warriors
Last Year 1st Rnd: Marco Belinelli, 18th
Team Needs: Forward/Shooting Guard
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My Pick: Darrell Arthur -- The Kansas National Champ has an NBA ready game, he could have helped the Jayhawks next season's repeat attempt, but the Warriors are glad he decided to forgo his Junior year.
MilwaukeeBaller32: DeAndre Jordan
PinballClemens: Kosta Koufos -- I see the Golden State Warriors drafting the versatile big man Kosta Koufos (Ohio State) to play center in a part-time role while he bulks up. Koufos can run and gun and shoot the ball decently from mid-range. He also has some shot blocking ability. Don't be surprised if Nellie decides to trade B-Diddy and the pick for a lower pick as well if the offer is right.
Toddler84: Anthony Randolph -- His athletic ability would go well with the Warriors run-and-gun style.
NBADraft.net: Kosta Koufos
DraftExpress.com: Donte Greene
Chad Ford: Kosta Koufos -- By all accounts, Koufos has been excellent in workouts and could have become a top-five pick had he waited until 2009.
Bill Simmons: Kosta Koufos
Comments and predictions from Ford and Simmons came from ESPN.com.
Leave your predictions as a comment!
The NBA Draft is Thursday June 26th at 7pm ET
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
NBA Finals: Can Kobe Force Game 7? (6/17/08)
In order for the Boston Celtics to win its 17th NBA title in franchise history, they'll have to prevent the Lakers from pulling off something that has never been done in NBA Finals history. The Celtics return home for games six and seven, where they are 12-1 this postseason. A series win will give the Celtics a new record for most home wins in a single playoffs, breaking their tie with the 1984 Celtics and 1988 Lakers.
Fans and players both know the significance of this series. Want to see the action live from TD Banknorth Garden tonight? Get ready to pay a pretty penny. The average price of a game six ticket on StubHub is $943. Some die-hard fans on StubHub dropped $27,500 for two VIP mid-court seats. I don't know if this game can draw the most money a ticket has ever gone for on StubHub ($14,000 for MLB ASG at Yankee Stadium), but maybe a game seven ticket could.
In order to force a winner-take-all game seven, Kobe Bryant will have to will his team to victory. Bryant will have to pull of a true MVP-caliber performance. Throughout the series, Bryant really hasn't been able to do that. The Boston defense has forced Kobe to take unwanted jumpers ("bunnies" in which he has missed) or force his way to the basket picking up charges or having to make contested baskets. In game four, Bryant was scoreless in the first half, but his team was killing. During the second half he tried to take over, but only allowed the Celtics to get back into a game that the Lakers controlled with a 24 point first half lead. Bryant started game five with 15 points in the first quarter, but only managed to score 10 points after that -- resulting in Boston's two separate double-digit comebacks.
Kobe's game-clinching steal and dunk at the end of game five will help carry both the Lakers and Bryant into just the second elimination game they've had to face during the playoffs. Paul Pierce has looked the part of league MVP in the NBA Finals -- but the real league MVP needs to outshine the potential Finals MVP in game six if he wants to force a deciding game.
Kobe is an phenomenal talent and deserving of league MVP. He is very capable of leading the Lakers to a victory in both games six and seven. Through five games of the NBA Finals, Kobe has yet to be Jordan-esk. It's a game like tonight's game six where MJ would have single-handedly done whatever it took to force a game seven. And if No. 24 wants to "one-up" No. 23 -- he'll have to do his best Jordan impression over the next two games.
Despite the fact that Boston was 47-7 at home this season, Kobe and Phil have both said that this series isn't over. While there have been some wide open leads in almost every Finals game, it seems as if people have been ignoring the fact that every game has ended up under five points with three minutes to go. Also, keep in mind that Los Angeles has been able to take at least one away game in every series this postseason. If Kobe can win game six, anything can happen in game seven.
Boston leads series, 3-2.
Game Six, Tonight, 8:30 ET, ABC
Fans and players both know the significance of this series. Want to see the action live from TD Banknorth Garden tonight? Get ready to pay a pretty penny. The average price of a game six ticket on StubHub is $943. Some die-hard fans on StubHub dropped $27,500 for two VIP mid-court seats. I don't know if this game can draw the most money a ticket has ever gone for on StubHub ($14,000 for MLB ASG at Yankee Stadium), but maybe a game seven ticket could.
In order to force a winner-take-all game seven, Kobe Bryant will have to will his team to victory. Bryant will have to pull of a true MVP-caliber performance. Throughout the series, Bryant really hasn't been able to do that. The Boston defense has forced Kobe to take unwanted jumpers ("bunnies" in which he has missed) or force his way to the basket picking up charges or having to make contested baskets. In game four, Bryant was scoreless in the first half, but his team was killing. During the second half he tried to take over, but only allowed the Celtics to get back into a game that the Lakers controlled with a 24 point first half lead. Bryant started game five with 15 points in the first quarter, but only managed to score 10 points after that -- resulting in Boston's two separate double-digit comebacks.
Kobe's game-clinching steal and dunk at the end of game five will help carry both the Lakers and Bryant into just the second elimination game they've had to face during the playoffs. Paul Pierce has looked the part of league MVP in the NBA Finals -- but the real league MVP needs to outshine the potential Finals MVP in game six if he wants to force a deciding game.
Kobe is an phenomenal talent and deserving of league MVP. He is very capable of leading the Lakers to a victory in both games six and seven. Through five games of the NBA Finals, Kobe has yet to be Jordan-esk. It's a game like tonight's game six where MJ would have single-handedly done whatever it took to force a game seven. And if No. 24 wants to "one-up" No. 23 -- he'll have to do his best Jordan impression over the next two games.
Despite the fact that Boston was 47-7 at home this season, Kobe and Phil have both said that this series isn't over. While there have been some wide open leads in almost every Finals game, it seems as if people have been ignoring the fact that every game has ended up under five points with three minutes to go. Also, keep in mind that Los Angeles has been able to take at least one away game in every series this postseason. If Kobe can win game six, anything can happen in game seven.
Boston leads series, 3-2.
Game Six, Tonight, 8:30 ET, ABC
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
NBA Finals Game Three: Must-Win for L.A. (6/10/08)
Since 1969, there have been three teams to come back from an 0-2 deficit to win the NBA Finals. The last team to do it was the 2006 Miami Heat who started down 0-2 to Dallas before winning four straight. Prior to that, you have to go back to 1977 when Bill Walton's Portland Trail Blazers beat Philadelphia 4-2. Ironically, the first time a team came back down 0-2 was when the Boston Celtics took the 1969 NBA Finals in seven games over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The 0-2 deficit that the 2008 Lakers face shouldn't faze them. In 1985 the NBA changed the scheduling of the NBA Finals to allow the team with the best record to host games one, two, six and seven. Luckily for the Lakers, they'll use games three, four and five to try and regain the series lead.
Los Angeles is excited to return home where they have seen a lot of success this post season. The Lake-show has won all eight of their playoff games and haven't lost at home since March 28, giving them a blistering 13 game winning streak. Not only are the Lakers happy to return home, they know that the Celtics aren't happy about going on the road. Boston did have the best record on the road during the regular season (31-10), but they are 2-7 away from the TD Banknorth Garden this post season.
One thing for certain is that Los Angeles needs to win game three. No team has come back from a 3-0 dficit to win a playoff series, let alone the NBA Finals.
The Lakers fans are going to be all over the refs tonight based on how the calls went in games one and two. In the first two games, the Celtics have attempted 73 foul shots while the lakers have shot 38. The Lakers have been whistled for 57 personal fouls and the Celtics only 43. It doesn't mean the refs are favoring the home team, but maybe the aggressive nature that the Lakers have played with in the first two games will be tolerated a little more by the officials out on the West Coast.
Tonight's game three will be the biggest game of the series. TV ratings for the NBA Finals have been up from last year, but are still falling short of expectations -- tonight should draw a big audience.
Maybe this game three can live up to legendary game three's of the past like Jerry West's game winner in 1962 or Michael Jordan's OT comeback win on the Lakers in '91 or MJ's triple overtime thriller versus Charles Barkley in '93. Or in the most recent 0-2 NBA Finals comeback when Dwyane Wade lead an unstoppable 13 point comeback with 6:34 remaining.
It seems as if greatness rises to the occasion during game three of the NBA Finals. Maybe Kobe Bryant will have some greatness in store for us tonight. Or maybe the Celtics ignore their road woes and get one step closer to the title. We shall see, tonight at 9:00 ET on ABC.
The 0-2 deficit that the 2008 Lakers face shouldn't faze them. In 1985 the NBA changed the scheduling of the NBA Finals to allow the team with the best record to host games one, two, six and seven. Luckily for the Lakers, they'll use games three, four and five to try and regain the series lead.
Los Angeles is excited to return home where they have seen a lot of success this post season. The Lake-show has won all eight of their playoff games and haven't lost at home since March 28, giving them a blistering 13 game winning streak. Not only are the Lakers happy to return home, they know that the Celtics aren't happy about going on the road. Boston did have the best record on the road during the regular season (31-10), but they are 2-7 away from the TD Banknorth Garden this post season.
One thing for certain is that Los Angeles needs to win game three. No team has come back from a 3-0 dficit to win a playoff series, let alone the NBA Finals.
The Lakers fans are going to be all over the refs tonight based on how the calls went in games one and two. In the first two games, the Celtics have attempted 73 foul shots while the lakers have shot 38. The Lakers have been whistled for 57 personal fouls and the Celtics only 43. It doesn't mean the refs are favoring the home team, but maybe the aggressive nature that the Lakers have played with in the first two games will be tolerated a little more by the officials out on the West Coast.
Tonight's game three will be the biggest game of the series. TV ratings for the NBA Finals have been up from last year, but are still falling short of expectations -- tonight should draw a big audience.
Maybe this game three can live up to legendary game three's of the past like Jerry West's game winner in 1962 or Michael Jordan's OT comeback win on the Lakers in '91 or MJ's triple overtime thriller versus Charles Barkley in '93. Or in the most recent 0-2 NBA Finals comeback when Dwyane Wade lead an unstoppable 13 point comeback with 6:34 remaining.
It seems as if greatness rises to the occasion during game three of the NBA Finals. Maybe Kobe Bryant will have some greatness in store for us tonight. Or maybe the Celtics ignore their road woes and get one step closer to the title. We shall see, tonight at 9:00 ET on ABC.
Monday, June 9, 2008
US Open: Tiger or Phil? (6/9/08)
Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have combined to win nine times at Torrey Pines and will tee off together (with Adam Scott) for the weekday rounds of the US Open. Tiger and Phil are the field favorites, but heading into the 108th US Open, which of the world's top two players has the advantage?
Woods hasn't played in over two months since having arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on April 18 (days after the Masters), but I don't expect that to stop him from challenging for the lead on Sunday. I believe that Woods would have been able to make a return earlier if he really needed the FedExCup points or the money, but we all know that he needs neither (first in points, billionaire). But the real reason he's ready to play is because no one loves Torrey Pines more than Tiger -- having won six of his past 11 starts, including four in a row.
Mickelson has been able to capture three wins and six other top 10 finishes at Torrey Pines and given that Tiger isn't 100%, Mickelson could take advantage this weekend. A head-to-head pairing with Woods would normally make a golfer cringe, but not Mickelson. The last time that these two battled together in a big event was at the 2007 Deutsche Bank Championship where Mickelson walked off with the trophy. Unlike Tiger, Mickelson has been playing and playing well. He won the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial three weeks ago and not to mention the fact that Phil has a house in San Diego and has been known to be a frequent guest of the US Open course over the last few months. Many experts feel that Mickelson, not Woods, knows this course best.
Woods, Mickelson and Scott (Ranked 1-2-3 in the world) will play the first two rounds together. The only time Woods and Mickelson played together early in a major was the PGA Championship two years ago due to tradition. The PGA Championship always puts together the three major champions of the year (Mickelson won the Masters, Woods the British and Ogilvy the U.S. Open).
Maybe Tiger and Phil won't be competing with each other, but rather competing against the course. In what is thought to prevent a regular man from shooting under 100, a US Open course is set-up to give even the world's best players a pounding headache. Golfers will face firmer ground, narrower fairways, higher rough and faster greens than they did at the tour's Buick Invitation hosted on the same course back in January.
Mickelson recently played the Open version of the course and declared it the "hardest course in the world," predicting that the winning score won't even be close to par. Mickelson has been the US Open runner-up four times, while Woods as won twice and finished second twice. "On paper, either Tiger or Phil should win the US Open," said Steve Stricker. "But they could feel more pressure because of their success there. It will be interesting to see how they do."
You might be thinking, where is the love for the field? Am I just ignoring the possibility that Scott, Jim Furyk, Vijay Singh, Steve Stricker, Geoff Ogilvy or anyone else couldn't outlast the great Tiger Woods or improbable Phil Mickelson? Or what about Sergio "Best Player Never to Have Won a Major" Garcia, isn't he due?
Well, I understand the thought that it could be someone other than the big two, but how can you bet against either Woods or Mickelson hoisting the trophy? "I think that on Sunday, both [Tiger and I] will have a chance," Mickelson said.
I realize that Woods hasn't won this major since 2002 and his knee might enough of a concern to hold him back. I also realize that Mickelson has never won this major and that his last two outings have been disastrous (Winged Foot in 2006, MC at Oakmont last year).
But just look at Tiger's track record on this course. We all know that if he gets an early lead -- the rest of the field will be thinking, "Here we go again." And Mickelson has motivation coming from the hometown crowd not to mention he's playing well coming into the event. As an avid follower of the PGA Tour, I'm under the impression that toughest competitors show up on the toughest courses -- in this case for this course it's of course Tiger and Phil.
I'm picking Phil Mickelson to win the 2008 US Open. I've given Mickelson the advantage because he knows the course and has the desire to win his first US Open.
So I ask you, which player has the advantage? Tiger or Phil?
Woods hasn't played in over two months since having arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on April 18 (days after the Masters), but I don't expect that to stop him from challenging for the lead on Sunday. I believe that Woods would have been able to make a return earlier if he really needed the FedExCup points or the money, but we all know that he needs neither (first in points, billionaire). But the real reason he's ready to play is because no one loves Torrey Pines more than Tiger -- having won six of his past 11 starts, including four in a row.
Mickelson has been able to capture three wins and six other top 10 finishes at Torrey Pines and given that Tiger isn't 100%, Mickelson could take advantage this weekend. A head-to-head pairing with Woods would normally make a golfer cringe, but not Mickelson. The last time that these two battled together in a big event was at the 2007 Deutsche Bank Championship where Mickelson walked off with the trophy. Unlike Tiger, Mickelson has been playing and playing well. He won the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial three weeks ago and not to mention the fact that Phil has a house in San Diego and has been known to be a frequent guest of the US Open course over the last few months. Many experts feel that Mickelson, not Woods, knows this course best.
Woods, Mickelson and Scott (Ranked 1-2-3 in the world) will play the first two rounds together. The only time Woods and Mickelson played together early in a major was the PGA Championship two years ago due to tradition. The PGA Championship always puts together the three major champions of the year (Mickelson won the Masters, Woods the British and Ogilvy the U.S. Open).
Maybe Tiger and Phil won't be competing with each other, but rather competing against the course. In what is thought to prevent a regular man from shooting under 100, a US Open course is set-up to give even the world's best players a pounding headache. Golfers will face firmer ground, narrower fairways, higher rough and faster greens than they did at the tour's Buick Invitation hosted on the same course back in January.
Mickelson recently played the Open version of the course and declared it the "hardest course in the world," predicting that the winning score won't even be close to par. Mickelson has been the US Open runner-up four times, while Woods as won twice and finished second twice. "On paper, either Tiger or Phil should win the US Open," said Steve Stricker. "But they could feel more pressure because of their success there. It will be interesting to see how they do."
You might be thinking, where is the love for the field? Am I just ignoring the possibility that Scott, Jim Furyk, Vijay Singh, Steve Stricker, Geoff Ogilvy or anyone else couldn't outlast the great Tiger Woods or improbable Phil Mickelson? Or what about Sergio "Best Player Never to Have Won a Major" Garcia, isn't he due?
Well, I understand the thought that it could be someone other than the big two, but how can you bet against either Woods or Mickelson hoisting the trophy? "I think that on Sunday, both [Tiger and I] will have a chance," Mickelson said.
I realize that Woods hasn't won this major since 2002 and his knee might enough of a concern to hold him back. I also realize that Mickelson has never won this major and that his last two outings have been disastrous (Winged Foot in 2006, MC at Oakmont last year).
But just look at Tiger's track record on this course. We all know that if he gets an early lead -- the rest of the field will be thinking, "Here we go again." And Mickelson has motivation coming from the hometown crowd not to mention he's playing well coming into the event. As an avid follower of the PGA Tour, I'm under the impression that toughest competitors show up on the toughest courses -- in this case for this course it's of course Tiger and Phil.
I'm picking Phil Mickelson to win the 2008 US Open. I've given Mickelson the advantage because he knows the course and has the desire to win his first US Open.
So I ask you, which player has the advantage? Tiger or Phil?
Thursday, June 5, 2008
NBA Finals: Boston or L.A., who do you got? (6/5/08)
The Lakers and Celtics tip off the NBA Finals Thursday night and there couldn't be a more exciting match-up. Kevin Garnett makes his NBA Finals debut. Kobe Bryant is the first regular season MVP to play in the Finals since Tim Duncan in '03 and he's leading the Lakers to their fifth Finals appearance this decade. And not since 2000 have the top seeds in both conferences squared off in the Finals. After a seven game series the NBA will crown a true league champion.
As much as Kobe Bryant could easily will his team to victory, I have to keep my money in KG's corner.
My Winner: Celtics in 7
My MVP: Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett makes the most of his first opportunity in the NBA finals by winning and becoming MVP. Garnett will take his game to another level, match Kobe and his supporting cast will be the difference. Paul Gasol and Lamar Odom are great players and make Kobe's big three tougher than every big three in the NBA, except for Boston's. Paul Pierce and Ray Allen cause match-up problems for the Lakers on defense. Who will guard Kobe has been the big question, but a better question might be: Who will guard Paul Pierce?
The Lakers need Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol to do for Kobe what Allen and Pierce do for Kevin if the Lakers want come away a winner. The concept of team will be a big factor in why Boston outlasts Los Angeles. Having trust in your teammates is huge in the NBA Finals and as much as Kobe claims his teammates are his friends, KG's locker room seems to have the real friendships.
Larry Bird used Robert Parrish and Kevin McHale to help him win three NBA title in five Finals appearances. In Bird's Finals debut he produced what Red Auerbach called, "the greatest play I ever saw". In his first ever Finals game, Bird tracked down his own rebound and laid it in all in one fluid motion. Garnett hopes to follow in Bird's footsteps by becoming a champion in his first try and making an impact right away.
Michael Jordan was unsuccessful on his first try for a ring, but KG isn't trying to be Jordan -- while Kobe might be. Jordan used the services of Scotte Pippen and Horace Grant to win six NBA titles. Bryant is looking to add another three to his resume, if not more, with a more gaudy supporting cast. If Bryant wins the MVP of the NBA Finals, then goes on to capture gold in the Olympics -- he'd be the first to do it since Jordan.
Why did I choose Boston? Well, as I write I'm still questioning my decision from above. If LA is able to steal game one or two and Boston doesn't win game three, than LA's game one or two win will be like a game five win. Boston almost needs to go up 2-0 or they'll be in trouble. It's not even about the home court thing, it's actually just that Boston doesn't want to be put in the position of having to win either 2/3 in LA (to regain home court) or be forced to win 2/2 in BOS in games six and seven. As much as both team's could win every game at home, I don't see it that way.
I think that KG steals game four or five and Kobe wins game six -- forcing a winner take all game seven. KG finally has an offensive outburst and leads the Celtics to a games seven blow-out victory with 45 points, 17 rebounds and 10 assists.
I've debated with so many people over the outcome and gone over so many scenarios. I asked around to a few of PROTRADE's brightest NBA minds about who they thought will win the NBA Finals, here is what I got:
What does dmgeist think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
Game 1 will go to the Celtics playing on their home court and with the emotion of the home crowd.
Game 2 will go to the Lakers who will make the necessary adjustments on D and this is where I think the coaching will make a difference and Phil Jackson will out coach Doc Rivers.
Game 3 will go to the Lakers who will continue to roll on their home court.
I see the Celtics winning game 4 and evening the series but after that it will be all Lakers in Games 5 and 6.
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I don't see the Celtics being able to guard him, they may stop him a game or two but I see Kobe going off in this series. After the Lakers win this NBA Title they better send Thank you cards to the Utah Jazz for Derek Fisher and the Memphis Grizzlies for Pau Gasol. I think Kobe will be glad he was in LA this season after all. I just hope that I don't have to hear Randy Newman sing I LOVE LA!!!! WE LOVE IT!!
What does DCG_Moo think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I've been quoted as claiming Lakers over Boston in 6... and I haven't seen anything yet to deviate from that belief. A L.A. win almost certainly means a Kobe MVP trophy. As for why? Chalk it up to experience, both playing and coaching... Kobe may get the Finals MVP trophy, but the real reason the Lakers win will be Derek Fisher, Phil Jackson and the use of the bench.
What does Halbeezie think?
Winner: Kobe in 5
MVP: RonnyTuriaf....kidding. Kobe.
Why? Because it's Kobe and Boston doesn't have Kobe. In all seriousness, this reminds me of '04 when the Pistons took on the Lakers. As good as LA has been, Boston has the glitz and the flashy names. Sheed called them "team NBA" and that seems to fit quite perfect. I think Kobe SHOULD be the underdog coming in and I think Kobe will enjoy that role. Split in Boston. Three Straight in LA. Ball game.
What does Utkman think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I hate the Lakers, but they seem to be the more consistent team. They have only had one game (Game 3 at San Antonio) where they weren't in the game. Boston on the other hand seems to forget what they are doing at times. I think for all of this LA-Boston hype, we may see some lop-sided games without a lot of drama.
What does Tug313 think?
Winner: Celtics in 6
MVP: Paul Pierce
Why? Bostons D gives up only 90.3 pts per game, while Lakers score 108.3 per game. I'm expecting the Celtics to make it a very physical, low scoring series. Should be fun to watch.
What does Silverminers think?
Winner: Boston in 6
MVP: Paul Pierce
Why? Boston's defense is too good. We all know Defense wins championships.
What does meatwadzero think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I guess I changed my mind because I hate my brain. I was thinking Celtics, but who is going to guard Kobe? Dave Cowens? Dino Radja? [Insert past Celtics player here]? Plus, Pau and Odom are passing out of their minds. Too much ball movement, too much speed, too much Turiaf antics. This one is LA's.
What does Ryangene think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? The bottom line is that Kobe Bryant is playing incredible ball right now and can't be defended. The Spurs' Bruce Bowen was draped all over him throughout the series and Kobe still found ways to score. Too much playoff experience for the Lakers here as Derek Fisher is going to come up huge in this series.
What does ChuckDiesel think?
Winner: Celtics in 7
MVP: Kevin Garnett - Pierce will deserve it more, but the media will give it to KG.
Why? People seem to think the Lakers bench has it all over the Celtics bench. I think it's more even than they realize as a whole, and the way it plays into the series, I think it works to the Celtics advantage. Sure, Farmar and Vujacic are better than House and Cassell, but how much is Derek Fisher going to exploit the backups? Luke Walton is a decent offensive player, but are they really going to let him guard Pierce? And is Turiaf really more productive than PJ Brown, Leon Powe, and Glen Davis (in that order)? I don't think so. When the Celtics have the ball, Kobe will be guarding Pierce or Allen, and whoever he doesn't cover will have a big mismatch. It'll be up to Allen to shoot like he has in the last few games. When the Lakers have the ball, it'll be up to Kobe to show the patience he showed in the Spurs series. He will have to give up the ball and his teammates will have to make shots. When Lebron beat the Celtics, he averaged 19.7 shots per game, 4.3 from 3-pt range. When he lost to them, James averaged 24 shots pg, 6.5 from 3. Similarly, in the two games the Celts and Lakers have played, Kobe took 13 total shots from 3, making only 4. The Celtics like those odds.
The Finals start Thursday at 8:30 ET on ABC -- Game one winners have gone on to win the series 18 of 24 times since 1984.
So, Los Angeles or Boston, who do you got?
As much as Kobe Bryant could easily will his team to victory, I have to keep my money in KG's corner.
My Winner: Celtics in 7
My MVP: Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett makes the most of his first opportunity in the NBA finals by winning and becoming MVP. Garnett will take his game to another level, match Kobe and his supporting cast will be the difference. Paul Gasol and Lamar Odom are great players and make Kobe's big three tougher than every big three in the NBA, except for Boston's. Paul Pierce and Ray Allen cause match-up problems for the Lakers on defense. Who will guard Kobe has been the big question, but a better question might be: Who will guard Paul Pierce?
The Lakers need Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol to do for Kobe what Allen and Pierce do for Kevin if the Lakers want come away a winner. The concept of team will be a big factor in why Boston outlasts Los Angeles. Having trust in your teammates is huge in the NBA Finals and as much as Kobe claims his teammates are his friends, KG's locker room seems to have the real friendships.
Larry Bird used Robert Parrish and Kevin McHale to help him win three NBA title in five Finals appearances. In Bird's Finals debut he produced what Red Auerbach called, "the greatest play I ever saw". In his first ever Finals game, Bird tracked down his own rebound and laid it in all in one fluid motion. Garnett hopes to follow in Bird's footsteps by becoming a champion in his first try and making an impact right away.
Michael Jordan was unsuccessful on his first try for a ring, but KG isn't trying to be Jordan -- while Kobe might be. Jordan used the services of Scotte Pippen and Horace Grant to win six NBA titles. Bryant is looking to add another three to his resume, if not more, with a more gaudy supporting cast. If Bryant wins the MVP of the NBA Finals, then goes on to capture gold in the Olympics -- he'd be the first to do it since Jordan.
Why did I choose Boston? Well, as I write I'm still questioning my decision from above. If LA is able to steal game one or two and Boston doesn't win game three, than LA's game one or two win will be like a game five win. Boston almost needs to go up 2-0 or they'll be in trouble. It's not even about the home court thing, it's actually just that Boston doesn't want to be put in the position of having to win either 2/3 in LA (to regain home court) or be forced to win 2/2 in BOS in games six and seven. As much as both team's could win every game at home, I don't see it that way.
I think that KG steals game four or five and Kobe wins game six -- forcing a winner take all game seven. KG finally has an offensive outburst and leads the Celtics to a games seven blow-out victory with 45 points, 17 rebounds and 10 assists.
I've debated with so many people over the outcome and gone over so many scenarios. I asked around to a few of PROTRADE's brightest NBA minds about who they thought will win the NBA Finals, here is what I got:
What does dmgeist think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
Game 1 will go to the Celtics playing on their home court and with the emotion of the home crowd.
Game 2 will go to the Lakers who will make the necessary adjustments on D and this is where I think the coaching will make a difference and Phil Jackson will out coach Doc Rivers.
Game 3 will go to the Lakers who will continue to roll on their home court.
I see the Celtics winning game 4 and evening the series but after that it will be all Lakers in Games 5 and 6.
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I don't see the Celtics being able to guard him, they may stop him a game or two but I see Kobe going off in this series. After the Lakers win this NBA Title they better send Thank you cards to the Utah Jazz for Derek Fisher and the Memphis Grizzlies for Pau Gasol. I think Kobe will be glad he was in LA this season after all. I just hope that I don't have to hear Randy Newman sing I LOVE LA!!!! WE LOVE IT!!
What does DCG_Moo think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I've been quoted as claiming Lakers over Boston in 6... and I haven't seen anything yet to deviate from that belief. A L.A. win almost certainly means a Kobe MVP trophy. As for why? Chalk it up to experience, both playing and coaching... Kobe may get the Finals MVP trophy, but the real reason the Lakers win will be Derek Fisher, Phil Jackson and the use of the bench.
What does Halbeezie think?
Winner: Kobe in 5
MVP: RonnyTuriaf....kidding. Kobe.
Why? Because it's Kobe and Boston doesn't have Kobe. In all seriousness, this reminds me of '04 when the Pistons took on the Lakers. As good as LA has been, Boston has the glitz and the flashy names. Sheed called them "team NBA" and that seems to fit quite perfect. I think Kobe SHOULD be the underdog coming in and I think Kobe will enjoy that role. Split in Boston. Three Straight in LA. Ball game.
What does Utkman think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I hate the Lakers, but they seem to be the more consistent team. They have only had one game (Game 3 at San Antonio) where they weren't in the game. Boston on the other hand seems to forget what they are doing at times. I think for all of this LA-Boston hype, we may see some lop-sided games without a lot of drama.
What does Tug313 think?
Winner: Celtics in 6
MVP: Paul Pierce
Why? Bostons D gives up only 90.3 pts per game, while Lakers score 108.3 per game. I'm expecting the Celtics to make it a very physical, low scoring series. Should be fun to watch.
What does Silverminers think?
Winner: Boston in 6
MVP: Paul Pierce
Why? Boston's defense is too good. We all know Defense wins championships.
What does meatwadzero think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? I guess I changed my mind because I hate my brain. I was thinking Celtics, but who is going to guard Kobe? Dave Cowens? Dino Radja? [Insert past Celtics player here]? Plus, Pau and Odom are passing out of their minds. Too much ball movement, too much speed, too much Turiaf antics. This one is LA's.
What does Ryangene think?
Winner: Lakers in 6
MVP: Kobe Bryant
Why? The bottom line is that Kobe Bryant is playing incredible ball right now and can't be defended. The Spurs' Bruce Bowen was draped all over him throughout the series and Kobe still found ways to score. Too much playoff experience for the Lakers here as Derek Fisher is going to come up huge in this series.
What does ChuckDiesel think?
Winner: Celtics in 7
MVP: Kevin Garnett - Pierce will deserve it more, but the media will give it to KG.
Why? People seem to think the Lakers bench has it all over the Celtics bench. I think it's more even than they realize as a whole, and the way it plays into the series, I think it works to the Celtics advantage. Sure, Farmar and Vujacic are better than House and Cassell, but how much is Derek Fisher going to exploit the backups? Luke Walton is a decent offensive player, but are they really going to let him guard Pierce? And is Turiaf really more productive than PJ Brown, Leon Powe, and Glen Davis (in that order)? I don't think so. When the Celtics have the ball, Kobe will be guarding Pierce or Allen, and whoever he doesn't cover will have a big mismatch. It'll be up to Allen to shoot like he has in the last few games. When the Lakers have the ball, it'll be up to Kobe to show the patience he showed in the Spurs series. He will have to give up the ball and his teammates will have to make shots. When Lebron beat the Celtics, he averaged 19.7 shots per game, 4.3 from 3-pt range. When he lost to them, James averaged 24 shots pg, 6.5 from 3. Similarly, in the two games the Celts and Lakers have played, Kobe took 13 total shots from 3, making only 4. The Celtics like those odds.
The Finals start Thursday at 8:30 ET on ABC -- Game one winners have gone on to win the series 18 of 24 times since 1984.
So, Los Angeles or Boston, who do you got?
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