RU's 2009 NBA Mock Draft - Version 1.1

Made a couple of minor updates and got a sexy new graphic from our pal's at Welcome To Loud City. This is perfect now. Trust me.
Here is Ridiculous Upside's 2009 Mock draft, version 1.01, as the lottery in late May will certainly bring some changes, and we'll have updates before (like 4 hours later after a few minor changes led to some major re-shuffling). This is all based on our newest writer, Steven Neff's, instincts so far, along with minor modifications by myself and Jon L. We don't know yet who is putting their name in the draft for good so expect some of these players to go back to college. As always, check out our Guide To Mock Drafts to answer any questions before any flambéing occurs. After the jump we provide brief analysis on all 30 picks!
Also, any issues? Leave feedback in the comments!
| Pick | Team | Selection |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sacramento Kings | Blake Griffin |
| 2 | Washington Wizards | Ricky Rubio |
| 3 | Los Angeles Clippers | Hasheem Thabeet |
| 4 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Jordan Hill |
| 5 | Minnesota Timberwolves | James Harden |
| 6 | Memphis Grizzlies | Tyreke Evans |
| 7 | Golden State Warriors | Brandon Jennings |
| 8 | New York Knicks | Ty Lawson |
| 9 | Toronto Raptors | Demar DeRozan |
| 10 | Milwaukee Bucks | Earl Clark |
| 11 | New Jersey Nets | James Johnson |
| 12 | Charlotte Bobcats | Gerald Henderson |
| 13 | Indiana Pacers | Stephen Curry |
| 14 | Phoenix Suns | Jonny Flynn |
| 15 | Detroit Pistons | Jrue Holiday |
| 16 | Chicago Bulls | DeJuan Blair |
| 17 | Philadelphia 76ers | Jeff Teague |
| 18 | Minnesota Timberwolves | Eric Maynor |
| 19 | Atlanta Hawks | Patty Mills |
| 20 | Utah Jazz | Darren Collison |
| 21 | New Orleans Hornets | Sam Young |
| 22 | Dallas Mavericks | B.J. Mullens |
| 23 | Sacramento Kings | Chase Budinger |
| 24 | Portland Trailblazers | Patrick Patterson |
| 25 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Tyler Hansborough |
| 26 | Chicago Bulls | Wayne Ellington |
| 27 | Memphis Grizzlies | Gani Lawal |
| 28 | Minnesota Timberwolves | Jarvis Varnado |
| 29 | Los Angeles Lakers | Terrence Williams |
| 30 | Cleveland Cavaliers |
Austin Daye |

1. Kings - Blake Griffin PF (Oklahoma Sophomore)
Griffin is a complete monster, shown via his domination of all things college basketball, including the ladies. He will be the Rookie of the Year next year and will probably average around 16 points and 8 rebounds a game next year. Griffin, if paired with Kevin Martin, would wreak havoc on the NBA for many years, eventually getting the Kings back to the playoffs if they get better pieces around them. NBA Comparison: Carlos Boozer
2. Wizards - Ricky Rubio PG (DKV Joventut)
Rubio was already getting hyped when he was 14 years old. After a solid Olympic performance with Team Spain, scouts are still in love with him. The Wizards need a big guy but would not/could not pass up Rubio. He's young, gifted and a true point guard (and I think this means he's marketable!). NBA: Steve Nash
3. Clippers - Hasheem Thabeet C (UCONN Junior)
Thabeet is a rare player, a 7'3 center who blocks everything. Just his presence makes players flinch and blow easy lay-ups. He also can hit a 15-foot jump shot and is not a horrible FT shooter for a player of his size. He would definitely help the Clippers with their interior defense alongside Camby if they're able to trade Kaman this summer. If not, this pick will switch pre-draft. NBA: Dikembe Mutumbo
4. Thunder - Jordan Hill PF (Arizona Junior)
Hill is big, strong, athletic and willing to pound the glass and defend the post - you will have a man crush on him soon. He averaged 18 points and 11 rebounds per game this past season at Arizona - double-double's in college aren't easy to come by. The Thunder need young bigs and Hill would be a nice addition to the team, improving their low post game. My favorite part? He says himself he has "Ridiculous" Upside. NBA: Al Horford
5. Timberwolves - James Harden SG (Arizona State Sophomore)
He is not the best athlete in the draft - he plays more like a crafty vet with high basketball IQ and strong fundamentals. Harden is not as good as Mayo was coming out, but he will be a good backcourt mate for Randy Foye starter in place of Randy Foye in Minnesota. NBA: Joe Johnson
6. Grizzlies - Tyreke Evans G (Memphis Freshman)
Evans is Neff's favorite player in this draft - "He could end up being the best player when we look back in hindsight." The combination of Evans, Mayo and Gay could get the Grizzlies to the playoffs next year. It sounds crazy but they have cap room and those three would compete with any team in terms of big three, plus they're loaded with potential. NBA: To Be Decided
7. Warriors - Brandon Jennings PG (Lottomatica Roma, Italy)
Jennings was rated by some people as the #1 player in the class of 2008. He has tons of talent, but ended up in Italy after his grades didn't live to Arizona's standards. He didn't do anything special in Europe, but we think he'll be a better NBA player. The Warriors play fast and Jennings just seems like he belongs in Oakland. NBA: Allen Iverson
8. Knicks - Ty Lawson PG (UNC Junior)
Mike D'antoni wants to play at high speeds and no one knows how to play fastbetter than Lawson. He's the type of point D'antoni likes - perfect for the Knicks NBA: T.J. Ford
9. Raptors - Demar DoRozan SG (USC Freshman)
DeRozan is a pure scorer, as he can hit from deep or remind you of Vince Carter with his finishes at the rim. He was the best Freshman coming and improved at USC as the season wore on. Could he one day evolve into the 2nd coming of Vince Carter for the Raptors? If he can find some handles and bring some defense, the Raptors will be getting a steal. NBA: Vince Carter
10. Bucks - Earl Clark SF/PF (Louisville Junior)
The Bucks might need a point guard here but I expect them to re-sign former D-Leaguer Ramon Sessions. Bucks need bigger forwards and Clark can't quite fill that bill, but there won't be much drop off from what they have, allowing them to let Charlie Villanueva and his halftime tweets walk. NBA: Al Harrington
11. Nets - James Johnson SF (Wake Forest Sophomore)
The Nets need a small forward - nothing has worked out since signing former D-Leaguer Bobby Simmons to A LARGE NBA contract. He is versatile and can really score. He has a big body and will be able to help the young Nets right away. NBA: More athletic Andres Nocioni? He baffles us
12. Bobcats - Gerald Henderson SG (Duke Junior)
IceManCometh's man crush will do well in the NBA. He has the skills that NBA teams covet and plays great defense. He should be able to push the Bobcats into their first playoff appearance. NBA: Latrell Sprewell, minus the crazy and yachts (wait.. Spree is already minus the yacht, so just the crazy)
13. Pacers - Stephen Curry PG/SG (Davidson Junior)
The Pacers and Jim O'Brien love shooters. Curry is going to be a scorer in the NBA. He is going to come into the NBA and hit shots. His only major downfall is that he is undersized which we think will make him fall in the draft a bit.. NBA: Mike Bibby
14. Suns - Jonny Flynn PG (Syracuse Sophomore)
A good replacement for Steve Nash. He literally has ridiculous upside and can be a stud in this league. The only thing that worries us is his shooting. NBA: Damon Stoudamire
15. Pistons - Jrue Holiday PG/SG (UCLA Freshman)
The Pistons are starting to fall apart. Don't be surprised if Prince, Hamilton and Rasheed are not on the team next year. The combination of Holliday and Rodney Stuckey would be a good foundation to build on - and definitely fun to watch. NBA: Stuckeyesque right now, but has lots of room to develop into his own.
16. Bulls - DeJuan Blair PF (Pitt Sophomore)
Blair is a beast that will contribute in the NBA. He might need to lose some weight but people do not like to play against him - he'll seriously beat you up. The Bulls will benefit from his football build in the paint, as he'll make some room form himself to score. NBA: John Millsap (Disclaimer: I hate DeJuan Blair in the NBA. This is not my pick. I don't know who it'd be but, anyone but Blair would suffice)
17. Sixers - Jeff Teague PG (Wake Forest Sophomore)
Andre Miller's contract is up and it doesn't seem like he'll be back. Teague would have been a lottery pick earlier in the year - the Sixers are getting a steal as a replacement for Miller. Teague is very athletic and fun to watch - scorer first, but learning to be a distributor. NBA: Russell Westbrook
18. Wolves (Heat) - Eric Maynor PG (VCU Senior)
He's crafty and has good size at the point. Steady leader who is best in the fourth quarter. Randy Foye is not a PG so they will look to draft and develop one like Maynor. NBA: Antonio Daniels
19. Hawks - Patty Mills PG (St. Mary's Sophomore)
Acie Law has been a bust and Bibby is on the decline and a free agent. Mills is speedy as they come, though we're not quite sure that's the Hawks thing after leaving Speedy Claxton on the bench to rot. Regardless, his NBA stock has been improving every day since the Olympics. NBA: Russell Westbrook
20. Jazz - Darren Collison PG (UCLA Senior)
We all know that Jerry Sloan hates his rookies. Collison could grow on him however, as he's been a starter for about 23 years in the UCLA offense. Sloan loves him some depth at the point, and Collison can definitely give him that. This could be a big man if they think any of their free agents will leave. NBA: Chris Duhon
21. Hornets - Sam Young SF (Pitt Senior)
Young didn't get much pub this season for Pitt, but he should end up being their best NBA player. He can play offense, but is probably a better defender, which should help the struggling Hornets out right away - as a Posey replacement? NBA: James Posey
22. Mavericks - B.J. Mullens C (Ohio State Freshman)
Mullens is a long way way from contributing in the NBA. He is big and young though and can develop if he puts in work. NBA: A new (and improved?) Patrick O'Bryant
23. Kings (Rockets) - Austin Daye SF/PF (Gonzaga Freshman)
He's got the skillset that should make him a first round choice. Unfortunately, his stock has been falling consistently since the McDonald's All-American Game. Inconsistent motor, but don't write him offf. NBA: Luke Walton
24. Blazers - Patrick Patterson PF (Kentucky Sophomore)
Good low post skills and can really finish, though he's undersized. Patterson would be a steal for the Blazers if he falls this far. NBA: Jason Maxiell
25. Thunder (Spurs)- Tyler Hansbrough PF (UNC Senior)
Would be another great piece for this up and coming team. His hustle would make him a crowd favorite in Oklahoma. Dude's a man. NBA: David Lee
26. Bulls (Nuggets) - Wayne Ellington SG (UNC Junior)
Ellington can shoot the basketball for a living. He's got ice in his veins. Ideally, he'll fill the Ben Gordon role, minus the shot creating madness that Gordon ocassionally decides he can do. NBA: Cuttino Mobley
27. Grizzlies (Magic) - Gani Lawal PF (Georgia Tech Senior)
Lawal has a great motor, he's a great finisher and anticipates rebounds very well. He didn't get much love this season nationally, but he can be the late bloomer we've all come to know and love. NBA: Tyrus Thomas
28. Wolves (Celtics) - Jarvis Varnado PF (Mississippi State Junior)
The Wolves have good scoring big men in Kevin Love and Al Jefferson, but those guys don't play much defense. Varnado was the best shot blocker in college and can be a backup who comes in and is a force on defense. NBA: Theo Ratliff
29. Lakers - Terrence Williams SF (Louisville)
Williams is a slasher and extremely athletic. His problem is he can't shoot which will make him fall in the draft. He will be a good backup for the Lakers and play solid defense off the bench. NBA: To Be Determined
30. Cavs - Chase Budinger SF (Arizona Junior)
Daye could easily be a lottery pick because of his size and skill set for such a big player. I just don't think he is ready yet for the NBA and needs to add some weight and another year of seasoning at Gonzaga. If he stays in, somebody will take a flyer on him, and probably higher than this. NBA: Lengthier Marcus Williams
On the Bubble of 1st round: Nick Calathes, Omri Casspi, Derrick Brown, Marcus Thornton, DaJuan Summers
For a complete database of NBA mock drafts, check out DC Pro Sports Report's NBA Mock Draft Database.
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My only problem with this
And that’s speaking to totally not criticize is that Wayne Ellington is way too high. He’s closer to a 2nd round pick then he is being picked at #14. The Pacers will try to get either a PF or one of the many point guards currently available.
by hkf on
Apr 30, 2025 2:39 PM EDT
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I initially thought Ellington was a bit high as well...
But then noticed that NBADraft.net has him going 11… Depends on the workouts, I’d guess, but I think he’d be in the discussion there..
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 2:44 PM EDT
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Wayne Ellington is a 1st round pick no doubt
The guy can flat out shoot and I felt UNC did not get him the ball enough during the year. The Pacers are a tough team to predict because I’m not sure what they need. I don’t think they would draft a big man because they have Foster, Murphy and Hibbert for 2 more years. I could see them taking a PG but expect the Pacers pick to change alot in our mock drafts until we hear what they are looking for. Remember Jim O’Brien and Larry Bird love shooters.
by stneff70 on
Apr 30, 2025 2:53 PM EDT
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They also took Brandon Rush last year....
two sweet shooting SG’s in back to back drafts? Granted with Rush’s size he could play the 3 occassionally, but that may eat too much into Granger’s minutes. Ellington is tough to call. He answered many questions in the NCAA tourney this year, but I’m not sure he made his draft status that much clearer. I could see him and Henderson in similar roles in this draft…they both could go anywhere from the Top 10-Top 30. Those workouts will be key for both these guys.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 3:05 PM EDT
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Yes, but Ellington is not going #14
That’s too high.
by hkf on
Apr 30, 2025 3:00 PM EDT
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Thanks for the constructive feedback.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 3:10 PM EDT
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Not sure how I feel about Budinger in the top 20
I thought he was a 2nd round lock. But that may speak more to the strength of this draft than anything else. I could also see the Jazz loving them some Budinger.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 3:08 PM EDT
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I think it might be strength of this draft
I really don’t know who else would fit with Utah.. If only he played football…
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 3:15 PM EDT
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Iceman, how do you feel about G going to the Bobcats? On one hand, he would still be in your vicinity. On the other hand, he’s going to the Tarheels NBA affiliate.
by TorosGirl on
Apr 30, 2025 3:18 PM EDT
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I don't like it at all.
Since I live in NC, it’s been really easy hating the Bobcats and their draft choices thus far. Felton, May, Morrison. Those guys suck. At least to me. But if Hendo ends up there, I don’t know what I’ll do. It’s like my friend who is a die hard Maryland and Orlando Magic fan. Then JJ Redick got drafted by Orlando…..and he didn’t sleep for weeks. I think that draft forced my friend into a nasty drinking habit.
G to the Bobcats may do the same to me.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 3:27 PM EDT
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I figured as much. Hopefully that’s not where he ends up.
by TorosGirl on
Apr 30, 2025 3:33 PM EDT
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I'm hoping for the Knicks, Nets, or Pistons
as those franchises are the least screwed up in the 8-15 range.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:04 PM EDT
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Where do you want him to go TorosGirl?
I’m still sad we won’t have him next year.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 6:09 PM EDT
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In the dream world I live in, he’d stay at Duke. As far as the NBA, I really don’t have a specific team in mind, just somewhere where he’ll be happy and successful.
by TorosGirl on
Apr 30, 2025 6:17 PM EDT
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Agreed....
preferably not the B-cats and the Timberwolves.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 9:56 PM EDT
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Why no TWolves?
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 10:00 PM EDT
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Has that franchise ever been anything but a blackhole?
Not really.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 10:01 PM EDT
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Bucks/Clark
The lack of true PFs scares me about this draft…Clark just looks too similar positionally to Mbah a Moute and Alexander—athletic 3s with enough size to play some 4, but hardly the bruising PF the Bucks have lacked.
by Frank Madden on
Apr 30, 2025 4:13 PM EDT
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True
I can’t disagree with you on that point, but do you really try filling another need at that spot? Point guard maybe, but is a backup at the 10 spot worth it?
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 4:16 PM EDT
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If the Bucks are dying for a Bruiser...
the can always try to trade down for Blair. Although I’m not sure that’ll work out well in the end.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:19 PM EDT
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Thought about that too
But like you said, that can’t turn out well… Unless it’s in the 22 and beyond range..
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 4:24 PM EDT
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Yeah....
it’s either that or take BJ mullins, and stash him away somewhere until he can actually grow more than 6 mustache hairs. Oh and do anything besides dunk and board.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:26 PM EDT
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At 10!?
Ugh. Notorious P.O.B. comparison would be spot on then. Except no Bakersfield to stash Mullens like O’Bryant was..
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 4:29 PM EDT
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God No.....
I mean trade down for him…..like firesale trading for that pick. They’d have to trade into the non-existent 3rd round for that. I’m pretty BJ should change his name to Patrick O’Stiffsmagoo.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:31 PM EDT
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They could
trade for Boozer. The Jazz (at least the fans) would be willing to agree to a deal centered around Bogut or Redd or someone
True Blue Jazz
RIP Nick Adenhart. 4/9/09
by UtesFan89 on
Apr 30, 2025 4:51 PM EDT
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Poor Boozer...
Milwaulkee….ouch.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:56 PM EDT
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Let's make this happen
Frank, what do you think? Who can you trade?
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 4:58 PM EDT
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This is a Guard draft plain and simple
There are not many good big men in this draft. There are plenty of guards but I agree with you Frank that they need more of a banger but I see them letting Villanueva go and Clark can fill in nicely for him. It seems like people think Ellington will go later so we will adjust that but remember this is just the 1st mock draft and alot of things will change in the next 2 months. The Bucks and Pacers are the hardest teams to predict in the lottery in my opinion
by stneff70 on
Apr 30, 2025 4:44 PM EDT
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Right you are Neff Dog....
I can’t wait for the Combine measurements….that’ll throw in a whole different angle. Especially when we find out that Blair is actually 6’4" without shoes, but has 10’ arms.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 4:48 PM EDT
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I have not yet formed a really solid opinion on the draft myself, but some quick thoughts:
- I think Curry is listed way too low. I don’t know if he will pan out in the NBA, but I have read several team blogs from the Kings to the Wolves potentially interested to take him.
- I have bad feelings about Hasheem Thabeet
- I think James Harden profits from comparisons to my man Brandon Roy. “Yes, he is a bit slow and unathletic, but look what BRoy does in the NBA.” That fails to account for the fact that Roy had e.g. a 42 inch vert in high school, and even after some knee and ankle problems still has 40+. Some team will pick him too high imho.
- If DeJuan Blair doesn’t become fat like Mike Sweetney, I think he will have a very solid NBA career as a rotation player. His rebounding percentages are unreal, and his very long arms make up for his undersized stature.
- You know the Blazers will likely either move up or move out of the draft :) Other teams might buy picks as well, but of course that can’t be reflected yet in such an early version
by Norsktroll on
Apr 30, 2025 5:06 PM EDT
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Perfect
- Curry is moved up, but still not in the top 5
- Thabeet’s going to struggle, but I don’t think he should be dropped yet
- You’re probably right, but I’m not ready to write him off. He’s benefiting from that, but I think he can turn into a solid player
- I still hate Blair
- Oh those Blazers.. At least the Spurs aren’t in this draft as well…
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 7:23 PM EDT
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DANNNNGGGG
Ellington and Budinger sank quicker than a turd made of lead. But now it looks a little closer to what I was thinking about both of them.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 10:04 PM EDT
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Yep
Myself as well… Both don’t really fit well on too many teams.. When start sinking, it’s going to be far.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 10:08 PM EDT
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To be honest....
I’m not sure where Budinger fits….he has an inconsistent motor. Lets hope he tests out well at the combine. I’d even be surprised if the Cavs took him. Doesn’t seem to fit their personell plan.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 10:10 PM EDT
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True..
But I think he’s first round material… I had him and Daye switched around… That may make more sense…
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 10:16 PM EDT
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Yes, my life is again righted
I had felt off-kilter all afternoon until you switched them…..whew.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 10:20 PM EDT
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Anything for you
Mr. IceMan.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 10:27 PM EDT
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I'm not sure if....
Presti would consider a power forward with that pick if he can’t get Griffin. Outside of Griffin, I think the team is extremely happy with Jeff Green. If you read my EOS on him, you can see how much he improved this season.
I just have a feeling we’d more lean toward drafting James Harden and filling out the backcourt of the future if we can’t get Griffin or Thabeet.
-This comment brought to you by Mr Pappagiorgio aka Mister P
Welcome to Loud City | WTLC on Twitter | Mister P on Twitter | WTLC on Facebook | SBNation
by Mr Pappagiorgio on
Apr 30, 2025 7:13 PM EDT
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I still don't buy
Jeff Green as a 4. I like him, but I’d take Hill over Green.
Harden would probably be a reach at 4.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 7:24 PM EDT
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I’m not totally sold on him at the 4 either, he’s a hard guy to play since Durant is going to be cemented into the 3 for….EVER.
I’m just hoping we get a shot at any of those guys in the top 3. I will be disappointed if we don’t get either Griffin, Rubio, or Thabeet.
-This comment brought to you by Mr Pappagiorgio aka Mister P
Welcome to Loud City | WTLC on Twitter | Mister P on Twitter | WTLC on Facebook | SBNation
by Mr Pappagiorgio on
Apr 30, 2025 7:27 PM EDT
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This is a Top 2 draft
At least there’s still the lottery!
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 7:29 PM EDT
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Unrelated to this 'debate', but
great job on the graphic that tops this page.
True Blue Jazz
I'm on Twitter
RIP Nick Adenhart. 4/9/09
by UtesFan89 on
Apr 30, 2025 7:30 PM EDT
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Why thank you! Thanks to Scott for letting me contribute ;-)
-This comment brought to you by Mr Pappagiorgio aka Mister P
Welcome to Loud City | WTLC on Twitter | Mister P on Twitter | WTLC on Facebook | SBNation
by Mr Pappagiorgio on
Apr 30, 2025 7:31 PM EDT
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And now there's a link.
Blogging at RidiculousUpside
by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 7:32 PM EDT
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Scott....I withdraw my bid to photoshop a Draft graphic for you
Pappagiorgio…killed it.
by IcemanCometh on
Apr 30, 2025 10:00 PM EDT
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Trust.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
Apr 30, 2025 10:01 PM EDT
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My problem
I’m a Kings fan, and I understand that Griffin is widely considered to be the “consensus” number 1 pick. But let me ask you this: if you could choose to draft a 2-time MVP, or you could draft Carlos Boozer, a good but slightly overrated player (the Jazz are ready to let him walk away in favor of Milsap), who would you pick?
I don’t think the comparisons for NBA potential are off-base. But it’s why I can’t understand why everyone is do certain about Griffin.
Never forget: I am a complete idiot
by Exhibit G on
May 1, 2025 12:05 AM EDT
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An interesting thought...
Although you have to consider that as great as Rubio was during the Olympics, he is still somewhat of an unknown quantity. A European player with a lot of potential, but who most of us have yet to see a lot out of. Id’ say that both of these guys have a very high ceiling, but at this point, NBA and American fans know a lot more about what Griffin can do, and a lot less about what Rubio can provide.
After saying all that, I’d say it’s still a difficult choice. And I can see how you’d be skeptical about blindly selecting Griffin.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 12:12 AM EDT
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That same argument existed with Jay Williams and Yao Ming
Which was even more true in 2002 when YouTube wasn’t as prominent and fans didn’t know as much about European basketball as they do now.
If you’re the Kings, you don’t follow the consensus. I just think that the idea that they will is what most people will write for the time being. (Like what Scott Howard-Cooper who used to cover the Kings for the Sac Bee until about a month & half ago.)
Evil Cowtown Inc: Screwin' Suckaz over since Nineteen Eighty-Five.....
No mistakes in the tango, darling. Not like life. Simple. That's what makes the tango so great. If you make a mistake, and get all tangled up, you just tango on.....
by pookeyguru on
May 1, 2025 6:29 AM EDT
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That's true
Though with your 2002 example, the only Reason Jason Williams was a bust is because that idiot couldn’t stay off a motorcycle, but I digress.
I agree with Scott in that Rubio would probably be the smarter pick, but most teams, despite their scouting efforts, still don’t know enough about his playing and don’t know how to gauge his Euroball numbers.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 7:37 AM EDT
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Yep
I think you’re right. I would prefer that the Kings draft Rubio first, but I think, as Iceman says, he’s too much an unknown quantity. I don’t project Griffin to be the best player that comes out of this draft when we look back, but I think right now he’s the first overall pick.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 12:40 AM EDT
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This is why I hate the draft
I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love the draft. But I absolutely hate some of it. I hate when teams pass on obvious talents in favor of “potential” (thinking of the Hawks passing on Chris Paul and Deron Williams). But at the same time, if we project that Griffin won’t be the best player to come from this draft, why would we draft him #1?
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by Exhibit G on
May 1, 2025 10:13 AM EDT
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Because at this point, he's the surest thing in the draft
Other guys may come out and eventually be better, but right now no one knows which one of those guys it will be. Rubio, once again is still an unknown to American basketball, you also wonder how his game will translate to the NBA, will he be the next D-Rose or the next JJ Barea? It’s tough to tell at this point. Maybe Tyreke Evans or DeRozen will be the next D-Wade, that’s very possible, but right now they are no where near Griffin. Hell, even my boy Gerald Henderson could swing anywhere between Dahntay Jones and a shorter Kobe Bryant.
Point is, at this current time, Griffin is the most skilled and probably most valuable man in the draft. Five years down the road, who knows, anyone of the guys listed in the top 15 could surpass him, but which particular guy is impossible to tell (Exception: Ty Lawson, we know what he does, and I hate him).
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 10:32 AM EDT
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Have you watched the playoffs?
JJ Barea is the next Derrick Rose! I knew this two years go.
Anyway, can you really call him the surest thing in the draft right now? I hate saying this since we currently have him at the top spot, but I’m not completely sold on him in the NBA…
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 12:32 PM EDT
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I don't know....
compared to a 19 year old European point guard and a couple of upside big men? He wouldn’t be in another draft, but this year I dare you to name someone who could make a bigger impact from day one.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 12:45 PM EDT
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Could?
Or will?
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 12:47 PM EDT
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Touche....
Will. Even if it’s just his rebounding, I could see him having a Kevin Love type year with his boarding skills.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 12:49 PM EDT
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Minus the range
and overall endearing awkwardness.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 1:14 PM EDT
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I dare you to name someone who could make a bigger impact from day one.
Since when is the draft about who can necessarily contribut from Day 1?
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by Exhibit G on
May 1, 2025 6:55 PM EDT
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A more likely good/bad scenario for Rubio
given that’s coming from overseas, would be something like Raul Lopez/Tony Parker. Though they were both late 1st-rounders, Rubio seems like a top 5 pick (at the moment).
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by UtesFan89 on
May 1, 2025 3:07 PM EDT
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JJ Barea is the next AI. Hence Dirk already calls him "White AI", "Little AI" or "Puerto Rican AI" :)
As for potential, I a feeling that DeRozan could be all over the place. He was amazing in high school spawning tons of mixtapes, but had a very mediocre college career. I think he can go either way, from marginal player (think Gerald Green so far) to star.
"The playoffs now are my grind. My grind for a championship,'' Roy said. "Whatever needs to be done to get there I'm gonna do it.''
by Norsktroll on
May 2, 2025 5:51 AM EDT
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Agreed
He’s hard to predict, not sure he has the “heart” to be a superstar.
by IcemanCometh on
May 2, 2025 7:09 AM EDT
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Patrick Mills is from Wake Forest Now?
Went to St. Mary’s guys……
by Bitey on
May 1, 2025 3:14 AM EDT
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Nice catch.
Mistake when I was adjusting it.
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 3:19 AM EDT
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Ellington should be going to Jazz at 20. Maybe Patterson
Darren Collision will not being going to the Jazz at 20. They already have one of the best Point Guards in the NBA. Mo Almond is gone, Korver will be gone after this year so they don’t have many shooters. I think Ellington is a perfect fit. Who agrees with me that we need to chane that pick from Collision?
by stneff70 on
May 1, 2025 1:29 PM EDT
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Yeah I can see it Neff-dog....
I can even see them taking a shot at Sam Young, just to add some athleticism.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 2:40 PM EDT
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Korver
could very easily be resigned. He brings the shooting (when healthy) that this team really needs, and KOC, j-slow and everyone else knows it.
As it stands, unless something crazy happens, the Jazz go into next season with CJ, Brewer, AK, Harpring & Korver all at the wing positions (good or bad is irrelevant). Brewer is a starter. One of CJ/AK/Korver will start alongside him (again, barring some surprise trade or something). The other 2 , +Harpring, give the Jazz a wing rotation that they like. Adding another wing in the draft would just cause another Mo Almond/Sasha Pavlovic/DeShawn Stevenson type situation where the guy just rots away until the Jazz trade/release him.
On the other hand, the Jazz only have 1 PG under contract (Deron), and even if Price returns, j-slow loves having 3 PGs on the roster. We’ve tried this veteran PG thing 2 years in a row with horrible results (Hart, Brev Brev), and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the team pick Price as their back-up and then get another youngster to back him up.
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by UtesFan89 on
May 1, 2025 3:22 PM EDT
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Thank you kindly
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 3:37 PM EDT
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Why did I forget AK47?
he shouldn’t be forgetable. Who would be your pick at the 20 spot Utesfan?
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 3:39 PM EDT
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I would go PG
(I complained when the original mock had Chase Budinger at #20).
I don’t see many guys that’ll help the Jazz right away, but the presence of so many wings, and the recent drafting of Koufos makes C unlikely.
I listed why I’d go PG above (Flynn, Mills, Curry, Lawson, Collison… anyone really)… that said, if Booze or ’Sap leave, the Jazz could also go PF in the first round. Varnado would be nice. Hansborough (ugh) just seems like a j-slow guy.
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by UtesFan89 on
May 1, 2025 3:50 PM EDT
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Hansborough at 20 seems too high
But PF would be the other option… Patterson or Lawal would be other names to look at if a PF leaves..
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 3:54 PM EDT
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Lawal seems too raw for 20
Patterson, maybe. I think point guard may be the ticket.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 4:01 PM EDT
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Patterson worries me
I don’t know if the Jazz need/want another seemingly undersized PF… especially with Okur starting and being 6’11. Now if they would get some brains and play The Koof, we’d finally have a big that is, you know… big, and then maybe a 6’8 PF works.
(Same is true for Hansborough… but he plays physical, which will probably endear him to Sloan a la Harpring.)
6’8 isn’t really short, but as the Lakers series proved, the Jazz need bigs. The team has 2 guys at 7’+ (The Koof at 7’, and Fesenko at 7’1), and one of them isn’t a sure bet to return. Maybe the team lets Booze leave, moves Okur to PF, starts Koufos & drafts a 7-footer? (That said, this draft seems really short… no pun intended… on bigs.)
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by UtesFan89 on
May 1, 2025 4:15 PM EDT
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Did Hansborough ever play football?
I think that would definitely get him drafted by the Jazz. Not sure if you all know this, but Matt Harpring comes from a family of football players.
Basically, it comes down to who is still there and who is Sloan going to use in the frontcourt next year?
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by Ridiculous Scott on
May 1, 2025 4:26 PM EDT
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It's been made out that Boozer is definitely walking...
in which case they could really use some size in this draft, just not sure it’s going to be there. I hate Hansbrough, I had to watch him goosestep and travel for 4 damn years in the ACC.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 4:49 PM EDT
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I hate Hansborough
but you have to admit he seems like a j-slow type of game.
And really on Booze? I know not to take his word seriously, but everything he says makes it seem like he wants to stay. He went as far to call himself a cornerstone of the team (yeah… right).
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by UtesFan89 on
May 1, 2025 10:15 PM EDT
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I don't know what Boozer is thinking....
he is borderline unprofessional on a monthly basis. Why say anything about your contract mid-season to the media….or ever to the media. Ever. He probably will stay with the Jazz, he has a good thing going there, though you could have said the same thing about Cleveland.
As for Hansbrough, I know he’ll be a good pro….wait, a serviceable pro. And you’re right, Sloan loves guys who hussle and play smart, both of Which Hansbrough does. Although I can also see Hanstravel being the big white stiff everyone wants to dunk on when they get into the league. Kind of like Yao Ming, but a little more goofy and less hard to get over.
by IcemanCometh on
May 1, 2025 10:33 PM EDT
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I can see the Jazz drafting him
to get another big, and seeing our interior defense be the same/worse. Hopefully he’s gone before the Jazz pick.
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by UtesFan89 on
May 2, 2025 11:21 AM EDT
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I think he would be a downgrade from Boozer's defense
which is pretty bad as it stands. He played positional defense in college. I’m pretty sure Wayne Ellington had more blocks on the season than he did, doesn’t bode well for his post-collegiate D.
by IcemanCometh on
May 2, 2025 1:08 PM EDT
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I would be fine with Hansbrough at 20.
I originally had him there but then changed it. I think Sloan would love him and I think the Jazz don’t sign Millsap, Boozer and Okur, they will only sign 2 of them.
by stneff70 on
May 2, 2025 2:25 PM EDT
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Neff Dog....
do you really think that Ty Lawson will go before Demar DeRozen, I thought DeRozen’s stock was pretty high despite an inconsistent freshamn year?
by IcemanCometh on
May 2, 2025 4:05 PM EDT
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I don't think Okur opts out.
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by UtesFan89 on
May 2, 2025 7:48 PM EDT
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i doubt the warriors go after another skinny player who cant rebound or play d
lawson will be really tempting there
by nateoak10 on
May 3, 2025 1:50 AM EDT
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