Here it is - Ridiculous Upside's first stab at mocking the 2010 NBA draft - post-lottery edition. I hope you like it, but if you don't, we'll have these updated every Monday(ish) as pre-draft workouts and the NBA Combine are completed.
Please check out our Guide To Mock Drafts to answer any questions before any flambéing occurs. After the jump I've provided brief analysis on all 30 first round picks.
Also, if you have any issues, leave the feedback in the comments and we can discuss it there. Still, if there are so many issues that you think you can make a better version, post it in the fan posts and, if we like it, it could make the front page. If there are enough people that use the fan posts for their mock, we'll probably have a contest - with prizes!
Pick |
Team |
Player |
| 1 | Washington Wizards | John Wall (Kentucky) |
| 2 | Philadelphia 76ers | Evan Turner (Ohio State) |
| 3 | New Jersey Nets | Derrick Favors (Georgia Tech) |
| 4 | Minnesota Timberwolves | DeMarcus Cousins (Kentucky) |
| 5 | Sacramento Kings | Wesley Johnson (Syracuse) |
| 6 | Golden State Warriors | Al-Farouq Aminu (Wake Forest) |
| 7 | Detroit Pistons | Greg Monroe (Georgetown) |
| 8 | Los Angeles Clippers | Cole Aldrich (Kansas) |
| 9 | Utah Jazz (from NYK) | Ed Davis (North Carolina) |
| 10 | Indiana Pacers | Xavier Henry (Kansas) |
| 11 | New Orleans Hornets | Daniel Orton (Kentucky) |
| 12 | Memphis Grizzlies | Ekpe Udoh (Baylor) |
| 13 | Toronto Raptors | Hassan Whiteside (Marshall) |
| 14 | Houston Rockets | Patrick Patterson (Kentucky) |
| 15 | Milwaukee Bucks (from CHI) | James Anderson (Oklahoma State) |
| 16 | Minnesota Timberwolves (from CHA) | Gordon Hayward (Butler) |
| 17 | Chicago Bulls (from MIL) | Paul George (Fresno State) |
| 18 | Miami Heat | Avery Bradley (Texas) |
| 19 | Boston Celtics | Luke Babbitt (Nevada) |
| 20 | San Antonio Spurs | Donatas Motiejunas (Lithuania) |
| 21 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Solomon Alabi (Florida State) |
| 22 | Portland Trail Blazers | Damion James (Texas) |
| 23 | Minnesota Timberwolves (from UTA) | Kevin Seraphin (France) |
| 24 | Atlanta Hawks | Larry Sanders (VCU) |
| 25 | Memphis Grizzlies (from DEN) | Eric Bledsoe (Kentucky) |
| 26 | Oklahoma City Thunder (from PHX) | Quincy Pondexter (Washington) |
| 27 | New Jersey Nets (from DAL) | Terrico White (Mississippi) |
| 28 | Memphis Grizzlies (from LAL) | Stanley Robinson (UConn) |
| 29 | Orlando Magic | Willie Warren (Oklahoma) |
| 30 | Washington Wizards (from CLE) | Devin Ebanks (West Virginia) |
Second Round |
Team |
Player |
| 31 | New Jersey Nets | Craig Brackins (Iowa State) |
| 32 | Oklahoma City Thunder (from MIN) | Elliot Williams (Memphis) |
| 33 | Sacramento Kings | Jerome Jordan (Tulsa) |
| 34 | Washington Wizards | Gani Lawal (Georgia Tech) |
| 35 | Golden State Warriors | Jarvis Varnado (Mississippi State) |
| 36 | Detroit Pistons | Darington Hobson (New Mexico) |
| 37 | Milwaukee Bucks (from PHI) | Dominique Jones (South Florida) |
| 38 | New York Knicks | Jordan Crawford (Xavier) |
| 39 | New York Knicks (from LAC) | Tiny Gallon (Oklahoma) |
| 40 | Indiana Pacers | Armon Johnson (Nevada) |
| 41 | Miami Heat (from NOH) | Artsiom Parakhouski (Radford) |
| 42 | Miami Heat (from TOR) | Sylven Landesberg (Virginia) |
| 43 | Los Angeles Lakers (from MEM) | Sherron Collins (Kansas) |
| 44 | Portland Trail Blazers (from CHI) | Robin Benzing (Germany) |
| 45 | Minnesota Timberwolves (from HOU) | Miroslav Raduljica (Serbia) |
| 46 | Phoenix Suns (from CHA) | Trevor Booker (Clemson) |
| 47 | Milwaukee Bucks | Charles Garcia (Seattle) |
| 48 | Miami Heat | Dwayne Collins (Miami) |
| 49 | San Antonio Spurs | Greivis Vasquez (Maryland) |
| 50 | Dallas Mavericks (from OKC) | Dexter Pittman (Texas) |
| 51 | Oklahoma City Thunder (from POR) | Latavious Williams (Tulsa 66ers) |
| 52 | Boston Celtics | Mikhail Torrance (Alabama) |
| 53 | Atlanta Hawks | Manny Harris (Michigan) |
| 54 | Los Angeles Clippers (from DEN) | Da'Sean Butler (West Virginia) |
| 55 | Utah Jazz | Elijah Millsap (UAB) |
| 56 | Minnesota Timberwolves (from PHX) | Brian Zoubek (Duke) |
| 57 | Indiana Pacers (from DAL) | Jeremy Wise (Bakersfield Jam) |
| 58 | Los Angeles Lakers | Derrick Caracter (UTEP) |
| 59 | Orlando Magic | Jon Scheyer (Duke) |
| 60 | Phoenix Suns (from CLE) | Alexy Shved (Russia) |
1. Washington Wizards - John Wall, PG (Kentucky freshman)
While there seems to be some dissent wondering if John Wall can play next to the current face of the Wizards franchise, Gilbert Arenas, it seems that the answer is a resounding yes. Arenas will no longer have to constantly create all of his shots (formerly known as the Wizards offense) while Wall has shown that he can play alongside another point guard already - he did so at Kentucky when fellow first-round pick Eric Bledsoe was in. By the way, SBN's Wizards blog Bullets Forever seems to be kind of excited about winning the lottery - just in case you were wondering. And, for that matter, Wall and his posse are happy with the Wizards winning as well (just as long it wasn't Minnesota, it seems).
2. Philadelphia 76ers - Evan Turner, SG/SF (Ohio State junior)
The Sixers are already said to be open to trading this pick according to Sam Amico, but that wouldn't seem to be the prudent idea - regardless of their current roster. With Willie Green and Jason Kapono both seeing more NBA starts than they should have last season (meaning that they started NBA games), it definitely makes sense to draft Turner to play on the wing Andre Iguodala. While, as Chad Ford states in his new mock draft, Turner duplicates a lot of the same things Iguodala does, a few of those duplications include excellent rebounding for their size and great defense - and don't worry, they're not too bad on offense, either. For what it's worth, Sixers Nation has already weighed in - and they want Turner.
3. New Jersey Nets - Derrick Favors, PF (Georgia Tech freshman)
While DeMarcus Cousins is the more NBA-ready prospect, Favors has what those in the know call "Ridiculous Upside" at the ripe young age of 18. It doesn't hurt that he's much more suited to play next to current big man Brook Lopez with his blend of speed and athleticism, either. It's probably the not most prudent pick to win now or, for that matter, to lure LeBron James to New Jersey/Brooklyn/where ever but it should pay off in the long-run - and after finishing with the worst record in the NBA this year, the Nets should definitely be thinking long-term so they don't end up in this same predicament sometime soon. As an aside, this may or may not be karma for Nets' fans prematurely debating the merits of Wall versus Turner.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeMarcus Cousins, C (Kentucky freshman)
Canis Hoopus actually had DeMarcus Cousins at the top of their big board, so while they're unhappy that they didn't win the lottery, Stop-N-Pop reasons that "it's not that awful." While neither Al Jefferson or Kevin Love are certifiable centers, Cousins certainly certainly is at 6-foot-11 and 260 pounds. While there are red flags concerning Cousins' attitude, there isn't a player in the draft that doesn't have issues - nor is there a better on-the-court player available at this selection.
5. Sacramento Kings - Wesley Johnson, SF (Syracuse junior)
I really, really like Wesley Johnson. He didn't play last season after transferring from Iowa State, but there's a lot to like about the guy. He can shoot, run the floor, and he hit the boards pretty hard at 'Cuse. Unfortunately, he'll be 23 when the NBA season starts and he played in Syracuse's zone defense (tough to project to the NBA). Though the Kings most wanted a legitimate big man to pair with former lottery picks Jason Thompson and Spencer Hawes, the best player available won't be a terrible option - especially when the small forward spot was the least productive position for Sactown last season. Johnson can shoot (42% from beyond the arc last season), rebound and get up and down the floor and seemingly play defense (he averaged just under two steals and two blocks per game). He's probably not going to be the star Tyreke Evans turned out to be, but he'll more than likely make Evans happy when he's able to dish the ball to Johnson for a corner three.
6. Golden State Warriors - Al-Farouq Aminu, F (Wake Forest sophomore)
While it's almost unanimous that the Golden State Warriors need a big man to replace the production(?) of Andris Biedrins, it'd be a mistake to take a plodder for the fun-and-gun Warriors offense (Chad Ford suggests Cole Aldrich). Aminu is an athletic tweener that can play both forward spots in the Warriors offense - and we know how much Don Nelson loves to play Nellieball with versatile players all around the court. Aminu is currently working on his jumper and ball handling in Los Angeles according to Draft Express, two of the biggest knocks against currently against him, and it sounds like everything is going great. Since Anthony Tolliver did well in Golden State's system, I have no doubt that Aminu can do the same. According to Blogger So Dear, SB Nation's Wake Forest blog, it seems Aminu should translate better to the NBA than I had planned. As a plus, I'm fairly certain he's not going to be the next DerMarr Johnson.
7. Detroit Pistons - Greg Monroe, PF/C (Georgetown sophomore)
Greg Monroe is not going to do the dirty-work that Ben Wallace brought the Pistons, but with Jason Maxiell that isn't exactly a need. Monroe is the most skilled big man in the draft as he can shoot, pass, score in the post and even put the ball on the floor. His rebounding is often said to be a problem, but he did average 9.6 boards while at Georgetown last season. While he's not a throwback Piston, the Pistons aren't really built like that right now anyway.
8. Los Angeles Clippers - Cole Aldrich, C (Kansas Sophomore)
The Clippers don't need a big man, really - and I realize this. Steve Perrin from ClipsNation told me as much which is why I went with Xavier Henry last week. Then I was called "ridiculous" by pretty much everyone, so I decided we're going to go the best player available route. This week, it seems that Aldrich is that player - while he resembles current big man Chris Kaman, he's honestly too good to pass up. Plus, with seemingly-constant trade rumors surrounding Kaman, it doesn't hurt to have a much cheaper replacement ready and waiting in the wings.
9. Utah Jazz - Ed Davis, PF (North Carolina Sophomore)
While I juggled with putting Luke Babbitt here (he seems to be rising up everyone's draft board and Cole Aldrich wasn't available so he's the best white dude available), Davis would be very tough to pass up with his combination of rebounding and shot blocking and energy he brings to the floor. With the very real possibility of Carlos Boozer heading to free agency this offseason, Davis would represent a nice change-of-pace forward to come off the bench for Millsap - and if he can add a little bit of bulk, he could probably even play along side him.
10. Indiana Pacers - Xavier Henry, SG (Kansas freshman)
Xavier Henry seems to be losing fans every day, unfortunately (Ford dropped him to the 19th spot in his most recent mock). Fortunately for Pacers fans, I've not heard/read anything that makes me not think he's the best option in Indiana to replace fellow Kansas alum Brandon Rush. Henry has NBA size and an NBA-ready stroke, meaning he should be able to step right in and contribute.
The Hornets could probably have used a small forward just as well at this spot, but there really isn't one available - without reaching. In Orton, they'll get their center of the future as well as their top backup in the frontcourt right now (with Emeka being able to slide to the 4). Jeff Bower has shown he knows what he's doing with the draft and I don't think he's scared of taking a potential-laden pick (especially since he doesn't have to worry about coaching him). May 10th Update: I'm trying to decide if I like this highlight video from his high school days because he shows a soft touch and seems to be more agile than planned or hate it because he doesn't look as strong as I thought he was.
12. Memphis Grizzlies - Ekpe Udoh, PF (Baylor junior)
It's tough to draft for the Grizzlies this year because there aren't really any major holes - especially if they're able to hold on to Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo makes a succesful transition to the point. While a big man isn't necessarily needed for this season (especially after drafting Hasheem Thabeet second overall last season), their position in the draft makes it almost a certainty that it happens. I'm not as sold on Udoh as some, but he'd be a more-than-capable replacement for Zach Randolph if he doesn't resign with the Grizzlies next season.
With the possibility of Chris Bosh leaving, a big man seems to be the likeliest pick at this juncture (both because it fills a potential need and their aren't many other options available). Whiteside has been said to be the biggest risk/reward pick in the draft, but the Raptors will definitely be looking to make a splash if they indeed lose the face of their franchise. If he's able to get stronger, and improve a bit on offense, this will become an awesome pick. As is, his 5.4 blocks per game should would certainly be nice if they translate.
It's kind of surprising that his draft stock actually rose this season while his production dropped, but he showed maturity, leadership and all of the other nice words you'd expect out of someone older than the 21-year-old from Kentucky. With the Rockets seemingly looking for a big man in free agency (hopefully Bosh from the sounds of it), Patterson's ready to step-in right now - and comes at quite the discount.
15. Milwaukee Bucks - James Anderson, SG (Oklahoma State junior)
The Bucks might be losing John Salmons, but that won't be such a blow if they're able to draft Anderson, one of the best scorers in college last season.
16. Minnesota Timberwolves - Gordon Hayward, SF (Butler Sophomore)
I know everyone thought the Wolves would quit drafting based on awesome NCAA tournaments, but I think it'd be tough to pass on Hayward to compliment the defensive-minded Corey Brewer on the wing. For what it's worth, Chad Ford put him with the Bucks pick while mentioning "I hesitate to put Hayward this low, knowing that the Chicago draft combine is coming up and that he's going to measure better athletically than people think. "
17. Chicago Bulls - Paul George, G/F (Fresno State sophomore)
I asked your friendly BullsBlogger from BlogABull what the Bulls might be looking for and he essentially said three-point shooting, preferably from a 2-guard and preferably with athleticism. After George recently told Chad Ford that he thinks he might be better at the 2 than the 3, this choice is perfect. George has a host of highlight reel dunks, but can also shoot very well from long-range (especially if the Bulls rein him in just a bit).
18. Miami Heat - Avery Bradley, G (Texas freshman)
The defense is the backbone with Bradley - and most think he'll be able to transition to the point in the NBA. Though the Heat have bigger fish to fry (Dwayne Wade needs to stay), Bradley's very quick and can defend the other team's best guard so Wade has more energy to do work on offense.
19. Boston Celtics - Luke Babbitt, SF (Nevada sophomore)
What do the Celtics need? I've been lurking over at CelticsBlog for awhile, but they really seem quite content (even Scalabrine gets some love). That said, I'm going to go with the best available player in Babbitt. A 6-foot-9 shooter, he'd be a great option off the bench for a team with very few holes (see Playoffs, NBA 2010). He could also possibly slide Paul Pierce over to the two-guard and replace Ray Allen's shooting prowess if Allen isn't retained.
I've never been enamored with Motiejunas' game (or rather draft-and-stashing early first-rounders), but didn't want to be the only one to drop him out of the lottery. The good news is that Chad Ford dropped Motiejunas to the 21st overall pick in his latest mock so now I can tell you how I really feel. With the Spurs not really having many immediate needs, it'd make sense to draft Motiejunas in hopes of having him step in immediately next year.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder - Solomon Alabi, PF (Florida State junior)
This pick probably isn't going to need to contribute right away, which is why it makes sense to pick a big with potential (he'll at least have better numbers than Byron Mullens, if nothing else). He kind of replicates the skillset of Serge Ibaka, but if one Ibaka on the floor is nice, two would be even better! Right? Oh, also he's 7-foot-1 and runs the floor like a gazelle.
22. Portland Trailblazers - Damion James, F (Texas Senior)
I had Quincy Pondexter here earlier, but after talking to some people who have opinions that I trust more than my own I've decided to give James a considerable bump. James might be one of the more underrated players in the draft with his combination of athleticism and motor. BlazersEdge has had their eye on him as well.
23. Minnesota Timberwolves - Kevin Seraphin, F/C (France)
Here's the deal - as much as I'd prefer the Wolves to do what I want them to do, I have to assume they're either going to trade this pick or stash this pick. With Seraphin on the board (someone I'm really intrigued with in what I've been able to watch), I think he's the pick. He's not ready yet, and maybe he never will be, but it's a pick that could pay off down the road.
25. Memphis Grizzlies -Eric Bledsoe, G (Kentucky freshman)
I know I've already mentioned that Mayo might be moving to the point, but it'd be pretty difficult to pass on Bledsoe if he's still sitting here at this point in the draft.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder - Quincy Pondexter SF/PF (Washington senior)
I really like Pondexter, but I had to drop him in favor of Damion James this week. Still, he seems like an OKC type of guy - a lanky, athletic defender that can play multiple positions. Chad Ford says that "he is an elite athlete and proved this season that he can really score. He's a jump shot away from being a star." With enough shooters, I think Pondexter will fit in just fine.
27. New Jersey Nets -Terrico White, SG (Mississippi Sophomore)
The Nets could use a scoring option on the wing and White can definitely fill that role. He could also possibly fill the void as backup point guard if needed.
28. Memphis Grizzlies - Stanley Robinson, F (UConn senior)
Just go with it. With the possibility of losing both Rudy Gay and Ronnie Brewer, the wing is a position of need. While I'm not totally sold on Robinson, there's a lot to like getting him at this spot. If nothing else, the pick adds to the athletes.
29. Orlando Magic - Willie Warren, G (Oklahoma sophomore)
With Anthony Johnson and Jason Williams both becoming free agents, the Magic could do a lot worse as Warren was projected as a top five pick coming into the season. I'm not sure what happens when he gets to the NBA, but it's probably worth this pick to try and figure it out. The magic are deep enough to be able to take the loss if he looks as bad as he did this past season, but it'll be a steal if he's able to regain his freshman form.
30. Washington Wizards - Devin Ebanks, SF (West Virginia)
"Who cares who the Wizards pick at 30? They got John Wall!" was the esteemed Tom Ziller's reasoning for the Wizards 30th pick over at AOL Fanhouse. Although I've inserted a different player, the explanation fits.
For a link to more mock drafts (to compare and contrast), check out DC Pro Sports Report's database.
Loading comments...