2020 NBA Draft

[EricaLubarsky]

8 days

[tap2390]

I understand the Poku love — he’s tall and skilled. But, he has no mass, isn’t an elite athlete like Giannis, and is basically two years away from being two years away. When you have Aaron Rodgers it makes no sense to draft Jordan Love. Similarly, when you have Luka Doncic it makes no sense to take a huge project regardless of upside. We’re not the Thunder desperate for a star to stay relevant.

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by tap2390

I understand the Poku love — he’s tall and skilled. But, he has no mass, isn’t an elite athlete like Giannis, and is basically two years away from being two years away. When you have Aaron Rodgers it makes no sense to draft Jordan Love. Similarly, when you have Luka Doncic it makes no sense to take a huge project regardless of upside. We’re not the Thunder desperate for a star to stay relevant.

This is spot on. I hope they aren’t taking him. I think his upside is Kukoc Or Turkoglu without the shooting.

[KillerLeft]

The only way I can talk myself into believing the Mavs are high on Poku is if they see him as a way to draft a player and stash him for cap purposes. Other than that, I'd assume any link from the team to that guy is another (Franky) Smokescreen designed to free up someone else, raise the value of a trade down, etc.

I just don't think any sane GM would view throwing a project like that into the mix for a playoff team with actual, real holes to fill as a good idea. That's a swing for a team looking for an All-Star around whom to build.

[EricaLubarsky]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

The only way I can talk myself into believing the Mavs are high on Poku is if they see him as a way to draft a player and stash him for cap purposes. Other than that, I'd assume any link from the team to that guy is another (Franky) Smokescreen designed to free up someone else, raise the value of a trade down, etc.

I just don't think any sane GM would view throwing a project like that into the mix for a playoff team with actual, real holes to fill as a good idea. That's a swing for a team looking for an All-Star around whom to build.

It's a Denver move for sure. He's a guy like Porter that may be an allstar, but mostl likely will never be anything.

If he's nothing, you just forget about him.

If he's an allstar, you look like a genius.

[sefant77]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

The only way I can talk myself into believing the Mavs are high on Poku is if they see him as a way to draft a player and stash him for cap purposes. Other than that, I'd assume any link from the team to that guy is another (Franky) Smokescreen designed to free up someone else, raise the value of a trade down, etc.

I just don't think any sane GM would view throwing a project like that into the mix for a playoff team with actual, real holes to fill as a good idea. That's a swing for a team looking for an All-Star around whom to build.

Considering that #18 is probably the best pick we are going to have over yeaaars to come, then it makes sense to shoot for the high risk high reward guy. Because its probably our last chance in the Luka timeline to draft such a raw high ceiling guy with our pick.

And he wont get stashed. Better to put him in the G league for playing time and under Mavs supervision for strength and conditioning training

[mac222b]

I think I’m all in on Tyrell Terry and now worried he won’t make it to us. Would be thrilled with Terry or Precious. My favs among guys who have an actual chance of making it to us is something like: Terry, Precious, Kira, Saddiq Bey and then Josh Green/Maledon/Nesmith/Maxey in the next tier. Possible picks before us of guys I don’t like; Poku and Cole Anthony.

Ball, Wiseman, Edwards, Okongwu, Vassell, Deni, Hayes, Jalen Smith, Hampton, Halliburton, Toppin, Patrick Williams and Saddiq I see as near locks to go before we pick— with Smith or Williams maybe falling to us if all breaks right. So that’s 13 picks.

If we are looking to move up a few spots I hope it’s for the Jalen Smith, Bey, Kira, RJ, Tyrell, Precious (and Maxey if you believe in his shot) tier. To me there is a drop in talent from this “future starter” “4th best player on a contender tier“ to the next tier of Josh Green and Nesmith and Maledon and Bane who all COULD be good role player starters or good second unit guys but lack upside due to athletic, measurement or skill limitations.

[rimrocker]

My take on possible interest in Poku is that he could be developed to become an eventual replacement for the oft injured KP. Unique skill set for a 7 footer.
I think Mavs attempt to trade that pick for for a vet wing or aging star and Poku could be their backup plan.

But I could see them picking Poku and then trade back with OKC to pick up an asset and then grab a wing with that pick.

The most likely suitor for Poku imo is Boston with one of their many first rounders.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by rimrocker

My take on possible interest in Poku is that he could be developed to become an eventual replacement for the oft injured KP. Unique skill set for a 7 footer.
I think Mavs attempt to trade that pick for for a vet wing or aging star and Poku could be their backup plan.

But I could see them picking Poku and then trade back with OKC to pick up an asset and then grab a wing with that pick.

The most likely suitor for Poku imo is Boston with one of their many first rounders.

I think the teams who like him see him as a WING, not a BIG. Like, closer to Luka’s game than KP’s...though he won’t ever become half as good as either, probably. But, in those videos of him that have been circulating for the past few months, he is definitely playing the three hand handling the ball for his team.

[rimrocker]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

I think the teams who like him see him as a WING, not a BIG. Like, closer to Luka’s game than KP’s...though he won’t ever become half as good as either, probably. But, in those videos of him that have been circulating for the past few months, he is definitely playing the three hand handling the ball for his team.

Probably so.
I tend to see some Ginobli in his game.

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

I think the teams who like him see him as a WING, not a BIG. Like, closer to Luka’s game than KP’s...though he won’t ever become half as good as either, probably. But, in those videos of him that have been circulating for the past few months, he is definitely playing the three hand handling the ball for his team.

You’re hiding him on defense for years though. He’s long but would get bodied underneath. And he would get blown by by 3 and 4s. You’d have to be super patient and wait 4 years for him to be a rotation player I think.

[mac222b]

Regarding Poku: is his ceiling really that high? Maybe relative to the other guys in this draft. But he’s not an amazing athlete, can’t shoot, bad body for now. He can handle the ball for a big guy. I just don’t see the appeal. Maybe I’m missing something.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by mac222b

Regarding Poku: is his ceiling really that high? Maybe relative to the other guys in this draft. But he’s not an amazing athlete, can’t shoot, bad body for now. He can handle the ball for a big guy. I just don’t see the appeal. Maybe I’m missing something.

First off, I’m not a Poku guy. I wouldn’t draft him.

But, when you watch video of him, it’s easy to see what has NBA teams intrigued. “He can handle the ball for a big guy” doesn’t do him justice. People like to say that guys like Dirk could handle the ball like a guard, but really, that’s pretty far from true. This guy is actually a legit 7 foot ball handler. Like, he could actually initiate your offense. Great, great handle. Really good passer. He doesn’t move or run awkwardly, like most 7 footers do when not around the basket. Very fluid.

Knowing that he’s a 7 foot point forward, his body doesn’t scare me as much as it scares people assuming he’s going to play the 4 or the 5, because he’s a perimeter player, for sure. For me, the problem is that he doesn’t seem to be a very good outside shooter. He takes a lot of them, and off the dribble, no less. But, the percentages just aren’t great. Plus, we’ve never seen him against a good level of competition.

But again, look how Luka’s above average size adds to his level of effectiveness as the main initiator of the offense, and then realize this guy in 7’ tall. That is what the fuss is all about.

[mac222b]

Ok I just went back and rewatched him some. He does have really nice handles for a guy his size. And excellent court vision. The shooting looks like it could improve. He has pretty consistent mechanics and squares up nicely. Could work with it an tweak slightly and I think he could be a decent shooter. Defensively he’s pretty stiff and upright. He needs like two years of hardcore core and lower/upper body work before he even sees an NBA floor. I’d say 3yrs before he can begin to defend/rebound on an NBA court. Or finish through contact. He’d need a thick old fashioned PF like Millsap nest to him. I could see him turning in to a better passing, less rebound and defense and shooting Porter. Or he could Jonathan Bender.

[mac222b]

Poku is perfect for a team like OKC or Portland that likes to swing big for upside in the draft or of course Boston with multiple picks. Someone will be smitten with him, for sure. I can see now after rewatching what the fuss is about. And I’m a BPA guy all the way. But it’s a big leap and a lot of patience required.

[KillerLeft]

I agree, it’s a pick for a starless team, and will take a serious investment to pay off.

[sefant77]

Nobody here saw or knows enough about Poku to really Rate him.

With the past years the FO earned my trust, specially regarding Europe (Maxi, Luka). If they are high on Poku, then im fine with it

[DevinHarriswillstart]

Originally Posted by sefant77

Nobody here saw or knows enough about Poku to really Rate him.

With the past years the FO earned my trust, specially regarding Europe (Maxi, Luka). They they are high on Poku, then im fine with it

He is a Donnie type of guy, but he really makes no sense for the current roster. Mavs are win now, and there are always talented Euro guys you can draft and stash or find undrafted.

I just can't get past that frame. This isn't Luka being slow footed kinda red flag. He literally doesn't have the strength right now to even get on the court, and not all body types can just add weight.

[Dtownsfinest]

Originally Posted by sefant77

Nobody here saw or knows enough about Poku to really Rate him.

With the past years the FO earned my trust, specially regarding Europe (Maxi, Luka). If they are high on Poku, then im fine with it

I'll give them props for Luka but it wasn't like if they passed up on him nobody else was going to take him. As a matter of fact them hitting on Luka is why I'd be reluctant to put trust into them.

[SMC0007]

People said many of the same things about Kevin Durant body as they do Poku. He's been a rail his whole career.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by SMC0007

People said many of the same things about Kevin Durant body as they do Poku. He's been a rail his whole career.

LOL, I was trying to think of a comparison earlier, and as ludicrous as it might sound, that’s a pretty good one. He is like a taller Kevin Durant with better handles, but without the shooting stroke.

Imagine if Kevin Durant was coming into the league right now, only he was doing all of that behind the back, side dribble into a three point shot stuff that is required these days. And he was 7 feet tall. That is Poku.

I still don’t see any possible way the Mavs are interested. And, the fact that there is so much speculation linking them makes me feel even more confident that he’s not their guy.

To be completely honest, if I had to bet money right now I would put it on a draft night trade that takes number 18 out of the equation completely.

[MFFL]

I like Poku because although he could completely bust, he has the potential to be really good

And he would be a good trade asset. With the weird year next year, most rookies will still be mostly potential since they won't be able to develop as normal. So a guy like Poku will be a great lottery ticket to throw into a trade after next season

[SMC0007]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

LOL, I was trying to think of a comparison earlier, and as ludicrous as it might sound, that’s a pretty good one. He is like a taller Kevin Durant with better handles, but without the shooting stroke.

Imagine if Kevin Durant was coming into the league right now, only he was doing all of that behind the back, side dribble into a three point shot stuff that is required these days. And he was 7 feet tall. That is Poku.

I still don’t see any possible way the Mavs are interested. And, the fact that there is so much speculation linking them makes me feel even more confident that he’s not their guy.

To be completely honest, if I had to bet money right now I would put it on a draft night trade that takes number 18 out of the equation completely.

If they really wanted him I still don't think they could justify using 18 for him. Maybe picking a lower risk guy Bey ,Bane for example at 18 and moving up the 31 pick or just trading down the 18th?

KD is a stretch obviously but the same things were said about his body and he put in the work and proved everyone wrong.

[tap2390]

If Poku is the next coming of KD he wouldn’t make it to 18. The reason he will at least make it to the teens is because he doesn’t have nearly the agility or lateral quickness that Kevin Durant had coming out of UT. KD was always going to be able guard wings. Poku can’t guard anyone.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by tap2390

If Poku is the next coming of KD he wouldn’t make it to 18. The reason he will at least make it to the teens is because he doesn’t have nearly the agility or lateral quickness that Kevin Durant had coming out of UT. KD was always going to be able guard wings. Poku can’t guard anyone.

Agreed! I'm just trying to find a comparison that helps people understand what he is. He's not a skilled big, he's a BIG ASS WING.

[Scoobay]

https://theboxand1.weebly.com/

Someone posted this site's mock draft/big board earlier - what a great site with lots of info and analysis

Below is a vid with their breakdown of the SW division
he's got the Mavs considering Precious and Maxey

https://youtu.be/8-xsopMjaJw?t=770

[EricaLubarsky]

Originally Posted by Scoobay

https://theboxand1.weebly.com/

Someone posted this site's mock draft/big board earlier - what a great site with lots of info and analysis

Below is a vid with their breakdown of the SW division
he's got the Mavs considering Precious and Maxey

https://youtu.be/8-xsopMjaJw?t=770

It looks like he has us picking Stewart and has Precious gone by us. I'm confused. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9YCzTSOPc8

Stewart is an interesting pick for us with so many bigs and Rick not playing Powell because of his lack of 3pt range.

I love a guy with a lot of heart, hustle, and drive. I don't know how likely he is to get major PT with his inability to shoot a jumper.

[SMC0007]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

It looks like he has us picking Stewart and has Precious gone by us. I'm confused. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9YCzTSOPc8

Stewart is an interesting pick for us with so many bigs and Rick not playing Powell because of his lack of 3pt range.

I love a guy with a lot of heart, hustle, and drive. I don't know how likely he is to get major PT with his inability to shoot a jumper.

Rick not playing Powell because of his 3pt shooting? I feel like Powell got too much PT in the face of that. 27 Mpg, All season long people were calling for WCS or Bobi...anyone else.

[EricaLubarsky]

Originally Posted by SMC0007

Rick not playing Powell because of his 3pt shooting? I feel like Powell got too much PT in the face of that. 27 Mpg, All season long people were calling for WCS or Bobi...anyone else.

Powell had to move from PF to C because he couldn't shoot the 3. Stewart is in the same boat so he'd have to compete for minutes with KP, Boban, Kleber, and WCS

I think Rick could find a place for Stewart next to KP with KP stretching the floor and Stewart down low, but if KP is injured, Rick will not play Stewart with Powell or Boban.

[SMC0007]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

Powell had to move from PF to C because he couldn't shoot the 3. Stewart is in the same boat so he'd have to compete for minutes with KP, Boban, Kleber, and WCS

I think Rick could find a place for Stewart next to KP with KP stretching the floor and Stewart down low, but if KP is injured, Rick will not play Stewart with Powell or Boban.

ah, gotcha.

[Scoobay]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

It looks like he has us picking Stewart and has Precious gone by us. I'm confused. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9YCzTSOPc8

Stewart is an interesting pick for us with so many bigs and Rick not playing Powell because of his lack of 3pt range.

I love a guy with a lot of heart, hustle, and drive. I don't know how likely he is to get major PT with his inability to shoot a jumper.

ah - i think the video you linked is more recent than the one i did.
he just put out version 4 video so maybe there will be some further updates.

the buzz around tyrell terry is fascinating... part of me is screaming NOOOOOO but part of me is very very intrigued.

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by Scoobay

ah - i think the video you linked is more recent than the one i did.
he just put out version 4 video so maybe there will be some further updates.

the buzz around tyrell terry is fascinating... part of me is screaming NOOOOOO but part of me is very very intrigued.

Terry just looks like a natural born shooter to me. His stroke reminds me of Mark Price. No wasted motion.

[Scoobay]

Originally Posted by mac222b

Terry just looks like a natural born shooter to me. His stroke reminds me of Mark Price. No wasted motion.

https://www.theringer.com/2020/11/9/...-draft-lottery

yeah the shooting is huge
what a great fit on offense as a lights out shooter and secondary playmaker.

but it's impressive that he's put on weight and added strength as well. does he have he chops to compete and not be a liability on defense? does his offensive game outweigh those limitations?

[EricaLubarsky]

6 days

[EricaLubarsky]

From most historically accurate to least

Draftexpress/ESPN - S. Bey/ Azubuike
https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/...s-latest-intel




Ringer - Green (updated 11/14
https://nbadraft.theringer.com/



Bleacher report - Bolmero / N/A
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/...nd-predictions



USA Today - Hampton/
https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gal...nd/5280504002/



SBNation - Nesmith/ NA
https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2020/8/...warriors-bulls



Sports Illustrated - Hampton/ T.Bey
https://www.si.com/nba/2020/08/21/nb...es-win-lottery



Nbadraft.net - Terry/ Oturu updated 10/19
https://www.nbadraft.net/nba-mock-drafts/
https://www.nbadraft.net/players/tyrell-terry/
https://www.nbadraft.net/players/daniel-oturu/


CBS Sports (Boone) - Hampton / NA Updated
https://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/mock-draft/


CBS Sports (Parrish) - Maxey / NA
https://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/mock-draft/


Yahoo Sports - Green
https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nba-mo...132728170.html

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

From most historically accurate to least

Draftexpress/ESPN - S. Bey/ Azubuike
https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/...s-latest-intel




Ringer - Green (updated 11/14
https://nbadraft.theringer.com/



Bleacher report - Bolmero / N/A
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/...nd-predictions



USA Today - Hampton/
https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gal...nd/5280504002/



SBNation - Nesmith/ NA
https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2020/8/...warriors-bulls



Sports Illustrated - Hampton/ T.Bey
https://www.si.com/nba/2020/08/21/nb...es-win-lottery



Nbadraft.net - Terry/ Oturu updated 10/19
https://www.nbadraft.net/nba-mock-drafts/
https://www.nbadraft.net/players/tyrell-terry/
https://www.nbadraft.net/players/daniel-oturu/


CBS Sports (Boone) - Hampton / NA Updated
https://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/mock-draft/


CBS Sports (Parrish) - Maxey / NA
https://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/mock-draft/


Yahoo Sports - Green
https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nba-mo...132728170.html

Man, I feel like we can’t really go wrong, per se, at 18. I like Bolmaro the least of those guys listed but I see them all as cheap rotation guys or trade bait. Maxey could be really good and he’s the kind of guy with upside the teams will trade for. Hampton same. All Green needs not to be a bust is the knock down 3’s around 35% or more. He profiles as a good defender. Terry and Nesmith have an elite skill. Sadiq worst case is good 3-D small ball Center like JayMichael Green. Those guys have value even if they aren’t great players.

[tap2390]

I've been watching a lot of Cole Anthony film and man he looks good. He's also been working out with Tim Hardaway Jr. in Miami. May be a sneaky pick for us if he's there at #18 (but I don't think he will be.... in fact I think he might go ahead of Haliburton and Hayes).

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by tap2390

I've been watching a lot of Cole Anthony film and man he looks good. He's also been working out with Tim Hardaway Jr. in Miami. May be a sneaky pick for us if he's there at #18 (but I don't think he will be.... in fact I think he might go ahead of Haliburton and Hayes).

He might go ahead of Hayes. I'd be SHOCKED if he went before Haliburton, who is seems to be the flavor of the week (good week to be that).

[KillerLeft]

@tap How do you feel about Terry?

[Scoobay]

https://youtu.be/YgAXd3K9Rv4?t=603

this mock has us taking Cole Anthony at 18 and Tyler Bey at 31

(https://youtu.be/YgAXd3K9Rv4?t=712)