2020 NBA Draft

[tap2390]

Here's my latest mock.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves
Isaac Okoro | 6-8 wing | 19 years old, freshman | Auburn
Yes, I’m doing it. I’m giving the TWolves what they really need, a wing defender. Specifially, Okoro is THE wing defender in this draft. He can play anything 2-4 and will look good next to KAT and Russell.

2. Golden State Warriors
Obi Toppin | 6-9 forward/center | 22 years old, sophomore | Dayton
Warriors aren’t going to waste the last few years of Curry, Klay, and Green by rolling the dice on Wiseman. They’re going to pick up the extremely skilled and versatile Toppin. I also don’t think the Warriors are trading this pick. They need someone who can contribute now at a low price tag while transitioning them to their post-dynasty future.

3. Charlotte Hornets
Anthony Edwards | 6-5 guard | 19 years old, freshman | Georgia
Well, the Hornets struggled to score last season, and they pick up the best pure scorer in the draft. They will look to ease up the logjam by trading Malik Monk for a pick later in the draft.

4. Chicago Bulls
Tyrese Haliburton | 6-5 guard | 20 years old, sophomore | Iowa State
Bulls need someone to replace Kris Dunn and opt for Haliburton’s developed all-around game over Ball. Also came close to giving them Pat Williams or Deni Avdija.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers
Patrick Williams | 6-8 forward/wing | 18 years old, freshman | Florida State
Cavs select the versatile high-upside forward over the more physically limited 3-and-D wings.

6. Atlanta Hawks
Devin Vassell | 6-5 wing | 19 years old, sophomore | Florida State
Hawks continue their quest to surround Trae with 3-and-D guys. Ball and Wiseman continues their falls.

7. Detroit Pistons
LaMelo Ball | 6-6 guard | 18 years old | Illawarra Hawks
What do you give the team that has nothing? A point guard you hope will kick start the anemic offense.

8. New York Knicks
Killian Hayes | 6-5 guard | 18 years old, freshman | Ulm
Who knows what the Knicks are going to do, but Killian gives them a versatile combo guard who can play 1 or 2.

9. Washington Wizards
James Wiseman | 7-1 center | 19 years old, freshman | Memphis
Wiseman’s fall ends here. Wizards imagine a high-flying offense with Thomas Bryant off the bench and Wiseman anchoring the defense.

10. Phoenix Suns
Kira Lewis Jr. | 6-3 guard | 19 years old, sophomore | Alabama
Rubio quietly had a very good season, but what the Suns need is someone who can consistently get dribble penetration, Lewis is that guy.

11. San Antonio Spurs
Deni Avdija | 6-9 forward | 19 years old | Maccabi Tel-Aviv
Spurs are a long way from competing, so they go with the best offensive prospect available. Avdija has an advanced offensive game, but it remains to be seen if he is athletic enough to keep up on defense.

12. Sacramento Kings
Tyrese Maxey | 6-3 guard | 19 years old, freshman | Kentucky
Maxey is an underrated defender both on and off the ball. On offense he has a wide array of tools but needs to be more consistent. Kings view him as a combo guard who can create when Fox is out.

13. New Orleans Pelicans
Saddiq Bey | 6-8 wing | 20 years old, sophomore | Villanova
Pels take a hard look at Okongwu, but ultimately decide they don’t want anyone crowding Zion, and believe in Jaxson Hayes. Pels get an elite 3-and-D guy instead.

14. Boston Celtics (via MEM)
Onyeka Okongwu | 6-9 center | 19 years old, freshman | USC
An absolute coup for the Celtics at this point in the draft. Okongwu falls because of concerns regarding his size, and team needs of the teams above.

15. Orlando Magic
Aaron Nesmith | 6-6 wing | 20 years old, sophomore | Vanderbilt
Hard pick here. Magic ultimately need outside shooting more than they need anything else.

16. Portland Trail Blazers
Josh Green | 6-6 wing | 19 years old, freshman | Arizona
Blazers needs someone (anyone) who can guard the perimeter and complement Dame + CJ.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves
Tyrell Terry | 6-1 guard | 19 years old, freshman | Stanford
Probably one of the more polarizing players in the draft. Has a Steph Curry-like shot/ range, but could easily just be more Seth Curry. Either way, he’s the best pure shooter in the draft and potentially has a ton of upside.

18. Dallas Mavericks
Precious Achiuwa | 6-9 forward/center | 20 years old, freshman | Memphis
Did I really want the Mavs to end up with him in this mock? Yes. Nonetheless I promise that’s just the way it turned out. Precious is exactly the type of high energy, versatile, inside player that can thrive with Luka running the show and KP spacing.

19. Brooklyn Nets (via PHI)
Desmond Bane | 6-5 guard | 22 years old, senior | TCU
The Nets are in win-now mode, and will be losing a lot of depth at guard this offseason. Bane is an elite shooter and above average defender with great intangibles. He excels at coming off screens, but there are legit questions about his explosiveness and short wingspan.

20. Miami Heat
Theo Maledon | 6-4 guard | 19 years old | ASVEL
Heat consider Cole Anthony, but ultimately decide they need someone with better passing skills. They’ll resign Dragic to a one-year deal and draft someone like Maledon, or sign Fred VanVleet to a max deal in FA.

21. Philadelphia 76ers (via OKC)
Cole Anthony | 6-3 guard | 20 years old, freshman | North Carolina
Philly ultimately needs someone who can score in bunches and Anthony fits the bill.

22. Denver Nuggets
Isaiah Stewart | 6-9 center | 19 years old, freshman | Washington
With Millsap and Plumlee expiring, the Nuggets take the energetic Stewart who can potentially, eventually play long stretches alongside Jokic.

23. Utah Jazz
Jahmi’us Ramsey | 6-4 guard | 19 years old, freshman | Texas Tech
Jazz are in win-now mode and need a point guard, but don’t like any of their options. They take the young combo guard and hope he develops sooner rather than later.

24. Milwaukee Bucks (via IND)
Ty-Shon Alexander | 6-4 guard | 22 years old, junior | Creighton
Bucks don’t really have any room for improvement other than the draft due to cap limitations. With Wes Matthews potentially walking, they take the Alexander whose defense and shooting will allow him to play immediately.

25. Oklahoma City (via DEN)
Jaden McDaniels | 6-10 forward | 19 years old, freshman | Washington
OKC will hope that being around Paul and Adams with set McDaniels straight. If they’re right, they may have the steal of the draft on their hands.

26. Boston Celtics
Robert Woodard | 6-7 wing/forward | 20 years old, sophomore | Mississippi State
Another wing for the Celts? If ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Plus Hayward’s gone after 2021.

27. New York Knicks (via LAC)
Tyler Bey | 6-7 wing | 22 years old | Colorado
He’ll play the 3, 4, and 5 for a Knicks teams trying to put together a roster that makes sense.

28. Los Angeles Lakers
Immanuel Quickley | 6-2 guard | 20 years old, sophomore | Kentucky
Quickley is a knockdown shooter whose impressive wingspan allows him to play solid D. He fits in well here.

29. Toronto Raptors
Jalen Smith | 6-10 forward/center | 20 years old, sophomore | Maryland
With Gasol and Ibaka both potentially walking, the Raptors need a big man. Smith can stretch the floor or operate in the pick and roll.

30. Boston Celtics (via MIL)
R.J. Hampton | 6-5 guard | 19 years old | New Zealand Breakers
This year’s Terrance Fergunson. Celts have the benefit of being able to stash him in the G League.

31. Dallas Mavericks (via GSW)
Devon Dotson | 6-2 guard | 20 years old, sophomore | Kansas
Mavs need someone besides Luka who can break down a defense, and Dotson has the quickest first step in the draft. If he adds a jumper he’ll be a lot to deal with.

[sefant77]

Really nice effort but some of the picks doesnt really make sense. There is no way in hell the Wolves are reaching for Okoro. Specially with them having #17 and the option to pick up a 3&D wing there. And there are allready reports that the Wolves are open trading the pick. They trade the pick or they pick the BPA (Edwards/Wiseman). They also wouldnt pick Terry at #17 when Achiuwa is still on the board. He would walk into the Wolves starting five.

Warriors also dont take Toppin. Either Edwards or Wiseman, thats pretty much an open secret (they like Edwards more)

You also forgot Poku

[tap2390]

Originally Posted by sefant77

Really nice effort but some of the picks doesnt really make sense. There is no way in hell the Wolves are reaching for Okoro. Specially with them having #17 and the option to pick up a 3&D wing there. And there are allready reports that the Wolves are open trading the pick. They trade the pick or they pick the BPA (Edwards/Wiseman). They also wouldnt pick Terry at #17 when Achiuwa is still on the board. He would walk into the Wolves starting five.

Warriors also dont take Toppin. Either Edwards or Wiseman, thats pretty much an open secret (they like Edwards more)

You also forgot Poku

Tried to change things up a bit. I don't think teams are as sold on Edwards as you indicate -- there are some legit questions about his work ethic, defense, and fit. Okoro has DPOY potential and would slot in at the 4 next to KAT. I think there will be a run on wings leading to some of the guards dropping.

Terry at 17 makes sense if you think Okoro is a 4. Wolves desperately need shooting and Terry is the best shooter in the draft.

Warriors take Toppin because they don't see a trade on the horizon and he brings an NBA-ready skillset that allows them to keep their floor spacing offense. Wiseman is a physical freak, but he doesn't have nearly the track record and offensive skill that someone like Deandre Ayton came in with. Just my $.02.

[Scoobay]

Originally Posted by tap2390

Tried to change things up a bit. I don't think teams are as sold on Edwards as you indicate -- there are some legit questions about his work ethic, defense, and fit. Okoro has DPOY potential and would slot in at the 4 next to KAT. I think there will be a run on wings leading to some of the guards dropping.

Terry at 17 makes sense if you think Okoro is a 4. Wolves desperately need shooting and Terry is the best shooter in the draft.

Warriors take Toppin because they don't see a trade on the horizon and he brings an NBA-ready skillset that allows them to keep their floor spacing offense. Wiseman is a physical freak, but he doesn't have nearly the track records and offensive skill that someone like Deandre Ayton came in with. Just my $.02.

Not sure about Okoro at #1 either but i guess you could just as easily mock up a trade down for them where they then pick up Okoro.

Tankathon has Maxey going to the Mavs - not exactly who i'd have in mind. Interested to see that you have him going to the Kings... have they given up on Buddy?

you don't think Poku will go first round? i think one of the teams with multiple picks will take a flyer on him if the Mavs don't.

[tap2390]

Originally Posted by Scoobay

Not sure about Okoro at #1 either but i guess you could just as easily mock up a trade down for them where they then pick up Okoro.

Tankathon has Maxey going to the Mavs - not exactly who i'd have in mind. Interested to see that you have him going to the Kings... have they given up on Buddy?

you don't think Poku will go first round? i think one of the teams with multiple picks will take a flyer on him if the Mavs don't.

I'm personally not seeing it with Poku. I do understand the Davis Bertans comparisons, but his frame is the furthest thing from NBA-ready. He's one of those "two years away from being two years away" guys IMO. But, like you said, I could see a team taking him second half of the first round and stashing him.

[Scoobay]

Originally Posted by tap2390

I'm personally not seeing it with Poku. I do understand the Davis Bertans comparisons, but his frame is the furthest thing from NBA-ready. He's one of those "two years away from being two years away" guys IMO. But, like you said, I could see a team taking him second half of the first round and stashing him.

I agree actually - i don't really want the Mavs in on him because i think we've got to go for someone who can provide more immediate impact. He's definitely a few years away. UNLESS Donnie sees something and wants him - after skipping on Giannis i'm inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt.

I did look up Amar Sylla and he looks like he's just got stupid length and athletcism. he's a project i'd go for because he looks like he'd be a difference on maker on defense right away.

[rimrocker]

Originally Posted by tap2390

I'm personally not seeing it with Poku. I do understand the Davis Bertans comparisons, but his frame is the furthest thing from NBA-ready. He's one of those "two years away from being two years away" guys IMO. But, like you said, I could see a team taking him second half of the first round and stashing him.

Poku has Boston written all over him.
Boston would be foolish not to take him at 26 or 30 and we would be foolish not to take him at 31 if he is still on the board.

He'd be a great pick for us with KP's injury issues and would provide some insurance. He's also a perfect fit and a Donnie type of pick. #18 is probably too high but could even see us trading back and adding a pick if he is our guy.

I think he has the highest potential of anyone outside the lotto and could eventually be a top 5 player out of this draft. Seven footers with his skills are extremely rare to the point of non-existence. Biggest question for him is whether he can stay healthy with that frame.

[EricaLubarsky]

Terry's best cast is the other NBA Terry. His worst case looks like Seth Curry.

Small SG who can't really pass, scrappy steals guy who will get abused because of size, good stroke, pretty good decision making

[EricaLubarsky]

Oct 16 is a long way away

[rimrocker]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

Oct 16 is a long way away

Just under 6 weeks (40 days).

[tap2390]

Here's my five most underrated guys in the 2020 draft. Before I begin, a bit of a not-so-humble brag. Last May I posted my five underrated guys for the 2019 draft:

Originally Posted by tap2390

Five Underrated Players to Watch

1) Tyler Herro - kid may not have the ideal frame, but he can absolutely shoot lights out... his ability to shoot off screens seals the deal for me

2) Keldon Johnson - smooth small forward reminiscent of Jayson Tatum... more advanced skillset than Reddish and Little

3) Daniel Gafford - said it above, but his defensive versatility and rim-running is exactly what you need from a center

4) Brandon Clarke - undersized, but his motor, timing, and tenacity are all elite.. like Gafford fits the role of the modern 5 very well

5) Matisse Thybulle - elite perimeter defender with higher offensive upside than Andre Roberson

Needless to say, I killed it:

Tyler Herro averaged 13 ppg on 43/39/87 splits. He's averaging 16 in the playoffs and playing over 30 mpg for the Heat.

Keldon Johnson ended the season with two back-to-back 24-point performances. He averaged 14.1 points on 64% shooting in the bubble. He also averaged 1.4 threes on 65% from downtown. He even managed to get some praise from Pop.

Daniel Gafford led all rookies in blocks and shot over 70% from the field as one of the few bright spots on the Bulls.

Brandon Clarke finished 4th in rookie of the year voting.

Matisse Thybulle is already one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.


Should the Mavs hire me and pay me to watch more Youtube highlights from home? Yes. Nonetheless I'll continue to share my guru-like armchair scout revelations for free dissemination to the masses. I digress. Without further ado:


Five Underrated Players

1) Isaiah Stewart -> I've been on the Isaiah Stewart bandwagon for quite some time now. Every time I see his film I just can't imagine him not succeeding in the league. He's absolutely tenacious and relentless, but also has moments showcasing finesse and touch. He will have a consistent midrange jumper in the NBA, he shot 77% from the line with over six attempts a game. And, he brought his best against the best:

29 & 12 vs. Arizona.
16 & 7 & 2 blocks/ 2 steals vs. Arizona.
23 & 8 & 4 blocks vs. Colorado.
25 & 19 & 5 blocks & 2 steals vs. Oregon
21 & 10 vs. Gonzaga

2) Kira Lewis -> I think he's the first point off the board, but I still find that he's underrated by fans. He's a lot like Ja Morant.

3) Immanuel Quickley -> was written off by a lot of people after his poor freshman year, but the guy shot 43% from deep and over 92% from the line on over 5 attempts a game. He's also quick laterally and a legitimately good on ball defender. He would be straight fire with someone like Luka. He's great at getting open and into passing lanes.

4) Jahmi'us Ramsey -> one of the youngest players in the draft (just turned 19 in June) but a very skilled combo guard who can score at all three levels. Not crazy athletic, but his finishing skills remind me a bit of Donovan Mitchell. He'll take some time, but I see him being a complete player at the next level. He's strong, crafty, can finish with both hands, and has a consistent shooting stroke.

5) Tyrell Terry -> kid can just plain shoot. He can shoot off screen, shoot spotting up, shoot off the dribble.... kid can shoot. He's also craftier than you think around the rim, where he made over 60% of his shots. His size will be an issue in pick and roll defense, but if he dedicates himself to improving lateral quickness and fighting around screens he can be a steal.

[rimrocker]

Originally Posted by tap2390

Here's my five most underrated guys in the 2020 draft. Before I begin, a bit of a not-so-humble brag. Last May I posted my five underrated guys for the 2019 draft:




Needless to say, I killed it:

Tyler Herro averaged 13 ppg on 43/39/87 splits. He's averaging 16 in the playoffs and playing over 30 mpg for the Heat.

Keldon Johnson ended the season with two back-to-back 24-point performances. He averaged 14.1 points on 64% shooting in the bubble. He also averaged 1.4 threes on 65% from downtown. He even managed to get some praise from Pop.

Daniel Gafford led all rookies in blocks and shot over 70% from the field as one of the few bright spots on the Bulls.

Brandon Clarke finished 4th in rookie of the year voting.

Matisse Thybulle is already one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.


Should the Mavs hire me and pay me to watch more Youtube highlights from home? Yes. Nonetheless I'll continue to share my guru-like armchair scout revelations for free dissemination to the masses. I digress. Without further ado:


Five Underrated Players

1) Isaiah Stewart -> I've been on the Isaiah Stewart bandwagon for quite some time now. Every time I see his film I just can't imagine him not succeeding in the league. He's absolutely tenacious and relentless, but also has moments showcasing finesse and touch. He will have a consistent midrange jumper in the NBA, he shot 77% from the line with over six attempts a game. And, he brought his best against the best:

29 & 12 vs. Arizona.
16 & 7 & 2 blocks/ 2 steals vs. Arizona.
23 & 8 & 4 blocks vs. Colorado.
25 & 19 & 5 blocks & 2 steals vs. Oregon
21 & 10 vs. Gonzaga

2) Kira Lewis -> I think he's the first point off the board, but I still find that he's underrated by fans. He's a lot like Ja Morant.

3) Immanuel Quickley -> was written off by a lot of people after his poor freshman year, but the guy shot 43% from deep and over 92% from the line on over 5 attempts a game. He's also quick laterally and a legitimately good on ball defender. He would be straight fire with someone like Luka. He's great at getting open and into passing lanes.

4) Jahmi'us Ramsey -> one of the youngest players in the draft (just turned 19 in June) but a very skilled combo guard who can score at all three levels. Not crazy athletic, but his finishing skills remind me a bit of Donovan Mitchell. He'll take some time, but I see him being a complete player at the next level. He's strong, crafty, can finish with both hands, and has a consistent shooting stroke.

5) Tyrell Terry -> kid can just plain shoot. He can shoot off screen, shoot spotting up, shoot off the dribble.... kid can shoot. He's also craftier than you think around the rim, where he made over 60% of his shots. His size will be an issue in pick and roll defense, but if he dedicates himself to improving lateral quickness and fighting around screens he can be a steal.

Stewart is definitely a guy I'd love to see on our roster but at 25% 3pt shooting I'm wondering how much PT he'd get in Carlisle's system.
I'm also a little leary about strong undersize big men coming from college because their games don't always transfer well to the NBA. I remember Thomas Robinson being an absolute beast at the collegiate level because he was strong as an ox but he struggled and was basically a lotto bust in the NBA because he faced bigger and faster players.

I'm not sure what Stewart would give us that WCS doesn't. I wouldn't mind taking him at #31 if Poku isn't there but no way do I take Stewart over Poku.

I do agree we need someone with Stewart's strength on our roster but I think there are better means of getting them and would rather roll the dice on a solid wing or a player with a skillset that is more conducive to the new NBA.

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by tap2390

Here's my five most underrated guys in the 2020 draft. Before I begin, a bit of a not-so-humble brag. Last May I posted my five underrated guys for the 2019 draft:




Needless to say, I killed it:

Tyler Herro averaged 13 ppg on 43/39/87 splits. He's averaging 16 in the playoffs and playing over 30 mpg for the Heat.

Keldon Johnson ended the season with two back-to-back 24-point performances. He averaged 14.1 points on 64% shooting in the bubble. He also averaged 1.4 threes on 65% from downtown. He even managed to get some praise from Pop.

Daniel Gafford led all rookies in blocks and shot over 70% from the field as one of the few bright spots on the Bulls.

Brandon Clarke finished 4th in rookie of the year voting.

Matisse Thybulle is already one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.


Should the Mavs hire me and pay me to watch more Youtube highlights from home? Yes. Nonetheless I'll continue to share my guru-like armchair scout revelations for free dissemination to the masses. I digress. Without further ado:


Five Underrated Players

1) Isaiah Stewart -> I've been on the Isaiah Stewart bandwagon for quite some time now. Every time I see his film I just can't imagine him not succeeding in the league. He's absolutely tenacious and relentless, but also has moments showcasing finesse and touch. He will have a consistent midrange jumper in the NBA, he shot 77% from the line with over six attempts a game. And, he brought his best against the best:

29 & 12 vs. Arizona.
16 & 7 & 2 blocks/ 2 steals vs. Arizona.
23 & 8 & 4 blocks vs. Colorado.
25 & 19 & 5 blocks & 2 steals vs. Oregon
21 & 10 vs. Gonzaga

2) Kira Lewis -> I think he's the first point off the board, but I still find that he's underrated by fans. He's a lot like Ja Morant.

3) Immanuel Quickley -> was written off by a lot of people after his poor freshman year, but the guy shot 43% from deep and over 92% from the line on over 5 attempts a game. He's also quick laterally and a legitimately good on ball defender. He would be straight fire with someone like Luka. He's great at getting open and into passing lanes.

4) Jahmi'us Ramsey -> one of the youngest players in the draft (just turned 19 in June) but a very skilled combo guard who can score at all three levels. Not crazy athletic, but his finishing skills remind me a bit of Donovan Mitchell. He'll take some time, but I see him being a complete player at the next level. He's strong, crafty, can finish with both hands, and has a consistent shooting stroke.

5) Tyrell Terry -> kid can just plain shoot. He can shoot off screen, shoot spotting up, shoot off the dribble.... kid can shoot. He's also craftier than you think around the rim, where he made over 60% of his shots. His size will be an issue in pick and roll defense, but if he dedicates himself to improving lateral quickness and fighting around screens he can be a steal.

Great stuff thanks! I like Terry a lot too. May be a better athlete than he appears? I think he and Kira will rise as we get closer to the draft.

[mac222b]

Unless it’s an absolute no brainer move, I would be really happy to see them stay put and make two picks in a relatively deep draft. Someone good from the group of Nesmith, Precious, Bey/Bey, Green, Kira, Maxey, Cole Anthony, Tyrell Terry, Poku, Maledon, Rj Hampton will be there at 18. My personal opinion is Kira, Precious and Nesmith won’t make it to us.

I had another look at Cassius Stanley who could be there at 31. 6-6 and Uber athletic, nice stroke. Will have to loom at Quiickley again.

[mac222b]

I’m imagining an off-season where we add something like Saddiq Bey, Cassius Stanley in the draft. Someone like Saric with Full MLE (he’s restricted unfortunately) or Derrick Jones Jr., Connaughton with part of MLE. And a couple of big 3/4/5 bodies for vet min (Aaron Baynes, Millsap, JayMichael? Though they will get more from someone).

Keep power relatively dry for FA but still get younger, tougher and more athletic.

[mac222b]

I wonder if we could get off enough contracts to throw a serious offer at Christian Wood, Jerami Grant, Lug Dort, Gallo, Bertrans, Joe Harris level of guys that will be above MLE.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by mac222b

I wonder if we could get off enough contracts to throw a serious offer at Christian Wood, Jerami Grant, Lug Dort, Gallo, Bertrans, Joe Harris level of guys that will be above MLE.

I love Jerami Grant. Don't think they can get him though.

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

I love Jerami Grant. Don't think they can get him though.

I don’t think so either. I think Denver is going to offer 4yr. 60m or something like it. I just hope we use the MLE if someone decent is available and not “plan powder” part 11. MLE is a 3yr. minimum so that rules out olds like Millsap and Baynes. Saric isn’t a great defender but I think he would fit well here and could give us some secondary shot creation. Phoenix probably matches MLE for him though.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by mac222b

I don’t think so either. I think Denver is going to offer 4yr. 60m or something like it. I just hope we use the MLE if someone decent is available and not “plan powder” part 11. MLE is a 3yr. minimum so that rules out olds like Millsap and Baynes. Saric isn’t a great defender but I think he would fit well here and could give us some secondary shot creation. Phoenix probably matches MLE for him though.

So you’re not in favor of bringing Burke back, then?

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

So you’re not in favor of bringing Burke back, then?

I’m one of the most adamant around here that we desperately need another secondary ball handler/ creator and I don’t think Brunson is the answer. I think Brunson is a good player on a good contract and still has room to improve but not a guy who can consistently get his own. KP just hasn’t been that efficient in the post or off the bounce. He seemed more efficient in the mid range against the Clipper and maybe that’s a harbinger of better things. But he lacks the quicks and explosion that give, say, Anthony Davis his space for wide open mid range shots. He lacks the strength and obviously the vision of Jokic. Hardaway? Seth? They should be 4th, 5th, 6th options. Brunson too.

I think teams are always going to scheme to get the ball out of Lukas hands and luckily we have RC who is crafty enough to counter.. But we desperately need a guy quick off the bounce who can make a team pay and also simply to give Luka some rest from the heavy useage. I like Burke but I worry about having/paying/playing so many small guys without the defensive chops of Lowrey and Van Vleet. With MLE the priority should be big long wings who can guard 3-5. Maybe we get one or two guys like that in the draft? Maybe we don’t love the options in FA and give Burke a chunk of the MLE? I just wonder about committing resources and minutes to Burke if you have already have smallish guards in Brunson and Seth not to mention what happens if we can’t offload Delon? Where will the minutes come from? Maybe we look to move Brunson in the right deal?

I think Burke was/is for us a smaller version of what Utah traded for in Clarkson. They were another team that lacked creators, even pre Bogdan injury. If they think he can give reliably give the team Clarkson like production for half the cost maybe that’s a good value? I think Clarkson gets someone’s MLE or close to it.

[sefant77]

yeah you dont throw away a top-3 shooter in the NBA on a bargain contract. Yes, his defense is pretty bad but your target should be to improve the overall defense so you find more spots to play Curry heavy minutes without trading points because of bad defense.

Richardson is an UFA next summer. If they want him, they can also just overpay him a few million each year. He wont walk away from additional 10m+ with his "limited" career earnings so far

[DevinHarriswillstart]

Or just draft a 3 and D guy? Shocking how many people are underestimating the value of the 18 pick in this draft. There are a TON of quality players that will be available then.

[EricaLubarsky]

Originally Posted by DevinHarriswillstart

Or just draft a 3 and D guy? Shocking how many people are underestimating the value of the 18 pick in this draft. There are a TON of quality players that will be available then.

To be fair, historically our odds aren't great with those picks. Outside the top 10, the odds of getting a strong player are fairly low.

18th
20% were starters or stars.
25% were role players with starting potential (5th man to 10th man)
55% were bench players or total busts.

31st
5% were starters or stars (no stars were drafted at 31)
50% were role players with starting potential (5th man to 10th man)
45% were bench players or total busts.

Probablly less than 50% with each pick that we'll get a player capable of starting for a playoff team, but uness we get a super sweet deal, I think it's the best wager we can make. You can flip a coin twice and get tails twice. We may very well fail with both picks, but if we get even one starter on a cheap deal out of those two picks, I think we have to go that way.

[DevinHarriswillstart]

Well there is no way covid doesn't affect the cap, and that means you're gonna have to get smart with contracts. That means taking the draft serious regardless of whether we're a playoff team or not. If 18 gets us a third star in a trader, then great, all the power to doing it. Otherwise, the talent available at that pick is definitely worth a shot. Bey, Terry, Lewis Jr are all going to be rotation players at the very least IMO. I just feel like you can easily get a Josh Richardson versus having to give up big value to get him.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by DevinHarriswillstart

Well there is no way covid doesn't affect the cap, and that means you're gonna have to get smart with contracts. That means taking the draft serious regardless of whether we're a playoff team or not. If 18 gets us a third star in a trader, then great, all the power to doing it. Otherwise, the talent available at that pick is definitely worth a shot. Bey, Terry, Lewis Jr are all going to be rotation players at the very least IMO. I just feel like you can easily get a Josh Richardson versus having to give up big value to get him.

I think the league might actually take some risks in an effort to prevent the pandemic from affecting the cap. While it would seem logical to lower it, I've heard that they're very focused on preventing a future cap spike like the one that enabled Durant to sign with GS. It will be interesting how they handle this.

Just an aside, and not meant to argue your overall point. Obviously, being smart with talent acquisition is important, and that includes finding contributors on rookie contracts, even in normal cap situations.

[EricaLubarsky]

It's hard to imagine what will happen with viewership (profits) falling so much.

The biggest losses are nationally televised game viewership, which is fine for the regular season because they're making up the revenue with online/digital/a la carte packages, but now the the playoffs are here which means every game is nationally televised and the numbers are down precipitously (12% year over year) and it's not a one-year trend. We've been falling for four years despite fairly strong profits.

The NBA could try to correct for COVID by doing a future projection, but with four consecutive years of viewership shrinkage, it's hard to paint a rosey picture-- or even know where we're headed.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

It's hard to imagine what will happen with viewership (profits) falling so much.

The biggest losses are nationally televised game viewership, which is fine for the regular season because they're making up the revenue with online/digital/a la carte packages, but now the the playoffs are here which means every game is nationally televised and the numbers are down precipitously (12% year over year) and it's not a one-year trend. We've been falling for four years despite fairly strong profits.

The NBA could try to correct for COVID by doing a future projection, but with four consecutive years of viewership shrinkage, it's hard to paint a rosey picture-- or even know where we're headed.

I agree, that's an issue they're facing. I saw demo percentages the other day, and they were strong, so it seems like this is a result of cord cutting (fewer viewers for anything). I know I'm not paying for cable just to watch sports, when streaming is way more convenient and cheaper (for now).

I gotta think the sports world will figure out how to get over this hurdle, eventually. But yeah, it's currently a problem.

[DevinHarriswillstart]

It still baffles me how they can even keep track of viewership with regards to streamers. I just bought hulu live for a month then cancelled it once the Mavs season was over.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by DevinHarriswillstart

It still baffles me how they can even keep track of viewership with regards to streamers. I just bought hulu live for a month then cancelled it once the Mavs season was over.

How was it? Worth the money? Did you get the FSSW feed, or the national feed?

[DevinHarriswillstart]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

How was it? Worth the money? Did you get the FSSW feed, or the national feed?

Both. It's really expensive (60 a month), but you can cancel or switch to the regular streaming anytime. In fact, since I was already a customer, I only had to pay for half the month when I singed up, and then the 60 after that.

Negative is the feeds do get interrupted. It's something that streaming live hasn't quite figured out yet.

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by DevinHarriswillstart

Both. It's really expensive (60 a month), but you can cancel or switch to the regular streaming anytime. In fact, since I was already a customer, I only had to pay for half the month when I singed up, and then the 60 after that.

Negative is the feeds do get interrupted. It's something that streaming live hasn't quite figured out yet.

$60 is too much.

[BPo001]

Shams Charania: The NBA and NBPA have agreed to push back key dates such as Oct. 16 draft, Oct. 18 free agency and 2020-21 season, sources tell @The Athletic @Stadium. New dates will be determined later. – via Twitter ShamsCharania

[sefant77]

Draft moved Back to november 18th...aff

[tap2390]

Originally Posted by sefant77

Draft moved Back to november 18th...aff

[tap2390]

1) Anthony Edwards
2) James Wiseman
3) Isaac Okoro
4) Obi Toppin
5) Tyrese Haliburton
6) Killian Hayes
7) Deni Avdija
8) Patrick Williams
9) Devin Vassell
10) Tyrell Terry
11) Tyrese Maxey
12) Onyeka Okongwu
13) Saddiq Bey
14) Jahmius Ramsey
15) Kira Lewis
16) Josh Green
17) Precious Achiuwa
18) Isaiah Stewart
19) Aaron Nesmith
20) Cole Anthony
21) Immanuel Quickley
22) Desmond Bane
23) Theo Maledon
24) Tyler Bey
25) Paul Reed
26) Jalen Smith
27) Nico Mannion
28) Devin Dotson
29) Elijah Hughes
30) Robert Woodard

OFF MY BOARD: LaMelo Ball (talent not worth the hassle)

JUST MISSED THE CUT: Cassius Stanley, Jaden McDaniels, Tre Jones

[mac222b]

Originally Posted by tap2390

1) Anthony Edwards
2) James Wiseman
3) Isaac Okoro
4) Obi Toppin
5) Tyrese Haliburton
6) Killian Hayes
7) Deni Avdija
8) Patrick Williams
9) Devin Vassell
10) Tyrell Terry
11) Tyrese Maxey
12) Onyeka Okongwu
13) Saddiq Bey
14) Jahmius Ramsey
15) Kira Lewis
16) Josh Green
17) Precious Achiuwa
18) Isaiah Stewart
19) Aaron Nesmith
20) Cole Anthony
21) Immanuel Quickley
22) Desmond Bane
23) Theo Maledon
24) Tyler Bey
25) Paul Reed
26) Jalen Smith
27) Nico Mannion
28) Devin Dotson
29) Elijah Hughes
30) Robert Woodard

OFF MY BOARD: LaMelo Ball (talent not worth the hassle)

JUST MISSED THE CUT: Cassius Stanley, Jaden McDaniels, Tre Jones

I’ve developed a crush on McDaniels. He really knows how to get to his spots and rise up with length. Like Michael Porter Jr. Uses the glass well. Potentially good defender and rebounder. Of course he’s not nearly as polished as Porter but he has gifts. Kind of guy that won’t get past OKC or Boston as we like to say around here. I could see Portland taking him as they go BPA and don’t mind waiting on young guys. He’s like a more skilled Bazley only less cerebral.

[KillerLeft]

Man, I wholeheartedly agree about anyone whose last name is Ball. F that.

[EricaLubarsky]

Ball gives me Josh Howard.vibes

[KillerLeft]

Originally Posted by EricaLubarsky

Ball gives me Josh Howard.vibes

In a good way, or a bad way? That guy gave the team a lot before it went south.

[EricaLubarsky]

Originally Posted by KillerLeft

In a good way, or a bad way? That guy gave the team a lot before it went south.

Both.

Super skilled. Lots of motivation, but lacks social skills or leadership. May not have longetivity in the league because of attitude and ability to get along with others.