By Chad Ford
ESPN Insider
Finally, we know for sure who is and isn't in the draft. Thursday's deadline for underclassmen to withdraw saw several international players who had been projected in the first round -- Martynas Andriuskevicius, Kosta Perovic, Peja Samardziski, Tiago Splitter and Roko Leni Ukic -- bail out, leaving plenty of room in the lottery and the late first round for players to move up.
How weak did the draft get with all of the pull-outs? In my mind, the true first-rounders stop after No. 21. Everyone below, in a better draft, would be good second-round picks.
Knowing who's in the draft is a relief. Now, if we just knew who's drafting whom. There's a flurry of trade talk going on right now that could turn the draft completely on its head and make a mockery of this mock.
The first eight teams in the drafting order -- the Magic, Clippers, Bulls, Bobcats, Wizards, Hawks, Suns and Raptors -- are all in serious trade talks. A few -- the Clippers, Bobcats and Suns -- appear likely to make deals. The others are still trying to sort out the pieces.
Until they do, take everything you read here with a grain of salt. We'll update this mock one more time on Thursday morning.
1. ORLANDO MAGIC
Emeka Okafor
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 257 | AGE: 21
The gap between Okafor and Dwight Howard for the No. 1 pick narrows daily. If T-Mac is going to be traded (and that looks inevitable now), everything changes. If the Magic get veterans in return, a guy like Okafor makes the most sense. If the trade is for lottery picks and young players, Howard will be be the guy. The Magic like both, but one source claims that over the past few days, they've started to lean toward Howard. We still feel like Okafor is the best choice for the Magic, no matter what they do with T-Mac, but don't be surprised to see Howard on top of this list.
Insider scouting report on Emeka Okafor
2. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Dwight Howard
SW ATLANTA CHRISTIAN H.S. | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10¼ | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18
It now looks like a foregone conclusion that the Clippers are going to trade this pick. Whoever moves up will want Howard, so we're taking him out of the No. 4 doghouse. The front runner, according to several league sources, is the Bobcats. They're willing to offer the No. 4 and a future first (that they'll pick up in the expansion draft), and they also are willing to swallow a bad contract or two to make the Clippers' cap situation more desirable. The Hawks have been trying to get this pick as well, (offering the No. 6 and No. 17), but two things are working in the Bobcats' favor. One, they're willing to make a deal now, and they'll take either Okafor or Howard, whoever falls to them. The Hawks only want Howard. Two, the Clippers have some concern that the guy they want may not be around at No. 6. Grabbing the Bobcats' fourth pick is a safer proposition.
Insider scouting report on Dwight Howard
3. CHICAGO BULLS
Andre Iguodala
ARIZONA | SOPHOMORE | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 217 | AGE: 19
The decision is down to Iguodala, Luol Deng, Ben Gordon and Josh Childress. However, of those four, Iguodala has the most upside and is the best fit. He's the most athletic, the best defender, a superior passer and may be the most ready to step in and contribute right away. Iguodala's the guy who gets them to the playoffs the quickest -- that is, unless, the Bulls trade this pick.
Insider scouting report on Andre Iguodala
4. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Shaun Livingston
PEORIA H.S. (ILL.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7½ | WEIGHT: 186 | AGE: 18
This is a tough call. Assuming the Clippers and Bobcats swap picks, L.A. likely will choose between Iguodala, Livingston, Gordon and Devin Harris here. According to our mock, Iguodala will be off the board. Livingston would be the best choice if the Bobcats were making the pick, but the Clippers, who want to make the playoffs badly next year, may not want to wait. Gordon and Harris are both ready to play right now (with the Clippers leaning toward Harris), but neither player has the upside of Livingston. This pick could go any of those four ways, but long term (aren't the Clippers always thinking long term?) Livingston is the best pick. If the Bobcats keep the pick, it will be between Deng and Childress.
Insider scouting report on Shaun Livingston
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Luol Deng
DUKE | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 19
Landing Deng is the best-case scenario for the Wizards. Why have you been reading so much about Deng in Chicago? Because the Bulls know Ernie Grunfeld wants him and are trying to get Washington to send Jarvis Hayes and the No. 5 pick in exchange for the No. 3. The Wizards already have more small forwards than any team in the league, but Deng is way ahead of both Jared Jeffries and Hayes. They'll also give Childress and Andris Biedrins a long look here.
Insider scouting report on Luol Deng
6. ATLANTA HAWKS
Josh Smith
OAK HILL ACADEMY | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8¼ | WEIGHT: 221 | AGE: 18
The Hawks are working on a trade for this pick with the Clippers, but right now it appears that the Bobcats have a better shot of landing it. If Atlanta keeps the pick, its preference is Livingston. However, in this mock he's gone, meaning they'll likely go with Josh Smith. He's gotten some bad press over the past few weeks, but his big-time athleticism and game will sell some tickets in Atlanta.
Insider scouting report on Josh Smith
7. PHOENIX SUNS
Devin Harris
WISCONSIN | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 20
The Suns have given long looks to four point guards -- Harris, Gordon, Livingston and Jameer Nelson. Leandrinho Barbosa is more of a combo guard, and it looks like Milos Vujanic might not be coming next season, after all. Gordon's workout was Phoenix's most impressive, but they just got done shipping out a little two guard forced to play the point (see ya Starbury). Harris isn't as ready to step right in and help Phoenix as Gordon may be, but he's a pure point guard, something the team has yearned for since Jason Kidd left town. Is he the next Kevin Johnson?
Insider scouting report on Devin Harris
8. TORONTO RAPTORS
Ben Gordon
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-2¼ | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 21
The Raptors need a big in the worst way and both Podkolzine and Biedrins are real options here. But I'm not sure new GM Rob Babcock has the stomach to take on a project right now. Gordon's workouts have been lights out. A combo of Gordon and Vince Carter in the backcourt makes a lot of sense.
Insider scouting report on Ben Gordon
9. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Josh Childress
STANFORD | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7¼ | WEIGHT: 196 | AGE: 20
The Bulls, Bobcats and Wizards all love Childress, so he could end up going much higher. However, if he does slip, he won't get past Philly. Childress' length, athleticism and great defensive effort are a great fit in Philly.
Insider scouting report on Josh Childress
10. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Andris Biedrins
LATVIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18
Conventional wisdom last week said the Cavs were after Luke Jackson, a college-seasoned swingman who could step right in and help LeBron. The Cavs are still looking for that guy, but sources claim that the Cavs prefer to grab a big man in the draft and find a swingman in free agency or via a trade. Adding Biedrins, a tough, 7-footer who blocks shots and rebounds, makes some sense. Pavel Podkolzine is another guy who could land here, especially if Cleveland ends up cutting a deal with a team like the Mavs, who are hot on Pavel's trail.
Insider scouting report on Andris Biedrins
11. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Pavel Podkolzine
RUSSIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-5 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 19
The Warriors like Biedrins, but he's just off the board. The reward really starts outweighing the risk if Podkolzine slips this low. There isn't a player on the board worth passing him up for now. The Warriors look like they're losing both Erick Dampier and Adonal Foyle, meaning they'll have a gaping hole to fill in the middle. No one fills it better than Pavel.
Insider scouting report on Pavel Podkolzine
12. SEATTLE SUPERSONICS
Kirk Snyder
NEVADA | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 228 | AGE: 21
Snyder's stock has soared since he hit the workout circuit. He's a better athlete and shooter than most gave him credit for. With the Sonics exploring numerous Ray Allen trade possibilites, Snyder becomes insurance. If they trade Ray, Snyder steps in at the two. If they keep Allen, Snyder has the ball-handling ability and court vision to play a Brent Barry-type role on the Sonics next season at the point. Don't be surprised if the Sonics trade down either. Several teams like Utah and Boston are trying to package picks in an effort to move up. The Sonics also have a thing for Brazilian Anderson Varejao and wouldn't mind picking up another late-first-rounder to nab him.
Insider scouting report on Kirk Snyder
13. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Luke Jackson
OREGON | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 212 | AGE: 22
The Blazers are trying to package this pick, along with the one they have apparently acquired from New Jersey (No. 22) in an effort to move up in the draft. Some sources have targeted Toronto (at No. 8) as their destination. If they stay here, there will be enormous pressure to take Jackson. He's worked out great, is a good kid with local ties and fits a need as the sharp-shooting swingman they've been missing for a long time. Sebastian Telfair will also get consideration here. Coach Mo Cheeks wants him badly and there's a chance he may not be on the board when the Blazer pick again at 22 or 23.
Insider scouting report on Luke Jackson
14. UTAH JAZZ
Sergei Monya
RUSSIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 20
The Jazz claim they have not made a promise to Monya. Fine. But they still have interest, and the Russian-Marc Fleisher (also Andrei Kirilenko's agent) connection is too good to pass up. Besides, Monya is the most NBA-ready Euro in the draft. They'll love him in Utah.
Insider scouting report on Sergei Monya
15. BOSTON CELTICS
Robert Swift
BAKERSFIELD H.S. (CALIF.) | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 18
The Celtics want Monya, but it's unlikely he'll get past Utah at No. 14. That means the decision comes down to Araujo, Robert Swift or Peter John Ramos. The Celtics like all three, but after spending an hour talking with Danny Ainge last week, my gut said Araujo. This week, after talking to everyone else in the league, my head says Swift. Head wins over heart every time in these mock drafts.
Insider scouting report on Robert Swift
16. UTAH JAZZ
Rafael Araujo
BYU | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 280 | AGE: 23
The Jazz have a no-lose situation here if either Arajuo or Swift is still on the board. The Jazz love both players. There's a chance neither could be. The Warriors have been looking at Swift as high as No. 11. The Sonics have interest in Araujo at No. 12. But in this scenario, the local product is a great fit -- a tough big guy who can step in and play right away. If both guys are off the board, Kris Humphries could be the pick here.
Insider scouting report on Rafael Araujo
17. ATLANTA HAWKS
Al Jefferson
PRENTISS H.S. (MISS.) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9¾ | WEIGHT: 263 | AGE: 18
He measured well in Chicago and has been moving up with some strong workouts over the past few weeks. Jefferson isn't the best athlete in the draft at his size, but he's quick off the floor and is as consistent as a high school kid can get. He could do some damage in the paint for the Hawks next season.
Insider scouting report on Al Jefferson
18. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
Kris Humphries
MINNESOTA | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9½ | WEIGHT: 238 | AGE: 20
The way Humphries has worked out the past few days, he could end up going even higher on draft night. The Jazz at No. 14, the Celtics at No. 15 and the Hawks at No. 17 are all showing interest. J.R. Smith is another candidate for the position, but the Hornets are among the most conservative franchises in the NBA. Taking a college freshman is still a reach for them, but Humphries' ability to play the four and the three could really help out the Hornets in the long term. He's a better prospect than David West, whom they nabbed at the same position last year.
Insider scouting report on Kris Humphries
19. MIAMI HEAT
Jameer Nelson
SAINT JOSEPH'S | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0½ | WEIGHT: 199 | AGE: 23
They want Swift, but he's probably off the board here. They also took a long look at Peter John Ramos, but a poor workout in Miami in front of Pat Riley probably killed his chances of getting drafted. While many of you keep writing to point out the Nelson is a poor fit in Miami (too undersized to play in the backcourt with Dwyane Wade) I just write what I hear. Riley likes guys with intangibles who can play now. Nelson has a lot of that. David Harrison is another possibility here.
Insider scouting report on Jameer Nelson
20. DENVER NUGGETS
J.R. Smith
ST. BENEDICT PREP (N.J.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 227 | AGE: 18
Smith's star potential and his ability to contribute right away could put him much higher on draft night (the Blazers and Jazz both initially showed interest). However, slipping to here isn't out of the question. It would be a god send for both Smith and the Nuggets. The Nuggets covet three things in their shooting guard -- size, shooting and athletcism. Smith has all three. It's a slam dunk if he's still on the board. If he isn't, and Snyder, Monya, Swift or Podkolzine don't fall, don't count out a late sleeper -- Western Carolina's Kevin Martin.
Insider scouting report on J.R. Smith
21. UTAH JAZZ
Anderson Varejao
BRAZIL | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
The Jazz have already drafted one Brazilian (Araujo at No. 16). Why not two? The team would've liked to have landed Humphries here, but if he's gone, Varejao may be the guy. He's been working out great and is willing to stay at one of Europe's top clubs for another season if the Jazz want him to.
Insider scouting report on Anderson Varejao
22. NEW JERSEY NETS
Peter John Ramos
PUERTO RICO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-3¼ | WEIGHT: 266 | AGE: 19
The rumor running rampant around the league is that this pick will actually belong to the Blazers on draft night. Whether the Nets sent it as part of a larger deal for Shareef Abdur-Rahim, or whether they just sent the pick for cash, chances are that the Blazers may be making this pick. Then again, the Blazers are trying to move up on draft night as well (their target appears to be the Raptors at No. 8) and may end up sending this pick again. If the Blazers keep it, Ramos could be their guy. Eventually, they need to start grooming a replacement for Theo Ratliff and Dale Davis, and Ramos, who has impressed numerous GMs lately, seems like a good candidate.
Insider scouting report on Peter John Ramos
23. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Sebastian Telfair
LINCOLN H.S. (BROOKLYN, N.Y.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 5-11 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 18
All of the rumors of a Blazers promise to Telfair appear to be true. Besides, Mo Cheeks loves him. If they believe he's going to be off the board before 22, they may use the No. 13 pick to grab him. If that happens, Western Carolina's Kevin Martin could be the guy here.
Insider scouting report on Sebastian Telfair
24. BOSTON CELTICS
Dorell Wright
SOUTH KENT PREP (CT) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 18
Ainge claims they're looking for a tall wing player, and Wright looks like a good fit. Everyone who sees him play believes Wright has the potential to be a star in the league. It's just going to take a little while for his body to develop.
Insider scouting report on Dorell Wright
25. BOSTON CELTICS
Viktor Khryapa
RUSSIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 22
The Celtics wanted Monya, but end up with his teammate, Khryapa. At 6-9, he has the ability to play small forward. He's a good shooter, a better-than-average athlete and uses his long arms to harass opponents on the defensive end. He's another guy who really has helped himself in workouts. Ainge, not wanting three rookies on the roster, likely would leave him in Europe another year or two.
Insider scouting report on Viktor Khryapa
26. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Donta Smith
SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS CC | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 20
The Kings are as high on him as anyone. Smith is a big-time athlete with a great NBA body. He was a potent JC scorer and a decent defender. He's a project, but with the team likely losing Gerald Wallace in the expansion draft, he's a good replacement.
Insider scouting report on Donta Smith
27. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Sasha Vujacic
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 19
Vujacic impressed scouts with his phenomenal shooting touch and extra 15 pounds of muscle in workouts in Chicago. He's not a pure point guard and not the quickest guy in the world, but the way the Lakers play (as long as they keep Shaquille O'Neal, that is) he'll be a great fit, planting himself on the NBA 3-point line and waiting for Shaq to kick it out.
Insider scouting report on Sasha Vujacic
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
David Harrison
COLORADO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 21
Harrison has a lot of talent, but a questionable head. In the right, structured system, Harrison could develop into a nice player. The Spurs could use more depth in the middle (Kevin Willis just celebrated his 80th birthday) and Harrison would be a nice project. Under Gregg Popovich's tight fist he just might blossom.
29. INDIANA PACERS
Beno Udrih
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 185 | AGE: 22
History says at least one player from the Chicago pre-draft camp makes it into the first round. This year, that guy may be Udrih. He was the best player in the camp last week. At 22, he has more experience than most of the Euros, and he has great size for a point. The Pacers have been following his career closely for several years. With his shooting and experience, he'd be a nice fit in the Pacers' backcourt.
ESPN Insider
Finally, we know for sure who is and isn't in the draft. Thursday's deadline for underclassmen to withdraw saw several international players who had been projected in the first round -- Martynas Andriuskevicius, Kosta Perovic, Peja Samardziski, Tiago Splitter and Roko Leni Ukic -- bail out, leaving plenty of room in the lottery and the late first round for players to move up.
How weak did the draft get with all of the pull-outs? In my mind, the true first-rounders stop after No. 21. Everyone below, in a better draft, would be good second-round picks.
Knowing who's in the draft is a relief. Now, if we just knew who's drafting whom. There's a flurry of trade talk going on right now that could turn the draft completely on its head and make a mockery of this mock.
The first eight teams in the drafting order -- the Magic, Clippers, Bulls, Bobcats, Wizards, Hawks, Suns and Raptors -- are all in serious trade talks. A few -- the Clippers, Bobcats and Suns -- appear likely to make deals. The others are still trying to sort out the pieces.
Until they do, take everything you read here with a grain of salt. We'll update this mock one more time on Thursday morning.
1. ORLANDO MAGIC
Emeka Okafor
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 257 | AGE: 21
The gap between Okafor and Dwight Howard for the No. 1 pick narrows daily. If T-Mac is going to be traded (and that looks inevitable now), everything changes. If the Magic get veterans in return, a guy like Okafor makes the most sense. If the trade is for lottery picks and young players, Howard will be be the guy. The Magic like both, but one source claims that over the past few days, they've started to lean toward Howard. We still feel like Okafor is the best choice for the Magic, no matter what they do with T-Mac, but don't be surprised to see Howard on top of this list.
Insider scouting report on Emeka Okafor
2. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Dwight Howard
SW ATLANTA CHRISTIAN H.S. | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10¼ | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18
It now looks like a foregone conclusion that the Clippers are going to trade this pick. Whoever moves up will want Howard, so we're taking him out of the No. 4 doghouse. The front runner, according to several league sources, is the Bobcats. They're willing to offer the No. 4 and a future first (that they'll pick up in the expansion draft), and they also are willing to swallow a bad contract or two to make the Clippers' cap situation more desirable. The Hawks have been trying to get this pick as well, (offering the No. 6 and No. 17), but two things are working in the Bobcats' favor. One, they're willing to make a deal now, and they'll take either Okafor or Howard, whoever falls to them. The Hawks only want Howard. Two, the Clippers have some concern that the guy they want may not be around at No. 6. Grabbing the Bobcats' fourth pick is a safer proposition.
Insider scouting report on Dwight Howard
3. CHICAGO BULLS
Andre Iguodala
ARIZONA | SOPHOMORE | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 217 | AGE: 19
The decision is down to Iguodala, Luol Deng, Ben Gordon and Josh Childress. However, of those four, Iguodala has the most upside and is the best fit. He's the most athletic, the best defender, a superior passer and may be the most ready to step in and contribute right away. Iguodala's the guy who gets them to the playoffs the quickest -- that is, unless, the Bulls trade this pick.
Insider scouting report on Andre Iguodala
4. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Shaun Livingston
PEORIA H.S. (ILL.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7½ | WEIGHT: 186 | AGE: 18
This is a tough call. Assuming the Clippers and Bobcats swap picks, L.A. likely will choose between Iguodala, Livingston, Gordon and Devin Harris here. According to our mock, Iguodala will be off the board. Livingston would be the best choice if the Bobcats were making the pick, but the Clippers, who want to make the playoffs badly next year, may not want to wait. Gordon and Harris are both ready to play right now (with the Clippers leaning toward Harris), but neither player has the upside of Livingston. This pick could go any of those four ways, but long term (aren't the Clippers always thinking long term?) Livingston is the best pick. If the Bobcats keep the pick, it will be between Deng and Childress.
Insider scouting report on Shaun Livingston
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Luol Deng
DUKE | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 19
Landing Deng is the best-case scenario for the Wizards. Why have you been reading so much about Deng in Chicago? Because the Bulls know Ernie Grunfeld wants him and are trying to get Washington to send Jarvis Hayes and the No. 5 pick in exchange for the No. 3. The Wizards already have more small forwards than any team in the league, but Deng is way ahead of both Jared Jeffries and Hayes. They'll also give Childress and Andris Biedrins a long look here.
Insider scouting report on Luol Deng
6. ATLANTA HAWKS
Josh Smith
OAK HILL ACADEMY | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8¼ | WEIGHT: 221 | AGE: 18
The Hawks are working on a trade for this pick with the Clippers, but right now it appears that the Bobcats have a better shot of landing it. If Atlanta keeps the pick, its preference is Livingston. However, in this mock he's gone, meaning they'll likely go with Josh Smith. He's gotten some bad press over the past few weeks, but his big-time athleticism and game will sell some tickets in Atlanta.
Insider scouting report on Josh Smith
7. PHOENIX SUNS
Devin Harris
WISCONSIN | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 20
The Suns have given long looks to four point guards -- Harris, Gordon, Livingston and Jameer Nelson. Leandrinho Barbosa is more of a combo guard, and it looks like Milos Vujanic might not be coming next season, after all. Gordon's workout was Phoenix's most impressive, but they just got done shipping out a little two guard forced to play the point (see ya Starbury). Harris isn't as ready to step right in and help Phoenix as Gordon may be, but he's a pure point guard, something the team has yearned for since Jason Kidd left town. Is he the next Kevin Johnson?
Insider scouting report on Devin Harris
8. TORONTO RAPTORS
Ben Gordon
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-2¼ | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 21
The Raptors need a big in the worst way and both Podkolzine and Biedrins are real options here. But I'm not sure new GM Rob Babcock has the stomach to take on a project right now. Gordon's workouts have been lights out. A combo of Gordon and Vince Carter in the backcourt makes a lot of sense.
Insider scouting report on Ben Gordon
9. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Josh Childress
STANFORD | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7¼ | WEIGHT: 196 | AGE: 20
The Bulls, Bobcats and Wizards all love Childress, so he could end up going much higher. However, if he does slip, he won't get past Philly. Childress' length, athleticism and great defensive effort are a great fit in Philly.
Insider scouting report on Josh Childress
10. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Andris Biedrins
LATVIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18
Conventional wisdom last week said the Cavs were after Luke Jackson, a college-seasoned swingman who could step right in and help LeBron. The Cavs are still looking for that guy, but sources claim that the Cavs prefer to grab a big man in the draft and find a swingman in free agency or via a trade. Adding Biedrins, a tough, 7-footer who blocks shots and rebounds, makes some sense. Pavel Podkolzine is another guy who could land here, especially if Cleveland ends up cutting a deal with a team like the Mavs, who are hot on Pavel's trail.
Insider scouting report on Andris Biedrins
11. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Pavel Podkolzine
RUSSIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-5 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 19
The Warriors like Biedrins, but he's just off the board. The reward really starts outweighing the risk if Podkolzine slips this low. There isn't a player on the board worth passing him up for now. The Warriors look like they're losing both Erick Dampier and Adonal Foyle, meaning they'll have a gaping hole to fill in the middle. No one fills it better than Pavel.
Insider scouting report on Pavel Podkolzine
12. SEATTLE SUPERSONICS
Kirk Snyder
NEVADA | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 228 | AGE: 21
Snyder's stock has soared since he hit the workout circuit. He's a better athlete and shooter than most gave him credit for. With the Sonics exploring numerous Ray Allen trade possibilites, Snyder becomes insurance. If they trade Ray, Snyder steps in at the two. If they keep Allen, Snyder has the ball-handling ability and court vision to play a Brent Barry-type role on the Sonics next season at the point. Don't be surprised if the Sonics trade down either. Several teams like Utah and Boston are trying to package picks in an effort to move up. The Sonics also have a thing for Brazilian Anderson Varejao and wouldn't mind picking up another late-first-rounder to nab him.
Insider scouting report on Kirk Snyder
13. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Luke Jackson
OREGON | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 212 | AGE: 22
The Blazers are trying to package this pick, along with the one they have apparently acquired from New Jersey (No. 22) in an effort to move up in the draft. Some sources have targeted Toronto (at No. 8) as their destination. If they stay here, there will be enormous pressure to take Jackson. He's worked out great, is a good kid with local ties and fits a need as the sharp-shooting swingman they've been missing for a long time. Sebastian Telfair will also get consideration here. Coach Mo Cheeks wants him badly and there's a chance he may not be on the board when the Blazer pick again at 22 or 23.
Insider scouting report on Luke Jackson
14. UTAH JAZZ
Sergei Monya
RUSSIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 20
The Jazz claim they have not made a promise to Monya. Fine. But they still have interest, and the Russian-Marc Fleisher (also Andrei Kirilenko's agent) connection is too good to pass up. Besides, Monya is the most NBA-ready Euro in the draft. They'll love him in Utah.
Insider scouting report on Sergei Monya
15. BOSTON CELTICS
Robert Swift
BAKERSFIELD H.S. (CALIF.) | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 18
The Celtics want Monya, but it's unlikely he'll get past Utah at No. 14. That means the decision comes down to Araujo, Robert Swift or Peter John Ramos. The Celtics like all three, but after spending an hour talking with Danny Ainge last week, my gut said Araujo. This week, after talking to everyone else in the league, my head says Swift. Head wins over heart every time in these mock drafts.
Insider scouting report on Robert Swift
16. UTAH JAZZ
Rafael Araujo
BYU | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 280 | AGE: 23
The Jazz have a no-lose situation here if either Arajuo or Swift is still on the board. The Jazz love both players. There's a chance neither could be. The Warriors have been looking at Swift as high as No. 11. The Sonics have interest in Araujo at No. 12. But in this scenario, the local product is a great fit -- a tough big guy who can step in and play right away. If both guys are off the board, Kris Humphries could be the pick here.
Insider scouting report on Rafael Araujo
17. ATLANTA HAWKS
Al Jefferson
PRENTISS H.S. (MISS.) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9¾ | WEIGHT: 263 | AGE: 18
He measured well in Chicago and has been moving up with some strong workouts over the past few weeks. Jefferson isn't the best athlete in the draft at his size, but he's quick off the floor and is as consistent as a high school kid can get. He could do some damage in the paint for the Hawks next season.
Insider scouting report on Al Jefferson
18. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
Kris Humphries
MINNESOTA | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9½ | WEIGHT: 238 | AGE: 20
The way Humphries has worked out the past few days, he could end up going even higher on draft night. The Jazz at No. 14, the Celtics at No. 15 and the Hawks at No. 17 are all showing interest. J.R. Smith is another candidate for the position, but the Hornets are among the most conservative franchises in the NBA. Taking a college freshman is still a reach for them, but Humphries' ability to play the four and the three could really help out the Hornets in the long term. He's a better prospect than David West, whom they nabbed at the same position last year.
Insider scouting report on Kris Humphries
19. MIAMI HEAT
Jameer Nelson
SAINT JOSEPH'S | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0½ | WEIGHT: 199 | AGE: 23
They want Swift, but he's probably off the board here. They also took a long look at Peter John Ramos, but a poor workout in Miami in front of Pat Riley probably killed his chances of getting drafted. While many of you keep writing to point out the Nelson is a poor fit in Miami (too undersized to play in the backcourt with Dwyane Wade) I just write what I hear. Riley likes guys with intangibles who can play now. Nelson has a lot of that. David Harrison is another possibility here.
Insider scouting report on Jameer Nelson
20. DENVER NUGGETS
J.R. Smith
ST. BENEDICT PREP (N.J.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 227 | AGE: 18
Smith's star potential and his ability to contribute right away could put him much higher on draft night (the Blazers and Jazz both initially showed interest). However, slipping to here isn't out of the question. It would be a god send for both Smith and the Nuggets. The Nuggets covet three things in their shooting guard -- size, shooting and athletcism. Smith has all three. It's a slam dunk if he's still on the board. If he isn't, and Snyder, Monya, Swift or Podkolzine don't fall, don't count out a late sleeper -- Western Carolina's Kevin Martin.
Insider scouting report on J.R. Smith
21. UTAH JAZZ
Anderson Varejao
BRAZIL | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
The Jazz have already drafted one Brazilian (Araujo at No. 16). Why not two? The team would've liked to have landed Humphries here, but if he's gone, Varejao may be the guy. He's been working out great and is willing to stay at one of Europe's top clubs for another season if the Jazz want him to.
Insider scouting report on Anderson Varejao
22. NEW JERSEY NETS
Peter John Ramos
PUERTO RICO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-3¼ | WEIGHT: 266 | AGE: 19
The rumor running rampant around the league is that this pick will actually belong to the Blazers on draft night. Whether the Nets sent it as part of a larger deal for Shareef Abdur-Rahim, or whether they just sent the pick for cash, chances are that the Blazers may be making this pick. Then again, the Blazers are trying to move up on draft night as well (their target appears to be the Raptors at No. 8) and may end up sending this pick again. If the Blazers keep it, Ramos could be their guy. Eventually, they need to start grooming a replacement for Theo Ratliff and Dale Davis, and Ramos, who has impressed numerous GMs lately, seems like a good candidate.
Insider scouting report on Peter John Ramos
23. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Sebastian Telfair
LINCOLN H.S. (BROOKLYN, N.Y.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 5-11 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 18
All of the rumors of a Blazers promise to Telfair appear to be true. Besides, Mo Cheeks loves him. If they believe he's going to be off the board before 22, they may use the No. 13 pick to grab him. If that happens, Western Carolina's Kevin Martin could be the guy here.
Insider scouting report on Sebastian Telfair
24. BOSTON CELTICS
Dorell Wright
SOUTH KENT PREP (CT) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 18
Ainge claims they're looking for a tall wing player, and Wright looks like a good fit. Everyone who sees him play believes Wright has the potential to be a star in the league. It's just going to take a little while for his body to develop.
Insider scouting report on Dorell Wright
25. BOSTON CELTICS
Viktor Khryapa
RUSSIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 22
The Celtics wanted Monya, but end up with his teammate, Khryapa. At 6-9, he has the ability to play small forward. He's a good shooter, a better-than-average athlete and uses his long arms to harass opponents on the defensive end. He's another guy who really has helped himself in workouts. Ainge, not wanting three rookies on the roster, likely would leave him in Europe another year or two.
Insider scouting report on Viktor Khryapa
26. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Donta Smith
SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS CC | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 20
The Kings are as high on him as anyone. Smith is a big-time athlete with a great NBA body. He was a potent JC scorer and a decent defender. He's a project, but with the team likely losing Gerald Wallace in the expansion draft, he's a good replacement.
Insider scouting report on Donta Smith
27. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Sasha Vujacic
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 19
Vujacic impressed scouts with his phenomenal shooting touch and extra 15 pounds of muscle in workouts in Chicago. He's not a pure point guard and not the quickest guy in the world, but the way the Lakers play (as long as they keep Shaquille O'Neal, that is) he'll be a great fit, planting himself on the NBA 3-point line and waiting for Shaq to kick it out.
Insider scouting report on Sasha Vujacic
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
David Harrison
COLORADO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 21
Harrison has a lot of talent, but a questionable head. In the right, structured system, Harrison could develop into a nice player. The Spurs could use more depth in the middle (Kevin Willis just celebrated his 80th birthday) and Harrison would be a nice project. Under Gregg Popovich's tight fist he just might blossom.
29. INDIANA PACERS
Beno Udrih
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 185 | AGE: 22
History says at least one player from the Chicago pre-draft camp makes it into the first round. This year, that guy may be Udrih. He was the best player in the camp last week. At 22, he has more experience than most of the Euros, and he has great size for a point. The Pacers have been following his career closely for several years. With his shooting and experience, he'd be a nice fit in the Pacers' backcourt.
Last edited:
