Updated: June 28, 2005, 12:05 PM ET
Round One tough to predict
By Chad Ford
At 2:30 a.m., many NBA executives are still in their offices, sipping coffee and reviewing their mock drafts.
Millions of dollars worth of scouting, dozens of personal workouts and hours of breaking down film have come down to this.
When David Stern opens the draft for business today at 7:30 p.m. ET, teams are comfortable they know what's happening in the first five minutes. After that? Forget about it.
"Anyone who claims they know what's going to happen tomorrow is either a liar or a psychic," one NBA executive drafting in the mid-first round said Monday. "There are too many variables. Too much parity. Too many rumors floating around. We don't have a clue who's going to be on the board when we pick. And we get paid to do this."
That is the refrain around the league. The draft is deep. The gap between picks 10 and 30 isn't very large. The trade talk is rampant. Bad rumors are floating everywhere.
Throw some chicken bones on the floor and pass the Ouija board – here's our final mock draft with a look at who we think will be taken and a few alternatives should best laid plans go awry.
1. MILWAUKEE BUCKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andrew Bogut[/font]
UTAH | SOPHOMORE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20This sounds like the only sure thing in the draft. The Bucks continue to maintain that they haven't made their decision but everyone believes that they'll select Bogut at No. 1. A mock draft is supposed to tell you who the Bucks are going to take … not who they should take. I still believe that Marvin Williams should be the No. 1 pick in the draft. Bogut's not a bad pick. He has the chance to be special and he's a low-risk player, but I'm still not convinced it's the right decision.
Alternate Pick: Marvin Williams
2. ATLANTA HAWKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Marvin Williams[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | FRESHMAN | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 18This is very tough. The word coming out of Atlanta the past two days is that they're seriously considering bypassing Marvin and drafting either Chris Paul or Deron Williams. They don't need a small forward and desperately need a point guard. Both Paul and Deron worked out well. Marvin was just OK. Everything in the draft hinges on what the Hawks do here. If they pass on Marvin, get ready for a wild night.
Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams
3. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
[font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Deron Williams[/font]
ILLINOIS | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 20The chances of the Blazers' trading this pick are very high. If Marvin Williams is taken at No. 2, expect the Blazers to send the draft rights to Deron Williams along with Ruben Patterson and Sergei Monya to the Jazz for the Nos. 6 and 27 picks, Gordan Giricek and possibly Kirk Snyder. The teams have been in serious trade talks for days and the deal likely will be consummated on draft night if Marvin Williams is off the board. If the Hawks pass on Marvin Williams, all bets are off. Either the Blazers will keep the pick or they'll trade it to the Bobcats for Nos. 5 and 13.
Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Chris Paul
4. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chris Paul[/font]
WAKE FOREST | SOPHOMORE | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-1 | WEIGHT: 178 | AGE: 20The Hornets also have been involved in trade talks but most have surrounded adding picks, not getting rid of this one. The Hornets like both Paul and Deron Williams and will take whoever is left. If they're both off the board, that means Marvin Williams falls to them – the best of all circumstances. If they trade down, Granger would be the guy. Their biggest need is at small forward and Granger, who's from Louisiana, would be a great fit.
Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Deron Williams, Danny Granger
5. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Danny Granger[/font]
NEW MEXICO | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 225 | AGE: 22The Bobcats are trying to move up in the draft to get their hands on Marvin Williams or Paul. If Paul, Marvin and Deron Williams are off the board, the team will choose between potential (Green) and immediate impact (Granger). Given Bernie Bickerstaff's track record last year, don't be surprised if it's Granger.
Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Gerald Green, Martell Webster
6. UTAH JAZZ [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Gerald Green[/font]
GULF SHORES ACADEMY | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 19This pick assumes that Utah will swap picks with the Blazers. The Blazers are high on Green, Martell Webster and high school center Andrew Bynum. However, we hear they'll grab Green if they land at No. 6. If the Jazz keep this pick, look for them to snag Channing Frye if both Chris Paul and Deron Williams are off the board.
Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Andrew Bynum, Channing Frye
7. TORONTO RAPTORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Martell Webster[/font]
SEATTLE PREP | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18The Raptors have been in serious talks with the Hornets about trading No. 7, and possibly No. 16, to New Orleans for Jamaal Magloire. If that trade happens (and it might if both Green and Granger are off the board), the Hornets likely would select Frye. If the Raptors keep the pick, they have a tough choice between Frye and Webster. Webster has the upside, Frye fits a need. It's a tough call between the two.
Alternate Picks: Gerald Green, Danny Granger, Channing Frye
8. NEW YORK KNICKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Channing Frye[/font]
ARIZONA | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 245 | AGE: 22Isiah Thomas can breathe a sigh of relief. Insider first reported three weeks ago that the Knicks made a promise to Frye and shut down his workouts. Since then, both the Jazz and Raptors have flirted with taking him. Frye and his agent, Rob Pelinka, have told both teams that he doesn't want to play in Utah and Toronto. That could be enough to scare them off. Given the Knicks' lack of size, Frye is the obvious choice. If he's off the board, high school center Andrew Bynum and Spanish forward Fran Vazquez are possibilities.
Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Hakim Warrick
9. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Hakim Warrick[/font]
SYRACUSE | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 22If both Granger and Frye are off the board, it appears the Warriors have narrowed their list to Warrick, Ike Diogu and Sean May. Sources claim they've been leaning toward Warrick, a long, lean athletic forward who should be able to run the floor with Baron Davis and Jason Richardson.
Alternate Picks: Ike Diogu, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
10. LOS ANGELES LAKERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Charlie Villanueva[/font]
CONNECTICUT | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 20This is awfully high for Villanueva, but under the scenarios above, most of the players the Lakers like are off the board. The Lakers like Villanueva because he's a great fit in the triangle, but they're going to have to get rid of some logjams if he's going to get any minutes next season. If Villanueva doesn't go here, the Bobcats and Pacers are also high on him.
Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
11. ORLANDO MAGIC [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Joey Graham[/font]
OKLAHOMA STATE | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 216 | AGE: 22The Magic could go in many different directions here. They've also been looking hard at Webster, Warrick and May. Orlando would like to get tougher and more athletic and Graham would be a great choice. He's a hard worker who can play both the three and the four. He reminds some of a bigger Corey Maggette.
Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Hakim Warrick, Sean May
12. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Antoine Wright[/font]
TEXAS A&M | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 21There's talk that the Clippers are the team that promised Russian forward Yaroslav Korolev they'd pick him. However, as we reported in Treviso, Italy, it's a soft promise contingent on certain players not being on the board. Is Wright one of them? It will be tough for the Clips to pass on Wright's versatility and perimeter shooting. The Clippers have depth just about everywhere, but Wright will provide insurance should Donald Sterling decide not to pony up for free agents Bobby Simmons and Marko Jaric. The Clips also are very high on Rashad McCants, though concerns about his attitude and stomach problems may cause them to pass.
Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Rashad McCants
13. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Raymond Felton[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20This is a real steal for the Bobcats if they can land Felton here, assuming they don't nab a point guard at No. 5. Felton's the fastest point guard in the draft baseline to baseline, has improved his outside shooting and is an excellent floor leader. If Felton is gone, look for the Bobcats to trade this pick to either the Pacers or Nuggets. The Bobcats could also package this pick along with No. 5 to move up to get Marvin Williams. If that happens, the Blazers would likely take Bynum here.
Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Andray Blatche
14. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Francisco Garcia[/font]
LOUISVILLE | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 190 | AGE: 23I think the Wolves are giving new "consultant" Rex Chapman more power than they're letting on. If that's true, look for the Wolves to grab Garcia, a player Chapman (and the rest of the Suns staff) have been high on all year. Garcia's a terrific shooter and could be a nice replacement for Latrell Sprewell.
Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Fran Vazquez, Roko Ukic
15. NEW JERSEY NETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Rashad McCants[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20McCants may be the toughest guy in the draft to project. On talent, he's easily a top-10 pick, maybe top five, but just about every team in the league has uncovered a number of red flags on the background check. Between his attitude problems and his stomach issues, there's a lot to be concerned with. But if the Nets don't take him, the Pacers likely will at No. 17. The team has also focused seriously on adding a big and Warrick (if he slipped), May and Diogu are all real possibilities here. Look for the Nets to be active tonight, either moving up (packaging this pick with a future first) or down for multiple picks.
Alternate Picks: Hakim Warrick, Sean May, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum
16. TORONTO RAPTORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Sean May[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 21The Raptors need a tough scorer and rebounder in the paint and May should be a perfect fit. Though he's a little undersized to play his natural position (center) in the pros, he should be fine paired next to Chris Bosh. Bosh's ability to dominate in the high post along with May's ability to finish around the rim should give the Raptors an effective high-low punch in the paint. The Raptors have also been seriously looking at Croatian point guard Roko Ukic.
Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum, Jarrett Jack
17. INDIANA PACERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Yaroslav Korolev[/font]
RUSSIA | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 17The Pacers were high on Villanueva, McCants, Garcia and May. If all of them are gone, don't be surprised if the Pacers go for the best future prospect. Korolev has all the skills to be a Toni Kukoc-type player in the future. They're just going to have to wait on him.
Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
18. BOSTON CELTICS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Roko Ukic[/font]
CROATIA | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 21Look for Danny Ainge to go international if Graham is off the board. Ukic's had a great year in Croatia. He should be able to come in and immediately help the Celtics. He's long, plays defense and is very tough and experienced. If he could shoot, he'd be a much higher pick.
Alternate Picks: Joey Graham, Yaroslav Korolev, Ike Diogu, Andray Blatche, Monta Ellis
19. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fran Vazquez[/font]
SPAIN | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22Vazquez's stock has dropped like a rock since rumors surfaced two weeks ago that he wants to stay in Spain next year. Combine that with two so-so group workouts for NBA executives and he's in trouble. Still, he has way too much talent to slip too far in the draft and would be a nice complement on the front line to Pau Gasol. Jerry West is also a huge fan of Julius Hodge, so he could be the pick here if Vazquez goes earlier. The Grizzlies have also been shopping this pick. The Cavs, Pistons and the Blazers (who are looking for a second No. 1) are in the mix.
Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Andrew Bynum, Roko Ukic, Jason Maxiell
20. DENVER NUGGETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Ike Diogu[/font]
ARIZONA STATE | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 21The Nuggets really wanted to get their hands on either McCants, Wright or Garcia and have tried to package their two first-round picks in an effort to move up. If it doesn't happen, it's tough to see Diogu slipping past here. The Nuggets could use another big body and the addition of Diogu could free them up to use Nene as trade bait to get a big-time two-guard in a trade.
Alternate Picks: Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Julius Hodge, Luther Head
21. PHOENIX SUNS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Johan Petro[/font]
FRANCE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 19Petro has the size and talent of a lottery pick, but he's been very slow to develop, which has caused some NBA teams to worry. Petro is probably another year or two away from helping a team, even if he does develop. However, if he ever gets it, he could be the perfect center in the Suns' system down the road. Don't be surprised if Nate Robinson also gets a look here. He's a perfect fit in their super-speed offense.
Alternate Picks: Nate Robinson, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Andray Blatche, Ersan Ilyasova
22. DENVER NUGGETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andrew Bynum[/font]
ST. JOSEPH, N.J. | H.S. | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 17The Nuggets have decided to either trade this pick or use it on a project. If Bynum falls this far (talk about knee problems may be sinking his stock at the moment), something will happen. Either a team will cut a deal to grab him or the Nuggets will take him themselves and develop him as a long-term replacement for Marcus Camby.
Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, C.J. Miles, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Ersan Ilyasova
23. SACRAMENTO KINGS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chris Taft[/font]
PITTSBURGH | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20Taft has the size and strength of a lottery pick and the work ethic of an NBDL player. Still, he's a steal once teams begin drafting in the 20s. He has the physical tools to replace Chris Webber on the Kings' front line. But will Rick Adelman ever be able to motivate him?
Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Ersan Ilyasova, Monta Ellis, David Lee
24. HOUSTON ROCKETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wayne Simien[/font]
KANSAS | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 22Despite reports to the contrary, the Rockets likely will keep this pick. Houston could use a tough rebounder with experience and Simien fits the bill. Concerns about injuries and size are the only things keeping him out of the lottery. He's one of those few guys who aren't afraid to go inside and bang, but also has a nice perimeter game. He's a safe pick. Point guards Ukic and Luther Head could also be steals here.
Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Julius Hodge
25. SEATTLE SONICS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Jarrett Jack[/font]
GEORGIA TECH | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 21Jack could be off the board in the mid-first round, but it's conceivable that he slips all the way to here. He's a very good point guard prospect who just needs to cut down on his turnovers. With Antonio Daniels set to bolt in free agency, the Sonics have a strong need for a back-up point guard with size and toughness.
Alternate Picks: Ersan Ilyasova, Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Angelo Gigli
26. DETROIT PISTONS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Julius Hodge[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA ST | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 205 | AGE: 21Hodge may not be the greatest shooter in the draft, but he has all the intangibles Joe Dumars loves in his players. He's tough, versatile and he seems to want it more than most guys on the floor. The team is also looking strongly at Ryan Gomes, a Corliss Williamson-like forward and Jason Maxiell, the mini-Ben Wallace.
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Alternate Picks: Ryan Gomes, Nate Robinson, Jason Maxiell
27. UTAH JAZZ [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Martynas Andriuskevicius[/font]
LITHUANIA | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 7-3 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 19This pick assumes that the Jazz are swapping with the Blazers. Portland once considered taking Andriuskevicius in the lottery and would be ecstatic to get a player of his talent this low in the draft. If Utah keeps the pick, it's tough to argue that they'd do it differently, though they could go for Roko Ukic if they didn't get a point guard earlier.
Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ersan Ilyasova, Jason Maxiell
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Ersan Ilyasova[/font]
TURKEY | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 18The Spurs have a history of mining international diamonds in the rough late in the first round. Ilyasova would be no exception. He's big, athletic, and very skilled. The only reason he slips this far is because an ankle injury ******** his development this year.
Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Mickael Gelebale, David Lee, Axel Hervelle
29. MIAMI HEAT [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Luther Head[/font]
ILLINOIS | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 180 | AGE: 22Head may be the biggest steal in the draft if he lasts this long. Teams will start seriously considering him in the mid first round. He'd be awesome in the Miami backcourt next to Dwyane Wade. There's also talk that the Heat are high on local product Matt Walsh along with rumors that the Heat may have promised Serbian center Mile Ilic.
Alternate Picks: Matt Walsh, Mile Ilic, Chris Taft, Wayne Simien
30. NEW YORK KNICKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andray Blatche[/font]
SOUTH KENT PREP | H.S. | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18Blatche has been under the radar all year, in part because he's insisted on not playing like a 7-footer in order to show NBA scouts that he's versatile. Blatche has been referred to as a poor man's Kevin Garnett. He runs the floor well, can handle the ball, has 3-point range on his jumper and is an excellent rebounder. He may be a year or two away, but eventually he and Channing Frye could be a great pair on the Knicks' front line.
Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, Mile Ilic
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Round One tough to predict
By Chad Ford
At 2:30 a.m., many NBA executives are still in their offices, sipping coffee and reviewing their mock drafts.
Millions of dollars worth of scouting, dozens of personal workouts and hours of breaking down film have come down to this.
When David Stern opens the draft for business today at 7:30 p.m. ET, teams are comfortable they know what's happening in the first five minutes. After that? Forget about it.
"Anyone who claims they know what's going to happen tomorrow is either a liar or a psychic," one NBA executive drafting in the mid-first round said Monday. "There are too many variables. Too much parity. Too many rumors floating around. We don't have a clue who's going to be on the board when we pick. And we get paid to do this."
That is the refrain around the league. The draft is deep. The gap between picks 10 and 30 isn't very large. The trade talk is rampant. Bad rumors are floating everywhere.
Throw some chicken bones on the floor and pass the Ouija board – here's our final mock draft with a look at who we think will be taken and a few alternatives should best laid plans go awry.
1. MILWAUKEE BUCKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andrew Bogut[/font]
UTAH | SOPHOMORE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20This sounds like the only sure thing in the draft. The Bucks continue to maintain that they haven't made their decision but everyone believes that they'll select Bogut at No. 1. A mock draft is supposed to tell you who the Bucks are going to take … not who they should take. I still believe that Marvin Williams should be the No. 1 pick in the draft. Bogut's not a bad pick. He has the chance to be special and he's a low-risk player, but I'm still not convinced it's the right decision.
Alternate Pick: Marvin Williams
2. ATLANTA HAWKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Marvin Williams[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | FRESHMAN | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 18This is very tough. The word coming out of Atlanta the past two days is that they're seriously considering bypassing Marvin and drafting either Chris Paul or Deron Williams. They don't need a small forward and desperately need a point guard. Both Paul and Deron worked out well. Marvin was just OK. Everything in the draft hinges on what the Hawks do here. If they pass on Marvin, get ready for a wild night.
Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams
3. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
[font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Deron Williams[/font]
ILLINOIS | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 20The chances of the Blazers' trading this pick are very high. If Marvin Williams is taken at No. 2, expect the Blazers to send the draft rights to Deron Williams along with Ruben Patterson and Sergei Monya to the Jazz for the Nos. 6 and 27 picks, Gordan Giricek and possibly Kirk Snyder. The teams have been in serious trade talks for days and the deal likely will be consummated on draft night if Marvin Williams is off the board. If the Hawks pass on Marvin Williams, all bets are off. Either the Blazers will keep the pick or they'll trade it to the Bobcats for Nos. 5 and 13.
Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Chris Paul
4. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chris Paul[/font]
WAKE FOREST | SOPHOMORE | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-1 | WEIGHT: 178 | AGE: 20The Hornets also have been involved in trade talks but most have surrounded adding picks, not getting rid of this one. The Hornets like both Paul and Deron Williams and will take whoever is left. If they're both off the board, that means Marvin Williams falls to them – the best of all circumstances. If they trade down, Granger would be the guy. Their biggest need is at small forward and Granger, who's from Louisiana, would be a great fit.
Alternate Picks: Marvin Williams, Deron Williams, Danny Granger
5. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Danny Granger[/font]
NEW MEXICO | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 225 | AGE: 22The Bobcats are trying to move up in the draft to get their hands on Marvin Williams or Paul. If Paul, Marvin and Deron Williams are off the board, the team will choose between potential (Green) and immediate impact (Granger). Given Bernie Bickerstaff's track record last year, don't be surprised if it's Granger.
Alternate Picks: Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Gerald Green, Martell Webster
6. UTAH JAZZ [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Gerald Green[/font]
GULF SHORES ACADEMY | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 19This pick assumes that Utah will swap picks with the Blazers. The Blazers are high on Green, Martell Webster and high school center Andrew Bynum. However, we hear they'll grab Green if they land at No. 6. If the Jazz keep this pick, look for them to snag Channing Frye if both Chris Paul and Deron Williams are off the board.
Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Andrew Bynum, Channing Frye
7. TORONTO RAPTORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Martell Webster[/font]
SEATTLE PREP | H.S. | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18The Raptors have been in serious talks with the Hornets about trading No. 7, and possibly No. 16, to New Orleans for Jamaal Magloire. If that trade happens (and it might if both Green and Granger are off the board), the Hornets likely would select Frye. If the Raptors keep the pick, they have a tough choice between Frye and Webster. Webster has the upside, Frye fits a need. It's a tough call between the two.
Alternate Picks: Gerald Green, Danny Granger, Channing Frye
8. NEW YORK KNICKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Channing Frye[/font]
ARIZONA | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 245 | AGE: 22Isiah Thomas can breathe a sigh of relief. Insider first reported three weeks ago that the Knicks made a promise to Frye and shut down his workouts. Since then, both the Jazz and Raptors have flirted with taking him. Frye and his agent, Rob Pelinka, have told both teams that he doesn't want to play in Utah and Toronto. That could be enough to scare them off. Given the Knicks' lack of size, Frye is the obvious choice. If he's off the board, high school center Andrew Bynum and Spanish forward Fran Vazquez are possibilities.
Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Hakim Warrick
9. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Hakim Warrick[/font]
SYRACUSE | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 22If both Granger and Frye are off the board, it appears the Warriors have narrowed their list to Warrick, Ike Diogu and Sean May. Sources claim they've been leaning toward Warrick, a long, lean athletic forward who should be able to run the floor with Baron Davis and Jason Richardson.
Alternate Picks: Ike Diogu, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
10. LOS ANGELES LAKERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Charlie Villanueva[/font]
CONNECTICUT | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 20This is awfully high for Villanueva, but under the scenarios above, most of the players the Lakers like are off the board. The Lakers like Villanueva because he's a great fit in the triangle, but they're going to have to get rid of some logjams if he's going to get any minutes next season. If Villanueva doesn't go here, the Bobcats and Pacers are also high on him.
Alternate Picks: Andrew Bynum, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
11. ORLANDO MAGIC [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Joey Graham[/font]
OKLAHOMA STATE | SENIOR | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 216 | AGE: 22The Magic could go in many different directions here. They've also been looking hard at Webster, Warrick and May. Orlando would like to get tougher and more athletic and Graham would be a great choice. He's a hard worker who can play both the three and the four. He reminds some of a bigger Corey Maggette.
Alternate Picks: Martell Webster, Hakim Warrick, Sean May
12. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Antoine Wright[/font]
TEXAS A&M | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 21There's talk that the Clippers are the team that promised Russian forward Yaroslav Korolev they'd pick him. However, as we reported in Treviso, Italy, it's a soft promise contingent on certain players not being on the board. Is Wright one of them? It will be tough for the Clips to pass on Wright's versatility and perimeter shooting. The Clippers have depth just about everywhere, but Wright will provide insurance should Donald Sterling decide not to pony up for free agents Bobby Simmons and Marko Jaric. The Clips also are very high on Rashad McCants, though concerns about his attitude and stomach problems may cause them to pass.
Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Rashad McCants
13. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Raymond Felton[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20This is a real steal for the Bobcats if they can land Felton here, assuming they don't nab a point guard at No. 5. Felton's the fastest point guard in the draft baseline to baseline, has improved his outside shooting and is an excellent floor leader. If Felton is gone, look for the Bobcats to trade this pick to either the Pacers or Nuggets. The Bobcats could also package this pick along with No. 5 to move up to get Marvin Williams. If that happens, the Blazers would likely take Bynum here.
Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Sean May, Fran Vazquez, Andray Blatche
14. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Francisco Garcia[/font]
LOUISVILLE | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 190 | AGE: 23I think the Wolves are giving new "consultant" Rex Chapman more power than they're letting on. If that's true, look for the Wolves to grab Garcia, a player Chapman (and the rest of the Suns staff) have been high on all year. Garcia's a terrific shooter and could be a nice replacement for Latrell Sprewell.
Alternate Picks: Yaroslav Korolev, Fran Vazquez, Roko Ukic
15. NEW JERSEY NETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Rashad McCants[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | SHOOTING GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 20McCants may be the toughest guy in the draft to project. On talent, he's easily a top-10 pick, maybe top five, but just about every team in the league has uncovered a number of red flags on the background check. Between his attitude problems and his stomach issues, there's a lot to be concerned with. But if the Nets don't take him, the Pacers likely will at No. 17. The team has also focused seriously on adding a big and Warrick (if he slipped), May and Diogu are all real possibilities here. Look for the Nets to be active tonight, either moving up (packaging this pick with a future first) or down for multiple picks.
Alternate Picks: Hakim Warrick, Sean May, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum
16. TORONTO RAPTORS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Sean May[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 21The Raptors need a tough scorer and rebounder in the paint and May should be a perfect fit. Though he's a little undersized to play his natural position (center) in the pros, he should be fine paired next to Chris Bosh. Bosh's ability to dominate in the high post along with May's ability to finish around the rim should give the Raptors an effective high-low punch in the paint. The Raptors have also been seriously looking at Croatian point guard Roko Ukic.
Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ike Diogu, Andrew Bynum, Jarrett Jack
17. INDIANA PACERS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Yaroslav Korolev[/font]
RUSSIA | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 17The Pacers were high on Villanueva, McCants, Garcia and May. If all of them are gone, don't be surprised if the Pacers go for the best future prospect. Korolev has all the skills to be a Toni Kukoc-type player in the future. They're just going to have to wait on him.
Alternate Picks: Charlie Villanueva, Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Sean May, Fran Vazquez
18. BOSTON CELTICS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Roko Ukic[/font]
CROATIA | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6 | WEIGHT: 218 | AGE: 21Look for Danny Ainge to go international if Graham is off the board. Ukic's had a great year in Croatia. He should be able to come in and immediately help the Celtics. He's long, plays defense and is very tough and experienced. If he could shoot, he'd be a much higher pick.
Alternate Picks: Joey Graham, Yaroslav Korolev, Ike Diogu, Andray Blatche, Monta Ellis
19. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fran Vazquez[/font]
SPAIN | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22Vazquez's stock has dropped like a rock since rumors surfaced two weeks ago that he wants to stay in Spain next year. Combine that with two so-so group workouts for NBA executives and he's in trouble. Still, he has way too much talent to slip too far in the draft and would be a nice complement on the front line to Pau Gasol. Jerry West is also a huge fan of Julius Hodge, so he could be the pick here if Vazquez goes earlier. The Grizzlies have also been shopping this pick. The Cavs, Pistons and the Blazers (who are looking for a second No. 1) are in the mix.
Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Andrew Bynum, Roko Ukic, Jason Maxiell
20. DENVER NUGGETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Ike Diogu[/font]
ARIZONA STATE | JUNIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 21The Nuggets really wanted to get their hands on either McCants, Wright or Garcia and have tried to package their two first-round picks in an effort to move up. If it doesn't happen, it's tough to see Diogu slipping past here. The Nuggets could use another big body and the addition of Diogu could free them up to use Nene as trade bait to get a big-time two-guard in a trade.
Alternate Picks: Rashad McCants, Francisco Garcia, Julius Hodge, Luther Head
21. PHOENIX SUNS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Johan Petro[/font]
FRANCE | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 19Petro has the size and talent of a lottery pick, but he's been very slow to develop, which has caused some NBA teams to worry. Petro is probably another year or two away from helping a team, even if he does develop. However, if he ever gets it, he could be the perfect center in the Suns' system down the road. Don't be surprised if Nate Robinson also gets a look here. He's a perfect fit in their super-speed offense.
Alternate Picks: Nate Robinson, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Andray Blatche, Ersan Ilyasova
22. DENVER NUGGETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andrew Bynum[/font]
ST. JOSEPH, N.J. | H.S. | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 17The Nuggets have decided to either trade this pick or use it on a project. If Bynum falls this far (talk about knee problems may be sinking his stock at the moment), something will happen. Either a team will cut a deal to grab him or the Nuggets will take him themselves and develop him as a long-term replacement for Marcus Camby.
Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, C.J. Miles, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Ersan Ilyasova
23. SACRAMENTO KINGS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chris Taft[/font]
PITTSBURGH | SOPHOMORE | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 250 | AGE: 20Taft has the size and strength of a lottery pick and the work ethic of an NBDL player. Still, he's a steal once teams begin drafting in the 20s. He has the physical tools to replace Chris Webber on the Kings' front line. But will Rick Adelman ever be able to motivate him?
Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Ersan Ilyasova, Monta Ellis, David Lee
24. HOUSTON ROCKETS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wayne Simien[/font]
KANSAS | SENIOR | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 255 | AGE: 22Despite reports to the contrary, the Rockets likely will keep this pick. Houston could use a tough rebounder with experience and Simien fits the bill. Concerns about injuries and size are the only things keeping him out of the lottery. He's one of those few guys who aren't afraid to go inside and bang, but also has a nice perimeter game. He's a safe pick. Point guards Ukic and Luther Head could also be steals here.
Alternate Picks: Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Julius Hodge
25. SEATTLE SONICS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Jarrett Jack[/font]
GEORGIA TECH | JUNIOR | POINT GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 200 | AGE: 21Jack could be off the board in the mid-first round, but it's conceivable that he slips all the way to here. He's a very good point guard prospect who just needs to cut down on his turnovers. With Antonio Daniels set to bolt in free agency, the Sonics have a strong need for a back-up point guard with size and toughness.
Alternate Picks: Ersan Ilyasova, Luther Head, Roko Ukic, Angelo Gigli
26. DETROIT PISTONS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Julius Hodge[/font]
NORTH CAROLINA ST | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 205 | AGE: 21Hodge may not be the greatest shooter in the draft, but he has all the intangibles Joe Dumars loves in his players. He's tough, versatile and he seems to want it more than most guys on the floor. The team is also looking strongly at Ryan Gomes, a Corliss Williamson-like forward and Jason Maxiell, the mini-Ben Wallace.
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Alternate Picks: Ryan Gomes, Nate Robinson, Jason Maxiell
27. UTAH JAZZ [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Martynas Andriuskevicius[/font]
LITHUANIA | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 7-3 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 19This pick assumes that the Jazz are swapping with the Blazers. Portland once considered taking Andriuskevicius in the lottery and would be ecstatic to get a player of his talent this low in the draft. If Utah keeps the pick, it's tough to argue that they'd do it differently, though they could go for Roko Ukic if they didn't get a point guard earlier.
Alternate Picks: Roko Ukic, Ersan Ilyasova, Jason Maxiell
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Ersan Ilyasova[/font]
TURKEY | SMALL FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 18The Spurs have a history of mining international diamonds in the rough late in the first round. Ilyasova would be no exception. He's big, athletic, and very skilled. The only reason he slips this far is because an ankle injury ******** his development this year.
Alternate Picks: Julius Hodge, Mickael Gelebale, David Lee, Axel Hervelle
29. MIAMI HEAT [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Luther Head[/font]
ILLINOIS | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 180 | AGE: 22Head may be the biggest steal in the draft if he lasts this long. Teams will start seriously considering him in the mid first round. He'd be awesome in the Miami backcourt next to Dwyane Wade. There's also talk that the Heat are high on local product Matt Walsh along with rumors that the Heat may have promised Serbian center Mile Ilic.
Alternate Picks: Matt Walsh, Mile Ilic, Chris Taft, Wayne Simien
30. NEW YORK KNICKS [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Andray Blatche[/font]
SOUTH KENT PREP | H.S. | POWER FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18Blatche has been under the radar all year, in part because he's insisted on not playing like a 7-footer in order to show NBA scouts that he's versatile. Blatche has been referred to as a poor man's Kevin Garnett. He runs the floor well, can handle the ball, has 3-point range on his jumper and is an excellent rebounder. He may be a year or two away, but eventually he and Channing Frye could be a great pair on the Knicks' front line.
Alternate Picks: Monta Ellis, Mile Ilic
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