How Great is the 2017 draft class?

[slinslin]

Are we even watching the same play? At the time Bridges could stop his momentum and gather himself the play is already over. There was no way he was ever going to be able to collapse and get back in rebounding position after overcommitting to the close-out.

 

[slinslin]

Robert Williams returns to Texas AM. That is one lottery prospect out of the draft.

 

[Russ Smith]

cmon those 2 kids grew up together. They were jawing with each other the whole game. Bridges even intentionally bumped him during a dead ball. Nobody is saying he doesn't play hard but he quit on that play because he knew the game was over and Jackson had beat him and he didn't want to be anywhere near the rim when Jackson dunked.

It wasn't as bad as the infamous Budinger running away from the basket to avoid getting dunked on by kevin Love play, but the reason he didn't try and help and recover is he didn't want to be in the picture when Josh dunked.

That was a close game, Jackson took over and dominated at the end just like Ball did in the Cincy game. that's what truly great college players do. Bridges is very good, he's not as good as Jackson.

 

[Cheesebeef]

I can't believe either side of this argument. Bridges got blown by at the end of the game and was prob exhausted from trying to carry the team... AND Jackson flat out took over at crunch time.

For me... Bridges looks like a tweener and Jackson a true SF.

 

[Finito]

I've never wanted a player in the draft more than I want Jackson the kid is gonna be a stud

 

[sunsfan88]

If this is actually true, then I definitely don't want anyone from that family because I'm sure the idiotic father has poisioned their kids with even more venom

http://www.totalprosports.com/2017/03/21/lavar-ball-wont-let-kids-see-sick-mother/

Considering the amount of reports out there about this, it certainly has at least some credibility imo.

 

[Mainstreet]

The father needs to be taken into consideration by any team looking to draft Lonzo Ball. He has become that much of a distraction.

 

[Russ Smith]

If this is actually true, then I definitely don't want anyone from that family because I'm sure the idiotic father has poisioned their kids with even more venom

http://www.totalprosports.com/2017/03/21/lavar-ball-wont-let-kids-see-sick-mother/

Considering the amount of reports out there about this, it certainly has at least some credibility imo.

That's the rumor I alluded to the other day with respect to how well Lonzo has played if that's true. Nobody seems to know. I have seen UCLA fans insist the mom was sitting in front of them at a HS game 4 days after the alleged stroke, I've seen people insist the story is true. Bill Plaschke referred to it in the LA Times as a well known family secret which didn't make much sense. Some ***** reporter asked Lonzo about it at the press conference after the Kent State game and he didn't deny it he said no comment that's family business.

If it's true it bothers me that Lavar Ball is doing it, but I have no idea if it's true.

With respect to poisoning the kids, Lonzo Ball has been an absolute joy to watch this year, he seemingly has no ego he just wants to win. I think he's personality wise the polar opposite of his dad, most people that know him say he's more like the mom.

And again, if the story is true, his recent performance is remarkable. I can't imagine a 19 year old kid going out and playing that well with something like that hanging over him.

 

[Ouchie-Z-Clown]

I wouldn't be surprised at all if once lonzo goes pro, grabs a big contract, moves into his own place he says, "Dad, **** or I won't acknowledge BigBaller" and I'd applaud.

 

[overseascardfan]

I wouldn't be surprised at all if once lonzo goes pro, grabs a big contract, moves into his own place he says, "Dad, **** or I won't acknowledge BigBaller" and I'd applaud.

Are people buying Big Baller apparel? I know there's a website but is it available in stores. I wouldn't buy the product because of LeVar, I can't be the only one.

 

[JCSunsfan]

Now this is interesting to watch. Its the Ball brothers vs. TJ Leaf in high school. I am surprised that Leaf is not getting more interest in this draft. He is a very good player. Great mobility, great skills, great range, good rebounder.

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[sunsfan88]

That's the rumor I alluded to the other day with respect to how well Lonzo has played if that's true. Nobody seems to know. I have seen UCLA fans insist the mom was sitting in front of them at a HS game 4 days after the alleged stroke, I've seen people insist the story is true. Bill Plaschke referred to it in the LA Times as a well known family secret which didn't make much sense. Some ***** reporter asked Lonzo about it at the press conference after the Kent State game and he didn't deny it he said no comment that's family business.

If it's true it bothers me that Lavar Ball is doing it, but I have no idea if it's true.

With respect to poisoning the kids, Lonzo Ball has been an absolute joy to watch this year, he seemingly has no ego he just wants to win. I think he's personality wise the polar opposite of his dad, most people that know him say he's more like the mom.

And again, if the story is true, his recent performance is remarkable. I can't imagine a 19 year old kid going out and playing that well with something like that hanging over him.

I don't think Lonzo will be the problem but his dad certainly can be.

If the Suns draft him, I can already see him complaining about Bledsoe starting over him. Or if the Suns trade Bledsoe and Lonzo is indeed starting, then I can see him calling out Booker the same way he did Lonzo's other UCLA teammates. Something like "Lonzo is the star of the Suns, not Devin Booker" or something like that or bashing Booker in games that he shoots like crap in etc.

Can you imagine how it would go over in the PROs to have a teammate's dad calling you out publicly? It's a nightmare waiting to happen.

And I can't remember the last PG who had a weird shooting form who got drafted and played well. I still think he will struggle with his shot in the big leagues and he's also really limited athletically.

 

[slinslin]

I dont think the father is a big deal if Lonzo is the BPA. Though if the latest story about the mother is true than that would throw some shade at Lonzo in my opinion. He is old enough to make his own decision so that "his father does not allow him to" is not an excuse.

But as soon as you are in the situation where you think you have a few comparable prospects why take the one with possible baggage?

For the life of me I can't understand Suns fans who want Josh Jackson. We are probably going to be a in a good position to make a decision between some of the top prospects.

Why take the one that is
a) considerably older than the others
b) has shown very bad judgement if not character
c) and struggles in the most important aspect of his position, shooting?
d) comes from a school that has a recent long history of players not reaching their predicted potential or producing players with questionable character
- Oubre? looks bad
- Wiggins? is a good scorer but as an overall player not nearly what people expected him to be
- Embiid? Barely played at Kansas or in the NBA
- Ben McLemore? Bust
- Thomas Robinson? Bust
- Brandon Rush? Bust
- Julian Wright? Bust
- Xavier Henry? Bust

The Morri have been good relative to their draft position.

 

[JCSunsfan]

A. He just turned 20. Hardly a graybeard.
B. Very bad? In what way? There was a minor incident.
C. He is shooting 51% from the field and 39% from three. That's not a weakness.
D. I don't get the school argument at all. What in the world does Embiid's injury history have to do with how Josh Jackson will perform in the NBA?

I suppose, if you could make the case that Kansas runs a system that covers players weaknesses and makes them look better than they are, maybe there would be something there. But usually that type of system covers lack of athleticism or bad defensive play. That is clearly not the case here.

I read your criticism of Jackson and looked at him more closely. I like him even more now.

 

[DWKB]

I dont think the father is a big deal if Lonzo is the BPA. Though if the latest story about the mother is true than that would throw some shade at Lonzo in my opinion. He is old enough to make his own decision so that "his father does not allow him to" is not an excuse.

But as soon as you are in the situation where you think you have a few comparable prospects why take the one with possible baggage?

For the life of me I can't understand Suns fans who want Josh Jackson. We are probably going to be a in a good position to make a decision between some of the top prospects.

Why take the one that is
a) considerably older than the others
b) has shown very bad judgement if not character
c) and struggles in the most important aspect of his position, shooting?
d) comes from a school that has a recent long history of players not reaching their predicted potential or producing players with questionable character
- Oubre? looks bad
- Wiggins? is a good scorer but as an overall player not nearly what people expected him to be
- Embiid? Barely played at Kansas or in the NBA
- Ben McLemore? Bust
- Thomas Robinson? Bust
- Brandon Rush? Bust
- Julian Wright? Bust
- Xavier Henry? Bust

The Morri have been good relative to their draft position.

You can go to hell with this post IMO

 

[pokerface]

For the life of me I can't understand Suns fans who want Josh Jackson. We are probably going to be a in a good position to make a decision between some of the top prospects.

Why take the one that is
a) considerably older than the others
b) has shown very bad judgement if not character
c) and struggles in the most important aspect of his position, shooting?
d) comes from a school that has a recent long history of players not reaching their predicted potential or producing players with questionable character
- Oubre? looks bad
- Wiggins? is a good scorer but as an overall player not nearly what people expected him to be
- Embiid? Barely played at Kansas or in the NBA
- Ben McLemore? Bust
- Thomas Robinson? Bust
- Brandon Rush? Bust
- Julian Wright? Bust
- Xavier Henry? Bust

The Morri have been good relative to their draft position.

Well I'm no draft expert like you slin but the guy is an athletic phenom which can't be taught unlike shooting which can be learned. But shooting can be a gifted thing as well... Plus Jackson plays good defense which is something the suns desperately need.

Bottomline we see more of an upside (and more excitement) with Jackson. Tatum is more refined and more the sure thing but less superstar potential IMO.

 

[Mainstreet]

I don't think Lonzo will be the problem but his dad certainly can be.

If the Suns draft him, I can already see him complaining about Bledsoe starting over him. Or if the Suns trade Bledsoe and Lonzo is indeed starting, then I can see him calling out Booker the same way he did Lonzo's other UCLA teammates. Something like "Lonzo is the star of the Suns, not Devin Booker" or something like that or bashing Booker in games that he shoots like crap in etc.

Can you imagine how it would go over in the PROs to have a teammate's dad calling you out publicly? It's a nightmare waiting to happen.

And I can't remember the last PG who had a weird shooting form who got drafted and played well. I still think he will struggle with his shot in the big leagues and he's also really limited athletically.

I can also see Lonzo Ball eventually going to the Lakers at the first opportunity because this is reportedly what the father wants. He might want it as well. I would not like to hear this drum beat throughout his tenure with the Suns.

 

[Mainstreet]

Well I'm no draft expert like you slin but the guy is an athletic phenom which can't be taught unlike shooting which can be learned. But shooting can be a gifted thing as well... Plus Jackson plays good defense which is something the suns desperately need.

Bottomline we see more of an upside (and more excitement) with Jackson. Tatum is more refined and more the sure thing but less superstar potential IMO.

If the Suns were able to swap draft picks (presuming they select #1) for assets and still draft Jackson, I would be ecstatic.

I guess it all depends on how the Suns view the early selections and whether they want to draft a PG.

 

[slinslin]

A. He just turned 20. Hardly a graybeard. He is a freshman and just 4 months younger than Devin Booker after 2 full NBA seasons. He is 1 and a half years older than Markelle Fultz. That should be taken into account when comparing Jackson to other freshman. Jayson Tatum is also more than a full year younger than Jackson.
B. Very bad? In what way? There was a minor incident. He threatened to beat a female Kansas basketball player, kicked her cars' door and light. He also damaged another car in an accident and left the scene without notice.
C. He is shooting 51% from the field and 39% from three. That's not a weakness. He is shooting like 55% from the freethrow line.
D. I don't get the school argument at all. What in the world does Embiid's injury history have to do with how Josh Jackson will perform in the NBA? a lot of Kansas lottery picks have been busts.

I suppose, if you could make the case that Kansas runs a system that covers players weaknesses and makes them look better than they are, maybe there would be something there. But usually that type of system covers lack of athleticism or bad defensive play. That is clearly not the case here.

I read your criticism of Jackson and looked at him more closely. I like him even more now.

 

[Russ Smith]

Are people buying Big Baller apparel? I know there's a website but is it available in stores. I wouldn't buy the product because of LeVar, I can't be the only one.

I wouldn't buy it because of the cost. who wants a 50-60 dollar tshirt?

 

[Russ Smith]

Now this is interesting to watch. Its the Ball brothers vs. TJ Leaf in high school. I am surprised that Leaf is not getting more interest in this draft. He is a very good player. Great mobility, great skills, great range, good rebounder.

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I love Leaf but I think his outside shot is misleading. He just barely has NCAA 3 range, he can make the short corner 3 and the straight on 3 but he struggles at the angles. He has this weird habit of rolling his wrist, most of his missed FT's he does it, same on missed 3's the ball has a weird spin. It can be worked on but where Markkanen is a legit knockdown college 3 shooter, Leaf isn't. He's careful to take the wide open ones only.

Great player though

 

[Russ Smith]

I don't think Lonzo will be the problem but his dad certainly can be.

If the Suns draft him, I can already see him complaining about Bledsoe starting over him. Or if the Suns trade Bledsoe and Lonzo is indeed starting, then I can see him calling out Booker the same way he did Lonzo's other UCLA teammates. Something like "Lonzo is the star of the Suns, not Devin Booker" or something like that or bashing Booker in games that he shoots like crap in etc.

Can you imagine how it would go over in the PROs to have a teammate's dad calling you out publicly? It's a nightmare waiting to happen.

And I can't remember the last PG who had a weird shooting form who got drafted and played well. I still think he will struggle with his shot in the big leagues and he's also really limited athletically.

I can see some of that but really limited athletically? he's deceptively quick, has a great change of directions and can get up off the floor, those lob dunks he's throwing down those aren't easy.

 

[Russ Smith]

I can also see Lonzo Ball eventually going to the Lakers at the first opportunity because this is reportedly what the father wants. He might want it as well. I would not like to hear this drum beat throughout his tenure with the Suns.

That's the part I totally agree with. One caveat, Lonzo's favorite player is LeBron, I assume he's a lakers fan but I don't really know if that's true.

But certainly there would be concern if someone other than the Lakers get him that he might just be waiting to leave.

 

[Mainstreet]

That's the part I totally agree with. One caveat, Lonzo's favorite player is LeBron, I assume he's a lakers fan but I don't really know if that's true.

But certainly there would be concern if someone other than the Lakers get him that he might just be waiting to leave.

This would be a reason for the Suns to trade down (if it looks to be true) providing they get the 1st or 2nd pick. However, the Suns would need to portend they are going to draft Ball to get assets in return for trading down.

It will be interesting to see if Fultz still projects as the first pick in the draft as it nears.

 

[elindholm]

One caveat, Lonzo's favorite player is LeBron

Based on what I've read about Ball and his father, they seem more interested in parlaying Lonzo's basketball ability into a wealth-earning brand than in succeeding in the game of basketball itself. So it's no surprise if Ball looks up to James, who has been vocal since the beginning of his career about wanting to use basketball specifically to make himself rich.