Keefe's 2016 NBA Mock Draft

Before we get started, a quick breakdown of what you got here.  This is how I WOULD draft it if I were the GM for all 30 teams, not how I expect the draft to go.  Also I am not predicting any trades (which of course there will be), so the Celtics won't take 8 players... but if they did, here is who I would have them take...

Round 1

1. Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Simmons, F, LSU, Freshmen

Despite some issues (shooting, not making the tournament, trying to angle for LA) I still think Simmons is the best player in the draft and who Philly should take.  They have all kinds of problems and need to figure it out, or don't, doesn't really effect me.

2. Los Angeles Lakers - Brandon Ingram, SF, Duke, Freshmen

Just a string bean of a guy, but so was/is Kevin Durant.  That is obviously an unfair comparison, one he will have to deal with.  He may not even stay in LA long, as LeBron will sign with the Lakers and then he will trade Ingram for Carmelo.

3. Boston Celtics - Buddy Hield, SG, Oklahoma, Senior

People act like he came out of no where this year.  Not true.  He was Big 12 Player of the Year as a Junior, he improved every year he was at Oklahoma.  Best shooter in the draft, sign me up.

4. Phoenix Suns - Jamal Murray, SG, Kentucky, Freshmen

I also love this guy.  The "Blue Arrow" and if the Celtics draft him, well, he'd just be the "Green Arrow" almost makes too much sense.  Not a super-athlete but his shooting ability should make him an NBA starter in short order.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves - Dragan Bender, PF, Croatia, International

6. New Orleans Pelicans - Marquese Chriss, PF, Washington, Freshmen

Unreal athlete whose stock is flying up draft boards.  I'd be worried about his poor rebounding (and Tyrus Thomas comparison) but his potential is too high to pass up at #6.

7. Denver Nuggets - Malik Beasley, SG, Florida State, Freshmen

I love shooters.  There aren't many in this draft.  After Hield and Murray there might not be another one that even goes in the lottery.  If I'm the Nuggets (and I am in this scenario remember) I'd pair up Emmanuel Mudiay with the next best shooter IMO, Malik Beasley.  (Maybe trade down for him, but I'm not here to orchestrate deals.)

8. Sacramento Kings - Kris Dunn, PG, Providence, Junior

I'm not even sure he's as good as Marcus Smart, but that may not be a horrible thing as I am very pro-Marcus Smart.  I'd be concerned about his injuries and his jump shot, will probably struggle to score in the NBA but can make play for his teammates and defend.

9. Toronto Raptors - Timothe Luwawu, SG, France, International

This is based more off of need for Toronto than me being a huge fan of... who is it, Tim Luwawu?  I don't claim to be well versed in the international players outside or scouting reports and the occasional YouTube video, but Luwawu feels like the next best guard in the draft and the Raps may be saying goodbye to DeMar DeRozan.

10. Milwaukee Bucks - Jakob Poeltl, C, Utah, Sophomore

Sneaky lot of big men in this draft and Poeltl is right at the top.  He was very productive last year at Utah (17 points 9 rebounds) and is more than just a plotting 7 footer as he gets up and down the floor.  And if you're curious it's "Ya-kob Per-del"  I know, confusing.

11. Orlando Magic - Skal Labissiere, PF, Kentucky, Freshmen

This guy was projected to be the #1 pick in some places before the college season started.  But then, sadly for Skal, the college season started.  He sucked.  Just an awful player.  However by the end of the season he started to show off some of what everyone had been talking about.  7 footer, who can run and shoot.  Still a project, but could be worth it.

12. Utah Jazz - Wade Baldwin, G, Vanderbilt, Sophomore

In a draft without a ton of great guards (or perhaps players), Baldwin could see himself go in the lottery.  More of a combo guard with crazy wingspan (6'11 while he's just 6'3).  He can defend and is a solid shooter (40% from 3).  14 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists last season.

13. Phoenix Suns - Henry Ellenson, PF, Marquette, Freshmen

I've read 3 player comparisons for Henry Ellenson: Kevin Love, Brian Scalabrine, Brian Cardinal (The Janitor).  Jesus Christ guys, we can only compare him to other white players?  Sad times.

14. Chicago Bulls - Dejounte Murray,  G, Washington, Freshmen

Murray is another great one-and-done athlete out of Washington, like Criss, who should be criticized for missing the tournament.  However he's an intriguing player who can play both guard spots, he'll need to add muscle but has the ability to create highlights.

15. Denver Nuggets - Domantas Sabonis, PF/C, Gonzaga, Sophomore

Arvydas Sabonis' son!  It'd make me feel older if Arvydas wasn't already like 50 years old when he joined the Portland Trail Blazers.  Younger Sabonis was productive with the Zags last year (17.5 points, 11.8 rebounds.)

16. Boston Celtics - Diamond Stone, C, Maryland, Freshmen

I like Diamond Stone and I'm not sure why.  Probably the name.  He's in the Kendrick Perkins role but if you are looking for a big body to take up space, score a few buckets and maybe be an enforcer I think Diamond is the guy.

17. Memphis Grizzlies - Taurean Prince, SF, Baylor, Senior

Won't be a flashy pick but Prince is a guy who could step in and defend the scoring wings around the league.  Feels like a 0 time All-Star but 11 year career type of player.

18. Detroit Pistons - Isaiah Whitehead, G, Seton Hall, Sophomore

Most have him going in the 2nd round so this is one of my big leaps (along with Beasley) in this 1st round.  Whitehead went to the famed Abraham Lincoln High School (Marbury, Telfair, Stephenson) where he was a McDonald's All-American before going to Seton Hall.  He improved significantly from his freshmen year to his sophomore year and helped the Pirates win the Big East.  He's tough, can score, defend, I'd take him in the 1st round.

19. Denver Nuggets - Jaylen Brown, SF, California, Freshmen

On the flip side of Whitehead, here's Jaylen Brown.  Everyone thinks he's a Top 5 pick, only problem is, he sucks.  To be fair, the only games I saw Brown play start to finish were in the Pac-12 Tournament and NCAA Tournament, where HE WAS HORRIBLE.  He put up 14.6 points per game, while shooting under 30% from 3 and 65% from the FT line.  Not a fan.  Has BUST written all over him.  But I've been wrong before, so I'll take him here at 19.

20. Indiana Pacers - Demetrius Jackson, PG, Notre Dame, Junior

Little guy had a nice season for the Irish (16 points, 5 assists).  Not a great shooter but won't kill you like some others (JAYLEN BROWN).  Could be a solid back up PG in the league.

21. Atlanta Hawks - Ivica Zubac, C, Croatia, International

Good ole Ivica Zubac.

22. Charlotte Hornets - Deyonta Davis, PF, Michigan State, Freshmen

One of these potential picks you have to make.  Probably more D-League than NBA next year but in the 20s may be worth a shot.

23. Boston Celtics - Denzel Valentine, SG, Michigan State, Senior

I usually don't like drafting college seniors in the first round, but in this scenario I have the Celtics taking the 2 best college players/ seniors from last year.  C's don't have a lot behind Jae Crowder right now and I think Valentine could bring some of that toughness and physicality to the position.  He can defend 2's and 3's and is ready to help out next year.  I didn't love him during the season but have started to talk myself into him.

24. Philadelphia 76ers - Furkan Korkmaz, SG, Turkey, International

Read a comparison to Gordon Hayward.  That's kinda a interracial comparison, right?  Least they did't say Hedo Turkoglu

25. Los Angeles Clippers - Gary Payton II, PG, Oregon State, Senior

He's obviously no where near the player his father was, but GPII filled up the box score as a Beaver and I think will be a useful piece at the next level.  Most mocks have him in the 2nd round but I'd take a chance last 1st, especially for a team that is currently good, like the Clippers.

26. Philadelphia 76ers - Thon Maker, C, Australia, International

Raw.  Maker is 7'1 and 215 pounds.  I'm 5'11 and if I have a big breakfast, 215 pounds.  That can't be good.  For either of us.

27. Toronto Raptors - Malachi Richardson, SG, Syracuse, Canada

Richardson can shoot it a bit, even though his overall numbers weren't great.  So let's call him streaky.  But at 6'6 with a 7 foot wing span he makes for an interesting prospect.  Throw in the likely departure of DeRozan and it'd make since for Toronto to look at this spot.  (Had them taking Luwawu at 9.)

28. Phoenix Suns - Caris LeVert, G, Michigan, Senior

Big guard who can guards PG, SG, and SF.  Another skinny guy, lots of them in the draft, needs to mix in a protein bar and arm/chest day.

29. San Antonio Spurs - Brice Johnson, PF, North Carolina, Senior

I haven't like a North Carolina player out of the draft since maybe Vince Carter or maybe Rashad McCants (yikes!), but Brice Johnson was so productive (17-10) plus he feels like such a Spurs pick.

30. Golden State Warriors - Ben Bentil, F, Providence, Sophomore

Not a lot of love for Ben Bentil in the 1st round and I'm not sure why.  One of the knocks on him is that he's an undersized PF at 6'8.  But if you look around the league, that's what a PF is now.  All teams play small, and what a fit he would be with Golden State.  He's already an established offensive player, he put up 21 points per game last year, 33% from 3, 78% at the line, can rebound a bit, and his wingspan gives him a chance to defend bigger dudes.


Round 2
31. Celtics - Cat Barber, PG, North Carolina State, Junior
32. Lakers - Damian Jones, C, Vanderbilt, Junior
33. Clippers - Tyler Ulis, PG, Kentucky, Sophomore
34. Suns - Cheick Diallo, PF, Kansas, Freshmen
35. Celtics - Juan Hernangomez, PF, Spain, International
36. Bucks - Malcolm Brogdon, SG, Virginia, Senior
37. Rockets - Paul Zipser, SF, Germany, International
38. Bucks - Kay Felder, PG, Oakland, Junior
39. Pelicans - Stephen Zimmerman, C, UNLV, Freshmen
40. Pelicans - Patrick McCaw, SG, UNLV, Sophomore
41. Magic - A.J. Hammons, C, Purdue, Senior
43. Jazz - Guerschon Yabusele, PF, France, International
43. Rockets - Daniel Hamilton, SF, UConn, Sophomore
44. Hawks - Ante Zizic, C, Croatia, International
45. Celtics - Wayne Seldon, SG, Kansas, Junior
46. Mavericks - Georgios Papagiannis, C, Greece, International
47. Magic - Joel Bolomboy, PF, Weber State, Senior
48. Bulls - Robert Carter, PF, Maryland, Junior
49. Pistons - Zhou Qi, C, China, International
50. Pacers - DeAndre Bembry, SF, St. Joseph's, Junior
51. Celtics - Alex Poythress, F, Kentucky, Senior
52. Jazz - Jarrod Uthoff, F, Iowa, Senior
53. Nuggets - Isaiah Cousins, G, Oklahoma, Senior
54. Hawks - Sheldon McClellan, SG, Miami, Senior
55. Nets - Michael Gbinije, SG, Syracuse, Senior
56. Nuggets - Zach Auguste, PF, Notre Dame, Senior
57. Grizzlies - Fred VanVleet, PG, Wichita State, Senior
58. Celtics - Georges Niang, F, Iowa State, Senior
59. Kings - Perry Ellis, PF, Kansas, Senior
60. Jazz - Kyle Wiltjer, F, Gonzaga, Senior

2015 NBA Mock Draft

Once again, this is how I would draft 1-60.  Not predicting trades. (But I'd expect a ton of them.)

1. Minnesota Timberwolves - Karl-Anthony Towns, Kentucky, C, Freshman

Don't let the low numbers at Kentucky fool you, Towns is the best overall big man in the draft.  Even though the NBA is going smaller and smaller an elite big like this would be dumb to pass on.

2. Los Angeles Lakers - Jahlil Okafor, Duke, C, Freshman

One of the worst defensive bigs in the history of college, least that's what it sounds like now.  Skilled offensively was the top rated guy just about all year until everyone realized Towns was better.

3. Philadelphia 76ers - D'Angelo Russell, Ohio State, PG, Freshman

Can do it all.  (Hopefully a lot better than Evan Turner, who put up similar numbers at OSU).  Perhaps the most NBA ready guard in the Draft, could see LA grabbing him at #2.

4. New York Knicks - Justise Winslow, Duke, SG, Freshman

This is my favorite player in the Draft.  I wouldn't take him over those other guys, but Winslow could be a perennial All-Star.  D is there right now, O not far behind.

5. Orlando Magic - Trey Lyles, Kentucky, F, Freshman

I honestly don't know what to expect out of Lyles at the next level.  Maybe the most intriguing prospect in the Draft.  #5?  Seems high.

6. Sacramento Kings - Emmanuel Mudiay, China, PG, International

Wish he played at SMU.  I'd have a much better idea of what kind of player he is.  Year in China playing Yi Jianlain had to help.  Right?

7. Denver Nuggets - Kristaps Porzingis, Latvia, PF, International

Love the comparisons for Porzingis.  Basically every Euro player drafted in the lottery in the last decade.  Never seen him play.  Probably risky to take at #7.

8. Detroit Pistons - Bobby Portis, Arkansas, PF, Sophomore

SEC Player of the Year.  Love Portis.  Not an above the rim type guy but I could see him being a double-double player.

9. Charlotte Hornets - Devin Booker, Kentucky, SG, Freshman

Best shooter in the Draft?  Yes.  Best shooter in the Draft.

10. Miami Heat - Stanley Johnson, Arizona, SF, Freshman

Expected a lot more out of him last year at Arizona, but like Lyles, so much potential.

11. Indiana Pacers - Willie Cauley-Stein, Kentucky, C, Junior

All D no O.  But is he good enough at that end to be worth it?  Ben Wallace was.

12. Utah Jazz - Sam Dekker, Wisconsin, SF, Junior

I like him more than his teammate Frank the Tank.  Dekker can do a lot, sneaky athletic (something you say when it's a white guy).

13. Phoenix Suns - Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Arizona, SF, Sophomore

I'm a fan of Hollis-Jefferson and his ability to guard perimeter players.  He's not going to score a lot, but could fit a nice role for a team.

14. Oklahoma City Thunder - Montrezl Harrell, Louisville, PF, Junior

Lottery might be high for Harrell, but this isn't the greatest draft in the world.  Tough guy who can bang and shoot it a bit.

15. Atlanta Hawks - Kelly Oubre, Kansas, SF, Freshman

Expected more from Oubre this year as well.  Is he James Young?  Is that good?  I don't know.  I'd lean, yes...?

16. Boston Celtics - Myles Turner, Texas, C, Freshman

Does NOT move very well, but he's a mountain of a man.  Clogs up the paint and has an offensive game to boot.

17. Milwaukee Bucks - Cameron Payne, Murray State, PG, Sophomore

How do you not like these small school PGs?  Curry (Davidson), Lillard (Weber St.), Payton (La-Lafayette),

18. Houston Rockets - Frank Kaminsky, Wisconsin, PF, Senior

I just don't see him being great in the NBA.  Although watching the NCAA Tournament he can shoot so that won't hurt.

19. Washington Wizards - Jordan Mickey, LSU, PF, Sophomore

Kinda wish he stayed at LSU to play with Ben Simmons.  Although that would not be a Top 3 wish of mine overall.

20. Toronto Raptors - RJ Hunter, Georgia State, SG, Junior

Did not shoot it very well last year (<30% from 3), but this will have to become his calling card to be a worth while NBA player.

21. Dallas Mavericks - Delon Wright, Utah, G, Senior

Poor man's D'Angelo Russell.  He is also the brother of Dorell Wright.

22. Chicago Bulls - Jospeh Young, Oregon, G, Senior

Perhaps the best scorer in the Draft.  He returned for his senior year and was the PAC-12 Player of the Year.  Fun to watch, little Allen Iverson-ish.

23. Portland Trail Blazers - Robert Upshaw, Washington, C, Sophomore

Guy has reach for days.  He can block shots, not sure what else.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers - Rashad Vaughn, UNLV, SG, Freshman

Solid shooter.  Come to think of it, "Shooter" with Mark Walhberg was a solid film.

25. Memphis Grizzlies - Tyus Jones, Duke, PG, Freshman

Nice little point guard.  Emphasis on the "little."

26. San Antonio Spurs - Mario Hezonja, Croatia, G/F, International

Everyone has him going in the lottery.  I get scared off easy.  For every Dirk & Gasol there's a ton of Jan Vesley's, Tskitishvili's, Yi's, etc.   

27. Los Angeles Lakers - Jerian Grant, Notre Dame, PG, Senior

Harvey Grant's son, Horace's nephew.  Solid player for the Irish.

28. Boston Celtics - Aaron Harrison, Kentucky, SG, Sophomore

Harrison (both really) were so overrated to the point where I now think they are a bit underrated.  Maybe they won't go in Round 1, but I'll take

29. Brooklyn Nets - Dakari Johnson, Kentucky, C, Sophomore

Clearly I like the Kentucky guys more than anyone else.  I saw them play more than anyone else.  I think Johnson could be a decent rotational big.

30. Golden State Warriors - Kevon Looney, UCLA, PF, Freshman

NBA body who can rebound.  I wonder if he will ever be able to score consistently.

2nd Round:

31. Timberwolves - Justin Anderson, Virginia, SF, Junior
32. Rockets - Andrew Harrison, Kentucky, PG, Sophomore
33. Celtics - Larry Nance Jr., Wyoming,
34. Lakers - Christian Wood, UNLV, PF, Sophomore
35. 76ers - Cliff Alexander, Kansas, PF, Freshman
36. Timberwolves - Michael Frazier, Florida, SG, Sophomore
37. 76ers - Rakeem Christmas, Syracuse, PF, Senior
38. Pistons - Terry Rozier, Louisville, PG, Sophomore
39. Hornets - Jonathan Holmes, Texas, F, Senior
40. Heat - Chris McCullough, Syracuse, PF, Freshman
41. Nets - J.P. Tokoto, North Carolina, SG, Junior
42. Jazz - Pat Connaughton, Notre Dame, SG, Senior
43. Pacers - Vince Hunter, UTEP, PF, Sophomore
44. Suns - Anthony Brown, Stanford, SF, Senior
45. Celtics - Josh Richardson, Tennessee, SG, Senior
46. Bucks - Dez Wells, Maryland, SG, Senior
47. 76ers - Michael Qualls, Arkansas, SG, Junior
48. Thunder - D.J. Newbill, Penn State, SG, Senior
49. Wizards - Terran Petteway, Nebraska, SG, Junior
50. Hawks - Branden Dawson, Michigan State, PF, Senior
51. Magic - Marcus Thornton, William & Mary, G, Senior
52. Mavericks - Olivier Hanlan, Boston College, G, Junior
53. Cavaliers - Norman Powell, UCLA, SG, Senior
54. Jazz - Richaun Holmes, Bowling Green, PF, Senior
55. Spurs - Ryan Boatright, UConn, PG, Senior
56. Pelicans - Brandon Ashley, Arizona, PF, Junior
57. Nuggets - Cady Lalanne, UMass, PF, Senior
58. 76ers - Chris Walker, Florida, PF, Sophomore
59. Hawks - Quinn Cook, Duke, PG, Senior
60. 76ers - T.J. McConnell, Arizona, PG, Senior

NBA Draft Green Room Invitees

The following players were invited to the NBA Draft, Thursday night.

• Devin Booker (Kentucky)
• Willie Cauley-Stein (Kentucky)
• Sam Dekker (Wisconsin)
• Jerian Grant (Notre Dame)
• Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (Arizona)
• Stanley Johnson (Arizona)
• Frank Kaminsky (Wisconsin)
• Kevon Looney (UCLA)
• Trey Lyles (Kentucky)
• Emmanuel Mudiay (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Jahlil Okafor (Duke)
• Kelly Oubre, Jr. (Kansas)
• Cameron Payne( Murray State)
• Bobby Portis (Arkansas)
• Kristaps Porzingis (Latvia)
• D'Angelo Russell (Ohio State) 
• Karl-Anthony Towns (Kentucky)
• Myles Turner (Texas)
• Justise Winslow (Duke)

2015 NBA Draft Order

Round 1:

1. Minnesota Timberwolves
2. Los Angeles Lakers
3. Philadelphia 76ers
4. New York Knicks
5. Orlando Magic
6. Sacramento Kings
7. Denver Nuggets
8. Detroit Pistons
9. Charlotte Hornets
10. Miami Heat
11. Indiana Pacers
12. Utah Jazz
13. Phoenix Suns
14. Oklahoma City Thunder
---
15. Atlanta Hawks (via Nets)
16. Boston Celtics
17. Milwaukee Bucks
18. Houston Rockets (via Pelicans)
19. Washington Wizards
20. Toronto Raptors
21. Dallas Mavericks
22. Chicago Bulls
23. Portland Trail Blazers
24. Cleveland Cavaliers
25. Memphis Grizzlies
26. San Antonio Spurs
27. Los Angeles Lakers (via Rockets)
28. Boston Celtics (via Clippers)
29. Brooklyn Nets (via Hawks)
30. Golden State Warriors

Round 2:

31. Timberwolves
32. Rockets (via Knicks)
33. Celtics (via 76ers)
34. Lakers
35. 76ers (via Magic)
36. Timberwolves (via Kings)
37. 76ers (via Nuggets)
38. Pistons
39. Hornets
40. Heat
41. Nets
42. Jazz
43. Pacers
44. Suns
45. Celtics
46. Bucks
47. 76ers (via Pelicans)
48. Thunder
49. Wizards
50. Hawks (via Raptors)
51. Magic (via Bulls)
52. Mavericks
53. Nuggets (via Trail Blazers)
54. Jazz (via Cavaliers)
55. Spurs
56. Pelicans (via Grizzlies)
57. Nuggets (via Clippers)
58. 76ers (via Rockets)
59. Bucks (via Hawks)
60. 76ers (via Warriors)

Kentucky Is Going Pro

Not a huge shock, but Kentucky's Top 7 scorers from last year's Final 4 squad have declared for the NBA Draft.  (Don't feel bad, they'll be fine next year with Ulis, Poythress, Lee, and 4+ McDonald's All-Americans on the way.)

As of April 9th, here are my very specific guesses (without knowing the teams) of where these guys will get picked.

Karl-Anthony Towns, PF/C, freshmen (#1)

Willie Cauley-Stein, PF/C, junior (#10)

Trey Lyles, SF, freshmen (#14)

Devin Booker, SG, freshmen (#20)

Aaron Harrison, SG, sophomore (#25)

Andrew Harrison, PG, sophomore (#30)

Dakari Johnson, PF/C, sophomore (#50)

Celtics Future 1st Round Picks

2015
Own
Los Angeles Clippers
Dallas Mavericks

2016
Own
Brooklyn Nets
Cleveland Cavaliers (Top 10 Protected)

2017
Own
Right to Flip with Nets

2018
Own
Brooklyn Nets

Podcast: Keefe & B. Robb Talk NBA Draft

Rich Keefe's 2014 NBA Mock Draft

Disclaimer to the Mock Draft.  This is not a guess at 1-60, rather who I think should go in each spot.  It's like I'm the GM for all 30 teams.  I have the roster needs and what not in mind, so this isn't the 60 best players in order, but it's closer to that than other mocks who have something called "inside information."  So the first player announced in the Adam Silver Era will be...

1. Cleveland Cavaliers – Jabari Parker, SF, Duke, Freshmen

Parker has been my favorite player in the draft from beginning to end... even with the end not being an ideal one for him.  I think he has the best chance to be a multiple time All-Star in the NBA.  I understand the Wiggins and Embiid love, but I believe Parker could be even better and is also safer in my mind.  He's the best scorer in the draft and even though his defense is below average, that's something he can improve on with nothing more than effort.  Cavs should take him #1 and watch him be a 20+ scorer for years to come.  

2. Milwaukee Bucks – Andrew Wiggins, SG/SF, Kansas, Freshmen

Comparisons to LeBron James and Kevin Durant were insane from Jump Street.  Not fair.  He's not them, but no one is.  He lit up West Virginia (41 points) late in the year, but he also put out a stinker in their tournament loss to Stanford.  The potential is obvious, athleticism is nutty, I still like Parker more, but not by a whole lot.

3. Philadelphia 76ers – Aaron Gordon, PF, Arizona, Freshmen 

Big move up here.  The Embiid injury could (should) launch Gordon up a few spots.  Gordon is not even an average shooter right now, but he is an exceptional athlete and can immediately guard multiple positions in the NBA.  He's the youngest guy in the draft and reminds me (and many others) of a young Shawn Marion.  (Remember how good the Matrix was?  I do.) He should become a double-double guy and All-Defensive ability.  He may just catch alley-oops for a season or two, but by the time he is 20-21 (!) he could be a more well rounded offensive threat.  

4. Orlando Magic – Marcus Smart, PG, Oklahoma State, Sophomore

Stock in Smart has been all over the place.  He could have been the #1 pick last year and likely would have been #2 to the Magic, but he decided to go back to school to work on his point guard skills (not a PG in high school) and his shooting (still poor).  He had that shove on that racist Texas Tech fan and the Cowboys had a disappointing season.  There has been talk that he could be picked 8th or later, but I think his pre-draft workouts have helped him and he should be back in the Top 5.  He reminds me a little of a Derrick Rose or Russell Westbrook.  NBA strength already, only 6'3 but strong as hell.  Needs to shoot better obviously, but does a lot well.  I'm a fan!

5. Utah Jazz – Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana, Freshmen

How about the hands on this guy!?  Big, huge hands, long wing span and he can shoot.  He played on a bad Hoosiers team in his one season in college, so that was one of the reasons he didn't get the hype that many of the other freshmen received.  Utah stinks.  They managed to draft one of the few solid players in last year's draft (Trey Burke), doesn't mean they couldn't take Exum, but I think they go big and take a Derrick Favors (who was disappointing) replacement.  

6. BOSTON CELTICS – Joel Embiid, C, Kansas, Freshmen

FOOT INJURY!  Not even attending the draft, yikes.  It's also scary that his points, FG %, rebounds, and block numbers as a freshmen are most similar to Greg Oden and Anthony Davis.  That's the floor and ceiling right there.  The Hakeem comparisons are as aggressive as the Wiggins-LeBron ones.  If he is Oden, would you be shocked?  Embiid is the only legit center though in this draft, but I was worried when it was just the back, now the foot?  This is why it's not easy being a GM (I'd still like to take a shot though.)  I'll reluctantly take him at 6, only because of who has already come off the board (in this mock).  Either C's trade this pick to Minnesota who would be in rebuild, or the Celts themselves are going young/ tank for another year.  

7. Los Angeles Lakers – Dante Exum, G, Australia

I'm not as high on Exum as most.  I haven't seen much of him (have you?), and I'm even a little concerned about taking him here.  I've seen the YouTube clips, I've read all the scouting reports.  Is he Michael Carter-Williams?  Is that worth taking over a number of guys below?  He doesn't shoot well and I wasn't blown away by his athleticism at the Draft Combine.  If he ends up being a 2-guard, is he any better than Zach LaVine or even someone like Jordan Clarkson?  With all that being said, you can't miss out on the next big international stud (there have been a bunch).  I'd take him here, but not higher.  

8. Sacramento Kings – Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky, Freshmen

This foot injury is scary.  Will he need surgery this year, next year, year three?  He says no, but Woj says yes.  Who do you believe?  I saw he had a 38.5 max vertical jump at his workout with the Lakers.  So take that for what it's worth.  He was a double-double machine in his one year at Kentucky where he helped lead his team to the NCAA Finals.  He measured out at a true 6'9 with a 7 wingspan and already a strong NBA build.  Is he Zach Randolph?  Could he be Chris Webber if he improves his passing?  If I'm picking 8-10 I'm hoping the teams above freak out about the foot, cause I think he will be a solid pro for a long time.

9. Charlotte Hornets (from Pistons) – Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State, Sophomore

I just hope they give this pick a brand new Charlotte Hornets Starter jacket when he gets selected.  Good to have the Hornets back and more importantly, Bobcats gone, for good.   Harris is the best pure 2-guard in the class.  Some rumors floated that he might have some point guard ability (note: EVERY agent of shooting guards pushes their guy as also a point, especially if they don't have great size... like Harris.)  But Harris is a tough, smart, almost complete player after 2 years at Michigan State.  I don't think he's as good as Bradley Beal but a solid pick at 9.

10. Philadelphia 76ers (from Pelicans) – T.J. Warren, SF, North Carolina State, Sophomore

Another one of my favorite players in the draft right here.  Warren led the ACC in scoring (24.9 ppg, which was more than Jabari Parker), he does not shoot great from 3 (yet), but has good size for an NBA 3 and is creative at scoring in the lane.  He can create his own shot and should be a productive scorer in the league for sometime.  Solid rebounder (7 a game last year) if he buys in defensively, with his size he could become a complete player.  (I'm hoping if the Celtics stay at 17, he falls to them there.)

11.  Denver Nuggets – James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky, Freshmen

I like James Young more than most.  I believe he will turn into a lights out shooter.  I know he only shot 35% from 3 last year but it looks a lot better, if that makes sense. He has the size to play either the 2 or even the 3 as he is 6'7 with a 7 foot wingspan.  His agent is Jay-Z... which I also wanted to mention.  

12. Orlando Magic (from Knicks) – Dario Saric, F, Croatia

Saric was almost in the draft last year, and there was even some talk that he may pull out again this time around.  But the 6'10, 20 year old from Croatia is in.  He compares to Lamar Odom (on the court!).  Obviously, like Exum, one of the guys in the draft I know the least amount, but he's been one of the top international players for years and his style should translate to the NBA.  I'm not predicting All-Stars games, however at #12, worth a shot.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves – Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State, Senior

One of the few seniors I like in this draft (or really almost any draft).  He actually shot the 3 better than his teammate Gary Harris and Kentucky's James Young this year.  So, stretch 4 is appropriate.  He doesn't play overly athletic, but did you see him in the College Slam Dunk Contest?  You didn't? Well, take my word, he was impressive.  Big dunks.  6'10 with a 7'4 wingspan.  T-Wolves could be looking to replace their power forward...

14. Phoenix Suns – Doug McDermott, F, Creighton, Senior

Head Coach Jeff Hornacek got the most out of his team last year.  Gerald Green looked like a legit NBA player, as did the Morris twins.  Maybe they would be better off taking a guy who has more upside, but why not take a scorer like McDermott?  5th most points in NCAA history... that's nothing to sneeze at.  Not sure who he can guard.  Hide him on defense and utilize him as a scoring weapon.  This is the prime example of a player who will last as long as the place he goes.  Phoenix seems like a good spot for most.   

15. Atlanta Hawks – Jusef Nurkic, C, Bosnia

Well, here is another guy I'm basing off of YouTube, scouting reports, and hearsay, compared to actually watching with my own eyes.  But in a draft with few centers, Nurkic probably won't slide too far down the middle of the 1st round.  I like that he is 6'11 and 280.  A lot of these international guys who are 6'11/7'0 are always 210, and we hear "needs to add muscle," and "once he adds that NBA body."  This guy has already crossed that off his list.  

16. Chicago Bulls (from Hornets) – Elfrid Payton, PG, Louisiana-Lafayette, Junior 

Big fan of Payton (how many favorites can I have?).  Did not play in the best conference (Sun Belt stinks), but did compete in the U-19 for Team USA a year ago and played well against better competition also he has been playing great in pre-draft workouts.  I'll compare him to Rajon Rondo.  He doesn't shoot well, although he can score.  Good size 6'4 with a 6'8 wingspan.  19 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists per game is nice, but again it was in the Sun Belt.  He's a junior but only 20 years old.  Smart is better, Exum might be better, after that... Payton is the best point guard in the draft.

17. BOSTON CELTICS (from Nets) – Rodney Hood, SF, Duke, Sophomore

My pick in this draft class for a guy who will compete in a 3-Point Contest and a Dunk Contest.  Everyone watched Duke this year with both eyes on Jabari Parker, however Hood is legit in his own right.  He might disappear a little here and there (maybe in part due to Parker) but he can shoot the 3 and is athletic enough to get in the lane and even throw down over the defense.  He's 6'8, so size for the 3.  Will never be the lead scorer on your team, option 3 maybe 2 down the road is reasonable.

18. Phoenix Suns (from Wizards) – K.J. McDaniels, SG/SF, Clemson, Junior

If the Suns lose Eric Bledsoe, they will be looking for a replacement to pair with All-NBA PG Goran Dragic, and some more scoring.  McDaniels has been more of a small forward, but I think he can play either wing spot.  He put up 17 points, 7 rebounds last year on a bad Clemson team.  Great free throw shooter but an average 3 point shooter right now.  At 6'6, with a 6'11+ wingspan he could turn himself into a strong wing defender if he commits himself.      

19. Chicago Bulls – Nik Stauskas, SG, Michigan, Sophomore

Most people are higher on the Canadian by was of St. Mark's (ISL!).  He can shoot.  What else can he do?  He's got decent enough size for a 2-guard, and can handle better than you might expect.  Is he better, worse, or the same as J.J. Redick?  I guess it depends on how you view Redick.  I've been surprised by his time in the league and effectiveness.  He's a double-digit scorer, I'm not convinced Stauskas will be.  But, I've been wrong before.  

20. Toronto Raptors – Tyler Ennis, PG, Syracuse, Freshmen

Not a fan of Ennis.  Scouts seem to enjoy his work.  He became the face of Syracuse as they were riding a long winning streak last season, but were they really any good?  He should be the future PG of Team Canada (which could be a nice team: Wiggins, Tristan Thompson, A. Bennett, Olynyk, Stauskas, Andrew Nicholson, etc.)   Raptors may lose Kyle Lowry, so at #20 point guard could be the play.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Mavericks) –P.J. Hairston, SG, D-League/North Carolina

Hairston as we all know got booted out of North Carolina.  You have to be some kind of pain in the ass to get kicked out of one of these basketball schools, but he pulled it off.  He then joined the D-League where he put up over 20 points per game.  Don't get too excited about the D-League stats (Fab Melo had great games there), Glen Rice Jr., was great two years ago there post Georgia Tech and spent more time there then in the big show this year.  I did like Hairston while he was at UNC and he carried over some of his good on-court abilities to the D-League.  Hopefully he has matured (sounded like he did at the combine, for what it's worth), he could be good.

22. Memphis Grizzlies – Melvin Ejim, SF, Iowa State, Senior

Big fan of the Big 12 Player of the Year, Melvin Ejim.  He's 23 years old, put up 18-8 as a senior at Iowa State.  If he goes to a good team (Grizzlies here would work) he could be a nice role player off the bench at first, before perhaps even elevating himself to that #3 scorer on a team.  Good size for a SF. He's more polished then some of the younger guys in the draft, but as is always the case there, the ceiling may not be as high.  Great potential pick for a playoff team though.

23. Utah Jazz (from Warriors) – Zach LaVine, SG, UCLA, Freshmen

One of the best athletes in the draft, LaVine played mostly 2-guard last year, but was a point in high school.  Shot decent from 3 (37.5%)  Utah would be happy to see LaVine fall down to #23.  He and Trey Burke would be an interesting young backcourt.  

24. Charlotte Hornets (from Trail Blazers) – Kyle Anderson, SF, UCLA, Sophomore

I've been all over the place with Anderson (LaVine's teammate last season.)  He's 6'8.5 with a wingspan over 7'2.  He does a lot of things well, put up roughly 15 points, 9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block a game while shooting 48.3% from 3 (took less than 2 per game).  Another one of these guys who could be a terror on defense.  Could go as high as the lottery or as low as mid-20s.  Hornets might get a gem down here. 

25. Houston Rockets – Spencer Dimwiddie, G, Colorado, Junior

Played only 17 games last year because of a torn ACL.  I see him as a 2-guard, he believes he can play the point (what guard doesn't?).  Shoots real well, floor, 3, line, you name it.  Solid passer as well.  I like his chances in the league, especially if he joins a playoff team and turns into their second guard off the bench at first before expanding his role.  

26. Miami Heat – Glenn Robinson III, SF, Michigan, Sophomore

Not a huge fan of Robinson.  Let's be honest, you're not going to like 60 guys in every draft, you're not going to like 30 guys in every draft.  This one does have more than most, but late 1st you have your work cut out for you to find a guy to crack the rotation.  A young, athletic player at any position makes sense for the Miami Heat... unless LeBron opts out, then it's just panic in the streets.  

27. Phoenix Suns (from Pacers) – Jerami Grant, F, Syracuse, Sophomore

Syracuse had a brutal run of pros post Carmelo Anthony (Johnny Flynn, Donta Greene, Wesley Johnson, Fab Melo, etc, etc.) until Michael Carter-Williams who was Rookie of the Year (in a horrible class, but whatever).  Ennis and Grant I feel are more like the Flynns and Greenes than Melos and MCWs.   The son of former Bullet Harvey Grant and nephew of Horace, does not shoot from the outside and is more of a SF than PF certainly in the NBA... I kind of want to move him to 2nd round... it's too late, I've committed.  

28. Los Angeles Clippers – Jarnell Stokes, PF, Tennessee, Junior

Julius Randle - Lite of the SEC.  Good for 15 points and 10 rebounds a game last year at Tennessee.  Like Randle he doesn't have great height (just 6'8) but he's 260+ and has a wingspan over 7'1.  I could see Stokes carving out a career as a banger.  Undersized, strong rebounder off the bench.  20 years old despite being a junior also a positive.  

29. Oklahoma City Thunder – Shabazz Napier, PG, UConn, Senior 

Roxbury's own will be a 1st round pick, but he may have to wait a little while to hear his name called.  I don't see him as a future starter.  Leader of a bench mob?  Absolutely.  If he is running your second unit and playing 24+ minutes a night, I think it works.  I'll be rooting for the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player to succeed, but I'm not as high on him as some, especially in the Boston area.

30. San Antonio Spurs – C.J. Wilcox, SG, Washington, Senior

Maybe the best shooter in the draft.  Would be a nice pick up for a playoff team looking for a player that can stretch the floor.  Wilcox has good size for a 2 (6'5, 6'10 wing).  Shot over 39% from 3, making nearly 3 per game at Washington.  Also shot 87+% at the free throw line.  Stick him out there with Parker and Duncan and watch him rain 3's.  (I thought Reggie Bullock would be able to do this last year... and, he did not.)

ROUND 2:

31. Milwaukee Bucks – Thanasis Antetokounmpo, SF, D-League
32. Philadelphia 76ers – Mitch McGary, C, Michigan
33. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Magic) – Patric Young, PF, Florida
34. Dallas Mavericks (from Celtics) – DeAndre Kane, PG, Iowa State
35. Utah Jazz – Cleanthony Early, F, Wichita State
36. Milwaukee Bucks (from Lakers) – Johnny O’Bryant III, PF, LSU
37. Toronto Raptors (from Kings) – Cameron Bairstow, PF, New Mexico
38. Detroit Pistons – Jordan Clarkson, G, Missouri
39. Philadelphia 76ers (from Cavs) – Clint Capela, PF, Switzerland
40. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Pelicans) – Markel Brown, SG, Oklahoma State
41. Denver Nuggets – Walter Tavares, C, Cape Verde
42. Houston Rockets (from Knicks) – Dwight Powell, PF, Stanford
43. Atlanta Hawks – Jabari Brown, G, Missouri
44. Minnesota Timberwolves – Sean Kilpatrick, PG, Cincinnati
45. Charlotte Hornets  - Cory Jefferson, F, Baylor
46. Washington Wizards – Jordan Adams, G, UCLA
47. Philadelphia 76ers (from Nets) – Lamar Patterson, SG, Pittsburgh
48. Milwaukee Bucks (from Raptors) – DeAndre Daniels, F, UConn
49. Chicago Bulls – James Michael McAdoo, F, North Carolina
50. Phoenix Suns – Russ Smith, PG, Louisville
51. Dallas Mavericks – Jahii Carson, PG, Arizona State
52. Philadelphia 76ers (from Grizzlies) – Khem Birch, PF, UNLV
53. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Warriors) – Roscoe Smith, F, UNLV
54. Miami Heat – Alex Kirk, C, New Mexico
55. Philadelphia 76ers (from Rockets) – Jordan McRae, SG, Tennessee
56. Denver Nuggets (from Trail Blazers) – Semaj Christon, PG, Xavier
57. Indiana Pacers – Bryce Cotton, PG, Providence
58. San Antonio Spurs (from Clippers) – Roy Devyn Marble, SF, Iowa
59. Toronto Raptors (from Thunder) – Deonte Burton, G, Nevada
60. San Antonio Spurs – Nick Johnson, G, Arizona

NBA Draft Green Room Invites

• Andrew Wiggins, Kansas
• Jabari Parker, Duke
• Joel Embiid, Kansas (will not attend)
• Dante Exum, Australia 
• Noah Vonleh, Indiana
• Aaron Gordon, Arizona
• Julius Randle, Kentucky
• Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State
• Doug McDermott, Creighton
• Dario Saric, Croatia
• T.J. Warren, North Carolina State
• Gary Harris, Michigan State
• Elfrid Payton, Louisiana-Lafayette
• Nik Stauskas, Michigan
• James Young, Kentucky
• Zach LaVine, UCLA
• Jusuf Nurkic, Bosnia
• Adreian Payne, Michigan State
• Rodney Hood, Duke
• Tyler Ennis, Syracuse
• Shabazz Napier, UConn

21 total.  20 expected to be in attendance on Thursday, June 26

Celtics Friday Workouts

With the NBA Draft less than 2 weeks away the Celtics have been hosting a number of potential draft picks.  Usually it's been one or two studs surrounded by some also-rans. Not today.  7 likely 1st rounders are in the house with a few of these guys legitimate options at #6.  6 of the 7 players in could go in the lottery.  You'll see how the groups are broken up with note on each player below. 

Group 1 (One Man Gang)

JULIUS RANDLE, PF, KENTUCKY 

The big news came down yesterday saying Randle will likely need foot surgery after the draft and he'd be out probably 2 months, missing rookie camp. Randle then called out Woj on twitter, I (everyone) still believes Woj. But how much will this hurt his stock?

The 6'9 freshmen with a 7 foot wing span was an absolute double-double machine.  Shades of Zach Randolph (on the court!) in his game. I'd pass on him at 6 but there's no way he should slip out of the Top 10. The C's will get all the medical info on him and then make their decision based on that. 

Group 2 (Classic 6 Pack)

JORDAN CLARKSON, G, MISSOURI

Like so many recent players and many in this draft class, Clarkson is a guard. Shooting guard? Probably. Point guard? Maybe (especially if it will help his draft stock).  The 22 year old junior was a productive scorer in the SEC but didn't shoot it well from 3 (under 30%).  My guess is he will be a late 1st round pick. 

GARY HARRIS, SG, MICHIGAN STATE

The Spartan sophomore might be the best shooting guard in the class.  Of course there has been some talk that he can play point too... He can make it as a 2 despite being just 6'4.  Bradley Beal is doing just fine, and although Harris doesn't shoot like Beal, he does a lot of everything and should be a productive NBA player.  My guess is he goes somewhere between the two Celtics picks. 

ZACH LAVINE, G, UCLA

Another "guard" who played mostly 2 in his only year at UCLA, but has a point guard background. He was one of the best athletes at last months Draft Combine. Great vertical, size, quickness, etc.  he even shot a better % from 3 (37.5) than Harris and Clarkson, although not nearly as productive at the offensive end. The 19 year old is an upside pick.  No use at 6 but very intriguing at 17. 

ELFRID PAYTON, PG, LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE 

Love this guy. The Sun Belt is not great competition obviously compared to the power conference everyone else in this group attended, but Payton played on the Under-19 Team USA team a year ago and got the chance to play with and against good competition where he did very well.  He can score but he can't shoot.  Comparable to Rajon Rondo although he is 3 inches taller.  Could become a legit pass first point guard while he develops his shot. He's a junior but only 20 years old. He's been moving up Mock Drafts and it wouldn't be a stretch to take him at 17. Payton has done well against other top players on the workout tour and he has another chance in Waltham. 

MARCUS SMART, PG, OKLAHOMA STATE

Another one of my favorite players in the draft. By comparison, he is 1 inch shorter than Elfrid Payton, but he is 40 pounds heavier. 40 pounds!  6'3, 225.  Beast.  He won't get pushed around at the next level.  He could post opposing points a la Billups, Kidd, Parker.  Needs to work on his shot, a clear weakness. He returned to school for his sophomore year to work on his point guard skills and his shooting, and overall it was a disappointing year.  He pushed that racist fan and that became a thing, but that seems behind him (and everyone else). I'd consider him at 6 depending how the Top 5 went.  He won't fall out of Top 8. 

NIK STAUSKAS, SG, MICHIGAN 

One of the best shooters in the draft.  I was really down on him during the year (I watched one of his worst games all year), but after watching more of him, he's a legit shooter.  He's got good enough size to be a SG that doesn't have explosive speed.  He's got an underrated handle and gets his shot of extremely quick. I'm not sure how good of a pro he will be but I also thought J.J. Redick would be terrible, so who knows?  I don't want him at 6 and don't think he'll drop to 17. 

Can't wait for June 26th.  I'll have a full Mock Draft up sometime next week. 

One Word On Today's Celtics Workouts

Kyle Anderson, UCLA - Like

DeAndre Daniels, UConn - Gross

Cleanthony Early, Wichita State - Pass

P.J. Hairston, UNC/ D-League - Intriguing 

K.J. McDaniels, Clemson - Great

T.J. Warren, NC State - Draft

If The Celtics Use The #17 Pick

I wrote about who I'd like the Celtics to take at #6.  It was a group of PFs as well as Marcus Smart.  If they keep the pick at 17 there appears to be a group of solid wing players available. Here are my four favorite that might be there.

JAMES YOUNG, SG/SF, KENTUCKY, FRESHMEN

Young has decent size for a wing at 6'6.  He, like all of the Wildcats, played real well at the end of the year and deep into the NCAA Tournament.  He's a great shooter, although his season numbers from 3 (35%) didn't back it up.  His shot looks smooth as hell though and I expect him to be even better in the NBA (like Bradley Beal).  

T.J. WARREN, SF, NORTH CAROLINA STATE, SOPHOMORE 

Best scorer in the ACC (25 ppg) last season.  Everyone projects Jabari Parker as the best scorer from this class, and that's fair, but Warren is not far off.  Not a great 3 point shooter but he's 6'8 and scores in a variety of ways, especially in the paint. Master of the floater.  If he develops an outside shot he could be scary good.  Played prep school ball at Brewster Academy in NH where he was teammates with Xavier PG Semaj Christon. (Good Pierre McGuire fact right there).

RODNEY HOOD, SF, DUKE, SOPHOMORE

I never like Duke players and this year I love two.  Hood is my pick for a player in this class to most likely compete in a 3-point Contest and a Dunk Contest.  Great shooter (42% from 3), size to play 2 and 3 (6'8.5, but not a great wingspan at 6'8.5).  He is also very athletic, so not just a shooter.  Keep an eye on him at the workouts.  Many project him in the 20s, that would surprise me. 

K.J. MCDANIELS, SG, CLEMSON, JUNIOR

Like Noah Vonleh, great player whose team missed the NCAA Tournament.  Certainly not all his fault, but with 68 teams in the dance you'd like to see your star lead you there regardless of surrounding cast.  But this guy is legit.  6'6 with a freakish wingspan of 6'11.25.  Put up 17 points, 7 rebounds and nearly 3 blocks a game.  Dwyane Wade perhaps?  Hopefully more that than Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. 

I like all these guys.  If the Celtics don't make a move for Kevin Love and use their two picks, I'd be thrilled with 2 of the 8 players I mentioned.  It'd be a rebuild but with a bright future. 

Draft Countdown at the top right of the page.  Less than a month!

2014 NBA Draft Order

1. Cleveland Cavaliers
2. Milwaukee Bucks
3. Philadelphia 76ers
4. Orlando Magic
5. Utah Jazz
6. BOSTON CELTICS 
7. Los Angeles Lakers
8. Sacramento Kings
9. Charlotte Hornets (from Pistons)
10. Philadelphia 76ers (from Pelicans)
11. Denver Nuggets
12. Orlando Magic (from Knicks)
13. Minnesota Timberwolves
14. Phoenix Suns

15. Atlanta Hawks
16. Chicago Bulls (from Hornets)
17. BOSTON CELTICS (from Nets)
18. Phoenix Suns (from Wizards)
19. Chicago Bulls
20. Toronto Raptors
21. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Mavericks)
22. Memphis Grizzlies
23. Utah Jazz (from Warriors)
24. Charlotte Hornets (from Trail Blazers)
25. Houston Rockets
26. Miami Heat
27. Phoenix Suns (from Pacers)
28. Los Angeles Clippers
29. Oklahoma City Thunder
30. San Antonio Spurs

Celtics Chances In NBA Draft Lottery

They are much better than Lloyd's chances with Mary.

 


A reminder of the % per picks...

1st = 10.3%
2nd = 11.1%
3rd = 12%
4th = 0%
5th = 24.6%
6th = 34.5%
7th = 7%
8th = 0.4%

Teams With No Picks Going Into 2014 Draft

Brooklyn Nets

Golden State Warriors

New York Knicks

Portland Trail Blazers

Is it ironic that the NBA Draft is in New York and the Knicks & Nets don't own a single pick?

Players Celtics Interviewed at Combine

Kyle Anderson, UCLA
Markel Brown, Oklahoma State
Dante Exum, Australia
Aaron Gordon, Arizona
P.J. Hairston, D-League/UNC
Gary Harris, Michigan State
Rodney Hood, Duke
Zach LaVine, UCLA
Doug McDermott, Creighton
Shabazz Napier, UConn
Julius Randle, Kentucky
Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State
Nik Stauskas, Michigan
Noah Vonleh, Indiana
T.J. Warren, N.C. State

Solid list. You can tell this is a team with a potential high lottery pick as well as #17. 

NBA Draft Combine Underway

Here is the list of players at the NBA Draft combine in Chicago.  Not all are participating in on court drills, in fact most aren't.  I'll have more on tomorrow and next week as we approach May 20th and the Draft Lottery....

Jordan Adams, UCLA, G

Kyle Anderson, UCLA, SF

Thanansis Antelokounmpo, D-League, SF

Isiah Austin, Baylor, C

Jordan Bachynski, Arizona State, C

Cameron Bairstow, New Mexico, PF

Khem Birch, UNLV, C

Alec Brown, Wisconsin Green Bay, C

Jabari Brown, Missouri, G

Markel Brown, Oklahoma State, SG

Deonte Burton, Nevada, PG

Jahii Carson, Arizaon State, PG

Semaj Chrsiton, Xavier, PG

Jordan Clarkson, Missouri, PG

Aaron Craft, Ohio State, PG

DeAndre Daniels, UConn, SF

Spencer Dinwiddie, Colorado, G

Cleanthony Early, Wichita State, PF

Melvin Ejim, Iowa State, SF

Tyler Ennis, Syracuse, PG

Dante Exum, Australia, PG

C.J. Fair, Syracuse, senior, F

Aaron Gordon, Arizona, freshmen, PF

Jerami Grant, Syracuse, sophomore, SF

P.J. Hairston, D-Legaue/ UNC, SG

Gary Harris, Michigan State, sophomore, SG

Joe Harris, Virginia, F

Rodney Hood, Duke, sophomore, SF

Cory Jefferson, Baylor, senior, PF

Nick Johnson, Arizona, junior, PG

DeAndre Kane, Iowa State, senior, PG

Sean Kilpatrick, Cincinnati, senior, PG

Alex Kirk, New Mexico, C

Zach LaVine, UCLA, freshmen, SG

Devyn Marble, Iowa, G/SF

James Michael McAdoo, North Carolina, PF

K.J. McDaniels, Clemson, SF

Doug McDermott, Creighton, F

Mitch McGary, Michigan, sophomore, C NOT THERE

Jordan McRae, Tennessee, SG

Shabazz Napier, UConn, PG

Johnny O’Bryant III, LSU, PF

Lamar Patterson, Pittsburgh, SF

Adreian Payne, Michigan State, senior, PF

Elfrid Payton, Louisiana-Lafayette, junior, PG

Dwight Powell, Stanford, PF

Julius Randle, Kentucky, freshmen, PF

Glenn Robinson III, Michigan, sophomore, F

LaQuinton Ross, Ohio State, SF

Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State, sophomore, PG

Russ Smith, Louisville, senior, PG

Nik Stauskas, Michigan sophomore, SG

Jarnell Stokes, Tennessee, PF

Xavier Thames, San Diego State, PG

Noah Vonleh, Indiana, freshmen, PF

T.J. Warren, NC State, sophomore, SF

Kendall Williams, New Mexico, PG

C.J. Wilcox, Washington, senior, SG

James Young, Kentucky, freshmen, SF

Patric Young, Florida, senior, PF

Not Attending

Andrew Wiggins, Kansas, freshmen, SF

Jabari Parker, Duke, freshmen, SF

Joel Embiid, Kansas, freshmen, C
Dario Saric, Croatia, F

The Rich Keefe Project's Top 50 Big Board

1. Jabari Parker, Duke, SF, freshmen
2. Andrew Wiggins, Kansas, SF, freshmen
3. Joel Embiid, Kansas, C, freshmen
4. Julius Randle, Kentucky, PF, freshmen
5. Dante Exum, Australia, PG, international/ 18 years old
6. Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State, PG, sophomore
7. Aaron Gordon, Arizona, PF, freshmen
8. Noah Vonleh, Indiana, PF, freshmen
9. Gary Harris, Michigan State, SG, sophomore
10. T.J. Warren, North Carolina State, SF, sophomore
11. Kyle Anderson, UCLA, SF, sophomore
12. James Young, Kentucky, SF, freshmen
13. Dario Saric, Croatia, F, international/ 20 years old
14. Rodney Hood, Duke, SF, sophomore
15. Doug McDermott, Creighton, F, senior
16. Andrew Harrison, Kentucky, PG, freshmen
17. Adriean Payne, Michigan State, PF, senior
18. Tyler Ennis, Syracuse, PG, freshmen
19. P.J. Hairston, UNC/D-League, SG, junior
20. Jerami Grant, Syracuse, PF, sophomore
21. Aaron Harrison, Kentucky, SG, freshmen
22. K.J. McDaniels, Clemson, SF, junior
23. Shabazz Napier, UConn, PG, senior
24. Nik Stauskas, Michigan, SG, sophomore
25. Elfrid Payton, U. Louisiana-Lafayette, PG, junior
26. Zach LaVine, UCLA, SG, freshmen
27. Glenn Robison III, Michigan, SF, sophomore
28. Semaj Christon, Xavier, PG, sophomore
29. Melvin Ejim, Iowa State, SF, senior
30. Jarnell Stokes, Tennessee, PF, junior
31. Alex Poythress, Kentucky, F, sophomore
32. Cory Jefferson, Baylor, PF, senior
33. Cleanthony Early, Wichita State, F, senior
34. DeAndre Kane, Iowa State, PG, senior
35. Mitch McGary, Michigan, C, sophomore
36. Isaiah Austin, Baylor, C, sophomore
37. Russ Smith, Louisville, PG, senior
38. Sean Kilpatrick, Cincinnati, SG, senior
39. Patric Young, Florida, PF, senior
40. Spencer Dinwiddie, Colorado, SG, junior
41. Jahii Carson, Arizona State, PG, sophomore
42. Deonte Burton, Nevada, PG, senior
43. C.J. Fair, Syracuse, F, senior
44. C.J. Wilcox, Washington, SG, senior
45. Nick Johnson, Arizona, SG, junior 
46. Jordan Clarkson, Missouri, G, junior
47. Roy Devyn Marble, Iowa, SG, senior
48. Keith Appling, Michigan State, PG, senior
49. Bryce Cotton, Providence, G, senior
50. Cameron Bairstow, New Mexico, PF, senior

Note: I only ranked 2 international players (Exum/ Saric).  These are the only 2 I feel comfortable ranking, based off of YouTube clips and reading scouting reports and what not.  Others are probably deserving, but it'd be complete guess work and hearsay.