Point guard Kyrie Irving will be out the Celtics’ lineup for up to six weeks.
The All-Star and former NBA champion underwent a minor knee procedure on Saturday. The surgery was to remove a tension wire in Irving’s patella, placed there after his kneecap was repaired in 2015.
Irving has already missed the Celtics’ last five games due to knee discomfort. The rest didn’t improve his situation, leading to an expedited surgery timeline. The surgery was originally going to be scheduled for after the season.
With Irving officially sidelined, Boston’s roster keeps getting slimmer and slimmer. And with the playoffs on the horizon, the Celtics’ ability to field a team that can compete for the NBA Finals has been officially called into question.
Here is a look at the Celtics’ immediate future, regarding injuries, schedules and expectations.
Injury report
Irving is slated to be out of commission for anywhere from three to six weeks. The soonest he can return is April 14, the day the playoffs begin. If his return is pushed to six weeks, he could possibly not return until the Conference Semifinals.
Boston will be missing 24.4 points, 5.1 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game without Kyrie. Not to mention serviceable defense and some of the very best ball-handling and iso scoring skills in the league.
Fellow point guard Marcus Smart is also out after undergoing thumb surgery. He has been quoted as saying that he is eyeing a return sometime in May. The bulk of the point guard duties will fall on Terry Rozier and Shane Larkin in their absences.
Daniel Theis grabs a rebound against John Collins. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Rookie Daniel Theis is out for the remainder of the season after tearing his meniscus on March 11th. He has already undergone surgery, and is expected to return to the Celtics next season.
Jaylen Brown is aiming to return to the lineup on Sunday night, after being in the NBA’s concussion protocol since March 8th. The Celtics have been extremely careful regarding Brown’s injury, and his potential return will be a game-time decisions.
Of course, Gordon Hayward is still out after suffering a broken leg in the first game of the season. Coach Brad Stevens has adamantly stated that Hayward will not return, but the reports are not uniform. Hayward himself has not ruled out playing again this season, saying, “the hope is still there.”
Hardship Exemption
On March 23rd, it was reported that the Celtics are filing for a Hardship Exemption from the NBA. It is defined as follows by SB Nation:
“The Hardship Exemption is a tool that allows NBA teams that are hit hard by injuries to continue to field a deep enough roster to both practice and play games. In order to qualify, teams must have at least four players out for at least three games to petition. As soon as one of the injured players is ready to return, the team must drop back into compliance with standard roster size.” (Keith P. Smith, SB Nation)
If granted, this could be potentially huge for the Celtics’ playoff seeding hopes. It would allow them to sign players that fit Brad Stevens’ system in an effort to win the necessary games to secure home court advantage.
However, dropping that player could be potentially problematic, especially considering some returning players present question marks moving forward. Utilizing previously dropped players, though, would give a chance for that individual to showcase his skills as a form of tryout, which would be useful for all parties.
Stevens has been quoted as saying that Boston would target a perimeter player, if the exemption is granted. With a big chunk of their outside and mid-range shooting on the bench, this seems like the best fit.
Remaining schedule
The Celtics only have 10 games remaining on the season. Five are against lottery teams, four are against playoff contenders, and one comes against a potential playoff team (Utah Jazz).
Their schedule is obviously favorable. The lottery teams will be all but trying to drop these games against Boston. It is not an exaggeration to say that Boston’s bench alone could beat them.
Of their remaining five games against playoff teams, though, four are on the road. Two of those are against the Eastern Conference-leading Toronto Raptors (one at home, one on the road). These games are huge trouble for the second place Celtics.
DeRozan dribbles against Celtics’ Jaylen Brown. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
The third place Cleveland Cavaliers are winners of four in a row, and their schedule is equally favorable. If the Cavs can stay hot and the Celtics start dropping games, they could easily be overtaken for the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
The good news is that even if they dropped all 10 games, they would still be a playoff team, albeit with a significant disadvantage. How far the Celtics go in the playoffs, however, is completely dependent upon when their injured stars can return and contribute at a high level.
Expectations should be leveled going forward. It would be a win for the team if they can go 5-5 in their last 10 games, which would probably keep them in second place. There is not a huge difference between the two and three seed in the NBA. If Boston wants a spot in the Conference Finals, though, they’ll need every home court advantage they can get.
Featured image by Gary A. Vasquez/USA Today Sports
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Before we dive in to my prospect profile on Petty_Andretti, I want to make clear my evaluation process and that these are my thoughts independent of the in-game rating system. I start by watching the first game of every prospect. I evaluate their performance on every offensive and defensive possession. Meaning I watch a possession, pause and take notes, watch a possession, pause and take notes, and repeat until the game’s completion. Then, I watch their other two games to see growth, regression and consistency. The overall grade provided is purely based on my evaluation, and how that player performed in the three games I watched.
Petty_Andretti’s Profile
Petty_Andretti (PA) has chosen to play center, with the slashing stretch five archetype. His choice is interesting. PA has chosen to naturally be an offensive player without any natural defensive abilities. Surprisingly, you’d never know by watching him play defense and rebound.
Overall, I was impressed with the group of centers I watched this weekend. It will no doubt be a highly competitive group. As a side note, I would strongly advise any fringe centers to switch to power forward given the position scarcity and archetypes available to that position.
Defense Evaluation
I was thoroughly impressed with PA’s performance. After the first few possessions, you’ll notice that the point guard PA is playing with is a huge defensive liability. Sadly, this meant that PA had to spend the majority of the game guarding two positions, given the undisciplined defense of their point guard.
PA adjusts beautifully and consistently plays an aggressive hedge defense to compensate for their Point Guard. Below I’ve included a few plays that stood out to me, and a short breakdown of each.
It might look like he’s playing lazy defense, but the high screen is meant to draw him up and out of the paint. PA doesn’t bite. He’s anticipating the point guard getting beat on the screen, which happened, and would rather force the opposing center to attempt a lower percentage shot and stop the dribble penetration.
Here’s a great example of how to play the oppositions pick and roll. PA and his teammate wait for the opponent to initiate. Instead of committing and making a mistake, they slow play, communicate, and have a great switch. While the result is not good, his verbal communication and patience creates a great example of how to play the pick and roll. He has this same patience throughout the game and as a result, forces turnovers and ill advised shots.
While PA demonstrated some great defensive qualities and awareness, it wasn’t all great. Multiple times in my evaluation, I had to give him a minus because of unnecessary block attempts. He wasn’t spamming block. But, his ill advised block attempts left him out of position for key rebounds and help defense. This continued for most of the game and into overtime.
In the first half, PA was also not fully committing to switches. He wanted to make sure he was protecting the rim and not hanging his teammate out to dry. Thankfully, he was able to verbally communicate with his teammates and establish when and how to do a fully committed switch.
Offense Evaluation
The center position has garnered a lot of conversation after the first weekend. This is an unofficial stat, but I believe just over 4,000 Centers are averaging around 30 points and 20 rebounds per game. That tells me it isn’t hard to accumulate stats at that position, so they become increasingly less valuable. It’s about the process, not the result.
PA demonstrated great spacing in his games. He wasn’t simply a static player camping out in the paint. He would set off-ball screens, run high pick and roll and know when to draw his man out to open up the lane for a teammate. His ability to set effective screens really opened up the offense in game one. Below is an example on how to truly set an effective screen instead of obviously getting set, and having the point guard react late.
This is something every player can immediately integrate into their game. Don’t be lazy and obvious about setting screens. PA makes this screen look like he’s simply getting to his spot or cutting across the court. By taking this approach, he doesn’t tip off the defense and their offense gets an easy two points. Now let’s look at how this evolved into a pick and roll/pick and pop.
While this screen wasn’t as deceptive as the previous one, it’s still effective. Once the point guard clears, he holds his ground. This was the right decision because he doesn’t need to unnecessarily clog the paint. The point guard makes a good read to get the ball back to PA, and without hesitation, he drives inside.
While the numbers aren’t as eye-popping as some of the screenshots you’ve seen on Twitter, PA’s offensive game is sound and effective. However, there are things I’d like to see him do less. He’s obviously a good screen setter. But, I don’t like how PA comes up to the three point line to initiate the play. By setting the screen so high, he takes himself out of contention to grab a rebound. He also tries to run similar offensive sets later in the game even when the defense was prepared for them. It’s minor, but it led to wasted possessions and turnovers later in the game.As a side note, I would also like to see PA be more aggressive with scoring opportunities, specifically, back-to-the-basket post moves.
communication and attitude Evaluation
PA was strong in both of these categories. His communication on offense defense was good. I’m not saying good is average, but to be great, the communication needed to be just a bit more detailed. Meaning, instead of just saying “watch it, watch it” to call out a screen, be more specific. “Hey PG on your left I got switch”, would be an excellent example of communication. PA would routinely call out screens, switches and potential offensive sets. It was great to see such leadership and initiative from the center position.
I’m a huge fan of his attitude. PA is never too high, never too low. If he finds out a teammate doesn’t have a mic, he doesn’t complain and start making excuses. He simply adjusts his strategy, and plays his game. PA is encouraging to all of his teammates no matter the situation, and takes ownership of his mistakes. And the best part it, this is completely authentic. PA is not “putting on” for the scouts. He’s truly a calm, smart and passionate teammate.
Overall Grade
I want to preface this by saying I’m an extremely tough grader. So, my first grade I’m giving to Petty_Andretti is a “B”. There are a few things PA can work on to easily earn an “A” grade. Chief among them would be to eliminate unnecessary block attempts, stay away from setting so many screens at the three point line and develop a better back-to-the-basket offensive game. With all the incredible stat lines being put up by Centers, PA will have to raise his game offensively to truly be among the best. I am incredibly excited to see how Petty_Andretti develops throughout the combine.
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Just when you thought the NBA offseason was done, Kyrie Irving shocked the basketball world. As you might have heard, this past Friday, Irving requested a trade from the Cavs, in hopes to find a bigger role. Apparently, Irving would like to play in a situation where he is more of the guy, and not just LeBron James’ sidekick.
Kyrie is tired of playing Robin to LeBron James’ Batman, and has voiced that Minnesota, New York, Miami or San Antonio would be his preferred destinations.
So why does leaving a team coming off three straight Finals appearances make sense? Well, when you play with LeBron, and are on pace to be one of the best scoring point guards this game has ever seen, leaving is actually the most intelligent option.
HOW LEBRON PLAYED A ROLE IN KYRIE’S DECISION
Of course, everyone is so quick to say that LeBron is a problem everywhere he goes, and that he is the reason for Kyrie wanting out. If going to seven straight Finals is an issue, then please sign me up.
The relationship between James and Irving is not the problem (cavaliersnation.com)
LeBron’s past is what influenced Kyrie to take his talents elsewhere, not his relationship with James. James set a precedent back in 2010 when he originally left the Cavs to play for the Miami Heat. After four straight Finals appearances, he then showed again just how powerful the best players in the world can be by going back home to Cleveland.
These past few years, Kyrie has realized a few things. Number one, the Cavs didn’t get any better and showed no signs of doing anything to defeat the Warriors. Number two, the Cavs ownership has built the team under “win now” circumstances, which has destroyed the Cavaliers future. Instead of holding onto Andrew Wiggins, they demanded they get Kevin Love. After winning the championship, the Cavs gave horrible contracts to Tristan Thompson and JR Smith.
Quite frankly, LeBron has already delivered on his promise, which was to bring a championship to Cleveland. James continues to pride himself on never losing leverage, which is why he is yet to commit long term to the Cavaliers. This is not about the relationship between LeBron and Kyrie, but instead, about players looking ahead and realizing what the future will reveal.
How Cleveland’s antics forced Kyrie into this situation
Barring injury, the Warriors will again be NBA champions. You really think a 33-year-old James will want stick around in Cleveland after back-to-back Finals losses? Especially in a city that no free agent wants to even take a look at? Say what you want, but there is absolutely no chance LeBron stays with a team of veterans, and an ownership who refused to make moves to help defeat Golden State. In my mind, James will end up with the Lakers or Sixers, two young talented teams who James can lead into the playoffs.
Knowing LeBron’s past decisions and the fact that Cleveland is not a draw for top free agents, why in the world would Kyrie want to continue to play for the Cavs? If LeBron leaves, he would be stuck with a team of veterans with bad contracts.
Some people might wonder why Irving wouldn’t just play this season out and get one more swing at the Warriors. Irving, who has two seasons left until he can opt out of his deal, realizes how hard it is to get traded when you only have one season left on your contract. Just ask Paul George.
Teams either need a long term commitment, or pray that they can sell the player on their future plans. With two years left, Irving is already drawing interest from over a dozen teams. Speaking of George, the Cavaliers’ talks with him and Jimmy Butler are what most likely sparked Irving’s decision to want to play elsewhere.
The final straw
The final straw for Kyrie was when he found out that he was mentioned in trade talks for Jimmy Butler and Paul George. Why would he want to stay with a franchise that tried to trade him this summer? Do the Cavs actually think either of those players gives them a better chance than Kyrie, who has outplayed Steph over the past two Finals?
All this madness explains exactly why Kyrie Irving would want out of Cleveland. The team didn’t get any better, LeBron will most likely leave after this year and they even tried to trade him. Yes, the same 25-year-old who made one of the biggest shots in NBA Finals history.
Now that the Kyrie era in Cleveland appears over, let’s take a look at just how good this kid is.
THE BEST SCORING POINT GUARD OF ALL TIME?
Possibly the greatest NBA Finals shot (NBA.com)
Only three guards, before their age 25 season have scored more than Irving: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Stephon Marbury, who Irving has already passed in win shares. Yes, Kyrie ranks fourth all time in scoring, for guards, before their age 25 season. He is on pace to be the best scoring point guard ever, and is extremely efficient.
For three out of his first five seasons, Irving averaged at least 21 points/5 assists/3 rebounds on 45 percent shooting or better. The only point guards with more seasons of those numbers are Jerry West, Steph Curry and Magic Johnson.
It’s scary because we probably haven’t even seen the best version of this guy.
His postseason numbers are what really sets him apart. At only 25, Kyrie already has two postseasons of averaging at least 25 points /4 assists on 46 percent shooting from the field, and 87 percent from the line. No other point guard has done this more than once, and the only other player to accomplish this more than Irving was Larry Bird, who did it four times during his Hall of Fame career.
Is his playoff success just during the early rounds? Of course not. While only playing in two Finals, Irving already has three games with at least 30 points/3 assists /3 rebounds on 55 percent shooting or better, which is most ever by a point guard.
PLAYERS WITH NBA FINALS GAMES WITH AT LEAST 30/3/3 ON 55% SHOOTING OR BETTER
PLAYER
# OF GAMES
MICHAEL JORDAN
7
SHAQUILLE O’NEIL
7
LEBRON JAMES
5
KEVIN DURANT
4
DWAYNE WADE
4
KYRIE IRVING
3
Kyrie is also the only player in NBA Finals history to score at least 40 points on 70 percent shooting or better.
Like his decision or not, Kyrie Irving is going to go down as the best scoring point guard of all time. With already one ring on his hand, Irving has put himself in the conversation for best point guard ever. While eclipsing Magic will be hard, Irving could easily solidify himself as number two.
Where will Irving end up? (weartesters.com)
When all is set and done, Irving, barring injury, could easily put up more points than any other true point guard. With one championship already, he will go down ahead of Steve Nash and John Stockton, two players who were unable to win a title.
All he is chasing is Isiah Thomas, not the one who is the worst defender in the league, but the Pistons’ star who won two titles, and Steph Curry, who Irving can dominate.
If Irving can win at least one MVP, and get back to being a champion, watch out.
Maybe the Cavaliers should have thought about how good he is, rather than shopping him around for players who wouldn’t help get them by Golden State. Maybe they should have focused more on the future, but then again, there is a reason why the 2016-17 NBA championship was their first in franchise history.
Featured image by gospelherald.com
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The Golden State Warriors are the 2017 NBA champions. Now that the Finals are over, the entire basketball community will be focusing on the upcoming NBA Draft on June 22. This is a prime opportunity for teams to either deepen their roster or build playoff caliber teams. Here is Hagan’s Haus 2017 NBA Mock Draft V 4.0.
1: Boston Celtics: Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington
(Photo Credit: Elaine Thompson/AP)
The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are working on a trade so that the 76ers can select Markelle Fultz. Even if the trade doesn’t get finalized Fultz will be the number one overall pick in this draft.
2: Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA
Los Angeles is not going to pass on a player who will make those around him better and has the star power that Lonzo Ball has. These rumors floating around about the Lakers falling out of love with Lonzo is all a smokescreen. The truth of the matter is that the first two picks have been decided and they are just trying to keep people interested and on their toes.
3: Philadelphia 76ers: Josh Jackson, SG/SF, Kansas
This pick is just like the first overall pick. It is likely going to be Boston drafting in the third position and they will take Josh Jackson. This is a sign that the Celtics may put all their faith in Isaiah Thomas as their point guard. Jackson can fit right into the culture they are building in Boston and he will help them get closer to compete for a championship.
4: Phoenix Suns: Jayson Tatum, SF, Duke
The Suns are just unlucky. Phoenix was supposed to have a top three pick but fell to fourth when the lottery took place. Now they are going to miss on Josh Jackson by one pick. Jayson Tatum is flying under the radar but will be a very good NBA player.
Tatum has a polished isolation game and can score from anywhere on the floor. Tatum will be a solid second option to Devin Booker.
5: Sacramento Kings: De’Aaron Fox, PG, Kentucky
(Photo Credit: http://www.zimbio.com)
Reports coming out of Sacramento say that the Kings are absolutely in love with De’Aaron Fox and are even willing to trade both the fifth and tenth pick to move up just one spot to get him.
Fox should be around at five and the Kings can draft their franchise point guard. Buddy Hield and De’Aaron Fox would be a promising backcourt that would help the Kings get closer to the playoffs.
6: Orlando Magic: Johnathan Issac, F, Florida St.
Orlando has been terrible ever since Dwight Howard left. Johnathan Issac has been recently compared to Kevin Durant, but he is not the scorer that Durant is. Issac will bring tons of athleticism to the Magic. He has proven he can play an all-around game but has been very inconsistent. If developed correctly, Issac can become one of the best two-way players in the NBA and an All-Star.
7: Minnesota Timberwolves: Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky
The Timberwolves are already loaded with young talent and in a perfect world, Tom Thibodeau would like to acquire more veterans in the locker room. Minnesota might be looking to make a trade in the future and will take the best available player which will be Malik Monk. Monk is a scoring machine capable of going off at any moment. He is the best scorer to come out of college since Kevin Durant and will easily average 20 points per game in the NBA.
8: New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG, France
New York has always been a city of immigrants. The Knicks are going to follow that mold it seems, as they already have Kristaps Porzingis and are in love with Frank Ntilikina.
Ntilikina has excellent size for a point guard. He is listed at 6-foot-5 and 190 pounds. Ntilikina is a pass-first point guard with a high I.Q. He has developed a mid-range game and excellent floater but is a really inconsistent shooter. Ntilikina also has great lateral quickness that makes him an elite defender.
9: Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith Jr., PG, NC State
(Photo Credit:http://bleacherreport.com)
Dennis Smith is arguably a top five player in this class. The Mavericks have a chance to find their franchise point guard who can help lead them back into the playoffs. Smith can score, pass and rebound with the best of them while in college. He also has the insane athleticism that allows him to posterize defenders.
10: Sacramento Kings: Lauri Markkanen, PF, Arizona
The Kings currently have two core pieces in Buddy Hield and Willie Cauley-Stein. If they take Fox earlier in the draft then it becomes an even better core. Lauri Markkanen could then take this team to even better heights.
Markkanen is a 7-foot stretch big who will be able to shoot the three in the NBA. He has all the intangibles to become a power forward like Dirk Nowitzki. He can stretch the floor or go inside. Markkanen would fit alongside Cauley-Stein because he can stretch the floor.
Getting Fox and Markkanen would make the Kings one of the best young teams in the NBA.
11: Charlotte Hornets: Donovan Mitchell, SG, Louisville
Donovan Mitchell was projected to be a late-first round pick around a month ago but has lately been flying up draft boards. Teams who have worked Mitchell out have been really impressed by the 6-foot-3 shooting guard. Mitchell is a shot creator and that is something the Hornets need. Charlotte could create a dangerous backcourt by pairing Mitchell with Kemba Walker.
12: Detroit Pistons: Harry Giles, PF, Duke
Detroit needs a big man alongside Andre Drummond. Picking Harry Giles would be a shock here, but could be a huge steal. Giles was considered the best player coming out of high school and was projected to be the No. 1 pick before he began having injury problems.
We have not seen what Giles is fully capable of, but his potential is through the roof. He is an athletic finisher who can be molded into a great defender.
Giles has had a lot of injuries but if he can get healthy he has the skill and potential to be the best player in this draft class.
13: Denver Nuggets: Zach Collins, PF/C, Gonzaga
(Photo Credit: http://www.zimbio.com)
Denver is really close to becoming a playoff team in the tough Western Conference. Their young guards just need more experience and will continue to develop.
Collins is a good rebounder and shot blocker. Pairing him up with Nikola Jokic could create one of the most dangerous frontcourts in the NBA. Collins needs to mold his offensive skills, but because Jokic is so skilled offensively, Collins’ defensive skills would create a perfect combination.
14: Miami Heat: T.J. Leaf, PF, UCLA
The Heat were amazing in the second half of this season. Hassan Whiteside is a franchise centerpiece at center. Their guard play has been tremendous, and Justise Winslow is really coming into his own. That leaves the power forward position as their biggest need.
T.J. Leaf has a high motor and can play both inside and out. Miami would get a player who could be molded into a star by Erik Spoelstra.
15: PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS: JOHN COLLINS, PF, WAKE FOREST
John Collins could be a valuable piece around Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum. Collins has a good offensive game that would help take pressure off their guards to score. He has a post-up game that most bigs don’t have. His impressive footwork allows him to beat even the best of defenders. If he develops his defense, he could become a top power forward in the NBA.
16: CHICAGO BULLS: JUSTIN PATTON, C, CREIGHTON
(Photo Credit: Chris Machian- The World Harold)
Building around Jimmy Butler seems to be the top priority for the Chicago Bulls. Robin Lopez is serviceable, but he is not a center that will help a team reach a title.
Justin Patton may be one. He is a 7-foot monster that averaged 12.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game as a freshman at Creighton.
NBA coaching could turn Patton into a dominant center in an era of outside shooting. There will be few players capable of defending him once he grows into his own. The Bulls would be lucky to get Patton.
17: Milwaukee Bucks: Bam Adebayo, C, Kentucky
The Milwaukee Bucks are building something special. Giannis Antetokounmpo is looking like a future MVP and Khris Middleton is a stud. Drafting Adebayo will give Milwaukee a presence inside to make the Bucks even more dangerous. The talent they already have and can acquire with Adebayo will allow the Bucks to get closer to the Eastern Conference finals.
18: Indiana Pacers: Luke Kennard, SG, Duke
Luke Kennard fits the new style of the NBA. He is a pure shooter and can be a valuable scorer in the NBA. Kennard isn’t going to be a guy who changes a franchise but as a sidekick to Paul George, he could thrive. George wants the Pacers to add talent so they can compete for a title adding Kennard would help go a long way in the Pacers effort to keep Paul George when he becomes a free agent.
19: Atlanta Hawks: Jarrett Allen, C, Texas
Dwight Howard is aging and no longer a top center in the NBA. The Hawks must prepare for the future and that could be in the form of Jarrett Allen. Allen is a beast on the boards and has the potential to become a solid post-up big man.
20: Portland Trailblazers: Justin Jackson, SF, North Carolina
Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum need help and Justin Jackson would fit perfectly with this team. Jackson would be the piece to help get the Blazers back into the playoffs.
He has great length and can stretch the floor. Jackson played great for most of the tournament. He had a subpar performance in the title game, but can still become a good NBA starter.
Jackson needs to add weight but is a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions. His mid-range jumper is well-polished.
21: Oklahoma City Thunder: OG Anunoby, SF, Indiana
(Photo Credit:http://hoosierstateofmind.com)
OG Anunoby will improve the Thunder on the defensive end of the floor immediately. In college, Anunoby was able to defend all five positions and that kind of versatility will make him a valuable player.
He also shot 36 percent from three in his career and will help take some pressure off of Russell Westbrook.
22: Brooklyn Nets: Ivan Rabb, C, California
The Nets will not be good for a long time which means they can be patient with the development of Ivan Rabb. He has lots of potential to grow offensively.
Rabb is already a good defender, and even though he only averaged about one block per game in his career, he altered plenty of shots. His inconsistency at Cal is what hurts him, but he has shown flashes of brilliance and that is what the Nets will try and bottle up and turn into a consistent output.
23: Toronto Raptors: Isaiah Hartenstein, PF, Germany
Isaiah Hartenstein is a bit of an unknown but is an old school big man. He plays an extremely physical style and is a great rebounder. Hartenstein is also a great shot blocker and the Raptors really need an inside presence. He has very little experience but the success of Kristaps Porzingis helps Hartenstein.
Isaiah Hartenstein will need a lot of developing on his offensive game but with the Raptors current roster, he can fill the role of rebounder and rim protector without having to rush his offensive development.
24: UTAH JAZZ: CALEB SWANIGAN, PF, PURDUE
The Jazz are in almost as good of a position as the Celtics. They finished as the fifth seed in the tough Western Conference and have two first-round draft picks.
Swanigan can come right into the NBA and contribute off the bench. Depth is what the best teams have, and that is what Utah is going to get in picking Swanigan.
25: ORLANDO MAGIC: Terrance Ferguson, SG, Australia
Terrance Ferguson has been very hyped up as of late. He attacks the basketball and can also be a spot up shooter. Ferguson will need to develop defensively but would be a good fit with the Magic who need some more scoring.
26: Portland Trailblazers: Semi Ojeleye, F, SMU
Semi Ojeleye is an athletic freak. Ojeleye can handle the ball, shoot threes, create his own shot and get to the rim. Semi Ojeleye is going somewhat underrated in this draft because of his lack of perimeter defense. The Blazers have enough picks to take a shot on Ojeleye to continue building the depth needed to compete in the West.
27: BROOKLYN NETS (VIA BOSTON): JORDAN BELL, PF, OREGON
(Photo Credit: http://247sports.com)
Jordan Bell was a second-round pick before the tournament. Bell was a huge reason Oregon reached their first Final Four since 1939. The Nets would get a solid rebounder who brings in a heavy motor and will give you everything he has. The Nets need these high energy type of players to change the culture in Brooklyn.
28: Los Angeles Lakers: Josh Hart, SG, Villanova
Josh Hart is a leader and a winner, and the Lakers could use some of that in their locker room.
Hart improved his scoring each season at Villanova, and that should translate into the NBA. Hart doesn’t have to be a starting shooting guard to make a big impact. Every team needs a bench scorer and Hart can fill that void for the Lakers as they continue to build towards a championship.
29: San Antonio Spurs: Thomas Bryant, C, Indiana
Any player that the Spurs take should celebrate as if they won the championship. The Spurs will develop Thomas Bryant into a solid NBA starter. Bryant is an excellent rebounder and has a knack for getting offensive boards. He has some decent low post moves and with Gregg Popovich coaching him up he can turn decent into dominant.
30: Utah Jazz: Tyler Lydon, F, Syracuse
Tyler Lydon has improved vastly from his freshman season to sophomore season. Lydon improved his points, rebounds, assists and free throw percentage. At 6-foot-9, Lydon can stretch the floor and he would be a great fit in Utah as a solid role player.
Second Round
31: Atlanta Hawks: Dillon Brooks, SF, Oregon
32: Phoenix Suns: Dwayne Bacon, SF, Florida St.
33: Orlando Magic: Jawun Evans, PG, Oklahoma St.
34: Sacramento Kings: Rodions Kurucs, SF, Latvia
35: Orlando Magic: DJ Wilson, PF, Michigan
36: Philadelphia 76ers: Tyler Dorsey, G, Oregon
37: Boston Celtics: Johnathan Motley, PF, Baylor
38: Chicago Bulls: Devin Robinson, F, Florida
39: Philadelphia 76ers: Derrick White, G, Colorado
40: New Orleans Pelicans: Frank Mason III, PG, Kansas
41: Charlotte Hornets: Tony Bradley, C, North Carolina
42: Utah Jazz: Mathias Lessort, F/C, France
43: Houston Rockets: Kyle Kuzma, PF, Utah
44: New York Knicks: Frank Jackson, SG, Duke
45: Houston Rockets: Ike Anigbogu, C UCLA
46: Philadelphia 76ers: Anzejs Pasecniks, C, Latvia
47: Indiana Pacers: LJ Peak, SG Georgetown
48: Milwaukee Bucks: Alec Peters, PF, Valparaiso
49: Denver Nuggets: Jaron Blossomgame, F, Clemson
50: Philadelphia 76ers: Jonah Bolden, PF, Australia
51: Denver Nuggets: Alberto Abalde, SF, Spain
52: Washington Wizards: Cameron Oliver, PF, Nevada
55: Utah Jazz: Sindarius Thornwell, SG, South Carolina
56: Boston Celtics: Aleksandear Vezenkov, F, Bulgaria
57: Brooklyn Nets: Edmund Summer, PG, Xavier
58: New York Knicks: Sterling Brown, SG, SMU
59: San Antonio Spurs: Monte Morris, PG, Iowa St.
60: Atlanta Hawks: Wesley Iwundu, SG, Kansas State
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There are many players testing draft waters at the moment, but Melo Trimble is an excellent case study. Maryland was a team that started off hot, at 15-1, but they finished the regular season losing five of their last eight. They did make it to the Sweet Sixteen, only to be subdued by the Kansas Jayhawks, the number one overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.
With the season over, the choice of NBA or NCAA looms for Melo and other players that are not sure first round picks. Many players will make this decision based on the money aspect, but I do believe that Trimble could improve his odds of ending up on a team if he stays in school. A year of improvement would likely make him more desirable to a team and give him more of a chance to sign a big contract. Another legitimate counter argument would be the possibility of injury. However, we have seen star players have devastating injuries (Joel Embiid, Nerlens Noel) and still be drafted early. Trimble has the capacity to excel to be that caliber of a player. This past year did not do well for his future in the NBA.
Trimble was a top 100 recruit but could use another year before leaving for the NBA. (Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Tribune.)
Trimble’s numbers were vastly affected by the roster changes. Most notably were the additions of Duke transfer Rasheed Sulaimon and star recruit Diamond Stone. Due to these alterations, many players, including Trimble, saw a decrease in their numbers as an effect of the extra offensive options. Jake Layman saw statistical drops in several categories, however, his shooting percentage improved while his turnover margin and rebounding averages remained similar.
This type of trend did not manifest itself in Melo Trimble’s game. In fact, Trimble had a ten percent decrease in three point percentage and a three percent drop in overall field goal percentage. As a freshamn, he averaged 16.2 points per game, shot 41% from three point range and 41% from the field. This years averages were, 14.8 points per game, 31% from deep, and a 41% overall shooting mark. Diamond Stone took away some of his easier looks inside and caused an increase in jumpers, but the extra options should have meant more open shots because team defenses had more players to concentrate on than just the sophomore point guard. Trimble did have a large bump in assist per game, almost two more per game, but it does not appear that he had significant growth in his overall game.
A junior campaign with the Terrapins would solidify him as a first round draft pick. With Diamond Stone hiring an agent, he is now unable to return to school. This could affect Trimble with the lack of an excellent high pick and roll option. However, with Sulaimon graduating, that should allow Trimble to touch the ball more and cause his numbers to increase next season. With Jacob Layman leaving as well, it will be up to Robert Carter, Trimble, and Damonte Dodd to become the most polished offensive options and the go-to players on the team.
Melo Trimble and Damonte Dodd could be an excellent duo for the Terrapins in 2016-2017. (Photo courtesy of 247 Sports.)
Dodd and Carter will need to work well with Trimble due to the fact that, with the exits of big-men Layman and Stone, they are the best legitimate options in the post. Mark Turgeon and Maryland have no star recruits in the Forward or Center department. They do have a new option at point guard in freshman Anthony Cowan. This would likely take some pressure off of Trimble and allow him to play a bit off the ball as a two guard, but he would still do majority of the ball handling and receive most of the minutes. Recruit Kevin Huerter, a knock down shooter, will likely space the floor and give Trimble an option to rack up assists.
If Trimble decides to return, this is his team. He is in control of it, but that also means that he would take much of the blame if they are unsuccessful. Overall, it is highly probable that his averages would increase. He has proven himself to be a shooter, and those averages would likely return to that of his first year at Maryland, planting him as a sure mid first round pick or better.
Trimble’s lack of hiring an agent at this point, unlike Stone, means that he is mulling this over and aware of the benefits to both sides. As he sees himself mostly placed in the early second round in mock drafts, he will return. He would need to have a very good showing at the NBA Combine to drastically affect that. I see Trimble as a returnee, which would be a big win for the fans in College Park.
