Trade Reaction: Miami Heat Will Send Moultrie To Sixers

1 Comment

Word is that some members of the 2012 NBA Champion Miami Heat are still a bit hung over—literally—after defeating the Oklahoma City for the NBA’s crown just one week ago today.

The Heat selected Arnett Moultrie, a 6’11″ Power Forward from Mississippi State with their 27th overall pick in the draft, but they traded his rights to the Philadelphia 76ers for the 45th overall pick, Justin Hamilton, and a future first round pick.

Moultrie is a long, athletic big that could probably help the Heat up front, but it seems as though they are cognizant of their luxury tax situation moving forward. What most fail to consider is that a first round selection has two guaranteed years of salary, even if the player rarely plays. And the salary in the third and fourth year of a first round draft pick’s contract are pre-set based on the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement. Meanwhile, a player selected in the second round usually gets an unguaranteed deal and will only make the minimum salary for each of their first two years in the league.

The league is moving toward a much more oppressive luxury tax, so it makes perfect sense that the Miami Heat, who already have about $80 million, $78 million, and $76 million respectively committed over the next three years, would defer a pick that will help keep their cap situation in check, at least for now. If the Heat keep adding to their payroll, they’ll routinely find themselves writing luxury tax checks in excess of $30 million, and we don’t know if Micky Arison is willing to shell out that type of money to keep his team intact.

For the 76ers, Moultrie should be able to provide them with some athleticism around the basket. Incumbent starting center Spencer Hawes is an unrestricted free-agent, and the Sixers aren’t expected to break the bank to retain him. With rumors continually swirling around Andre Iguodala’s availability, the Sixers may look to continue their youth movement, notwithstanding their success this postseason.

Moke Hamilton is a Senior NBA Columnist for SheridanHoops.com. Follow him on Twitter.

Filed Under: Draft Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Mock Draft 3.0.1: First and Second Rounds

6 Comments

Draftniks, rejoice!

Yesterday we posted Adam Zagoria’s Top 5 picks at each position. In the next 10 days, we will be posting Tommy Dee’s sleeper picks and his list of the 10 Worst Draft picks of the past 10 years.

You want top-notch draft preview coverage?

We’ve got it for you. And if you are new to the site, or if you missed these posts, check out A.J. Mitnick’s column on the Top International Early-Entry Prospects, along with Dee’s Top 10 early-entry American prospects

With all due respect to Chad Ford and Jonathan Givony, we’re coming after y’all (in a non-confrontational way). Chad is a friend of Sheridan’s, and Jonathan is the Mel Kiper of the NBA draftniks.

So without further ado, here is Mock Draft 3.0. (For more on the draft, click over to ProBasketballDraft.com after you’ve read this piece.)

1. New Orleans Hornets – Anthony Davis, PF, KentuckyHornets small logo

Etch this pick in stone. No one else is under consideration and New Orleans will not trade the pick, either. Davis is a tremendous weakside shot blocker and very good rebounder. Davis will make his impact felt immediately on the boards and defensively.

2. Charlotte Bobcats – Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansasbobcats small logo

The Bobcats have made it known they are open to moving the pick for the right price. Robinson has been moving up boards with great workouts and interviews. Many around the league view him as among the most NBA-ready prospects and he could give the Bobcats a boost in their frontcourt.  While the Bobcats like Robinson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Harrison Barnes are both possibilities here as well.

3. Washington Wizards – Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentuckywizards small logo

Washington is looking to put talent around John Wall, and Kidd-Gilchrist compliments him very well. The Wizards would be ferocious in the fast break and Washington would add a versatile defender and excellent rebounder as well. While Kidd-Gilchrist must improve his jump shot at the next level, he is the youngest player in the draft and has arguably the best motor and work ethic, so odds are he will improve.  According to sources, Washington prefers Kidd-Gilchrist to Beal.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers – Bradley Beal, SG, Floridacavs small logo

While Cleveland does like Barnes and could envision him playing alongside Kyrie Irving, Bradley Beal has too much potential to pass on at 4. The Cavs must find talented players to surround Irving with, and Beal is among the best shooters in this draft, and combined with his size and frame has the potential to be a very good defender as well. Beal and Irving would certainly be exciting to watch. Early indications in Cleveland are that they are more comfortable with the perimeter players in the lottery but are considering Andre Drummond a viable option and will work him out before the draft.

5. Sacramento Kings – Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolinakings small logo

The Kings are looking for a particular type of player at No. 5. Sacramento wants to add someone who is mature, polished and a winner. Barnes is a very reliable scorer, and while he may not have as big of an upside as some of the other prospects, he is less likely to bust out. One Eastern Conference GM described Barnes as being a great 3rd option in the NBA, especially if he is paired with a point guard who can facilitate and a big that can score in the post. In Sacramento, playing with DeMarcus Cousins could allow Barnes to flourish.

6. Portland Trail Blazers – Andre Drummond, C, Connecticutblazers small logo

The Blazers are looking to pair LaMarcus Aldridge with a big man to help take the pressure off of him on both ends. If Drummond is there at No. 6, Portland would get a player with the more upside than any other prospect besides Anthony Davis. Drummond is the prototype of what you want a center to look like physically and has freakish athleticism and agility for a player his size. His post game is a work in progress, but if the Blazers are patient with him it could be a home run. Drummond has as much upside as any center prospect since Dwight Howard, but does come with risk too.

7. Golden State Warriors – Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio Statewarriors small logo

The Warriors are somewhat flexible as they can wait to see who falls to them or they can target someone to bolster their frontcourt.  Sullinger is a name that keeps being mentioned in connection to the Warriors.  Sullinger silenced a lot of skeptics by measuring in at a legit 6’9” and toning up at the Chicago combine. Combined with his polished post game and on court IQ, Sullinger should be able to provide valuable minutes as a rookie backing up David Lee and Andrew Bogut. Sullinger’s physical limitations could cause him to fall on draft day, and the Warriors are considering Terrence Jones, Moe Harkless, and Perry Jones as well.

8. Toronto Raptors – Austin Rivers, SG, Dukeraptors small logo

One of hottest names right now is Rivers, who is one of the better scorers in this draft.  According to a league source, Rivers has already received a promise from a team in the top-10.  Rivers is very creative and smooth. Rivers had one of the most productive combines as he performed well and excelled in the interview portion as well.  Rivers worked out for the Raptors earlier this week and while Jeremy Lamb pulled out due to injury Rivers looked impressive.  Toronto will have 2011 Lottery Pick Jonas Valanciunas join the team this season so it seems they prefer to add help on the perimeter. Toronto could consider Dion Waiters here as well as Damian Lillard as well since Jose Calderon’s name is being included in trade talks.

9. Detroit Pistons – John Henson, PF, North Carolinapistons small logo

Henson provides length, rebounding and shot-blocking, all things the Pistons are looking to pair alongside Greg Monroe. While Henson is not as athletic as some presumed, he would instantly compliment Monroe.  According to a source, Detroit seems more inclined to go big at this point.

10. New Orleans Hornets – Damian Lillard, PG, Weber StateHornets small logo

Damian Lillard is the best point guard in this draft, a tremendous athlete and can score from all over the court. Lillard will help create space for Eric Gordon and Anthony Davis. Lillard’s name is being mentioned as a possibility for Portland and Toronto, so the Hornets would be ecstatic to see him available.

Dion Waiters11. Portland Trail Blazers – Dion Waiters, SG, Syracuseblazers small logo

According to sources, the Blazers prefer Lillard over Kendall Marshall, and should Lillard not fall to Portland the Blazers will look at wings. Waiters is an intriguing name, having been reportedly been given a promise while in Chicago, who will provide the Blazers with a slashing guard that can create for himself as well as set up teammates. Some experts believe Waiters can play some point or initiate the offense. It’s fair to say that Portland, with two lottery picks, will be willing to gamble on a prospect if they believe he has high upside.

Meyers Leonard12. Milwaukee Bucks – Meyers Leonard, C, Illinoisbucks small logo

Leonard really improved his stock at the combine by showing off elite athleticism and interviewing better than many expected. There is no question that Milwaukee wants a player that can help now, but since the Bogut trade the Bucks have no long-term center. Leonard is still raw but has a lot of potential and could be a great fit with Brandon Jennings.

13. Phoenix Suns – Jeremy Lamb, SG, Connecticutsuns small logo

Lamb is a long, athletic, scoring guard that can fill it up on offense. The Suns who might be starting the post-Nash era next season would be wise to find help on the perimeter. Lamb would also provide the Suns with an aggressive wing defender. Unfortunately for Lamb he sprained his ankle in a Raptors workout this week and caused him to have to cancel a workout with Portland.  Phoenix should be Lamb’s floor.

14. Houston Rockets – Perry Jones, PF, Baylorrockets small logo

Jones is perhaps the biggest enigma in the draft because he has great size and special talent but never played up to his potential in college. Jones needs to go to a team that will properly utilize his talents in order to reach his potential. Jones would give the Houston a dimension that they currently lack on offense, as he is very skilled and comfortable facing the basket. Having been stuck at the end of the lottery the past few seasons, Daryl Morey needs to shake it up on draft night and hitting on Jones could vault the Rockets into the playoffs.

15. Philadelphia 76ers – Terrence Jones, PF, Kentuckysixers small logo

 

Jones falling to the Sixers at this point would be a welcome surprise.  Jones can create mismatches in the NBA with his ability to face the basket and as well as pass.  Jones is physically able to mix it up down low defensively and would give Philadelphia a versatile forward who could help right away. Jones is an intriguing prospect as some feel he could be one of the top forwards in the draft.

For picks 16 through 30, click here.

 

Filed Under: Columns, Draft Tagged With: ,

Mock Draft 3.0 – Part 2

1 Comment


16. Houston Rockets – Tyler Zeller, C, North Carolinarockets small logo

The Rockets struggles to replace Yao Ming have been well documented. Having swung for the fences with their previous pick, Houston can play it safe and take Zeller. The 7-footer moves well for his size and has good hands and is efficient in the post but lacks the high-end upside to be an elite starter at his position.

17. Dallas Mavericks – Terrence Ross, SG, Washingtonmavs small logo

The Mavericks need to infuse youthful talent on their aging roster. Ross is one of the top shooters and athletes in the draft.  With his length and athleticism Ross could be a good defender eventually. Playing alongside Dirk Nowitzki could certainly help Ross.  Moe Harkless is said to be under consideration for this pick as well.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves – Moe Harkless, SF, St. John’swolves small logo

Harkless was one of the better freshmen in college last year with his versatile skillset and high motor. Harkless will provide toughness, defense, rebounding and is improving offensively. This pick is likely to be dealt on or before draft night, but if the Wolves pick for themselves look for them to target a perimeter player that won’t command the ball to be effective and can blend in with Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio instantly.

19. Orlando Magic – Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi Statemagic small logo

The Magic are in limbo with the current Dwight Howard situation. Regardless of what happens, they need to take the best player on the board. Moultrie could crack the lottery, but falling this far would benefit the Magic, giving them a young, viable big that is physically ready for the NBA and polished enough to help on both ends of the court.

20. Denver Nuggets – Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolinanuggets small logo

With Andre Miller a free agent and 36, the Nuggets could tap Marshall to replace him.  Ironically, Marshall compares favorably to Miller with his size and court vision. Marshall has very good court awareness and is a very skilled passer. Denver can go in a lot of directions on draft night and will likely take the best player available. Marshall is a lottery-caliber prospect and would blend in well in Denver and compliment Ty Lawson.

21. Boston Celtics – Royce White, PF, Iowa Stateceltics small logo

White is a very interesting player with his unique game for his size and position. He has lottery talent, but off-court concerns could drop him down the 1st round. The Celtics would benefit from him falling as they need to add young talent on their aging roster. White really impressed execs at the combine with his performances in the gym and interviews. With back-to-back picks, Boston can afford to take a gamble –especially with this kind of upside.

22. Boston Celtics – Quincy Miller, SF, Baylorceltics small logo

Miller’s torn ACL held him back during his freshman season, but make no mistake he has lottery abilities and is a very skilled player for his size. Miller is versatile enough to play some PF as well. Learning behind Paul Pierce could only help Miller with his development. The Celtics would be getting a very good value pick here.

23. Atlanta Hawks – Tony Wroten Jr., SG, Washington

The Hawks are one of the oldest teams in the league and need to improve their depth. Wroten is a very talented player who could fill multiple roles for the Hawks coming off the bench.  While Wroten is far from a finished product, he has the athleticism to be able to contribute right away, but his jump shot really holds him back.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers – Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventurecavs small logo

Nicholson is a good value pick in the late 1st round. He can contribute on the boards and provide scoring off the bench. Nicholson also has very good range for a player his size, possibly could be a stretch-4. With the Cavs needing more scoring to ease the burden on Irving, Nicholson could make a lot of sense. Evan Fournier, Royce White, and Quincy Miller are all possibilities if they are available at this point.

25. Memphis Grizzlies – Marquis Teague, PG, Kentuckygrizzlies small logo

With the so much money tied up between Rudy Gay, Marc Gasol, and Zach Randolph, it seems like the Grizzlies will need to make a move for flexibility. Mike Conley could be the player moved, and if that is the case adding a player with Teague’s potential is essential. Teague is a quick, score-first PG but showed the ability to subjugate his game for the benefit of his team at Kentucky. Hearing Will Barton, Doron Lamb, and John Jenkins are under serious consideration as well.

26. Indiana Pacers – Evan Fournier, SG, Poiterspacers small logo

The Pacers could look for a big here but adding a player like Fournier would be wise. Indiana appeared to struggle in the playoffs to create offense, and the crafty Frenchman would be able to give the Pacers a penetrating guard that can also distribute. Fournier is only 19 but has played well on the big stage in France.

27. Miami Heat – Fab Melo, C, Syracuseheat small logo

Miami struggles with length and doesn’t have a true shot blocker to protect the rim. Melo would fit well with the Heat as his best skills are on the defensive end and rebounding. While he may have inflated stats due to the zone, Melo is an intriguing specimen who if he develops any offensive game would be a very good starter. Melo does have red flags with respect to his character, but joining a team with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade should help expedite the maturation process. Festus Ezeli and Draymond Green are other names to keep an eye on here.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder – Jeff Taylor, SF, Vanderbiltthunder small logo

The Thunder don’t have any glaring needs, so they’re in a position to take the best player available at their slot. Taylor is a polished, mature player who was very productive in the SEC. He can contribute on both ends and has good athleticism.

29. Chicago Bulls – Doron Lamb, SG, Kentuckybulls small logo

The Bulls are in a unique position in that Derrick Rose is likely to miss a significant portion of next season while recovering from a torn ACL. Chicago has the talent to compete for the playoffs without Rose but still need to pair him with more scorers to ease the burden on him. Lamb is a great fit for Chicago in that he is one of the best shooters in the draft and also can play some PG.

30. Golden State Warriors – Draymond Green, PF, Michigan Statewarriors small logo

Continuing to beef up their frontcourt, the Warriors will look to take a NBA-ready player like Green. Green is more of a PF but could play some SF.  Green is a talented scorer with range and a very good passer.  While Green may not project to be a star, he should be a productive player for a long time.

For the 2nd round of Mock Draft 3.0, click here.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Mock Draft 3.0 – Part 3

1 Comment

31. Charlotte Bobcats – John Jenkins, SG, Vanderbiltbobcats small logo

Jenkins is one of the top shooters in the draft and the Bobcats sorely lack talent. If Jenkins falls to the second round, he is a steal.

32. Washington Wizards – Will Barton, SG, Memphiswizards small logo

Barton can give the Wizards the spacing they need to allow John Wall to slash. Another wing that could easily go in the 20’s.

33. Cleveland Cavaliers – Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbiltcavs small logo

Cleveland has no true center on their roster, and Ezeli has some upside and should contribute right away.

34. Cleveland Cavaliers – Tornike Shengelia, PF, Charleroicavs small logo

Expect the Cavs to select at least one player who will be stashed overseas. Shengelia has a nose for scoring and can play some SF.

35. Golden State Warriors – Darius Miller, SF, Kentuckywarriors small logo

Experienced starter and solid all-around player, Miller helps Golden State upgrade its perimeter.

36. Sacramento Kings – Miles Plumlee, C, Dukekings small logo

Sacramento needs to find a big to pair with Cousins, and Plumlee not only is big but arguably among the most athletic prospects. Plumlee doesn’t need the ball to be effective.

37. Toronto Raptors – Tyshawn Taylor, PG, Kentuckyraptors small logo

Taylor is a first-round talent and great athlete, and if he falls this far is a no brainer for Toronto, which is looking hard at PGs in this draft.

38. Denver Nuggets – Orlando Johnson, SG, UC Santa Barbaranuggets small logo

Denver will look to find the promising wing on the board here, and Johnson would contribute right away with his scoring ability.

39. Detroit Pistons – Kevin Jones, PF, West Virginiapistons small logo

Beyond Monroe, the Pistons don’t get enough offense from their bigs. Jones would help space the court and give Monroe space since he is such a good shooter.

40. Portland Trail Blazers – Tomas Satoransky, SG, Sevillablazers small logo

According to a source, the Pistons are targeting international prospects with their second-round picks.  Satoransky has good size and ballhandling skills.

41. Portland Trail Blazers – Kyle O’Quinn, PF, Norfolk Stateblazers small logo

O’Quinn will provide valuable depth to a thin frontcourt. While Portland prefers to go international, if O’Quinn is here that may be too tough to pass on.

42. Milwaukee Bucks – Kevin Murphy, SG, Tennessee Techbucks small logo

Murphy is one of the top sleepers in the draft as many around the league didn’t feel he played against top competition, but Murphy is a gifted scorer with great size.

43. Atlanta Hawks – Drew Gordon, PF, New MexicoHawks small logo

Gordon has is a good rebounder with nice size and athleticism. If the Hawks select Gordon he could add depth to their frontcourt right away.

44. Detroit Pistons – Jared Cunningham, SG, Oregon Statepistons small logo

According to several scouts Cunningham is the top athlete in this draft.  While very skinny, Cunningham is lightning fast and knows how to finish.

45. Philadelphia 76ers – Kostas Papanikolaou, SF, Olympiacossixers small logo

Papanikolaou is a very steady player that doesn’t necessarily excel in any one area but works hard and is productive despite not being very athletic.

46. New York Knicks – Darius Johnson-Odom, PG, Marquetteknicks small logo

DJO is a very athletic guard that can play both the point and off the ball. Gifted scorer that will be great off the bench.

47. Washington Wizards – Jae Crowder, PF, Marquettewizards small logo

Crowder was one of the most productive players in college, and while there are questions about his pro position, he gets the job done on the court.

48. Utah Jazz – Henry Sims, PF, Georgetownjazz small logo

Sims is an intriguing big because he is able to facilitate from the foul line and quick enough to get by his defender. Extremely long wingspan, 7’4”.

49. Orlando Magic – Darrion Pellum, SG, Hamptonmagic small logo

Pellum may be the biggest sleeper in the draft.  6’7” and a very talented scorer, this small-school product has captured the eyes of several executives.

50. Denver Nuggets – Furkan Aldemir, PF, Galatasaraynuggets small logo

Aldemir is a very good rebounder who can continue to play and develop overseas.  Not your typical European big man.

51. Boston Celtics – Scott Machado, PG, Ionaceltics small logo

Machado is an exciting player to watch and can light it up in a hurry. Would be a good fit in the Celtics locker room.

52. Golden State Warriors – Tu Holloway, PG, Xavierwarriors small logo

Holloway is a savvy point guard that knows how to run a team and is not afraid to take big shots. Would give the Warriors a backup point guard they need.

53. Los Angeles Clippers – Kim English, SF, Missouri

English is a solid all-around player that can shoot.  English has high IQ and can play all along the perimeter, which would help the Clippers.

54. Philadelphia 76ers – Kris Joseph, SF, Syracusesixers small logo

Joseph is a proven scorer and solid all-around player. Having played for four years at Syracuse, he is ready to step in and contribute right away.

55. Dallas Mavericks – Khris Middleton, SF, Texas A&Mmavs small logo

Middleton’s stock took a dive this year due to injuries, but the talent there is intriguing. Middleton is long and athletic and can score off the dribble, something the Mavericks need.

56. Toronto Raptors – Hollis Thompson, SF, Georgetownraptors small logo

Thompson is a very reliable shooter because of consistent mechanics. While at Georgetown, Thompson was a very good rebounder as well.

57. Brooklyn Nets – JaMychal Green, PF, Alabama

Green has had a great draft season as he excelled at Portsmouth and has really wowed teams in workouts. Green is very long and athletic and has a deceptively good offensive game.

58. Minnesota Timberwolves – Bernard James, C, Florida Statewolves small logo

Will contribute right away due to his size, strength, athleticism, and maturity. James’ character is highly regarded and if he weren’t 27 he would likely be a first round pick.

59. San Antonio Spurs – Leon Radosevic, PF, Milanospurs small logo

Radosevic is your typical European big: smart, polished, and not overly athletic. At 22, with his size would be a likely candidate for a team like the Spurs.

60. Los Angeles Lakers – Mike Scott, PF, Virginia

Scott is a very solid offensive player and shows polish.  Should be able to provide valuable minutes off the bench for a team right away.

For Mock Draft 2.0, click here.

For Mock Draft 1.0, click here.

Joe Kotosh is the Editor-in-chief of Pro Basketball Draft, a leading scouting service in the world of professional basketball.  Before Joe created PBD he served as an NBPA & FIBA certified agent and scouted players all across the world. Born and raised in Cleveland, Joe also contributes to Fox Sports Ohio and the Cleveland Plain Dealer. You can follow Joe on Twitter @Probballdraft.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Mock Draft 2.0: Whose stock is rising and falling?

8 Comments

CHICAGO — A week ago we brought you SheridanHoops’ Mock Draft 1.0, and there has been some movement amongmy projections after attending the NBA’s pre-draft camp in Chicago this week.

Of course, there is no movement at No. 1, where Anthony Davis may as well start meeting with real estate agents in New Orleans to find himself a nice five-year lease on a place with high ceilings. But there has been a lot of chatter around the Internet about teams being willing to either package their picks to move up to a higher spot, or to trade out of the first round entirely to avoid the two-year contractual commitment that comes with the rookie wage scale.

The draft is less than three weeks away, and we will be keeping you constantly updated with the players whose stock is rising and falling.

For more on the draft, I invite you to check out my Web site, ProBasketball Draft.com.

1. Hornets – Anthony Davis, PF, KentuckyHornets small logo

Davis is the consensus #1 player in the draft and the type of talent that can help turn a franchise around. Davis will make his impact felt immediately on the boards and defensively.

2. Bobcats – Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentucky bobcats small logo

The Bobcats have made it known they are open to moving the pick for the right price. If they keep it, Kidd-Gilchrist gives them an instant impact on a team that is devoid of talent. His motor, attitude and work ethic are good building blocks for the Bobcats franchise.

3. Wizards – Bradley Beal, SG, Floridawizards small logo

Washington is looking to put talent around John Wall, and Beal compliments him very well. With his ability to score in a variety of ways, Beal and Wall have the chance to be one of the best backcourts in the NBA. After the NBA Combine, size concerns appear no longer relevant.

4. Cavs – Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolinacavs small logo

The Cavs have liked Barnes since his freshman season, and he gives them the scoring they are looking for on the wing. Barnes will benefit playing off of Kyrie Irving and help form a 1-2 scoring punch the Cavs currently lack.

5. Kings – Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansaskings small logo

Robinson is the type of player the Kings are looking for with their #5 pick. He is mature, polished and a winner. Robinson will help stabilize a young, leaderless locker room. He should be able to have an instant impact in Sacramento.

6. Trail Blazers – Andre Drummond, C, Connecticutblazers small logo

The Blazers are looking to pair LaMarcus Aldridge with a big man to help take the pressure off of him on both ends. I have Drummond falling to them at #6, and if that happens Portland’s new GM, Neil Olshey, can grab a player who has one of the highest ceilings in the entire draft. Drummond has had an impressive combine with his measurements and interviews.

7. Warriors – Terence Jones, PF, Kentuckywarriors small logo

The big mover in Mock 2.0. Jones is a unique talent with his versatile skill set, and going to Warriors could be the best fit for him. Jones would give the Warriors a very good piece to bring off the bench and help shore up the frontcourt. While Jones’ offensive talents are frequently talked about, he is also a good defensive player.

8. Raptors – Jeremy Lamb, SG, Connecticutraptors small logo

Lamb is a long, athletic, scoring guard that would do very well playing alongside DeMar DeRozan in Toronto. The Raptors need someone like Lamb who can provide an additional scoring option on the perimeter. The fact that Lamb is an aggressive defender will also make him more appealing in Toronto.

9. Pistons – John Henson, PF, North Carolinapistons small logo

Henson provides length, rebounding and shot-blocking, all things the Pistons are looking to pair alongside Greg Monroe. Henson and Monroe will the give the Pistons a very good frontcourt and help further continue the rebuilding effort in Detroit.

10. Hornets – Damian Lillard, PG, Weber StateHornets small logo

Damian Lillard is the best point guard in this draft, a tremendous athlete and an able scorer from all over the court. Lillard will help create space for Eric Gordon and Anthony Davis.

11. Trail Blazers – Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolinablazers small logo

Another big northward mover in Mock 2.0. After suffering through last season with Raymond Felton, the Blazers would greatly benefit from the improved point guard play that Marshall would bring. Marshall isn’t a great scoring threat at this point but can be a good facilitator and make the team around him better. Marshall has very good court awareness and is a very skilled passer.

12. Bucks – Perry Jones III, SF, Baylorbucks small logo

Jones is perhaps the biggest enigma in the draft. With prototypical physical attributes and good talent, Jones never played up to his potential in college. He will need to go to a team that will properly utilize his talents in order to reach his potential. Jones would give the Bucks a dimension that they currently lack on offense, as he is very skilled and comfortable facing the basket.

Dion Waiters13. Suns – Dion Waiters, SG, Syracusesuns small logo

Waiters is one of the better scorers in the draft and for a team looking for someone to create their own shot, Waiters is a logical fit. Sources have said that Waiters has received a promise, and the Suns were the team making it.

Meyers Leonard14. Rockets – Meyers Leonard, C, Illinoisrockets small logo

Leonard’s physical talents and potential warrant him being a lottery pick. His inconsistent play held him back but he is a skilled big man. The Rockets need an upgrade in the frontcourt which Leonard would provide.

15. Sixers – Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio Statesixers small logo

Sullinger falling to this point would be a great fit for the Sixers. One of their biggest weaknesses was frontcourt depth and scoring, which Sullinger would certainly upgrade. Sullinger would also be good future replacement for Elton Brand. He surprised many by measuring in at a legit 6’9” at the NBA Combine.

16. Rockets – Moe Harkless, SF, St. John’srockets small logo

Harkless was one of the better freshmen in college last year with his versatile skill set and high motor. The Rockets need to continue adding talent to their core. Harkless will provide toughness, defense, rebounding and is improving offensively.

17. Mavericks – Austin Rivers, SG, Dukemavs small logo

The Mavericks need to infuse youthful talent on their aging roster. Rivers is one of the better players and scorers in this draft. Similar to the Spurs building a young core around their aging star players, the Mavericks need to do the same. Rivers is a mature, creative scorer who has a very smooth offensive game.

18. Timberwolves – Terrence Ross, SG, Washingtonwolves small logo

Minnesota has a very deep frontcourt and Ricky Rubio has helped solved the point guard problem. The T’Wolves need to continue to upgrade their wing positions. Ross is an athletic player who can contribute right away with his good defense and shooting range.

19. Magic – Tyler Zeller, C, North Carolinamagic small logo

The Magic are in limbo with the current Dwight Howard situation. Regardless of what happens, they need to take the best player on the board. Zeller falling this far would benefit the Magic, which would give them a young, viable alternative to Howard. He brings a polished offensive game and is NBA ready.

20. Nuggets – Arnett Moultire, PF, Mississippi Statenuggets small logo

Moultrie is a talented and athletic big man who flew under the radar while playing at Mississippi State. Moultrie has an NBA body and can contribute right away. The Nuggets need to continue to upgrade their frontcourt and Moultrie could help from Day 1.

21. Celtics – Royce White, PF, Iowa Stateceltics small logo

White is a very interesting player with his unique game for his size and position. He has lottery talent but off-court concerns could drop him down in the 1st round. The Celtics would benefit from him falling as they need to add young talent to their aging roster. White has been among the most impressive prospects at the NBA Combine.

22. Celtics – Quincy Miller, SF, Baylorceltics small logo

Miller’s torn ACL has held him back so far from living up to the high expectations coming out of high school. His health will be very important for his draft stock as his talent level is very high. The Celtics  would be getting a very good value pick here.

23. Hawks – Tony Wroten Jr., SG, Washington

The Hawks are one of the oldest teams in the league and need to improve their depth. Wroten is a very talented player who could fill multiple roles for the Hawks coming off the bench.  While Wroten is far from a finished product, he has the athleticism to be able to contribute right away.

24. Cavs – Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbiltcavs small logo

Ezeli is a good defensive center who will block shots and rebound. Ezeli’s physical skills are intriguing and he began playing at a late age and has plenty of room to continue to develop. He gives the Cavs size up front, something they currently lack outside of Anderson Varejao.

25. Grizzlies – John Jenkins, SG, Vanderbiltgrizzlies small logo

With the uncertainties regarding the futures of Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo, the Grizzlies would be wise to have insurance. Regardless of what happens, they still need depth and Jenkins would provide them with a shooting threat they need. Jenkins is one of the best shooters in the draft who is an underrated scorer and defender.

26. Pacers – Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventurepacers small logo

Despite having two good players at PF, the Pacers still need depth upfront. Nicholson is a good value pick in the late 1st round. He can contribute on the boards and provide scoring off the bench. Nicholson also has very good range for a player his size.

27. Heat – Marquis Teague, PG, Kentuckyheat small logo

While the Heat selected a point guard last draft, Teague’s athleticism and talent are too much to pass up here. He would instantly upgrade that position and can give the Heat the consistent point guard play that they have been lacking.

28. Thunder – Jeff Taylor, SF, Vanderbiltthunder small logo

The Thunder don’t have any glaring needs, so they’re in a position to take the best player available at their slot. Taylor is a polished, mature player who was very productive in the SEC. He can contribute on both ends and has good athleticism.

29. Bulls – Orlando Johnson, SG, UC Santa Barbarabulls small logo

Johnson was one of the best scorers in the NCAA last year with his good shooting touch and ability to get to the rim. Despite not being a household name, Johnson could be a very good fit on a Bulls team that needs scoring and a player who can create his own shot.

30. Warriors – Fab Melo, C, Syracusewarriors small logo

Continuing to beef up their frontcourt, the Warriors take a NBA ready big man in Melo. While Melo is raw offensively and lacks polish, he can step in and play good defense and rebound early on.

For a look back at SheridaHoops’ Mock Draft 1.0, click here.

Joe Kotosh is the Editor-in-chief of Pro Basketball Draft, a leading scouting service in the world of professional basketball.  Before Joe created PBD he served as an NBPA & FIBA certified agent and scouted players all across the world. Born and raised in Cleveland, Joe also contributes to Fox Sports Ohio and the Cleveland Plain Dealer. You can follow Joe on Twitter @Probballdraft.

Filed Under: Draft Tagged With: , , ,