2009 NBA Draft Winners and Losers

WINNERS

Milwaukee Bucks: Traded Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons to New Jersey for Richard Jefferson, drafted Joe Alexander (No. 8), drafted Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (No.37)
I want to start with my favorite NBA team. Milwaukee upgraded its talent level. The Bucks know what they are getting in Jefferson, and Alexander has a chance to be an absolute star in this league. The problem is, they both play the same position, although there's some notion that Alexander can play some 4. They needed help at forward and they definitely got it. Their starting lineup now looks pretty good with Mo Williams at PG, Michael Redd at SG, Andrew Bogut at C, Charlie Villanueva at PF, and Richard Jefferson at SF. They also created some cap space and freed up a bit of a logjam down low. I wasn't crazy about the Mbah a Moute pick when they could have had Bil lWalker or Chris Douglas-Roberts but overall I really liked this trade for the Bucks and I think they got a lot better last night!

Portland Trail Blazers: Traded Jarrett Jack and draft rights of Brandon Rush (No. 13) to Indiana for Ike Diogu and draft rights to Jerryd Bayless (No. 11), traded draft rights of Darrell Arthur (No. 27) and the draft rights to Joey Dorsey (No. 33) to Houston for draft rights to Nicolas Batum (No. 25)
For the second straight year, the Blazers came away the big winners. Last year Portland added its franchise center in Greg Oden, and this year it added a potential franchise lead guard in Bayless. He's going to complement Brandon Roy beautifully in the backcourt. Batum is an upside pick who may not play right away, but has great athleticism and slashing ability. A squad of Bayless, Roy, Martell Webster, Travis Outlaw, Batum, LaMarcus Aldridge, Channing Frye and Oden will compete for a low playoff spot next season and for an NBA championship within three years. The Blazers have had 2 great drafts in a row.

New Jersey Nets: Traded Richard Jefferson to Milwaukee for Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons, drafted Brook Lopez (No. 10), Ryan Anderson (No. 21) and Chris Douglas-Roberts (No. 40)
I think the Nets also got better from their trade with the Bucks. Yi makes sense from a marketing standpoint, even if he never lives up to the hype and Bobby simmons gives them good depth at guard along with Devin Harris. Aside from the tradethe Nets finally added a low post scorer in Lopez to complement defensive-specialists Josh Boone and Sean Williams. Anderson should be a match-up problem who can stretch defenses, and Douglas-Roberts, a first-team All-American, was probably the steal of the draft in the second round.

Memphis Grizzlies: In an eight-player deal, Memphis acquired O.J. Mayo, Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner for Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins. Also acquired Darrell Arthur for Donte Greene and a future second-rounder
Memphis is the winner in the deal. I personally think Mayo is the most NBA-ready player in this year's draft and he will be electric when paired with Rudy Gay and Mike Conley Jr. . Memphis also did well adding Darrell Arthur, a lottery-level talent whose representation apparently dropped the ball on notifying teams about his physical condition causing him to slip hard.

Miami Heat: Drafted Michael Beasley (No. 2), traded two future second-round picks to Minnesota for Mario Chalmers (No. 34)
O.J. Mayo came up in discussions, but ultimately the Heat made the right choice. I think you can expect Beasley to step in and help turn this franchise around. If Beasley isn't a good fit, the Heat can always showcase his talents for a year or two and unload him, his value will be substantial as he's sure to tear it up right from the start. Chalmers was considered a possible mid-first rounder who slid. He gives Miami some much-needed depth in the backcourt and may even end up starting alongside Dwyane Wade if he improves his playmaking skills.

LOSERS

Indiana Pacers: Traded Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto for T.J. Ford and draft rights to Roy Hibbert (No. 17); traded Ike Diogu and draft rights of Jerryd Bayless (No. 12) to Portland for draft rights to Brandon Rush (No. 12) and Jarrett Jack
It's unclear exactly what the Pacers are doing. They added a point guard in Ford, but traded away their franchise big man and replaced him with Hibbert who is a skilled offensive player who is too slow and lethargic to excel at the NBA level. It was time to rebuild, but Indiana looks like it will be competing for a high lottery pick next season. Giving up Jerryd Bayless for Brandon Rush and change was retarded.

Charlotte Bobcats: Drafted D.J. Augustin (No. 9) and Alexis Ajinca (No. 20)
The Bobcats have a young point guard in Ray Felton and an obvious need at center. Drafting Augustin, a good college player who's lack of size and athleticism will hurt him in the NBA, was a mistake considering Jerryd Bayless was on the board. They compounded that error by using the 20th pick on Ajinca, a very long, very unpolished prospect who averaged just five points and five rebounds per game last year in France. Oops...

Cleveland Cavaliers: Drafted J.J. Hickson (No. 19)
The Cavs had a number of options at 19 but a 6-8 project power forward was not what the doctor ordered. Since losing Carlos Boozer in free agency, this team has failed miserably to surround LeBron with proper talent, and this pick is more of the same.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Acquired Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins for O.J. Mayo, Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner
Basically, it's a Love for Mayo swap with a lot of bad contracts. Minnesota did well unloading some terrible contacts (Jaric and Walker) while taking on Cardinal's terrible contract. Minnesota gave up a potential All-Star guard. Even more puzzling is the decision to move Al Jefferson to center and make Love a top 5 pick. On the positive side, Miller can step in and help this team win games next year and gives them great outside shooting. They also got a lot of cap room in the deal, I just think that Mayo is going to be great and I think he is basically NBA ready right now. Just seems like a big mistake to me.

2008 NBA Mock Draft

1. Chicago Bulls - Derrick Rose (PG - Memphis)

Really I think that Beasley is the best fit for the Bulls since then need a low-post scorer. However, Rose is simply the best player in the draft and the Bulls will take the best available. Plus he's a Chicago-native so he'll draw in a crowd.

2. Miami Heat - Michael Beasley (PF - Kansas State)
Wow, what a catch at #2! Who won't pack the house to see the high-flying trio of Marion, Beasley, and Wade! Beasley will no doubt bring the Heat back to the post-season in the East. However, don’t sleep on the possibility of Riles dealing the pick down for a couple of quality players.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves - O.J. Mayo (PG - USC)
Although some skeptics have him dropping as of late, we are still high on O.J. This cat has amazing size and athletic abilities for a point guard. He’s NBA ready. Although the Twolves currently have quite a few PGs he is more of a scoring PG and would suit big Al Jefferson's skill set perfectly!

4. Seatle Supersonics - Jerryd Bayless (PG/SG - Arizona)

This year’s draft will have more PG’s in the top ten than in the past. Although most Bayless skeptics aren’t quite sure if he’s really a PG or a SG because ge’s a bit of a tweener size wise. The Sports Flow likes his game and think he can finally rid the Sonics of the Earl Watson/Luke Ridnour debate that is boring fans to death. Look for him to have a good rookie season too (due to the fact that he'll be playing with Durant!)

5. Memphis Grizzlies - Brook Lopez (C - Stanford)

After arguably one of the most lopsided trades in NBA history for Pau Gasol this season, the Grizz have a hole in their front line that Kwame Brown could never hope to fill. Maybe the selection of Lopez to log time at the 5 spot will start to heal the pain?

6. New York Knicks - Danilo Gallinari (PG - ITALY)

I don't know a whole lot about this kid. However I have heard that he has great size (6 foot 10) and he has good outside game and can create his own shots. Although taking international players is risky (think Darko) I think he fits D'Antoni's system well and his international experience makes him more game-ready and carries some experience

7. LA Clippers - DJ Augustin (PG - Texas)
I’ve been hearing lots of rumors about Elton Brand being a bit unhappy with the personnel moves of the Clipper execs. This makes me think that Kevin Love would be the perfect pick. But until a time that Brand is moved, he’s their franchise man and more than enough skill at the PF spot. DJ might be a bit undersized but he’s got tons of upside. If Brand stays, they take Augustin.

8. Milwaukee Bucks - Eric Gordon (PG - Indiana)

With Bogut, Yi, and Villeneuva already young prospects my Bucks don't need to take another PF in Kevin Love. They need to take a good young PG who can score the ball. This would be Gordon. And as Complete Sports mentioned, they then could look to dump Michael Redd's monstrous contract to rebuild the team.

9. Charlotte Bobcats - Kevin Love - (PF - UCLA)

If Tyler Hansbrough had left for the draft I assume that MJ would be lobbying for him. However, he's not and if Loves slips to the 9 spot, which I think he will, the 'Cats will jump at him!

10. NJ Nets - DeAndre Jordan - (C - Texas A&M)

The Nets need a Center. There is no question that the 5 spot is their biggest weakness. DeAndre Jordan is a 7-footer with a huge wingspan and good timing. He’s generally knocked for being a bit soft. Might be a risky pick.

11. Indiana Pacers - Anthony Randolph - (PF - LSU)

Randolph may be skinny but a bit more size will come with age. He has pretty good handle and a soft touch, so you could always give him some time at the 3 spot. Picture this kid running with Granger, Dunleavy, and Tinsley. Could but fun to watch. Could develop into a poor man’s Chris Bosh

12. Sacramento Kings - Russell Westbrook (PG/SG - UCLA)

The Kings need a point guard bad. And although some would argue that Russell Westbrook isn’t a true point guard, who says the Kings system requires one? Coupling Westbrook with Kevin Martin in the backcourt creates a ton of match up problems for the opposition. With Artest at SF it makes it even more difficult so this makes sense to me.

13. Portland Trailblazers - Donte Green (SF - Syracuse)
Wow, so this just seems unfair that the Blazers get another high pick! In 3-4 years this team will be scary good! Think of a lineup of Oden, Aldridge, Green, Webster, and Roy!

14. Golden State Warriors - JaVale McGee ( C - Nevada)

Golden State is a finely tuned offensive machine. McGee could contribute on the glass, and has excellent timing on his shot blocking ability. Although skeptics knock his shot-selection, I don't think it will bother the Warriors!

Should I stay or should I go now?

Time to talk some NBA Draft and my thoughts on who should stay and who should leave. (This isn't a prediction on who will leave and stay, it's what I think they should do).

Let's start with the national champions:

Kansas Jayhawks
Brandon Rush
Rush was solid this season, he showed that his injury didn't slow him one bit. He improved his slashing ability that many draft experts we're saying was his big weakness. He has great size for an NBA SG. Plus, he won a national title. He's a lock for the first round.
Decision: Leave

Darrell Arthur
Arthur has a boat load of potential and the sky is pretty much the limit for this kid. He needs to bulk up a little bit more to become a good NBA player. Must also improve his FT shooting and his foul trouble.
Decision: Leave

Mario Chalmers
Chalmers' stock rose after the championship game. He's a pretty inconsistent scorer and he still needs to truly prove he can be an everyday PG in the NBA.
Decision: Stay

Memphis Tigers
Chris Douglas-Roberts
He came back to win a title and he fell one game short. Will that make him yearn for more? Roberts has all the intangibles of an NBA player. He can slash and shoot and he's very versatile.
Decision: Leave

Derrick Rose
He was the best PG in the country this past season. He can do everything. He is a more natural scorer than most PGs. He reminds me a lot of Chris Paul with more size. Has tremendous strength but he still needs to become a more consistent shooter. Could be number one pick.
Decision: Leave

UCLA Bruins
Kevin Love
Love is a tremendous player. He can pass and shoot from anywhere. He is slow on his feet and his weight could slow him down the first few years in the NBA.
Decision: Leave

Darren Collison
Collison was another player who came back to win a title, but came up empty handed. Collision is quick and has good handles but he lacks strength. Size isn't a plus either.
Decision: Stay

Josh Shipp
Shipp was great at the beginning of the season but he started to wear off and lose his touch towards the end. He can be a great shooter at times but at other times it can be ugly.
Decision: Stay

Russell Westbrook
Westbrook really improved his stock over the season. He is an absolute great defender and because of it he could be a top 10 pick. He also showed he can score but who really knows about that at the next level.
Decision: Stay

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute
Luc was close to leaving last season. He was injured this year which will likely keep him back again. He is a pretty good rebounder and a decent shooter for his size. Should think twice about his injury.
Decision: Stay

North Carolina Tar Heels
Tyler Hansbrough
Tyler is a great college player, but who knows how he'll be in the NBA. He is strong, physical, and has a great work ethic.
Decision: Stay

Tywon Lawson
Lawson's stock has dropped ever since his injury. There is no doubt he can be an NBA PG, he is so fast, great in transition, can score, and dish the rock. But will his injury make some scouts and GMs think twice?
Decision: Stay

Wayne Ellington
Ellington is a pure shooter and will be a great NBA SG. But he is too one-dimensional. He needs to work on his driving ability and defense as well.
Decision: Stay

Texas Longhorns
D.J. Augustin
Augustin may be a good NBA player, he can shoot, drive, and also dish. But, not many 6' point guards make it in the NBA.
Decision: Stay

Arizona
Jerryd Bayless
Bayless could be a top 5 pick. Can be inconsistent at times, needs to establish himself as a true PG. He can no doubt score, but he needs to learn how to dish and become a complete player.

Decision: Leave

Chase Budinger
He is very athletic. Needs to become a better defensive player, he lacks quickness and his rebounding is weak.
Decision: Stay

Louisville
Earl Clark
He has tremendous upside and the sky's the limit for his potential. He needs to get a little stronger. He is a little raw still. His versatility will work well in the league. Could use one more college year.
Decision: Stay

Derrick Caracter
He doesn't always put in the effort, but when he does he's a force inside and on the boards. He lacks discipline, which may be enough for everyone to pass up on him.
Decision: Stay

Terrence Williams
He is very strong and athletic, but his size could make him a lower 2nd round pick.
Decision: Stay

Others
Michael Beasley, KSU- Leave
O.J. Mayo, USC- Leave
Brook Lopez, Stanford- Leave
Anthony Randolph, LSU- Leave
DeAndre Jordan, Texas A&M- Stay
Robin Lopez, Stanford- Stay
Eric Gordon, Indiana- Leave
Taj Gibson, USC- Stay

Top 5 Rookie peformers in the NBA So Far

Here are a look at the top 5 picks in the NBA Draft last year:

#1 Greg Oden - Portland Trailblazers
Key Stats: N/A - out for the year

#2 Kevin Durant - Seattle Supersonics

Key Stats: 19.3 points 4.2 rebounds 1.14 blocks.

#3 Al Horford - Atlanta Hawks

Key Stats: 8.9 points 9.7 rebounds 1.12 blocks.

#4 Mike Conley Jr. - Memphis Grizzlies
Key Stats: 8.7 points 5.0 assists in 26 minutes.

#5 Jeff Green - Seattle Supersonics

Key Stats: 9 points 4.8 rebounds.

My Top 5 Thus Far:
#1 Kevin Durant - Seattle Supersonics

WOW. While the Sonics have flopped this year Durant has been a definite bright spot! Durant's biggest criticism coming out of college was that he was too lanky, and needed to put on more weight. While this might effect his rebounding ability, his long arms and freakish wingspan have made him difficult to guard on the offense end and have allowed him to block more than a shot a game. He's already averaging nearly 20 points a night as a rookie, expect his game to really flourish in the next 2-3 seasons. Remember he is only 19, as his game and body develop, we are looking at a guy who will eventually be averaging 25+ points, 6-7 rebounds. His game reminds me a little of a taller more athletic Allen Iverson....that's a good thing. This kid is going to be around for a long time!

#2 Yi Jilian - Milwaukee Bucks

I'm not going to lie, I didn't like this pick for the Bucks at all when it happened. However, Yi continues to surprise me with his overall talent level, and as good as Al Horford is, I think Yi would have been a better pick for the Hawks. Yi's got more upside as a scorer, and probably projects better as a shot-blocker, too. Being as he's had to adjust to the American game and culture (unlike Al) suggests that when he figures it out, he'll stand alongside Durant as one of the top two rookies of this class (Greg Oden considered a rookie next season).

#3 Al Horford - Atlanta Hawks

He's real helped to breathe some life into the franchise and he's got them sitting around .500 which is quite an accomplishment. He's had a fine rookie season, already playing big minutes and contributing nearly a double- double a night. He has room to improve and although he's not a prolific scorer he moves great without the ball and has established him down in the paint. and he's a great rebounder He's also a lot quicker than I thought he was.

#4 Sean Williams - NJ Nets

Williams still has a lot of growing to do offensively, but he has a nice turnaround jumper from the block and he can finish strong drives with his left hand. This shows in my mind that he has a solid scoring foundation, and the fact that he has these moves suggests he is not as raw as people think. When I watch Williams, I see a young man who is always around the ball and the rim, keeping balls alive and creating opportunities for teammates and He's one of the fastest guys I've ever seen, in terms of his recovery speed as a basketball player. Overall I'm very pleasantly surprised by when I've seen from Mr. Williams and I think he is on his way to becoming a very good player.

#5 Jamario Moon - Toronto Raptors
This guy is a hustler. He works so hard and is only just starting to get some of the recognition that he deserves. He had a 19-game shot-blocking streak in December and in my opinion Moon has the size, agility and length to be a very good defensive stopper. Right now he might lack the strength to defend some of the league's stronger guards and wings. With his high-energy hustling play I think he has to be accounted for on both ends of the floor.

Who's Hot, Who's Not

The Sports Flow has added a new topic to it's blog, titled: "Hot or Not". I (Stefan or even Joe) will be giving you a "Hot or Not" list once a week; and to help us out you can suggest some athletes or teams, for that matter, of your own who have been on a hot streak. Leave your suggestions here if you'd like for future reference: thesportsflow@hotmail.com

Hot
Seattle Mariners
The M's have won 10 of their last 11 games and are currently on an 8 game winning streak. Seattle is catching up and starting to give the Angels a run for their money in the AL West. Also, how about sweeping the majors best Boston Red Sox to go along with the streak.

Chone Figgins
Figgins had at least one hit in 24 of 25 games in the month of June, 51 altogether; not bad at all...

Dario Franchilli
Franchilli has 8 straight top finishes to go with his 3 victories. The reigning Indy 500 champ was dominant for the second week in a row, leading all but eight laps Saturday night - a series record - to win at Richmond International Raceway.

Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers made a wise choice with their number one pick selecting Greg Oden and also got late round steals in Rudy Fernandez and Petteri Koponen. Josh McRoberts is a good pick in the 2nd round as well. Even with trading Zach Randolph, they saved about an estimated $30 million in salaries.

Not

Tampa Bay Devils Rays

The D-Rays have lost 14 of their last 18 and are currently on a season high 7 game losing skid. Tampa Bay hasn't helped their pitchers cause with the lack of run support. Plus, it doesn't help at all with B.J. Upton being banged up.

Morgan Ensberg

In the month of June Ensberg was 7 for 47 and recorded a hit in only 6 of 18 games. Ensberg has seen less and less playing time after the recent quality play of Mike Lamb.

Aric Amirola
After leading the Busch series race last Saturday (and technically winning) Amirola was pulled after teammate Denny Hamlin showed up late and took the checkered flag. Almirola drove the car in practice and qualified it on the pole, but was never supposed to drive it.

Charlotte Bobcats

I completely agree with Stephen A. Smith and incompletely agree with Complete Sports on the Bobcats draft. This team is trying to rebuild, and they send a stud versatile forward in Brandan Wright to Golden St. for Jason Richardson? Wright may be a few years away, but he has great upside, he played just up the road at Chapel Hill under Roy Williams and once his weight catches up to him, he'll be a great player. In my eyes, Wright is a great talent to build around. J-Rich is an overplayed player and wasn't even the best player on the Warriors. He played for himself and was pretty inconsistent at times; he is not a franchise player. This move will cost Charlotte a ton of money and will pay for it.

My NBA Draft Winners and Losers

WINNERS

Portland Trailblazers

So obviously they are huge winners in getting Oden but they really took it a step further. I absolutely love the deal they swung with the Knicks sending Zack Randolph out East for Steve Francis (once dubbed "Franchise") and Channing Frye. Francis will start at PG while Frye adds depth to the front court. Even though Randolph is a great player he was going to get logjammed with Aldridge and Oden so that was a great move. Portland's starting 5 will be young and tremendous next year and for years to come. This is what I'm looking at for their starting 5: Francis, Roy, Aldridge, Oden, and maybe Frye or Jack. Plus they'll have great youth on the bench with (like I said either Frye or Jack) plus Rudy Fernandez (like him), Taurian Green, and McRoberts. Basically I want to know if it is too late to be a Trailblazers fan?

Seattle Super Sonics

Once again they would be winners for the sole fact of just getting Durant. However, they got much much more. How they were able to ditch an aging and overpaid star in Ray Allen for Jeff Green, Wally Szerbiak, and Delante West is news to me. Durant and Green will be a great 1-2 punch and I think both will be stars. They've got a young, developing duo in Robert Swift and Chris Wilcox in the paint. Hopefully Green and Durant can get out in front and help Luke Ridnour push the tempo. Now that is an exciting team! There's going to be a lot of young and exciting things happening in the Pacific Northwest over the next 5 years as far as the NBA is concerned.

Minnesota Twolves

I think Brewer will wind up being the bets of the Florida bunch. I really wanted the Bucks to get him. He's going to be good. Now they need to figure out what they're going to do with KG... but for now they're winners.

Atlanta Hawks

Obviously it's tough to be a loser when you have the 3rd and 11th picks. I wasn't real high on the Hawks' picks but I thought they came out winners. Horford is a great player and would be a great pick for anyone at 3. The problem is that due to recent picks (Sheldon Williams and Josh Smith) the Hawks have a bit of a logjam. I also think Acie Law is a solid player, but won’t produce the same in the NBA as he did in college. If I’m the Hawks, I would have drafted Mike Conley Jr. at 3 -because they really need a solid PG-and Julian Wright at 11. Then I would play uptempo, like the Suns, and try to win the weak East by playing faster than everyone else.

LOSERS

Boston Celtics

Where to start... You are losers for losing so much last season. You are losers for not getting the first pick in the draft. For some reason you threw away the 5th pick in Jeff Green (a player who I think will be a star) and some fairly decent spare parts away for an aging and overpaid Ray Allen. You need to be building for the future. While Paul Pierce and Ray Allen are an above average duo they are not the long-term answer. Good luck making the playoffs next year. Terrible draft.

Milwaukee Bucks

I'm ranking my Bucks as losers because I am a pessimist. I wanted the Bucks to address young talent at the 1 and the 3....instead they went with a 7footer. Yi might end up being great who knows? But, I didn't want them to take him. It's high risk and high reward. Now I find myself wondering what they're going to do. Yi's representatives are saying that he won't play in Milwaukee and will try to force a trade. The Bucks know it's an uphill battle, but felt he was the best talent left on the board and say they want to keep him. If they can find a way to keep him around and if he starts then they probably have Bogut, Villanueva, and Yi all in their starting 5. They'd certainly be tall I guess!

Philadelphia 76ers

Their draft sucked. Thaddeus Young is a ways from being NBA ready. The kid from Finland looked terrible and the announcers were even saying that he'll probably continue to play overseas for a while. Basically all they got was Josh Smith and even though he's 7'0 I'm not sold on him at all.

Chicago Bulls

Their draft wasn't bad. I'm about 50/50 on it. I think they are draft day losers for one reason and one reason only: They took Joakim Noah with their 1st pick. I never once thought that he was top10 pick material. He brings energy (screams like a retard) and knows how to win but I dont' really think he's that good and the Bulls need low post scoring. - Noah is not that.

Questions, comments and criticisms are welcome. Add a winner or a loser of your own.

Revised 2007 NBA Mock Draft

Here's my revised 2007 NBA Mock Draft. After the draft deadline and workouts, I have some changes from my last Mock Draft.

1. Portland Trail Blazers- Greg Oden, Ohio St.
Please Portland, take Oden. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to take a player with this caliber. Big men like this are hard to come by these days and believe me, he won't disappoint. It would be smart to take him over Kevin Durant.

2. Seattle Sonics- Kevin Durant, Texas
I bet the Sonics were jumping out of their pants when they heard they had the 2nd pick. Rashard Lewis will not be around anymore and Durant will be able to take his place immediately. He is a franchise type player and once he puts on some mass, he'll be an all star.

3. Atlanta Hawks- Al Horford, Florida

I am giving in. I decided to move up Horford a few spots. The Hawks will not waste another pick in drafting another versatile forward that they're loaded with already. The Hawks have many options here... they could use a PG in Mike Conley Jr. but I don't believe they will go that way with this high of a pick. Horford has been very impressive during the draft workouts and the Hawks need a post presence now.

4. Memphis Grizzlies- Yi Jianlian, China
The Grizz need another post presence to compliment Pau Gasol. Yi can play all over the floor as well. He can take you inside or step out and hit a 20' foot jumper. He has great ball handling skills and is very light on his feet for a 7' footer. Here's an older post I did on him in case you want to know more about him: So, just who is Yi Jianlian?

5. Boston Celtics- Corey Brewer, Florida
Boston is still a pretty young team. They need another defender and scorer and Brewer brings that to the table. Brewer showed his last 2 years of college ball that he is a force on both ends of the court and Danny Ainge will not look past that. But don't be surprised if the Celtics trade this pick either.

6. Milwaukee Bucks- Brandan Wright, UNC

After weighing in at a slim 200 pounds, teams are wondering how long it will take for Wright's body to catch up to his amazing talent. A lot may argue that the Bucks will pick a big man but they still have Andrew Bogut and Charlie Villaneuva; and at the SF position they have oldies in Charlie Bell and Ruben Patterson. Wright would fit in well for Milwaukee.

7. Minnesota T'Wolves- Mike Conley Jr., Ohio St.
The Wolves have desperately needed a PG over the years and now is their chance to get a great one. Conley is what you like to see in a PG... he thinks pass first, sees the court so well, and can get to basket whenever he needs too. Him and Garnett (if he isn't traded) could make a great tandem.

8. Charlotte Bobcats- Jeff Green, Georgetown

Green falls down a few notches after moving up Horford. Green is a type of player that can contribute right away. He has the skills and attributes of an NBA player and I feel he is ready. Gerald Wallace is set for free agency and Green will be able to fill in for him.

9. Chicago Bulls- Joakim Noah, Florida
The Bulls haven't been satisfied with Ben Wallace, and P.J. Brown will be retiring soon. This is a great opportunity for them to get a big man that will take them to the next level, and help out the great young talent they already have in Kirk Hinrich, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, and Tyrus Thomas.

10. Sacramento Kings- Julian Wright, Kansas
The Kings are in a rebuilding mode and could use Wright's athletic talent and potential. He is very unselfish which will make Mike Bibby and Ron Artest happy (if they both stay). Wright has a lot of strengths and will bring a lot to this organization.

11. Atlanta Hawks- Acie Law, Texas A&M

This is where I think the Hawks need to address their PG problems. I think the Hawks will make a long hard decision between Law and Javaris Crittenton (Complete Sports thinks it will be Crittenton). Both great overall PG's, but Law's experience playing 4 years at College Station and his leadership will be the main reasons the Hawks will take him.

12. Philadelphia 76ers- Al Thornton, FSU
This is where the Sixers will take the best available. Thornton could benefit a lot from playing behind a player like Andre Igoudala and his one on one skills are what the Sixers want in a forward.

13. New Orleans Hornets- Nick Young, USC
The Hornets could use a SG/SF and Young would probably be the best available at those positions. Young would be a great scorer to have off the bench. His athletic ability is tough to pass up on as well.

14. Los Angeles Clippers- Javaris Crittenton, Georgia Tech

The Clippers need a point guard badly. Sam Cassell is a year away from retirement and you can't rely on the health of Shaun Livingston. Crittenton has tons of talent and he is your typical NBA prototype PG.

15. Detroit Pistons- Spencer Hawes, Washington

The Pistons will need another big man sooner or later. So now is a great time to get a great talent in Spencer Hawes. I think Hawes could contribute right away. His passing ability and smart play fit in greatly in Detroit.

College Hoops Talk

Brandon Rush withdraws name from Draft

The KU star decided to stay for his junior season after withdrawing his name from the NBA Draft Friday.

Even though I usually enjoy seeing college players return instead of jumping early, I am quite disappointed. It's always good for the college game, but I am a Missouri Tigers fan and I hate to see a KU player return to an already stacked Jayhawk team. Especially since his brother, Kareem, starred at Mizzou.

But personally, I'd have to say it was a smart decision. I am sure he really thought about it hard and talked it over with his two brothers. I am sure he doesn't want to make the same mistake they did, especially Ja'Ron. Kareem had a solid 2-3 years but is currently no where to be found.

I give credit to B. Rush for making a wise decision to stay, I just wish other college players would realize the NBA will always be there; I know I am not alone when I say this because the college game is simply just better, more entertaining and intense to watch.

Check out Jason Whitlock's recent column on Rush: This can be good for you, Brandon

Three Point Line Pushed Back

The NCAA on Friday approved moving the men's three-point line back 1 foot in 2008; from 19 feet, 9 inches to 20 feet, 9 inches.

The decision by the Playing Rules Oversight Panel marks the first major alteration to the three-point shot since its adoption in 1986-87.

The men's basketball rules committee recommended the measure May 3.

I'm not going to lie but I'm not a guy who is really into change at all, but I think this will improve the college game. It will space things out more everywhere; the lane will be opened a little more and it won't be as congested.

Plus, we will see a little more of the real three point shooters. Some shooters won't be as tempted to shoot the long range shot. I really hate seeing big guys shooting three pointers. I remember watching games where it was three after three after three.

We'll get to see a little more of everything. Also, it looks like we'll see a lot more zone defense as well. Believe me, it won't just be the offensive side that will be changed drastically here.

But overall, I am with the majority of the fans and media, It shouldn't be a shot where teams average over 33%. It should be a much tougher shot, and taken less frequently.

2007 NBA Mock Draft

Here's The Sports Flow's 2007 NBA Mock Draft:

1. Portland Trail Blazers- Greg Oden, Ohio St.

Please Portland, take Oden. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to take a player with this caliber. Big men like this are hard to come by these days and believe me, he won't disappoint. It would be smart to take him over Kevin Durant.

2. Seattle Sonics- Kevin Durant, Texas

I bet the Sonics were jumping out of their pants when they heard they had the 2nd pick. It looks like Rashard Lewis will not be sticking around much longer and Durant will be able to take his place. He is a franchise type player and once he puts on some mass, he'll be an all star.

3. Atlanta Hawks- Brandan Wright, UNC

The Hawks have many options here... they could use a PG in Mike Conley Jr. but I don't believe they will go that way with this high of a pick. They could use a center in Al Horford or Yi Jianlian as well. But I don't think they can pass on Wright even though they already have some good forwards. They seem to draft a forward every year so why not again?

4. Memphis Grizzlies- Yi Jianlian, China

The Grizz need another post presence to compliment Pau Gasol. Yi can play all over the floor as well. He can take you inside or step out and hit a 20' foot jumper. He has great ball handling skills and is very light on his feet for a 7' footer.

5. Boston Celtics- Corey Brewer, Florida

Boston is still a pretty young team. They need another defender and scorer and Brewer brings that to the table. Brewer showed his last 2 years of college ball that he is a force on both ends of the court and Danny Ainge will not look past that.

6. Milwaukee Bucks- Jeff Green, G-Town

Green is a type of player that can contribute right away. He has the skills and attributes of an NBA player and I feel he is ready. A lot may argue that the Bucks will pick a big man but they still have Andrew Bogut and Charlie Villaneuva; and at the SF position they have oldies in Charlie Bell and Ruben Patterson. Green would be a great fit in Milwaukee.

7. Minnesota T'Wolves- Mike Conley Jr., Ohio St.

The Wolves have desperately needed a PG over the years and now is their chance to get a great one. Conley is what you like to see in a PG... he thinks pass first, sees the court so well, and can get to basket whenever he needs too. Him and Garnett could make a great tandem.

8. Charlotte Bobcats- Al Horford, Florida

I do not like having Horford this low but I believe these other teams are more focused on fulfilling their needs before taking the best talent out there. Well, unless, your name is Greg Oden or Kevin Durant. But the draft is about a month away and I may reconsider but I think the Bobcats could use another big man and won't pass on Horford obviously if he is still available.

9. Chicago Bulls- Joakim Noah, Florida

The Bulls haven't been satisfied with Ben Wallace, and P.J. Brown will be retiring soon. This is a great opportunity for them to get a big man that will take them to the next level, and help out the great young talent they already have in Kirk Hinrich, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, and Tyrus Thomas.

10. Sacramento Kings- Julian Wright, Kansas

The Kings are in a rebuilding mode and could use Wright's athletic talent and potential. He is very unselfish which will make Mike Bibby and Ron Artest happy. Wright has a lot of strengths and will bring a lot to this organization.

11. Atlanta Hawks- Spencer Hawes, Washington

This is where I think the Hawks will address their post problems. They still need a PG, but I think Hawes could contribute right away. His passing ability and smart play is what the Hawks need.

12. Philadelphia 76ers- Al Thornton, FSU

This is where the Sixers will take the best available. Thornton could benefit a lot from playing behind a player like Andre Igoudala and his one on one skills are what the Sixers want in a forward.

13. New Orleans Hornets- Nick Young, USC

The Hornets could use a SG/SF and Young would probably be the best available at those positions. Young would be a great scorer to have off the bench. His athletic ability is tough to pass up on as well.

14. Los Angeles Clippers- Thaddeus Young, G-Tech

The Clips could use an athletic forward in Young. He is capable of becoming a great scorer and can hit from the outside. But it will take sometime, probably a few years to mold him into a true NBA player.

15. Detroit Pistons- Jason Smith, CSU
The Pistons will need another big man sooner or later. So now is a great time to get a great talent in Jason Smith out of CSU. Smith has great technique and mechanics for a post player, kind of similar to Rasheed Wallace. Detroit should like that.

My World in Sports: A Little bit of Everything

There's a lot going on in the world of sports right now. I'm going to give you my opinions on what I find worth giving them on. Don't like them? Leave a comment, and then I'll see if it's worth thinking about or not.

King James = Cowardly James ?
I honestly think this is so stupid that people are talking about this so much. Sure LeBron has the knack on him that he doesn't like to take the last shot or whatever, that's fine to think that and have that predetermined notion of him. However, this is absolutely positively not to be included in that. He passed to a wide open teammate in Donyell Marshall in the corner. That is exactly what he is supposed to do, and as far as the other superstar players in the league they should take some notes. This is extremely commendable for multiple reasons: 1. It's incredibly unselfish, 2. Marshall is WIDE OPEN!, 3. Marshall is hot, having made probably 5 shots just like that to bury the Nets earlier in the week why the hell not give him the ball if he's so open, and 4. it shows a lot of maturity in James. I think he did exactly what he should have done and exactly what a lot of superstar players in this league fail to do. So drop it. I don't wanna hear about this on ESPN anymore.

The NFL's Character Issues
There was the big deal with Pacman and Henry a month or so ago and I love Roger Goodell and now it looks like he might have a few more decisions to make. Because this offseason has made it blatantly obvious that the NFL has a few issues off the field. The Bengals dropped AJ Nicholson on the day of his court date....think anyone will take a risk and pick him up? I think I probably would, but not for much. Also the Broncos and Jets have put themselves on the Board recently each with 1 arrest apiece. However, the biggest deal for me on this one is the Vick thing. His whole "I'm just here to win football games, people will love me no matter what I do blah blah blah" thing kind of bugs me. I'm not one of the PETA-type people or anything but I hope he goes down for the dogfighting thing if these allegations really are true, which I strongly believe they are. He's a role model and look, he's had his chances (think water bottle at the airport). I hope Goodell continues to rule with the iron fist.

NBA Lottery Tonight
I think it's a really fun way to do it but a really unfair way to do it. Any questions revert to this post. I just think it's a parity killer and money making machine. So, it has its pros and cons. I guess all I can do is hope that the Bucks get Oden or Durant. I'm just not a huge fan of the NBA or their lottery draft. Some people might love it but I, personally, am a big fan of the whole worst team picks first type of deal but, oh well. It's kinda fun to watch.

Welcome To the Jungle We've Got Funny Tasting Water

Doesn't quite sound like Guns & Roses does it? It sounds more like a creative excuse to me but could be true I suppose. Foreman was the heavy favorite and heavyweight champion of the world at the time. But if this whole story really is true why is it coming out only now? That seems a little bit fishy to me. Is it the truth or a sort of lame excuse? Is Foreman trying to sell more copies of his book, get more attention, be a sore loser, or stir up some conspiracy theories? I don't really know we'll have to see if anything becomes of this. However, this whole thing has accomplished something. I never thought I would blog for even a minute on the sport of boxing. So I guess somebody can tell Foreman to drop it now.

The Big D picked to Rake in the Big D

Dallas won the sweepstakes for the 2011 Superbowl. It will be played a their new $1 billion stadium that will hopefully open in 2009. It won because it will be able to seat 100,000 fans. That's about 27,000 or so than the other finalists Indy or Zona. Which is smart I guess because I imagine that will probably gross maybe another $20 Million plus for the NFL right there. I have no problems with this. The stadium will be like brand new, make more money for the NFL, and have more fans at the biggest event of the NFL season. Why the hell not? Makes perfect sense to me. Now they just need to finish building the thing.

So, just who is Yi Jianlian?

You're part of the coaching staff of an NBA team, it's June 28 and you're on the clock, looking to make the third overall pick in the NBA Draft. Wondering, should we take one of the amazingly smooth forwards out of UNC, Florida, or Georgetown or try to steal a center? You quickly remember that multi-dimensional centers are hard to come by these days in this guard dominated league. You look down the list and see the name Yi Jianlian and decide to take a chance with it.

From my perspective, good choice! You may have never heard of Yi Jianlian before, but now you have. We may have the next Yao Ming on our hands.

While much work is ahead for Yi, he especially needs to gain upper-body strength and build on-court intensity, but he has gained the NBA's interest with his height and athleticism and is expected to be picked in the high rounds of June's draft.

Yi is easily China's best prospect for the NBA. His American style of playing sets him apart from other Chinese players.

Yi is a raw talent; he already has a great basketball build with long arms, all in a 7-1 frame. His greatest attribute is his incredible coordination and athleticism for a seven footer. He is a natural athlete. Unlike many 7 footers, Yi is very smooth and fluid and does not move awkwardly.

What sets Yi apart from other raw athletic big men is his soft touch. Like Chinese NBA players Wang Zhi Zhi and Yao Ming, Yi has a very good shooting touch. He has range out to 20 feet, and can hit the mid range jumper with much consistency.

Yi is a great talent and would be a solid number 3 pick. Milwaukee, Charlotte, Seattle, hell even Phoenix could use this guy. Just imagine the Suns with this guy for next year.

I believe Jianlian will make an immediate impact next season and could help fill a void for many teams. I think he is the real deal and years down the road we may have another Yao Ming.

Georgetown top team for next year?

Green eyeing return

Big East player of the year Jeff Green said Tuesday there is a "70-30" chance he will return to Georgetown for his senior season.

Green and fellow teammate Roy Hibbert both declared for the draft last week, but neither hired an agent.

Both players are potential lottery picks, and both said they want to get a good indicator of what their NBA value is and what it might be if they stay in school another year.

Hibbert said it's worth the wait to get picked top 3 in 2008 instead of 8-14 this year. He also said he is about 50-50 on the decision.

I am sure losing in the final four is another factor on leaning towards returning to school. If both Green and Hibbert return, the Hoyas will easily be number one and the favorite to win it all next season.

While I believe Green is a more NBA ready player, both also clarified they wouldn't want to be playing from the end of the bench.

I think both will return, especially if Green does Hibbert most likely will too. With the 4 studs of Florida, Kevin Durant, Gren Oden, Mike Conley, Daequan Cook, Aaron Afflalo, and Julian Wright all leaving early, Georgetown would definitely be the premier team in the nation with everybody returning.

After an interview with the Associated Press Green stated: "School is only going to be here four years. The NBA will be there forever. You can't just give up that. That's a big thought in this process. Either way, I'm going to come back and get my degree."

One of These Things Is Not Like the Other.

Let's be honest here, everyone has watched or watches Sesame Street at one point in there life. So let's play. On of these things is not like the other: NFL Draft, NHL Draft, MLB Draft, NBA Draft.

Ok, yea, it's the NBA Draft. I don't like it. The reason why: I like parity and the NBA Draft does not. The NBA Draft has a money-making machine called the Lottery which enables the NBA to get lots of pub, make more money, and destroy true parity in the league.

Rarely do the 2 worst teams get the top two picks...take a look:

2006 1. Toronto #5 2. Chi via NY #2
2005 1. Milwaukee #6 2. Atlanta #1
2004 1. Orlando #1 2. Charlotte #2
2003 1. Clevland #1 2. Det via Memphis #6
2002 1. Houston #5 2. Chicago #1
2001 1. Washington #3 2. LA Clip #8
2000 1. New Jersey #7 2. Vancouver #4
1999 1. Chicago #3 2. Vancouver #1
1998 1. LA Clips #3 2. Vancouver #4
1997 1. San Antonio #3 2. Philadelphia #5

Maybe the Bucks have a shot at Oden or Durant? --You really never know, which is kind of exciting but takes away parity from the NBA. I don't like it. I'm a firm believer in the worst team getting the first pick. What do you think?