– John Wall, 2013

A lone banner hangs like a question mark from the rafters inside the Verizon Center, reading ‘NBA World Champions 1977-78.’ When the starters shimmy and shake their way through introductions, few look up. Even fewer glance at the silhouetted banner; these moments are brief and unnoticed.

Four decades ago, the Washington Bullets were amongst the league’s elite, the only team to play in the NBA Finals four times in the 1970s. Since renaming the team in 1997 – you can count the number of playoff series victories the Wizards have won on a single finger. Since 1981-82 you can count it on two. Washington’s fandom continuously attempts to swallow pejorative commentary for a team that chokes its way through fourth quarters. Ascribe it to immaturity, the hapless story of the Washington Wizards.

Randy Whittman, head coach since 2012, hasn’t been to the playoffs in seven years of coaching. Just five players on his roster have. Naivety in the waning minutes has been Washington’s conundrum for years, exacerbated yet again this season.

Washington has garnered three Top 6 draft picks since ‘09, each armed with a prowess for scoring. Their roster averages 25 years of age, amongst the lowest in the NBA. Equipped with the league’s most latent backcourt, Washington’s perimeter can turn each possession into a pick-and-roll nightmare. Lack-of-talent can no longer be deemed the overarching-scapegoat.

The challenge of immaturity however, continuously reaffirms itself as Washington’s crux. Just three years ago, teammates Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton brought firearms into the Wizards’ locker room. Bradley Beal – who cannot even legally buy himself a drink yet – laces up his shoes nearby. The players may be gone, but the roots remain beneath him.

As Bleacher Report’s Bryant T. Jordan put it, “Washington’s problem isn’t lack of talent, it’s lack of professionalism.” Showcased again this year, Washington (4-8) has outscored their opponent just three times in the fourth quarter this season. Once was after Miami pulled their starters for the final nine minutes.

Closely contested games have eaten the Wizards this year, a trend proven by three decades of just falling short. 10 games have been decided by 11 points or less. Turnovers, blown assignments, and lack of willpower are just a handful of symptoms Whittman has attributed. Immaturity has raised its head in many forms, and while addressed behind a podium, remains stagnantly addressed on-court.

Washington faces a division including two teams that have yet to miss the playoffs in seven years (Miami/Atlanta). They’re marred by the heartache of final-minute-combustions, injury-riddled-stretches, and years of lukewarm efficiency. Mental fortitude continues to stand between Washington and their first playoff appearance in six years.

Only the Wizards can decide if they’re mature enough to win in crunch time. Washington’s youthfulness is the inexorable ghost, the haunt that keeps their lone banner and playoff hopes in shadows.

If you hype something and it succeeds,
you’re a genius – it wasn’t a hype. If you
hype it and it fails, then it was just a hype.
-Neil Bogart

CHICAGO — A matchup two years in the making proved more ragged than explosive. The juxtaposition of two all-star point guards trying to spark flint in a game both cities wanted if just to feel something catch and burn for a night, resulted in a sloppy – and at times lackadaisical – demonstration of a faux showdown. Turns out, Chicago was the better team Monday – and Derrick Rose wasn’t necessarily the catalyst. Lead down the stretch by Carlos Boozer and Mike Dunleavy Jr. who combined for 33 points on 65 percent shooting, the Bulls pulled away from the Cavaliers late, 96-81 on Monday night.

Carlos Boozer continued his display of methodic fade-away jumpers, pivoting lay-ins, and fourth quarter masochistic screams en route to his fifth game this season shooting above 56 percent from the field (only shot above that percentage twice in his career, so let’s all just wait for Carlos to be…Carlos sometime soon). The hyper-dispersed offensive production can found in the stat line, with each of Chicago’s starters in double-figures for points. Derrick Rose play didn’t exceed expectations but it was enough to keep Cleveland at bay and Chicago in the half-court preying on the Cavaliers’ 18 turnovers (most this season).

Rose also had BY FAR his best game defensively, holding Irving to a 0-6 start from the field and forcing countless turnovers and fast breaks with his lateral stability and improved positioning in Tom Thibodeau’s defensive system. DRose did leave late in the game however, as a result of a “minor sprain…nothing really bad.” Hopefully this is more truth than optimistic outlook from the Bulls training staff.

Kirk Hinrich and Luol Deng played like men ready to head out of town at season’s end, after a wretched 22 percent combined shooting night from the two veterans. This doesn’t even indicate how poorly Hinrich was defensively, particularly in the half-court, refusing to stop Irving or Dion Waiters when prompted. Both will have to pick up their play if they want the Bulls to re-sign them at the end of the year.

Andrew Bynum played with shades of the fortress Cleveland desired when they signed the 7-footer, frustrating Joakim Noah and producing reasonable numbers considering restricted minutes (21) – finishing with 11 points and 6 rebounds.

Tristan Thompson also had a balanced game – relentlessly driving and overwhelming the defensive liability that is Carolos Boozer – finishing with 14 points and 13 rebounds (5^th double-double this year). However it was the dawdling start of Kyrie Irving that kept most of those salivating before tip dry throughout the entire first half. Scoring just two points in the first twenty-four minutes, Irving brought the game within catching distance in the fourth quarter before Chicago counteracted the surge.

Game Ball: Mike Dunleavy Jr. As painful as his transparent skin appears on camera and any jump shot he takes inside of 23-feet, he found the bottom of the net when his team needed him most, connecting on a multitude of three-pointers and long jumpers throughout the fourth quarter when Chicago was struggling to hammer in the final nails of the proverbial coffin. We haven’t seen Mike Dunleavy Jr. that animated since:

Although he and Kirk Hinrich were arguably the worst defenders on the court Monday night, caught flat-footed on a variety of occasions, his offensive game and team interlocking took a significant step forward as he embraced the bright lights for the first time in his new city.

Josh Planos
Contributor @ Sportswunderkin | Contractor @ Tomorrow’s Online Marketing |
| Intern @ Rivals.com |
| Email: [email protected] |
| Follow me on Twitter: @jplanos |

Teague had another solid performance Monday night, scoring 15pts on 50% shooting from the floor, with 7asts.  For the love of god, somebody get Andrew Goudelock a contract.  Yes, it’s summer league but the guy is on a tare with a 2013 Summer League best 31pts Monday night.  If I’m Gar Forman, I have to be thinking a minimum level contract, just for a year to test Goudelock in Thib’s system.  He appears to play exceptionally well with Snell, Teague, and Murphy.

Tony Snell had a difficult night shooting (2-9), but showed a slashing mentality that is a carbon copy of what they’re expecting him to bring to the offense next year.  Hopefully he can raise his point total per game and develop his shot while facing tough competition in Las Vegas.  Erik Murphy didn’t look terrible!  18pts on 7-10 shooting is pretty ideal for the new big man, although the fact that he’s not capable of grabbing rebounds is a tad concerning.  Murphy didn’t look interested in the rim at all tonight, something his two total rebounds clearly dictate.

Chicago plays again Tuesday night against the Portland Trail Blazers, I’ll be looking for some storylines:

• Can Goudelock keep up his torrential pace?
• Can Teague continue to bring the Bulls balanced and valuable minutes?
• Can Snell shoot higher than 30% from the field?
• Will Erik Murphy learn how to rebound?

• Defensive Player of the Year (2011, 2010, 2009)
• All-NBA 1^st Team (2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008)
• All-NBA 3^rd Team (2013, 2007)
• All-Rookie 1^st Team (2005)
• All-Defensive 1^st Team (2012, 2011, 2010, 2009)
• All-Defensive 2^nd Team (2008)

…and yet he is continuously criticized and harped on for being a lazy teammate, uncommitted to the team(s) he has played for (according to his former coach at Orlando, Stan Van Gundy), and had his 17.1ppg 14.2rpg 2012-2013 season labeled as underachieving, by analysts across a variety of platforms.  In fact, for most of his accolade-rich 9-year stint in the league, Howard has had a pretty rough go of thing, most notably last season (his first in Los Angeles) with the Lakers.

Over the course of the past week, Howard has reacted in an obvious and predictable manner, he has exploited his current situation in a “where should I take my talents next season” marketing spectacle (nostalgic for anyone who remembers the mockery of LeBron James’ “decision” in 2010) that involves a multitude of suitors for the man who melded the comic book/athlete barrier when he was dubbed “Superman” after the 2008 Slam Dunk Competition.

Currently, Howard appears interested in 5 teams: The Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, and the Los Angeles Lakers.  Dwight Howard has repeatedly made it aware to the media that his first and foremost concern is winning, something Dwight knows very little of.  In his 9-year NBA career Dwight has been to the finals once and hasn’t won a playoff game since 2009.  Obviously, he craves whatever opportunity will get him closer to holding the Larry O’Brien trophy, which I believe lies in a sign-and-trade deal with the Golden State Warriors.  It’ll be interesting to see how committed Howard is to finding the best contender with the money situation being a clearly issue of concern, as Howard will most likely be looking for a max-contract wherever he chooses.

If Howard truly cares about having the best opportunities to win, this is the order he should have these teams ranked:

1. Golden State Warriors

Easily the most successful team in the league in terms of youth, Golden State would potentially pair Howard with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, providing the Warriors with the inside game they desperately needed against the Spurs in the 2013 NBA Playoffs.  However, this will be tricky to pull off as the Warriors lack the salary cap space that Howard will require.  This means that GM Bob Myers will have to decide whether or not he wants to keep his promising young talent in Andrew Bogut and Harrison Barnes, or send one, if not both to the Lakers.  Fret not Warrior fans; a Howard/Lee frontcourt would be amongst the most dominant in the league if they do decide to conduct a sign-and-trade, and if Golden State can keep Thompson out of the trade than they will really be in business come 2014.  If you’re Howard, you have to understand that Golden State has a far more enticing market than LA, not in terms of scope but in lack of athletic propaganda.  He’d be void of any overbearing pressure, be joining one of the youngest and most entertaining teams in basketball, and have the ability to maintain his role in a scheme that simply asks he overpower the lane offensively and block a few shots.  To me, this is the clear fit for Howard, but one that appears more unlikely by the day.

2. Houston Rockets

Houston has pulled everything short of James Harden’s contract to make room for Howard.  The Rockets released swingman Carlos Delfino and point guard Aaron Brooks on Sunday, clearing $5.5 million in preparation for the max-deal that Howard will undoubtedly ask for.  Houston is also looking to ship forward Thomas Robinson in hopes of not returning any salary, which would allow for the max-deal to take place.  Houston would be a great fit for Howard, as the Rockets were severely lacking any sort of interior presence on both the offensive and defensive ends, posting up on only 4 percent of their plays, a league low.  Paired with the impressive growth that newcomer Omer Asik made, starting all 82 games at center for the Rockets last year, would allow breaks for Howard and knowledge for Asik.  Honestly, all that’s missing for the Rockets to be contenders is Howard, but I find the offensive scheme to be limiting for the big man if he’s looking to put up the All-Star numbers he was accustomed to in Orlando.

3. Dallas Mavericks

Personally, if I’m Dwight Howard, I immediately go to Dallas for the free Raising Cane’s chicken fingers for life deal.  Mark Cuban would market Howard more than any other player on any other team, he’d immediately be embraced by a team that has a championship under it’s belt in the recent years, who craves another -and a Howard/Nowitzki pairing might be the recipe for success.  Picking up Shane Larkin and Ricky Ledo will add depth but Dallas needs Howard to replace the scoring drought that Mayo’s departure will surely leave in the team’s wake.  Howard appears interested but right now I’d rank the Mavericks third on Howard’s list.

4. Los Angeles Lakers

I feel like I’m taking crazy pills even writing this portion on LA.  How can Howard, a man who was thrown through the muck that is the LA media by not only analysts but teammates alike, considering a return to a team that also finds themselves in shambles.  These are just a few of the Lakers current problems:

• Kobe Bryant is coming off of the worst injury of his career, an injury that we just saw Derrick Rose take twice as long to return from as was expected.  Derick Rose is 24, Kobe Bryant is 34.
• Mike D’Antoni has been an awful coach since he won coach of the year in 2005, and provides little offensive framework for the Lakers to thrive on with even littler defensive strategy, hence the Lakers were bounced from 2013 NBA Playoffs in the first round for the first time since 2006 (SWEEP!!!).
• Steve Nash had his worst season in terms of scoring and assisting (his role) in 13 years, and called this season “the most frustrating of his 17-year career,” yet is begging Howard to return.  Well duh he is, Dwight!  Nash and the Lakers are doomed without the big man, but I’m not sure that him staying would change that.
•  The Lakers draft didn’t really help.  They picked up a stretch 4 in Ryan Kelly, who cannot rebound and won’t pair well with the offense.

A city that praised Superman and then tore the cape from his back should have no place in Howard’s mind.  Yet, the Lakers appear to be the front-runner for Howard…yikes.

5. Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks are in trouble.  Losing Josh Smith (possibly) to free agency, and picking up two Brazilian players who are unproven are a recipe for disaster.  However, the Hawks are determined to get back to the playoffs and have tapped Corey Brewer (yippee!!!) for a possible contract and are in the hunt for JJ Redick.  IF you’re Howard and you want to win, you bluntly cannot accept a deal with the Hawks.  A team that is falling apart, coming off an abysmal losing performance to the Pacers in the first round of the 2013 Playoffs, and undergoing the process of implementing a new head coach in Mike Budenholzer, the Hawks look destined for a sub .500 record.  If Howard wants to win, Atlanta isn’t the place to go.

Dwight Howard will most likely have his name enshrined in Springfield, MA one day.  He may find himself in the top 20 all-time in rebounds and blocks.  Hell, maybe even points -but if Dwight Howard wants a title by the time his career comes to a close than he should really think this decision over in the coming month.  We want Superman back, it’s time for Howard to take flight and jump ship.

With the exception of the 4^th quarter, the Miami Heat played a solid game, with LeBron obviously making his mark early in the series.  LeBron went off.  Picking up his second straight NBA Finals triple-double, the king had 18pts, 18rbs, and 10asts for a Heat team that looked as hesitant in the 4^th as any team in recent memory.  Wade had another respectable performance adding 17pts and some great defense on Ginobili throughout.  It is interesting to note that Miami throughout much of the 4^th without a true point guard on the floor, adopting a bigger lineup that proved lackluster in (obviously) setting up plays, leading to some errant shots from Bosh and Chalmers late.  Chris Bosh did have a more productive night but it came at a cost, shooting just 6-16 from the field (yeah LeBron only shot 7-16, but he also had a TRIPLE-DOUBLE) for 13pts, and missed a wide open three that could’ve cut the deficit to 2 late in the 4^th.  I was expecting more out of Norris Cole in terms of minutes, as he only had 17 to Chalmers’ 27, and that may be something Miami looks into when adjusting for Game 2.  Also, MIKE MILLER.  Miller, played a great game Friday night, with 5pts and 4asts in just 20 minutes of playing time, look for him to be a bigger factor throughout this series, possibly replacing Battier in a majority of Miami’s lineups.  Overall, Miami did win the rebounding battle (46-37) but stumbled down the stretch, looking hesitant on offense and taken out of sync by the relentless San Antonio defense.

How about the Spurs!?  Tony Parker continued his Playoff MVP candidacy Thursday night, hitting the most absurd game-sort-of-winning-shot in a long time:

Not only is Parker unfazed by LeBron guarding him (second in DPOY voting), but he works the clock down entirely like a champion knows how to do, nearly falls over, keeps his balance and dribble, pivots, and hits the most clutch shot of his career-it was beautiful.  If you haven’t been watching the NBA for the past decade and a half, you’ll want to know who Tim Duncan is.  The 37-year-old, playing in his 23^rd Finals game of an illustrious career, had 20pts and 14rbs after a nightmare 1^st quarter.  Duncan and Splitter both played great games, controlling the paint when necessary and overcoming a night that, by stats, should’ve belonged to Miami.  Did I mention that the Spurs are well coached?  Good lord, they had 4 turnovers all night!  Miami had 5 in the 4^th!  Look for Popovich to preach the rebounding game, as well as possibly use Blair (who didn’t play a single minute in Game 1) down low to counteract the Spurs smaller lineup that comes in when Duncan is off the floor.  Blair has provided some great minutes for San Antonio this year and plays a more physical game than Boris Diaw who, frankly, looked comical in a matchup with LeBron.  Danny Green will need to replicate his numbers from Game 1 as well, and how about Kawhi Leonard!  That kid is 21 years old!  Leonard provided some great defensive minutes for San Antonio and didn’t look fazed in the slightest to be playing in a Finals game during his rookie season.  Props, Kawhi.

Game 2 isn’t until Sunday.  Let’s see what Miami draws up to counteract the Spurs resounding Game 1 victory, because they’ll be damned if they’re going to lose home court.  For those preaching “Dallas in 2011 all over again,” I’m highly doubting that the Spurs have anyone (with the exception of Parker) who can manage the 27.7ppg Nowitzki put down in that series, meaning, that this series is far from over.

Let’s start with Athena.   The Spurs are governed by the best coach they’ve had since the team’s inception in 1967.  Gregg Popovich is a coaching demigod, who is now looking for his 5^th title in the last 14 years.  Before him they didn’t have a conference title, now they have five.  The reemergence of Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, and Manu Ginobili in the top tier of “big three” tandems in the NBA has reenergized and sparked San Antonio to its first Finals appearance since 2007.  And has it been fun to watch.  Tony Parker is playing like a man possessed right now: 23.0ppg, 7.2apg, and 48%fgp.  This, combined with the leadership and authority of Tim Duncan, the “Big Fundamental,” who has shut down overtime games throughout the playoff with his notorious 20ft jumper and ability to bang in the low blocks with the likes of the leagues best at the age of 37, has truly been remarkable to witness.  This team, for the most part, has been together for a while.  Parker has been alongside Tim Duncan since 2001, Ginobili had been with them since 2005, –and all of them have bought into Popovich’s system.  We’re even seeing Danny Green excel (43% from downtown) and Kawhi Leonard step into himself.  The Spurs must believe in their coach’s strategy, the same way they have all year, with Parker and Ginobili looking to penetrate and get Duncan, Splitter, Leonard, Green, and even Bonner the looks they need to knock down shots.  The glass will be crucial this series, I can’t reiterate that enough.  Miami has been astoundingly good this year on the boards, a true testament to the accusation of Birdman and Haslem’s resurgence over the past series.  Popovich deserves an incredible amount of respect for what he’s done this season all through discipline, San Antonio is the least foul-prone team in the NBA this postseason (average 2 fouls and turnovers less per game than Miami).  If San Antonio can be the wiser team, if they can exploit Miami’s lacking experience in close 4^th quarter games, and if they can control the machine that is LeBron James, they have a chance.

Ares the god of war can represent the brawn and relentless brutality that is the Miami Heat.  Miami isn’t playing games this post-season, you can feel how badly they want another title, to quiet the critics pestering them all season, to give Haslem a title to retire on, to set-up a potential three-peat next season.  Consequently, it would also be interesting to consider what LeBron James would look like in a primitive setting, with a sword and shield, chances are he’d probably be the best warrior.  LeBron took over the Indiana series, logging 32pts, 4asts, and 8rbs, in the onslaught of the Pacers in Game 7 on Monday night.  Boy did it look easy.  The rebounding performance of Dwayne Wade was critical for the Heat, as bickering over the 31-year-old’s health raged in the media beforehand.  Wade did exactly what the Heat needs him to replicate Thursday night, to attack.  There was a streak in Monday’s game where Wade either scored or assisted on 7 straight plays late in the third, Miami needs this to continue.  I see the matchup of LeBron on Danny Green being an easily exploitable facet of the game so I’m going to focus on the big men.  Chris Bosh needs to come back in a big way, only averaging 11.0ppg, 4.3rpg in the Conference Finals.  This man is 6’11, and he’s being outrebounded right now by a man 7 inches shorter than him (Wade is averaging 4.9rbg throughout the playoffs)!  I realize that a majority of Bosh’s game comes from his uncanny 20ft jumper, but Miami simply cannot rely on Haslem, Andersen, and James for rebounding support.  I was truly impressed with the effort Mike Miller put in the minimal minutes played throughout the Conference Finals.  Mike Miller is the man, it’s truly odd that nobody knows about him (Former Rookie of the Year, Former 6^th Man of the Year, etc..).  I’d like to see Miller come in to guard Danny Green, yes he lacks defensively but he can still guard Green, freeing up LeBron to either play down in the post.  Every single time Miami puts LeBron in the post, good things happen, take note Spoelstra.  LeBron is now at a point where his physicality rivals anyone in the NBA, they could put him on Duncan and he could limit his production for god’s sakes.  Norris Cole will be an important name in this series, faced with the horrifyingly daunting task of guarding Parker while running Miami’s offense, sort of.

Look for mythology to decide the 2013 NBA Finals starting Friday night.  Will it be strategy or physicality?  Only time will tell.

…but honestly, for the love of god can we get Tracy McGrady a basket or a dunk for old time’s sake?

Rejoice, as the NBA Draft is less than a month away! About a week ago, I mocked the lottery. But here is the first full, “Official” NBA Mock Draft!

First Round

1. Cleveland Cavaliers- Nerlens Noel, C, Kentucky

Chad Ford recently reported that the Cavs will consider Alex Len along with Porter, McLemore, and Noel for the number one pick… don’t buy it. Noel is number one unless some concrete info comes out.

2. Orlando Magic- Victor Oladipo, SG, Indiana

Every GM in this draft is in love with and wants Oladipo. The Magic will also consider Burke and McLemore, but Victor is the safest of all three.

3. Washington Wizards- Otto Porter, SF, Georgetown

Just a perfect fit next to John Wall and Brad Beal.

4. Charlotte Bobcats- Alex Len, C, Maryland

Byron Mullens is the Bobcats’ starting center… ‘nough said.

5. Phoenix Suns- Ben McLemore, SG, Kansas

Phoenix is ecstatic for arguably the most talented player in the draft who also happens to be a position of need fall to number 5.

6. New Orleans Pelicans- Trey Burke, PG, Michigan

Greivis Vasquez had a very good year, but Burke has a higher ceiling, and a co-existing backcourt of the two would be interesting.

7. Sacramento Kings- Michael Carter-Williams, PG, Syracuse

The Kings get to stay- so let’s draft them a player who will excite the fans with his passing and leadership.

8. Detroit Pistons- Anthony Bennett, F, UNLV

Is he a ‘tweener, or a stretch, small forward version of Paul Millsap? The latter would make Detroit a very talented, big team.

9. Minnesota Timberwolves- C.J. McCollum, SG, Lehigh

The T’Wolves have great building blocks, but have no one who can create their own shot. McCollum was one of the NCAA’s best at that the last 4 years.

10. Portland Trail Blazers- Rudy Gobert, C, France

The Blazers need to draft a big here, or Joel Freeland could end up seeing nearly 30 minutes a night next year. Gobert fits nicely as a rip protected next to the offensive Aldridge.

11. Philadelphia 76ers- Cody Zeller, C, Indiana

Zeller improved his stock at the combine by testing very well athletically, he could end up much higher than this if interviews go well.

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Toronto)- Gorgui Dieng, C, Louisville

Kendrick Perkins needs to go, and Dieng would be an excellent replacement. Gorgui was the defensive anchor for the best defensive team in college basketball the last two years, and his great size and athleticism should transfer well at the next level.

13. Dallas Mavericks- Steven Adams, C, Pittsburgh

Adams dominated the combine after a pedestrian freshman year at Pitt. Dallas is ancient in the frontcourt and needs to get younger, Steven provides exactly that.

14. Utah Jazz- Shabazz Muhammad, SF, UCLA

Utah has very little scoring from the wing, and Shabazz would be a nice inside-out combo with whichever big men stick around in Utah.

15. Milwaukee Bucks- Dennis Schroeder, PG, Germany

The speedy point guard supposedly received a top-20 promise at the combine. I think it’s either Dallas, Utah, or Milwaukee. The Bucks could very well be fed up with the inconsistent growth Brandon Jennings has shown, and it might be time to part ways.

16. Boston Celtics- Dario Saric, SF, Croatia

Some think Saric might be the best international player in the entire class. His 6’10” frame and ability to stretch the floor make him a player loaded with potential.

17. Atlanta Hawks- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG, Georgia

Kentavious has gunner written all over him. Let’s just hope he goes more of the J.R. Smith route rather than the Jordan Crawford way.

18. Atlanta Hawks (from Houston)- Sergey Karasev, SF, Russia

Karasev is a skinny 19 year old international prospect, which would lead many to believe that he’s very raw. Quite the contrary. Sergey plays 30 minutes a night for for team overseas, and is a polished scorer and passer. His potential isn’t quite as high as the other international prospects, but he should contribute right away.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Los Angeles)- Reggie Bullock, SG, North Carolina

When both Irving and Waiters were both injured last season, the Cavs had nobody who could create their own shot. Enter Bullock, a fantastic 3-point shooter whose frame and play style reminds me of Rip Hamilton a bit.

20. Chicago Bulls- Tim Hardaway Jr., SG, Michigan

After three up-and-down seasons at Michigan, Tim Jr. impressed scouts with the shooting clinic he put on. His play there likely solidified his status as a 1st-rounder.

21. Utah Jazz (from Golden State)- Shane Larkin, PG, Miami (Fl)

The Jazz currently have no point guards under contract for next season. Larkin probably isn’t the long-term answer, but he should provide valuable minutes at the point for many years.

22. Brooklyn Nets- Glen Rice Jr., SG, Rio Valley Grand Vipers

After being kicked out of Georgia Tech, Rice dominated the D-League this year with a combination of shooting and penetrating. Brooklyn could use an explosive scorer to come off the bench.

23. Indiana Pacers- Allen Crabbe, SG, Cal

The Pacers could always use more outside shooting, and Crabbe is one of the best available, after consistently hitting around 40% of his 3s in college.

24. New York Knicks- Tony Mitchell, F, North Texas

A highly touted prospect who had to enroll at UNT for academic reasons, Mitchell’s numbers fell from his awesome freshman year (57/44/74) to just 44/30/68 during his sophomore campaign. Hard to tell if the first year was a fluke, or if the second season was just a bad streak. What we do know is Mitchell is an athletic freak.

25. Los Angeles Clippers- Kelly Olynyk, C, Gonzaga

Olynyk’s stock is falling after he tested poorly at the combine, having just a 6’9” wingspan despite being 7’0”. Not a good sign. Kelly’s lack of length and explosiveness could be hidden if he was playing next to one of the two most athletically gifted big men in the NBA.

26. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Memphis)- Jeff Withey, C, Kansas

If Nikola Pekovic leaves, Minnesota definitely needs a big man. But even if he stays, they still need a defensive presence inside, as Pekovic and Love are offensive big men. Withey is a dynamic shot blocker and has the potential to be a good, 3rd big man for a long time.

27. Denver Nuggets- Giannis Antetokounmpo, F, Greece

A typical foreign, late-1st round prospect, Giannis is big on size and athleticism (was the primary ballhandler for his Greek team despite being 6’10”), but is extremely raw. He’s only player in Greek youth leagues. However, Denver is a team with great depth that could afford to take a developmental player. The biggest question about Antetokounmpo though is if his last name can fit on a jersey.

28. San Antonio Spurs- Mike Muscala, C/PF, Bucknell

Muscala is a fascinating player. He only attempted 67 threes in his four years of being a Bison, yet he absolutely crushed it from deep at the combine. There’s a spot for you on most teams when you’re a seven footer who can hit from behind the arc, as evidenced by a certain White Mamba on the Spurs. That’s why I like Muscala here- Matt Bonner is getting really old, and San Antonio needs a token big white dude who can hit threes.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder- Jamaal Franklin, SG, San Diego St.

For the second straight year, the Thunder get great value late in the 1st. Franklin is a late lottery talent, who isn’t a very good shooter, but is a great athlete and defender.

30. Phoenix Suns (from Miami)- C.J. Leslie, F, NC State

The Suns biggest need is guys who are good at basketball. C.J. Leslie is. In three years at NC State he consistently scored and played hard defense night in and night out. Leslie isn’t great at any one thing, but is good at many.

Second Round

31. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Magic)- Ricky Ledo, G/F, Providence

Cleveland took a proven player at 19 in Bullock, and now the complete opposite at 31. Ledo didn’t play a single game at Providence as he was partially inelligible. However, Ledo has phenomenal offensive talent and was a 5-star recruit. The Cavs can afford to gamble on this pick, and if it plays out, Waiters or Bullock become expendable.

32. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Bobcats)- Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil

If Perk is indeed amnestied, the Thunder’s biggest need will be depth. Nogueira is a super long, athletic foreign prospect who could go in the late first.

33. Cleveland Cavaliers- Livio Jean-Charles, F, France

Jean-Charles exploded onto the scene at the Nike Hoop Summit, and has been rising up draft boards ever since. Right now he’s too skinny (only 217 pounds on his 6’9” frame, 7’2” wingspan) and he isn’t a dynamic athlete, but he’s a smart player with lots of potential on both sides of the ball. Look for him to potentially shoot up into the first round.

34. Houston Rockets (from Suns)- Mouhammadou Jaiteh, C, France

Omer Asik might be trade bait, but even if he stays, the Rockets could use some more size. Jaiteh is a good offensive player, but has a ways to go on defense, despite his size (6’11”, 250 lbs) and length (7’4” wingspan).

35. Philadelphia 76ers (from Hornets)- James Southerland, SF, Syracuse

This Orange Alum does two things well; 3-point shooting and hard defense. That’ll be enough for him to be a rotational player in the league. Think Quincy Pondexter.

36. Sacramento Kings- Archie Goodwin, SG, Kentucky

Another 5 star prospect turned 2nd round draft pick, Goodwin struggled at Kentucky, with a split of just 44/27/64 and 3.1 turnover for every 2.7 assists. He really could have used another year, but apparently doesn’t want to compete with the incoming freshman. Loads of talent.

37. Washington Wizards- Deshaun Thomas, F, Ohio St

Thomas is a good complementary option for Washington for when Otto Porter comes out of the game, as Deshaun is the kind of player who looks to score first, contrary to Otto.

38. Detroit Pistons- Pierre Jackson, PG, Baylor

Detroit could lose Jose Calderon and Will Bynum this offseason, and Brandon Knight is more of a combo guard than a true point. Jackson could be a great spark plug off the bench, like Jose Barea, Nate Robinson or Leonardo Barbosa.

39. Portland Trailblazers (from T’Wolves)- Lorenzo Brown, PG, NC State

Despite only playing point guard the last two seasons at NC State (he was previously a shooting guard), Brown has shown great promise as a passer, averaging 6 and 7 assists in those two years respectively. His turnovers are a little high (3.5) but that’s to be expected for a brand new 6’5” point guard.

40. Portland Trailblazers- Jackie Carmichael, PF, Illinois State

Jackie would be an instant fan favorite in Portland, with his relentless hustle and solid back-to-the basket game. As I said earlier, Portland is crazy thin everywhere, but specifically the frontcourt. Carmichael provides good depth.

41. Memphis Grizzlies (from Raptors)- Isaiah Canaan, G, Murray St

If Jerryd Bayless walks in free agency, Canaan would be a good replacement. He isn’t a true point guard, but neither was Bayless, and he had a nice role as a gunner with them.

42. Philadelphia 76ers- Erick Green, G, Virginia Tech

Green had a breakout senior season for the Hokies, averaging 25 points on an efficient 17 shots. He’d be a nice combo guard behind Jrue Holiday, and could be similar to when Philly played Holiday and Lou Williams at the same time.

43. Milwaukee Bucks- Grant Jerrett, F, Arizona

A third 5 star prospect who left after his freshman season to be a likely 2nd rounder, Jerrett is a stretch forward, who shot an impressive 40% from downtown but a worrisome 41% from the field. The Bucks could use a big guy who can stretch the floor next to LARRY SANDERS!!!

44. Dallas Mavericks- Ray McCallum, PG, Detroit

Rodrigue Beaubois and Darren Collison aren’t guaranteed to be Mavericks next year (and neither is Chris Paul) so the Mavs should probably start getting some depth. McCallum played 3 good seasons for his dad at Detroit University, despite being a highly touted prospect.

45. Portland Trailblazers- James Ennis, SF, Long Beach St

Ennis is just good! He has prototypical size, is a good shooter and rangy defender. He likely will never be starter-caliber, but could be a great bench player on a title contender.

46. Utah Jazz- Ryan Kelly, PF, Duke

Even though he’s just a 3 point shooter, Kelly will find a team. All he’ll have to do in Utah is stand in the corner and jack up shots. That sounds like lots of fun.

47. Atlanta Hawks- Nate Wolters, PG, South Dakota St

Kyle Korver is a free agent, and not to sound like a broken record, but great 3 point shooters are at such a premium. The John Jenkins pick didn’t really work last year, so the Hawks are gonna try and see if the former Jackrabbit works.

48. Los Angeles Lakers- Kenny Kadji, PF/C, Miami (Fl)

Kadji was the best center athletically at the combine and the Lakers could really use some explosiveness at this spot. I’m trying to make it through this without saying his na- DWIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT AGHHHHHHHH. He’s totally gone.

49. Chicago Bulls-Dewayne Dedmon, C, USC

The Bulls really missed Omer Asik this year, especially since Joakim Noah always seems to be playing through some injury. Dedmon is a big body with a good interior presence, although very limited offensively.

50. Atlanta Hawks- Colton Iverson, C, Colorado St

C.I. is one of the biggest dudes in the draft, towering at a legit 7’ and 265 lbs. He’s a good post scorer, something Atlanta could use off the bench, but his defense is porous and he doesn’t do much else.

51. Orlando Magic- Andre Roberson, F, Colorado

Roberson is an intriguing prospect, because despite his 6’7” height, he was one of the NCAA’s rebounding leaders at over 11 a game. If you can grab lots of boards at one level, you can usually do it at any level. That being said, Roberson is only 205, so he doesn’t have a true position.

52. Minnesota Timberwolves- Bojan Dubljevic, PF/C, Montenegro

Dubljevic is in the mold of Kevin Love, as a 6’10” power forward who shoots it well from deep. With Love’s injury issues last year, the T-Wolves really missed that ability to stretch the floor. Bojan is apart of a deep international class.

53. Indiana Pacers- Trevor Mbakwe, PF/C, Minnesota

Mbakwe never quite lived up to his potential coming out of high school, but was still a productive player in college. He’s a little short (6’8”) but his 7’4” wingspan makes up for it. David West is an unrestricted free agent and Tyler Hansbrough is a restricted, so the Pacers could use some depth.

54. Washington Wizards- Erik Murphy, PF, Florida

Another great 3-point shooter, Murphy could go off the board as early as the 30s if a team really wants a big who can shoot it from deep. Range isn’t exactly a term you’d used to describe the tandem of Emeka Okafor and Nene, so Murphy is a nice change of pace to that.

55. Memphis Grizzlies- Alex Abrines, SG, Spain

Memphis can afford to stash the talented but raw Abrines overseas for a few more years.

56. Detroit Pistons- Solomon Hill, SF, Arizona

The Wildcats leading scoring goes to a team that needs a steady, reliable source of points. Rodney Stuckey and Brandon Knight are too inconsistent to rely on night in and night out.

57. Phoenix Suns- Myck Kabongo, PG, Texas

Kabongo has the talent, but character and elgibility issues plagued his short career at Texas. He could relieve Goran Dragic, as well as potentially play beside him.

58. San Antonio Spurs- Richard Howell, PF, NC State

A great low post-scorer, NC State’s coach mark Gottfried said that Howell was the best player on the Wolfpack last season, despite Leslie and Brown going well before him. His size is his major downfall, but the Spurs could use a scoring forward.

59. Minnesota TImberwolves- B.J. Young, G, Arknasas

B.J. has gunner potential; he’s not efficient, but can get very hot and score in bunches. Minnesota has little perimeter scoring.

60. Memphis Grizzlies- Vander Blue, SG, Marquette

Tony Allen will probably stay a member of the Grizz, and Blue could battle with Tony Wroten to be his eventual replacement. Blue has good enough size (6’5”), athleticism, and motor to be a god NBA defender one day.

I’m guessing Tony Parker slept pretty well last night.  Although the San Antonio point guard has been dealing with a troublesome left calf, set to be evaluated on Thursday, he showed no signs of hesitation Tuesday night.  Parker had 15 points and a career-best 18 assists in San Antonio’s 93-89 Game 2 win against Memphis in the Western Conference Finals.  A game that went to overtime via a Mike Conley and Jerryd Bayless inspired 15-2 run over the final 8 minutes of regulation, the Spurs showed signs of deceleration down the stretch.  Signs, that were far from present throughout the first three quarters.

-Back to Parker.  Good god did that man have it going on Tuesday night.  For a while there it felt as though if Parker wasn’t draining an off-balance jump shot, he was setting up another Spur, flying across the court for all of his 42 minutes on the court.  A well balanced offense and cohesive defense in overtime were key for the Spurs as they took an important 2-0 lead on Memphis, who must now win both games at home to keep this from being a series decided on the road.  Tim Duncan looked as young as ever in overtime, coming up with 1 of his 4 blocks in the deciding quarter and scoring the Spurs first 6 points of OT, taking apart Zach Randolph’s exhausted attempts at defense.  It appears he has some gas left in the tank, and San Antonio fed off it Tuesday night.

On the Memphis side of things, it was the same story different tune for Zach Randolph.  Stats wise, ZBO had a pretty decent game with 15 points on 6-18 shooting along with 18 rebounds and 2 blocks, most of which came in the 3^rd and 4^th quarters.  However, what isn’t present in his stat column is how much he hurt the Grizzles down the stretch Tuesday night.  Clearly gassed from 45 minutes of play, Randolph was slow and taxing throughout overtime, hurting Memphis defensively (he guarded Tim Duncan most of the quarter, and Duncan went off) and taking off-balanced shots, which couldn’t seem to find the bottom of the net.  Mike Conley had the game that he needed (18pts, 4 dimes), bringing the Grizzlies back in the closing minutes, but he’s going to need offensive help come Game 3.  While Jarryd Bayless also had a great night (18pts on 7-18 shooting), the last two shots of overtime were downright abysmal.  Down three with 14.6 seconds left, Bayless hoisted an off-balance three that drew a horrified and disappointed expression from Lionel Hollins.  Clearly, Bayless was hyped after his great night and thought he could be the hero Tuesday, but that shot has to go to your leader, Conley.  Even dumping it into Gasol or a cutting Tony Allen would’ve been a better decision, but hey, Bayless is 24-years-old.  It’ll be interesting to note whether Tayshaun Prince chooses to show up in Game 3, as he continued his poor play Tuesday night with just 2pts and 2rebs.

One thing’s for certain, if Memphis wants this series, they’re going to have to do much more than make a later run in the 4^th, because the Greg Popovich that I know, won’t allow San Antonio to make those same mistakes again.

Nope.

Just kidding. It won’t be easy, though. This year’s version of the Miami LeBrons is the best yet. Each of the Big Three shot over 50% from the field, with James checking in at 57% (as well as 41% from 3). Five players shoot over 40% from 3, with Rashard Lewis just behind at 39% and Norris Cole at 36%. One of those five shooting 40+% is not Chris Bosh, who is makin’ it rain from beyond the arc in the playoffs with his blistering 47% mark. Basically, last year’s most physically dominant and athletic team is now one of the most (if not THE most) efficient teams shooting wise AND they are healthy too. People seem to forget Bosh’s injury at the beginning of last year’s series in the Conference Semifinals against Indiana but that certainly had an impact as well. So everyone is screwed, right?

Not if the bad-boy, rock ‘em sock ‘em crew that is the Indiana Pacers have anything to say about it. Indy is about as close as you can get to an antithesis of the Miami Heat. The Pacers are slow, big, and methodical, while the Heat fly up and down the court, play small ball, and shoot lots and lots of 3s. It’s Miami’s unstoppable force of an offense against the immovable Indiana defense. The old adage says defense wins championships, but that isn’t applicable to the current landscape of the NBA. The last defense-first oriented team to win a championship was the 2004 Detroit Pistons, and that was a different league. Not to say that Indiana is incapable offensively. Danny Granger’s season-ending injury set them back at the beginning of the year, but they came in since the All-Star Break to finish in the top 15 as a team offensively.

In order for Indiana to beat Miami, they’ll have to play the Heat’s game a little bit. They don’t want to run up and down the court with them, that would mean a quick 4-game sweep for Miami; but the Pacers are going to have to make 3s. The biggest question is how? Without a reliable penetrator or shot-creator, shooting 3s isn’t the easiest of tasks. Indiana and Miami played three regular season games this year, with Indy taking the first two and Miami winning the third. There were two main differences in the contests. In the first two, the Pacers shot over 40% from 3 and obliterated Miami on the boards (including 22 offensive rebounds in the first game), but in the series finale, the Heat shot 50% from downtown and evened out the rebounding margin. Everything else, turnovers, fouls, free throw shooting, was fairly similar. What this tells us that in order for Indiana to be productive against Miami, they have to dominate the glass, both offensively and defensively (especially offensively), as that’s one of the best ways for them to get open shots. Paul George, George Hill, and Lance Stephenson are all better 3 point shooters than their playoff numbers suggest (27%, 32%, and 27% respectively) so hopefully that will balance out for them in this series. Miami also plays very aggressively on pick-and-rolls, so David West will be crucial this series as a distributor. Think back to the Golden State piece I wrote about a week ago. On pick-and-rolls, when the defense is aggressive, often times the rotating big man will get into the ball handler’s face, so the handler will dump it off to the guy rolling to the hoop, in this situation for Indiana, it’s usually David West. The defense will then rotate to prevent an easy West bucket, usually leaving one of the corners open, where D.J. Augustin/Hill/Stephenson/George, etc. will be waiting for the open shot.

We know what Indiana is going to do. They’re gonna play really good defense, and they aren’t going to be afraid to hit Miami in the mouth first. But the Heat will come back with a full head of angry LeBron-fueled steam. Will Indiana be able to answer for when the inevitable happens and James snaps into God Mode? For the sake of an awesome series, I sure hope so.

The matchup everyone will be watching is Paul George, one of the league’s best perimeter defenders, guarding the King himself. LeBron destroys his foes in numerous ways, and one of his favorites is by forcing them into foul trouble. If George can’t stay on the court, the Pacers are done. They are paper-thin behind him because of the injury to Granger. Sam Young and Gerald Green don’t stand a chance against James. Paul needs to be able to play great defense on James without hacking him or taking any stupid fouls, because he’s going to need to match every single one of number 6’s minutes. Considering that Kevin Durant was exhausted guarding LeBron in last year’s finals, and it caused his offense to suffer (also he couldn’t stay on the court due to foul issues that Lebron created), the idea of George locking down LeBron and being the primary, or even second, weapon on offense is difficult to swallow. That makes it all the more imperative that Hill, Augustin, and the other role players hit those 3s.

In all likelihood, Miami is going to win this series. I think in 5 games. However, to say they don’t stand any chance is ignorant. Indy could absolutely catch fire from 3, Hibbert could snag 5 offensive boards a game, and David West could elbow Chris Bosh in the Adam’s apple so hard that he doesn’t look like a velociraptor anymore. The Pacers are the kind of team who fully believe that they can and will knock the Heat out. It’s not likely. But crazier things have happened. Just look at this guy.

In case you hadn’t heard, the San Antonio Spurs are pretty good.  They’ve been good for quite a while actually.  This greatness was in jeopardy this past offseason, but Tim Duncan, being the demigod that he is, agreed to halve his salary in order to keep the team intact.  He’s now the 4^th highest Spur on the team although he has 14 All-Star appearances, four championships, 3 NBA Finals MVP’s, and an obvious place in the HOF upon retirement –but back to the Spurs.  All they were told all season long was how age would catch up to them.  San Antonio had the best record in the Western Conference this year.  And they just went up 1-0 on the Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference Finals.  The first game wasn’t close.

There’s a reason why we love the Playoffs, the stories that they provide, which are then recounted and burned into our basketball-allotted-memories for the rest of time.  Pick a storyline and I guarantee you can find a version of it covered in this series.  Can youth trump experience?  Can a team who hasn’t been there defeat the Goliath of its conference?  Can a city earn its first trip to the NBA Finals in team history?  Can a coach whose legacy has been torn apart, spit on, and re-amended by the city he once played for, finally find a signature win?  Where the hell did Tracy McGrady go?  Everything can be found in this series.

Back to the first game.  This was a dominant effort by San Antonio.  Before the game I felt that the key factor in this series would be the boards, San Antonio ended up losing that battle by two, and still won by 22 (105-83).  Turns out if you shoot 52.6% from the field it doesn’t matter who wins the glass.  We all know the Spurs start fast, leading after the first quarter in all but two games this postseason, but Sunday felt different.  The only time Memphis had a shred of hope was after they won the opening tip.  The Spurs went on to take the first quarter to the tune of 31-14, dismantling the Grizzlies offensive game plan with stifling defense.  Tiago Splitter gave some great defensive minutes, and some awful offensive ones, and showed Lionel Hollins that him and Duncan refused to forfeit the paint.  Matt Bonner, Danny Green, and Kawhi Leonard played great supplemental offensive minutes to the big three and San Antonio never looked back.  Basic pick n roll offense spread Memphis’ defense, allowing for a variety of breakdowns and missed assignments throughout the second half.  San Antonio’s shooting couldn’t have been purer.  And then shots like this went down.

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING, TRACY MCGRADY IS STILL AROUND!  I used to buy this guy’s shoes!  A tired and out-of-shape McGrady hasn’t scored this post season but damn it if he wasn’t going to try Sunday, attempting two three-pointers in the closing minutes.  Neither went in.  Damnit. He did however, hilariously wave off a screen and try to score in isolation against Richard Jefferson in the Warriors season, which was hilarious.

As my fellow work-associate Davis Mattek commented, if Mike Conley can play his matchup with Tony Parker to a draw, the Grizzlies have a chance.  He didn’t.  Tony Parker demonstrated vintage form, with 20 points & 9 assists, commanding his team to a victory over the inexperienced Conley.  It was evident early on that Popovich and Duncan want that fifth ring.  Tim Duncan’s offensive game was hindered by Marc Gasol (reigning Defensive POY) but was still able to grab 10 boards and make Zach Randolph’s trip to San Antonio one to forget.  Randolph, the leading scorer for the Grizzlies, ended with 2 points on 1-8 shooting, a far cry from his 28pt, 14reb performance to seal Oklahoma City’s fate.

For the first time in a series or two, Mike Conley was human.  He made mistakes in the half court, missed open shots, turned the ball over, and lost command of his team.  However, the Grizzlies are nothing without the 25-year-old and will look to him for guidance and to have him deliver OKC-series-numbers in the games to come.  If Memphis has a chance to win this series, it’s on the glass.  It’s going to come down to Randolph, Gasol, Darrell Arthur and possibly Ed Davispushing San Antonio around offensively and defensively, and Hollins most assuredly won’t allow for the defensive breakdowns in Game 1.  Yes, Memphis technically won the rebounding battle and still lost the game handedly, but when you consider that neither Randolph nor Gasol made their presence known in the paint during Game 1, this can be a lopsided statistic that the Grizzlies need.  Rebounding is an opportunity.  Rebounding will slow down the game, allow for Gasol and Randolph to find an offensive rhythm, and supply lanes for Conley, Bayless, Prince, and Allen to run through.  In total, Memphis must rise to the occasion, for although they have never been here before, to approach this series with a tourist mentality will mean imminent doom for a team that so badly wants to experience what San Antonio has relished in over the past 15 seasons.  As of now, Memphis doesn’t have a jersey number retired yet (only been around since 1995), but whoever can bring them back in this series will most assuredly be on their way to those rafters.