Ziggin' and Zaggin': Where Will Former Zags Fall in NBA Draft?

(Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images)

That move was criticized by many, including Downs' father, and made Micah a bigger name in college circles than his play ever indicated.

Downs never grew into the star many had hoped he would be for the Bulldogs, but he found his niche as a solid role player.  That label, a role player, is Downs' greatest asset and biggest hindrance as a draft prospect. 

Teams that are looking for a second round pick that can contribute will look at Downs, but teams that are looking for a second round gem that can become an all-star won't give him the time of day.

Downs' professional career is likely in the NBDL or Europe, but, if he does get selected, look for it to be at either the 55 or 56 slots.  Both of those selections are held by the Portland Trailblazers, a team that has had an up close look at Downs for the past few seasons. 

The Blazers have built a solid foundation of young, all-star talent, and are probably looking for the few role players that can push them into Western Conference contention. 

A role that Downs could certainly fill.

Jeremy Pargo

Pargo entered last season, his senior year, with a chance to lead one of the nation's top teams and make himself into a mid-first round pick in this year's draft. 

Things didn't quite work out that way for Pargo, who struggled during a bad stretch of non-conference games for the Zagas, and subsequently lost many of his minutes and responsibilities to Matt Bouldin.

Pargo's draft status also fell significantly during the season.  As mentioned, Jeremy had a chance to hear his name called in the first 30 picks if he had a good senior year, but, after a disappointing season, it could be a long Thursday night for the former Zag.

Unless a team has quietly fallen in love with Pargo during the draft process, and there seems to be no indication of that, Jeremy will likely have to follow his brother Jannero's path to the NBA—that of an undrafted free agent. 

But, if Jeremy IS drafted on Thursday the smart money on his suitor would be the Utah Jazz at the No. 50 pick.  The Jazz have been working Pargo out and, at the very least, seem to be interested, so that is one possible landing spot for Jeremy.

That's it for the draft prognostications, check back Thursday for a review of where the Zags ended up, and what it means for their pro futures.

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