The Best of the 2008 NBA Draft: The First Ten Picks

Arie  Coleman by Contributor Written on May 21, 2008
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The headline explains it all so here it goes.

 

1. Chicago—Derrick Rose

Why: They need a point guard who can space the floor better and allow Ben Gordon more freedom around the perimeter, which is basically where he lives.  They also need another go to player which Rose easily has the capability to be.

2. Miami— Michael Beasley

Why: Miami cannot afford to go another season having Earl Barron and Mark Blount being the only big men available.  Wade, Marion, and Beasley could create a big three of their own and bring Miami back to the promised land.


3. Minnesota— Brook Lopez

Why: Can guard the taller centers that Al Jefferson couldn't.  He also adds another post threat to the team.  Last year, they didn't really have any useful post players except Jefferson.


4. Seattle— Russell Westbrook

Why: They need a point guard threat.  Watson can run the PG position good, but Westbrook can do it better.  He fits perfectly here because he doesn't have to score to be effective (remember that's Durant's job) since he can play excellent defense.  He's also a great driver who can dish to Durant who likes to settle for the jumper.

5. Memphis— Deandre Jordan

Why: Darko and Kwame just suck, so they need to invest in a new big man.  Hopefully this one won't turn into a bust (which I have a feeling he will).

6. New York— Jerryd Bayless

Why: He's versatile in the fact that he can play both the PG and SG.  If Jamal Crawford is off (like he usually is) or Stephon Marbury is in a little funk (like he usually is), they can go to Bayless as a source of instant offense.  Mike D'Antoni would appreciate having an athletic version of Leandro Barbosa and Phoenix native to help him feel more at home.

7. LA Clippers— DJ Augustin

Why: Since he relies mostly on his outside shot, he will be able to leave the middle open for teammates like Corey Maggette, Al Thornton, Elton Brand (given that he stays), and Chris Kaman.  Provides an offensive threat from the PG position, allowing the Clips to be strong in all positions. 


8. Milwaukee— Darrell Arthur

Why: An true power forward is something the Bucks don't have.  All of them are power forwards who think they are small forwards and settle for jump shots and try to handle the ball.  Arthur can rebound, score, defend, and knows when to pass, unlike most of the players on the Bucks.  He won't be a go to player, but he can help the team in many ways.


9. Charlotte— Kevin Love

Why: A front court with Love and Okafor would be beastly.  Since Love and Okafor both counter each other on their strengths, they can assume different roles on both offense and defense, opening up new options for the Bobcats.


10. New Jersey— Roy Hibbert

Why: I don't care what people say, I still really like Roy Hibbert.  He might not be an amazing scorer, but he can help the Nets on defense and can pass the ball effectively, allowing Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson to do their thing. 

Right now, you must be saying "Where's OJ Mayo?".  I'm not a big OJ fan.  Don't worry though, I don't have him getting drafted too low.

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written on May 21, 2008 Preview/Prediction

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