2008 NBA Draft: The Smart Selections

Gary Lloyd by Senior Analyst Written on June 01, 2008
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There's still two weeks before the early entry withdrawal deadline (June 16), but this final mock draft assumes the following players will still be in the draft. My selections are based on team needs and who I'd take, not a projection of which player a certain team may take. Essentially, I'm the GM and front office of every NBA team. Might sound selfish, so take these selections for what they're worth.

1. Chicago Bulls select Derrick Rose, Memphis point guard: The Bulls could go with Rose or Michael Beasley and be more than happy, but adding a starting point guard right away who fits the system gives Rose the edge. Plus, he's from Chicago, so it's a nice story.

2. Miami Heat select Michael Beasley, Kansas State forward: At the pre-draft camp, Beasley measured closer to 6-foot-7, so he could be more of a small forward at the NBA level. Not a big deal, though, as Beasley will probably be an immediate starter.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves select Brook Lopez, Stanford center: Not the sexiest pick considering the guards available, but Lopez will compliment rising star Al Jefferson in the post. Plus, look at all the star forwards and centers in the Western Conference. They have to be reckoned with.

4. Seattle Sonics select Jerryd Bayless, Arizona point guard: I've been somewhat critical of Bayless' game, but after going back and watching more of his freshman season, I now realize he could be a pretty solid pro, especially alongside Kevin Durant.

5. Memphis Grizzlies select Kevin Love, UCLA forward: Memphis is based on athleticism, but is in dire need of a post presence because of the Pau Gasol trade. Love is an exceptional passer, great rebounder and has shown the ability to knock down outside shots.

6. New York Knicks select OJ Mayo, USC guard: New York needs help at all positions, but Mayo is probably a good choice for first-year head coach Mike D'Antoni and his up-tempo style of play.

7. Los Angeles Clippers select Eric Gordon, Indiana guard: The Clippers' two biggest needs are health and a three-point threat. Chris Kaman and Elton Brand will be back to anchor the middle, so a guy like Gordon, with his range, could really stretch the opponents' defense.

8. Milwaukee Bucks select Danilo Gallinari, Italy forward: The top need for Milwaukee is a small forward, and Gallinari is the best European prospect available in this draft. He plays like a point forward, but also has the ability to score in bunches.

9. Charlotte Bobcats select DeAndre Jordan, Texas A&M center: Charlotte wants to move Emeka Okafor to power forward, his natural position. Jordan is teeming with potential, and Charlotte, as well as Okafor, would love to have him.

10. New Jersey Nets select Darrell Arthur, Kansas forward: The Nets are set in the backcourt, so a solid low-post player is needed. Arthur is a bit of a risk because of his struggles on the boards, but his offensive productivity could potentially be a reward.

11. Indiana Pacers select DJ Augustin, Texas point guard:

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written on June 01, 2008 Preview/Prediction

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