The Nuggets need a new team identity. Anthony Randolph has a lot of potential as a face up power forward, with skills as a rebounder and mid-range shooter. He won’t be Chris Bosh, who he’s been compared to most, but he will be a difference maker at power forward.
His shot blocking will be a force to be reckoned with, but the rest of his defensive game is suspect (reminds me of another Nuggets big man). The difference between him and Camby will be his offense and ability to run the floor.
No. 21 Overall Selection (New Jersey Nets): DeAndre Jordan, Center, Texas A&M
The Nets have gotten effective production from one through three for a long time now, but have never had any big men to compliment that. Sean Williams showed signs that he would be at the very least a good defensive player in the NBA last season, but more is needed at the power forward and center positions.
Jordan has tremendous upside, and if he can be motivated enough, will be a star in the pros. That is the biggest question, however, is his motivation. This is completely an upside selection. I admit that straight-out.
If Jordan pans out, this will be huge for the Nets. Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson are getting older, and the Nets are stuck between the tail end of Carter’s and Jefferson’s prime, and are still developing their young guard Devin Harris.
I’m not sure winning now is as big of a priority for the Nets since Jason Kidd was traded. A project pick is not a problem for a team in the Nets’ situation.
No. 22 Overall Selection (Orlando Magic): Kyle Weaver, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Washington State
The Magic had a solid year considering all the hype that surrounded the team. The addition of Rashard Lewis last offseason had many feeling they could contend in the east. They lost to the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Semi Finals, so they did pretty much what was expected.
The question now is: How do the Orlando Magic improve from this point on? Kyle Weaver gives the Magic a defender who can play the point and off guard. His height is an asset and gives them depth at guard.
Weaver is a very smart player that will make the offense more efficient and will bother opposing team’s best wing player on defense. Some comparisons to Bruce Bowen have been drawn, I would say those comparisons are fairly accurate. His offense is much better than Bowen’s, however, so he will be the better pro in my opinion.
No. 23 Overall Selection (Utah Jazz): Nicolas Batum, Small Forward, France
Batum’s athleticism has certain scouts raving, but he seems inconsistent in his play. The Jazz have a need at two guard, and Batum is long, athletic, has quick feet and hands on defense, and would be a good back-up to Ronnie Brewer at the two and Andrei Kirilenko at the three.
He is very young, however, and will need to develop his offensive game. But Batum has star potential down the road. This pick will pay off in a year or two.
No. 24 Overall Selection (Seattle Supersonics): Bill Walker, Small Forward, Kansas State
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