The Obligatory LIVE Draft Column

Adding to an already massive file of draft articles, I've decided to come out of seclusion to speak on some of these selections.  

PICK 1, BULLS - First, I don't want to speak at length about the number one overall pick because we knew who it was going to be; and as expected G Derrick Rose went number one to the Bulls.  

Last year when Rose was deciding where he would play his one year of required collegiate basketball his final two were Memphis and Indiana.  Eric Gordon and Rose are friends, and it seemed like a dream scenario for Hoosier fans, he instead decided to go to Memphis and subsequently, the title game.  Rose was considered as one of the top four high school seniors along with O.J. Mayo, Gordon, and Michael Beasley.  His desire and skill set is perfect for the NBA and he was the unquestionable leader of the Memphis team.  If he has a weakness it is probably that he is not considered a natural shooter, despite the fact that he is a productive one.  Easy pick here, he defends, plays hard, and can get to the rim.

PICK 2, HEAT - F Michael Beasley of Kansas State.  A highly debated pick leading up to the draft because Pat Riley didn't seem sold on Beasley.  I suppose that a guaranteed 20/10 per game immediately isn't a priority for Riley.  There must be some character issues already in Miami for Beasley's character to be questioned as much it was.  Beasley has never done anything except for dominate the Big 12 and play with confidence.  His defense is bad at times, but defense is a want-to attribute for a guy with his athletic ability.  If he wants to he will become a solid defender and he will be an outstanding rebounder regardless.

PICK 3 - TIMBERWOLVES - G O.J. Mayo of USC.  Not a surprise especially since Beasley went second.  If there is anyone who should have their character questioned it should be Mayo.  Considered a cocky hothead in high school, he was suspended for part of his senior year because of an altercation with a referee, Joey Crawford, take notice.  Mayo probably has the highest ceiling in terms of offensive ability of anyone in the draft.  His athleticism is amazing and he can shoot.  Probably could improve taking it to the basket.  

On a side note, it wouldn't surprise me if Stephen A. Smith has an ether-soaked rag in his sport coat so he can take Jackson's place during a commercial break. He doesn't seem happy to be doing the puff-piece interviews, definitely a demotion from past years.  

PICK 4 - SONICS - G Russell Westbrook of UCLA.  I consider this a head-scratcher.  Westbrook was definitely a fantastic college player, but I am not sure he projects as a stud NBA point guard.  I believe this is a knee-jerk reaction to the league becoming so guard-oriented.  He seems to be the quintessential jack-of-all-trades master of none.  This has bust written all over it.

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