NBA Mock Draft: Projecting the Entire 1st Round of the 2011 NBA Draft
With the midpoint of the 2010-11 NBA season quickly approaching, it is time to familiarize yourself with some of college basketball's most premiere athletes.
There are a handful of organizations that are already performing poorly, looking ahead to the the 2011 NBA Draft and the future of their franchise. ย Division I college basketball contains some very impressive young talent that would be able to contribute to an NBA team in major ways immediately.
Some of the most talked-about players this season have been Harrison Barnes, Kemba Walker, Kyrie Irving, Jared Sullinger and Terrence Jones.
Take a look at the top college prospects that may enter the 2011 NBA Draft at the end of the season in this version of the 2011 NBA Mock Draft.
*Stats are as of 1/1/11 and compiled from ESPN.com
30. San Antonio Spurs
1 of 30
Current number of players at each position(as of 1/1/11)
PG-4 SG-2 SF-2 PF-4 C-1
Selection
Lucas Nogueira, Brazil: C- 7'0'', 225 pounds, 18 years old
Reason
Nogueira received a lot of attention and hype from NBA scouts during the FIBA Americas U18 Championship. ย Against Team USA's U18 team, Nogueira recorded 22 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks.ย
Strengths
Excellent shot blocking abilities, shows goodย stamina, aggressive on the boards
Weaknesses
Needs to get stronger and develop his offensive game
29. Boston Celtics (24-7)
2 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-5 SF-2 PF-2 C-4
Selection
Tyler Honeycutt, UCLA:ย SF- 6'8'', 188 pounds, Sophomore
Honeycutt's Stats (so far this season):ย 14.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.7 BPG, and 1.1 SPG in 33.3 MPG
Reason
After Paul Pierce, the Boston Celtics don't have any productive small forwards on their roster, which makes Tyler Honeycutt the perfect selection towards the end of the first round. ย Honeycutt has a very nice size advantage at his position and has the capabilities of playing the 2 or even the 4 if need be.
Strengths
Great knowledge of the game, intelligent passer and a solid athlete
Weaknesses
Too unselfish at times
28. Dallas Mavericks (24-7)
3 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3ย SG-3 SF-3 PF-2 C-4
Selection
Trey Thompkins, Georgia: PF-ย 6'9'', 247 pounds, Junior
Thompkins' Stats (so far this season):ย 17.4 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.5 BPG, and 1.3 SPG in 29.3 MPG
Reason
The only power forwards currently on the Mavericks' roster are Dirk Nowitzki and Brian Cardinal. ย With the selection of Trey Thompkins, Dallas would gain a very talented big body in the paint that also has some serious range for his size. ย It is very likely that the Mavs will be making a lot of moves this offseason with a team that is beginning to age pretty quickly, with seven players being over 30 years of age. ย Also, the Mavs haven't been very competitive in the playoffs in recent years, not winning a conference title since 2006. ย Of course, the Western Conference is extremely competitive, but lets face it, owner Mark Cuban expects to win big and he desperately wants to bring a championship to Dallas. ย With a pick this late, the best player left for the Mavericks would have to be Thompkins. He would compliment Dirk Nowitzki very well.
Strengths
Versatile, good handles for a big man and a nice jumper with NBA range
Weaknesses
Known to have conditioning issues in the past and lacks explosiveness
27. Toronto Raptors (via Miami Heat)
4 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-3 SF-4 PF-4 C-2
Selection
Malcolm Lee, UCLA:ย PG- 6'5'', 200 pounds, Junior
Lee's Stats (so far this season):ย 12.8 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, and 0.6 SPG in 30.1 MPG
Reason
Toronto receives this pick from the Chris Bosh sign-and-trade, but it is lottery protected. ย Jerryd Bayless and Jose Calderon are the only two point guards on this roster. ย Bayless has the potential of blooming into a solid player, but Jose Calderon has been rumored to be in numerous trade rumors throughout this season. ย Malcolm Lee would be a steal for the Raptors if they could snag him this late. ย He would be one of the tallest point guards in the league and will eventually develop to one of the best point guards in the league. ย Lee shows a lot of potential. ย As long as he can work on his shot and range, Lee could eventually be one of the top players in this league.
Strengths
Tremendous size for his position, solid defender, long and athletic
Weaknesses
Inconsistent shooter, could use some added strength
26. New Jersey Nets (via Los Angeles Lakers)
5 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-4 PF-3 C-2
Selection
Marcus Morris, Kansas:ย PF- 6'8'', 225 pounds, Junior
Morris' Stats (so far this season): 15.3 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.3 APG, and 0.8 BPG in 23.9 MPG
Reason
The Nets acquired this pick from the Los Angeles Lakers, but it is top-18 protected, as part of the three-team deal that took place earlier this season. ย Marcus Morris could make an immediate start for the Nets especially if they end up trading Derrick Favors for Carmelo Anthony or some other high-profile player. ย With a young, but very talented starting lineup, all the Nets need is a superstar like Melo and they can build around him with draft picks such as this one. ย Morris would add some well needed attitude to this team. ย Morris would be a Kenyon Martin-type player that New Jersey fans have been waiting for since he departed to Denver. ย He's a high-intensity kind of player that has a high basketball I.Q.
Strengths
Consistent rebounder, great stamina and versatility
Weaknesses
Needs to work on his low-post game
25. Oklahoma City Thunder (23-11)
6 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-4ย SF-2 PF-3 C-3
Selection
Kyle Singler, Duke:ย SF- 6'8'', 230 pounds, Senior
Singler's Stats (so far this season):ย 17.8 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.5 APG, and 1.4 SPG in 31.8 MPG
Reason
The Oklahoma City Thunder already have two excellent small forwards in Kevin Durant and Jeff Green, but those are the only small forwards they currently have. ย Singler would be a perfect fit for this team and would blend in very nicely with the surrounding chemistry already formed. ย He also has the body and ability to play power forward for the Thunder. ย Singler would bring a large body added to the Thunder roster, that can shoot very well and play great defense. ย He isn't the quickest, but he is a big-time hustler.
Strengths
Outstanding basketball I.Q, skillful rebounder, unselfish, has some range on his jump shot
Weaknesses
Not a great athlete, needs to gain some speed
24. Chicago Bulls (21-10)
7 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-3 SF-2 PF-3 C-3
Selection
Travis Leslie, Georgia: SG- 6'4'', 202 pounds, Junior
Leslie's Stats (so far this season): 13.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, and 0.8 BPG in 29.8 MPGย
Reason
Leslie would be a good fit with the Chicago Bulls as a pure athlete that could see a lot of playing time right away, especially if he improves his jumper. ย Leslie's field goal percentage has increased every year since he was a freshman, which proves that he has the potential to further improve his shooting range and accuracy. ย
Strengths
Tough and aggressive around the basket, explosive leaping ability, and a solid rebounder for his size
Weaknesses
Needs to improve his inconsistent jump shot, undersized at shooting guard, struggles from beyond the arc
23. Utah Jazz (22-11)
8 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-1 SF-4 PF-1ย C-4
Selection
Ravern Johnson, Mississippi State:ย SG- 6'7'', 175 pounds, Senior
Johnson's Stats (so far this season):ย 20.1 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.8 BPG, and 0.7 SPG in 35.7 MPG
Reason
In his senior season with Mississippi State, Ravern Johnson is recording his best numbers of his entire collegiate career. ย So far, Johnson is averaging career bests in points per game, rebounds per game, steals per game, blocks per game and minutes per game. ย With Raja Bell as the only shooting guard currently on their roster, Ravern Johnson would be the best choice at this pick for the two position.
Strengths
Long reach, solid jump shot with some deep range, good athlete
Weaknesses
Needs to add strength to his lanky body and improve his defense
22. Orlando Magic (21-12)
9 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-4 SG-3 SF-1 PF-5ย C-1
Selection
Jeff Taylor, Vanderbilt: SF- 6'7'', 225 pounds, Junior
Taylor's Stats (so far this season):ย 13.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.7 BPG, and 0.6 SPG in 28.4 MPG
Reason
It is highly likely that Orlando will select a small forward with their first round pick since the only one they currently have on their roster is Hedo Turkoglu. ย Taylor will add some well needed support behind Hedo Turkoglu, and would eventually become the starter, since Turkoglu is already 31 years old.
Strengths
Outstanding defender, very athletic, has some "ups," and is he great rebounder
Weaknesses
Poor at creating his own shot and needs to improve his handles
21. Atlanta Hawks (21-14)
10 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-3 SF-3ย PF-2 C-5
Selection
John Henson, UNC: PF- 6'10'', 210 pounds, Sophomore
Henson's Stats (so far this season):ย 9.8 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 0.5 APG, and 2.6 BPG in 22.5 MPG
Reason
Based on their current roster, the Hawks would need to draft either a point guard or power forward. ย With the most talented point guards already being selected, Atlanta will turn to the deep list of power forwards that will be in the 2011 draft. ย Henson would be a very talented backup for Josh Smith for the first few years, or could even see some time at small forward since he is very quick for his size.
Strengths
Good shot blocking abilities, hustles, and is very athletic for his height
Weaknesses
Needs to develop his perimeter game
20. Denver Nuggets (18-13)
11 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-2 PF-4 C-3
Selection
Chris Singleton, Florida State:ย SF- 6'9'', 225 pounds, Junior
Singleton's Stats (so far this season):ย 14.9 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 2.4 SPG, and 2.1 BPG in 29.7 MPG
Strengths
Long and athletic frame, hustles, has some three-point range and terrific at finishing in transition
Weaknesses
Needs to become more productive in the paint, streaky shooter from long range
19. New York Knicks (18-14)
12 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-4 SF-4 PF-2 C-3
Selection
Brandon Knight, Kentucky: PG- 6'3'', 185 pounds, Freshman
Knight's Stats (so far this season):ย 18.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, and .6 SPG in 34.0 MPG
Reason
Brandon Knight would add some depth to the point guard position for the Knicks, currently having only two point guards on their roster. ย Knight is terrific at finding the open guy and can also create room for himself. ย So far this season Knight has scored at least 20 points in six out of 13 games.
Strengths
NBA body, good outside shooter, and a quick pure athlete
Weaknesses
Streaky jump shot, must improve his overall defense
18. New Orleans Hornets (19-14)
13 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-3 SF-2 PF-2 C-5
Selection
Jordan Hamilton, Texas: SF- 6'7'', 220 pounds, Sophomore
Hamilton's Stats (so far this season):ย 19.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.4 APG, and 0.9 SPG in 30.2 MPG
Reason
Based on their current roster, the Hornets only have two small forwards and two power forwards, which means they are likely to select one or the other in the first round of the 2011 draft. ย Hamilton would be a good selection for the Hornets because he is excellent at finishing around the basket and will continue to improve his game. ย Compared to last season, Hamilton has averaged a 9.8-point increase in PPG, 3.5 increase in RPG, and a 0.9 increase in APG so far this season. ย
Strengths
Good at running the floor, solid ball handler and rebounder, has some range to his jump shot
Weaknesses
Needs to improve his lateral quickness, poor shot selection at times
17. Portland Trail Blazers (17-16)
14 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-4 SF-2 PF-4 C-2
Selection
Aaric Murray, La Salle: C- 6'10'', 250 pounds, Sophomore
Murray's Stats (so far this season): 15.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 1.0 APG, 2.6 BPG, and 1.0 SPG in 28.2 MPG
Reason
The only centers currently on Portland's roster are Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla. ย Since Oden is very injury-prone, a center such as Aaric Murray will be selected by the Blazers. ย Murray is a bit undersized for his position, but is an excellent shot blocker and all-around defensive player. ย Murray has averaged over two blocks per game throughout his entire two-year collegiate career so far.
Strengths
Great shooter for a big man, solid shot blocker, good rebounder
Weaknesses
Needs to improve his basketball IQ andย work on his low-post moves
16. Houston Rockets (16-16)
15 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-3 PF-4 C-3
Selection
Patric Young, Florida: PF/C- 6'9'', 225 pounds, Freshman
Reason
Unless the Houston Rockets are planning to acquire a center via trade or by signing one from free agency this offseason, you can expect them to select a denter in the 2011 NBA Draft. ย Although Patric Young hasn't produced much during his freshman season, their is no doubt that this monster-sized athlete has a ton of potential. ย He has often been compared to Dwight Howard because of his size and strength. ย Much like Howard when he entered the league, Young will need to do some major improvements to his low-post game. ย With Yao Ming's repeated injury problems, a new starting center will be drafted for the Houston Rockets, and Young seems to be the perfect fit.
Strengths
NBA-type body, pure athlete, extremely passionate, outstanding rebounder and shot blocker
Weaknesses
Needs to improve low-post moves, a bit small for an NBA center
15. Utah Jazz (via Memphis Grizzlies)
16 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-1 SF-4 PF-1 C-4
Selection
C.J. Leslie, NC State:ย PF- 6'8'', 206 pounds, Freshman
Leslie's Stats (so far this season):ย 10.3 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.1. APG, 2.0 BPG, and 0.8 SPG in 24.4 MPG
Reason
Utah receives Memphis' first round-pick, although lottery-protected, and will likely go after a power forward, with Paul Millsap being the only one currently on their roster. ย C.J. Leslie is similar to Paul Millsap and will compliment him wonderfully. ย If Leslie can gain some weight and work on his low-post moves on offense, than he will really blossom at the professional level.
Strengths
Explosive athlete, good shot blocker, great quickness for his size
Weaknesses
Needs to gain weight and add strength, lacks a low-post presence, struggles from the free-throw line
14. Phoenix Suns (14-17)
17 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-2 SF-3 PF-2 C-4
Selection
Mason Plumlee, Duke: PF- 6'10'', 230 pounds, Sophomore
Plumlee's Stats (so far this season):ย 7.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.3 SPG and 1.4 BPG in 23.7 MPG
Reason
Plumlee isn't going to overwhelm you with his scoring abilities, but does shoot fairly well from the field with a 58.0 FG% so far this season. ย Plumlee would add a superb defensive presence to Phoenix, alongside Robin Lopez at center, averaging 1.3 SPG and 1.4 BPG.
Strengths
Moves very well for a big man, excellent mid-range jumper, solid rebounder and shot blocker
Weaknesses
Needs to improve his low-post game, needs to gain weight if he wants to compete with the larger PF's, see's limited time for Duke (may need more time to develop)
13. Indiana Pacers (14-17)
18 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-3 SF-4 PF-2 C-3
Selection
Kemba Walker, UCONN: PG- 6'1'', 172 pounds, Junior
Walker's Stats (so far this season):ย 26.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.8 APG, and 2.3 SPG in 34.8 MPG
Reason
Sure the Pacers have two very good point guards in Darren Collison and T.J. Ford, but, Kemba Walker has emerged as one of the most dominating players in college basketball this season. ย Walker could add some real depth to the position for the Pacers, and even play the two alongside Collison at times, which would create a dangerous duo of ball-handlers that can create open space for themselves as well as their teammates. ย Walker has continued to improve his shot throughout his three seasons with the Huskies, averaging his best FG% (48.6), FT% (84.0), and 3PT% (38.4) so far this year.
Strengths
Drives and dishes(creating an open shot for teammates), solid all around defender, great speed, explosive on offense and defense
Weaknesses
Inconsistent shooter, seems a bit selfish at times
12. Philadelphia 76ers (13-20)
19 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-3 SF-4 PF-2 C-3
Selection
Jan Vesely, Czech Republic:ย PF- 6'11'', 240 pounds, 20 years old
Reason
Vesely's numbers have dropped in the European leagues he is involved in, but NBA scouts were going crazy about him prior to last year's NBA Draft. ย Vesely shows a ton of potential but will have to begin to be more productive in the overseas leagues he is currently playing in. ย Vesely is a Dirk Nowitzki-type player, who is a big body down low that has some real shooting range to his game. ย He may take some time to develop, but will eventually be one of the better power forwards around the league.
Strengths
Has decent shooting range, runs the floor well, good handles for a big man
Weaknesses
Lacks superior NBA strength, needs to improve defensive skills
11. Milwaukee Bucks (12-18)
20 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-5 PF-3 C-2
Selection
Alec Burks, Colorado: SG- 6'6'', 185 pounds, Sophomore
Burks' Stats (so far this season):ย 19.0 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, and 0.9 SPG in 29.0 MPG
Reason
Alec Burks is an outstanding athlete that could instantly add some serious scoring abilities to the team that drafts him in the 2011 NBA Draft. ย So far this season Burks has recorded at least twenty points seven times through 13 outings. ย Burks is also quite accurate from the field, averaging over 50 percent the past two seasons. ย The Bucks desperately need to add a 2-guard to their team with Michael Redd and John Salmons both being 31, approaching their final years of being productive.
Strengths
Versatile, tremendous leaping abilities, phenomenal scoring instincts
Weaknesses
Lacks three-point range, streaky perimeter jump shot, needs to gain weight and strength
10. Golden State Warriors (13-19)
21 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG- 3 SG-2 SF-4 PF-2 C-4
Selection
Jonas Valanciunas, Lithuania: PF/C- 6'10'', 230 pounds
Reason
Jonas Valanciunas led Lithuania's under-18 team to a gold medal this past summer during the European under-18 championships, recording 31 points and 18 rebounds in the championship game. ย Valanciunas would give the Warriors another big body to their roster, along with a decent shot. ย All the big men that Golden State currently has have a solid jump shot for their size, and Valanciunas would fit into the mix beautifully. ย
Strength's
High basketball I.Q., gets up and down the floor very well for a big man, solid low-post moves
Weaknesses
Needs to add strength to compete with the larger, more dominant players in the league, as well as improve on his perimeter game
9. Charlotte Bobcats (11-20)
22 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-3 SF-3 PF-3 C-3
Selection
Jared Sullinger, Ohio State:ย PF- 6'9'', 280 pounds, Freshman
Sullinger's Stats (so far this season):ย 17.6 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 1.2 APG, and 1.1 SPG in 27.7 MPG
Reason
In his first season at the collegiate level, Jared Sullinger has been absolutely magnificent. ย Sullinger is currently averaging a double-double and shows a lot of NBA potential. ย Sullinger will have an instant impact to whichever team drafts him in the first round. ย He is an amazing talent that could possibly start right away depending on the team that selects him. ย Charlotte could be one of those teams.
Strengths
Fierce competitor, very passionate about the game, high basketball I.Q., outstanding rebounder, very strong and physical
Weaknesses
Has had conditioning issues in the past, could improve defensive game
8. Toronto Raptors (11-21)
23 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-3 SF-4 PF-4 C-2
Selection
Josh Selby, Kansas: PG- 6'2'', 183 pounds, Freshman
Selby's Stats (so far this season):ย 13.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 2.3 APG, and 1.0 SPG in 29.0 MPG
Reason
Jarryd Bayless and Jose Calderon are solid players, but Calderon's future in Toronto is unknown and some depth is needed at the point guard position. ย Selby might be the most NBA ready out of any of the freshman point guards that may declare for the draft at the end of this season. ย
Strengths
Solid defender, plays his heart out, has NBA body, excellent at attacking the rim
Weaknesses
Inconsistent jump shot
7. Detroit Pistons (11-22)
24 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-2 SG-4 SF-3 PF-5 C-1
Selection
Donatas Motiejunas, Lithuania: PF/C- 7'0'', 220 pounds
Strengths
Very athletic big man, great passer, solid mid-range shot
Weaknesses
Needs to gain weight and add strength to his lanky body, and has an inconsistent long-range shot
6. Los Angeles Clippers (10-23)
25 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-3 SF-2 PF-4 C-3
Selection
Derrick Williams, Arizona:ย SF- 6'7'', 215 pounds, Sophomore
Williams' Stats (so far this season): 18.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 1.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, and 0.9 BPG in 27.4 MPG
Reason
With two mediocre small forwards currently on their roster, in Al-Farouq Aminu and Ryan Gomes, Derrick Williams would be a solid pick-up. ย Williams is a very consistent player who has recorded three double-doubles so far this season. ย
Strengths
Versatile, solid perimeter game, high basketball I.Q.
Weaknesses
Lacks speed and needs to improve his low-post moves
5. New Jersey Nets (9-24)
26 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-4 PF-3 C-2
Selection
Kyrie Irving, Duke: PG- 6'2'', 180 pounds, Freshman
Irving's Stats (so far this season):ย 17.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 5.1 APG, and 1.5 SPG in 28.9 MPG
Reason
Nets management has announced that the only safe player on their roster is Brooke Lopez, with everybody else being available for trades. ย Because of this, they will go after the best player available in the draft, that isn't a center, which is Kyrie Irving is at the No. 5 pick. ย Irving could either become an instant starter, or, begin as a compliment to Devin Harris. ย If Harris is traded before the draft, than Irving would be a great player to lead this franchise going forward. ย Players from Duke have a reputation of staying four years with the school, but you never know with the talents that Irving possesses. ย After becoming injured eight games into the season, Irving may not want to risk his current draft projections, and leave early for the pros.
Strength's
Great defender, fantastic quickness, has some range on his jump shot, solid penetrator
Weaknesses
Not an elite athlete
4. Washington Wizards (8-23)
27 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-1 SF-3 PF-4 C-4
Selection
Terrence Jones, Kentucky: SF- 6'8'', 244 pounds, Freshman
Jones' Stats (so far this season):ย 17.7 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.9 APG, and 1.2 SPG in 30.5 MPG
Reason
Terrence Jones has had an amazing freshman season at Kentucky, recording five double-doubles so far. ย Jones is a monster on the boards and has an innate ability to finish around the basket. ย He is great handles for his size and should blend very well with John Wall.
Strengths
7'3'' wingspan, great ball handler, versatile, can play numerous positions, has great range
Weaknesses
Needs to improve his post game, needs to improve his shot selection
3. Cleveland Cavaliers (8-24)
28 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-5ย SF-1 PF-5 C-1
Selection
Enes Kanter, Turkey:ย Center-ย 6'9'', 240 pounds, 18 years old
Reason
Kanter hasn't played a game for Kentucky because of his ineligibility issues, but their is no doubt that he can be a dominant force in the NBA some day. ย With Ryan Hollins as the only center currently on Cleveland's roster, you can expect the Cavs to select one in the 2011 draft. ย Kanter is the most talented center entering the NBA Draft in 2011, and could be a productive force in his first season despite being a tad undersized.
Strengths
Very physical, solid finisher, has a 9'1'' standing reach, great at drawing contact
Weaknesses
Not very explosive, undersized for his position
2. Minnesota Timberwolves (8-25)
29 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-3 PF-2 C-4
Selection
Perry Jones, Baylor: PF- 6'10'', 220 pounds, Freshman
Jones' Stats (so far this season):ย 12.5 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.0 BPG, and 0.8 SPG in 31.1 MPG
Reason
Perry Jones has recorded two double-doubles so far this season, and has proven to be very effective on defense. ย Selecting Jones would give the Timberwolves some added depth at power forward, as well as a versatile athlete who could play the 3 if need be. ย Jones could also create the interesting possibility of playing PF while Love plays C, with two big guys who can really get up and down the floor.
Strengths
Excellent leaping abilities, runs hard up and down the floor, great rebounder and shot blocker
Weaknesses
Inconsistent, can improve his overall defense
1. Sacramento Kings (6-23)
30 of 30
Current number of players at each position
PG-3 SG-2 SF-2 PF-4 C-2
Selection
Harrison Barnes, UNC:ย FORWARD- 6'8'', 210 pounds, Freshman
Barnes' Stats (so far this season): ย 12.1 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 SPG in 27.9 MPG
Reason
With only two small forwards on their roster, the Kings will take Harrison Barnes. ย The Kings already have a terrific young small forward in Omri Casspi, but both Barnes and Casspi have the superb athletic ability to play the 2-guard. ย Barnes is currently the heavy favorite to be the No. 1 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, and is likely to remain so. ย He doesn't record overwhelmingly high stats, but is NBA-ready and shows a lot of potential.
Strengths
Outstanding mid-range shot, possesses a great knowledge for the fundamentals of the game, great all-around athlete, can jump with the best of them, keeps composure
Weaknesses
Streaky from three-point range, needs to become a better passer
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