The NBA Draft: Hmm...What are the Odds?

67 days away and the 2009 NBA draft will be here. Unfortunately the Timberwolves did not fare well in their record with 24-58. Despite all the injuries and obstacles the Timberwolves have faced, they finish with two more wins than last season.

With increased confidence in their stars Al Jefferson and Randy Foye, the Timberwolves look to next year in what could be a promising upcoming year.

The Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves have tied records at 24-58. This means that they both were placed fifth in the lottery for the first pick. This means they have a 7.5 percent chance of getting the number one pick.

The NBA held a tiebreaker by drawing the teams name out a hat, and Minnesota won, resulting in a 7.6 percent chance, and memphis having a 7.5 percent chance.

One would ask, how do you think the NBA draft will play out?

Minnesota most likely will have the third-fifth pick. In no particular order (except for the onest pick Griffin), here are the top five draft picks .

Blake Griffin, Hasheem Thabeet, Jordan Hill, Ricky Rubio, and James Harden. Here's a short rundown on each of the candidates.

Blake Griffin (PF): At 6'10", extremely coordinated and powerful PF on the glass and inside. Explosive, excellent rebounder, plays team basketball. Jump shot and defense needs work. Comparison: Amare Stoudemire

Hasheem Thabeet (C) : At 7'3", has a large frame and wingspan. Can run with a fastbreak team with an amazing leaping ability. Rarely takes a dumb shot, great free throw shooter and can change a game with an amazing shot blocking ability. Has poor hands and limited offense. Comparison: Samuel Dalembert.

Jordan Hill (PF): At 6'10", a super athlete with a Danny Granger potential. Plays great inside, runs the ball well and his strong points are ultra efficient. Highly competitive in rebounding while developing a mid range shot. Defense is the only chink in his armor due to lack of awareness and coordination. Comparison: Chris Wilcox

Ricky Rubio (PG): At 6'4", possibly the best prospect to come from Europe, Ricky Rubio runs a ball club like a NBA veteran PG. Basketball IQ is that of Chris Paul with excellent anticipation, coordination and savvy passes. He is not a great shooter, but has made significant strides as of late and his body needs a little work. Comparison: Steve Nash

James Harden (SG): At 6'5", a left hander who's highly efficient at setting up his own shot as well as others. Advanced shooter with great perimeter vision with a solid defense around it as well. An average driver to the basket, average sized, and ball handling skills need work. Comparison: Manu Ginobili

I am predicting Thabeet to be drafted at No. 3 or No. 4, with Rubio holding the No. 2 spot. That puts Minnesota in a good position to get him. If not, they will go for Rubio, or Harden. With the other picks, they will make a trade for Thabeet, or for a veteran C.

You can read my other article on Minnesota Timberwolves '09-'10 Season prediction to get more insight on why Thabeet would be a fit for the Timberwolves.

Hope you enjoyed reading this article.