NBA Draft Preview: Sleepers
Which team will book their flights with Air Robinson?
In part 2 of our NBA Draft Preview, we take a look at the guys that aren’t hyped quite as much as players like Wall, Turner, and Favors. These are the players that might be overlooked come draft day (June 24)
Damion James, Texas (6′8″, 225)
The Longhorn decided to stick around for his senior year after nearly entering the 2009 draft. He improved in many areas and led the team in scoring (18.0) and rebounding (10.3). He was also their most consistent three point shooter (38%). His game should translate well to the NBA level because he has the quickness and athleticism to defend the 3 and 4. Offensively, he is a natural power forward but will need probably play more at the 3 because of his size. If he improves his ball handling he should be a heck of a player. He is projected to go mid to late first round.
Miami Heat: If the Heat keep their pick at #18 overall, and that’s a big if, James is the type of player (Mature, strong defender) that Riley would select.
NBA Comparison: James Posey/ Quentin Richardson
Patrick Patterson, Kentucky (6′9″, 240)
Wall and Cousins get all of the NBA hype from Kentucky’s star studded lineup, however Patterson is poised to make the most immediate impact. Some positives about his game are he’s polished (3 years of college ball) and he’s a complete player. His range extends all the way to the three point line (35% 3FG) and he’s physical on both ends, especially on the glass. He could play right away for just about anybody.
Miami Heat: Again, if the Heat hold onto their top pick and he’s available he will be strongly considered. I’m a big Haslem fan but they can bring this kid in as insurance in case he bolts in free agency.
NBA Comparison: Udonis Haslem
Stanley Robinson, Connecticut (6′8″, 215)
One of the best athletes in the draft. He can rise with the best of them and his impact in the league will be above the rim. He’ll likely never be a star player put with his ability to defend just about any position and his speed on the break he will find a home somewhere.
Miami Heat: Word is that he will likely go late first/early second. If Miami trades down, or if he falls to one of their second round picks he would be a great selection.
NBA Comparison: Josh Smith (Not as good a shot blocker)
Eric Bledsoe, Kentucky (6′2″, 195)
Known as “the other guy” in Kentucky’s back-court with John Wall in town. Although Wall casted a large shadow it didn’t stop Bledsoe from producing (11.3 points, 38% 3FG). People don’t realize that Bledsoe actually played the point in high school and he is more than just the spot shooter he was in college. Bledsoe is a high risk/high reward type pick because he only played one year in college. His upside is tremendous because he has amazing athleticism and a great outside shot.
Miami Heat: In a few of ESPN’s Chad Ford’s mock drafts he had Miami selecting Bledsoe at 18.
NBA Comparison: Mario Chalmers (worst case) or Russel Westbrook with a jumper (best case).
Derrick Caracter, Texas El Paso (6′10″, 280)
“This kid loves to eat”. It’s the first thing you think of when you take a look at the behemoth from Texas El Paso who transferred out of Louisville for disciplinary reasons. The Big Kahuna has always had talent, but it’s been his off court behavior that has garnered the most attention. He averaged 14.1 points and 8.1 rebounds last year in only 27 minutes of play.
Miami Heat: After dealing with Beasley’s antics I doubt they take another flier on a guy with off-court issues. However, if he can be had in the late second round the risk is minimal.
NBA Comparison: Glen “Big Baby” Davis
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