Going into the 2012 NBA draft I expected a rather boring and mundane selection show. There was only one legitimate franchise player (Anthony Davis) and a bunch of guys who aren't sure what position they're going to play in the pros. To my surprise this year's draft was extremely entertaining. Here are some of the highlights.
Charlotte picked Michael Kidd-Gilchrist over Thomas Robinson with the 2nd overall pick instead of trading down like most experts had predicted. I trust GM Rich Cho, but if Kidd Gilchrist can't find a way to score they will regret their decision.
My man Terrence Ross went #8 to the Toronto Raptors! Most people think he was taken too high, but if he continues to shoot the way he did in his workouts Toronto will be very happy with their selection. I predict two years from now Ross will be an all star.
North Carolina had 4 players chosen in the first 17 picks. That's not a good thing. Carolina players typically peak at Chapel Hill and never really live up to the hype. Harrison Barnes is in a good situation out at Golden State, but I don't expect much from Kendall Marshall, John Henson, or Tyler Zeller. The Tar Heel mystique isn't what it used to be.
Houston drafted a player (Royce White) that has a fear of flying. How's that gonna work? White has a unique skill set and the potential to be a good player, but flying is a prerequisite for his chosen profession. Let's hope Royce can get over his phobia and help the Rockets win some games.
The dreaded "Red Flag" tag actually benefited Jared Sullinger and Perry Jones III. Sullinger ended up on a team (Boston Celtics) that was one win away from the finals and Jones went to a team (OKC Thunder) that gave the MIami Heat all they could handle for four games. Sam Presti shows his brilliance once again. Great pick.
Tony Wroten Jr. gets to play for a team (Memphis Grzzlies) that doesn't need him to score a ton of points. The move to Tennessee will be a culture shock for young Wroten, but that's probably a good thing. The slower pace and southern hospitality fits his demeanor and the fans won't rake him over the coals for his lack of a consistent jump shot. There's no pressure to start right away (Mike Conley Jr. is an adequate point guard) and he will have time to develop into an NBA star. Good pick for everyone.
The Portland Trailblazers chose center Meyers Leonard with the 11th pick. Moments later Leonard complained of soreness in his knee and pain in his left foot. Ok, I made that last part up, but I'm a firm believer in the Blazer curse. I'm sure Walton, Bowie, and Oden would agree with me. Sooner than later Leonard will have health issues.
No comments:
Post a Comment