Colten's NBA Mock Draft: Version 4.0 ... The Final Installment

All right, boys and girls, the NBA draft is upon us. Three hours from now, the Wizards will select John Wall to be their next point guard who gets to play cowboys and Indians with Gilbert Arenas (Javaris Crittenton previously filled that role). The 76ers and their new coach, Doug Collins, get the chance to pass on the best player available, DeMarcus Cousins, and instead play it safe by taking Evan Turner, a jack of many trades, but perhaps a master of none. The Nets seem destined to select Derrick Favors, who is not as good as Cousins, but might fit better next to their already-in-place center, Brook Lopez, so I won't be too critical. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, are about to commit the ultimate NBA draft sin: drafting for need over talent in the top five. Barring a huge surprise, they will select Wesley Johnson, who is doubtful to ever become an all-star, over Cousins, who has the potential to become a perennial all-star. But that's what you do when you're the Timberwolves.

Without further ado, I present to you the final installment of Colten's NBA Mock Draft. May I be accurate AND precise ... however that may apply to mocking a draft.

1. Washington Wizards: John Wall, PG, Kentucky
The best player in the draft, Wall has the chance to be the rookie of the year, but also has the most upside. Look out for his new Reebok commercial tonight during the draft. Reebok will give Wall every chance to be for them what Michael and LeBron was/is for Nike.

2. Philadelphia 76ers: Evan Turner, SG/SF, Ohio State
I hate to back off of my trade projection between the Sixers and the Timberwolves, it appears as if it is not to be. All signs point to the Sixers passing on the unpolished Derrick Favors and the controversial DeMarcus Cousins. Often compared to Brandon Roy, I'm not sure it is a fair comparison for Turner since he is not the shooter that Roy is. Turner will be a good player, but I'm not sure he will be an all-star. Nothing against the guy, but I just don't see it.

3. New Jersey Nets: Derrick Favors, PF, Georgia Tech
With Brook Lopez firmly entrenched as the franchise center, the Nets will swing for the fences by taking the uber-athletic Favors. It might take a few years for him to put it all together, but he definitely has the physical tools to be a star.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wesley Johnson, SG/SF, Syracuse
The Pistons will likely make a run for this pick, but I don't think they have the assets to get it done. Therefore, the Timberwolves will draft a guy who will fit in nicely beside Corey Brewer in Johnson, but he lacks the ball-handling and passing skills to be a star. He is a good outside shooter, which the Wolves will find handy, and he is an excellent athlete, but this pick should be DeMarcus Cousins.

5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins, PF/C, Kentucky
For the second year in a row, the Kings will get a top-2 kind of guy at the bottom of the top five. Last year, they grabbed Tyreke Evans at #4 and he turned out to be the ROY. I think Cousins has a chance to be the ROY this season.

6. Memphis Grizzlies (via Golden State): Al-Farouq Aminu, SF, Wake Forest
Someone has to go out on a limb, right? I think Golden State will try desperately to trade out of the six spot if the top five goes how I predicted. I think the Grizzlies will send O.J. Mayo and the #12 pick to Golden State in exchange for Monta Ellis and the #6 pick. I think the Griz are afraid that they have zero chance of re-signing Mayo when he becomes a FA in a couple of years, and Michael Heisley apparently has a love affair with Ellis, who is a Mississippi native. Mayo for Ellis rumors have gone on long enough. Just get it over with, already!

7. Detroit Pistons: Greg Monroe, C, Georgetown
Monroe is not your typical, nasty Pistons big man, but he is the best big available, and the Pistons should be excited to get him instead of having to settle for Udoh, Davis, or Aldrich.

8. L.A. Clippers: Gordon Hayward, SF, Butler
White boys unite! The Clippers have a huge hole at SF, and that happens to be where the value lies. If they don't go with Hayward, they'll probably take Babbitt, George, Henry, or someone similar.

9. Utah Jazz: Luke Babbitt, SF, Nevada
Babbitt just looks like a guy who should play for the Jazz. He's tall, white, and can shoot threes. With the potential loss of Kyle Korver, the Jazz could really use a tall dude who can stroke it from deep.

10. Indiana Pacers: Ed Davis, PF, North Carolina
The Pacers have a lot of needs, most notably in the backcourt, but the value just isn't there at the ten spot. The best player available is probably Ed Davis, so they go with him here.

11. New Orleans Hornets: Ekpe Udoh, PF/C, Baylor
This is a tough call, but I'll go with Udoh, who played at nearby Baylor. The Hornets could really use another big man to go with Emeka Okafor.

12. Golden State Warriors (via Memphis): Paul George, SF, Fresno State
Who would you rather have? O.J. Mayo and Paul George or Monta Ellis and Al-Farouq Aminu? If this scenario plays out, then we'll have a chance to compare the pairs.

13. Toronto Raptors: Eric Bledsoe, PG, Kentucky
Rumors are swirling of Bledsoe to the Raptors. Is it legit interest, or is it posturing? I'm guessing it's legit interest, but I could definitely be wrong.

14. Houston Rockets: Cole Aldrich, C, Kansas
I don't see the Rockets choosing anyone other than a center, so I think this comes down to Aldrich and Alabi, with Aldrich getting the nod.

15. Milwaukee Bucks: Patrick Patterson, PF, Kentucky
Perimeter help is not needed as much after the acquisitions of Corey Maggette and CDR, so I think the Bucks go with the best available PF, which would be Patterson.

16. Minnesota Timberwolves: Avery Bradley, Guard, Texas
The Wolves have point guards, and they have wings, but do they have a guy who can play both? I think not, so Bradley is a nice choice here. He's also good value.

17. Washington Wizards: Larry Sanders, PF, VCU
The Wizards landed this pick earlier today by acquiring Kirk Hinrich from the Bulls. I think they'll take a swing on local kid, Larry Sanders.

18. Oklahoma City Thunder: Daniel Orton, PF/C, Kentucky
Much has been made of the draft slide of Daniel Orton, but it stops here with OKC, who are very familiar with Orton, who is from OKC. Orton would fit in perfectly down low as a defender and shot blocker who won't be counted on to score much.

19. Boston Celtics: Xavier Henry, SF, Kansas
I'm reluctant to let Henry drop so low. He might end up with the Wizards at #17, but I'll keep him here as the heir-apparent to Paul Pierce.

20. San Antonio Spurs: Damion James, SF, Texas
The Texas kid just seems like a Spurs-type player. There are more talented guys left on the board, but the Spurs value defense, intensity, and rebounding, and James provides all of those.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Kevin Seraphin, PF, France
Look for the Thunder to take an international player to stash overseas. Seraphin is the best of the bunch.

22. Portland Trail Blazers: Elliot Williams, Guard, Memphis
Chad Ford says the Blazers really like Daniel Orton and Elliot Williams at this spot, so, with Orton gone, Williams is the pick. Andre Miller is getting old, so Williams could become the PG of the future.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves: Craig Brackins, PF, Iowa
A mid-western boy for a mid-western team. The Wolves have a couple of bulky post players in Love and Jefferson, so they could use a guy who can run the court.

24. Atlanta Hawks: James Anderson, SG, Oklahoma State
The Hawks need a scorer to come off the bench to help make up for the loss of Joe Johnson. Anderson doesn't have a ton of upside, but the kid can fill it up.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Terrico White, Guard, Ole Miss
The Griz could use another guard, and White is from Memphis, so I think the Griz would target him in this scenario. If he puts it together, White could be a steal.

26. Oklahoma City Thunder: Hassan Whiteside, C, Marshall
The Thunder have several first round picks, and they already took Orton, so I think they might grab another big guy with upside as a backup plan. Who knows? Orton and Whiteside, if they both pan out, could be a formidable frontcourt.

27. New Jersey Nets: Jordan Crawford, SG, Xavier
Crawford replaces the recently-departed, Chris Douglas-Roberts. Crawford is smallish and doesn't have a great handle, but he could become a terrific scoring sixth man, a la Jason Terry.

28. Memphis Grizzlies: Jarvis Varnado, PF, Mississippi State
I know, I know, Varnado is not a first round guy. But Memphis could really use a backup PF who can defend and block shots, and Varnado fills that role to a T. Since they don't have a second round pick, I could see the Griz reaching for someone they really like at #28.

29. Orlando Magic: Quincy Pondexter, SF, Washington
With the potential loss of Matt Barnes to FA, the Magic will probably go with a SF here. Of those remaining, Pondexter seems to be getting the best reviews. He can't shoot, but he can do just about everything else. Sounds kind of like Evan Turner, who will likely be the second pick of the draft.

30. Washington Wizards: Solomon Alabi, C, Florida State
They already have Andray Blatche, but Alabi is the best player available, so he gets to sneak into the first round. I can't believe he fell this far, but sometimes that just happens. Even if it's not Alabi, someone will surely free fall this year, just like in every draft.

Okay, that wraps things up. Here's to hoping that at least some of my picks are correct.

As always, please check out these other fine NBA draft sites:

Walter Football
Football Fan Spot
DC Pro Sports Report

What if our best athletes played soccer?

I'll have my final NBA mock draft posted tomorrow night, so tonight I thought I'd do a short post based on a conversation among my friends from a few nights ago. With the World Cup in full swing, we were talking about the tournament and the U.S. team, and we started to wonder what our side would look like if our best athletes played soccer instead of football, basketball, baseball, etc. This created quite the debate and, in some cases, there really was no wrong answer.

Here is my "dream team," which will be utilizing a 4-4-2 alignment, just like the Americans:

DEFENSE

Adrian Peterson (RB, Vikings) - he would make an awesome outside defender. He is strong, tough, doesn't shy away from contact, and is incredibly fast, so no one would blow by him.

LeBron James (SF, Cavs) - I would put LeBron in the middle, kind of like how the U.S. uses Oguchi Onyewu. He would be there to clear out anything that goes up in the air. He might be a little too tall, but if anyone is athletic enough at his height, it's LeBron.

Derrick Rose (PG, Bulls) - Rose would play in the middle beside LeBron. Not only is Rose strong and quick, but he can jump out of the gym ... er, soccer stadium.

Darrell Revis (CB, Jets) - along with AP, Revis would play on the outside. Revis is the best cover corner in the NFL, so why can't he be the best outside defender in soccer? I think Revis would be awesome.

MIDFIELD

Dwayne Wade (SG, Heat) - Wade would be an outside midfielder. Could you imagine him and LeBron going up for headers on corners and set pieces?

Chris Paul (PG, Hornets) - Paul would play in the middle and be a distributor. There's no doubt that he would lead the team in assists.

Rajon Rondo (PG, Celtics) - Rondo would play alongside Paul in the middle. Rondo's freakish length and athleticism would be perfect for a soccer player. My friends and I all want to see Rondo create some sort of no-look ball fake/back door pass in soccer like he does in basketball.

John Wall (PG, Kentucky) - Wall is one of the sickest athletes in the world. I have no doubt that he would be a soccer rock star. That midfield is so stacked. Could you imagine these guys taking on the world? Ha!

FORWARDS

Chris Johnson (RB, Titans) - CJ would take his 4.24 40-yard dash and toast everybody about four times a game. He's another guy who I'd love to watch run around in the open field for 90 minutes. His gold teeth are just a bonus.

Desean Jackson (WR, Eagles) - another burner up front. I can't imagine another pair of strikers who would be as fast as CJ and Desean.

GOALIE

Andre Johnson (WR, Texans) - take your pick of the bigger NFL wide receivers. You could easily substitute Calvin Johnson, Brandon Marshall, Larry Fitzgerald, etc., but I like Andre Johnson. He is a sick athlete and has awesome hands. Plus, he's probably the most explosive of the bunch.

COACH

Ray Lewis (LB, Ravens) - the U.S. is known for its toughness (we don't sprawl around on the field after we get tapped on the toe), so Ray-Ray will keep it that way. I'm not sure if they would assign a little kid to hold his hand on the way out of the tunnel, but Ray will have his team "protecting the house."

Okay, so there you go. Who would you choose to be on the U.S. soccer dream team? No current soccer players allowed, by the way.

Colten's NBA Mock Draft: Version 3.0

With the draft only a couple of weeks away, things are starting to take shape. Teams are inviting certain prospects for private workouts, so it's getting easier to predict which prospects a team likes and what position(s) they are looking at. We still must be careful, however, to distinguish between legitimate interest and smoke and mirrors. Case in point: the behavior of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Sitting at #2, the consensus player to fill that slot is Ohio State guard, Evan Turner. The Sixers, however, have a need for a big man, so word got out that they were looking at selecting Derrick Favors or DeMarcus Cousins at #2. Since then, nothing but "Evan Turner, Evan Turner" has come from the Sixers brass. This makes perfect sense, because convincing other teams that they will select Turner is crucial if they wish to obtain maximum value in the event of a trade.

With that in mind, I present to you, Colten's NBA Mock Draft: Version 3.0. Feel free to compare it with Version 1.0 and Version 2.0.

1. Washington Wizards: John Wall, PG, Kentucky

The Wizards haven't confessed their intentions just yet, but Wall is the consensus top prospect in the draft, so he is the selection here. Wall also brings off-court charisma and a flashy style to the table, so he should thrive as the face of a big market franchise like Washington.

2. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Philadelphia): Evan Turner, SG, Ohio State

Just like in Versions 1.0 and 2.0, I have the T'wolves trading up from #4 to #2 to select Turner. Philly will try to get Minnesota to take Elton Brand's contract off its hands, while Minnesota will offer its third first round pick, #23 overall, to Philly. I think they will meet in the middle, and Philly will settle for the #4 and #16 picks in exchange for the #2 pick. Turner should fit right in with the T'wolves current perimeter duo of Johnny Flynn and Corey Brewer.

3. New Jersey Nets: Derrick Favors, PF, Georgia Tech

Marc Stein of ESPN.com is reporting that the Nets have reached a verbal agreement with former Mavericks coach and current ESPN analyst, Avery Johnson to be its next head coach. If true, look for the Nets to possibly make a run at Dirk Nowitzki, who is expected to opt out of his contract with the Mavericks and become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Devin Harris might be the guy to benefit the most from this move, as he experienced tremendous success under the tutelage of Johnson while they were both in Dallas.

With or without Johnson and Dirk, I think Derrick Favors is the selection here. He and Cousins are the best players available, but I think Favors would fit in better next to Brook Lopez down low, so the Nets will go in that direction. I think Favors and Lopez could form the best young post duo in the league, which would make Nets fans very happy.

4. Philadelphia 76ers (via Minnesota): DeMarcus Cousins, C, Kentucky

Many think DeMarcus Cousins has the talent to be in the running for the #1 overall pick, but maturity and conditioning concerns have him falling a few slots. As an avid UK fan who has watched Cousins play as much as anybody, I think these concerns are overblown, and teams that pass on him (other than the Wizards) will likely regret the decision shortly after. Cousins is young, huge, powerful, skilled, tough, and crafty -- all of which are terrific attributes for a big man prospect to have. I think Cousins will average 15+ ppg and 9+ rpg as a rookie and make a serious case for ROY. Additionally, he should fit right in with the rough and tough Philadelphia persona, much like Bill Lambeer in Detroit.

5. Sacramento Kings: Greg Monroe, C, Georgetown

I had Al-Farouq Aminu in this slot in my first two mocks, but Greg Monroe's stock is on the rise and the Kings could use another big man, so he is the choice this time. Although the Kings could use a versatile perimeter defender and rebounder like Aminu, they are set to possibly lose Jon Brockman, Sean May, Spencer Hawes, and Carl Landry to free agency over the next two summers. Monroe has a higher ceiling than any of their current big men, and he would be a nice choice at #5.

6. Golden State Warriors: Wesley Johnson, SF, Syracuse

Players who love to run the floor, shoot threes, and throw down huge dunks on the fast break are perfect for Don Nelson's famed "Nelly Ball," and Wesley Johnson fits that description to a T. With the emergence of Stephen Curry and the fact that Montae Ellis and his moped are wearing out their welcome in Oakland, I could see the Warriors sliding Corey Maggette from the three to the two and inserting Johnson in his place. Plus, the Warriors might lose Anthony Morrow this summer as an RFA, so Johnson makes even more sense if that is the case.

7. Memphis Grizzlies (via Detroit Pistons): Al-Farouq Aminu, SF, Wake Forest

If Favors, Cousins, and Monroe are all gone at this point, then I think Detroit will try to trade down. They'd love to move up to take one of those three, but with what assets? Tayshaun Prince's expiring contract? The value at #7 is at SF, but the Pistons are desperate for a center. If they can't find a partner, then they could be left to choose among Cole Aldrich, Daniel Orton, Ekpe Udoh, etc. That is why, if they're smart enough, the Grizzlies will capitalize on the opportunity to package a couple of its three first round picks and snag an elite player like Aminu.

The Pistons don't really need a SF since they already have Jonas Jerebko, Tayshaun Prince, Charlie Villanueva, Austin Daye, and DaJuan Summers serving as "big guys who can play on the perimeter." The Griz, however, might lose Rudy Gay to free agency this summer if a desperate team (like the Knicks or Nets, if they lose out in the LeBron sweepstakes) offers him a max-level contract. If this goes down, I think the Pistons will acquire the Grizzlies' #12 and #25 picks, and they'll take the best available big man at #12 -- possibly Cole Aldrich. In the end, I think this would be a terrific trade for both teams.

8. Los Angeles Clippers: Gordon Hayward, SF, Butler

The Clippers could really use a SF to fit in between Eric Gordon and a healthy Blake Griffin. Hayward is unselfish, plays tough D, and can shoot threes. He isn't a flashy pick, but I think he's the right one for the Clippers.

9. Utah Jazz (via New York): Luke Babbitt, SF, Nevada

I am torn between Patrick Patterson and Luke Babbitt here, but rumor has it the Jazz are infatuated with Babbitt, and have been for some time. With the looming free agencies of Wes Mathews and Kyle Korver, the Jazz will need someone to stretch the defense. On the other hand, Carlos Boozer is also expected to bolt to greener pastures this summer, so Patterson would certainly make sense here, too. But today, the pick is Babbitt.

10. Indiana Pacers: Avery Bradley, Guard, Texas

The Pacers are desperate for a playmaking guard, and Avery Bradley fits the description. There are questions about what his NBA position will be, but he should at the very least become a lock-down perimeter defender. If he really pans out, then he could become an improved version of Monta Ellis -- you know, the version that plays defense.

11. New Orleans Hornets: Daniel Orton, PF/C, Kentucky

The Hornets could really use a versatile big man to spell Emeka Okafor at center and David West at PF. Orton's combination of size, athleticism, and skill set makes him a better choice here than, say, Aldrich, Whiteside, or Udoh. Ed Davis makes sense here, too, but Orton's bulk and the fact that he projects well as a pick-and-roll player gives him the edge.

12. Detroit Pistons (via Memphis): Cole Aldrich, C, Kansas

See, I told you the Pistons might end up with Aldrich, anyway! Like I mentioned earlier, the Pistons are desperate for a center to replace Ben Wallace and Kwame Brown, and Aldrich should be a good start.

13. Toronto Raptors: Ed Davis, PF, North Carolina

Chris Bosh hasn't ruled out a return to Toronto, but most people think that he's bolting this summer. If that is the case, then the Raptors will need a PF to fill the void. Ed Davis is no Bosh, but he is a good value and fills a big need.

14. Houston Rockets: Hassan Whiteside, C, Marshall

Although I would love to put Ekpe Udoh (the local kid from Baylor) in this spot, I think the Rockets need a true center, rather than a PF/C hybrid, so the edge goes to the 7-footer, Whiteside. If Yao Ming is healthy, then the Rockets have a deep frontcourt consisting of Yao, Chuck Hayes, David Anderson, Luis Scola, Jordan Hill, and Jared Jeffries. Now, it's unlikely that all of these players will be on the Rockets' roster in 2010-2011, but they should still have enough depth that they can afford to draft for upside and bring him along slowly, so Whiteside makes sense in that regard.

15. Milwaukee Bucks (via Chicago): Xavier Henry, SG/SF, Kansas

The Bucks need to replace the outside shooting of Michael Redd and, maybe, John Salmons, so Xavier Henry would be a terrific fit here. The Bucks could also look at the upside of a guy like Paul George, or the high floor of a guy like James Anderson, but I think they'll get a little bit of both in Henry.

16. Philadelphia 76ers (via Minnesota, from Charlotte): Paul George, SG/SF, Fresno State

With Cousins already on board, the Sixers can look to backcourt help. Paul George has the combination of size and athleticism to become a good starter in the NBA if he can develop a consistent jumper. At #16, he's definitely worth the risk.

17. Chicago Bulls (via Milwaukee): James Anderson, SG, Oklahoma State

The Bulls never replaced the outside shooting of Ben Gordon when he left for big money in Detroit last summer. Anderson would be a welcomed edition in Chicago whether they land LeBron, D-Wade, or neither.

18. Miami Heat: Ekpe Udoh, PF, Baylor
The Heat could lose PG's Carlos Arroyo and Rafer Alston to free agency this summer, so Eric Bledsoe is a possibility here. However, they could have an even bigger gap to fill down low with the potential departures of Udonis Haslem, Jamaal Magloire, Jermaine O'Neal, and others, so I think Ekpe Udoh would be the choice in this scenario. Many experts expect Udoh to be a lottery pick, so this is good value for Miami.

19. Boston Celtics: Solomon Alabi, C, Florida State
If you are watching the NBA Finals, then you must have noticed by now that the Celtics are woefully undersized compared to the Lakers. Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, and Lamar Odom simply tower over Glenn Davis and Kendrick Perkins. The Celtics' tallest and longest players are Kevin Garnett and Rasheed Wallace, but each is facing the twilight of his career and neither is as physically imposing as Alabi, who stands at 7'-1".

20. San Antonio Spurs: Damion James, SF, Texas
I was torn between putting Damion James or Eric Bledsoe here, but then a thought occurred to me and I decided on James. Just to make sure I wasn't out of line, I asked my brother (who happens to be sitting just a few feet from me) who he would take if he were the Spurs. He said, "James." I asked him why, wondering if he was thinking the same thing as me. "Bledsoe is too dumb to play for Popovich." My thinking, exactly.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Patrick Patterson, PF, Kentucky
The Thunder would be thrilled if Patterson were to fall this far. Unfortunately for Patterson, lots of teams need height and length, rather than versatility at the PF spot, so that is his reason for the fall. If the Pacers decide to deal Troy Murphy this summer, then Patterson has a chance to head to Indiana to play alongside Roy Hibbert, but for now he will have to drop to the Thunder. I think Patterson might actually start fairly soon for the Thunder, which would allow Jeff Green to be the sixth man and replace either the SF or PF -- kind of like what Lamar Odom does for the Lakers.

22. Portland Trail Blazers: Eric Bledsoe, PG, Kentucky
Andre Miller isn't getting any younger, and I doubt the Blazers believe Patrick Mills or Jerryd Bayless is the floor general of the future, so they hinge their hopes on Eric Bledsoe. He needs to learn to play under control, but Bledsoe has good upside and he would benefit from learning from Miller for a couple of years before taking the reins.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah): Larry Sanders, PF, VCU
Minnesota is expected to re-sign Darko Milicic, who complements Al Jefferson and Kevin Love down low, and they traded up to fill the void at SG, so they go with Larry Sanders here because of his intriguing upside and the fact that he is different from anyone they have on their roster. He would be a nice change of pace to the bulkier Jefferson and Love.

24. Atlanta Hawks: Willie Warren, Guard, Oklahoma
Joe Johnson is on his way out of Atlanta this summer, so the Hawks will need to draft a combo guard who can sub in for Mike Bibby or Jamal Crawford and provide scoring for the second unit. Enter Willie Warren. Warren has his maturity issues, but there is no denying his talent and scoring ability. At #24, he is worth the risk.

25. Detroit Pistons (via Memphis): Keith Gallon, PF, Oklahoma
The Pistons already drafted a center with its first pick, so now they add another big body who can also stretch the defense a little. Like his teammate, Warren, Gallon has some maturity questions and was caught up in an improper benefits scandal during his time at OU. However, Gallon has a rare combination of size and skill that would be very appealing to Detroit.

26. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Phoenix): Jerome Jordan, C, Tulsa
Prior to the 2009-2010 college basketball season, Jerome Jordan was considered a potential lottery pick. Jordan did not live up to the hype, however, so most mock drafts are relegating him to the second round. Fortunately for Jordan, the Thunder could really use a center to compete with BJ Mullins for playing time, and all of the "first round" centers are gone, so Jordan gets the nod at the end of round one.

27. New Jersey Nets (via Dallas): Quincy Pondexter, SF, Washington
Pondexter really showed his mettle this March in the NCAA Basketball Tournament by leading Washington to the Sweet 16. Pondexter is NBA-ready, and could see some decent minutes for the Nets as a rookie.

28. Memphis Grizzlies (via Los Angeles): Jarvis Varnado, PF, MSU
This is a little high for Varnado, but I just have a gut feeling about this one. The Grizzlies have shown a preference for local guys, because they think they will have a better chance of retaining them when they head to free agency (see their acquisition of Ronnie Brewer and their flirtations with Monta Ellis). Varnado played ball at nearby MSU, and he grew up in Tennessee, plus the Griz have a need for a backup PF who can play defense and block shots. Sounds kind of like Varnado, to me.

29. Orlando Magic: Devin Ebanks, SF, West Virginia
If the Magic lose Matt Barnes to free agency, then they will need another perimeter defender to spell Vince Carter at SG, Mickael Pietrus at SF, and Rashard Lewis at PF. Devin Ebanks just happens to be a guy who can guard all three of those positions, so I think he would be a nice choice for Orlando here. If he improves his offensive game, then Ebanks could eventually become a good starter in the NBA.

30. Washington Wizards (via Cleveland): Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech
The Wizards selected the new face of their franchise, John Wall, with the first overall pick. To close out round one, I think they will look for a guy to bang around down low. Gani Lawal doesn't wow you with his physical attributes or his skills, but he plays hard and cleans the boards, and every team could use a guy like that. With the additions of Wall and Lawal, the Wizards get off to a good start on their rebuilding efforts.

As always, please be sure to check out these other fine mock drafts:

Walter Football
Football Fan Spot
DC Pro Sports Report

Braves back on top

It's been a lean last few years, but the Braves are finally back atop the National League East, and it looks like they might try to stay there.

The Braves haven't led the division on June 7 since 2003, when their 41-19 record was tops in the MLB. The odd thing about the Braves' resurgence is that their stats aren't particularly impressive. Their .257 batting average is 18th in the Majors, and Chipper Jones, the team's best player for the last decade or so and face of the franchise, is currently on the DL and is batting only .240 -- .066 points below his career average. On top of that, rookie sensation Jason Heyward, who looked like the next Mickey Mantle early in the season, has cooled off and is batting only .266 with 10 home runs.

Instead, the resurgence has come from timely hitting, slightly above-average pitching and fielding, and, most of all, the emergence of Martin Prado and the re-establishment of Troy Glaus as one of the game's top sluggers. Despite owning only the NL's 10th best team batting average, the Braves have produced the third most runs in the league. Its .349 on-base percentage is number one in the NL, which is more a credit to patience in the batter's box moreso than raw slugging. The Braves have 40 more walks (261) than the second best NL team in that category (St. Louis), and they have the fourth fewest strikeouts.

As for Prado and Glaus, Prado's .325 BA leads the NL, and Glaus' 44 RBI is tied for first in the league, alongside St. Louis' Albert Pujols. Many consider Glaus to be the front-runner for NL Comeback POY, which is an Atlanta fans' offseason dream come true. The fact that Prado, Glaus, and Heyward have, to varying extents, panned out (especially with the struggles of Jones), has lifted the Braves to heights unseen for the last several years at this point in the season. Still, one must take into consideration the Phillies' injury situation with Jimmy Rollins missing the last 20 games or so, and their inability to manufacture runs during that span. At only two games back, it would be a surprise if the Phillies are not able to give Atlanta a serious run for its money when Rollins returns.

But for now, things are definitely looking up for Atlanta. They have a dependable lead-off hitter in Prado, an exciting up-and-comer in Heyward, a resurgent veteran in Glaus, a face of the franchise and clubhouse leader in Jones, and a proven manager in Bobby Cox. Toss in guys like Brian McCann and Eric Hinske who are batting well, along with pitchers Derek Lowe, Tim Hudson, and Tommy Hanson who have a combined record of 20-9, and you can see how the Braves are a team to watch out for in the fall.

Cox recently said the Braves still have a lot of room to improve. If they do, then Braves fans would certainly relish the chance to bid Cox a fond farewell this fall, in what could be a magical end to his final season.

2010 NBA Draft (Big) Blue Board

Hello, kiddos. I'm back from a Memorial Day Weekend blogging hiatus to quench your thirst for more NBA draft info. Today's Blue Board is brought to you by MLB umpire, Jim Joyce, who successfully blew the call at first base in what would have been the final out of a perfect game pitched by Armando Galarraga of the Tigers. Ouch.

But life goes on, and so does our unveiling of the 2010 NBA Draft Blue Board.

1. John Wall, PG, Kentucky

The consensus #1 player in the draft. Has potential to become a transcendent star on and off the court. Kentucky fans want him to become for UK what MJ is for UNC.

2. DeMarcus Cousins, C, Kentucky

Attitude, shmatitude ... Cousins will be an all-star center in a couple of years -- especially if he ends up in the West. Cousins has elite size and elite skill, which is a very elite thing to claim. Plus, he's nasty.

3. Derrick Favors, PF, Georgia Tech

A better athlete than Cousins, but raw and not as big. He could become the next Amare Stoudemire, but he has a long way to go on his perimeter game if he's going to get there.

4. Evan Turner, SG, Ohio State

A terrific ball handler for his size, and a crafty scorer despite not being a very good shooter. I'm curious to see how such a lithe fellow without a consistent jumper will hold up in the NBA. Turner needs to either improve his outside shot or add some bulk.

5. Al-Farouq Aminu, SF, Wake Forest

Has a streaky jumper, but is terrific at just about everything else. Has the potential to become a defensive stopper in the NBA, and he should be able to rebound at a high level for a SF.

6. Wesley Johnson, SF, Syracuse

An excellent leaper and three point shooter who likes to run. I think he is a perfect match for the Warriors, so we'll see if he ends up playing for Nelly. I'm not sure he will be able to create his own shot at the next level, so he would benefit from playing in and up-and-down system.

7. Greg Monroe, C, Georgetown

Has good size and very good skill for a big. Is an excellent passer. Needs to learn to play the low post as well as he does the high post.

8. Gordon Hayward, SF, Butler

Former tennis player is a gamer. Can extend the defense with his perimeter shooting or take it to the rim off the dribble. Showed in the NCAA Tournament that he can be an excellent defender.

9. Luke Babbitt, SF, Nevada

Has everything you want in an offensive-minded SF, but he struggles on defense due to his lack of lateral quickness. Will he be more like Chris Mullins or Adam Morrison?

10. Patrick Patterson, PF, Kentucky

Has good enough size, but is also long and athletic. Really improved his perimeter game last year at Kentucky, and already has an excellent low-post game. Shows good effort on defense, but just isn't that good at it.

11. Avery Bradley, PG/SG, Texas

I'm afraid to put Bradley this low, but I'm also afraid to put him this high. I'm really not sure how he'll do in the NBA, but he is a terrific athlete and will, at the least, be a spark off the bench who can lock down on defense.

12. Xavier Henry, SG/SF, Kansas

Smooth player who is more athletic than he appears, a la Paul Pierce. Has good height and bulk for a perimeter player, and he can stroke the three. If he played with more aggression, then I'd have him in the top ten.

13. Ed Davis, PF, North Carolina

Doesn't have terrific size for a post player, but is very athletic and long. A reliable 15-18 foot jumper would serve him well. Has the potential to be a top shot blocker.

14. Daniel Orton, PF/C, Kentucky

Played sparingly last year at Kentucky behind Demarcus Cousins and Patrick Patterson, but Orton is an elite-level shot blocker and has excellent bulk and length. Despite his underwhelming numbers last season, he should be drafted early due to his potential to be able to defend the other team's best post player without help.

15. Paul George, SG/SF, Fresno State

Terrific size and athleticism, but has never been able to put it all together. He supposedly has a great stroke, but he tends to leave it in the practice gym. He might come along slowly like Trevor Ariza, but eventually become a nice starting wing.

16. James Anderson, SG, Oklahoma State

Anderson can flat-out score. He can shoot the lights out, but is also capable of taking it to the hole. I'm not sure he will hold up on the defensive end, but as far as scorers go, he's probably the best in the draft. He reminds me of a taller Jodie Meeks.

17. Cole Aldrich, C, Kansas

He will be a big body down low who can swat shots, but I'm not sold on him being an above-average starting center. He has a funny looking jumper, but he can knock them down from mid range.

18. Eric Bledsoe, PG, Kentucky

I think it's funny how people call Bledsoe a combo guard, just because he played alongside John Wall at Kentucky. Make no mistake, Bledsoe will be a PG in the league, and a PG only.

19. Ekpe Udoh, PF/C, Baylor

Udoh needs to add some bulk, but he is fairly skilled and can block shots. I wonder how he will do in man-to-man situations, though, and he can't camp out in the lane like he did at Baylor where he played in a 2-3. I think Udoh will be somewhat of a project.

20. Hassan Whiteside, PF/C, Marshall

Whiteside could end up being a top five player in this class, but it won't be anytime soon. Like Cousins, many think that Whiteside has some maturity issues. He is also very skinny, so he will need to bulk up if he's going to become an effective NBA-level post player.

21. Damion James, SF, Texas

James reminds me of a bigger version of Sam Young. Last year, Young fell all the way to the second round, despite having elite level athleticism, competitiveness, and being ready to contribute right away. The same thing could happen to James this year because he lacks a consistent jumper. I have a hunch that James will be one of the top rookies this year.

22. Larry Sanders, PF, VCU

Sanders is a project, but he is loaded with potential. He moves like a SF, but has the body of a PF. He's supposedly a shot blocking master, too.

23. Quincy Pondexter, SF, Washington

Like so many other prospects, he has everything you want except for a consistent jumper. Pondexter will be a steal if he falls to round two.

24. Lance Stephenson, SF, Cincinnati

The New York all time leading scorer in high school, Stephenson can ball, yo. Too bad he has character issues. I think he could have been a top ten pick if he returned to school, but school was just not enough fun.

25. Willie Warren, PG/SG, Oklahoma

Warren has the talent to be a lottery pick, but he's kind of a punk. If he can screw his head on straight, then he could become a Ben Gordon-type.

26. Terrico White, PG/SG, Mississippi

Terrico is a sick athlete with some nice skills. I wouldn't be surprised to see him drafted by his hometown team, the Grizzlies, and perhaps usurp Mike Conley as the starting PG.

27. Devin Ebanks, SF, West Virginia

Like Aminu, has the size, athleticism, and length to become a shut-down defender. Needs work on his shot, but he is a quick leaper who should be a terrific rebounder at the next level.

28. Dominique Jones, SG, South Florida

Jones can fill it up, but is he undersized to be a starting SG in the NBA? He will have to prove that he can guard if he wants to be more than a spark off the bench.

29. Kevin Seraphin, PF, France

I've seen Seraphin play once, I think, in last year's Nike Hoops Summit, but he supposedly belongs in the first round, so here ya go.

30. Jordan Crawford, SG, Xavier

Two reasons why Crawford is included: First, he can fill it up in the clutch, as evidenced in the NCAA Tourney. Second, he is former Kentucky Wildcat, Joe Crawford's little brother. Crawford has "guy who doesn't play at all in game five of the playoffs, but comes in game six in a crunch and drops 20 as he leads his team to the series-clinching victory" written all over him. I can't wait to see him play.

Just missed the cut: Gani Lawal, Tiny Gallon, Jarvis Varnado, Solomon Alabi, Armon Johnson, Elliot Williams, Craig Brackins, Trevor Booker