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http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=16345
Chat with Chad Ford
Welcome to The Show! On Thursday, ESPN NBA Insider Chad Ford will drop by to talk some NBA hoops.
Ford covers the NBA and NBA Draft for ESPN Insider and also makes appearances on ESPN Radio and ESPNEWS.
Send in your questions to Chad now, then join him right here in The Show on Thursday at noon ET!
Ford Archive: Chats | Columns
SportsNation Buzzmaster: Hang tight! Chad is just finishing up some last-minute business and will be joining the chat any minute!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Sorry everyone. Lots going on today. I'll take questions as long as a can. Be patient. Phone is ringing a lot. If I hear anything you'll be the first to know ... Let's roll.
Casey: It seems to be more risky to pick Oden then Durant? What do you think?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I'm not sure how so. Oden is going to be, at the very least, a domiant defensive center in the league. Detroit won a title with a guy like that. At best, he figures out the offensive stuff and he averages 22, 15 and 3 or 4 bpg. Not sure why that's risky.
Andy (Boston, Ma): Chad in your opinion do you think the Blazers ever seriously considered Durant? I'm kind of thinking their interaction with him had more to do with marketing than actual interest.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes, the seriously considered him. But they also got a lot of entertainment and media attention doing the things the way they did. Given their sorid past, I think it was a good think. The Blazers are back and so are their fans. That's great for the NBA.
Frank (Oregon State University): Hey there, Chad. Early word out of Portland was that Greg Oden was trying to talk Kevin Pritchard into trading to get Mike Conley Jr. Do you see any chance of that happening, or would Portland have to give up more than they are willing to, or..... ? Thanks for your time!
SportsNation Chad Ford: They are trying to get another lottery pick. Right now it doesn't look hopeful. More likely they trade Zach Randolph for a small forward later this summer. If they did get a pick, I think they'd opt for a small forward over a point guard. The Conley-Oden connection is nice, but I think they're both fine with moving on.
greg (cleveland): when the sonics select kevin durant, which player is more likely to go rashard lewis or ray allen, and if by chance u think both will go what kind of package can the cavs put together to get ray allen, a badly needed shooter
SportsNation Chad Ford: Maybe both. I think Sam Presti will be active to reshape this team around Durant. Allen is being offered. Lewis will probably be a sign-and-trade. My guess is Presti will try to build this team in the image of the Spurs. It's an exciting time Sonics fans.
Claudio (Rio, Brasil): why doesn´t Portland trade Zach for Rashard Lewis? I mean, if they are taking Oden and Seattle Durant, that would be sensible for both teams.
SportsNation Chad Ford: I don't think the two teams are into helping each other right now. They are competitors. But you're right, it does make some sense.
Dan (new jersey): Is it true that the Hawks are holding up the KG-Amare deal? How could they turn down Amare? He's got to be better than whomever they take at 3 right? Am I crazy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Whenever you have Kevin McHale and Billy Knight as the two linchpins in a KG deal ... you're asking for trouble. The problem is with ownership. As of this morning, it looks like the Hawks will be keeping at least the No. 3 pick.
Jeff (San Diego): Hi Chad, Is there any truth to the rumors that Yi could go third overall to the Hawks?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes. There's a split in management. Billy Knight wants Al Horford. Some in ownership want Yi because of certain marketing factors. I think it will be Horford. But if it's Yi, you know it's not Knight who's been steering the Titanic all of these years.
JP (Arkansas): Are the Grizz seriously considering Brewer? Is that a great idea given that he doesn't have much of an offensive game?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they are split between Mike Conley and Corey Brewer. I think it will be Conley at the end of the day. He's a franchise type point guard.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Noah is also in the mix in Memphis. They are also talking about trying to get another first round pick.
Dan (NY, NY): Ray Allen for the Celtics 5th pick and Ratliff: just a rumor?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think it was offered. I don't think the Celtics are biting.
Nick (Boston): What will the Celtics do with the 5th pick? Please tell me that it wont be Yi, i know that he had some success in China, but he doesnt seem proven to me.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Is this Bill Simmons? I think Yi would be a good pick. He has big upside. He could be a star down the road. And if you are going to move Pierce down the road, I think you take the best player available.
SportsNation Chad Ford: We have our first deal! It's a biggie!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Orlando traded the 54th pick to Houston for cash considerations! The crowd goes wild!
All the world: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Rob (new Orleans): Chad taht's not nice I thought the C's got KG
Mark, Boston: "I will now light myself on fire"
Pat, Belgium, Wisconsin: Who do you think the Bucks will pick up at No. 6?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think there's a chance they trade it. Mavs and Sixers have been trying to get in. Mavs offering Devin Harris. Sixers offering 12 and 21. Seems like both deals are worth taking for Milwaukee. If they keep the pick, I'd say Jeff Green.
Brian mpls: Any new KG rumors? What are the wolves doing at 7?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Wolves still working the KG front. Trying to find other teams to make a deal work. This late in the game, I'm not optimistic they make a deal. That leaves them with No. 7. They'll consider Noah, Hawes and Brewer (and Yi if he's there). I think they'll grab Brewer.
Scott (Fargo, ND): Please tell me no Spencer Hawes at #7 for Wolves.
SportsNation Chad Ford: The do like him, but the talk on the internet about a promise to him was bad info.
Todd, Charlotte: Any Bobcats rumblings?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they'll trade the pick. Heard that Golden State would be willing to move Monta Ellis to here if Yi was still on the board. That would be a good deal for Charlotte. Philly would like to get in. So would the Lakers. Sounds like they'll sell to the highest bidder. If they keep the pick: Brandan Wright.
Sean (Burbank, CA): Hey Chad, am I the only one who thinks Zach Randolph to the bulls for the #9 pick (and players to match money) is a good idea?
SportsNation Chad Ford: No ...unfortunatley, the Bulls don't. I do think he's the answer to all of their problems. But I also think that Scott Skiles would kill him.
Farhan (Rio Rancho, NM): What are the chances the Bulls don't pick a big? Do they really like Noah, he seems awfully redundant with Wallace and Thomas, but seems to be getting high praise from Paxson.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Noah fits their draft strategy. Winning program, active kid, plays defense. But you're right, you can't play him and Wallace or even Tyrus Thomas together ... not yet anyway. Sounds like if Noah's not there, Spencer Hawes is the guy.
Brodie (Davenport, IA): Why are the Bulls being mentioned in the Kobe trade talks but not the KG rumors?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good question. Not sure why. I think they should make a deal for Kobe. Will cost a lot, but in the East, I think they'd have a few guarnateed title runs.
Zach (Sacto): What about the Kings at 10? Are they targetting whoever falls between Noah/Wright, or will they grab a Thaddeus Young or Nick Young at that spot?
SportsNation Chad Ford: All are possibilities. But I think they like Al Thornton ... which means Ron Artest is gone.
Jim (Montclair, NJ): All other things being equal, who do you think the Bucks would prefer at point guard: Mo Williams, Devin Harris, or Mike Conley?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good question. Given their budget and desire to win now ... I think it could be Harris.
Matt (Woodstock, GA): Is there any chance Conley falls to the Hawks at 11? Any?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Nope.
John (Blaine, WA): What is the latest on the trade talk about Luke Ridnour from the Sonics going to the Hawks for the number 11 pick??
SportsNation Chad Ford: It's possible but I think the Hawks are eyeing two other guys ahead of him -- Monta Ellis and Jose Calderon. If they keep the pick, probably Acie Law.
Josh (Springfield, PA: Chad, every year the sixers get just good enough to be mediocre. This year they have a blossoming star in Igoudala, but they don't have anyone to share the load and be a co star. Do you think there's a chance they could move up? And if not who do you think of the 4 elite power forwards out there is going to fall to them at 12?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good analysis of the team. The like Jeff Green and Yi and are trying to move up to get him. Neither guy is there if they are still on the board. I think they'd go with Julian Wright or Nick Young ... and then get a guy like Glen Davis at No. 21.
Eric (New Orleans): How about the Hornets packaging the No. 13 pick for a scoring swingman?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They can get that here at No. 13. Either Nick Young or Thaddeus Young I hear.
Tino: Wilmington, California: Who fits better for the L.A. Clippers, Acie Law or Javaris Crittendon?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They like Crittenton, but if a guy like Nick Young or Julian Wright is here ... can they really pass on him?
Tim (Pontiac, MI): Are the Pistons still targeting Rodney Stuckey at 15? Will he be there?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I don't think they are targeting him. I think if Al Thornton and Nick Young are off the board, he's the guy. If those other guys are there ... I'm not sure what they'll do. Stuckey is also getting play at No. 11.
Tyler (Olney, Md): There's some buzz on the internet that Julian Wright could fall to the Wizards at 16, is this really a possibility?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Possible, but unlikely. But someone should slip. Spencer Hawes and Thaddeus Young are also possible. If not they like Jason Smith and Marco Belinelli
Kevin (Atlanta): Do you think Sean Williams will mature or always be a head case? At what point is the risk really worth taking?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Right here ... in New Jersey. He's perfect for the Nets and worth the risk here.
Mike - Indy: Any truth to the RJ and Krstic for JO rumor?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the Nets would like O'Neal. I think the Pacers can get a better deal.
John (Bay Area): How likely is a Yi Jianlian trade to the Warriors? He would be a perfect fit, but I just don't see it happening.
SportsNation Chad Ford: They are trying. He would be a perfect fit. David Stern needs to intervene. If he doesn't, Colorado State's Jason Smith, is a very similar player to Yi.
Cameron (Louisiana): Who can the Lakers pick up in the draft or trade for to make Kobe happy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: It's looking like the Lakers may just pick here. They have tried to move up and certainly they've talked trade, but it sounds like nothing is happening in LA. I hear they like Spain's Rudy Fernandez.
Shaq: (South Beach, FL): Are the Heat going to deal for Bibby & artest?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think there's a deal there if they want it. Sounds like the Kings would like to do some housecleaning and the Heat still want to compete.
Stephen (Atlanta): Just how messed up is the Atlanta front office situation? Any chance at all they come out of this draft looking like a normal franchise?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes!!!! If they land a guy like Stoudemire or Jermaine O'Neal I think they will be a dangerous team in the East and Billy Knight will have some vindication. If they do nothing, the league should automatically contract them.
Josh (NYC): What is the latest from Camp Isiah? What do the Knicks have up their sleeve?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They like Sean Williams and have tried to move up in the draft. I don't think they're going to get there. The guys they like at No. 23: Wilson Chandler, Taurean Green, Daequan Cook or ... someone we've never heard of. Isiah wants to outdo himself this year. Here's an idea: Take Coby Karl from Boise State ... that would be gutsy.
Sujei (Puerto Rico): At this point and knowing how sensitive he is can the suns bring Marion back next season? thanks Chad
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think it will be a problem if Amare stays. If they eventually move him for KG, I think Marion will be fine.
Christopher (Phoenix, AZ): Any news on the Suns getting into the top 10?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the chances are very, very slim.
Let me take this one Chad: The knicks suck
Elie (San Diego): So if the Suns keep the 24 and 29 who do you think they go after? Thanks Chad
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the like Gabe Pruitt, Rudy Fernandez, Aaron Brooks and Taurean Green.
Brad (SLC): ANy way the Jazz can move way up and land Corey Brewer? Two Brewers and a Boozer in Utah would be incredible!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Some interest in Kirilenko, but I don't think the Jazz will move him. I think maybe a guy like Morris Almond, Tiago Splitter or Arron Afflalo here.
Jerry, Taipei, Taiwan: What can my beloved Rockets do to get a PF? Any chance of drafting Sean Williams or a package of Rafer and salary cap filler to get Randolph?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they like Nevada's Nick Fazekas at No. 26. If they could make a move they would ... they've had some interest in Artest.
Knickerbocker (NY): Why have the Kobe-to-NY talks died? Trade Lee, Marbury/Francis, Balkman and the pick?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They never started. The Lakers won't take that junk for Kobe. Lee is the only guy on the team with real trade value.
Adam (Hartford): Spurs and Jarrod Dudley???
SportsNation Chad Ford: No one knows what the Spurs are doing. They're the most secretive team in the league. Dudley is a guess. Petteri Koponnen and Zabian Dowdell are other guesses.
Brandon (Dallas): What do the Mavs do with the no. 6 pick if they trade Devin Harris to the Bucks?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Corey Brewer?
Doug - Indy: Chad - Bird says the Pacers will get in the draft...but yet he says they don't want to get rid of any young players (Granger)...other than JO, no one has any value to get into the draft, at least the first round...what's he thinking...he has many of us wondering that lately. JO trade value seems to be losing some punch lately...is there any hope for Indy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Pacers have a $4 million trade exception so they could take a player off the hands of a team that's strapped for cash and get a pick in return. I think O'Neal will be moved, but probably later this summer.
Josh (Toronto): Raptors? Anything??
SportsNation Chad Ford: Trying to get into the first round. Sounds like Calderon is bait. A team like the Hawks would be crazy to pass. I hear they also like Belinelli, but that would be later in the draft.
Josh (Springfield PA): Chad why is there all this talk but not a lot of action?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Because 99 percent of deals that are talked about don't happen for one reason or another. But it seems like it's been a long time since a blockbuster. Someone has to pull the trigger. Someone has to have the courage to make a deal.
Josh (Phoenix): Are you doing a final Mock Draft today? If so will it be up before 4:00 EST?
SportsNation Chad Ford: New Mock v 6.0 is up. First 14 picks are free. Will be updating throughout the day up until the draft as I hear things so check back often ...
SportsNation Chad Ford: Thanks for coming everyone ... we had over 11,000 questions today. Sorry i couldn't get to them all. Have fun on draft night!
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I agree with Ford. I think JO will be traded later this summer when the Pacers can get what they want for him..
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http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=16345
Chat with Chad Ford
Welcome to The Show! On Thursday, ESPN NBA Insider Chad Ford will drop by to talk some NBA hoops.
Ford covers the NBA and NBA Draft for ESPN Insider and also makes appearances on ESPN Radio and ESPNEWS.
Send in your questions to Chad now, then join him right here in The Show on Thursday at noon ET!
Ford Archive: Chats | Columns
SportsNation Buzzmaster: Hang tight! Chad is just finishing up some last-minute business and will be joining the chat any minute!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Sorry everyone. Lots going on today. I'll take questions as long as a can. Be patient. Phone is ringing a lot. If I hear anything you'll be the first to know ... Let's roll.
Casey: It seems to be more risky to pick Oden then Durant? What do you think?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I'm not sure how so. Oden is going to be, at the very least, a domiant defensive center in the league. Detroit won a title with a guy like that. At best, he figures out the offensive stuff and he averages 22, 15 and 3 or 4 bpg. Not sure why that's risky.
Andy (Boston, Ma): Chad in your opinion do you think the Blazers ever seriously considered Durant? I'm kind of thinking their interaction with him had more to do with marketing than actual interest.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes, the seriously considered him. But they also got a lot of entertainment and media attention doing the things the way they did. Given their sorid past, I think it was a good think. The Blazers are back and so are their fans. That's great for the NBA.
Frank (Oregon State University): Hey there, Chad. Early word out of Portland was that Greg Oden was trying to talk Kevin Pritchard into trading to get Mike Conley Jr. Do you see any chance of that happening, or would Portland have to give up more than they are willing to, or..... ? Thanks for your time!
SportsNation Chad Ford: They are trying to get another lottery pick. Right now it doesn't look hopeful. More likely they trade Zach Randolph for a small forward later this summer. If they did get a pick, I think they'd opt for a small forward over a point guard. The Conley-Oden connection is nice, but I think they're both fine with moving on.
greg (cleveland): when the sonics select kevin durant, which player is more likely to go rashard lewis or ray allen, and if by chance u think both will go what kind of package can the cavs put together to get ray allen, a badly needed shooter
SportsNation Chad Ford: Maybe both. I think Sam Presti will be active to reshape this team around Durant. Allen is being offered. Lewis will probably be a sign-and-trade. My guess is Presti will try to build this team in the image of the Spurs. It's an exciting time Sonics fans.
Claudio (Rio, Brasil): why doesn´t Portland trade Zach for Rashard Lewis? I mean, if they are taking Oden and Seattle Durant, that would be sensible for both teams.
SportsNation Chad Ford: I don't think the two teams are into helping each other right now. They are competitors. But you're right, it does make some sense.
Dan (new jersey): Is it true that the Hawks are holding up the KG-Amare deal? How could they turn down Amare? He's got to be better than whomever they take at 3 right? Am I crazy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Whenever you have Kevin McHale and Billy Knight as the two linchpins in a KG deal ... you're asking for trouble. The problem is with ownership. As of this morning, it looks like the Hawks will be keeping at least the No. 3 pick.
Jeff (San Diego): Hi Chad, Is there any truth to the rumors that Yi could go third overall to the Hawks?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes. There's a split in management. Billy Knight wants Al Horford. Some in ownership want Yi because of certain marketing factors. I think it will be Horford. But if it's Yi, you know it's not Knight who's been steering the Titanic all of these years.
JP (Arkansas): Are the Grizz seriously considering Brewer? Is that a great idea given that he doesn't have much of an offensive game?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they are split between Mike Conley and Corey Brewer. I think it will be Conley at the end of the day. He's a franchise type point guard.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Noah is also in the mix in Memphis. They are also talking about trying to get another first round pick.
Dan (NY, NY): Ray Allen for the Celtics 5th pick and Ratliff: just a rumor?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think it was offered. I don't think the Celtics are biting.
Nick (Boston): What will the Celtics do with the 5th pick? Please tell me that it wont be Yi, i know that he had some success in China, but he doesnt seem proven to me.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Is this Bill Simmons? I think Yi would be a good pick. He has big upside. He could be a star down the road. And if you are going to move Pierce down the road, I think you take the best player available.
SportsNation Chad Ford: We have our first deal! It's a biggie!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Orlando traded the 54th pick to Houston for cash considerations! The crowd goes wild!
All the world: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Rob (new Orleans): Chad taht's not nice I thought the C's got KG
Mark, Boston: "I will now light myself on fire"
Pat, Belgium, Wisconsin: Who do you think the Bucks will pick up at No. 6?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think there's a chance they trade it. Mavs and Sixers have been trying to get in. Mavs offering Devin Harris. Sixers offering 12 and 21. Seems like both deals are worth taking for Milwaukee. If they keep the pick, I'd say Jeff Green.
Brian mpls: Any new KG rumors? What are the wolves doing at 7?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Wolves still working the KG front. Trying to find other teams to make a deal work. This late in the game, I'm not optimistic they make a deal. That leaves them with No. 7. They'll consider Noah, Hawes and Brewer (and Yi if he's there). I think they'll grab Brewer.
Scott (Fargo, ND): Please tell me no Spencer Hawes at #7 for Wolves.
SportsNation Chad Ford: The do like him, but the talk on the internet about a promise to him was bad info.
Todd, Charlotte: Any Bobcats rumblings?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they'll trade the pick. Heard that Golden State would be willing to move Monta Ellis to here if Yi was still on the board. That would be a good deal for Charlotte. Philly would like to get in. So would the Lakers. Sounds like they'll sell to the highest bidder. If they keep the pick: Brandan Wright.
Sean (Burbank, CA): Hey Chad, am I the only one who thinks Zach Randolph to the bulls for the #9 pick (and players to match money) is a good idea?
SportsNation Chad Ford: No ...unfortunatley, the Bulls don't. I do think he's the answer to all of their problems. But I also think that Scott Skiles would kill him.
Farhan (Rio Rancho, NM): What are the chances the Bulls don't pick a big? Do they really like Noah, he seems awfully redundant with Wallace and Thomas, but seems to be getting high praise from Paxson.
SportsNation Chad Ford: Noah fits their draft strategy. Winning program, active kid, plays defense. But you're right, you can't play him and Wallace or even Tyrus Thomas together ... not yet anyway. Sounds like if Noah's not there, Spencer Hawes is the guy.
Brodie (Davenport, IA): Why are the Bulls being mentioned in the Kobe trade talks but not the KG rumors?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good question. Not sure why. I think they should make a deal for Kobe. Will cost a lot, but in the East, I think they'd have a few guarnateed title runs.
Zach (Sacto): What about the Kings at 10? Are they targetting whoever falls between Noah/Wright, or will they grab a Thaddeus Young or Nick Young at that spot?
SportsNation Chad Ford: All are possibilities. But I think they like Al Thornton ... which means Ron Artest is gone.
Jim (Montclair, NJ): All other things being equal, who do you think the Bucks would prefer at point guard: Mo Williams, Devin Harris, or Mike Conley?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good question. Given their budget and desire to win now ... I think it could be Harris.
Matt (Woodstock, GA): Is there any chance Conley falls to the Hawks at 11? Any?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Nope.
John (Blaine, WA): What is the latest on the trade talk about Luke Ridnour from the Sonics going to the Hawks for the number 11 pick??
SportsNation Chad Ford: It's possible but I think the Hawks are eyeing two other guys ahead of him -- Monta Ellis and Jose Calderon. If they keep the pick, probably Acie Law.
Josh (Springfield, PA: Chad, every year the sixers get just good enough to be mediocre. This year they have a blossoming star in Igoudala, but they don't have anyone to share the load and be a co star. Do you think there's a chance they could move up? And if not who do you think of the 4 elite power forwards out there is going to fall to them at 12?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Good analysis of the team. The like Jeff Green and Yi and are trying to move up to get him. Neither guy is there if they are still on the board. I think they'd go with Julian Wright or Nick Young ... and then get a guy like Glen Davis at No. 21.
Eric (New Orleans): How about the Hornets packaging the No. 13 pick for a scoring swingman?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They can get that here at No. 13. Either Nick Young or Thaddeus Young I hear.
Tino: Wilmington, California: Who fits better for the L.A. Clippers, Acie Law or Javaris Crittendon?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They like Crittenton, but if a guy like Nick Young or Julian Wright is here ... can they really pass on him?
Tim (Pontiac, MI): Are the Pistons still targeting Rodney Stuckey at 15? Will he be there?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I don't think they are targeting him. I think if Al Thornton and Nick Young are off the board, he's the guy. If those other guys are there ... I'm not sure what they'll do. Stuckey is also getting play at No. 11.
Tyler (Olney, Md): There's some buzz on the internet that Julian Wright could fall to the Wizards at 16, is this really a possibility?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Possible, but unlikely. But someone should slip. Spencer Hawes and Thaddeus Young are also possible. If not they like Jason Smith and Marco Belinelli
Kevin (Atlanta): Do you think Sean Williams will mature or always be a head case? At what point is the risk really worth taking?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Right here ... in New Jersey. He's perfect for the Nets and worth the risk here.
Mike - Indy: Any truth to the RJ and Krstic for JO rumor?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the Nets would like O'Neal. I think the Pacers can get a better deal.
John (Bay Area): How likely is a Yi Jianlian trade to the Warriors? He would be a perfect fit, but I just don't see it happening.
SportsNation Chad Ford: They are trying. He would be a perfect fit. David Stern needs to intervene. If he doesn't, Colorado State's Jason Smith, is a very similar player to Yi.
Cameron (Louisiana): Who can the Lakers pick up in the draft or trade for to make Kobe happy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: It's looking like the Lakers may just pick here. They have tried to move up and certainly they've talked trade, but it sounds like nothing is happening in LA. I hear they like Spain's Rudy Fernandez.
Shaq: (South Beach, FL): Are the Heat going to deal for Bibby & artest?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think there's a deal there if they want it. Sounds like the Kings would like to do some housecleaning and the Heat still want to compete.
Stephen (Atlanta): Just how messed up is the Atlanta front office situation? Any chance at all they come out of this draft looking like a normal franchise?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Yes!!!! If they land a guy like Stoudemire or Jermaine O'Neal I think they will be a dangerous team in the East and Billy Knight will have some vindication. If they do nothing, the league should automatically contract them.
Josh (NYC): What is the latest from Camp Isiah? What do the Knicks have up their sleeve?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They like Sean Williams and have tried to move up in the draft. I don't think they're going to get there. The guys they like at No. 23: Wilson Chandler, Taurean Green, Daequan Cook or ... someone we've never heard of. Isiah wants to outdo himself this year. Here's an idea: Take Coby Karl from Boise State ... that would be gutsy.
Sujei (Puerto Rico): At this point and knowing how sensitive he is can the suns bring Marion back next season? thanks Chad
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think it will be a problem if Amare stays. If they eventually move him for KG, I think Marion will be fine.
Christopher (Phoenix, AZ): Any news on the Suns getting into the top 10?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the chances are very, very slim.
Let me take this one Chad: The knicks suck
Elie (San Diego): So if the Suns keep the 24 and 29 who do you think they go after? Thanks Chad
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think the like Gabe Pruitt, Rudy Fernandez, Aaron Brooks and Taurean Green.
Brad (SLC): ANy way the Jazz can move way up and land Corey Brewer? Two Brewers and a Boozer in Utah would be incredible!
SportsNation Chad Ford: Some interest in Kirilenko, but I don't think the Jazz will move him. I think maybe a guy like Morris Almond, Tiago Splitter or Arron Afflalo here.
Jerry, Taipei, Taiwan: What can my beloved Rockets do to get a PF? Any chance of drafting Sean Williams or a package of Rafer and salary cap filler to get Randolph?
SportsNation Chad Ford: I think they like Nevada's Nick Fazekas at No. 26. If they could make a move they would ... they've had some interest in Artest.
Knickerbocker (NY): Why have the Kobe-to-NY talks died? Trade Lee, Marbury/Francis, Balkman and the pick?
SportsNation Chad Ford: They never started. The Lakers won't take that junk for Kobe. Lee is the only guy on the team with real trade value.
Adam (Hartford): Spurs and Jarrod Dudley???
SportsNation Chad Ford: No one knows what the Spurs are doing. They're the most secretive team in the league. Dudley is a guess. Petteri Koponnen and Zabian Dowdell are other guesses.
Brandon (Dallas): What do the Mavs do with the no. 6 pick if they trade Devin Harris to the Bucks?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Corey Brewer?
Doug - Indy: Chad - Bird says the Pacers will get in the draft...but yet he says they don't want to get rid of any young players (Granger)...other than JO, no one has any value to get into the draft, at least the first round...what's he thinking...he has many of us wondering that lately. JO trade value seems to be losing some punch lately...is there any hope for Indy?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Pacers have a $4 million trade exception so they could take a player off the hands of a team that's strapped for cash and get a pick in return. I think O'Neal will be moved, but probably later this summer.
Josh (Toronto): Raptors? Anything??
SportsNation Chad Ford: Trying to get into the first round. Sounds like Calderon is bait. A team like the Hawks would be crazy to pass. I hear they also like Belinelli, but that would be later in the draft.
Josh (Springfield PA): Chad why is there all this talk but not a lot of action?
SportsNation Chad Ford: Because 99 percent of deals that are talked about don't happen for one reason or another. But it seems like it's been a long time since a blockbuster. Someone has to pull the trigger. Someone has to have the courage to make a deal.
Josh (Phoenix): Are you doing a final Mock Draft today? If so will it be up before 4:00 EST?
SportsNation Chad Ford: New Mock v 6.0 is up. First 14 picks are free. Will be updating throughout the day up until the draft as I hear things so check back often ...
SportsNation Chad Ford: Thanks for coming everyone ... we had over 11,000 questions today. Sorry i couldn't get to them all. Have fun on draft night!
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I agree with Ford. I think JO will be traded later this summer when the Pacers can get what they want for him..
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