2012 NBA draft prospects thread

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  • pacer4ever
    Member
    • Aug 2010
    • 17172

    Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

    Originally posted by cdash
    He's a borderline first round pick. Chad Ford has him at #39 on his Top 100.
    He looks like he is getting his mobility back. He has had a Off season he just hasn't looked the same after hurting his knee but today he is moving like last season. He remInds me a lot of Perkins. I still hope we consider him I like him better than a lot of bigs like MPlumpee. Also I really want Darius Miller he will be a solid player IMO and likely will be there late 2nd maybe even undrafted solid glue guy for the bench

    Comment

    • cdash
      Whale Shepherd
      • Jun 2009
      • 32259

      Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

      Yeah, I'm not a fan of any of the Plumlees. I do like Austin Rivers for our team though. He could be a nice sparkplug scorer off the bench. I sort of doubt he comes out, but ideally, he's a nice fit.

      The more I watch Kendall Marshall the more I like him. As we have discussed ad nauseum around here, he definitely has major weaknesses in his game, but I can't help but thinking there is a place for someone with elite passing skills in the league. He's a smart player. Smart players find ways to hide their deficiencies better.

      Comment

      • Dr. Awesome
        Member
        • Oct 2008
        • 9266

        Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

        I might retire Dr. Awesome for something Kendall Marshall related. He is so much fun to watch.

        Comment

        • Dr. Awesome
          Member
          • Oct 2008
          • 9266

          Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

          Kendall Marshall = Reggie Miller pt 2.

          Comment

          • Steagles
            @steagles1
            • Apr 2011
            • 3323

            Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

            I really like Fab Melo (Center, Syracuse) Marquis Teague (Point Guard, Kentucky) and Festus Ezeli (Center, Vanderbilt) at our 23-25 overall pick. I think all 3 will be available and should be picked in that order if available.
            Senior at the University of Louisville.
            Greenfield ---> The Ville

            Comment

            • cdash
              Whale Shepherd
              • Jun 2009
              • 32259

              Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

              Originally posted by Dr. Awesome
              Kendall Marshall = Reggie Miller pt 2.


              Why don't you sit the next couple plays out, Champ.

              Comment

              • shags
                Member
                • Nov 2004
                • 6057

                Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                I've been watching most of the Xavier - St. Bonaventure game, and Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure may be a potential pick for the Pacers in the 20s. 6'9 senior, can shoot out to 18 feet, has a solid handle for a big man, and has 8 blocks in this game.

                Comment

                • shags
                  Member
                  • Nov 2004
                  • 6057

                  Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                  Originally posted by cdash
                  Yeah, I'm not a fan of any of the Plumlees. I do like Austin Rivers for our team though. He could be a nice sparkplug scorer off the bench. I sort of doubt he comes out, but ideally, he's a nice fit.

                  The more I watch Kendall Marshall the more I like him. As we have discussed ad nauseum around here, he definitely has major weaknesses in his game, but I can't help but thinking there is a place for someone with elite passing skills in the league. He's a smart player. Smart players find ways to hide their deficiencies better.
                  My Kendall Marshall comp. Mark Jackson.

                  Comment

                  • pacer4ever
                    Member
                    • Aug 2010
                    • 17172

                    Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                    Originally posted by shags
                    I've been watching most of the Xavier - St. Bonaventure game, and Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure may be a potential pick for the Pacers in the 20s. 6'9 senior, can shoot out to 18 feet, has a solid handle for a big man, and has 8 blocks in this game.
                    He had a good game today but the dude needs to learn to pass. I have watched him 3 times this year and when you double him he cant pass out and he really struggles. But he can shoot the 3 and really score in so many way I like him to Ike Digou very skilled and talented in the post but not very smart. I wouldn't mind him in the early 2nd (where you dont have to give him a guaranteed deal) but in the 1st he is a bit risky for my taste. He could become a very good player but he will need to play much smarter at the next level.

                    We already have enough black holes we need a passing big man like a Royce White or a few others (even though he is just as risky if not more so thn Andrew)
                    Last edited by pacer4ever; 03-11-2012, 03:33 PM.

                    Comment

                    • Really?
                      BoilerUpMan
                      • Jun 2010
                      • 5702

                      Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                      CJ Leslie anyone...? or does he have the John Henson Syndrome...?
                      Why so SERIOUS

                      Comment

                      • Sparhawk
                        Member
                        • Nov 2009
                        • 6290

                        Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                        Originally posted by Really?
                        CJ Leslie anyone...? or does he have the John Henson Syndrome...?
                        I'm game if he's a SF.
                        First time in a long time, I've been happy with the team that was constructed, and now they struggle. I blame the coach.

                        Comment

                        • Really?
                          BoilerUpMan
                          • Jun 2010
                          • 5702

                          Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                          Originally posted by Sparhawk
                          I'm game if he's a SF.
                          More of a 4, but I wonder if he would be able to play any 3 as well, yeah we are not to deep at the 3, I mean Danny and PG, but if we are starting both of them when it is time to rotate in the 2nd team we are kind of lacking...

                          I think Kevin Jones could be a adequate option off the bench, he reminds me of a poor mans Josh Smith.
                          Why so SERIOUS

                          Comment

                          • pacer4ever
                            Member
                            • Aug 2010
                            • 17172

                            Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                            1.) Anthony Davis
                            Freshman 6' 10" 220lbs.
                            Kentucky
                            Is truly a rare player he can change the game without taking one shot he is going to be a multiple time DPOTY type guy he along with 4 other average defenders can probably be a top 5 defense he is just a freak and a true anchor on that end. If he keeps developing his offense he could become truly one of the most unique big men of all time. I don’t have a good comparison for him because he is so unique. If I had to name one it would be Tim Duncan but remember Duncan came out as a senior so he was a lot more polished.

                            2.) Thomas Robinson PF
                            Junior 6' 9" 240lbs.
                            Kansas
                            What's not to love he has a motor that never stops. He is a bit undersized at the PF but doesn’t let that hold him down. He may only be 6'8 but with his motor and effort and athleticism he plays like a man who is 6'11. My comparison for him is a Blake Griffin / Paul Milsap. He is a much better defender than a guy like Blake Griffin in college though he can really move his feet some of the quickest feet in this draft and he is a PF. His help defense is going to really make the pg's job in the PnR very easy he can hedge longer than most. In most drafts he is a #1 pick.


                            3.)Harrison Barnes SF
                            Sophomore 6' 8" 223lbs.
                            North Carolina
                            Some called him a disappointment after being so highly touted last season and getting out of the gate slow. The reason I love his game is because he loves playing defense. Last season he defended Reggie Jackson when they played the guard. He got lite up in the first matchup Jackson was much quicker and took advantage but he learned from that game and in the next game he made it a point to shutdown Jackson. What concerns me is his game off the dribble it isn’t as good as it should be to be a truly elite scorer. He is a terrific spot up shooter. But for him to be an elite player he needs to work on his handle and finishing. I love his post-up game it is very underrated and pretty advanced for a forward/guard. Currently my best comparison is a Loul Deng very complete player he plays both ends and a true glue guy that a coach would love to have but lacks the gift currently to be a go to guy at the next level. If he works hard though there is no doubt he has the talent to become a legit #1 option it is just up to him to fulfill that talent.

                            4.)Andre Drummond C
                            Freshman 6' 11" 251lbs.
                            Connecticut
                            This kid scares me to death he is still so very raw in so many areas I would be cautious of him. I would really have to do my homework and make sure he is a good kid and has the work ethic to really become great. He has such a rare gift physically but is so far away talent wise. But remember Big men take longer to develop so whoever takes Drummond be very patient with the kid. But his lack of offense is so scary he makes Shaq look like Reggie at the foul line.


                            5.)Perry Jones PF
                            Sophomore 6' 11" 220lbs.
                            Baylor
                            This kid is so frustrating has #1 pick type talent but at times doesn’t play like it. I truly believe he is in a bad system for his game at Baylor they play him down low. But in the long run it is good for his game to add that element. He could become a star in the nba if he becomes more aggressive and plays in a system that lets him play his game. His defensive ability/ potential is off the charts. Right now my comparison is a Jonathan Bender type skill set but in the NBA I think he plays more SF than he does at Baylor and that will help him IMO. He is a high risk high reward type guy he could be the next Anthony Randolph or Tyrus Thomas he could realize his potential and be much much more. I don’t know his back round again another guy you have to do your homework on before drafting. Be patient with the kid he can be very good especially at the SF if his future team lets him play there.


                            6.) Cody Zeller C
                            Freshman 6' 11" 215lbs.
                            IU
                            This may seem high to a lot but a player with his gifts are rare especially in a kid who really knows how to play the game and is skilled as they come at his size. The beauty in his game is versatility once he gets stronger and learns the NBA game he will be a great player IMO regardless of the system. Chris Kaman before the injuries also a smaller Andrew Bynum is another guy I compare Cody too I do think Zeller will be a better pro than Kaman. But their game is very similar imo both have great post game and a nice touch from mid-range and are solid to above average passers. Zeller is a smarter player than Kaman IMO and it really shows on the defensive side of the ball. But like most bigs you are going to have to be very patient with Cody he will need time to develop.


                            7.) Michael Kidd-Gilchrist SF
                            Freshman 6' 7" 228lbs.
                            Kentucky
                            I love this kid’s game he will be a heart and soul of a NBA team he plays 120% all the time he has a endless motor. His offense is better than he gets credit for fairly good outside of 3pt shooting. His leadership and his defense is what will be his trade market though. I like the Gerald Wallace comparison he won’t be a #1 option especially on a great team. But what he brings to a team is greater IMO than what he brings in the stat sheet.




                            8.) Jared Sullinger C
                            Sophomore 6' 9" 280lbs.
                            Ohio State
                            I know what you are thinking that is why too low for a kid of his skill level. I must say a guy like Sully really limits your offense when he is in you have to play his pace. So that rules out the teams that run and in general every NBA team runs to some existent. He is a terrific college player you can’t take that away from him but I am not very high on him NBA comparison Mike Sweetney on the low side Zach Randolph on the high side. I could see him going either way he seems to have a good work ethic and added even more to his game this year but I am very weary of guys who play overweight. He defiantly has potential to be a Zach Randolph or even a better version of him but there is a gamble just like almost every prospect.



                            9.) Damian Lillard PG
                            21 years old, 6' 2" 185lbs.
                            Weber St
                            I love this kid game have been on the bandwagon all season after about game 5. He is a terrific athlete especially considering he goes to Weber st. He is the best scorer in the draft and is as dynamic of scoring pg as they come. But what impresses me as much as his ability to put the ball in the hole is his composure and leadership he shows. He plays a terrific floor game one of the most unselfish pgs I have seen in a while. He really understands how to play basketball and it shows with the way he plays on both sides. I think he will be a + defender at the next level he really gets after it defensively. Plus it helps he is a good kid who from the research I have done wants to get better and is a great teammate. http://www.nba.com/2012/news/feature...index.htmlgood story on the kid and shows that hard work pays off and he truly is a complete player after coming back from his foot injury his work ethic IMO is off the charts. Because he truly improved only like an elite worker would improve last summer. True gym rat and you will find out I will take a great worker/gym rat who has talent over a kid without the work ethic with a little more talent. This kid fits the mold of what I want my players to be like I would love this kid on my team. He wasn’t highly touted so in a since he is a self-made man and you gotta love a kid who wants to be great and works his tail off to be just that.

                            10.) Tyler Zeller C
                            Senior 7' 0" 250lbs.
                            North Carolina
                            People are really sleeping on Zeller he has been the tar heels best player all year. I wasn't as disappointed as Larry that he went back to school but after seeing him this season I am pretty disappointed because if he comes out last year he is likley a Pacer. I think he has terrific skills great around the hoop with both hands. Has range for his size out to 17ft he is very very active on the glass takes pride in his rebounding. Best big man in the nation at running the floor he reminds me a lot of David Lee or even a Marcin Gortat who is very nimble he can do the dirty work on the glass but he is also very skilled and very good at running the floor. But Zeller should be a better defender than a David Lee at the next level.

                            11.) Jeremy Lamb SG
                            Sophomore 6' 5" 185lbs.
                            Connecticut
                            I know Sookie isnt high on the kid I don’t know why. But I really like the way he plays basketball deadly shooter and is very crafty around the rim. If I had to gripe I would say he could take more contact and get to the line more. IMO he will get to the line in the NBA his handle will improve IMO and he will add weight to the frame which IMO will really help. He is smooth like Paul George some take it for laziness but IMO that is just the pace he plays at and IMO that is a good thing. He is probably the best shot creator in the draft at Sg Austin Rivers may be slightly better but I will take Lamb's complete game over him. He plays like a Rip Hamilton currently very good off screens and can get his own shoot off the dribble. He is effective with the ball as well as off the ball main reason he is a top SG. I keep having internal debates about him Brad Beal, Ross and Rivers I just think Beal will be a much better defender at the next level and Ross has a much better overall game especially on defense. Lamb on defense is poor at times doesn’t move well laterally at all. He also at times spaces out on offense at key times in the game he needs to stay aggressive,



                            12.) Scott Machado PG
                            Senior 6'1 180 lbs.
                            IONA

                            Love everything about this kid 6'1 180 strong as a bull he also is bigger than his size. He is long armed I wouldn’t be shocked if he had a 6'5 wingspan. Great floor general and that is probably an understatement he will be a terrific pg at the next level. Not an elite athlete but after dropping 15lbs he is certainly an above average athlete. I love this kid motor one of the few pgs in this class who really wants to defend he takes pride in his defense and his goal is to make his teammates better. Really one of the rare true pgs who can score reminds me of Andre Miller one knock he plays in a weak conference so it is tough to get a true gauge of his ability. He also is much better going left than going right especially in mid-range pull ups he will need to improve his comfort level in driving to the right even though he can finish that way it isnt where it needs to be. He would be a great fit for the Suns or another team that runs a lot of PnR IMO. Where he goes in the draft will depend a lot on his workouts and the combine small school guys tend rise and fall based on the workouts due to lack of playing versus elite talent. One other note he played in a very poor offense IMO with a better offense I think he will be even better but what IONA runs under Clueless is a really bad half-court offense it reminds me a lot of what the Pacers ran with JOB. The defense they ran was even more puzzling they played a ton of zone and they had the personal to play very good man but they hardly ever did. I can see why some say his game may not transfer and in a sense he is a gamble but the kid is so talented I think he will translate really really well. Obviously if they rest of the league valued him as a 2nd rd pick I wouldn’t take him here but would buy a 2nd rd pick and take him.




                            13.) Bradley Beal SG
                            Freshman 6'4 200lbs.
                            Florida
                            He is very NBA ready smart kid and plays bigger than his list size. He is a good rebounder for his size and a good shooter. I think he made a mistake going to FL where they miss use him IMO. He is ask to be a forward and hardly ever gets to show his on ball ability. He is a very smart guy and is excellent off the ball and playing with ball dominate guards is helping develop his abilities off the ball even more. At the next level I expect him to be both on the ball and off the ball and also play just SG not the SF like at FL. I think he will be a decent to a little above average on defense at the next level he gets after it and is better than he looks on that end. I think in the right system he will be a solid starting SG in the NBA and could be a 15ppg at the SG and he is a good fit with a variety of pgs.


                            14.) Terrence Ross SG/SF
                            Sophomore 6'7 197lbs.
                            Washington

                            I think will be a great defender at the next level he really takes pride on that end of the floor. He has the ability to score the ball at a high level. He is limited off the dribble right now but shows flashes of his developing game. He is a deadly spot up shooter and of late has become a threat to beat his man and get to the hoop. Very good athlete can jump with the best of them and uses it well on both ends. The kid oozes with potential and if he lives up to it he will be a great player at the next level. Reminds me a lot of Wes Johnson if he wants to become a great player he needs to take the take step and learn to create his own shot but I believe he will he is a risky pick but at the end of the lottery he is the kind of player who may be worth the gamble, the top 5 where Wes went a few years ago isn’t the place to take a gamble unless the potential to be a top NBA player is there. But 14th is the perfect spot to take a player like him.

                            15.)Meyers Leonard C
                            Sophomore 7'1 245lbs.
                            Illinois
                            Kid has potential to be a very special player very athletic and very skilled for his size. Has tons of post moves and has a decent mid-range jumper. NBA comparison a more athletic Roy Hibbert. My only concerns is his mental state he gets really down on himself and even cried on the bench the other night. When he isn’t crying there are times he looks uninterested in the game these really concerns me. But when he plays well there is no better offensive C in college basketball. You have to wonder how much of his up and downs is Bruce Webber and the whole situation with the program in Limbo. I think Webber could do a better job on getting Leonard the ball where he can do damage. If I was Webber my #1 goal is to get the ball to Leonard and run the offense though him he is a good enough big man to run a offense though very complete game on offense. At the same times his inconsistency can really hinder that he at times just looks lazy and dull and plays with little energy and effort. On defense he is a work in progress on his man but is very good as a weak side shot blocker his PnR defense needs work but with the proper coaching it’s a correctable flaw. Again he is a big man be patient with him he should get much better on both sides of the ball. If he had more maturity he would easily be a top 10 pick.

                            16.) Terrence Jones SF/PF
                            Sophomore 6' 9" 249lbs.
                            Kentucky
                            If he didn’t have issues with his motor and body langue I could see him going higher. Dude is just skilled has a solid jumper from all over and can put the ball on the floor and score. He should be a solid forward in the NBA a bit of a tweeaner but I think he is more of a PF. I could see him in a Lamar Odom 6th man type role. He is very versatile and for that reason he is very valuable to a team if he keeps his attitude in check he should be solid. My best nba comparison is Jeff Green he plays a similar game both stretch the floor Green and both have some moves in the post but could add a lot more. I think the only thing holding Jones back is Jones himself I hope he turns it around but for that reason he is lower than he probably should be.

                            17.) Austin Rivers SG
                            Freshman 6' 4" 203lbs.
                            Duke

                            Pure scorer if he knew how to play off the ball he would be a top 10 pick for me. Best guard scorer in the draft at this current time. But his shot selection along with not being able to move well off the ball coupled with his defense not being up to par hurts his stock. However he shoots well enough that his lack of off the ball skills can be put up with for now. He is a black hole but honestly with how he can score it shouldn’t hurt his stock much. He has the best first step in the draft IMO and that helps him beat his man off the dribble at will. Depending on the team I could see him going much higher or lower. If I am a team in need of scoring like the Bucks he would be at the top of my wish list. If he learns how to play the game like a Brad Beal he would easily be the best SG in the draft. the major concern I see with Rivers is his attitude. His biggest obstacle could be himself. He shows a sense of entitlement on the court often begging for calls from referees and not always hustling for loose balls. He doesn't have an endless motor or motivation to concentrate on small details at times and while he's extremely talented He is gonna get out hustled and come across players who have a chip on their shoulders that Rivers never has had. If he can fix some of his flaws he could be one of the better players from this class. I hope he goes back to school to keep learning he needs it. Nick Young or Jamal Crawford is my best NBA comparison currently but if he improves his mental game I could see him becoming a much better player than Nick Young could only dream of.


                            18.) John Henson PF
                            Junior 6' 10" 200lbs.
                            North Carolina

                            The most improved player in college basketball this season on the offensive side of the ball. He really has a decent offensive game now which couldn’t be said in the past. Very good weak side shot blocker. His man defense needs work because of how easily he can be moved and at the NBA level that will really be exposed. He needs to add weight especially if he wants to last in the NBA he is a beanpole and his frame doesn’t look like he can add much. Reminds me a bit of Anthony Randolph and like Randolph I can see him having a hard time to stay on the floor due to his lack of strength. We will see if he can develop his body he put on 30lbs at UNC he will likely have to put on another 30lbs to be a real threat in the NBA.

                            19.) Quincy Miller SF
                            Freshman 6' 9" 200lbs.
                            Baylor

                            I hope this kid goes back to school coming off a ACL injury he has been solid this season. But he doesn’t have all of his athleticism back that had college scouts raving. He has a really solid jump shot and it's really soft. His length makes him a really nice defender. But the real question is where are you going to play this kid at the next level I think he can stay at the SF if he gets some of his quickness back. But as it is he is still a pogo stick he is really athletic for his size. I see him as mix of a few players he has some Al-Farouq Aminu in him with his length and defensive play. He has a much better jump shot then Al but the rebounding and defense is similar. His offensive game reminds me of a better shooting Trevor Ariza he can score a bit off the dribble but it isnt his stregth he can post up but he isnt strong enough yet to do it all the time. Quincy will be a mini project for the team who drafts him they will need to help him get stronger and regain his mobility. But the skill is there he is certainly worth mid to late teens pick in this draft.

                            20.)Moe Harkless SF
                            6'8" 208 lbs Freshman
                            St. Johns

                            I love this kid what cant he do?? He rebounds he defends he does all the little things and then add on top of that a pretty good offensive game. He can dribble very well for his size and is very good in the post and is just a great all around player. This kid may be one of the steals of this draft. He is silky smooth and plays much bigger than he is listed he is a very efficient scorer and IMO is very underrated in this class I really like what this kid does for a team long and athletic.

                            21.)Tony Mitchell PF/C
                            6'9" 220 lbs.
                            North Texas

                            One of the highest risk highest reward guys in the draft. He is a very good athlete and has a great feel for defense his movements on the PnR is fantastic he will really be a pgs best friend in the PnR for how much ground he can cover. He is also a great help shot blocker. He gets some of the biggest rebounds you will see he moves like a SF which really helps him when rebounding. His offensive game is very good as well great passer has range out to the 3pt line and has a good face up game. He really doesn’t have any back to the basket moves but with his soft jumper and ability to score off the dribble he has more than enoght offensive game. If he wouldn’t of had to take a year off and could of went to Mizzu last year he could easily be a top 10 pick this season. He does turn the ball over to much currently but his makes are correctable for the most part he can handle the double team and is a very good passer out of it. My main concern is the amount of plays he takes off I can’t tell if that is due to playing at North Texas or what. But if you can convince him to focus on playing with more energy like a Thomas Robinson this kid could truly be special. Like most bigs he could add another 15lbs but his frame looks like he can add that and then some. I really like this kid for the Pacers we need a athletic big like him he would need to improve in some areas but so do most prospects IMO he is worth the risk of a pick and I would maybe even draft him higher than this if I get a good vibe in the interview process. He has a Dennis Rodman type body and athletic ability he doesn’t have anywhere near a Rodman motor(but who does LOL) He defiantly has more offensive game than Rodman but I want him to model his game after Rodman he has the gifts to me the type of player Rodman was he just need to understand that. With all that said I wouldn’t be surprised if he is an all star in 6 years and I wouldn’t be surprised if he is out of the league by then. This kid really is a gamble and hopefully he gets it because his talent is truly special.
                            22.) Tony Wroten PG/SG
                            Freshman 6' 5" 180lbs.
                            Washington
                            Very gifted athlete gets to the free throw line at will. He is very tough to keep him in front of you. I would guard him a lot like Rondo his left handed jumper is probably worse than Rondo's at the same age. He does have truly elite vision but he doesn’t understand the game at the level of a Machado or Marshall. My main knock is his lack of pg abilities and his decision making is truly awful. He needs a lot more coaching if he is to stick at the pg spot. Also there have been games this year where he looks dis interested. With that said I really like this kid as a scoring SG who has really terrific defense kind of like what Iman Shumpert has done with the Knicks. I just question his ability to run a offense and be a floor general and a leader. He has the talent to be a terrific scorer so I would still draft him fairly high maybe even higher than this because of his unique skill set.


                            23.)Marquis Teague PG
                            Freshman 6' 2" 179lbs.
                            Kentucky
                            At the start of the season you could count me out as a fan of his game. But as this season has progressed he has really improved and looks to me getting better every game. His decision making was really bad at the start of the year but again each game it's improving. I like Coach Cal coaching him it can only be good for him. Ideally I hope he goes back to school. He doesn’t need the money so it is completely possible he decides to. But guys who improve like he does I really enjoy watching because it's good for the kid and good that he takes basketball serious enough to keep getting better. He is probably the fastest pg in this draft and with more growth I can see him being a very solid pg at the next level.

                            24.) Arnett Moultrie PF/C
                            Junior 6' 11" 220lbs.
                            Mississippi St.

                            First, I will start with what I don’t like really bad motor he takes a lot of plays off. Recently blamed everyone but himself for the 5 game losing streak his team is suffering though I don’t like that he did that and shows some maturity issues. He is very weak reminds me a bit of Keith Benson but much more athletic. He needs to add a ton of weight much like many guys he needs to get much stronger. He plays a bit like Deandre Jordan on offense get a bunch of easy dunks and garbage points. But he also is very skilled like a Keith Benson was he has range out to 17ft and has a decent faceup game. He is a decent defender and a good shot blocker. If he gets stronger and matures should make a good player at the next level but he needs some work and possibly a attitude adjustment. He is a nice guy to have on offense though because he will score 10-15 points without needing any plays called for him.


                            25.)James McAdoo PF
                            Freshman 6' 9" 226lbs.
                            North Carolina
                            A prospect who if he played 30mpg would be putting up better numbers IMO. His play has been lacking this year he looks, flashes the ability to be an efficient PF at times but overall is having a poor year. Being stuck behind two potential all americans he doesn’t get a lot of time. I do like his game though with that said he will certainly go back to school probably has the most to gain. I would not be surprised if he has a better NBA career than John Henson he is fairly skilled for his age and makes a ton of great basketball plays he is a smart player and one who is sneaky athletic. I want to see him as the man at UNC next year and if he keeps improving we could possibly have a MIP type sophomore season. Just like Thomas Robinson who was held back by the Morris twins this could be the case with McAdoo only time will tell. But if he did declare I would gamble on him in the late 1st rd high risk high reward type player currently.

                            26.) Patric Young PF/C
                            Sophomore 6' 9" 247lbs.
                            Florida

                            One of the few bigs in this draft who already has a true NBA body and a great athlete He is more than gifted athletically he is truly a specimen. I project him to be a very good defensive big at the next level but the offense is very limited currently. At times has a nice touch with both hands but at others he has poor touch. He is fairly raw on offense. But he is 20 years old and bigs take longer to develop and honestly you aren’t paying him for his offense but for his toughness pick setting and defense. He changes tons of shots around the basket and is a guy who can rebound very well and plays with tons of energy and has a great motor. I hear Ben Wallace as a comparison and I can see the similarities physically and style wise I think Ben is much tougher and a better defender in his prime then what I think Pat can become. But they do play the game the same way and get their points in a similar fashion. If you are a team lacking toughness and a guy who plays with defense and energy he is your man. I have him a little low on this list he will likely get drafted higher and be a solid defensive big.






                            27.) Tyshawn Taylor PG
                            Senior 6' 3" 180lbs.
                            Kansas
                            When he is playing under control there is no better pg in the nation IMO. At the same time when he is off he looks about as bad as they come at the pg spot. He has really finally started to live up to his recruiting hype this season. He can break his man down and penetrate better than any pg in this class his issue is turnovers and mediocre vision. It is kind of weird seeing a mini project player as a senior but Taylor is just that. He could be very dynamic at the next level but he is going to really have to improve his decision making (which is drastically better this year but still a long way away) With that said if I am a team that needs a pg he may be just the guy to take because it is simply rare to get a player with his gifts so late in the 1st rd. He has an incredible 1st step and may be the fastest pg in this draft with the ball in his hands really a great athlete. His scoring ability is really nice and I love his form on his jump shot and to go along with the nice form it normally goes in. He is a top 10 talent when he is playing just solid he needs to figure out a way to be solid for 35mpg not just 15mpg.


                            28.) Kendall Marshall PG
                            Sophomore 6' 4" 180lbs.
                            North Carolina
                            Not a huge fan of Marshall for the NBA. He has his head always up which in UNC’s offense is a must he may be the best outlet passer in college basketball. With that said he can’t keep a decent pg in front of him this really hurts his stock in my eyes. I can live with poor shooting and lack of offense that can be improved but his lack of defense just really puts me off. Teams often beg Marshall to shoot they leave him wide open until he makes one of two and then they will get out and guard him. If they guard him he can’t penetrate so he is really limited on what he can do in the half court and if his shot isn’t falling is a liability. If he could figure a way to get him the ball in the low post area and get some post skills that could really help his game. Then there are times Marshall plays very well on offense and hits his shots consistency will be key for him to succeed at the next level. I don’t see him becoming anything more than a backup but if he improves his consistency he may find himself in a Jose Calderon role for some team. He strives in a up-tempo offense he should be a decent backup so a team like Golden State, Denver, Phoenix along with a select others would be a good fit.

                            29.) Fab Melo C
                            Sophomore 7' 0" 250lbs.
                            Syracuse

                            I will start with what I like this year he has shown he can be a major guy in a winning situation. He is moving a lot better this season and is in much better shape. He does change a ton of shots and anchors the 2-3 zone Syracuse is famous for. I think he may need time to adjust to man defense and you will need to be patient with him. Where I am concerned he isn’t a very smart player and is very limited on offense and tends to put up a lot of bad shots when he shoots. But with that said he knows his role and rarely shoots. Really all he features on offense is a 15ft foot jumper and garbage points. His lack of work ethic scares me and his whole body of work reminds me a lot of Davis Harrison who we all know was very talent but really dumb. His skill set resembles a young Tyson Chandler who was known as a bust for awhile but eventually learned how to play the game. He will be a risky pick but if he pays off he may very well be a very good athletic defensive player at the next level. I do like the effort he has shown on defense this season he is defiantly one of the best defensive bigs in the nation and moves so well for his size. For a man of his size he loves to take charges. One of the most risky guys in this draft he could be the next desagana diop who scouts raved about his mobility and defense but was mostly a dud in the NBA. Or will he commit himself and be a very good player at the next level only his work ethic has the answer but with the 30th pick or so he is worth the gamble.

                            30.) Festus Ezeli C
                            Senior 6' 11" 255lbs.
                            Vanderbilt
                            If he wasn’t injured basically the whole season he would be going a lot higher. Festus when healthy is a fairly athletic big who is very good on defense. He moves very well for being a man of his size. The thing I loved most about Festus going into this season he showed improvement every season at Vandy and to me that is a sign of a hard worker. What concerned me was this season he wasn’t himself at all he is still limited with his bad knee. He has been better of late but the season has been pretty much a lost year for him. Going into last year he reminded me a lot of a more athletic Kendrick Perkins. Festus is going to make his living on defense he changes a lot of shots around the basket and is very good in most matchups defensively. Centers who go away from the basket do cause him problems Anthony Davis did a very good job making him guard the perimeter in their two meetings. Another thing to keep in mind Festus didn’t start playing organized basketball until his senior year in HS so he still has room to get better and if I am correct about his work ethic he may be a solid guy for the Pacers he would be a solid guy for Roy Hibbert to mentor and could become a great backup big for Roy.

                            31.) . Doron Lamb SG
                            Sophomore 6' 4" 170lbs.
                            Kentucky

                            I see him as a solid spark plug off the bench. One of the better scorers in the draft he can score off the dribble and is very lights out shooting the ball. He should find a niche on a NBA team someone I expect the Pacers to take a long look at if they don’t address the scorer off the bench elsewhere.



                            32.) Jeff Taylor SF
                            Senior 6' 7" 226lbs.
                            Vanderbilt
                            I really like Mr. Taylor and his versatility he brings. He reminds me of Landry Fields who isn’t very athletic or nor that skilled but is very smart and just makes plays. Taylor will likely fall in the draft due to being unathletic by NBA standards and being a senior(yes now a days it is a knock even though it shouldn’t be) but he will outplay many of the unathletic players who don’t know how to play basketball. In Taylor you’re getting a well-coached kid who plays the game the right way every team in the league needs at least one Jeff Taylor type players. He can make the open shot and he plays very good defense. I think he does enough that he can be a solid backup wing in the NBA just like Fields.



                            33.) Will Barton SG/SF
                            Sophomore 6' 6" 175lbs.
                            Memphis

                            Much like Harkless this kid is very underrated imo. He is a very efficient player who does more than just score. He puts the ball on the floor very well and has a good enough shot to keep defenders at bay. On defense he uses his length very well however he needs to add muscle at times bigger guys can take advantage of him. Overall Will is a solid overall player who can pass score rebound and has potential to really defends he just needs to get a little bit more committed on that side of the ball. With that said he may be the best value in this draft if he ends up going in the 2nd he is a mid 1st rd talent IMO very talented player who may make some team very happy in 5 years. He just needs to get a little stronger and in time he will develop a nice NBA body.

                            34.) John Jenkins SG
                            Junior 6' 4" 215lbs.
                            Vanderbilt
                            I talk a lot about risk versus reward and drafting safe versus risky I classify John Jenkins as one of the safest picks in the draft. I honestly don’t know how he could be a bust anyone who shoots the ball the way Jenkins does as a place in the NBA. He probably has the quickest release in the draft is just a stone cold assassin from deep. He isnt very athletic but he is very intelligent and uses screens very well and creates enough space to get open looks. If he is open for 1 second he will have more than enough time to get off his shot. I clocked him at .6 a few times on his release time which is just insane most elite quick shooters are clocked in the .7 range and .7 is super quick. I see him being a specialist at the next level a Kyle Korver , Daequan Cook or a Jodie Meeks he should be a solid rotation player for a long time in the NBA. People I have behind him will likley be better players but this guy will be a safe solid pick for some team.

                            35.) Dion Waiters SG
                            Sophomore 6' 4" 210lbs.
                            Syracuse
                            He is a winner plays a winning style very efficient. His lack of length/athleticism combo scares me. Most small SG are either very long or are very athletic he is neither imo which is why his stock is lower for me. He is a good player so hopefully he can find a niche at the next level but I wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t. Very good shooter and playmaker off the dribble he may be able to cut it on offense at the take level. But I don’t like his defense it must improve if he wants to stay in the league and he is a bit limited especially in moving laterally. But he also can improve his effort he doesn’t always fight over/under picks like he should. On offense he is a late 1st rd guy but his defense at this time isn’t close to NBA ready.

                            36.) Trey Burke PG
                            Freshman 6'1"; 180 lbs.
                            Michigan
                            I have been sleeping on this kid for far too long and I am now coming around. He still makes plenty of freshmen mistakes but he shows so many flashes of brilliance. He is a good athlete can penetrate and when he does he does a nice job of creating for his teammates. He is very good in the open floor and makes a lot of good decisions he has a great shot already and it should only get better as he matures. He is a very good floor general for just being a freshman I think he projects as a very nice pg at the next level very unselfish and does a great job of running John B’s offense. I like the effort and the way he gets after it on defense he can sometimes be over aggressive but for the most part he is solid. I would be surprised if he came out but with how great he has played this season he will get drafted late 1st early 2nd if he does imo and for good reason. In a draft of weak pgs he would be my favorite sleeper pick. I like him prospect wise much better than Darius Morris last year I would probably pick him higher depending on need.


                            37.) Myck Kabongo PG
                            Freshman 6' 1" 160lbs.
                            Texas
                            He will get drafted much higher if he comes out but the guy is a major project. The teams that drafts this kid may be smart too send him to the Dleague for a full year. I hope he stays in school his pg skills need a lot of work and he really didn’t show me much improvement this season. His decision making I really have an issue with it will need to drastically improve next season. Also his frame he is a solid defender in college just like DC2 was but DC because of his size has struggled. I hope he stays in school he really needs to work on his game.

                            38.) Jeff Withey C
                            Junior 6'11"; 240 lbs
                            Kansas

                            This guy has really emerged over the past few months. I think he will stay another year and really try to make a name to be a 1str rd pick. Not a athlete guy at all but he does do a number of things I like. He is a very good defender in the tape I watch I think he will be serviceable early in his career as a backup big. He also has some post moves that I really like he will need to add more at the next level to become even better but I think he can. I think he will be a Aaron Gray type at the next level an average to above average backup C who can spell the starter and really help the team. I think his defense is way better than Gray's was in college but they are similar on offense and in the way they move.


                            39.) Kevin Jones PF
                            Senior 6' 8" 250lbs.
                            West Virginia
                            I really like Kevin Jones really a good rebounder for his size. He is a hard-nosed guy who is going to make hustle plays and knock down open jumpers for you. He plays a lot like Tyler or a Chuck Hayes(with a little more skill). He won’t be pretty at the next level but I think he should be a very solid rotation big. Guys who play with the heart Kevin does normally finds a home in the NBA rebounding and hustle goes a long way for a NBA team.





                            40.) Royce White PF
                            Junior 6' 8" 270lbs.
                            Iowa State
                            Really the most unique big in this draft leads his team in scoring rebounding and assists. He plays a lot like a Boris Diaw I would have him higher but his work ethic I question as he is out of shape. He needs to cut weight but even Boris Diaw was effective in the league over weight(even though he is better when slim). I love his passing ability it is really something most bigs don’t have. He could really help a team who lacks ball movement. His decision making will need to get a little better his TO rate is bad. I blame a lot of that on his role in the NBA he won’t need to carry so much of the load. I would need to do research but if everything checks out he would be a solid player for the Pacers to look at. He is a risky guy and has a good chance of being a bust or if he gets it and fixs his body and work ethic he could be very underrated

                            41.). Darius Miller SF
                            Senior 6' 7" 230lbs.
                            Kentucky

                            A true glue guy for UK he does the little things a team needs. I think he could do the same thing at the next level. He defends he hits open shots and plays smart and within himself I really like this guy and would love to pick him up and have him as a backup wing. Guys who know and play their role are very valuable I think he could be the Jeff Taylor of the 2nd rd just a guy who plays a great brand of team basketball and is about the team not himself.

                            42.) Henry Sims
                            Senior 6’10 245lbs
                            Hoyas

                            Much like Royce White his best part of his game is passing. He is a very good passing big and is pretty raw for being a senior much like Roy Hibbert was. But he has improved every year in college (as a freshman he didn’t play) and has been great as of late. He would be a project player but the guy seems like he can still improve quite a bit. He is a bit risky just due to lack of court time he will need seasoning but he is the type of guy I wouldn’t mind gambling on.

                            43.) Tornike Shengelia SF/PF
                            20 years old, International
                            My favorite international player from the players I have seen from over there. He is a tough hardnosed player who has a little bit of skill. He will out work people and is athletic enough with the motor to be effective. I like him for the NBA but the Pacers already have a guy like him in Tyler. Tornike is more skilled but they are very similar he plays a lot like Jonas Jerebko and I see him in a similar role in the NBA he should be a solid player who will be good value as a 2nd rd pick. I would have him much higher but he will likely stay overseas for a few years but this is great value and has more talent than some players in front of him. He is the only Euro I have watched Evan Fournier is likely going to be a 1st rd pick but I haven’t seen him play so I can’t do a summary of his game.


                            44.) Doug McDermott PF
                            Sophomore 6' 7" 210lbs.
                            Creighton
                            Here is the thing with Doug he is so skilled on offense you almost have to draft him. But I have no clue where you play him he won’t be able to get his post shots off at the NBA level IMO unless he grows and get a lot stronger. He does shoot good enough to play the 3 offensively I just don’t think he can play it defensively. At Creighton he played mostly zone defense so I have no clue about his 1v1 defense but he was normally in the right place in help defense. He plays a lot like a less athletic Jeff Green very skilled guy but im not sure how he will transfer.

                            45.) C.J. Leslie SF/PF
                            20 years old, Sophomore
                            6' 9" 207lbs.
                            N.C. State
                            This is your prototypical 2nd rd pick an athlete who has no clue how to play the game yet. He is a big time project but he jumps out of the gym and can play the 3 or the 4. I think the team that drafts him needs to be very patient he will be a long term project. He isnt skilled enough currently to put the ball on the floor versus good defense so that is why he is more of a PF. But if he works hard I project him as a SF but he needs to get way more skilled. But if you develop him properly he may be a good player moving forward. This is where you take a gamble on just an athlete not mid-1st rd ala Gerald Green or Larry Sanders.

                            46.)Mason Plumlee PF
                            Junior 6' 11" 234lbs.
                            Duke
                            I think Mason is still a long way away from being an effective big in the NBA. He does set decent screens at times not great ones. He runs the floor well and can rebound at a decent rate along with being able to block a few shots. His offense is almost all dunks and garbage buckets he does have one or two decent post moves but to score at the next level he will need to develop a lot more which I doubt he can do. But where he really lacks awareness on both ends I don’t think he is the smartest guy especially on defense he really gets lost at times. I would shy away from Mason he could become a decent backup big if he ever gets it and gets tougher but I don’t like his areas of weakness and for that I would pass.

                            I left a few players off the list mostly players who I haven’t watched enough of like a Mike Moser, Andrew Nicholson (only watched 3 games of both so far). I will likely get around to them but haven’t yet. Napier and Boatwright if they declare I may add same with a few other players who I have watched but im not a big fan of. After the combine and closer to draft time I will finish the list and change a few things around. Players who test bad may drop a bit (although I don’t put much stock in the combine or workouts tape is much more important to me. But guys who play vs lower competition the testing is semi-important) and if someone comes up big in the tourney they may rise as well.

                            Just remember this is my opinion and will likely be wrong about a lot of players for one reason or another. Could be a bad fit by whomever drafts them or they could have bad work ethic or whatever other reason like a freak injury. Some things can’t be measured or scouted by just watching tape. I think we were all shocked when Tristan Thompson went #4 last year but the Cavs said they fell in love with his work ethic and how he approached the game. That is the one thing that is all almost impossible to figure out if the kid truly has a desire to be great and do whatever he can to succeed. Arron Afflalo is a great example he went late in the first rd because he wasn’t nearly as talented as other players. But what scouts didn’t realize is AA is one of the hardest working guys you will ever find. If the scouts would have known his desire and heart he would of went in the lottery that year not based on being a superior talent but being a hard worker who wants to be a good player. So scouting isn’t an exact science and you are going to fail from time to time especially if all you have to go on is tape and not in a FO getting to know these kids backrounds. I will close my sharing this quote which I think hits the nail on the head.
                            "Champions arenĀ“t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision" Muhammad Ali
                            Being a gym rat is good and all it’s a trait most great prospects have, but the desire to be great all the greats have like Kobe, Jordan and Bird. That quote above is why you see other great players who get overlooked be impact players at the next level and why the high picks become stars.
                            Last edited by pacer4ever; 03-12-2012, 12:15 PM.

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                            • Really?
                              BoilerUpMan
                              • Jun 2010
                              • 5702

                              Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                              Where is this list from, just wondering, did you put this together, and is this ranking or projected draft pick?

                              Thanks
                              Why so SERIOUS

                              Comment

                              • pacer4ever
                                Member
                                • Aug 2010
                                • 17172

                                Re: 2012 NBA draft prospects thread

                                Originally posted by Really?
                                Where is this list from, just wondering, did you put this together, and is this ranking or projected draft pick?

                                Thanks
                                I wrote it and it is just my current rankings not draft projection(a lot of guys will go higher or lower I see a NBA team taking Plumlee in the 1st rd but IMO he isnt a 1st rd talent). But it also depends on the team say the Pacers have the 22th pick that doesn't mean I think Tony Wroten would be the best fit for the team I just currently view him as the 22th best prospect.


                                A lot of guys I would be comfortable drafting 10 spots higher or lower again depending on the fit. Say the Bucks have the 9th pick I wouldn't mind them taking Austin Rivers because they need the scoring. I left a number of guys off I really just got tiered of writing I wanted to put it on here pre tourney. I haven't finished watching championship week so depending on how people play in that tape and the tourney I may make some changes.
                                Last edited by pacer4ever; 03-12-2012, 01:55 PM.

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