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227snewfacebookfries · 7 years ago

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1. Phoenix: Deandre Ayton, Arizona, C, 7-1, 250 After his workout with the Suns, the freakishly athletic center said, “I know I’m going No. 1” and shut down workouts with anyone else. If you can’t believe a 19-year-old Bahamas-born guy with one year of college behind him, whom can you trust? 2. Sacramento: Marvin Bagley III, Duke, PF, 6-11, 235 The Kings will try another Duke product who might actually play after Harry Giles sat out his rookie season. Bagley, the ACC Player of the Year, has some range and is a force at the rim. And he’s healthy. Defensively suspect but healthy. 3. Atlanta: Jaren Jackson Jr., Michigan State, PF, 6-11, 240 What do you get the team that needs just about everything? How about a shot-blocking athlete who was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year? 4. Memphis: Luka Doncic, Slovenia, PG/SG, 6-8, 225 A do-everything, multiple-position sort, Doncic seems like a terrific complement to point guard Mike Conley and center Marc Gasol. The Grizzlies had a 21-game plunge in wins, so anyone with a pulse should help, and Doncic brings way more than that. 5. Dallas: Mohamed Bamba, Texas, C, 7-0, 225 The Mavs want anyone who can put the ball in the basket, not just hit the rim, and love Doncic. If he’s gone, Bamba, whose wingspan suggests he was a pterodactyl in a previous life, is too good to pass up. He averaged 12.9 ppg, 10.5 rpg and 3.7 bpg. 6. Orlando: Trae Young, Oklahoma, PG, 6-2, 180 The Magic have shown an astoundingly impressive ability to stink for the past seven years, failing to win 30 games five times. They hope the latest rebuild moves along behind the nation’s top scorer (27.4 points) and passer (8.7 assists). 7. Chicago: Wendell Carter, Duke, PF/C, 6-10, 260 The Bulls are likely looking for frontline help, and either Carter or Michael Porter Jr. would make sense. He’s a moose inside who can step out with some range on a creditable jumper. He’s versatile, drawing Al Horford comparisons. 8. Cleveland: Collin Sexton, Alabama, PG, 6-2, 185 Yup, a forward would make so much sense, given LeBron James’ what-the-heck-will-happen situation. But the owner tweeted about an “intriguing” prospect being worked out the day Sexton was there. He has guts and averaged 19.2 points per game. 9. Knicks: Michael Porter Jr., Missouri, SF, 6-10, 215 Mikal Bridges makes so much sense. But if Porter is here, the Knicks may gamble. He has skills, an NBA body and was a top-three, if not No. 1, pick before a back injury cost him all but three games. His Friday workout in Chicago was (at least temporarily) canceled, raising some concern. OK, lots of concern. 10. Philadelphia: Mikal Bridges, Villanova, SF, 6-7, 210 The Sixers would be so happy to get the local hero, he won’t have to check his burner phones at the door. Bridges is superb defender, shoots from 3, rebounds, does everything but create his own shot. Boston stomped Sixer wings, and he’d help. If the Knicks take him, the Sixers, who once took shot on Joel Embiid, may gamble on Porter. 11. Charlotte: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kentucky, PG, 6-6, 180 In addition to going for “Most Complicated Name Available,” the Hornets would love to find a backup for Kemba Walker or possibly the next Kemba Walker. Gilgeous-Alexander can handle, score, pass and match up with bigger wings. SEE ALSO Miles Bridges' path to the NBA doesn't look like anyone else's Miles Bridges' path to the NBA doesn't look like anyone else's 12. L.A. Clippers: Miles Bridges, Michigan State, SF/PF, 6-6, 220 A bit of a tweener in size, this Bridges is another do-everything-well, nothing-really-great guy — which a lot of folks said last year about Donovan Mitchell. Makes a lot of sense for Clips with back-to-back picks. 13. L.A. Clippers: Lonnie Walker IV, Miami, SG, 6-4, 195 Yeah, the Clips are praying one of the top point guards falls to 12/13, but that is as doubtful as an All-New York Conference Final. Walker is a still-developing athlete with explosive-type potential. Decent, not great, 3-point range (.346). 14. Denver: Zhaire Smith, Texas Tech, SG, 6-4, 200 Smith’s wondrous athleticism that sends him scurrying all over the court seems like a Nuggets match made in heaven — or opponents’ hell in the high altitude. The potential is limitless, but the execution also can be viewed as clueless. 15. Washington: Robert Williams, Texas A&M, C, 6-9 240 Welcome to the non-lottery part of our program (please drive home safely). Lots of potential — and questions — here. There’s athleticism but motivation concerns. 16. Phoenix: Kevin Knox, Kentucky, SF/PF, 6-9, 215 Only 18, the upside project was the SEC Freshman of the Year 17. Milwaukee: Kevin Huerter, Maryland, SG, 6-7, 195 Good shooter (.503) with size, has been quick riser through pre-draft process. 18. San Antonio: Troy Brown, Oregon, SF, 6-7, 220 Spurs not picking in high 20s? They need something special, and this do-it-all guy fits, although the shot needs refining. 19. Atlanta: Jerome Robinson, Boston College, SG, 6-5, 190 Another riser in pre-draft process, overall skill set makes him appealing. 20. Minnesota: Keita Bates-Diop, Ohio State, SF/PF, 6-8, 225 Averaging 19.8 points and 8.7 rebounds, he was the Big Ten Player of the Year. 21. Utah: Dzanan Musa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, SF, 6-9, 195 Excellent size and versatility. Plus, he has improved 3-point range. 22. Chicago: Chandler Hutchison, Boise State, SG, 6-7, 200 Left combine, supposedly, with first-round promise, and many think Bulls made it. 23. Indiana: Elie Okobo, France, 6-2, 180 Lefty project with high upside, size and athleticism. A project. SEE ALSO Villanova's title game hero leaving while NBA stock is high Villanova's title game hero leaving while NBA stock is high 24. Portland: Donte DiVincenzo, Villanova, SG, 6-5, 200 Final Four Most Outstanding Player shot .481 overall, .401 from 3. 25. L.A. Lakers: De’Anthony Melton, USC, PG/SG, 6-3, 195 The combo guard is one of the better backcourt perimeter defenders available. 26. Philadelphia: Mitchell Robinson, Western Kentucky, C, 7-0, 223 He enrolled but never played in college. He withdrew from the draft combine. Confident cuss, huh? Good shot-blocker, intriguing potential. 27. Boston: Jacob Evans, Cincinnati, SG/SF, 6-5, 200 Defense is a definite strength. Good jumper but consistency a worry. 28. Golden State: Aaron Holiday, UCLA, PG, 6-0, 185 Fundamentally sound, smart player, but the drawback is his size. Hey, if he lands with the Warriors, he’ll get a ring next year. 29. Nets: Hamidou Diallo, Kentucky, SG, 6-5, 195 The Nets are feverishly trying to move up. If not, this freakishly athletic wing would make sense here. And he’s local (Queens). 30. Atlanta: Josh Okogie, Georgia Tech, SG/SF, 6-4, 210 Another upside energizer who makes sense as a third first rounder for the Hawks. FILED UNDER ATLANTA HAWKS , BOSTON CELTICS , BROOKLYN NETS , CHARLOTTE BOBCATS , CHICAGO BULLS , CLEVELAND CAVALIERS , DALLAS MAVERICKS , DENVER NUGGETS , GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS , INDIANA PACERS , LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS , LOS ANGELES LAKERS , MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES , MILWAUKEE BUCKS , MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES , NBA DRAFT , NEW YORK KNICKS , ORLANDO MAGIC , PHILADELPHIA 76ERS , PHOENIX SUNS , PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS , SACRAMENTO KINGS , SAN ANTONIO SPURS , UTAH JAZZ , WASHINGTON WIZARDS https://nypost.com/2018/06/15/nba-mock-draft-a-huge-knicks-gamble-and-a-towering-top-3

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othersportsnews-blog · 8 years ago

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Zach Lowe on Kyrie Irving, the Cleveland Cavaliers and potential trades

New Post has been published on https://othersportsnews.com/zach-lowe-on-kyrie-irving-the-cleveland-cavaliers-and-potential-trades/

Zach Lowe on Kyrie Irving, the Cleveland Cavaliers and potential trades

The Cavaliers are projecting self confidence they can snare a king’s ransom for Kyrie Irving, and more than that, they are performing — for now — as if a trade is virtually inevitable, and that there is minimal opportunity of salvaging their connection with him, according to quite a few sources familiar with the scenario.

Issues can constantly transform, but that is the temper around these tense talks now.

Irving is not the initial sidekick to request a bigger role, or the initial celebrity to engineer his way out of town. This is the most up-to-date model of Carmelo Anthony and Paul George telling their groups, “I will not arrive back again,” only Irving is executing it early more than enough — with two certain several years still left on his offer — for Cleveland to desire a haul. James Harden — a identify Irving’s camp has mentioned — yearned to run his possess present, and then chafed when Dwight Howard homed in on his territory. Kobe Bryant famously clashed with Shaquille O’Neal, forcing the Lakers to select a person or the other in the conclude.

Coaches do it, much too. Most just lately, Dave Joerger basically bought himself fired from Memphis so that he could indication a richer, lengthier offer in Sacramento.

James is liable for the empowerment of the fashionable basketball celebrity, and Irving is showing how properly he has uncovered to dictate conditions right before they’re dictated to him.

Kyrie Irving expressed a willingness to return to the NBA Finals with LeBron James just two months back. Paul George was approximately a Cavalier. Now, Irving’s trade desire has thrown Cleveland for but an additional loop this offseason.

What will the Cavs do now right after Kyrie Irving’s stunning trade request? Kevin Pelton breaks down Cleveland’s four solutions heading ahead.

2 Relevant

What helps make this different, and so stunning, is Irving’s rejection of LeBron James and the certain championship contention that will come with him. Pretty much no player has at any time turned down winning at that amount. Even superstars spend an moi charge to perform in June. That is how you gain rings.

Possibly this is the hubris of a chucker doomed to .500 seasons as a No. one possibility. Possibly Irving is unwell of James. LeBron is a person of the two or 3 best gamers at any time. He helps make anyone around him greater. He can also be a glowering, intimidating, biting chief. Some role gamers — from Mike Dunleavy to J.J. Hickson — have quaked beneath the pressure of pleasing the King. Kevin Adore absorbed the glares and rolled eyes and subtweets that arrived right after every blown defensive rotation during the uglier weeks of 2016, held on to some reserve of self confidence, and stood to fight in their Sport 7 triumph. It was contact and go for a while.

Irving tailored properly, and reaped the gains of taking part in with James: a title, iconic Finals performances, an all-time shot, and advertising and marketing fame. The tradeoffs of taking part in with LeBron are constantly value it.

Possibly Irving senses James could go away, and does not want his initial shot at currently being a veteran alpha doggy to arrive amid the wrecked remains of a roster tailored for James. LeBron was never the team’s GM, as the globe joked. But every final decision was about him — about the leverage he held on quick-time period promotions, his gain-now timetable that rendered draft picks meaningless, discovering gamers that in shape him finest.

Whether Irving appreciated it or not, LeBron’s greatness deserves these types of organizational fealty.

Steady franchises tamp down these forms of moi conflicts. You have meetings, massage some personalities, tweak the playbook, gain a bunch of online games, and anyone feels greater. You empower the aggrieved, make them really feel involved. David Griffin, the Cavs deposed GM, did his finest with Irving, James, and Adore. Dan Gilbert’s inexplicable final decision to enable Griffin go produced a energy vacuum at the erroneous time.

Continue to: This is an audacious go from Irving. He led the staff in scoring and photographs past time. He held the ball lengthier than James, and touched it virtually as typically. He was much closer to LeBron in role than to Adore. He is a obtrusive minus on defense, and the Cavs have been horrific when Irving has to perform without the need of James.

He may well be in for a rude awakening now, but that is his decision, presented the Cavs honor his request.

They are performing as if they intend to. Cleveland is searching for a bundle of belongings, but the highest priority suitable now is snagging a blue-chip young player, according to sources across the league. That is not necessarily a signal they think James is leaving. They would like to get everything: a person or two veterans who can support LeBron dethrone Golden Condition, that blue-chipper, and picks. They want to put together for a worst-circumstance state of affairs of LeBron leaving without the need of shoving him out the doorway by attaining gamers he deems unready. Even so, the blue-chipper appears to be their guidepost, sources say.

The Cavs recognize DeMarcus Cousins, Jimmy Butler, and Paul George fetched what was considered disappointing return. They know potential targets who signed new promotions this summer can not be traded till December or January. They appear unfazed. Irving is twenty five, about two-and-a-half several years more youthful than Butler. He has more time still left on his offer than George, and carries none of Boogie’s baggage.

If the Cavaliers are heading to trade Kyrie Irving, it seems to be like a blue-chip young player is their key goal. Gregory Shamus/Getty Pictures

Since Irving made his request privately on July 7, Cleveland’s revamped entrance office beneath incoming general supervisor Koby Altman has studied every star trade of the past 10 years-plus, sources say. They took distinctive be aware of Phoenix flipping an disappointed Goran Dragic on an expiring deal for two initial-round picks, which includes Miami’s unprotected 2021 pick. They are capturing for the mom lode.

Most groups, which includes the asset-prosperous Celtics, have positioned the compulsory simply call allowing Cleveland know they would like to be retained in the loop, sources say. Boston could offer Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder and a person of their golden picks — Brooklyn’s pick future time, or the Lakers/Kings pick they bought from Philly in the Markelle Fultz offer. It’s unclear if they would dangle all of that, but all those picks could characterize the young stud Cleveland demands. Regardless, a offer among the East’s two finest groups would seem not likely.

Everybody would like to swap Irving for Eric Bledsoe, a good alternative who shares an agent with James. But what else is Phoenix sending? The combination of Jared Dudley, a cosy in shape around LeBron, and a potential initial-round pick almost certainly just isn’t receiving it finished — even if the Suns swallow Iman Shumpert. Phoenix just isn’t tossing in Devin Booker. Josh Jackson could be the swing piece right after Phoenix and Cleveland in fact talked around the draft about a swap involving the No. 4 pick, but the Suns had been thrilled Jackson landed there. If the Suns relent on Jackson, Cleveland and Phoenix may well capable to do the job a straightforward two-staff offer.

Tons of individuals have prompt 3-staff promotions in which the Cavaliers conclude up with both of those Bledsoe and Formal Team Banana Boat Photographer Carmelo Anthony, with Irving heading to New York, and Shumpert and Channing Frye traveling around to many non-Cleveland individuals.

It will be challenging to make all those promotions value Phoenix’s while. Potentially Frank Ntilikina and an unprotected Knicks pick would be more than enough. But the Suns presumably would like to have at minimum a person or two rotation gamers of ingesting age. Which is why the third staff in any trade is so typically a wage-dumping floor: It is challenging to incentivize 3 groups all hoping to gain the offer from a expertise point of view.

Anthony and Bledsoe also make $40.7 million blended, about $4.one million more than the Irving/Shumpert/Frye trio. That $4.one million counts virtually quadruple for a staff as significantly above the tax line as Cleveland. Lance Thomas would be a delicious side dish in any Melo offer, but he only adds more wage and tax.

We have bought you covered with the most up-to-date information, evaluation and buzz. Comprehensive coverage

• Latest buzz | Just about every offer | No cost brokers • Trade Tracker: Bradley, PG-13, more • George comes, recruitment begins • Lowe: No cost agency winners, losers • Where’s Miami heading with the promotions? • Ranking contenders on star energy • Just about every offer all thirty groups can nonetheless make • Lowe: OKC gambles massive and wins • Pelton on Larkin, Chalmers promotions

Miami could conserve Cleveland dollars by giving Dragic, Wayne Ellington, and Justise Winslow for Shumpert and Irving, but Cleveland would most likely turn up its nose except the market proves awesome. Miami can not trade any initial-round pick which is before than their 2023 assortment. Just after two bricky, injuries-riddled seasons, Winslow has to perform his way back again into blue-chip position. LeBron has minimal use for non-facilities who are not able to shoot.

Atlanta has 3 extra initial-round picks, but not the sort of roster expertise that would entice Cleveland. You could develop some exciting Atlanta-Phoenix-Cleveland mega-promotions with Bledsoe heading to the Cavs and Irving to Atlanta, but, again, the Suns constantly arrive up on the quick conclude except they have a weird jones for Dennis Schroder.

The Bucks could dangle Khris Middleton, Malcolm Brogdon, and two unprotected initial-rounders. Brogdon and Middleton are switchy defenders who both of those shot 40 per cent from deep past time — tailor-made for the Warriors. Irving would thrust Giannis Antetokounmpo off the ball, but Antetokounmpo can be effective in that role with Thon Maker spacing the flooring at middle visualize an Irving-Antetokounmpo pick-and-roll, with 3 capable shooters around it.

There are much too many pitfalls. James demands a next bucket-getter who can crack down the defense Middleton and Brogdon can do a minimal of that, but not more than enough above long stretches versus elite postseason defenses.

The Bucks will constantly be Antetokounmpo’s franchise, and he demands the ball a large amount. Is Irving Alright with that? He need to be. The two men need to be clever more than enough to lean on every single other in just a bigger system of ball movement.

That is what helps make Denver these types of an intriguing companion. The Nuggets put the ball in Nikola Jokic‘s hands in mid-December, and found out they had been sitting on the league’s most strong offense. The actualized model of Jamal Murray is the fantastic issue guard to orbit Jokic: slash all above the put for Jokic’s sling passes, run zig-zaggy handoffs with him, and place the flooring.

The recent model of Irving is a pretty different sort of player. He would like the ball. He would like the amount of regulate Jokic enjoys — and even a amount over and above that. There would be a distressing adjustment period.

But it’s possible adjustment gets to be transformation, which gets to be basketball magic. The Cavs have been terrible whenever Irving performs without the need of LeBron. Irving’s scoring in all those minutes has soared in any case, in component because he never stops capturing. Around the past two seasons, Irving has jacked about 26 photographs for every 36 minutes he performs without the need of James, per NBA.com. Only 6 gamers have at any time topped twenty five field-goal makes an attempt per 36 minutes in any time, and only a person of them — Wilt Chamberlain — did it 2 times. Even Kobe Bryant never pulled it!

In the meantime, Irving’s assist figures in all those minutes scarcely ticked up.

That sample of course captures Extreme Kyrie. But if that is the sort of player he hungers to be, he will never gain massive. Nobody would like to perform with that guy, specially when that guy provides you pretty minimal on defense.

Possibly expanding alongside a go-initial savant like Jokic is particularly what Irving demands to broaden his game. The Nuggets are developing a system around Jokic. The Cavaliers have never truly had a person, over and above asking James and Irving to do transcendent things. Folks in just the staff think that is a person reason they flat-line when James sits. He is the system. Without him, they just kinda make stuff up till he will come back again in.

And the Nuggets, determined to make the playoffs, may perhaps need to have an upgrade at issue guard except Murray is completely ready for large starter minutes. Toss apart the in shape difficulties. Murray is 20. Irving is a celebrity offensive player. Tilt his game a minimal bit more towards passing — an evolution that may well transpire naturally with Jokic and Paul Millsap flinging the ball around — and it’s possible he gets to be a person of the league’s half-dozen or so finest offensive gamers. He would also offer tickets in market that terribly demands a jolt.

The selling price would be steep. Cleveland would most likely request for Wilson Chandler, Gary Harris, Murray, and a initial-round pick. Dealing both of those Harris and Murray would blow a gap in Denver’s thrilling young main if Irving signs somewhere else in two several years, what do they have still left? They would definitely fight to retain a person, and may well even make executing so a offer-breaker.

Flipping Chandler, an essential ingredient in any Denver-Cleveland offer, would open up a void at compact ahead. Denver may well be capable to scramble with Will Barton, Juancho Hernangomez, and a minimum amount-amount no cost agent like Gerald Henderson or Arron Afflalo. Continue to: That is a issue for a staff hell-bent on generating the playoffs.

That theoretical Denver package deal isn’t going to web LeBron a common issue guard completely ready to manage as much of the large lifting as Irving has. The Nuggets could rope in Brooklyn for a 3-staff trade in which Cleveland would acquire Jeremy Lin, Chandler, Harris, and a pick — with the Nets gobbling up unwanted dollars, which includes Shumpert, for draft belongings. Denver may well retain Murray in this state of affairs, but they’d have to mail out picks.

There have been no rumblings but about Lin, or the Nets participation as a third wheel in any Irving offer, league sources say. The bond among Kenny Atkinson, Brooklyn’s coach, and Lin runs deep, and the Nets want to see how D’Angelo Russell seems to be future to Lin.

Acquiring a third staff is essential for Cleveland to acquire an additional goal that helps make sense: outdated pal Andrew Wiggins.

Wiggins helps make about $11 million fewer than Irving. Minnesota has no desirable contracts to make the dollars match, or to mail to a third staff like Phoenix that could provide Cleveland a issue guard (Bledsoe). LeBron may perhaps desire a more seasoned veteran along with Wiggins, who has never sniffed the playoffs. Minnesota can not go Jeff Teague till Dec. fifteen, which is an either an intractable challenge or an inconvenience to be waited out.

Lin could be the lever that activates 3-staff promotions in this article, much too, with Brooklyn extracting draft picks to take up Cole Aldrich and maybe a person other compact wage. Minnesota has only 11 gamers beneath deal, meaning a three-for-one offer would go away them with half a roster. Possibly that is Tom Thibodeau’s fever dream, so that he can perform anyone 40-plus minutes.

Philly’s amount of interest is unclear, but the wager in this article is that they want to settle in and see what they have. Utah’s article-Gordon Hayward roster isn’t going to offer an quick trade in shape. San Antonio’s route to a offer is murky.

I am maybe unnaturally intrigued with pairing Irving and Anthony Davis in New Orleans. Davis is virtually the perfect co-pilot for a ball-dominant issue guard. He’s a pick-and-roll dance companion who can isolate and article up when Irving demands a respite, and use the risk of his bounce shot to draw defenders out of the lane. He isn’t going to have the ball-dealing with to initiate belongings, but places his mark on them every phase of the way.

He is in essence a initial possibility without the need of all the dribbling — a trick that convinces Irving the staff is his. For this to do the job, Cleveland would have get DeMarcus Cousins as a Golden Condition bully-ball destroyer for LeBron, and a potential centerpiece who would re-indication if LeBron bolts. That leaves a large amount to opportunity.

Chicago has absolutely nothing (and never truly did over and above Jimmy Butler), and the Chris Paul dream is dead.

This is a enormous final decision for the Cavs, and for Altman — his Masai Ujiri into-the-fireplace minute. What they get for Irving, if they offer him, could outline the course of their franchise for the future half-10 years.

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junker-town · 8 years ago

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NBA mock draft 2017: Chicago Bulls trade Jimmy Butler for the No. 1 pick

Markelle Fultz is going to the Chicago Bulls after a major trade in our latest mock draft.

We like to keep things fresh with our weekly NBA mock drafts. The best way to do that is to randomize the order for each projection until lottery finally goes down on May 16.

The Lakers won our initial fake lottery draw. The Knicks came away with the No. 1 pick the second time we did it. Last week, the Sixers got the top pick and the Lakers’ pick by virtue of it falling outside the top three.

This week’s winner is the Phoenix Suns. That’s great, but ... also a little boring. So, by the power vested in me by SB Nation, we’re going to have a mega trade at the top of the draft.

The Phoenix Suns send the No. 1 pick to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Jimmy Butler. The Suns can include either Brandon Knight or Tyson Chandler to make the salaries match. Fans of both teams will probably hate it. That’s how you know it’s a good trade.

1. Chicago Bulls - Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

Let’s explain why each side might pull the trigger on this deal.

Why the Suns do it

The Suns just missed the playoffs for the seventh straight season. Phoenix has had a lot of draft picks over the last few years and put together a nice stable of young players. Devin Booker, Dragan Bender, Marquese Chriss, T.J. Warren, Tyler Ulis, Alex Len. At some point, the Suns have to think about making a move for a star to finally teach these young guns how to win.

The timing here is extremely convenient: GM Ryan McDonough is coming back for his last season under contract. If he wants to continue to be employed, it might be wise to attempt to make the playoffs for once. Another 19-year-old probably won’t help you do that. A certified top-10 overall player in the prime of his career with two affordable years under contract like Jimmy Butler will.

Why the Bulls do it

The Bulls need a fresh start. Chicago is 83-81 over the last two seasons, stuck squarely in the middle of the pack with no obvious path to contention. The Bulls thought signing Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo would make them better, but they actually got one game worse despite making the playoffs this year. Running the whole thing back again next season would be horribly distressing for the fanbase and a doomed idea from the start.

It’s hard to part with a homegrown star like Butler, but Fultz is a worthy return. He’s big (6’5) and fast, thrives in the pick-and-roll and shoots over 41 percent from three. He has every tool and incredible instincts as a scorer. There are no obvious holes in his skill set.

Phoenix gets a perennial All-Star to slot in around Eric Bledsoe, Booker and their young front court. Chicago gets to press the reset button and begin a new era with an elite point guard prospect. Objectively, this feels like it works for both sides. If Kevin Love can get traded for Andrew Wiggins, why can’t Jimmy Butler get traded for Markelle Fultz? Please tell me why I’m wrong in the comments.

2. New York Knicks - Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

What makes for a good point guard in the Triange Offense? Size, shooting, and the ability to play on or off the ball. Lonzo Ball checks all of those boxes.

The Triangle would require an adjustment from Ball. He played in a pace-and-space scheme at UCLA and immediately helped transform the Bruins into the best show in college basketball. The Knicks need a similar jolt.

Best case scenario: A special passer like Ball helps make Kristaps Porzingis one of the best players of his generation. Worst case? LaVar Ball gets into a high stakes showdown with Jackson and James Dolan that makes for great theater. Either way, we’re all winners.

3. Los Angeles Lakers - Josh Jackson, SF, Kansas

There’s already been so much hype about Ball to the Lakers, but it’s possible Josh Jackson makes even more sense given the roster. The Lakers need a defensive complement Brandon Ingram and D’Angelo Russell and also someone who can help set them up. That’s Jackson. He’s one of the best athletes and competitors in this class and should be able to make an impact from day one defensively. On offense, his playmaking ability separates him from the other wings in this class.

4. Boston Celtics - Jayson Tatum, SF, Duke

Falling to No. 4 would be a major bummer for the Celtics, but fortunately this draft is deep enough in the lottery that they will still come away with a great young talent. Jayson Tatum is exactly that. He’s a 6’8 wing with a polished scoring package and the ability to create offense from all three levels. With Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston would have two big, athletic wings at a time when those players are valued more than ever.

5. Philadelphia 76ers - Jonathan Isaac, F, Florida State

Isaac vs Malik Monk vs. the point guards (Dennis Smith Jr. and De’Aaron Fox) would make for a fascinating debate in Philly. Monk seems like the best fit on paper because of his shooting ability. Point guard could be the team’s biggest need unless you’re the proud owner of a T.J. McConnell jersey. We’ll go with Isaac here for a simple reason: he brings more to the table than anyone else left on the board.

It’s easy to see Isaac as a ceiling player because of his size (6’10), developing shooting ability and athleticism. Really, he projects as a great defensive prospect thanks to his length and quick feet. He should be able to play either forward spot for the Sixers and give them a player who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact next to Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons.

6. Orlando Magic - Dennis Smith Jr., PG, NC State

Smith might have been the most athletic point guard in college basketball this season, which is scary considering he was only a year removed from tearing his ACL. He’s an explosive rim attacker who could breathe life into a Magic organization that desperately needs it.

7. Minnesota Timberwolves - Lauri Markkanen, PF, Arizona

I don’t want to give Markkanen to the Timberwolves in every mock draft, but no one else really fills a need here. Minnesota isn’t taking De’Aaron Fox after picking Kris Dunn at No. 5 last season and Monk seems redundant with Zach LaVine already on the roster. Markkanen makes sense as an elite shooter in the front court who can add some instant offense around Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns.

8. Sacramento Kings - De’Aaron Fox, PG, Kentucky

The Kings suddenly have a promising young core with Willie Cauley-Stein, Skal Labissiere and Buddy Hield. What they need is a point guard who can push the pace, get after it defensively and put everyone else in a position to score. Fox fits the bill. He embarrassed Lonzo Ball and UCLA in the Sweet 16 and showed a unique ability to put pressure on opposing defenses throughout the year. He’d be a god send for Sacramento.

9. Dallas Mavericks - Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky

Kevin O’Connor at The Ringer had an interesting comp for Monk recently: Blazers guard C.J. McCollum. Both players are about 6’3, can get hot from deep in a hurry and thrive off dribble pull-ups. Monk is a superior athlete and McCollum is a better ball handler, but it’s an interesting comparison. The Mavs would be just fine with adding a scorer of McCollum’s caliber in this spot.

10. Sacramento Kings - Frank Ntilikina, G, France

Ntilikina is too good to pass up in this spot even after drafting De’Aaron Fox two picks earlier. He’s a 6’5 guard with quick feet and a reliable stroke from three-point range. He’s also only 18 years old, so Sacramento can take their time developing him and not worry about fit right away.

11. Charlotte Hornets - Terrance Ferguson, SG, Adelaide (NBL)

Ferguson is the type of player who could win both a dunk contest and a three-point shootout. He was considered a 5-star recruit out of high school and committed to Arizona before deciding to play professionally in Australia instead. His numbers in the NBL were underwhelming, but his physical tools are intriguing for a two guard. Charlotte could use a shooter in the backcourt.

12. Detroit Pistons - T.J. Leaf, PF, UCLA

I’ve typically had Leaf in the 20s in these mocks, but there are plenty of projections that have him as a lottery pick. We know Stan Van Gundy loves shooters at power forward and Leaf fits the profile.

13. Denver Nuggets - OG Anunoby, SF, UCLA

Anunoby tore his ACL in January and Indiana promptly collapsed after he went down. He’s a physical marvel with super long arms and explosive leaping ability around the rim. He projects as a versatile defensive forward who would fit nicely next to offense-first types in Denver like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

14. Miami Heat - Zach Collins, C, Gonzaga

The first ever one-and-done from Gonzaga, Collins has gone from a third string center at Las Vegas’ Bishop Gorman High School (behind Stephen Zimmerman and Chase Jeter) to a certified lottery pick. He broke out in the NCAA tournament by helping lead Gonzaga to the Final Four. If he didn’t get in foul trouble in the title game, the ‘Zags would probably be national champs.

15. Portland Trail Blazers - DJ Wilson, PF, Michigan

Wilson remains my pick for the guy who will shoot up draft boards after the combine. Still projected as a second rounder by DraftExpress, Wilson’s combination of size, athleticism, three-point shooting and shot blocking will make him intriguing for teams looking for front court help.

16. Chicago Bulls - Justin Jackson, SF, North Carolina

Jackson was a McDonald’s All-American out of high school who tested the draft waters last year by coming to the combine. NBA teams told him he needed to improve as a shooter and get more athletic, and that’s exactly what he did in his junior season. UNC got a national championship out of it and Jackson made himself a lot of money by boosting his draft stock. Sometimes it’s OK to go back to school.

17. Milwaukee Bucks - Donovan Mitchell, SG, Louisville

If the Bucks are committed to Giannis at point guard, they need someone who can defend lead guards at the other end. Mitchell can do that. He’s a ball of energy and athleticism who could be a combine All-Star. Louisville fans are praying he goes back for his junior year.

18. Indiana Pacers - Luke Kennard, SG, Duke

Kennard put up better numbers in the pick-and-roll than anyone in this draft as a sophomore at Duke. He’s a lights out shooter with good size for an off-guard at 6’5. As long as he can hold his own defensively, he should have a long career.

19. Atlanta Hawks - Jarrett Allen, C, Texas

Doing some work on Jarrett Allen. Maybe the draft's most 'physically intriguing' prospect. Unreal stride length/coordination, huge hands. http://pic.twitter.com/9Hg3tKlA7c

— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) April 28, 2017

Allen was Shaka Smart’s first signature recruit at Texas and was supposed to take the program to the next level. Instead, the Longhorns stumbled to an 11-22 largely because they had no true point guard. Allen might not have made a big impact on college basketball, but his tools are undeniable as a long-term prospect.

20. Portland Trail Blazers - Hamidou Diallo, SG, Kentucky

The same loop hole that allowed Thon Maker to enter the draft last season allows Diallo to do the same thing this year. He joined Kentucky mid-season but didn’t play, making him possibly the first ever one-semester-and-done prospect.

Diallo was a no-brainer 5-star recruit as a 6’6 shooting guard with a strong upper body and elite athleticism. He might need a year or two in the D-League to improve his handle and mid-range scoring package, but he looks like the rough outline of everything you want out of a two guard. He makes a lot of sense for a team like Portland with multiple first round picks.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder - Semi Ojeleye, F, SMU

OKC desperately needs a scorer on the wing who can take pressure off Russell Westbrook. Ojeleye could be that guy. He broke out in his debut season at SMU this year after transferring from Duke, where he blossomed into a versatile three-level scorer.

22. Brooklyn Nets - Harry Giles, C, Duke

Giles is another player who should be on the radar for any team with multiple first rounders. He was a legend on the AAU circuit who was considered the best player in high school basketball from a young age before repleated knee injuries slowed his rise. He didn’t look like future superstar at Duke as a freshman, but there’s still time if he can get healthy. He’s worth a flyer for a Nets team desperate for star power.

23. Toronto Raptors - Rodions Kurucs, SF, Latvia

Kurucs is a draft-and-stash prospect with great size (6’8) and developing shooting ability.

24. Utah Jazz - Kostja Mushidi, SG, Belgium

Mushidi was hitting shots all over the court at the Nike Hoop Summit in April. The Jazz can’t ride Joe Johnson forever. Maybe Mushidi could fill that role if he continues to develop his body and his game.

25. Orlando Magic - Tyler Lydon, PF, Syracuse

Lydon was a breakout freshman a year ago who helped lead Syracuse on an unlikely run to the Final Four as a No. 10 seed. Cuse missed the tournament entirely this season, but Lydon quietly had a productive sophomore season, He’s a shooter who isn’t afraid to mix things up on the glass.26. Blazers - Justin Patton, C, Creighton

27. Brooklyn Nets - Juwan Evans, PG, Oklahoma State

Evans was drawing CP3 comparisons as a recruit and mostly lived up to them during his two years at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys had the most efficient offense in the country this season and played one of the most entertaining games of the NCAA tournament in a first round loss to Michigan. Evans is short at 6-foot, but he’s bigger than Isaiah Thomas or Tyler Ulis. Those guys have done OK.

28. Los Angeles Lakers - Bam Adebayo, C, Kentucky

Adebayo is a throwback big man: he’ll clean the glass, punch home dunks and provide a big body in the paint. If he imrproves as a shooter or shot blocker long-term the Lakers could have a real steal.

29. San Antonio Spurs - Caleb Swanigan, PF, Purdue

Swanigan was the best big in college basketball as a sophomore. He led the country in double-doubles and even developed a reliable three-point shot. His biggest issue will be defending in space.

30. Utah Jazz - Isaiah Hartenstein, PF, Germany

Hartenstein moves well for a giant (7’1, 250 pounds). He’s drawn comparisons to Donatas Motiejunas.

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