OKC: Part III - Tough ending in Milwaukee

15/6/21

2002 Finals re-match as Lakers look to defend their title against Brooklyn Nets

Game 1

Brooklyn Nets [12-4] vs Los Angeles Lakers [12-6]

Kyrie catches fire from deep as Nets take game one

BKN | 21 | 29 | 30 | 38 | 118 |
LAL | 32 | 28 | 22 | 27 | 109 |

Player of the Game: Kyrie Irving
(41pts, 6reb, 10ast, 1blk)
(15-29 FG, 8-13 3PT, 3-3 FT)

As the series began all eyes were on the LeBron versus KD match-up. It was the fourth instalment in a finals rivalry between these two era-defining stars, which Durant led 2-1 by the way. But it was Kyrie Irving who stole the show in game one.

Despite being the road team, it was the Lakers who started the game better and held a double-digit lead after the first quarter. Brooklyn fought back in the second but the Lakers kept pace with them and held on to a 10-point lead at the half.

Irving really stepped things up in the third quarter though. He got momentum back with the Nets by draining a trifecta of three pointers in the space of about a minute and a half. Durant chipped in with 10 points in the quarter and Brooklyn were within 2 points with 12 minutes left to play.

Durant and Irving continued the onslaught in the fourth, combining for 30 of the 38 points that the Nets put up in the quarter. LeBron seemed like the only Lakers player capable of scoring down the stretch. Anthony Davis and Chris Paul missed multiple opportunities to keep the contest alive.

Brooklyn eventually ran away with a 118-109 win and defended their home court advantage. Durant and Irving combined for 73 points, whilst Jarrett Allen had a huge night in the paint against Davis. He finished with 18 rebounds and 5 blocks and kept Davis to just 18 points.

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Game 2

Brooklyn Nets [13-4] vs Los Angeles Lakers [12-7]

Super-efficient performance from Davis helps Lakers even the series

BKN | 26 | 32 | 28 | 20 | 106 |
LAL | 31 | 38 | 31 | 34 | 134 |

Player of the Game: Anthony Davis
(40pts, 7reb, 3ast, 6blk)
(18-21 FG, 2-2 3PT, 2-6 FT)

Any team led by LeBron James isn't going to take a loss lying down. Especially not in the Finals.

In game two the Lakers started strongly with both LeBron and Davis scoring in double figures. Caris LaVert did his best to keep the Nets within 5 points at the first break.

Davis continued his impressive shooting in the second quarter as Jarrett Allen and DeAndre Jordan seemed unable to stop him. The Lakers extended their lead to 11 at the half and looked quite comfortable.

Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving tried to lead a comeback in the third but Davis and LeBron always seemed to have an answer. Poor shooting by the Nets in the fourth cost them any chance of winning and the Lakers ran out 134-106 winners.

Davis had an amazing night at both ends. He scored 40 points on incredibly efficient 18-21 shooting, but also grabbed 4 steals and 6 blocks as he smothered the Nets' offense. LeBron also recorded an efficient triple-double, whilst Kyrie and Durant both struggled to find their shooting stroke.

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Game 3

Los Angeles Lakers [13-7] vs Brooklyn Nets [13-5]

CP3 runs the show as Lakers go 2-1 up

LAL | 33 | 22 | 27 | 30 | 112 |
BKN | 27 | 19 | 29 | 31 | 106 |

Player of the Game: Anthony Davis
(38pts, 8reb, 2ast, 2stl, 3blk)
(16-23 FG, 1-1 3PT, 5-5 FT)

After stealing a road win the Lakers felt confident as the series headed to Los Angeles for game three.

Anthony Davis picked up where he left off in game two by scoring 14 first quarter points. The second quarter featured the most defensive play of the entire series so far. Both teams found scoring difficulty, but the Lakers still managed to increase their lead to 9 at the half.

Davis picked up his scoring again in the third quarter to match what Kyrie and Durant were doing at the other end of the floor. 36-year-old Chris Paul was orchestrating the offense beautifully. He ended up with his third-straight double-double of the series.

Brooklyn fought hard in the fourth to close the gap but it wasn't enough. Davis finished with 38 points and nailed some clutch buckets down the stretch to guide the Lakers to a 112-106 win in the end. Paul turned back the clock with his 17 points and 16 assists.

Brooklyn's lack of a third star was really showing. Even if Irving and Durant have good scoring nights it isn't always enough to combat the firepower of the Lakers.

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Game 4

Los Angeles Lakers [14-7] vs Brooklyn Nets [13-6]

Lakers now one win away from going back-to-back after game four victory

LAL | 40 | 34 | 21 | 22 | 117 |
BKN | 22 | 30 | 28 | 29 | 109 |

Player of the Game: Anthony Davis
(36pts, 11reb, 4ast, 3blk)
(14-17 FG, 4-5 3PT, 4-4 FT)

The Nets came into game four knowing that a loss would almost certainly make their dreams of a championship unreachable.

Unfortunately for them, the Lakers flew out of the blocks in the first quarter and established an 18-point lead. Things were closer in the second, but the Lakers still managed to extend the lead out beyond 20 points. Kyrie was the only Nets player really having an impact on the scoreboard.

Brooklyn did play much better in the second half, again led by Kyrie. But the combination of Davis and LeBron was enough to keep the Lakers in front and they won 117-109. Davis once gain scored over 35 points on efficient shooting, whilst Kevin Durant had a forgettable night shooting the ball.

The series now heads back to Brooklyn for game five with the Lakers leading 3-1. Recent experience has shown us that a 3-1 lead isn't insurmountable though.

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Game 5

Brooklyn Nets [13-7] vs Los Angeles Lakers [15-7]

Nets keep their hopes alive with comeback home win

BKN | 24 | 31 | 29 | 36 | 120 |
LAL | 35 | 16 | 22 | 27 | 100 |

Player of the Game: Kyrie Irving
(33pts, 1reb, 8ast, 1stl)
(13-21 FG, 7-10 3PT)

"Win or go home". The only words written on the whiteboard in the Nets locker room before game five.

Their players didn't seem to heed that advice in the first quarter though. The Lakers jumped out to an 11-point lead thanks to the usual suspects, LeBron and Anthony Davis.

But things turned around drastically in the second as Irving and Durant started getting hot from the perimeter. Brooklyn outscored the Lakers by 15 and found themselves in front by 4 points at the half.

That trend continued in the third and fourth quarters. You could really tell which team was facing elimination. Brooklyn ended up keeping themselves alive in the series with a 120-100 victory. Role players Caris LaVert (18 points) and Taurean Prince (17 points) both supported Irving and Durant wonderfully.

LeBron and Davis both had good nights for the Lakers, but Chris Paul really struggled to be effective and had his worst game of the series so far.

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Game 6

Los Angeles Lakers [15-8] vs Brooklyn Nets [14-7]

Nets win game six to force a deciding game seven in Brooklyn

LAL | 33 | 24 | 33 | 31 | 121 |
BKN | 38 | 28 | 33 | 36 | 135 |

Player of the Game: Kevin Durant
(32pts, 10reb, 9ast, 2blk)
(12-24 FG, 4-9 3PT, 6-6 FT)

The series had seemed all but over after the Lakers won game four and took a 3-1 lead. But the momentum had noticeably shifted ahead of game six in Los Angeles.

The intensity in the first quarter was immense. Both teams were playing full-throttle offense, almost like it was an all-star game. Brooklyn led by 5 points at the start of the second quarter and slowly increased that to 9 by half time.

The two teams couldn't be split in the third as Durant and LeBron had their own little personal back-and-forth contest. Irving and Durant combined in the fourth to put the game out of reach for the Lakers. Brooklyn won 135-121 and sensationally levelled the series in which they had once trailed 3-1.

Kyrie was brilliant again, with his fifth 30-point game of the series. This time Durant matched him with 32 of his own. Caris LaVert played a crucial role by contributing 20 points, which helped to keep the scoreboard ticking over when the two stars were resting.

Game seven in Brooklyn will winner takes all.

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Game 7

Brooklyn Nets [15-7] vs Los Angeles Lakers [15-9]

Nets complete comeback from 3-1 series deficit to win 2021 championship!

BKN | 26 | 27 | 30 | 35 | 118 |
LAL | 28 | 30 | 34 | 15 | 107 |

Player of the Game: Kyrie Irving
(33pts, 4reb, 10ast, 3stl)
(12-26 FG, 8-12 3PT, 1-1 FT)

Since the year 2000 there have only been five game sevens in the NBA finals. This year will be the sixth time and also the second time in as many years. The Lakers know all about the pressure of game seven after they won one against the 76ers last year to win the title.

The Nets started brightly in front of 19,000 cheering home fans at the Barclays Center. But it wasn't long before LeBron got to work. The man who had crushed 76ers hearts with a last-second dagger in game seven last year put on a show in the first half. He scored 28 points and had the Lakers up 58-53.

Brooklyn tried their hardest to cut the lead in the third quarter but LeBron just wouldn't allow them to get within two possessions. At the end of the third quarter he was sitting on 36 points and his team was up 92-83. Back-to-back titles were just 12 minutes away.

It was a time that the Nets desperately needed someone to be a hero for them. That man was Kyrie Irving. He shot an amazing 6-6 from downtown in the fourth quarter as the Lakers faltered at the other end. Anthony Davis, who was super efficient at the start of the series, couldn't make a shot to save his life now. This led to LeBron trying to force things on offense which didn't work. Brooklyn held on to win 118-107 and claim their first ever NBA championship.

Kyrie was the star again with yet another 30-point game. Jarrett Allen was massive on the boards, grabbing 17 in total.

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2021 Finals MVP

Kyrie Irving - Brooklyn Nets

There was only really one choice to win this award, Kyrie Irving. He played so well that he may have even won it if the Lakers had won the series. He scored 30 points or more in six of the seven games whilst also creating open looks for his teammates. He is only the second player since Michael Jordan in 1996 to average over 30 points per game in the finals. LeBron last season being the other.

For Kyrie this is sweet vindication. He had previously won a title with Cleveland in 2016, but LeBron took most of the plaudits for that. Beating LeBron in the finals is a pretty good way to get out of his shadow.

Wow, epic comeback for the Nets!

Wow, epic comeback for the Nets!

It was definitely a shock to see the sim results fall that way. Especially with how well Anthony Davis was shooting in the first few games.

I'm thinking that maybe the Nets don't need Harden in this universe. Maybe Houston accept a different offer or he just stays wit the Rockets

The way the sim engine works at times, they probably fail to repeat if they do get him.

The way the sim engine works at times, they probably fail to repeat if they do get him.

I swear 2k has it scripted so the sim difficulty goes up by 100% when you are trying to repeat

You definitely do wonder about that sometimes.

6/7/21

2021 Draft Lottery & Draft Preview

Draft lottery day is upon us again and for a handful of fan bases it is sadly the most exciting part of their season. They have watched as their teams have struggled for months with no reward and have endured the jokes and ridicule from opposing fans. But today they have some hope. Hope that their team will win the lottery and gain first access to a talented group of young prospects.

The Sacramento Kings have the best odds this year after finishing the season with a measly 23-59 record. They are set to have their twelfth top-ten pick since 2009. Clearly all those picks haven't really helped them improve their fortunes on the court. But perhaps the thirteenth time will be the charm in their quest to acquire a star player who can turn the franchise around.

Toronto have really regressed since Kawhi Leonard left to sign with the Clippers in 2019. They have gone from a 51-win third seed with him on their team; to a 41-win seventh seed and now a 24-win fifteenth seed in the two seasons without him. It seems likely that they will embrace a proper rebuild period now with veteran stalwart Marc Gasol likely to leave and test the free agency market. The Raptors also possess pick 15 in this draft, which they acquired from the Knicks in the Kyle Lowry trade.

Charlotte shocked everyone last year by miraculously landing the top pick despite only having the fourth-best odds. They have slightly better chance of doing it again this year after finishing with the third-worst record. Last year they took big man James Wiseman with the first pick and he lived up to the hype. He likely would have been named rookie of the year if it hadn't been for the superb season that Anthony Edwards produced. If the Hornets could add Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green or Jonathan Kuminga alongside Wiseman they may finally break away from their regular position at the bottom end of the standings.

Oklahoma City are hoping to secure a top-five selection for the second year in a row. Last year they held their position in the lottery and got the second overall pick. There is particular focus on the Thunder in this lottery draw due to the fact that Oklahoma State point guard Cade Cunningham is the touted top pick. Naturally the media like their narratives and have suggested that Sam Presti could be looking to trade up and draft Cade, assuming they don't get lucky and win the lottery. There is also the possibility of Isaiah Mobley being joined by his brother Evan at the Thunder after his impressive season put him in contention to be a top-three pick.

Chicago have two picks inside the top seven - their own and a pick from Orlando which they got in a draft night trade last year. But they will actually be hoping that the Orlando pick doesn't fall within the top three because then it would return to the Magic due to the protection placed on it. That trade has worked out slightly in the Magic's favour so far as they gave up 2020 pick 9 (Samuell Williamson) and 2021 pick 7 in order to acquire pick 5 and draft Cole Anthony. But things will probably tip back towards the Bulls on draft night considering how much better this draft class supposedly is.

2021 Lottery Draw Results

Even long after retirement Michael Jordan just keeps on winning! For the second year in a row his Charlotte Hornets have jumped up to snatch the first overall pick in the draft lottery draw. The three likely candidates for that pick appear to be Oklahoma State point guard Cade Cunningham, USC big man Even Mobley and G-League Ignite guard Jalen Green. Some draft experts are tipping Gonzaga point guard Jalen Suggs to be an outside chance after his incredibly impressive season.

After taking James Wiseman last year it is probably unlikely that Mitch Kupchak will go with Mobley. Cunningham has been the hyped prospect all year long and seems the safest bet in the same way that Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson were in previous years. We all saw the 76ers win a championship in 2019 on the back of the Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons partnership. Who's to say that Charlotte couldn't become a contender in a couple of seasons with Cunningham and Wiseman?

Sacramento fans must feel like their team is cursed at times. Having pick 2 in a strong draft isn't an awful thing, but they will likely miss out on Cade now. We can probably expect to see point guard De'Aaron Fox receive a max-level extension now as he enters restricted free agency next month. He and Cade probably would have been an awkward fit, so at least the Kings avoid that potential headache of having to choose between them.

Toronto were the only other team to move in the lottery draw. Unfortunately for them, it was downwards. But entering the draft with picks 3 and 15 isn't terrible though. Their two biggest needs are at center and shooting guard so they will probably be thrilled to land either Mobley or Green.

Oklahoma City held their position for the second year in a row. Pick 4 almost definitely means that Cade Cunningham won't be staying in Oklahoma unless Sam Presti packages up some of his hoarded assets and makes a trade with Charlotte. Speaking of assets, the Thunder also own picks 19, 22 and 27 in the first round. They swapped pick 21 for 19 from Houston because they had the rights to the best two picks out of their own, Houston's and Miami's this year. They also hold picks 41 and 42 in the second round. It is unlikely that the Thunder will use all six of their picks, so perhaps they will be looking for trades or will simply select some international players to stash overseas.

Chicago kept hold of Orlando's pick and will head into the draft with picks 5 and 7. It is a very nice hand to further strengthen their young team. A dynamic wing player may be at the top of their wish list, so keep an eye on the likes of Jonathan Kuminga, Brandon Boston, Jalen Johnson, Ziaire Williams and Scottie Barnes with their first selection. And they may well just take the best player available with pick 7 because they have a fairly good spread of young talent on their team already.

2021 Full Draft Order








2021 Team Picks Summary








NBA.com Final Mock - First Round

Could've been a worse result in the lottery, but a shame the ping pong balls weren't kinder all the same.

My luck with it seems to be pretty neutral. I never move up the order but I also never seem to lose any spots. Can't complain really.

This draft seems to have a "top 5" anyway so I'm happy with pick 4. Cunningham and Mobley would have been cool story wise (local college star + brother of one of my players, respectively), but there are some nice wing players too that would be more than handy.

17/7/20

2021 NBA Draft - First Round (Part One)

Here comes NBA commissioner Adam Silver to begin proceedings.

"I'd like to welcome everyone to the 2021 NBA draft, including the young men sitting in this room hoping to see their dreams come true today, but also the millions watching this broadcast live around the world. This is an exciting time for these young men in this room, many of whom will begin their NBA journeys today."

He then heads backstage as the clock starts ticking down for the Charlotte Hornets. Will they pick Cade Cunningham at number one as expected? Or will they throw up a curve ball?


Just a quick reminder that one trade was completed prior to the draft which affects the order in the first round. Atlanta traded rookie Jalen Smith and pick 23 to Sacramento in exchange for Bogdan Bogdanovic. Smith was taken with pick 11 last year. It could be a clue that the Kings are looking at a guard at pick 2.

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Pick 1
Charlotte Hornets

Adam Silver returns to the podium to announce the first selection.

"With the first pick of the 2021 NBA draft, the Charlotte Hornets select.. Cade Cunningham, from Oklahoma State University."


As so many had predicted, the Hornets have decided to go with the college point guard phenom who dazzled crowds in the Sooner State. Cunningham has been one of the most highly-touted prospects of the past decade, perhaps only behind the likes of Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson. His unique size and skill set as a point guard make him an extremely interesting prospect for the modern NBA.

He will link up with 2020 first overall pick James Wiseman in Charlotte. Hornets owner Michael Jordan will be hoping that these two can form a similarly dominant partnership to that of all-star pair Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons in Philadelphia. Those two led the 76ers to an upset victory in the 2019 Finals against the Warriors. Suffice to say the Hornets would love to just get back to the playoffs to start with, before they think about championships.

Amongst Cade's many strengths are his elite court vision and decision making ability. He controls the offense with maturity and has the tools to comfortably score from anywhere on the court. Cade basically has a lot of similar attributes to Simmons, except he is a couple of inches shorter and a much better shooter. Most would argue that isn't a bad trade-off with the way the league is currently dominated by elite shooters.

Former lottery pick Malik Monk will no doubt be thrilled with Cunningham's arrival. Monk averaged 21 points per game two seasons ago and had many thinking that he would take the step to becoming an all-star, but he had a slump last season and regressed to only averaging 15 points per game on a Hornets team that severely lacked quality. He should find things much easier playing alongside someone who attracts a lot of defensive attention.

Cade's arrival will undoubtedly cast the futures of Terry Rozier, Emmanuel Mudiay and Devonte' Graham into doubt now. Rozier has one-year left on the $56 million deal he signed in 2019, whilst Mudiay still has two years left on his contract worth $23 million. Graham though will be a restricted free agent next month and may find himself the odd man out. With Cunningham now likely to be given the starting role as the new face of the franchise, it seems as though Rozier and Mudiay will be fighting to lead the second unit.


2020-21 Stats: 32 Games - 24.1 PPG - 5.1 RPG - 8.6 APG - 0.5 BPG - 3.6 SPG

NBA Comparison: Grant Hill

Fan Opinion: "I'm super excited about this! The only way is up for us now with Cade and Wiseman on our team."

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WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!

Sacramento is sending pick 2 to Toronto in exchange for pick 3 and 2022 Raptors First Round Pick (Top 3 protected).


Drama straight away as the Raptors make a bold play to acquire the second overall pick from Sacramento!

It appears as though they are desperate to land USC big man Evan Mobley and felt that he wouldn't have made it past the Kings at pick two. Using a first rounder from next year to move up now is a bit risky given it could easily be another top-10 pick, but Masai Ujiri is apparently confident that Mobley is worth it. Toronto need a long-term replacement for Marc Gasol to play alongside Pascal Siakam and Mobley looks like a great prospect.

This seems like a typical Kings deal. They have passed up the opportunity at the best player available and moved down the draft in order to secure more assets. But perhaps there is method to their madness this time because that Raptors pick could be a top-10 selection in the supposedly equally as strong 2022 draft. So they still get access to Jalen Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Jalen Suggs or Ziaire Williams, but they also get another top pick in a strong draft next year. That pick could be used to add another talented youngster to their growing team or even in a trade for a more established star.

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Pick 2
Toronto Raptors

And sure enough Toronto have selected USC center Evan Mobley with the second overall pick. This is who they traded up for, presumably.

Mobley is the most gifted big man in this draft class. He had a very impressive season at USC and many people thought that he would have been a worthy number one pick. It will be interesting to see how Mobley, who was born in California and spent all his playing career there, will adapt to move to the opposite coast and living in a foreign country.

One thing is for sure though, his offensive game is very polished for a player his age. He will fill the modern big man role well, thanks to his shooting range, but he has also shown signs of becoming a solid rim protector on defense. His length, coordination and timing allow him to block and alter shots whenever an opponent dares to challenge him at the rim.

The Raptors are in a transition phase with veterans Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka likely leaving via free agency. Their core consists of 27 and 28-year-olds like Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Chris Boucher and Norman Powell. But they also have younger guys like OG Anunoby, Nico Mannion and now Mobley.

In addition to drafting Mobley the Raptors will also have pick 15 to add another young player to their team. That pick was acquired when they traded Kyle Lowry to the Knicks.


2020-21 Stats: 32 Games - 22.2 PPG - 12.3 RPG - 3.0 APG - 4.2 BPG - 1.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: LaMarcus Aldridge

Fan Opinion: "Very happy with the decision to move up and grab Mobley. Gasol is probably leaving and we just got his long-term replacement."

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Pick 3
Sacramento Kings

Now it's time to see who Sacramento go with after trading down to pick 3. And it's Jalen Green, who spent this season playing with the G-League Ignite developmental team.

An elite offensive talent, Green lit up the G-League this season and was even drawing some comparisons to Tracy McGrady. Shooting guard prospects with his combination of athleticism and shot-making ability don’t come along very often. Not many players are as fierce on the court as Kobe Bryant was, but Green has something about him that is similar.

The Kings traded Bogdan Bogdanovic to Atlanta earlier this week for Jalen Smith and pick 23, in what seemed like a tanking move. But it seems that they were making room on their roster because they knew they wanted to draft Green. We can assume the trade with the Raptors was done with the understanding that they would be taking Mobley and leaving Green to the Kings.

Being a Kings fan hasn't been easy since, well.. 1951 when the team was based in Rochester. But there are finally some reasons to get excited. Green joins a team where De'Aaron Fox is one of the best young guards in the league and seems on the verge of being an all-star, former number two pick Marvin Bagley III finally showed signs of living up to his draft position and 2020 7th overall pick Deni Avdija had a promising rookie campaign.


2020-21 Stats: 25 Games - 27.1 PPG - 7.0 RPG - 5.5 APG - 2.0 BPG - 2.5 SPG

NBA Comparison: Eddie Jones

Fan Opinion: "The Bogi trade makes a lot more sense now. Hopefully Green fits in well with Fox and Bagley."

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Pick 4
Oklahoma City Thunder

Next up are Oklahoma City with pick 4. They select Green's G-League teammate Jonathan Kuminga.

The Congolese small forward fills a big hole on the Thunder's roster. Their guard spots are already filled superbly by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards, whilst power forward Isaiah Mobley emerged as a legitimate inside scorer during his rookie campaign. Having those scoring options allows them to take a high-upside wing like Kuminga, even if he is still a little bit unpolished offensively.

Presti has developed a reputation of favouring athletes over shooters when drafting, and Kuminga certainly fits that mould. But his size and athleticism give him amazing potential to become a dominant offensive player. He routinely overpowers defenders when driving to the rim due to his solid frame and natural strength. He just needs to become more reliable with his shooting stroke.

This off-season could really set the Thunder up as a future championship contender, with their plethora of picks and the huge amount of cap space they will have available to spend in free agency. Adding Kuminga is a brilliant first step.

Oklahoma City still have picks 19, 22 and 27 to come in the first round.


2020-21 Stats: 24 Games - 11.8 PPG - 4.2 RPG - 1.5 APG - 1.0 BPG - 1.0 SPG

NBA Comparison: Shawn Marion

Fan Opinion: "I've seen this guy in the top 3 of mock drafts all season, so I'm pretty happy right now that he fell to pick 4."

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Pick 5
Chicago Bulls

The Bulls are up next with the first of their two picks inside the top ten. With pick 5 they select Gonzaga point guard Jalen Suggs.

Suggs had a great season with the Bulldogs and his scouting report makes for great reading for Bulls fans. His main strengths include great size for a point guard, his high-end athleticism and his elite basketball IQ. He is a natural born leader and a super competitor who just knows how to make the right decisions in crucial moments. As smooth as his outside shot is, it is his lightning speed which is his main offensive weapon. It allows him to drive to the basket very effectively whenever he wants to.

Chicago are a team with a lot of untapped potential. Coby White, Lauri Markkanen, Wendell Carter Jr and Samuell Williamson were all top-ten picks who haven't quite lived up to expectations yet to varying degrees. If Suggs' arrival can help even one or two of those guys take their game to the next level then suddenly the Bulls can become a playoff team once again.

Zach LaVine has developed into a solid scorer and is unquestionably the team's best player right now. But he needs more support. So perhaps the Bulls will look to use pick 7 to bring in a natural wing scorer to help take away some of the scoring burden that has been placed on him.


2020-21 Stats: 28 Games - 17.5 PPG - 4.5 RPG - 6.8 APG - 0.2 BPG - 2.9 SPG

NBA Comparison: Brandon Roy

Fan Opinion: "I thought Coby White was doing fine but I guess we just couldn't pass up taking a prospect like Suggs."

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Pick 6
Washington Wizards

Washington decide to use the sixth pick on Stanford forward Ziaire Williams.This is the third time in as many years that the Wizards have had a top-ten pick, after Rui Hachimura (Pick 9 - 2019) and Isaiah Stewart (Pick 3 - 2020).

Williams was a five-star recruit coming into college, but surprised many by choosing to attend Stanford over many more historically strong basketball schools. Nonetheless he still managed to lead his team on a decent run in the NCAA Tournament as the number one option. He showed enough at both ends on the court to justify this position in the draft.

He has got all the tools to develop into a high level NBA player, including good size for his position, excellent length and fluid athleticism. His long arms give him the potential to be an excellent defender and he is already Ben Simmons-esque with his ability to get deflections and interceptions in the passing lanes.

Wizards star Bradley Beal has shown loyalty and patience in staying with the franchise despite their poor on-court record in recent years. But as he gets closer to 30 years old that lack of success may start to weight on him and he could look to force a move to a contender. Williams developing into a quality two-way player would be a great result for Washington as it would boost their offensive power and also give them someone who could guard the LeBron's and Durant's of the league.


2020-21 Stats: 32 Games - 19.4 PPG - 6.9 RPG - 3.0 APG - 2.4 BPG - 2.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: Rudy Gay

Fan Opinion: "I really like this kid. He is like a skinny Paul George."

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Pick 7
Chicago Bulls

The Bulls are back with their second selection at pick 7 and they use it on Duke forward Jalen Johnson. For those keeping score at home that makes three Jalens picked so far, two of those by Chicago.

Johnson is a unique prospect because he is actually very accomplished ball handler for his size. One of his strengths is grabbing a defensive rebound and quickly transitioning into a fast break opportunity. His strength and athleticism really stood out against college opponents and hopefully that will mean that his transition to playing against grown men won't be an issue.

The drafting of Johnson could well spell the end of Otto Porter Jr's time in Chicago as he will be able to leave as an unrestricted free agent next month. With a replacement secured the Bulls may now look to use that cap room to strengthen other areas of their roster.

Overall the additions of Suggs and Johnson will be a massive boost for the Bulls. Their fans should be optimistic about them climbing back into playoff contention in the next couple of years.


2020-21 Stats: 35 Games - 21.9 PPG - 8.7 RPG - 3.2 APG - 3.5 BPG - 2.5 SPG

NBA Comparison: Tobias Harris

Fan Opinion: "I feel like drafting the two Jalens could be a turning point for our team."

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Pick 8
San Antonio Spurs

Next up it's San Antonio with the eighth pick. They use it to select Kentucky scoring machine Brandon Boston.

One of this season's most impressive offensive players, Boston is a versatile wing with great size and length for his position and a smooth game. He may be skinnier and weaker than other wings, but he makes up for it with a deadly outside shot.

Boston has been compared to Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram a lot. We all know how long it took Ingram to get stronger and subsequently establish himself as an offensive weapon. Boston may take similar time before he becomes truly effective against the bigger bodies of the NBA.

San Antonio are in an awkward position at the moment. They have struggled to find any success in the post-Tim Duncan era with the likes of DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge. Youngish players like Jakob Poeltl and Dejounte Murray have looked decent enough, but younger guys like Lonnie Walker IV, Keldon Johnson, Luka Samanic and Precious Achiuwa really haven't made big impressions since being drafted.

Aldridge is out of contract and a decision has to be made about whether he is worth keeping around at age 36. The Spurs aren't really a franchise that rebuilds by bottoming out, so we probably won't see DeRozan traded to a contender for draft picks. Coach Popovich is a winner and he expects the same from his players.


2020-21 Stats: 34 Games - 25.6 PPG - 4.7 RPG - 4.7 APG - 1.0 BPG - 1.6 SPG

NBA Comparison: Brandon Ingram

Fan Opinion: "Murray and Boston looks like a really nice backcourt pairing for the future."

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WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!

Detroit is sending pick 9 to Boston in exchange for pick 12 and pick 25.


This is an interesting move by Danny Ainge. He has been heavily rumoured to be targeting Australian big man Makur Maker. Cleveland were also reportedly interested in him and this trade seems to be a move to get ahead of the Cavs at pick 11. A dominant big man is something the Celtics have sorely lacked in recent years.

Detroit drop down a few spots and add another first round pick in a strong draft. They probably felt that the players they have scouted will still be available at pick 12. So this trade is a great opportunity for them to strengthen their roster with more young talent.

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Pick 9
Boston Celtics

And it indeed is Makur Maker from Howard University who the Celtics use pick 9 on. He is the cousin of former lottery pick Thon Maker.

Makur is the greatest enigma of this draft class. For years he has been hyped as the future of the NBA thanks to many video compilations posted online of him sinking three-pointers and dunking over skinny high school kids. He took his talents to Howard University and looked very impressive as a walking double-double machine and elite shot-blocker.

Unlike most players his size he is an extremely mobile and athletic player. His fondness for handling the ball on the perimeter and initiate offense means that he plays like a guard in a seven-footers body. Sometimes this works against him though because he settles for mid-range shots instead of using his height and speed to get to the basket.

It's hard to know how much ball-handling responsibilities he will have in Boston with the likes of Kemba Walker, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Green in the line-up. But he has a great opportunity to make an immediate claim to the starting center role thanks to his potential as a defensive anchor. He is far too lightweight to handle the likes of Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic at the moment, but he could have a similar effect as Rudy Gobert on anyone who tries to get to the basket.


2020-21 Stats: 18 Games - 22.8 PPG - 13.5 RPG - 3.3 APG - 3.7 BPG - 1.0 SPG

NBA Comparison: Andrew Nicholson

Fan Opinion: "I really hope this kid can deliver at the next level and isn't just another one of those over-hyped guys with flashy Youtube highlights videos."

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Pick 10
New York Knicks

With the tenth pick the New York Knicks select Florida State forward Scottie Barnes.

Many mock drafts had Barnes sitting just after the standouts in the top five, but he has somehow slipped all the way down to pick 10. It's likely that his lack of a strong perimeter shot was a big drawback for the teams above.

Barnes is the poster child for versatility, because he has the size to guard big men in the paint but also the skills to run the offense as a ball-handler. In fact, he spent most of his time this season at Florida State as the main play initiator on offense.

Another big positive is his mentality. He comes from the Russell Westbrook school of playing at 100% intensity on every possession. He is exactly the type of personality that you want on your team setting an example for others to follow.

The Knicks traded their own first round pick in this draft to Toronto in the Kyle Lowry trade, which turned out to be pick 15. But this pick is one they got from Dallas in the Kristaps Porzingis deal. Lowry is out of contract this off-season but is expected to sign an extension.


2020-21 Stats: 33 Games - 20.1 PPG - 6.7 RPG - 3.8 APG - 1.8 BPG - 1.6 SPG

NBA Comparison: Nicolas Batum

Fan Opinion: "I'm genuinely shocked that this guy fell this far and that we actually took him. Is this what it feels like to be a fan of a well-run team?"

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WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!

Cleveland is sending pick 11 to Oklahoma City in exchange for pick 19, pick 22, pick 41, a 2023 second round pick (WAS) and cash considerations ($2m).


Another trade by a team looking to move up the order! This time it's Oklahoma City. They have packaged up several draft assets in order to move their second selection up to pick 11. With all the draft capital they had acquired in recent seasons, it wasn't a huge deal for them to give up so much to make this deal. Realistically they were never going to use all of the six picks that they held in this draft.

It's unclear who they will be targeting with this pick, but clearly someone high on their draft board is still available and it prompted them to make this trade. Perhaps it is Terrence Clarke from Kentucky? Or Josh Christopher from Arizona State? Maybe it is Greg Brown from Texas? The Thunder have reportedly done some scouting of Spanish big man Usman Garuba during the season at Real Madrid. So he could also be an option.

Clearly the Cavs feel that the quality available at this point of the draft is fairly even for the next dozen picks or so. Therefore swapping out a late-ish lottery pick for two picks around the twenty mark gives them access to two players instead of just one. Receiving two second round picks and some cash on top of that is just a nice bonus.

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Pick 11
Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City select Kentucky wing Terrence Clarke with the eleventh pick. This is who they traded up to get.

After taking Jonathan Kuminga with pick 4 Sam Presti has decided to draft another superb athlete here. Clarke has elite athleticism even by NBA standards and also has an NBA-ready frame, so his transition into the league shouldn't be too difficult. His ceiling is supposedly one of the highest in this draft, but the main reason he wasn't a top 5 pick is that his decision making can be lacking. He also failed to really improve his playmaking ability and outside shooting consistency whilst at Kentucky.

Presti resisted the temptation to repeat history here by taking the shooting guard from Arizona State, Josh Christopher. Back in 2009 he drafted Sun Devils guard James Harden and that worked out pretty well for him, for a while at least. But perhaps Clarke is destined to play a similar role to what Harden did in his time with the Thunder as Rookie of the Year Anthony Edwards isn't giving up his starting spot to anyone.

The Thunder still have picks 27 and 42 remaining and it will be interesting to see what they do. We may see some draft-and-stash moves if they want to preserve roster spots ahead of free agency.


2020-21 Stats: 34 Games - 23.7 PPG - 6.7 RPG - 4.9 APG - 2.1 BPG - 3.1 SPG

NBA Comparison: Will Barton

Fan Opinion: "I watched Kentucky a lot this year and Clarke always impressed me the most. I believe he could become one of the best from this draft."

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Pick 12
Detroit Pistons

After trading down from pick 9 the Pistons have pick 12 and use it on Arizona State guard Josh Christopher.

One of the best natural scoring guards in this draft, Christopher will give the Pistons some much needed offensive power. Rookie point guard RJ Hampton averaged 17 points per game last season and if Christopher can also begin his NBA career similarly to that, then the Pistons will have their backcourt sorted for the next decade.

Right now though they rely on ageing stars Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose. The pair aren't the players they used to be but they did combine for about 40 points per game last season. Detroit are in the middle of a rebuild which has already seen them add Sekou Doumbouya and RJ Hampton in the two previous drafts. Thanks to that trade with Boston they now also have pick 25 to come in this draft.


2020-21 Stats: 30 Games - 24.1 PPG - 5.7 RPG - 4.5 APG - 1.6 BPG - 2.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: Nick Young

Fan Opinion: "A brilliant scoring guard from Arizona State? Tell me we haven't just drafted James Harden 2.0."

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Pick 13
Utah Jazz

With the thirteenth pick the Utah Jazz select big man Usman Garuba from Real Madrid in Spain.

The high energy Spaniard is a powerful and mobile power forward who has amazing length. If opponents thought that trying to score against the Jazz was difficult before with just Rudy Gobert, now they will have to contend with Garuba as well.

It remains to be seen how well Garuba adjusts to the speed of the NBA. He played both center and power forward in Spain, but at just six-foot-eight he is a bit undersized for those positions by league standards. His great strengths are as a rebounder and a versatile defender, thanks to his athleticism and length.

Offensively is where he has a lot of work to do. Currently his offense consists mostly of dunks and layups, but to his credit he has been working to improve his mid-range and outside shooting. It may be difficult for the Jazz to play both Garuba and Gobert at the same time due to their limited offensive skills, unless of course they are defending a lead.


2020-21 Stats: 21 Games - 4.4 PPG - 0.7 RPG - 1.6 APG - 0.3 BPG - 0.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: Al Horford

Fan Opinion: "I hope he turns out even half as good as the last highly-rated Euro talent that came from Real Madrid."

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Pick 14
Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers are up next and they go with Texas forward Greg Brown at pick 14.

Portland ended up with the ninth seed last season after finishing two games behind Phoenix. Star duo Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum once again led the way, with Jusuf Nurkic providing solid support. They have been looking for more talent to put around those three and 2019 first round pick Nassir Little took a step up and averaged almost 13 points per game last season. Fellow first round pick Scottie Lewis failed to show much in his rookie season.

Brown is an elite athlete who is quick and sensational above the rim. He entertained Longhorns fans with his high-flying dunks this season. His upside is undeniable, but there are a lot of things in his game that need refining. If he wants to be effective as a small forward in the NBA then he needs to improve his mid-range and perimeter shooting, as well as his ball handling.


2020-21 Stats: 34 Games - 22.4 PPG - 10.7 RPG - 2.8 APG - 3.0 BPG - 1.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: Aaron Gordon

Fan Opinion: "Seems like a decent prospect. Hopefully he gives Zach Collins some competition."

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Pick 15
Toronto Raptors

After taking Evan Mobley with pick 2 the Raptors are now back with pick 15. They select guard Mojave King.

Born in New Zealand to an American father and Kiwi mother, King moved with his family to Australia at age four and considers himself to be Australian. He intends to gain Australian citizenship and play for their national team.

As for on the court, King turned down interest from US colleges to instead spend this season playing for the Cairns Taipans in the NBL. This decision didn't really hurt his draft stock even though he didn't overly impress over there.

King seems to always be under control on the court and makes the game look easy. His shot is solid without being elite, but he has a nice array of tricks when he drives to the rim and gets challenged. At times it seems as though he actually relishes physical contact from defenders when finishing his up-and-under moves.


2020-21 Stats: 28 Games - 10.8 PPG - 1.9 RPG - 3.2 APG - 0.3 BPG - 0.8 SPG

NBA Comparison: Courtney Alexander

Fan Opinion: "I can't say that I know anything about this kid. Cool name though."

17/7/20

2021 NBA Draft - First Round (Part Two)

And we're back with the second half of the first round. So far there hasn't been too many surprises outside of the Kings trading pick 2 to Toronto.

Both the Bulls and Thunder have taken two picks and both sets of fans seem pretty happy judging by the social media reaction.

Will any hidden gems be unearthed from this portion of the draft? Will there be a Giannis or Jokic? Let's find out.

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Pick 16
Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers select Memphis center Moussa Cisse with the 16th pick.

The 2019 NBA champions rely heavily on all-star big man Joel Embiid, so it seems appropriate that they draft him some help. Cisse is only the third player born in Guinea to play in the NBA after Sekou Doumbouya and Mamadi Diakite. Hamidou Diallo's parents are from Guinea but they moved to New York before he was born.

Cisse follows in similar footsteps as fellow African big men like Serge Ibaka or Dikembe Mutombo in that his main weapon is his elite shot-blocking ability. His timing is superb, but it is his length that really makes him elite. He projects to be an difference maker at the defensive end in the NBA like Rudy Gobert.


2020-21 Stats: 33 Games - 5.6 PPG - 3.9 RPG - 1.7 APG - 0.9 BPG - 0.5 SPG

NBA Comparison: Bismack Biyombo

Fan Opinion: "This kid looks decent. But maybe a shooter would have been a better fit for us."

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Pick 17
Indiana Pacers

Next up it's Indiana with pick 17. They select North Carolina point guard Caleb Love.

The Pacers have been needing some backup for Malcolm Brogdon and Love seems like a solid pick up. He is a guy who attacks the defense using both power and quickness on his drives to the hoop. He never shies away from contact and can finish above the rim. He has a great wingspan for a guard and his frame should allow him to hold his own against NBA defenders once he puts on more muscle.

After a disappointing exit in the first round of the playoffs at the hands of Atlanta, the Pacers will be looking to take the next step in the next couple of seasons. They have a solid core of players that includes Victor Oladipo, Malcolm Brogdon, Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis but what they lack is a real stand-out star. That probably won't be Love, but he does add to their depth.


2020-21 Stats: 29 Games - 7.2 PPG - 1.2 RPG - 4.0 APG - 0.1 BPG - 1.1 SPG

NBA Comparison: Monta Ellis

Fan Opinion: "I love this pick. But seriously this kid may be just what we need."

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Pick 18
Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns use pick 18 to select Duke point guard DJ Steward. That makes it two Duke players taken in the first round already.

Steward is most effective with the ball in his hands. He prefers to cut through the defense and make his way to the rim because his outside shot is quite average. If he spends the time to improve that aspect of his game then he could become a really productive offensive tool for the Suns in a couple of seasons.

Phoenix are obviously building around all-star Devin Booker and have a nice age demographic. 2018 number one pick DeAndre Ayton is one of the best young big men is the league and a very handy number two guy on the team. Fellow former first round picks Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, Ty Jerome and Vernon Carey are all still finding their feet. But older guys like Ricky Rubio, Dario Saric and Kelly Oubre Jr helped Booker and Ayton lift the Suns to the eighth seed last season.


2020-21 Stats: 37 Games - 6.7 PPG - 1.3 RPG - 3.0 APG - 0.2 BPG - 1.2 SPG

NBA Comparison: Terry Rozier

Fan Opinion: "This kid has talent. A couple of seasons playing alongside Rubio should do him wonders."

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Pick 19
Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland finally gets to make their first selection after making that trade with Oklahoma City. They use pick 19 to take Kentucky point guard Devin Askew.

This is a surprising pick by the Cavs because they already have Collin Sexton and Darius Garland on their roster. Both young guards were top ten picks in 2018 and 2019, so it doesn't really make sense for them to draft Askew from a needs point of view. That is no knock on him though.

Talent-wise Askew is one of the best playmakers in this draft. He has a natural gift for orchestrating the offense and is quite unselfish when he sees a teammate in a better position to score. One thing that sets Askew apart from other guard prospects is his post game. He is comfortable backing his defender down into the paint and scoring with a variety of post moves.

Cleveland disappointingly missed the playoffs last season. They were expected to do much better with veterans like Kevin Love, Hassan Whiteside, Danilo Gallinari and Jordan Clarkson. Younger guys like Collin Sexton, Darius Garland, Ante Zizic, Kevin Porter Jr and Askew should improve next season and help them take a further step towards the playoffs.


2020-21 Stats: 26 Games - 10.0 PPG - 0.9 RPG - 3.8 APG - 0.0 BPG - 0.7 SPG

NBA Comparison: Andre Miller

Fan Opinion: "Just what we needed, another young point guard. Sexton and Garland aren't enough?"

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Pick 20
New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans select G-League Ignite power forward Isaiah Todd with the 20th pick. He joins teammates Jalen Green and Jonathan Kuminga in getting drafted tonight.

It is somewhat surprising that his name hadn't been read out before this point. Even though Green and Kuminga got most of the attention during the G-League season, Todd often looked like the most dominant player on the court for his team. His offensive game is already very polished and he seems to have the physical tools and skill set to be a modern NBA big man.

Todd joins a Pelicans team which has a stacked frontcourt. Obviously there is Zion Williamson as the headline act, but Steven Adams, Derrick Favors, Jaxson Hayes and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl round out one of the strongest big men rotations in the league. The competition for playing time could push these guys to greater heights or it could just cause locker room tension.


2020-21 Stats: 18 Games - 24.2 PPG - 11.6 RPG - 3.1 APG - 3.2 BPG - 1.2 SPG

NBA Comparison: Chris Bosh

Fan Opinion: "This was the guy I was hoping we could get. I'm so glad he slipped so far and we got him."

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Pick 21
Houston Rockets

And just like that a fourth member of the G-League Ignite is taken as the Houston Rockets select point guard Daishen Nix with pick 21.

Nix was probably the least impressive of the four Ignite prospects who were expected to be drafted this year. His stats don't reflect it but he is probably the top playmaker in this draft and is a true floor general. Combine that with his 6'5" frame and it's likely that he could develop into an effective facilitator in the future.

A first round exit at the hands of Golden State was a disappointing result for a team like Houston. They had much higher expectations of themselves with two MVP's in James Harden and Russell Westbrook leading them. Just like fellow contending teams Milwaukee and Philadelphia, the Rockets have lacked a third star player to put them over the top in the race for the championship. Clint Capela is a great defender, but just isn't capable of being that guy on offense.


2020-21 Stats: 27 Games - 5.0 PPG - 0.5 RPG - 0.2 APG - 0.0 BPG - 0.7 SPG

NBA Comparison: Lonzo Ball

Fan Opinion: "I barely noticed him in the G-League because of Green and Kuminga. He did some nice things though."

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Pick 22
Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland are back with the second pick they got in that trade with the Thunder. They use it to select another kid from Kentucky, power forward Isaiah Jackson.

Jackson joins a Cavs team which already has Kevin Love, Hassan Whiteside, Ante Zizic, Larry Nance Jr and Danilo Gallinari filling their frontcourt rotations. But he can offer a point of difference to most of those guys thanks to his exceptional athleticism. He has shown glimpses of a potential future as a small forward because of the way he moves for a guy his size and his ball-handling skills.

It's hard to judge what Jackson's true ceiling could be or how well his game will transition in the NBA. If he works hard in training and earns some minutes then the sky could be the limit.


2020-21 Stats: 32 Games - 20.2 PPG - 9.6 RPG - 2.4 APG - 3.1 BPG - 1.1 SPG

NBA Comparison: Amare Stoudemire

Fan Opinion: "I was actually surprised we didn't take this guy with pick 19. It all worked out though in the end."

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Pick 23
Sacramento Kings

Sacramento are back with their second selection of the first round. They use pick 23 on Croatian power forward Roko Prkacin.

Jalen Green is already in the bag so the Kings decided to split their strategy and take a big man. Prkacin will likely play at power forward in the NBA, but he has the skills to play on the wing as well. He is very skilled with the ball in his hands and his excellent court vision makes him a very gifted passer. His ability to understand the game is influenced by his father, who previously played professionally throughout Europe.

With Prkacin and Deni Avdija the Kings have two excellent young international prospects. Neither has come into the league with the same reputation or expectations as Luka Doncic, but perhaps these two guys can help push each other to get on a level similar to Luka in a few years. If that happens and Jalen Green fulfils his potential then the Kings may have the makings of a dynasty on their hands.

This is the pick the Kings got when they traded Bogdan Bogdanovic to the Atlanta Hawks.


2020-21 Stats: 25 Games - 2.4 PPG - 0.5 RPG - 1.5 APG - 0.0 BPG - 0.4 SPG

NBA Comparison: Juancho Hernangomez

Fan Opinion: "Please let this guy be more like Saric than Bender. We need a bit of luck."

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Pick 24
New Orleans Pelicans

Pick 24 is with the Pelicans and they use it to select Alabama point guard Kira Lewis Jr.

This draft has been harder than it seems for general manager David Griffin because the Pelicans have a very balanced and deep roster already. For example, Lewis will slot in behind veteran Eric Bledsoe and former number two pick Lonzo Ball in the rotation. Griffin already took Isaiah Todd with pick 20 so it makes sense that he would go for a guard here.

Lewis is a lightning quick guard who terrorizes oppositions defenders with his speed. More often than not they are unable to stay in front of him when he drives to the rim. This weapon coupled with an efficient outside shot makes him a very tough player to stop. He projects to be a very good perimeter shooter in the NBA.

One area he needs to work on is his strength. All too often on defense he gets pushed around and scored on easily. A few summers in the gym and he could become an above average two-way player for the Pelicans.


2020-21 Stats: 30 Games - 11.9 PPG - 3.0 RPG - 4.5 APG - 0.0 BPG - 2.2 SPG

NBA Comparison: Dennis Schroder

Fan Opinion: "I liked this kid in college. But it's going to be hard for him to get playing time this season with Bledsoe and Ball."

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Pick 25
Detroit Pistons

Detroit already took Arizona State shooting guard Josh Christopher with pick 12. Now they add another wing prospect with pick 25, small forward Terrence Shannon Jr from Texas Tech.

Shannon is a high-flying dunker and all-around great athlete. He is also a lefty which makes him harder to defend when he finishes at the rim. His outside shot isn't quite there yet, but it will improve over time. It just needs some time in the gym. His free throw shooting numbers were great though at 82% on the season.

The quartet of Sekou Doumbouya, RJ Hampton, Josh Christopher and Terrence Shannon is a decent foundation to base their rebuild around. If they could add a big name free agent signing after that young core has had a couple of years to develop, then the Pistons could become a very good playoff team. We know how quickly things can change in the NBA.


2020-21 Stats: 33 Games - 4.6 PPG - 1.7 RPG - 2.9 APG - 0.4 BPG - 0.8 SPG

NBA Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr

Fan Opinion: "I can see big upside with RJ, Sekou, Terrence and Josh. 2026 champions baby!"

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Pick 26
Denver Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets are next with their first selection of the draft. With pick 26 they choose power forward Kai Jones from the University of Texas.

Jones is very springy and nimble for his size. His ability to recover on the defensive end is highly impressive and he projects to be an excellent shot-blocker and overall defender in the NBA. He also has decent ball-handling ability for someone his size. But he is another prospect who will find things tough initially with the size and strength of NBA players before he spends some time in the gym.

Obviously superstar center Nikola Jokic is the centrepiece of this team. Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr and Gary Harris all stepped up to support him last season, but the Nuggets still endured a heart-breaking exit in the conference semi finals against the Clippers. The length of their youngsters is pretty crazy. Porter Jr, Jones and Bol Bol will be giving opponents nightmares for years to come.


2020-21 Stats: 33 Games - 14.1 PPG - 9.5 RPG - 2.2 APG - 3.7 BPG - 1.3 SPG

NBA Comparison: Marvin Bagley III

Fan Opinion: "Millsap isn't getting any younger and I get the feeling Jerami Grant could leave in free agency. I like this pick."

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Pick 27
Oklahoma City Thunder

Here are Oklahoma City with their third selection of the draft. With pick 27 they select Serbian big man Aleksej Pokusevski.

Pokusevski is an extremely raw European prospect who has a huge upside. The seven-footer can play at either forward position thanks to his height and skill set. Despite his height, he is not a traditional big man who will be mixing it up in the paint. Instead he is more perimeter-oriented, as a playmaker and shooter. He is basically a shooting guard that has the body of a center.

Sam Presti is really taking the long view with this selection. Pokusevski legitimately looks like he will need to spend two or three summers working out in the gym before he is capable of handling the physicality of the NBA. We have seen before that this type of player doesn't always adapt. We must remember that for every Kristaps Porzingis there is a Dragan Bender.

We may have to wait until after free agency is done and dusted before we find out if he is coming over immediately or if he will be stashed in Europe for a season. The Thunder have a lot of young players already and may prefer to use a roster spot on a veteran player who can mentor them.


2020-21 Stats: 22 Games - 2.0 PPG - 2.9 RPG - 0.1 APG - 0.1 BPG - 0.2 SPG

NBA Comparison: Toni Kukoc

Fan Opinion: "We have a million picks so we may as well take a gamble on this kid. Highlights look promising."

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Pick 28
Golden State Warriors

Next are the Golden State Warriors. They use pick 28 on Senegalese big man Ibou Dianko Badji, who spent last season with Barcelona in Spain.

This guy is one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft. It's not every day that you see a guy who is 7'1" and moves up and down the court as well as Badji does. All throughout this season he has been getting Dikembe Mutombo comparisons and it really looks like he will be an elite shot blocker in the NBA. His offensive game is still very raw right now, but if you lob the ball above the rim he will dunk it.

We all know the strengths that the Warriors possess. Two of the greatest shooters in NBA history for starters and a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate in Draymond Green. They rediscovered their form last season and reached the conference finals before being eliminated by the Lakers. Even though their time-lines don't really match-up, having a defensive anchor like Badji should help Steph and Klay massively in their twilight seasons.


2020-21 Stats: 31 Games - 14.6 PPG - 13.1 RPG - 2.5 APG - 3.3 BPG - 1.1 SPG

NBA Comparison: Dikembe Mutombo

Fan Opinion: "Steph and Klay can shoot everything now and this guy will just grab any misses and send it back out for them to try again!"

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Pick 29
Los Angeles Clippers

The Los Angeles Clippers use pick 29 on Oregon combo forward Lok Wur.

Wur is a smooth athlete who seems to glide across the court. He is very quick and agile and should be a solid defensive player in the NBA. Outside shooting seems to be the most valued trait these days and Wur does have a lot of improving to do in that area. But he is working on it and it has shown gradual improvement over the course of the season.

This might be one of the highest picks that the Clippers have for a long while after they traded away their 2022, 2024 and 2026 first round picks to Oklahoma City in the Paul George trade. The Thunder also got the rights to swap picks in 2023 and 2025. So far all the Clippers have to show for that trade is a conference semi finals appearance in 2020 and a conference finals appearance in 2021.

With Kawhi Leonard entering the final year of his current deal it seems imperative that the Clippers win the championship next season. Anything short of that may lead him to consider a move in search of success. Milwaukee could easily make salary cap room for him to play alongside Giannis and Middleton. Maybe the more realistic option is him joining LeBron and Anthony Davis at the Lakers, who have Chris Paul's $44 million salary come off their books next off-season. Maybe he would like to go play in Dallas alongside Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis and LaMelo Ball?


2020-21 Stats: 30 Games - 14.9 PPG - 7.6 RPG - 2.4 APG - 2.8 BPG - 1.7 SPG

NBA Comparison: Luol Deng

Fan Opinion: "This kid seems like another high-energy guy like Montrezl. I like those type of guys."

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Pick 30
Brooklyn Nets

The NBA champions have the final pick in the first round of the 2021 draft. Brooklyn select Kentucky wing Keion Brooks Jr.

Brooks is a versatile player who does a lot of things well, but nothing brilliantly. He is an average athlete by NBA standards and his outside shot is still a work in progress. Perhaps his best attribute is the energy and passion he brings every time he steps onto the court. Very much one of those great locker room guys that every successful team needs.

Brooklyn are riding high after their epic comeback win in the finals against the Lakers. Superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving will lead the way in their title defense, with support from Spencer Dinwiddie, Caris LaVert and DeAndre Jordan. Big man Jarrett Allen had a breakout season and will undoubtedly attract interest during free agency. Rumours suggest that the Nets may let him walk due to how highly they rate Onyeka Okongwu, who they believe can step into Allen's role immediately.


2020-21 Stats: 34 Games - 15.9 PPG - 5.3 RPG - 1.9 APG - 2.1 BPG - 2.1 SPG

NBA Comparison: Kenny Thomas

Fan Opinion: "Very solid player at Kentucky this season. He can learn a lot from Durant."

18/7/21

2021 NBA Draft Full Summary

The 2021 NBA draft provided another night of excitement and suspense as dozens of young men had their dreams of playing in the NBA realised.

Everything started out as expected when the Hornets drafted Cade Cunningham with the first pick. But then the first big drama of the night occurred almost immediately after as the Kings traded pick 2 to Toronto for pick 3 and a future pick. Toronto were desperate to land big man Evan Mobley. It may have been a move that the Raptors didn't need to make because all indications seem to suggest that the Kings would have taken Jalen Green at number two anyway. But Masai Ujiri wasn't taking any chances.

Chicago did very well with both of their top-ten picks. Funnily enough they drafted two players named Jalen, Suggs and Johnson respectively. Both players have exceptional upside and add to the Bulls young core. Lauri Markkanen, Wendell Carter Jr and Coby White all averaged over 14 points per game last season. They look on track to improve on the disappointing 31 wins they managed last season.

Boston made the decision to trade up to pick 9 in order to secure Australian big man Makur Maker. Adding a rim protector to their team seems to have been their prime objective, with the likes of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown dominating on the perimeter already.

Were Oklahoma City the biggest winners on the night? Apart from maybe Sacramento they were certainly the busiest, taking three picks in the first round and making two trades. The Thunder managed to add Jonathan Kuminga, Terrence Clarke and Aleksej Pokusevski to their team which already boasts some extraordinary young talent. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards will be gunning for all-star selection next season if they continue on the trajectory that they are currently on.

Commissioner Adam Silver will be pleased to see four players from the G-League Ignite team were drafted in the first round (Jalen Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Isaiah Todd and Daishen Nix). It proves that the G-League is a viable path to the NBA and it could encourage future prospects to shun the college route and instead showcase their talents in the G-League. Kai Sotto was also drafted in the second round so that made it five players from the Ignite. There were also ten international players drafted in total, which shows the global nature of the game.

As far as steal of the draft is concerned, perhaps the Knicks taking Obi Toppin at pick 33 or the Jazz taking Josh Giddey at pick 37 are the pick of the bunch.

Two feel good stories of the draft came from the 76ers and Bucks. Philadelphia acquired pick 42 from the Thunder and then used it to select Zaire Wade, son of hall-of-famer Dwyane Wade. Whilst the Bucks drafted Alex Antetokounmpo, another brother of superstar Giannis. Alex is the fourth brother to make the NBA, with Giannis & Thanasis at the Bucks and Kostas at the Lakers.

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Draft transactions

Pre-Draft

Atlanta receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic
Sacramento receive: Jalen Smith, Pick #23


Draft Night

Sacramento receive: Pick #3, 2022 Raptors first round pick (Top 3 protected)
Toronto receive: Pick #2


Boston receive: Pick #9
Detroit receive: Pick #12, Pick #25


Cleveland receive: Pick #19, Pick #22, Pick #41, 2023 Wizards second round pick, Cash considerations ($2m)
Oklahoma City receive: Pick #11


Oklahoma City receive: 2022 Thunder second round pick, Cash considerations ($400k)
Philadelphia receive: Pick #42


Houston receive: 2022 Kings second round pick
Sacramento receive: Pick #45, Cash considerations ($200k)


Golden State receive: Pick #48
Memphis receive: 2025 Warriors second round pick, Cash considerations ($200k)


Brooklyn receive: 2023 Knicks second round pick, Cash considerations ($100k)
New York receive: Pick #60

1/9/21

Off-Season Summary: Eastern Conference

Atlanta

Contract Options: Trae Young ($8.3m/Team), De'Andre Hunter ($7.7m/Team), Cam Reddish ($4.7m/Team), Kevin Huerter ($4.3m/Team), Josh Jackson ($4m/Team)

Re-Signings: John Collins ($158m/5 years) (PO), Ivan Rabb ($2.1m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Derrick White ($22m/3 years), Serge Ibaka ($22m/2 years) (PO), Rajon Rondo ($8m/2 years), TJ McConnell ($1.7m/1 year), Nicolo Melli ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Andre Roberson (Houston), Shabazz Napier (Free Agent), Damian Jones (Free Agent), Brandon Goodwin (Free Agent), Marco Belinelli (Retired)

Draft Picks: -

Trades

• Atlanta receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic
• Sacramento receive: Jalen Smith, Pick #23

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Andre Drummond - John Collins - De'Andre Hunter - Bogdan Bogdanovic - Trae Young

Reserves
Serge Ibaka, Derrick white, Kevin Huerter, Cam Reddish, Ivan Rabb, Nicolo Melli, TJ McConnell, Rajon Rondo, Josh Jackson, Bruno Fernando

Head Coach: Lloyd Pierce

Boston

Contract Options: Romeo Langford ($3.8m/Team), Robert Williams III ($3.7m/Team), Grant Williams ($2.6m/Team)

Re-Signings: Jayson Tatum ($158m/5 years) (PO), Daniel Theis ($12m/2 years)

Arrivals: Doug McDermott ($6m/2 years)

Departures: Gordon Hayward (Charlotte), Enes Kanter (Miami), Vincent Poirier (Free Agent), Semi Ojeleye (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Makur Maker (pick 9), Paul Eboua (pick 55), Malcolm Cazalon (2020 pick 44)

Trades

• Boston receive: Pick #9
• Detroit receive: Pick #12, Pick #25

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Makur Maker - Jayson Tatum - Jaylen Brown - Marcus Smart - Kemba Walker

Reserves
Robert Williams, Daniel Theis, Killian Hayes, Doug McDermott, Malcolm Cazalon, Grant Williams, Romeo Langford, Carsen Edwards, Filip Petrusev, Paul Eboua

Head Coach: Brad Stevens

Brooklyn

Contract Options: Spencer Dinwiddie ($12.3m/Player), Joe Harris ($7.8m/Team), Dzanan Musa ($3.6m/Team)

Re-Signings: -

Arrivals: Reggie Jackson ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Jarrett Allen (San Antonio), Rodions Kurucs (Free Agent), Henry Ellenson (Free Agent), Markus Howard (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Keion Brooks Jr (pick 30), Bryan Antoine (pick 32), Jaemyn Brakefield (pick 54)

Trades

• Brooklyn receive: 2023 Knicks second rounder, Cash considerations ($100k)
• New York receive: Pick #60

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Onyeka Okongwu - Kevin Durant - Joe Harris - Caris LaVert - Kyrie Irving

Reserves
Spencer Dinwiddie, DeAndre Jordan, Nicolas Claxton, Johnny Juzang, Bryan Antoine, Dzanan Musa, Taurean Prince, Reggie Jackson, Keion Brooks Jr, Jaemyn Brakefield

Head Coach: Steve Nash

Charlotte

Contract Options: Miles Bridges ($5.4m/Team), PJ Washington ($4.2m/Team)

Re-Signings: Malik Monk ($44m/4 years), Marquese Chriss ($23m/3 years), Jalen McDaniels ($1.5m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Gordon Hayward ($120m/4 years), Hamidou Diallo ($1.7m/1 year), Kelly Olynyk ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Cody Zeller (Phoenix), Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers), Devonte' Graham (Milwaukee), Dwayne Bacon (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Cade Cunningham (pick 1)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
James Wiseman - Gordon Hayward - Miles Bridges - Malik Monk - Cade Cunningham

Reserves
Terry Rozier, PJ Washington, Marquese Chriss, Emmanuel Mudiay, Kelly Olynyk, Bryn Forbes, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Hamidou Diallo, Jalen McDaniels, Cody Martin

Head Coach: James Borrego

Chicago

Contract Options: Wendell Carter Jr ($6.9m/Team), Coby White ($5.9m/Team), Daniel Gafford ($1.8m/Team), Ochai Agbaji ($1.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Lauri Markkanen ($90m/4 years)

Arrivals: Mike Scott ($1.7m/1 year), Kyle O'Quinn ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Otto Porter Jr (Detroit), Chandler Hutchison (Indiana), Ryan Arcidiacono (Free Agent), Cristiano Felicio (Free Agent), Adam Mokoka (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Jalen Suggs (pick 5), Jalen Johnson (pick 7), Patrick Williams (pick 35)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Wendell Carter Jr - Lauri Markkanen - Jalen Johnson - Zach LaVine - Coby White

Reserves
Jalen Suggs, Thaddeus Young, Kris Dunn, Tomas Satoransky, Mike Scott, Kyle O'Quinn, Patrick Williams, Samuell Williamson, Daniel Gafford, Ochai Agbaji

Head Coach: Billy Donovan

Cleveland

Contract Options: Darius Garland ($7m/Team), Collin Sexton ($6.4m/Team), Dylan Windler ($2.2m/Team), Kevin Porter Jr ($2.1m/Team), Neemias Queta ($1.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Ante Zizic ($48m/4 years) (PO)

Arrivals: Immanuel Quickley ($1m/1 year)

Departures: Wesley Matthews (LA Lakers), Tyler Johnson (Free Agent), Kenneth Faried (Free Agent), Neemias Queta (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Devin Askew (pick 19), Isaiah Jackson (pick 22), Isaac Okoro (pick 41)

Trades

• Cleveland receive: Pick #19, Pick #22, Pick #41, 2023 Wizards second rounder, Cash considerations ($2m)
• Oklahoma City receive: Pick #11

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Hassan Whiteside - Kevin Love - Danilo Gallinari - Collin Sexton - Darius Garland

Reserves
Jordan Clarkson, Ante Zizic, Larry Nance Jr, Cedi Osman, Devin Askew, Isaiah Jackson, Kevin Porter Jr, Isaac Okoro, Dylan Windler, Immanuel Quickley

Head Coach: JB Bickerstaff

Detroit

Contract Options: Sekou Doumbouya ($3.6m/Team), Devidas Sirvydis ($1.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Luke Kennard ($24m/3 years), Derrick Rose ($16m/2 years) (PO), Jordan Bone ($1.5m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Jerami Grant ($60m/3 years), Otto Porter Jr ($27m/3 years) (PO), Jonathon Simmons ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Christian Wood (Miami), Tony Snell (Free Agent), Khyri Thomas (Free Agent), Svi Mykhailiuk (Free Agent), Louis King (Free Agent), Yante Maten (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Josh Christopher (pick 12), Terrence Shannon Jr (pick 25), Walker Kessler (pick 58)

Trades

• Boston receive: Pick #9
• Detroit receive: Pick #12, Pick #25

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Nerlens Noel - Blake Griffin - Otto Porter Jr - Luke Kennard - RJ Hampton

Reserves
Derrick Rose, Jerami Grant, Willy Hernangomez, Josh Christopher, Devidas Sirvydis, Sekou Doumbouya, Terrence Shannon Jr, Jonathon Simmons, Walker Kessler, Jordan Bone

Head Coach: Dwayne Casey

Indiana

Contract Options: Aaron Holiday ($4m/Team), Goga Bitadze ($3.1m/Team)

Re-Signings: -

Arrivals: Chandler Hutchison ($8m/2 years), Rondae Hollis-Jefferson ($6m/2 years), Ed Davis ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: TJ McConnell (Atlanta), Doug McDermott (Boston), Patrick Patterson (Oklahoma City), Miles Plumlee (Free Agent), Mac McClung (Free Agent), TJ Leaf (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Caleb Love (pick 17), Jamari Sibley (pick 43), Keyontae Johnson (pick 50)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Myles Turner - Domantas Sabonis - TJ Warren - Victor Oladipo - Malcolm Brogdon

Reserves
Aaron Holiday, Jeremy Lamb, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Caleb Love, Chandler Hutchison, Goga Bitadze, Edmond Sumner, Jamari Sibley, Keyontae Johnson, Ed Davis

Head Coach: Nate Bjorkgren

Miami

Contract Options: Tyler Herro ($4m/Team)

Re-Signings: Bam Adebayo ($158m/5 years), Duncan Robinson ($40m/4 years), Dion Waiters ($1.7m/1 year), Skal Labissiere ($1.7m/1 year), Tacko Fall ($1.5m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Dennis Schroder ($52m/4 years), Christian Wood ($46m/4 years), Enes Kanter ($4m/1 year), Jonah Bolden ($2m/1 year)

Departures: Goran Dragic (Golden State), Kelly Olynyk (Charlotte), James Johnson (Philadelphia)

Draft Picks: -

Trades

• Memphis receive: Justise Winslow
• Miami receive: 2024 Warriors first rounder

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Bam Adebayo - Christian Wood - Jimmy Butler - Tyler Herro - Dennis Schroder

Reserves
Duncan Robinson, Theo Maledon, Kendrick Nunn, Derrick Jones Jr, Enes Kanter, Jonah Bolden, Skal Labissiere, Dion Waiters, Keze Okpala, Tacko Fall

Head Coach: Erik Spoelstra

Milwaukee

Contract Options: Jrue Holiday ($26.9m/Player), Donte DiVincenzo ($4.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Jeff Teague ($3m/1 year)

Arrivals: Devonte' Graham ($8m/2 years) (PO), Nemanja Bjelica ($4m/1 year), Avery Bradley ($1.7m/1 year), Taj Gibson ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Kent Bazemore (Golden State), Reggie Jackson (Brooklyn), Robin Lopez (Washington), Thabo Sefolosha (Oklahoma City), Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Free Agent), DJ Wilson (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Trayce Jackson-Davis (pick 46), Alex Antetokounmpo (pick 49)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Brook Lopez - Giannis Antetokounmpo - Khris Middleton - Jrue Holiday - Devonte' Graham

Reserves
Pat Connaughton, Bismack Biyombo, Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Green, Jeff Teague, Taj Gibson, Nemanja Bjelica, Avery Bradley, Alex Antetokounmpo, Trayce Jackson-Davis

Head Coach: Mike Budenholzer

New York

Contract Options: DeMarcus Cousins ($20.1m/Player), Julius Randle ($20m/Team), RJ Barrett ($8.7m/Team), Kevin Knox ($5.9m/Team), Reggie Perry ($1.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Kyle Lowry ($46m/2 years) (PO), Frank Ntilikina ($28m/3 years), Dennis Smith Jr($8m/2 years) (TO)

Arrivals: Terrance Ferguson ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Cameron Payne (Minnesota), Ignas Brazdeikis (Free Agent), Kris Wilkes (Free Agent), Mamadi Diakite (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Scottie Barnes (pick 10), Obi Toppin (pick 33), Balsa Koprivica (pick 60)

Trades

• Brooklyn receive: 2023 Knicks second rounder, Cash considerations ($100k)
• New York receive: Pick #60

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Mitchell Robinson - Julius Randle - Scottie Barnes - RJ Barrett - Kyle Lowry

Reserves
DeMarcus Cousins, Allonzo Trier, Obi Toppin, Frank Ntilikina, Kahlil Whitney, Kevin Knox, Dennis Smith Jr, Terrance Ferguson, Reggie Perry, Balsa Koprivica

Head Coach: Tom Thibodeau

Orlando

Contract Options: Al-Farouq Aminu ($10.3m/Player), Mo Bamba ($7.6m/Team), Isaiah Joe ($1.6m/Team)

Re-Signings: Jonathan Isaac ($130m/5 years) (PO), Markelle Fultz ($50m/4 years), DJ Augustin ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Gorgui Dieng ($1.7m/1 year), Jarred Vanderbilt ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Evan Fournier (Utah), Marvin Williams (Dallas), Khem Birch (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Karim Mane (pick 36)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Nikola Vucevic - Aaron Gordon - Jonathan Isaac - Terrence Ross - Cole Anthony

Reserves
Mohamed Bamba, Markelle Fultz, Karim Mane, Jarred Vanderbilt, Al-Farouq Aminu, Maurice Harkless, DJ Augustin, Gorgui Dieng, Chuma Okeke, Isaiah Joe

Head Coach: Steve Clifford

Philadelphia

Contract Options: Zhaire Smith ($4.9m/Team), Matisse Thybulle ($2.9m/Team)

Re-Signings: Furkan Korkmaz ($16m/3 years), Danny Green ($4m/1 year)

Arrivals: Dwight Howard ($5m/1 year), James Johnson ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Isaiah Thomas (Sacramento), Mike Scott (Chicago), Terrance Ferguson (New York), Kyle O'Quinn (Chicago), Armando Bacot (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Moussa Cisse (pick 16), Zaire Wade (pick 42), Sergi Martinez (2020 pick 50)

Trades

• Oklahoma City receive: 2022 Thunder second rounder, Cash considerations ($400k)
• Philadelphia receive: Pick #42

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Joel Embiid - Jabari Parker - Tobias Harris - Seth Curry - Ben Simmons

Reserves
Danny Green, Dwight Howard, James Johnson, Furkan Korkmaz, Zhaire Smith, Shake Milton, Matisse Thybulle, Moussa Cisse, Sergi Martinez, Zaire Wade

Head Coach: Doc Rivers

Toronto

Contract Options: Norman Powell ($11.6m/Player)

Re-Signings: OG Anunoby ($68m/4 years) (PO), Chris Boucher ($13m/2 years), Mario Hezonja ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Andre Iguodala ($3m/1 year), Austin Rivers ($1.7m/1 year), Aron Baynes ($1.7m/1 year), Tyler Lydon ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Serge Ibaka (Atlanta), Marc Gasol (LA Lakers), Bobby Portis (San Antonio), Elfrid Payton (San Antonio), Taj Gibson (Milwaukee), Patrick McCaw (Minnesota)

Draft Picks: Evan Mobley (pick 2), Mojave King (pick 15)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Chris Boucher - Pascal Siakam - OG Anunoby - Norman Powell - Fred VanVleet

Reserves
Nico Mannion, Evan Mobley, Aron Baynes, Mojave King, Austin Rivers, Matt Thomas, Andre Iguodala, Mario Hezonja, Tyler Lydon, Dewan Hernandez,

Head Coach: Nick Nurse

Washington

Contract Options: Troy Brown Jr ($5.2m/Team), Rui Hachimura ($5.9m/Team), Mo Wagner ($3.9m/Team), Tyrese Maxey ($1.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: Isaac Bonga ($15m/3 years)

Arrivals: Robin Lopez ($3m/1 year), Dante Exum ($1.7m/1 year), Michael Carter-Williams ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Evan Turner (Free Agent), Ish Smith (Free Agent), Ray Spalding (Free Agent), Garrison Mathews (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Ziaire Williams (pick 6)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Thomas Bryant - Rui Hachimura - Troy Brown Jr - Bradley Beal - John Wall

Reserves
Tyrese Maxey, Davis Bertans, Isaiah Stewart, Ziaire Williams, Michael Carter-Williams, Mo Wagner, Dante Exum, Isaac Bonga, Robin Lopez, Admiral Schofield

Head Coach: Scott Brooks

1/9/21

Off-Season Summary: Western Conference

Dallas

Contract Options: Luka Doncic ($10.2m/Team), Jalen Brunson ($1.8m/Team)

Re-Signings: Josh Richardson ($42m/3 years), Boban Marjanovic ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Rudy Gay ($3m/1 year), Trey Burke ($1.7m/1 year), Marvin Williams ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Tim Hardaway Jr (Houston), Ersan Ilyasova (Portland), Justin Jackson (Free Agent), Courtney Lee (Retired)

Draft Picks: CJ Walker (pick 39)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Kristaps Porzingis - Maxi Kleber - Rudy Gay - Luka Doncic - LaMelo Ball

Reserves
Josh Richardson, Jalen Brunson, Dwight Powell, Trey Burke, Dorian Finney-Smith, Delon Wright, CJ Walker, Boban Marjanovic, Isaiah Roby, Marvin Williams

Head Coach: Rick Carlisle

Denver

Contract Options: Will Barton ($14.7m/Player), Michael Porter Jr ($5.3m/Team)

Re-Signings: Monte Morris ($27m/3 years), Paul Millsap ($10m/1 year), Bol Bol ($4.2m/2 years)

Arrivals: Meyers Leonard ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Jerami Grant (Detroit), Jarred Vanderbilt (Orlando), Matthew Dellavedova (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Kai Jones (pick 26), Jeremy Roach (pick 56)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Nikola Jokic - Paul Millsap - Michael Porter Jr - Malik Beasley - Jamal Murray

Reserves
Will Barton, Monte Morris, Gary Harris, Mason Plumlee, Juan Hernangomez, Meyers Leonard, Bol Bol, Kai Jones, Jeremy Roach, Vlatko Cancar

Head Coach: Mike Malone

Golden State

Contract Options: Kevon Looney ($5.4m/Player), Jordan Poole ($2.1m/Team), Alen Smailagic ($1.8m/Team)

Re-Signings: Alec Burks ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Goran Dragic ($4m/1 year), Kent Bazemore ($1.7m/1 year), Ben McLemore ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Willie Cauley-Stein (LA Lakers), Jae Crowder (Minnesota), Stanley Johnson (Free Agent), Keita Bates-Diop (Free Agent), Ky Bowman (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Ibou Dianko Badji (pick 28)

Trades

• Golden State receive: Pick #48,
• Memphis receive: 2025 Warriors second rounder, Cash considerations ($200k)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Kevon Looney - Draymond Green - Andrew Wiggins - Klay Thompson - Steph Curry

Reserves
Eric Paschall, Alec Burks, Goran Dragic, Jordan Bell, Ibou Dianko Badji, Jordan Poole, Ben McLemore, Kent Bazemore, Alen Smailagic, Adam Miller

Head Coach: Steve Kerr

Houston

Contract Options: Killian Tillie ($1.6m/Team), Tre Jones ($1.6m/Team)

Re-Signings: Tristan Thompson ($12m/2 years) (PO), Isaiah Hartenstein ($2.1m/1 year) (QO), Torrey Craig ($2m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Tim Hardaway Jr ($10m/2 years), Jeff Green ($1.7m/1 year), Andre Roberson ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (Indiana), Ben McLemore (Golden State), Mike Muscala (Free Agent), Jawun Evans (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Daishen Nix (pick 21)

Trades

• Houston receive: 2022 Kings second rounder
• Sacramento receive: Pick #45, Cash considerations ($200k)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Clint Capela - Tristan Thompson - Danuel House - James Harden - Russell Westbrook

Reserves
Tim Hardaway Jr, Markieff Morris, Eric Gordon, Isaiah Hartenstein, Torrey Craig, Killian Tillie, Andre Roberson, Jeff Green, Tre Jones, Daishen Nix

Head Coach: Stephen Silas

LA Clippers

Contract Options: Paul George ($37.9m/Player), Kawhi Leonard ($35.5m/Player), Landry Shamet ($3.8m/Team), Mfiondu Kabengele ($2.2m/Team)

Re-Signings: Lou Williams ($18m/2 years) (PO)

Arrivals: Nicolas Batum ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Aron Baynes (Toronto), Terance Mann (Free Agent), Johnathan Motley (Free Agent), Jerome Robinson (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Lok Wur (pick 29), Aidan Igiehon (pick 40), Will Richardson (pick 59)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Montrezl Harrell - JaMychal Green - Kawhi Leonard - Paul George - Patrick Beverley

Reserves
Ivica Zubac, Louis Williams, Tyrese Haliburton, Lok Wur, Landry Shamet, Nicolas Batum, Mfiondu Kabengele, Rodney McGruder, Aidan Igiehon, Will Richardson

Head Coach: Tyronn Lue

LA Lakers

Contract Options: Chris Paul ($44.2m/Player)

Re-Signings: Kyle Kuzma ($5.3m/1 year) (QO), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($3m/1 year), Talen Horton-Tucker ($1.9m/1 year) (QO), JaVale McGee ($1.7m/1 year), Alex Caruso ($1.7m/1 year), Quinn Cook ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Willie Cauley-Stein ($10m/2 years) (TO), Marc Gasol ($5m/1 year), Wesley Matthews ($1.7m/1 year), Alfonzo McKinnie ($1.7m/1 year), Thon Maker ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Rajon Rondo (Atlanta), Carmelo Anthony (Portland), Dwight Howard (Philadelphia), Andre Iguodala (Toronto), Troy Daniels (Free Agent), Kostas Antetokounmpo (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Amar Sylla (2020 pick 30)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Marc Gasol - Anthony Davis - LeBron James - Kentavious Caldwell-Pope - Chris Paul

Reserves
Willie Cauley-Stein, Kyle Kuzma, Amar Sylla, JaVale McGee, Thon Maker, Talen Horton-Tucker, Quinn Cook, Alex Caruso, Wesley Matthews, Alfonzo McKinnie

Head Coach: Frank Vogel

Memphis

Contract Options: Ja Morant ($9.6m/Team), Jaren Jackson Jr ($9.2m/Team), Brandon Clarke ($2.7m/Team)

Re-Signings: De'Anthony Melton ($11m/2 years)

Arrivals: -

Departures: Grayson Allen (Free Agent), Marko Guduric (Free Agent), Tyler Bey (Free Agent), Solomon Hill (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Julian Strawther (pick 44), Kyree Walker (pick 47), Arturs Zagars (2020 pick 53)

Trades

• Golden State receive: Pick #48,
• Memphis receive: 2025 Warriors second rounder, Cash considerations ($200k)

• Memphis receive: Justise Winslow
• Miami receive: 2024 Warriors first rounder

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Jonas Valanciunas - Jaren Jackson Jr - Justise Winslow - Dillon Brooks - Ja Morant

Reserves
Brandon Clarke, Jaden McDaniels, Jahlil Okafor, Tyus Jones, Kyle Anderson, De'Anthony Melton, N'Faly Dante, Arturs Zagars, Julian Strawther, Kyree Walker

Head Coach: Taylor Jenkins

Minnesota

Contract Options: Jarrett Culver ($6.4m/Team), Josh Okogie ($4.1m/Team)

Re-Signings: -

Arrivals: Trey Lyles ($8m/2 years), Jae Crowder ($3m/1 year), Cameron Payne ($1.7m/1 year), Patrick McCaw ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Dennis Schroder (Miami), Gorgui Dieng (Orlando), Omari Spellman (Free Agent), Jaylen Nowell (Free Agent), Jacob Evans III (Free Agent), David Nwaba (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Jaden Springer (pick 34), Matthew Hurt (pick 52)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Karl-Anthony Towns - Robert Covington - Jae Crowder - Jarrett Culver - D'Angelo Russell

Reserves
Josh Okogie, Trey Lyles, Ayo Dosunmu, Noah Vonleh, Cameron Payne, Jaden Springer, Patrick McCaw, Jake Layman, Naz Reid, Matthew Hurt

Head Coach: Chris Finch

New Orleans

Contract Options: Zion Williamson ($10.8m/Team), Jaxson Hayes ($5.4m/Team), Nickeil Alexander-Walker ($3.3m/Team)

Re-Signings: Lonzo Ball ($60m/4 years), Josh Hart ($19m/3 years), JJ Redick ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: -

Departures: Dean Wade (Utah), Austin Rivers (Toronto), Marcos Louzada Silva (Free Agent), Tyson Chandler (Retired)

Draft Picks: Isaiah Todd (pick 20), Kira Lewis Jr (pick 24), Aaron Henry (pick 53)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Steven Adams - Zion Williamson - Brandon Ingram - Josh Hart - Eric Bledsoe

Reserves
Lonzo Ball, Jaxson Hayes, Derrick Favors, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, JJ Redick, Isaiah Todd, Trendon Watford, Kira Lewis Jr, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Aaron Henry

Head Coach: Stan Van Gundy

Oklahoma City

Contract Options: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ($5.5m/Team), Darius Bazley ($2.5m/Team)

Re-Signings: -

Arrivals: LaMarcus Aldridge ($32m/2 years) (TO), Tre Mann ($3m/2 years) (TO), Patrick Patterson ($1.7m/1 year), Thabo Sefolosha ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Avery Bradley (Milwaukee), Nicolo Melli (Atlanta), Deyonta Davis (Free Agent), Frank Jackson (Free Agent), James Ennis (Free Agent), Norvel Pelle (Free Agent), Darius Miller (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Jonathan Kuminga (pick 4), Terrence Clarke (pick 11), Aleksej Pokusevski (pick 27)

Trades

• Cleveland receive: Pick #19, Pick #22, Pick #41, 2023 Wizards second rounder, Cash considerations ($2m)
• Oklahoma City receive: Pick #11

• Oklahoma City receive: 2022 Thunder second rounder, Cash considerations ($400k)
• Philadelphia receive: Pick #42

Predicted Starting Line-Up
LaMarcus Aldridge - Isaiah Mobley - Jonathan Kuminga - Anthony Edwards - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Reserves
Terrence Clarke, George Hill, Al Horford, Lu Dort, Darius Bazley, Charles Bassey, Patrick Patterson, Tre Mann, Aleksej Pokusevski, Thabo Sefolosha

Head Coach: Jordi Fernandez

Phoenix

Contract Options: DeAndre Ayton ($12.6m/Team), Mikal Bridges ($5.6m/Team), Cameron Johnson ($4.4m/Team), Ty Jerome ($2.4m/Team)

Re-Signings: Kelly Oubre Jr ($56m/4 years) (PO), Frank Kaminsky ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Cody Zeller ($14m/3 years), Terence Davis ($7m/2 years)

Departures: Elie Okobo (Free Agent), Cheick Diallo (Free Agent), PJ Tucker (Retired)

Draft Picks: DJ Steward (pick 18)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
DeAndre Ayton - Dario Saric - Kelly Oubre Jr - Devin Booker - Ricky Rubio

Reserves
Mikal Bridges, Cody Zeller, Cameron Johnson, Terence Davis, Frank Kaminsky, Denzel Valentine, DJ Steward, Vernon Carey, Ty Jerome, Jalen Lecque

Head Coach: Monty Williams

Portland

Contract Options: Anfernee Simons ($3.9m/Team), Nassir Little ($2.3m/Team), Devon Dotson ($1.6m/Team)

Re-Signings: Zach Collins ($58m/4 years), Gary Trent Jr ($46m/4 years), Rodney Hood ($1.7m/1 year)

Arrivals: Carmelo Anthony ($4m/1 year), Harry Giles III ($1.7m/1 year), Ersan Ilyasova ($1.7m/1 year)

Departures: Thon Maker (LA Lakers), Jeff Green (Houston), Nemanja Bjelica (Milwaukee), Jaylen Hoard (Free Agent), CJ Miles (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Greg Brown (pick 14), Oscar Tshiebwe (pick 51)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Jusuf Nurkic - Zach Collins - Nassir Little - CJ McCollum - Damian Lillard

Reserves
Gary Trent Jr, Scottie Lewis, Carmelo Anthony, Harry Giles III, Rodney Hood, Greg Brown, Anfernee Simons, Oscar Tshiebwe, Ersan Ilyasova, Devon Dotson

Head Coach: Terry Stotts

Sacramento

Contract Options: Marvin Bagley III ($11.3m/Team)

Re-Signings: De'Aaron Fox ($158m/5 years), Richaun Holmes ($22m/3 years)

Arrivals: Isaiah Thomas ($3m/1 year)

Departures: Harry Giles III (Portland), Tyler Lydon (Toronto), Ashton Hagans (Free Agent), Wenyen Gabriel (Free Agent), Trevor Ariza (Retired)

Draft Picks: Jalen Green (pick 3), Roko Prkacin (pick 23), Alonzo Gaffney (pick 31), Jahmius Ramsey (pick 45)

Trades

• Atlanta receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic
• Sacramento receive: Jalen Smith, Pick #23

• Houston receive: 2022 Kings second rounder
• Sacramento receive: Pick #45, Cash considerations ($200k)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Marvin Bagley III - Harrison Barnes - Deni Avdija - Buddy Hield - De'Aaron Fox

Reserves
Jalen Green, Richaun Holmes, Isaiah Thomas, Jalen Smith, Roko Prkacin, Cory Joseph, Cassius Stanley, Alonzo Gaffney, Dewayne Dedmon, Jahmius Ramsey

Head Coach: Luke Walton

San Antonio

Contract Options: Lonnie Walker IV ($4.5m/Team), Luka Samanic ($3m/Team), Keldon Johnson ($2.1m/Team)

Re-Signings: Patty Mills ($3m/1 year), Chimezie Metu ($2.1m/1 year) (QO)

Arrivals: Jarrett Allen ($62m/4 years), Bobby Portis ($24m/3 years) (TO), Elfrid Payton ($8m/2 years) (TO)

Departures: LaMarcus Aldridge (Oklahoma City), Rudy Gay (Dallas), Derrick White (Atlanta), Trey Lyles (Minnesota), Omer Yurtseven (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Brandon Boston (pick 8), Devin Vassell (pick 38)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Jarrett Allen - Bobby Portis - DeMar DeRozan - Brandon Boston - Dejounte Murray

Reserves
Elfrid Payton, Keldon Johnson, Precious Achiuwa, Jakob Poeltl, Lonnie Walker IV, Patty Mills, Luka Samanic, Chimeze Metu, DeMarre Carroll, Devin Vassell

Head Coach: Gregg Popovich

Utah

Contract Options: Marcus Morris ($9.7m/Player)

Re-Signings: Donovan Mitchell ($158m/5 years) (PO), Mike Conley ($6m/1 year), Tony Bradley ($6m/2 years), Joe Ingles ($2m/1 year)

Arrivals: Evan Fournier ($40m/3 years), Justin Holiday ($1.7m/1 year), Dean Wade ($1.5m/1 year)

Departures: Dante Exum (Washington), Meyers Leonard (Denver), Ed Davis (Indiana), Jonathon Simmons (Detroit), Royce O'Neal (Free Agent), Ryan Anderson (Free Agent)

Draft Picks: Usman Garuba (pick 13), Josh Giddey (pick 37), Kai Sotto (pick 57)

Predicted Starting Line-Up
Rudy Gobert - Marcus Morris - Bojan Bogdanovic - Donovan Mitchell - Mike Conley

Reserves
Evan Fournier, Usman Garuba, Tony Bradley, Joe Ingles, Justin Holiday, Josh Giddey, Dean Wade, Nigel Williams-Goss, Kai Sotto, Miye Oni

Head Coach: Quin Snyder

20/10/21

Phoenix Suns [0-0] vs Oklahoma City Thunder [0-0]

Clarke stars on debut as Thunder fall just short in Phoenix

PHX | 36 | 28 | 28 | 36 | 128 |
OKC | 33 | 31 | 27 | 32 | 123 |

Player of the Game: Devin Booker
(27pts, 4reb, 5ast, 2stl)
(11-21 FG, 3-6 3PT, 2-2 FT)

Simmed Game

OKC | 24 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 105 |
GSW | 31 | 27 | 27 | 24 | 109 |

POTG: Steph Curry (36pts, 8reb, 8ast, 4stl, 1blk)


Record: 0-2

Edwards had a cold shooting night. But Mobley kept up his form from last season, now as a starter.

I could definitely see Clarke playing that rookie Harden bench role on this team. Very impressed by him so far. Overall the team feels stronger (despite the results), with maybe 4-5 players able to score 20+ in a game and Kuminga/Dort/Bazley as the wild cards.

24/10/21

Oklahoma City Thunder [0-2] vs Los Angeles Lakers [1-1]

Thunder youngsters upset LeBron's Lakers in high-scoring clash

OKC | 33 | 38 | 32 | 42 | 145 |
LAL | 37 | 32 | 36 | 33 | 138 |

Player of the Game: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
(26pts, 4reb, 11ast)
(10-15 FG, 1-1 3PT, 5-5 FT)

Simmed Game

OKC | 32 | 27 | 38 | 31 | 128 |
SAC | 28 | 29 | 32 | 33 | 122 |

POTG: Isaiah Mobley (27pts, 9reb, 1ast, 6stl, 1blk)


Record: 2-2

This game was just fun with both teams playing all-star game defense

You're not kidding. Buckets for all!

Really sad to hear about Terrence Clarke today

Horrible news indeed.

28/10/21

Los Angeles Clippers [2-2] vs Oklahoma City Thunder [2-2]

Clippers pull away from Thunder in the second half

LAC | 28 | 33 | 36 | 30 | 127 |
OKC | 27 | 33 | 22 | 27 | 109 |

Player of the Game: Kawhi Leonard
(22pts, 7reb, 7ast, 3stl)
(11-22 FG, 0-3 3PT)

Simmed Game

OKC | 26 | 27 | 18 | 38 | 109 |
DAL | 34 | 23 | 20 | 27 | 104 |

POTG: Luka Doncic (25pts, 16reb, 8ast)


Record: 3-3

3/11/21

Milwaukee Bucks [4-3] vs Oklahoma City Thunder [3-3]

Thunder give up double-digit fourth quarter lead in Milwaukee

MIL | 35 | 25 | 25 | 34 | 119 |
OKC | 35 | 31 | 29 | 20 | 115 |

Player of the Game: Giannis Antetokounmpo
(21pts, 14reb, 10ast, 2stl, 6blk)
(8-17 FG, 5-9 FT)

Simmed Game

CLE | 28 | 32 | 24 | 30 | 114 |
OKC | 38 | 24 | 31 | 36 | 129 |

POTG: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (26pts, 7reb, 11ast, 1stl)


Record: 4-4

We were up 103-88 early in the fourth quarter. Then it all fell apart