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| Posted by: Guru
- [330592710] Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 13:44
Continuation of draft rationales for rounds 9-15.
Rationales for rounds 1-8 |
| | | 1 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 16:44
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for JL
9.01 Nene Hilario, PF, DEN I'm actually okay with this pick, given that it came from a 31-man queue. If he can overcome his injury issues, he could be very solid. I picked him up last season and he was incredible in the last half of the season.
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| | | 2 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 18:17
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For Jason:
9.02 Ronnie Brewer, SG, UTABrewer's points power and efficiency are fantastic in the preseason games. The high FT% and the steals are very important for me, in this period of the draft. I hope the competition between Brewer and Giricek is finished, and Brewer will start permanently this season.
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| | | 3 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 18:17
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For s R:
9.03 Darko Milicic, PF/C, MEM
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| | | 4 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 18:21
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9.04 Drew Gooden, PF, CLE
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Boooorrrrrrr-RING.
What else can I say? I needed a PF, and the couple of things Gooden does well were things I needed, namely rebounds and FG%, and a steal per game doesn't hurt. It was between him and Chris Wilcox at this point, and I'm concerned about Wilcox' PT.
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| | | 6 | Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 19:49
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9.05 Al Horford , PF/C Atl
Horford was the first of two consecutive rookies I picked for my team. I am normally not prone to taking rookies this early but Horford has been outstanding in the preseason, averaging 12 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 51% from the floor and 70% from the line.
I realize this is just preseason, but with his NCAA championsip experience he may be able to step right in at this level. It isn't known if he will start or come off the bench at the onset, but none the less the playing time will be there. Rotowire is projecting 12 points, a shade over 7 rebounds and a block game.
He is also center eligible which is a plus.
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| | | 7 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 19:56
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for E'ville Destiny
9.06 Delonte West, PG/SG, Sea
Bit of a stretch here but I needed more guard help and I think he will get lots of minutes in Seattle. Health may be my biggest concern here.
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| | | 8 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 19:57
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9.07 Tayshaun Prince, SF, Det
I came very close to picking Jamal Crawford with this pick, but finally decided that I should really fill one of my two open forward slots. Prince is similar in many ways to my last pick, Josh Childress, in that he contributes a little bit in many categories, but doesn’t dominate in any. A recent report suggests that he might see more time with the second unit, but perhaps fewer minutes overall. I don’t think that’s necessarily bad. In fact, if he were playing with the second unit, he might be more comfortable assuming a more assertive role.
My biggest issue with this pick is that Prince probably has limited upside – and we’re getting to those picks where you like to take some flyers. But I think Prince provides a solid statistical foundation to go with durability, and I can be comfortable plugging him in one forward spot all season long.
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| | | 9 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 041831612
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 20:25
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9.08 Chris Wilcox, PF/C, Sea
I saw a lot of different players that appealed to me, but all have flaws at this time of the draft. Wilcox broke out in the second half of last season after being traded to the Sonics and getting some playing time, averaging 14.3 points on 59% FG and 78% FT shooting with 8.4 rebounds in 30.7 minutes after the All-Star break. Those stats would make him a much higher draft pick than this. However, it remains to be seen if he can reach those levels on a consistent basis. Also eligible at center which is nice.
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| | | 10 | MikeV
ID: 339312219
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 22:07
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9.09 Peja Stojakovic, SF, SAC
Al Horford was supposed to make it to this pick. The choice was between Conley and Stojakovic. Wonder if I'd taken Conley would Peja have stuck around. I have Peja as a top 80 pick, giving 18 pts, 4+ boards, 2.5 3s and a wonderful 89% FT.
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| | | 12 | tommyd
ID: 326243012
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 23:14
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For Mark L
9.10 Mike Conley JR, PG,MEMFinally time to do something about the assists deficiency. Conley
probably won't start at the beginning of the season, but he'll get
serious minutes, and I would be extremely surprised if he is not the
starter getting 30+ minutes by the break. Mighty Mouse can't hold
him off forever. Miller, Gasol and Navarro can all score, Warrick
should be better, and Conley is content to get them the ball. His
quickness should let him do some scoring as well, and he should
get about a steal a game so he'll help out there as well.
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| | | 13 | tommyd
ID: 326243012
Mon, Oct 22, 2007, 23:15
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9.11 Troy Murphy, C,IND
I originally had planned on picking up Nenad Krystic here but I read he is taking longer to heal from his knee surgery from last year and the Nets have picked up Magloire. I also really wanted Crawford but I thought that coldwater coyotes would be looking for a big man and there would be a greater chance of him taking Murphy. Obviously that was wrong and I am kind of bummed that he took Crawford. Back to Murphy, I am hoping he can return to form from an off year and get back to close to double double rebounds and points. He should also throw in some three's and 1/2 a block per game. Which I think is good value from this spot.
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| | | 14 | tommyd7878
ID: 38552137
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 00:33
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For cc
9.12 Jamal Crawford,SG,NYN
10.01 Andreas Nocioni,SF CHI
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| | | 15 | tommyd7878
ID: 38552137
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 00:39
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10.02 Devin Harris,PG,DAL
I was all set to snatch up Crawford here but I had to go back to the drawing board. Harris is young, has fantastic %'s and it looks like Dallas is really pushing him as the starting point guard this year. If he get more minutes then he could improve on all his stats.
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| | | 16 | Mark L
Leader
ID: 03601149
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 01:59
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10.03 Acie Law IV, PG, ATL
Another move to shore up assists. Atlanta is likely to be
substantially improved and Law will likely be the PG who plays the
most minutes; can't see the backups keeping him on the bench for
significant periods of time. Was hoping that Devin Harris might be
available here but tommyd took care of that chance. This pick
might have been a reach but I figured the potential reward justified
the risks of jumping on Law.
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| | | 17 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 08:41
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For Mike V:
10.04 Nenad Krstic, PF/C, NJ
The top center left is Krstic and I need a 2nd center. He was having a career year until his knee went. He's appears to be healthy and should produce 15 pts, 6+ boards and maybe a block.
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| | | 18 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 08:42
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10.05 Jarret Jack, PG, Por
Hadn’t taken a guard in quite a long time. Saw some lower tier point guards hanging around and liked the percentages (especially FT), assists, steals, and small 3s contribution. I’m not sold on Roy staying healthy, and I’ve seen Jack & other PGs play together in the pre-season and they seem to work well. The crowded backcourt fears may not be as big a deal as some people think. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, I think Jack will produce well. Also considered Tinsley, White Chocolate, and Anthony Parker.
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| | | 19 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 10:20
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10.06 Walter Herrmann, SF/PF, Cha
For the final 30 days of last season, Herrman showed what he could do when given playing time. Over that span, these were his averages: 36 minutes, 2.3 3-pointers, 18.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a FG% in the upper 50s. ESPN’s player rater had him ranked #34 overall during that period.
With Adam Morrison now out for the year, the playing time should be there for the taking. In last night’s preseason game (the first without Morrison), he logged 38 minutes. Without the Morrison injury, there’s no way I’d be taking Herrmann this early. Consider it a speculative, vulture pick.
Before the Morrison injury, I was considering either Luke Walton or Anthony Parker. (Also Jarrett Jack, but he disappeared one pick ago.) I’m not sure which player I’d have taken, but I think the new situation in Charlotte vaults Herrmann at least into the same vicinity as those two forwards, with more upside.
Although a rookie last year, Herrman is a 28-year-old Argentinian, so his game should be fairly well developed by this point. He doesn’t produce much outside the scoring cats, but my sense is that those are precisely the cats I could use some strengthening in. And no one else on the board right now strikes me as having the same upside potential – although it’s always possible that Herrmann fails to take advantage of Morrison’s misfortune. High risk, high potential – that’s what 10th round picks are for.
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| | | 20 | Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 12:07
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for E'ville Destiny
10.07 Mike Dunleavy SF Ind I really needed a two guard at this point and I wanted someone who would be consistent and low risk. Dunleavy seemed to fit that best. Parker and Mobley concerned me a little so I took what I felt was the conservative move at this point.
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| | | 21 | Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 12:11
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10.08 Al Thornton F LAC
The second of two consecutive rookie picks. Thornton, as has Horford, has had an outstanding preseason, and should benefit from Brand's absence. He will either share the PF position with Tim Thomas or maybe win the job outright. At worst, a backup to both Thomas and Maggette. In any scenario, playing time should be there.
I really wanted Krstic here, and brielfy considered Scolia and Corey Brewer.
What can we expect from Thornton? If preseason is any indication, 18 points, 6 rebounds and a block and three per game. Not likely, but realistically, 12 ppg game and 5 rebounds a block and a 3. And his %'s won't kill.
And if Brand comes back earlier than reported...... see pick 12.08
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| | | 22 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 12:19
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10.09 Jamaal Tinsley, PG, IND
Tinsley is a very flawed player. He gets hurt a lot, and shoots more bricks than a 1920's bricklayer. He's also very streaky.
But, he is a starting PG and after Jack got jacked in front of me I looked further down the PG ladder and felt that I needed to pull the trigger on Tinsley after missing out on other PG's earlier in the draft. He should average 6 assists or so, and he does get his share of steals. I'm not sure if I should be rooting for threes in O'Brien's three-friendly offense, because Tinsley isn't a strong three point shooter.
I also had Chucky Atkins on my radar but felt he would slip. Oops.
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| | | 23 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 15:54
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for s R:
10.10 Dorell Wright, SG, MIA
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| | | 24 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 15:54
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for Jason
10.11 Luis Scola, SF, HOU
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| | | 25 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 15:55
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for JL
10.12 Travis Outlaw, SF, POR
I'm not actually expecting much from Outlaw, but this felt like a good time to take a risk on a player that with Outlaw's tremendous potential. He averaged nearly one block and one steal in limited minutes last season, and his minutes are expected to increase this year.11.01 Chucky Atkins, PG, DEN
Atkins is supposedly the starting PG in Denver this season. I would be pleased if he could repeat his statline from last season. I'm really deficient in assists in this draft and I refuse to draft Rafer Alston, so this was really my only option.
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| | | 26 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 16:53
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for Jason
11.02 Corey Brewer, PF, MIN
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| | | 27 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 16:54
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for s R
11.03 Channing Frye, PF, POR
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| | | 28 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 17:00
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11.04 Anthony Parker, SG/SF, TOR
I think Parker is an absolute steal here. While most of us are taking chances on rookies, sixth men, or category killing speCIALISts, I am happy to nab a legitimate player here. Parker contributes decent scoring, very sound %'s, 1.5-ish threes and over 1 steal a game. I was especially happy after reading Mike D and Guru's round 10 rationales to see that they considered Parker a full round earlier.
I briefly considered Luke Walton here, but was scared off by potential PT issues.
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| | | 29 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 17:29
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for Dave R
11.05 Luke Walton, SF, LAL
Walton had a superb season last year, only to have it cut short by a severe ankle injury. There also have been rumors that he had lost his job to ( ?? ). Hard to believe after signing a huge contract.
I think that not only will Walton start but improve on last years fine season. He is a perfect fit to the Lakers offense and should be option #3, behind Kobe and Odom.
Last year, 11.4 points, 4.3 assists and 5 boards, along with a steal a game and add in a handful of blocks. Not spectacular, but certainly solid.I'm expecting those numbers to improve a bit.
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| | | 30 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 17:29
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for footwedge
11.06 Cuttino Mobley, SG, LAC
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| | | 31 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 17:31
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11.07 Nick Collison, C, Sea
Heading into this pick, my short list was Anthony Parker, Luke Walton, and Collison. Species and Dave R took care of the first two, leaving me with only one to choose from. I wish all decisions were this straightforward… I guess.
Collison is my 3rd center-eligible player, providing important backup in case of [the inevitable] injuries to Camby or Dalembert. Last year, he started 56 games; this year, his role is uncertain, as the whole Seattle team has undergone a rather dramatic makeover. But as a backup center, it’s worth a shot. Hopefully he can build on last year’s progress. He provides rebounds, a smattering of other stats, and good shooting percentages.
Last year, Kevin Martin was my 11th rounder, and turned out to be a home run. I doubt if Collison will be as much of an overachiever – but youneverknow.
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| | | 32 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 041831612
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 19:19
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11.08 Udonis Haslem, PF, Mia
I don’t feel I have any striking needs at this point. To get a consistent double double threat with the 128th pick is terrific in my book (that I have yet to write). FG%, boards, and double digit points are what this high character guy brings. And when Shaq stubs his toe, Haslem may even gain center eligibility. I like the way this squad is shaping up.
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| | | 33 | MikeV
SuperDude
ID: 25924115
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 20:23
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11.09 Hedo Turkoglu, SF, ORL
I needed to seriously address several categories and couldn't find anyone that really fit what I wanted. So I punted and got a guy that contributes in everything but blocks. His percentages aren't that good but at this point in the draft what do you expect.
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| | | 34 | Mark L in Denver
ID: 549341817
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 20:33
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11.10 Kyle Korver, SG, PHI
This pick really solidifies triples for me, adds double-digit scoring, and maybe most important, another strong FT% sets up what I hoped would be (and turned out to be) more rebounding help.
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| | | 35 | tommyd
ID: 326243012
Tue, Oct 23, 2007, 21:34
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11.11 Jason Maxiell,PF,DET
Well it's the end of the 11th round so it's time to start to start speculating. Maxiell's #'s from last year aren't impressive until you realize that it was done in only 14 mpg. Looking at the Detroit roster their front line isn't getting any younger so I'm hoping that Maxiell can get anywhere between 20-25 mpg. If he can get 10ppg,6 rbg and 1.5 bpg I'd be happy. I was also looking at Collison but he didn't make it to me.
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| | | 36 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:44
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for coldwater
11.12 Yi Jianlian, PF, Mil
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| | | 37 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:45
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for coldwater
12.01 Andray Blatche, SF/PF, Was
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| | | 38 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:46
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for tommyd
12.02 Tim Thomas, SF/PF, LAC
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| | | 39 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:47
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for Mark L
12.03 Shaquille O'Neal, C, Mia
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| | | 40 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:47
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for Mike V
12.04 Craig Smith, SF/PF, Min
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| | | 41 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 41831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 10:48
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12.05 Jason Williams, PG, Mia
I considered White Chocolate at pick 10.5, two full rounds ago. That means either I had overvalued him, or everyone else has undervalued him. Probably the former.
Plenty has been encouraging about Williams in recent days, especially his performances in back-to-back exhibitions over the weekend against the Hornets and Grizzlies. Williams not only scored a combined 30 points in those two games and shot 13 of 24, he said he came out of the set without any pain in his chronically troublesome knees. He often was limited to one of the two games in back-to-backs at the start of last season. Further, this quote from Pat Riley practically made this pick for me: "He's crucial to us… probably more than anybody, because we need him 30 minutes every night," Riley said.
Williams is entering the final year of his contract and is in great shape. Wade is out hurt, and others have also been battling injuries. 3s, assists, steals, and excellent FT shooting should be coming my way.
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| | | 42 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 11:08
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12.06 Larry Hughes, SG, Cle
Curse you, Mike D! I wanted Jason Williams with this pick, and you took him at the last minute. I wanted to bolster my assists and treys, and Williams looked like the best candidate to enhance both cats.
As I scrounged around for an alternative, Larry Hughes popped up on my radar. What ever happened to Larry Hughes? Last year, he was picked in round #7, and failed to come close to earning it. Two years ago, he went in round #3 - ditto. Is his problem the Cavs’ style of play? Is it meshing with Lebron? Is it injuries? Was he an overachiever in Washington?
I don’t know, but at age 28, there should be some gas left in the tank. And in round 12, it’s not like I’m really buying into a major comeback story. There is some thought that he might be Cleveland’s starting PG this year, but I doubt if he generates PG-like stats, regardless of what the boxscore shows as his position. No one seems to be projecting any sort of improvement over last year - which I guess satisfies the definition of “sleeper.”
The other guy I seriously considered was Mo Peterson, but after getting saddled with him last year (my 6th round pick – ugh!), there’s a lot of bad karma to overcome. And while some of the “experts” are suggesting him as a sleeper pick, he hasn’t shown much in preseason. Now, I know that preseason results are unreliable, but that old adage “fool me once…” was just too strong to ignore. Someone else can reap that bounty.
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| | | 43 | Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 12:27
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or E'ville Destiny
12.07 Martell Webster SF Por
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| | | 44 | Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 12:28
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12.08 Elton Brand PF/C LAC
Well, someone was going to do it, I figured it may as well be me. Brand rocked the fantasy world as well as those in Clipper land with a serious injury this summer, rupturing his Achilles tendon in early August, undergoing surgery a few days later. There is no definitive time table for his return, but indications are maybe in February. Brand was in all probability a top 7 pick.
Actually drafting Brand here made perfect sense for me, having selected Al Thornton 2 rounds earlier. If Brand comes back sooner than expected, great, if later, then it should mean extended time for Thornton, theoretically. Assuming Thornton is playing and playing well in his absence. Kind of a win-win situation.
What can I expect if and when Brand comes back, hopefully the usual 20 + points, 10-11 boards, a few assists, 2+ blocks and maybe a steal per game. Rotowire is expecting 1/3 of the season ( 27 games or so ). I would be thrilled, his stats over those 27 games projected better than most left on the board over a full year.
We are at the point when many of those selected here, might end up as waiver fodder any way, so it is a gamble worth taking.
On the positive side, Brand shed his walking boot and was cleared for advanced cardio workouts the day I picked him. Maybe an omen.
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| | | 45 | Species
Dude
ID: 07724916
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 13:05
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12.09 Kendrick Perkins, C, BOS
I took Perkins earlier than most RIHC drafts, but at this point value becomes pretty relative. So, relative to my team, I decided to take a shot at Perkins.
His value in the offense is going to be pretty limited with KG, Jesus Shuttlesworth and Pierce on the floor, but he should be called upon to help KG on the boards and block shots on defense. At this point what I needed most was blocks, and Perkins swatted 1.3 per game last year in a meager 22 minutes a night. With Al Jefferson gone the C's will definitely want Perkins' 280 pound frame doing the dirty work down low and taking the pounding off of KG, so I expect his blocks to increase.
FG% will be strong, as about the only shots he should be taking are offensive rebounds/tipins/dunks or dunks off of penetration/dish-offs from one of the big three. He'll be a nice backup in for some occasional blocks.
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| | | 46 | s R
ID: 861898
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 13:21
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12.10 Luther Head, PG/SG, Hou
I needed help in 3-pointers and Luther is the 4. in long range shooter accuracy (44 percent) and has managed to win regular minutes.
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| | | 47 | Jason
ID: 5086298
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 16:30
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12.11 Bobby Simmons, SF, Mil
I think Simmons will help my team with his very good percentages, threes, adn steals, and I hope, after last terrible year he will be a strong contributor in the other categories too. After injury he has to show again he is the only one solution in SF position and he will do it.
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| | | 48 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:23
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for JL
12.12 Steve Francis, PG, HOU
13.01 Matt Barnes, SF, GSW
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| | | 49 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:24
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for Jason
13.02 Juan Carlos Navarro, PG, MEM
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| | | 50 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:24
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for s R
13.03 J.j. Redick, SG, ORL
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| | | 51 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:25
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for Species
13.04 Sam Cassell, PG, LAC
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| | | 52 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:25
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for Dave R
13.05 Morris Peterson, SG, NOR
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| | | 53 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:25
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for footwedge
13.06 Grant Hill, SF, PHO
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| | | 54 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 17:27
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13.07 Charlie Villanueva, SF/PF, Mil
Charlie was a 6th round pick in last year’s RIHC, but managed to appear in only 39 games due to a variety of injuries. He has declared himself "100 percent ready" this year, and will now have to battle newcomer Yi Jianlian for playing time, although he could also find some time at SF. Hopefully, he’ll stay healthy enough, and has talent enough to force the Bucks to find ample court time.
As a 13th round pick, I like the upside. And of course, I always have a soft spot for UConn alums.
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| | | 55 | Mike D
Leader
ID: 041831612
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 20:33
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13.08 Antonio McDyess, PF, Det
I probably would have taken Mr. Underachiever Charlie V, but Guru (thankfully?) took him right before me. That left me several options. I decided to go with Mr. Consistent Antonio McD. He should start, might eventually get center eligibility, might hit double digit scoring, and should get 6-8 boards a game. He also should be slightly over a block a game when all is said and stuffed. Great FG%, and another high character guy for my team which is important for some reason. Oh yeah, in case Sheed is suspended.
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| | | 56 | MikeV
SuperDude
ID: 25924115
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 20:50
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13.09 Rafer Alston, PG, HOU
Aiming toward assists or rebounds I narrowed my choice down to Rafer Alston or Jeff Green. While I see Green having a larger impact, I think there is a fair chance he'll still be around in 6 picks for my next. Rotowire is reporting that Rafer will be the Rockets starting PG and while he'll probably only get 4 or 5 assists a game he will get a couple 3s and a steal.
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| | | 58 | tommyd
ID: 326243012
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 21:51
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For Mark L
13.10Ruben Patterson,PF,LAC
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| | | 59 | tommyd
ID: 326243012
Wed, Oct 24, 2007, 22:05
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13.11, Quentin Richardson, SF, NYK
I really considered Zaza here and was kind of hoping he'd come back around the turn, I've said that a few times this draft. Looking at Richardson he is slotted to start at SF for the Knicks which is always good from a 13th round pick. Obviously floor time may be a problem with the new additions but they shouldn't affect him too much. If he can get double digit points,1.5 3's per, and 6 RBG I think that's pretty good for this late in the draft.
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| | | 60 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:18
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for coldwater coyotes
13.12 Zaza Pachulia, C, Atl
Pachulia provides me with a solid back up to my two risky centers, Brad Miller and Diaw. I expect Miller and Diaw to have come back years but if one flounders then I can bring Pachulia in with his dependable 7 rebounds and 12 points. The loss in blocks from Pachulia could be made up by starting Blatche.
14.01 Louis Williams, G, Phil
There are some reports that Lou will be the SG starter with the 76ers but I think Carney will get the job. This could work out better for me as he will spend more time at PG backing up Andre Miller. He has the potential to get 15 pts, 5 assists and 2 steals this year.
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| | | 61 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:19
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for tommyd
14.02 Hakim Warrick, PF, MEM
Well Warrick is still young and can improve. I'm not really sure what to expect not really looking for any bid break out, but again if he can replicate last years stats and improve some then he'll be a serviceable pick at this points.
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| | | 62 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:19
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for Mark L
14.03 Luke Ridnour, PG, SEA
A couple years ago in AA I traded Drew Gooden for Ridnour;
both were fairly high picks. The mighty have fallen, and Ridnour
fell far enough that he was a good bargain here, mainly as
insurance against a Paul injury or too little burn early on from
my pair of rookie PGs (Conley and Law). Ridnour should get 5
dimes a game, grab a steal here and there and get to the low
double figures in ppg. With a FT% in the mid-80s, he joins the
group of guys who will offset Howard, Shaq and Patterson at the
line. His outside shooting has been questionable but my squad
is pretty strong from the floor. And with Delonte West a little
banged up to start the season he should see decent minutes. As
with the last two picks, I felt I got really good value here.
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| | | 63 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:20
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for Mike V
14.04 Jeff Green, SF, SEA
As I'd hoped when I made my last pick, Green was still available. I see him playing both SG and SF and will get a lot of minutes off the bench. Hoping for 13 pts, 3 assists and 6 boards.
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:20
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for Mike D
14.05 Marco Belinelli, PG/SG, GS
The ends of these drafts are always much harder for me because I see so many players that I’d like to take a flyer on. Since I feel pretty good about my team so far, I decided to go with a guy with a huge upside in Belinelli. A great shooter, he can get his share of rebounds, assists, steals, and 3s. The best analogy is Manu Ginobili. Nellie is playing his typical psych games with the media (and fans). He pumped him initially, but has now “backed off” and said he needs to work on his D and adjusting to the NBA. Is this true? I say Nellie is simply trying to lower the hype and take the pressure off of him. Belinelli said he thought that too. Since Nellie’s proclamation, he’s had two very strong pre-season games. It’s a long season, and with injuries, fouls, and high-scoring games to be played, it’s a matter of time before he produces.
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| | | 65 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:21
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14.06 Jose Calderon, PG, Tor
For a change, my short list for this pick was left relatively intact. I don’t know if that’s good or not! The players were (in no particular order) Jose Calderon, Jason Kapono, Kyle Lowry, and Brevin Knight. None are likely to start, but all have the potential to make meaningful contributions. And, of course, all have the potential to be the first player dropped for my first November free agent acquisition.
Kapono hasn’t done much at all this preseason, and I don’t want another Mo Peterson situation in Toronto. Lowry’s triple-double last night makes him a tempting flyer, but there are too many guards in Memphis, and unless Stoudamire is dealt or injured – neither being a particular long shot – Lowry may have trouble getting minutes, last night notwithstanding. Knight may only be a Cassell injury away from starter’s minutes, but then again, he’ll probably be injured at the time as well.
So that leaves Calderon. He’s clearly second fiddle behind Ford, but Ford has shown a propensity to miss games, and with an up tempo style of play in Toronto this year, Ford will need his blows, giving Calderon potential value even if Ford is healthy.
Lowry’s outburst certainly gave me pause. But I think Calderon has the better chance to make meaningful contributions sooner than later.
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| | | 66 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:22
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for footwedge
14.07 Rashad McCants, SG, MIN
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| | | 67 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:23
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for Dave R
14.08 Brevin Knight, PG, LAC
Although I felt relatively strong in assists and steals, I felt another PG was warranted here. Everyone on my radar was, at this juncture, the backup in probably an unsettled PG rotation. I really wanted Calderon here but Guru snatched him up two picks ago. Considering that none on my current roster are PG's in the vein of a Steve Nash, putting up assists numbers that can almost carry you in that cat, I was an injury away from hurting for assists.
Supposedly Brevin will back up Sammy for the Clips, although there are rumblings that Dunleavy wasn't thrilled with him reporting to camp out of shape. Cassell is now 38 and never was known for his durability. But then again neither was Knight. How ironic, picking an injury prone backup in case the aging, injury prone starter gets hurt. I envision a situation where playing time is pretty much shared.
Backing up Felton last year, Knight averaged 9 points, 6.6 assists and 1.5 steals. But as a starter ( 25 games ), he averaged 11.4 points, 7.4 assists and 1.7 steals. Unfortunately he doesn't bring any 3's with him in his gym bag. Even a duplication of last years full season stats would be a bargain in round 14.
But, Knight only played 45 games last year and has never played in as many as 70 for his career, so I'll keep my fingers crossed.
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| | | 68 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:24
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for Species
14.09 Stromile Swift, PF/C, MEM
Another flier on a historically underachieving player. He's slated to start right now but has Darko and Warrick nipping at his heels for playing time. If he starts out hot could be worth some starts to build up GP's.
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| | | 69 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:24
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for s R
14.10 Shareef Abdur-Rahim, PF/C, Sac
His best days are behind him but he still has star-caliber talent. With starter's minutes (?), Shareef will be a good value.
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:25
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for Jason
14.11 Anderson Varejao, C, CLE
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:25
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for JL
14.12 Trevor Ariza SF ORL
15.01 Jason Kapono SF TOR
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:27
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for Jason
15.02 Wally Szczerbiak, SG, SEA
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:27
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for s R
15.03 Nate Robinson, PG/SG, NY
Quickness, explosiveness and athleticism: he could be a good source of points, steals and 3-pointers - if he plays more minutes behind Marbury.
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| | | 74 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:28
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for Species
15.04 Bonzi Wells, SG/SF, HOU
I had read today that Wells had been doing well in Adelman's offense, which was natural given their time in Sacramento. At his best, Wells proved he was a terror inside and on the boards, let alone popping J's from the outside. Still, SF and SG are really crowded in Houston, so he could be my first cut.
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| | | 75 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:28
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for Dave R
15.05 Alonzo Mourning C Mia
Give me a B
Give me an L
Give me an O
Give me a C
Give me a K
Give me an S
What's that spell? BLOCKS.......
That's what I was in need of, along with some boards and hopefully Zo can give them to me. Right before my pick the trade bringing Ricky Davis and Marc Blount to Miami was announced, but I gave it some thought and can't imagine Blount stealing some of ZO's thunder.
Besides, isn't Shaq on a 45 game contract ? ( the Roger Clemens of Hoops ). Last year in 20 minutes per game Mourning averaged 8.6 points, 4.5 boards and 2.3 blocks. As a starter ( 43 ) games he only played 4 more minutes, but averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds and over 3 blocks. Call the SWAT team.
So, Shaq will get hurt, need rest, or get in foul trouble and Zo will be Zo. And Blount will be, well Blount. And if I am wrong and Shaq laces them up for the year, and Blount becomes the player he was for a brief spell in Boston, and Zo is, well Zo no mo, then I'll visit the wavier wire.
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:29
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for footwedge
15.06 Erick Dampier, C, DAL
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ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:31
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15.07 Kenyon Martin, PF, Den
My second K. Martin.
Lowry was still available and since I considered him in last round, I thought about him again. And while he could have value, I think he’s better suited for a keeper league, as his value isn’t likely to emerge until later this year, or even next. (I could be wrong about that, however.) Martin may not hold together until next year. Or even next week. But he is playing now, and if I can catch him for a few spurts of healthy play, he could be a nice option to fill in the gaps. Or even better.
Discouragingly, a day after this pick, I read that George Karl is planning on playing Martin only 15-20 minutes per game at the start of the season, which will probably render him unusable at the outset regardless of his health - unless those are really productive minutes.
My best guess is that he’ll end up in an injury slot sooner than later – maybe even sooner and later. But he seems worth a 15th round gambit.
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| | | 78 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:32
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for Mike D
15.08 Ryan Gomes, SF/PF, Min
I had Gomes on my radar even before the trade today involving Ricky Davis. But after the trade, I like Gomes even more. I only have one SF eligible player in Battier, and Gomes can fill that spot if necessary. He was very solid in Boston last year and should have ample playing time to perform now in Minnesota. Good percentages and rebounds, with double-digit points.
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| | | 79 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:32
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for Mike V
15.09 Theo Ratliff, C, Min
I didn't have a clue where I was going with this pick until Minn traded Blount. With him gone Theo will get enough minutes to help my dreadfully low block totals with 2 a game.
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| | | 80 | Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 26, 2007, 10:33
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for Mark L
15.10 Robert Swift, C, SEA
Wanted Ryan Gomes here after the trade and was disappointed
when Mike D swiped him two picks before mine. Took Swift on
a pure flyer; he could be a high-single-digit rebounder and shot
blocking specialist, if nothing else trade bait to a team that is
desperate for a C. Also needed to fill the "really goofy looking
guy" slot on my team. In all honesty, he will likely end up on the
waiver wire, but at this point in the draft he looked like as good
a speculative pick as I could find.
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