Self Editor

Forum: hoop
Page 13556
Subject: RIHC 2010-11: Draft Rationales

Posted by: Guru - [330592710] Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 10:05

This thread will be for managers in the RotoGuru Invitational Hoops Challenge to provide the rationale for each pick.

Here are the ground rules:
1. Only managers in this league should post here. If you want to provide feedback (either from other league managers, or from those not in the league), put it in the discussion thread. (Non-conforming discussion in this thread will be deleted.)

2. Try to keep the pick rationales in the same order as the draft. We'll attempt to keep this thread 2 rounds behind the actual draft. With the lag, most comments should not have an impact on the draft in progress. However, if there are aspects of your pick that you feel need to be kept under wraps, feel free to protect that information. In particular, please avoid mentioning the names of any players who are still undrafted at that time of the post.

Please post your (2 round lagged) comments at the time you make your pick. For example, you should post your comments for your round 1 pick when you make your round 3 selection. If you are not ready to post at that time, then create a "placeholder" so that the next person is able to go ahead in sequence. When your post is ready, simply post it in the draft discussion thread and a moderator can copy it over.

If possible, please draft your rationale at the time your are making that pick. Not only does that allow you to remember your thoughts "in the moment", but it also makes it simple to copy and paste it when it is due, avoiding unnecessary delays and/or placeholders.

If your rationale is due and intervening placeholders have not been inserted, please insert them before posting your rationale. Simply post something like
fur Guru
2.10 Robert Pack, PG, Team

This makes it easy for me (or any moderator) to splice the eventual rationale in the proper place.

3. If you are providing rationales after a placeholder has been inserted, then post it in the draft discussion thread, and someone will copy it over.

4. Once the draft is over, each manager is also encouraged to provide a general draft recap, at which time you can discuss your overall strategy, mention any undisclosed factors, comment on what worked out well and what didn't, etc.

The general format should be:
1.01 Kevin Durant, SF, OKC
Several sentences of rationale.

In addition, along with your first player rationale, please comment on your rationale for your selection of draft order.

s R
ID: 2310342414
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 15:17

1.01 Kevin Durant, SF, OKC

Pick selection: I had the first choice and I chose the first slot. With an universal player on the board I feel free to pick the best available player from my list in the next few rounds.
Durant: What can I say? He is the best fantasy basketball player.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 16:58

for Valkyrie
1.02 LeBron James, SF, Mia
For me this was a no brainer- I have never had LeBron in any league I have ever played- I would prefer to have him in/on Cleveland but I'll take what I can get. Statistically I prefer LeBron over Durant as I think the extra assists are more than worth the points. Briefly considered Paul but LeBron provides so much category flexibility that I couldn't pass him up.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 16:59

1.03 Chris Paul, PG, NO
The consensus top 3 were pretty clear. I figured I’d get Paul with this pick, although the 3rd pickers in the two AAA leagues each got LeBron – which would not have bothered me at all!

Paul played only 45 games last year, but in his previous four seasons he managed to play in at least 78 games three times, so lack of durability is not a chronic issue. If he’s on the court, he’s money in assists (10+) and steals (2+) while shooting high percentages (50%/85%). He was last year’s consensus #1 pick, but has slipped this year primarily due the to ascendency of Durant, his recent injury, and perhaps a concern about discontent in New Orleans. Neither of the latter issues seems to be an issue heading into this season.

I often pick nearer the back end of the first round, but this year, it looked to me like a combo of Paul and pick #22 would be at least as good as any combo nearer the end of the round, so I decided to take the bird in the hand (Paul) and play it by ear from there.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 17:17

1.04 Dirk Nowitzki, PF, Dal

Pick 4 was available, as were picks 7-12. I had been planning to be around 7 all along and was considering whether to move to 8-10. Having 4 open presented another option.

I figured if I drafted at 4 I would get Dirk since the top 3 picks are a lock this year. And Dirk was the guy I felt was the solid #4 after them. The next tier seemed very wide, and therefore, it was either Dirk, or drop!

I ultimately took Dirk and expect more of the same from him. He’s a consistent scorer who also adds rebounds and good percentages. His 3’s seem to be declining and it will be nice if he regains more than 1 a game…. though it’s been a few years. Throw in a block a game, and this dude helps me in a lot of ways.

skinneej on the road
ID: 509521519
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 20:10

1.05 Dwayne Wade, PG/SG, MIA

I chose the 5th pick over the 4th as I'd be happy with either Dirk or Wade after the consensus top 3. However, Curry kept creeping up in my rankings as the 5th best player just edging out Dirk. If Wade had gone at #4 I was left deciding between Curry/Dirk and I don't know who I would have chosen. In the end it was easy going Wade at #5.

Wade was a beast last year and was healthy for the second straight year after missing several games in previous seasons. Even with the strained hammy in pre-season, the team is resting him to get him ready to go for the start of the season in full health. While his scoring and assist will be down some, his shooting numbers should improve and I expect over 50% from the field with teams focusing on Lebron. His defensive numbers should also get a boost with less energy expended on offense. Still a solid top 6 player in my book!

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 21:49

for Gescom
1.06 Deron Williams, PG, Utah
Knowing I could pick no higher than 5th, I opted for 6th with the intention to get Deron there. I like this mid-round position, it worked well for me in AAA last year, relieving some pressure to buy higher than needed the guys you really want. I was slighthly worried that Deron could go at 1.05 but skineej made it ok, picking up Wade. What to say about Deron... Elite point guard, a beast in assists, contributes everywhere apart blocks. He has supposedely worked on his conditioning during the offseason which is the cherry on the cake.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 21:51

for Toral
0.07 – 7th Position

Two slots before my turn came, the 4th slot was open but otherwise people had taken the top slots. I had to decide what to do if Mike D had left it open. As I saw it, there were three obvious top choices, and then a group of six or so among whom I couldn’t really distinguish. Thus I didn’t want 4 (which was taken anyway by the time I came up) and could go as low as 9. However when I stretch a tier and take the last slot in it, particularly when picking well before the draft starts, something tends to go wrong. Someone in the tier gets injured or the guy at the bottom of the group turns out to be someone who doesn’t really belong with the others. So I made the dull choice of the top position available.

1.07 Stephen Curry, PG, GS

Nowitski, Williams and Wade were the 3 I liked best after the top triple, and they were systematically picked off. That left Kobe, Granger and Curry as the remaining eligibles. I’ll go with youth, hoping that the new regime and a more traditional offense doesn’t hamper Curry a bit, and that with a new lineup beside him, he’ll hit his 20ppg potential, while adding a significant boost in assists to the steals and 3s.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 23:01

For jasonprof -
1.08 Pau Gasol, PF/C, LAL
The 8th was the first availaible draft position what I could choose. I wanted before the 7th, because I would have liked to get Stephen Curry int he first round. I had really a chance for it, but Toral think the same. Because of the first rounder PG's had lost, I wanted a big man. My "B" plan was Pau Gasol. Gasol is an universal center, only the threes miss from him, his Ft% was getting very good in last three years. Bynum is out for a while, this was the extra pushing to choose him. I hope he will avoid the injuries.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 23:02

For Florian -
1.09 Kobe Bryant, SG, LAL
For draft order I took the highest remaining pick. For this pick I debated between Kobe and Granger. Granger is somewhat better on a per game basis, but it seems likely he'll miss 15-20 games this year just as he had in the last two years. Kobe has missed 16 games in the last 5 years combined. I'd be surprised if he misses more than 10 this year.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sat, Oct 16, 2010, 23:03

No real choice in my draft slot. 10 or 11. I choose 10.

1.10 Danny Granger SF IND
I had projected myself to take Gasol with my pick, so my pre-draft planning was more for my round 2 pick as a match with Gasol. So when Gasol was gone, I had Granger at the top of all my lists. Normally, once the ‘injury-prone’ tag gets placed on a player, I’ll avoid him like the plague. If healthy, Granger’s going to give me round one production with a lot of points, a lot of threes, multiple steals, and shoot a good FT%. But if he only plays 65 games, is he really worth a round one pick?

I also considered Dwight Howard, Rajon Rondo, and Brook Lopez (who I took in round 2).

late add via rotowire- “Granger (ankle) will be out 7-10 days with a sprain, reports Mike Wells of the Indianapolis Star.” … Nuts.

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 04:33

for Goldcoach:
1.11 Dwight Howard, C, ORL
Drafted for me out of my queue he was still my top pick in this spot. Blocks, Rebounds, and improving points should be big pluses here! If he would only bring his free throw pct up!

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 04:37

0.12
I will be away for a few days during the draft (12-14, 19-21) and thought that it might be the best to pick at an end of the draft. #1 was already taken, so I took #12. I have never drafted first or last, so this will be a new experience for me. it will need a different planning this year. simply taking the best player available won't do it.

1.12 Rajon Rondo, PG, BOS
elite PG and young. Bingo! I know that I need to take one PG and one big guy with these picks. first the small guy: Rondo is only 24 and has a lot of veterans around him. this should make it even more easier to pass the ball. I never thought about Kidd or Nash. both may be excellent this season but you never know when their tank is left. Rondo is simply the safer pick.

2.01 David Lee, PF/C, GSW
2nd, the big guy: the Warriors were fantasy heaven last year. their players got a lot of stats and their opponents too. It is believed that with Nelly gone, they will play more defense, but who knows. enter Lee into that picture. good percentages at a high rate. lots of rebounds. combine that with above average assists and steals at his position and you will only find one weakness: blocks. I can live with that. the only other player I considered was Stoudemire, but I don't know how well he will do in NY as Lee's replacement.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 09:30

for Goldcoach
2.02 Steve Nash, PG, PHO
A perfect compliment to Howard. Excellent free throw pct, great assists, nice threes, probably will becalled upon to score a bit more without Amare. Drawbacks are low steals for this position and old legs, kinda like me.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 09:32

2.03 Brook Lopez C NJ
Like I said in my round one rationale, I was doing more planning on whom to match with Gasol using this pick. And one option was definitely Brook Lopez. Filling the two center slots early would be a strategy I’ve never tried before. But then I selected Granger instead. This pick came up (made the turn) faster than I expected, and I was away from the computer, and had to pick via phone and memory of who was on my list. I needed to go big or small with this pick. And I couldn’t remember any PGs that I liked at the time, but I knew that both Lopez and Amare Stoudemire were available, and I would be happy with either.

But I “think” I know what the ceiling for Stoudemire is … even playing on a new team. But Lopez is young and fresh, just entering his third year. He has no weaknesses across the fantasy scoring range except for 3s. And for a big man, his FT% is exceptional.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:24

for Florian
2.04 Amar'e Stoudemire C NYK
I figured I'd pick a PG with this pick, likely Nash or Kidd. Kidd was still available, but so was Amare. I couldn't turn down the chance to pick up an elite centre. Amare is the main option in New York. He has some upside from the last few years. As long as his knee and eye hold up. Kidd's on the downside of his career. I picked the upside with an injury risk.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:24

for Jason
2.05 Tyreke Evans SG SAC
In this round I was thinking about Anthony, Iguodala and Evans. Last year Evans was my player, he played a very big role in my good position. This is the emotional part. Besides Evans was very close to the triple double at the end of last season, I hope he will reach it sometimes this year. He have to improve in FT%, and threes. If he managed it, my pick wouldn't seem longer too early.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:25

for Toral
2.06 Carmelo Anthony, SF, Den
I was hoping that one of Stoudemire or Lopez would make it to me but they were taken 2 and 3 slots ahead of me. Question is whether he’ll play hard, and frequently, as he tries to look good for his future employer. So far this preseason it looks like the playing hard part is no problem, but I'm concerned that he'll be taking/being given some days off so long as he's in Denver, their main interest being to keep his trade value alive. Solid producer of points and FT%. Some expect a spike in rebounding, which would really top off his value. If he’s traded he’ll be playing for the big contract, should thrive anywhere he’s sent.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:25

for Gescom
2.07 Josh Smith PF ATL
I was hoping to get either Melo or Josh there. Melo got picked right in front of me which made Josh a no brainer. Simply put, I felt he was the best player available at 2.07.

Josh is solid everywhere in a very stable team. His block ability is the nice little added touch. His FG increase last year after he stopped chucking threes makes him even more interesting. I expect him to deliver same numbers as last year.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:25

for Skinneej
2.08 Chauncey Billups PG DEN

I had planned to get a solid PG with the 2nd pick regardless of whether I got Wade or Dirk at #1. My order was Nash, Billups, Kidd so with Nash having gone several picks before, Billups was the go to guy this year. Last year I paired Wade and Kidd and it worked out well, but with less scoring from Wade expected this year, I decided Billups was a better fit. Josh Smith would have been a nice addition had he made it one more spot, but in the end it was good to get Mr Big Shot!

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:26

for Mike D
2.09 Chris Bosh, PF/C, Mia
I could have gone many directions here. I would probably have taken Billups but skinneej took him the pick before me, adding to our longstanding historic battles of doing just that. The easy pick would have been Jason Kidd, and I penciled him in several times. But even with his excellent stats, I decided to look elsewhere.

I decided to grab Bosh and go small when it came back around since I thought there would be some really strong choices at guard. I really wanted both Kidd and Bosh, but had to choose, unfortunately. I think Bosh will do well in Miami this year with their personnel changes. He has the playing time and even pressure to justify the money. We’ve seen him play with LeBron and Wade before on Team USA, and he should benefit from having them around to create and draw the D, as opposed to when Bosh was the Man in Toronto.

Bosh may not reach 20 points a game but will be close. He could drop under 10 boards a game, but will be close. Throw in a block a game and good percentages, and I like this pick.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:28

2.10 Andre Iguodala, SG/SF, Phi
Going into this pick, my short list was Carmelo, Josh Smith, Bosh, Gerald Wallace, and Iggy. I really didn’t expect Carmelo & Josh to last – but they would have been quick picks if they had. Bosh was an interesting option, but as I waited for Mike D to select, I had narrowed down the field to Wallace or Iguodala.

Both players tend to be stat fillers, with no particular spike of strength. Wallace has better big stats, while Iggy will probably get more assists and treys. Scoring should be similar. The percentages probably favor Wallace, although with some of the changes in the Sixers lineup, Iggy may be handling the ball less and driving to the basket more – which should help his FG% (although probably at the expense of treys).

On the basis of expected per-game stats, I’d take Wallace. But Wallace is always an injury waiting to happen, missing an average of about 15 games per year in the past five seasons. Last year was his high-water mark in GP with 76. Iggy has played all 82 games in four of the last five season, and the only year he fell short was in 2006, when he also played in 76. It’s unlikely that a good second round draft pick is going to carry a team to the top, but a botched pick – with a lot of missed games – could certainly blow it. In my latest RIBC draft, I took Jacoby Ellsbury in round 2, and his lengthy downtime killed me. In the latest RIFC, Ryan Grant was my second rounder. Hopefully, I’m not putting the hex on Iguodala (knock on wood), but I really feel like the projected consistency in games played is ample to give Iggy the nod.

A side benefit is that his SG/SF eligibility gives me a lot of flex, as he can fill 8 of the 12 possible starting slots.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 14:51

2.11 Brandon Jennings, PG, Milw
I decided I wanted to go G here. Maybe a stretch for another of the high schoolers but Jennnings minutes will increase by 20-25% and we don't get penalized for turnovers. Also considered Westbrook (poor FG%, no 3's) Kidd (I love the guy but he is getting up there and poor % but at least he doesn't shoot much) and another unnamed guard.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 16:44

for s R
2.12 Gerald Wallace, SF, Cha
My "best available" tactic begun with Crash. He's an all-around ball player who swiped two steals and swapped 1.2 blocks per game over the last five seasons. Not too many threes and assists but the double-doubles per game and the improving free throw percentage makes him a great multi-category fantasy player. For more about Wallace see Guru's rationale 2 post above.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 16:45

for s. R
3.01 Brandon Roy, SG/SF, Por
The next best. The Blazers are not the ideal team for fantasy, but Roy is an elite swingman, who can score, rebound with steals and threes. A must pick here for me. Without the injury concerns i would have taken Roy in previous round. :)

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 16:52

3.02 Roy Hibbert, C, Ind
Wanted blocks with this pick-another reach on a young player getting more minutes this year- I will share the blame with Rotowire if this turns out to be a bust. Others considered here were Jefferson, in my mind the best player available but the injury risk scared me off and Westbrook again.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 17, 2010, 16:57

3.03 Al Jefferson, C, Utah
Was hoping to pick a big here, with Jefferson and Horford as the leading contenders. Surprised to have my choice of the two. Was really hoping that only one would remain, making the selection easier.

My first inclination was to take Horford, as I already have the Iguodala/Jefferson tandem in a keeper league. In fact, I wrote up my rationale for Horford – and then after reading it, I decided that Jefferson was really the better fit, as I could use the extra scoring and blocks. Horford would have really solidified my shooting percentages, but without a prodigious scorer among my top two picks, I can’t defer much longer.

Hopefully he can get his FT% back over 70% so that I don’t dig too deep a hole there.

And hopefully, he and Iggy can stay relatively healthy this season, or else it’s going to be a long year for me.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 00:11

3.04 Jason Kidd, PG, Dal

When I took Bosh, I expected some good guards to be on the board at this spot. Much to my surprise, Kidd was still available, and I could not pass up his premium stats and lofty roto ranking year after year. I don’t mind if his minutes are slightly cut because he can use the rest. He will produce and produce well. I love getting him with the 28th pick.

As much as I wanted and needed a guard, I was struggling with whether to take Kidd or Al Jefferson. Guru took Big Al, and I may owe him one for doing it. It would have been wild to start with 3 big men, something I’ve never done.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 00:12

for skinneej
3.05 Al Horford, PF/C, ATL

Hmmm...so far so good. Got the big guy I wanted with this pick. Sounds like Horford/Jefferson was the big decision for a couple managers, but I have scoring covered so far, so like the solid balanced numbers Horford puts up. If he gives me the same numbers as last year, I'm happy!

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 00:14

for Gescom
3.06 Monta Ellis, SG/PG, GS

I could not believe Monta was still availbale at 3.06. I had him going for a late second round at the latest. Elite scorer and stealer who does a lot more and with decent percentages. Even if new GS Head Coach is more defense oriented - Not very difficult after Nellie - I still expect plenty of points and steals from Monta and a lot more. He has even displayed new 3pt shooting touch in the preseason, hopefully he can carry this into the season to be one of the corner stones of my team.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 00:15

for Toral
3.07 Andrea Bargnani, PF/C, TOR
I feel queasy when drafting a big man who doesn’t really play like a big man, but I liked the potential here. As a Raptor fan I expect him to play better post-Bosh and that would be key to making this a good rather than just OK pick. I don’t expect any more rebounding so my other PF/C will have to hit the boards. Considered as a PF he does bring 3s, some blocks, and a good FT% and will be the go-to guy and leading scorer.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 00:16

for jasonprof
3.08 J. Noah, PF/C, CHI

In the nex two rounds I wanted a real PG, and a second good C with blocks. Noah and D. Collison were my targeted players.I have to decide what will be the order to ensure getting all of them.
Noah a fantastic center, a lot of rebounds, assists, and blocks. His percentages are very good, last year the FT% is too. He steals the ball, maybe the point average is not so high (and threes of course), but no problem. He will be a top 10 center this year.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 11:43

for Florian -
3.09 David West PF NOR
When Kidd fell to the end of the second round I tried very hard to trade up to get him. But I couldn't work out a trade. So I was left drafting. I really wanted a PG, but I couldn't convince myself to draft Collison. For some reason I never really considered Westbrook. So I ended taking a relatively safe pick in West. He'll average close to 20 points and 8 boards with good percentages and close to a steal and a block per game. I considered Duncan and Joe Johnson as well.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 11:43

3.10 – Russell Westbrook PG OKC

It’s time to add a PG to the roster while there are still some good ones. I can’t believe that you guys left Westbrook for me. He went in round 2 in both of the AAA leagues. He’s young with a young athletic team. His FG% is in the low 40s, due to his bricklaying skills from behind the line. But at least he makes enough to make it almost worthwhile. His speed leads to solid steals, rebounds, and an ability to create his own shot. He’s a lot better than the only other two players I considered … Darren Collison and Aaron Brooks.

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 13:13

for Goldcoach
3.11 Tim Duncan, PF/C, SAS
As this selection came closer my PF choices were disappearing while there were still some guards out there, and then there was only Duncan and three guards. I took Duncan here because I was pretty sure that YR would grab him on the turn, and I was wiling to take whichever of the guards was left.

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 13:15

3.12 Joe Johnson, SG/SF, ATL
another turn, again it was the plan to take one guard and one big man. Rondo falls short on threes, so I better grab a player here to fill that void. Joe Johnson is excellent in that. Even his FG% isn't that bad and he fills up the other stats too.

I thought about Darren Collison too, but in the end the 3s made the difference

4.01 Marcus Camby, PF/C, POR
and now the big guy: there were some other choices out there, but the Blazers are short on healthy big guys which should give Camby even more opportunities while playing the same amount of minutes. he should be good for 10+ rebounds and 2+ blocks per game. he should be in the top10 in both of these categories without hurting too much in others. I am a fan of the Cambyman since his time with the Knicks. altough he has always his injury issues he still plays around 70 games every season. this is pretty much the same that is expected from Duncan, Nene or all other still available centers.

update: shortly after I drafted it was revealed that he missed lats nights preseason game not because of precaution. he would have also missed it if it would have beed a regular season game. maybe they play it more safe this year to keep him healthy. I don't know if this will good for his fantasy value. I better wait until Christmas to judge this draft pick.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 13:42

for Goldcoach
4.02 Paul Pierce SF BOS
Having taken Duncan with my last pick I planned on a guard here. After YR made his picks I was still looking at Pierce and Baron Davis in the queue. Most pundits had Pierce a little higher than Davis, although I like the steals Baron offers when he's focused...that's why I took Pierce; Baron can lose his focus/drive/desire/etc... at any time. I think he's better than Pierce when he wants to be, but Pierce will be more consistant over the course of a season.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 13:43

4.03 - Darren Collison PG IND

I've decided to go with a PG (again) or C/PF with this pick. Looking ahead to 20 picks from now, it looks like there will be more big men available than Guards, so I'll go for a PG with back-to-back picks. It's between Collison and Aaron Brooks. I'm big fan of Brooks, as I am also an Oregon Duck. But Brooks is a poor complement to previously-drafted Danny Granger, as they both shoot so many 3s and score lots of points. My FG% is already handicapped due to Russell Westbrook, and Collison is a better shooter (both FG% & FT%) than Brooks. So even though my heart says 'Brooks', my spreadsheet says Collison ... and I opt for that direction.

I expect my weaknesses heading into the next round will be Rebounds, Blocks, and FG%. Sounds like time for a big man, and I hope that some are left!

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:05

for Florian
4.04 Manu Ginobili, SG, SA
I was still looking for a PG, but none of the options seemed appealing at this point. So I debated between Ginobili and Love. I picked Ginobili hoping that Love might fall back to me in the 5th round. Ginobili consistantly ranks in the top 20 roto performers year after year on a per game basis, while only playing 25-30 minutes per game. And now that SA is no longer dominant Ginobili will be forced to play extra minutes in the regular season, which should help him pile up stats. The main concern with Manu is injuries. I'll just hope he manages to stay healthy and plays 75 games.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:07

for Jasonprof
4.05 John Wall PG WAS
Jumping in the dark? I don't think. I know picking up a rookie in the fourth round is a dangerous step, but.. he is a real talent, who produced in the preseason games fantastic.. he will get a lot of minutes from the coach.. he is a PG who not only can handle the ball, but rebounded it, steal it, and block it.. he was picked up in the fourth round in almost all leagues.. he left me because Tosh took out D. Collison.

The weak point is the threes, but I hope he will improve in this area too.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:08

for Toral
4.06 Zach Randolph PF MEM
With Bargnani as my other PF/C, I wanted a PF/C here who hits the boards well for a PF. Last year was the first in 5 when Randolph played over 71 games but he played 80. He is a 20/10 guy, throws in some steals and assists, has decent %s for a putative big. Any comments about drug busts or strip club fights might be defamatory so be careful. Too much talent to let him fall any further for reliability issues.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:25

4.07 Marc Gasol, C, MEM

After selecting 3 guards and forwards in the first three rounds, it was time to go big at round 4. I was targeting Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol in that order and was really hoping one will get to me as I was ranking following PF/C way below this duo. Zach was picked right in front of me, so here we come Marc !

In addition of his solid 15 pts / 10 rbs per game, what makes the little brother special is his incredible FG%, second only to Howard in the top 15 Centers. His FT% is a bit embarassing but he contributes in all other categories apart from threes. I would be happy enough if he delivers same numbers as previous season while staying healthy.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:50

for skinneej
4.08 Kevin Love, PF/C, Min
I had targeted a big man here, and was considering Gasol, Love and Boozer. Wall was at the top of my queue so had he made it 3 more spots would have gotten him, but figured I could still wait for another pg in the next couple rounds. Love is center eligible which is a plus, and he has shown he's a double double machine while shooting well from the line. Add in some 3s that he is taking more, and this is a nice grab late in round 4.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 18:50

4.09 Aaron Brooks, PG, Hou

I really wanted to get Brooks with this pick because I felt he fit in as a perfect complement to Kidd in the backcourt. I had to go out for a while and put Brooks in my queue first, with Marc Gasol as a backup plan. After sweating it for a while, I really expected to get Brooks when I left because it didn’t look like Gescom or skinneej would need a guard. Ironically, Gescom took Gasol, but skinneej gave himself some Love, and I got my man.

In his first year as starter Brooks only averaged 19.6 points, 5.3 assists, 0.8 steals and 2.5 3-pointers while shooting 82.2 percent from the line. Just a few steals and assists per game away from being an elite fantasy player, Brooks has some room to improve and he certainly has the ability to make the jump into the upper echelon of fantasy point guards in 2010-11.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 20:18

4.10 Danilo Gallinari, SF, NYK
I had tentatively penciled in Love and Gallinari for my 4/5 picks. Love just disappeared, but Gallinari is still there. I’m surprised to see Derrick Rose still available, however. I thought for awhile about going for Rose, but decided that he wasn’t as good a fit for my needs – which are treys and FT%. Gallinari should drain about 200 treys, and shoots almost 82% from the line, while getting to the stripe about 300 times. At age 22, there is certainly upside in all other stats as well.

I’m going to stick with the plan. I’ll find a Love replacement in round 5.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 20:58

4.11 Raymond Felton, PG, NYK
Well this pick was in the middle of the NFL games. I will attempt to justify it on the basis that it is a system pick- i.e any PG in a 7 second offense playing no defense should get 600 assists and 160 steals a year- besides Felton is good old ACC guy. Of course this was all before I read he reported over weight (for a Mike D'Antoni offense?)and had no rappore with Stoudamire. In retrospect I think there were better options available but maybe the NY system will save me-

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 21:01

for s R
4.12 Rudy Gay SF MEM
The next guy from my list, Gay took a big step forward last season, bumping his numbers nicely upward after a down season in ‘08-09. He will contribute in every category except assists, and his steals are an added bonus to his all-around game. A rock-solid fantasy forward option for me and I hope he could really explode.

5.01 Jason Richardson SG PHO
The small guard position seems thinner than last years, so Richardson is a good fit here. His numbers should get an all-round boost with Amar'e gone, making him a candidate for a bounce-back year. He can get back to the 20 points per game range, especially if his playing time rises after a career-low 31.5 minutes per game last season. He dealt with a bruised shoulder earlier in the preseason, but that does not appear to be an issue any longer for the veteran.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 21:07

5.02 Antawn Jamison, SF/PF, Cleve
Back to back UNC guys by a Duke Alum- I will certainly pay for that. Jamison is a steady source of points and REB's with a decent shooting %. Although he really fares much better with a top notch PG to feed him he will have a lot more shots available to him with LaBron gone. Having picked a poor rebounding center Hibbert I needed to shore up my REB's here.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 21:08

5.03 Paul Millsap, PF, Utah
I wanted a big here, and with Love gone, my choice was between Millsap and Nene. They have fairly similar statistical profiles, so I went with Millsap based on durability, and slightly better blocks. His FT% is not great (70%), but OK for a big.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Mon, Oct 18, 2010, 23:46

5.04 Chris Kaman, C, LAC

I went around the world before arriving at Kaman. Was leaning either Derrick Rose or Mo Williams, and then decided to go big. Rose went with the next pick and I really wanted to take him, but I just felt Kaman would give me some good roster balance at this point. I also didn’t like the other bigs that would be around when I picked again. I think taking Kaman at #52 was a tad early, BUT, I don’t pick again until #69, and I didn’t want to gamble that he’d make it back to me. If I felt he would have, I’d have gone Williams or Rose.

Kaman was an All-Star last year. I don’t expect the new additions to the team to hurt him this year too much. Solid boards, FG%, and blocks, with decent scoring. Also, not too shabby from the line. Battled some injuries in some earlier years but seems healthy and ready to play well again this year. Anything close to last year’s stats would be a welcome addition.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 00:10

5.05 Derrick Rose, PG, CHI
Wanted to take another solid pg in rounds 5-7 and Rose was too good to pass up here. He doesn't necessarily help in the areas I am weakest in right now, but I will address those later. Great young player with more upside in pts and assists, if only he would work on his defensive stats he would be a top 30 player.

Toral
ID: 489121816
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 09:25

For Gescom:
5.06 Lamarcus Aldridge, PF, POR

Prime intent for round 5 was still to go big to pair with Gasol. However, as the pick was getting closer, Rose was still up for grab which is probably where I would have gone should he made it to me. But Skineej decided for me so I went back to initial plan.

I considered Aldridge, Blatche and Nene. Off all three, I was ranking Blatche as the one with most upsidse potential but also somehow a risky pick, from injuries to doghouses problems. Was also a bit scared with Nene about injuries so went quite easily to Aldridge as the safest of all three. Good power forward contributing a bit everywhere. Portland is not a dream fantasy team and crowded frontcourt may take a toll on Aldridge numbers if all are healthy but happy with the pick overall.

Toral
ID: 489121816
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 09:26

5.07 Stephen Jackson, SG/SF, Cha

Jackson will score 20 points a game for Charlotte as the centerpiece of the offence. He can approach 5 boards, 4 assists, and 1.5 steals and assists per game. The problem of course is the FG%, which I want to have stay over .420 or so. Overall the other contributions make up for this as a F/G I think. The Bobcats have severe problems so Jackson’ll be out there putting in the 39+ minutes early.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 13:41

for jasonprof
5.08 Andray Blatche, PF/C, WAS
I was excited, bacause I wanted Blatche. I can use him at center position, but actually he is a PF. Last year after the Jamison-Butler era (end at the beginning of the season when Jamison was injured) his performance was amazing. He is the type of player who are my favourites, who fills the stats. At the end of the last year he started throw the 3pointers too, and i hope a big jump in this area this year.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 13:42

for Florian -
5.09 Nene Hilario, PF/C, DEN
Once again I was looking for a PG and once again I ended up not drafting one. I considered Baron Davis, Mo Williams and Devon Harris. But Nene was still undrafted and seemed significantly better than any other remaining centers. So I drafted Nene and figured one of the PGs would come back to me on the turn. Nene will has averaged about 14 points and 7.5 boards with more than one steal and one block per game along with a ridiculous 59% FG over the last two years. I'm hoping for a similar year from him, especially with the lack of depth in the Denver frontcourt.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 13:43

5.10 - Jeff Green PF OKC

Few things are more frustrating in these sorts of drafts then waiting for four hours for the guy before you to make a pick ... and then he picks the one guy you really want. My team really needs a big man, and I watched all my targets picked off the board.

Green is a bit under-sized to be a PF. But his athleticism allows him to overcome this weakness, and he contributes across the fantasy scoreboard in all categories. He doesn't really address my main weakness in FG%, and doesn't get as many rebounds as I would want, but he'll be a fun player to look at the stats for every morning.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 14:13

For Goldcoach -
5.11 Devin Harris PG NJN
Devin was on of the guards I had in my queue at the turn lat time out. Most pundits have him #46 or higher, and to pick him up at 59 to me is a steal! Aggressive and in a high pace offense should yield lots of assists and steals, thanks guys.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 14:13

For YoungRoman -
5.12 Kevin Garnett, PF, BOS
another 2 picks, another time where I want to keep it balanced with a small and a big guy. Garnett looks healthier than in his first 2 seasons with the Celtics and I hope this pays off. I want to see a lot of action between him and my 1st round pick Rajon Rondo. if he only can stay healthy.
6.01 Mo Williams, PG, CLE
and the small guy is Mo Williams. With LeBron gone there are some easy stats to get for the Cavs. Mo could fill a bit of the void when it comes to assists. he is already a force on the line and finally gets me the 3s that my team needs. I also thought about Kevin Martin, but I can't take a guy that is injured every year for an extended period. too much risk at this point of the draft.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 14:14

For GoldCoach -
6.02 Troy Murphy PF NJN
This was my first really difficult choice in the draft (so far). I had in mind PF for this pick and was looking at two and two only, Murphy (obviously) and Blake Griffin. I was pretty sure that Blake would not make it back to me, so I needed to be sure. With Howard and Duncan already in the fold I figured I would opt for Murphy and garner a few extra threes in lieu of RBs. However when Blake was picked with the VERY NEXT PICK the second guessing began...Thanks a lot Tosh.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 14:16

6.03 - Blake Griffin PF LAC

I've decided that my last four picks are too old (ages 22, 22, 23, 24). I need to go younger, and at age 21, Blake Griffin is a perfect fit.

But really, Griffin is a wildcard leading into drafts this season, after missing all of last season. But he's had a monster pre-season. The 2009 No. 1 overall pick is averaging 19.3 points, 13.5 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.5 blocks through four preseason contests. On one "top 200" list I'm following, he was in the mid-80s a couple weeks ago, in the mid-50s last week, and in the mid 40s now. And Rotowire has not updated their projections for Griffin, so maybe that's why he's slipped to round #6. I'm hoping for a bunch of double-doubles, and round 4 production.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 21:54

for Florian
6.04 Baron Davis, PG, LAC
I finally drafted a PG. Baron has second round talent, but often deosn't really seems interested in playing. I'm hoping that he'll show up to play this year. As long as he plays at least 70 games I figure I'll get reasonable value for Baron as a 6th round pick.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 21:54

for Jason
6.05 O.J. Mayo, SG, Mem
After the first five rounds, when I wanted to ensure quality centers for my team I had to start collecting some 3-pointers. I hesitated between Mayo and Holiday. Holiday had a very impressing game before this pick, and he is the starting PG but he had a strong competitor with Williams in the team. I think Mayo will play around 35 minutes per game, he has a very good shooting skill, I hope he will make almost 2 threes in a game.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 21:55

for Toral
6.06 Jrue Holiday, PG, Phi
A man’s reach must exceed his grasp, or what’s an RIHC berth for?

I wanted a second PG type and Mo Williams and Arenas, both of whom I had considered in the previous round, had understandably been taken. I was a little annoyed at Holiday for attracting notice, even in Guru’s blurbs, by putting up a triple double in a preseason game (against Toronto) and thereby drawing undue attention to himself. Everything I have read has been suggesting that he has been moving up the draft boards steadily for weeks with constant warnings like “If you want this guy don’t wait too long, because he’s already at 2 or 3 rounds above his initial rankings”. I kept doing things like looking at an expert draft where the author picked Jrue in mid-5th round and the picker worried that he may have reached, but was gratified by hearing “Dammit”s in the room after the pick.

Folks have said he could be a top-10 PG. He could also disappoint or get injured. Needing a second PG, I chose to opt for youth and potential.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Tue, Oct 19, 2010, 21:56

for Gescom
6.07 Rashard Lewis, SF/PF, Orl
At this point of the draft, it was time to look at weak categories once the starting five has been supposedly put together. Behind in threes and FT%, choice of Lewis became evident. Good all around player, not really weak anywhere, he's certainly not in the prime of his career but hopefully has still some gas in the tank.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 07:32

for skinneej
6.08 6.08 Kevin Martin, SG, HOU
I wanted a player here with a high volume of 3s, so when Rashard Lewis was taken right before me, I had to look elsewhere. Considered Martin, Gordon, Ariza, and Ray Allen, but even with the injury concerns with Martin he was by far the BPA of all those in my rankings. I was still reluctant to take him almost opting for Gordon, but let's hope that decision doesn't hurt me later in the season.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 07:32

6.09 Andrew Bogut, C, Mil

I had a large queue and was really having difficulty pinpointing who I wanted. The very moment I started to pencil Kevin Martin in, skinneej took him. I think I am really controlling his picks…. somehow, someway. I will use that to my advantage from now on! After I was done laughing, I refocused.

Scott Skiles says he’s been watching Bogut play 5 v 5 the whole month of September, and now, in October, he does not plan any minutes restrictions once the real games begin. Last year----15.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in 69 games. One of the league's most dominant centers who was leading his team into the playoffs before injury. A former #1 pick, he is no fluke, and at this juncture seemed too good to pass up.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 07:36

6.10 Luis Scola, PF,C Hou

Was hoping for a big man and a shooter with this next pair of picks. For the shooter, I had targeted either Kevin Martin or Eric Gordon. For the big, the choices were Scola, Boozer, or Bogut. Looking at the two teams who pick between now and my 7th rounder, I thought that Gordon might be more likely to last, to I went with the big this time.

Scola has yet to miss a game in his NBA career. While not a shot blocker, he has a chance to be a 20-10 player this year, with solid percentages (51%/78% last year). At age 30, not really on the upslope, but just hoping for solid contributions where he is strong, and above all – stay healthy. That itself is more than I could rightly expect from Boozer.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 11:44

6.11 Tony Parker, PG, SA
After Skineel, Mike and Guru slayed me with Martin, Bogut and Scola when they had all come so close to me I moved to Plan B or maybe it is Plan C or D, with Tony Parker- The guy is only 28, his wife is hot, he's averaged 18+ PPG, 6 assists while shooting almost 50% and he isn't that old yet. He deserves a little respect and hopefully I can get 70 games a year from him. Still he's not Martin, Bogut or Scola in that order. Afraid I won't forget that fleecing.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 14:18

for S R
6.12 Carlos Boozer- PF, Chi
It was a pleasent surprise that the two guys left from the top of my list (and my queue) was a center eligible and a point guard eligible player. Boozer had a monster 2009-2010 season before joining the Bulls. He is now looking at playing only 60-to-65 games this season, but his 20-and-10 upside is enough to take an injury risk on. I think, Boozer was a decent option at this point.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 14:19

for S R

7.01 Gilbert Arenas- PG, Wash
With the addition of rookie guard John Wall, Arenas shifting to the two-guard slot, I expect less assists, but the scoring and treys will be there. If healthy and focused Arenas is elite, the steals and decent rebounding will all be welcome for me.

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 14:23

7.02 Anthoney Randolph

Wanted Boozer here - my streak of devasting preceding picks continues. Settled for Anthoney Randolph despite poor pub that he is the new Nate Robinson, lacks a basketball IQ, and essentailly is just too dumb to utilize his great athleticism- sounds a lot like a taller Brandon Jennings to me. I promise to pick someone who is literate before this draft is over.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 14:59

7.03 Eric Gordon, SG, LAC
At age 21, hoping for some upward development this year. Solid hold on the SG position for the Clips. Excellent 3-point shooter, yet still drains FGs at a 45% clip overall. Not sure why his FT% was so poor (relatively speaking – 74%) last year, after draining them at 85% the year before. Hoping for some mean reversion there, and a smattering of the other guard stats.

Mike D
ID: 2293167
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 18:25

7.04 Ray Allen, SG, Bos

Considered Eric Gordon (Guru took him the pick before), Terry, and even Stuckey here, since all were similar and gave me things my team needs. Ultimately decided on Allen because he’s been so steady over the years and I like his chances to get more looks with more bigs in Beantown this year to screen for him. I also wanted some good FT% and he is incredible in that area. His FG% is surprisingly good. He can’t steal like he used to, but he’ll pick a few. And did I mention he can drain some 3 balls?

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:26

for skinneej
7.05 Lamar Odom, SF/PF, LAL
Had things gone differently in the draft, probably would have ended up with Lewis last round and Gordon or Allen this round. Instead, wanted a forward here and my options were Odom, Ariza or Butler. Haven taken Martin last round, Ariza was less attractive since both are similar chuck it up type players. Butler was very tempting and the steals nearly put him over the top. In the end, Odom's fairly balanced across the board and contributes in several cats so he was the best choice I felt.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:27

for Gescom
7.06 Caron Butler SG DAL
In his first full season in Dallas, he has the opportunity to fluorish. Good everywhere and nice in steals.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:27

for Toral
7.07 Trevor Ariza SG NOR
I don’t pay all that much attention to the general “top 200” type lists I have sitting around, but I couldn’t help but notice that on more than one of them Ariza was sitting all by itself as by far the highest rated guy not yet drafted. One list, specifically for roto, by a reputable sports media organization had him listed one spot below Dirk Nowitski! (Maybe I ought to throw that one out….) I guess some people get scared off by a little thing like a 39.4% shooting percentage….

Being set up by Chris Paul should do wonders for that shooting percentage, and I see a bounce-back year for him. He’ll help me a lot in 3s and steals.

I had been considering Ray Allen but he went 4 slots before. And I spent a lot of time debating between Ariza and Caron Butler, all wasted when Gescom snagged him just before me.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:27

for jasonprof
7.08 Demarcus Cousins C SAC
The second rookie on my team, and this is only the seventh round. I have to be more cautious, maybe.. Dalembert is out for a while so Cousins the number 1 option as center in Sacramento at the beginning of the season. He will be enough time to confirm his position and I hope the most part of center time will belong to him irrespective if Dalembert is healthy or not.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:28

for Florian
7.09 John Salmons SF MIL
John Salmons averaged 19.9 points, 3 boards, 3 assists, 1.5 3PTM, 1.1 steals with a 47% FG and shot 87%FT in Milwaukee last year. With all of Milwaukee's new acquistions those numbers might go down a little bit, but even accounting for a small drop in production he's good value in the seventh round. I considered picking Udrih, Kirilenko, Terry and Brand with this pick.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:29

7.10 - Rodney Stuckey PG/SG DET

One more youngster for my team. Stuckey plays PG, but will fill the role of SG on my roster. He seems to be able to contribute in most of the fantasy categories, and is scoring well in the preseason. He's still no help to my team's FG% woes however.

Goldcoach
ID: 439131016
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 21:47

7.11 Vince Carter, SG/SF, ORL

I'm getting a bit worried, it seems a lot of my players have old legs and knees; but then experience is a good thing. Vince is still a player maker although less consistent/explosive than in his younger days. I'm thinking he'll perform a wee better this year than last plus he's a Tar Heel.

Goldcoach
ID: 439131016
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 22:01

for Yr
7.12 Jameer Nelson, PG, ORL
first pick while I was in Verona. I remember setting up a pretty long queue for this pick hoping that I don't end up with 2 players playing the same position. turned out that it worked.

Assists, acceptable FG%, great FT%. what else do you want from a PG at the end of round 7? only steals and points are below average. I haven't looked which other PGs were still available at this point, but I doubt that they are much better.

8.01 Emeka Okafor, C, NOH
positive things:
- he played all games the last 3 seasons
- more than 1.5 blocks per game
- could average a double-double
- great FG%, which is expected by a center

bad things:
- bad FT%, at least he only gets to the line about 4 times per game.
- steals could be better
- he had career lows in many categories last year, is he already on the decline? or is this the style of the Hornets?

in the end the positive things were worth more to me than the negative ones. lets hope for the best. and a healthy Chris Paul to feed him.

Goldcoach
ID: 439131016
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 22:06

8.02 YAO MING, C, HOU

He's looked pretty good in pre-season, albeit in limited minutes. I'm hoping he will continue to produce at a high rate as he's eased back into longer segments of time. I hope by mid December to be seeing some really good lines from him. He's not far removed from a top twenty pick.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Oct 20, 2010, 22:11

8.03 - Luol Deng SF CHI

A pretty decent mid-round pick that can contribute across all the categories. He's been shooting more threes in the pre-season than projected, so his value will go up if he keeps that up. I'll have to wait and see if the return of Carlos Boozer has much negative impact on his game.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:37

For Florian
8.04 Andrei Kirilenko, SF/PF, UTA
Kirilenko is the starting SF in Utah. Which is important as he plays much better as a starter. I picked him up for the steals/blocks that he brings. He also averages at least 5 boards, 3 assists and .5 3PTM. Now if only he can stay healthy. Between Kirilenko, Baron, Ginobili and Amare it seems likely I'll be making good use of the injury slots this year.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:38

For Jasonprof
8.05 Al Harrington, PF/C, Den
In this round I decided to choose a PG, Augustin or Conley. But I thought at least Augustin will remain for me later, because I read some articles that Livingston will be the starter for the Bobcats. (It was a wrong idea, because both of them were picked up before me).

Some years ago I wanted to get Harrington, but I didn't manage it. This year it was the possibility, and I decided. Harrington is not healthy now, and didn't play in the preseason games, but healthier than others, and will be able to play soon. In absence of two he can get enough minutes to produce in points, threes, and rebounds. And if Carmelo would be traded, his value would be higher.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:38

For Toral
8.06 Elton Brand, PF/C, PHI
Looking for a PF or C here. With what he’s being paid I expect Brand will play for as much as his aged frame can take. As we’re heading into the land of people with PT issues there’s something to be said for someone who will be out there whenever he can play. If healthy, he fills a stat line very nicely, contributing something in everything but 3s. He has been said to look healthy in pre-seasonWhile [undrafted player] is out he may be starting at center, which should allow for an uptick in rebounds. This may have been a reach but I do feel comfortable with someone who unquestionably has, or at least had, the talent.

Also considered Beasley and Frye here.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:40

For Gescom
8.07 Hedo Turkoglu, SG/SF, PHO
A bit of a high risk, high reward pick.
Just out of a terrible season in Toronto where he struggled in all areas, the sun of Phoenix will hopefully do him so good. Adaption to PF slot is a question mark and he won't be able to run the offense as he likes. But if he gets closer to the production of his Orlando years, he's a steal at round 8.

100

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:40

8.08 Tyrus Thomas, SF/PF, CHA
It was time to go big again, and I considered Thomas, Beasley, Landry and Frye. Would have really liked AK47 at this spot, but he was grabbed a few picks prior. Needed to address blocks, so of these players, Tyrus Thomas is the most prodigious in that area. He seemed to forge a good relationship with Larry Brown last season, and should get starter minutes off the bench this year. He has shown the ability to shoot over 70% from the FT line, so that is a nice find for a shot blocker at this point in the draft. He also gets a solid amount of steals for a PF, so if he can manage to stay on good terms with LB, he could be a great value for me!

101

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:42

for Mike D
8.09 JJ Hickson, DF, Cle
My team is looking old. I’ll add Hickson who is young and spry, And pretty good. With lots of playing time ahead. Excellent rebounder who can block a few shots, and can also score and a nice percentage.

102

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 12:43

8.10 Mike Conley, PG, Mem
Entering his fourth NBA season, but just turned age 23. I’m hoping for a breakout year. In his last 23 games last season he averaged 16.5 points, 5.5 assists, 2 steals, and 0.75 treys. He will be in a contract year this season and does not have much competition for playing time.

I would have taken Ty Thomas if he has lasted to this point. Hickson was also on my short list.

103

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 15:01

8.11 Andrew Bynum part-time C, LAL

A powerful young producing center when he is physically fit to play. Hope to get 60 games from him. Yet another high schooler- My team is going to need to have a GED class on off days.

104

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 15:02

for SR

8.12 JaVale McGee- C- wash
I needed a classic center. McGee missed quite a bit of time last season, so health will be a good first step in his development. He is averaging 10 points per game on the preseason and is also grabbing around seven boards per game over 20 minutes. A great source of rebounds and blocks if he gets the minutes.

105

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 15:03

for S R
9.01 Beno Udrih, G, sac
Also needed a classic PG. I think, Udrih is an undervalued source of points, assists and steals. And his shooting averages are very good...

106

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 15:09

9.02 Nicholas Batum- SG, Portland

With pick #98 I am taking the popular sleeper pick who will pick up a 30% increse in minutes as starting SG for Portland- yet another high schooler but at least this ones a Euro-pro. There are really a ton of equals to pick in here and this is where fantasy championships are won or lost- Also strongly considered Beasley, Crawford and Mike Miller.

107

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 15:22

9.03 Robin Lopez, C, Pho
Was looking for some blocks here, and had Javale McGee at the top of my list – but no luck. Lopez won’t be as prodigious a shot blocker, but also won’t hurt my FT% as much, so maybe I’ll be better off anyway. After all, he is Brook’s twin, right? I wouldn’t mind it if he converged to his brother’s profile.

The other guy I strongly considered was Michael Beasley, who I’m surprised to see still available. I finally decided against him, as he just doesn’t fit the profile I wanted – but that may have been a blunder.

108

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 20:45

for Mike D
9.04 D.J. Augustin, PG, Cha
Young dude number 2. And another one with lots of playing time ahead. He can score, steal, shoot the 2, and dish. Forget last year when he barely got off his dog leash. Lots of upside from this scoring point guard.

109

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 20:46

for skinneej
9.05 Michael Beasley, PF, MIN
The other three players I considered for the last pick made it back around to me, so I looked for the best value while also looking hard at a shooter like Mike Miller. Maybe would have taken a flyer on Bynum if he made the turn, but this really came down to Beasley or Landry. Frye and Miller would give lots of 3s and good shooting numbers, but they don’t contribute too much else. I expect solid seasons from both Landry and Beasley, so it was a tough choice. Beasley is similar to Odom in that he contributes a little across the board and doesn’t really hurt you in any particular cat. There’s some risk, but also a lot of upside playing in Minnesota.

110

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 20:50

for Gescom
9.06 Jamal Crawford, PG, Atl
I really needed a "good" back up point guard at this point. I was targeting DJ Augustin but he was gone 2 picks ahead of me.

So Jamal it is. Ok he's not starting but he's been puting starter-like numbers for years. He contributes everywhere apart blocks and is elite-level in threes and FT%. I just need that to continue this year.

111

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 20:51

for Toral
9.07 Channing Frye, PF, Pho
This wasn’t really in the plans here, but I was seriously debating Frye last round and he’s still here, so he’s hard to turn down. I had been interested in Turkoglu, Augustin and Crawford, but they’re gone now, and I’m not thrilled about any of the next likely group of SG/SFs.

Frye shoots 3s. He also puts up some rebounds, does throw in some blocks and even some steals, and won’t destroy your %s by any means. Problem is PT as he’ll be coming off the bench.

112

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 20:52

for Jason
9.08 J.R. Smith, SG, Den
A player from Denver again. Smith's 3-pointer potential is known, and I needed it. After the targeted PG's were gone, I concentrated on this job. I would have never chosen Smith if the Carmelo trade wasn't on the carpet. Smith is able not only to score, but to rebound and dish out the ball if he get possibility. This year he will get, I hope.

113

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 22:39

for florian
9.09 Jason Terry SG DAL
Every year Terry finishes ranked in the top 40 spots for Roto (38 last year, 19 the year before) and every year the expectation seems to be for a decline. While it's possible that could happen this year I'm willing to take that chance at the end of the 9th round. I'm just hoping he does not drop off too much. I considered Terrence Williams, Boris Diaw and Kleiza as well.

114

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Thu, Oct 21, 2010, 22:40

9.10 - Mike Miller SF/SG MIA

I need to fill some holes on my roster right now. Those holes are 3s and rebounds. The other two managers before I pick again will unlikely go with a big man, so I'll take the guard now.

Every single pick from 9.02 to 9.09 was on my short list, but I wanted Channing Frye the most. He would be able to contribute to both of my needs. But since he is gone, when I sort the remaining players by threes, then rebs ... Miller is near the top. He's not a starter, but will play a lot of quality minutes. He should also see lots of open looks at a good FG%, as opponents focus on his other teammates.

I was really hoping that Florian would not take Terry. But he did. And I also considered Anthony Morrow and Terrence Williams, but think I will get more consistency from Miller.

115

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 03:48

for goldcoach
9.11 Charlie Villanueva SF DET
130 players taken already and still some good ones on the board, why Charlie V? Honestly, I don't know... could be memories of a couple of seasons ago, plus multi-position potential between SF and PF, plus a pretty good situation in Detroit. It doesn't appear that he's going to lose too many minutes, now I'm just hoping he'll be productive.

116

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 03:49

for youngroman
9.12 Carl Landry SF SAC
he showed last year what he is able to do. he also looks good in the preseason thus far and the Kings will be without #undrafted# for the first few weeks of the season. He will start at PF until then, and possibly even after #undrafted# returns. I will ride him for the start of the season and hope for the best so I can extend that ride into 2011.

10.01 Terrence Williams SF NJN
He has a chance to start at SG, but even if he does not start he should get starter minutes. A likely threat might be if Carmelo gets traded to the Nets, but who knows if this really happens. Shortly after he was picked out of my queue I read that coach Avery Johnson referred to him as a candidate for 6th man of the year. I can only hope that he will utilize him like that.

117

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 03:50

for goldcoach
10.02 Anthony Morrow SG NJN
Reaching here, but I doubt he will make it back too me and I like his potential for 3PM in an up tempo situation. Can he get me anything other than threes and some points? I'm looking for a few assists and the occasional steal as well plus a high FT%, gotta keep that in mind with Dwight in the fold.

118

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 03:51

10.03 - Serge Ibaka C OKC

I've played fantasy basketball for a long time, but I've never had a guy from Zaire before. So now I can mark that off my list. And in full disclosure, I sat here for 15 minutes going back and forth between Ibaka and Javale McGee, almost going to a coin flip. Only when I went to kafenatid to add both to my queue did I discover that McGee had already been picked like 15 picks ago. I forgot that I even marked him off the list, and just assumed he was still there.

So as of right now, Ibaka is a backup. But he is an athletic backup. I've read four different previews of the guy, and they all say, and I quote, "raw talent". But they all also all agree that if given the minutes, his defensive contributions to my team will be solid. Potentially a double-double average, with 2.5 blocks. I'll roll the dice.

119

Toral
ID: 489121816
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 13:02

For Florian

10.04 Boris Diaw, PF, Chi
I considered Andre Miller, Kleiza and Drew Gooden for this pick. I decided to go with Diaw. I'm hoping for similar production to the last two years: 12ppg, 5 boards, 4 assists, .8 steals, .8 blocks, .8 3PTM along with a good FG%.

120

Toral
ID: 489121816
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 13:03

For jason

10.05 Linas Kleiza, SF, Tor
This was the tenth round, and I hadn't a real SF. Kleiza is the starter SF in Toronto, he will get a lot of minutes, and he is the second (or first?) scoring option in the town. He can produce in almost all categories, we saw him in the world-championship.

121

Toral
ID: 489121816
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 13:04

10.06 Andris Biedrins, C, GSW

A center was definitely not what I was looking at here. The plan was for an SG/SF type, but no less than 8 such had been taken since my previous pick. There was no such type who I’d feel bad about missing if he was taken before I next picked. After a lot of mulling over. I became interested in Biedrins. My PF/Cs are not especially strong in rebounds. He’s said to be healthy but has been up and down in preseason. I need him to be scrupulous about not drawing any fouls. One source recommended drafting him whenever you could afford to pitch him away if he doesn’t work out.

122

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 15:31

10.07 Anderson Varejao, C, CLE

This round drove me mad. I wanted Kleiza big time in that draft. I thought round 10 was more than good enough to land him safely. But at 10.05 he was gone. Ouch. Back-up plan was Biedrins that I thought was largely unoticed but is capable of being a double-double machine as he was 2 years ago. He was taken at 10.06. Ouch Ouch.
So I went Varejao, hoping he can become a double double machine himself with who you know being gone. Not a stellar preseason but I would be very disapointed if he doesn't come close to averaging a double double.

123

Mike D
ID: 218312417
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 18:23

for skinneej
10.08 Drew Gooden, PF/C, MIL
Keeping with my theme of staying big in the last few rounds, I was looking for another C eligible player so Gooden, Milicic, and Varejao were targeted. Darko would be interesting and could be a breakout year (said for the 7th straight season) but I will pass. Both Gooden and Side Show Bob have starting gigs and should have nice seasons. Gooden should get more pts while excelling at the line, while Varejao should have more steals, blks and shoot a high pct from the floor. I had not really decided, but the choice was made for me with Varejao going one pick before.

124

Mike D
ID: 218312417
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 18:24

10.09 Andre Miller, PG, Por

I had Miller cued up for a long time and hoped he’d last. He did, and provides good depth to my team in assists, steals, some points, and decent percentages. After a couple of youthful picks, Dre’ restores leadership to this squad.

125

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 18:27

10.10 Dorrell Wright, SG/SF, GSW
New team with a new head coach, and a new starting role – how’s that for uncertainty? Wright has shown flashes of fantasy relevance for brief stints in recent years, but sustaining ample playing time was always a big problem. This is the type of pick I like at this point in the draft, as Wright is a player who could put up decent stats in a bunch of cats, and produce at a level several rounds above his 10th round selection – with positional flex to boot. At age 24, I’m hoping he can finally step up to the next level.

Here’s hoping I’ve found the Wright stuff.

126

Valkyrie
Dude
ID: 47042413
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 19:28

10.11 Corey Maggette, SF, Milw

Well he only went to college for 1 year but he did get into Duke. Hopefully a source of points and a few 3's if he can stay healthy and ever get the ball out of Jennings hands. I also considered Haywood here but thought he was more likely than Maggette to make it past S R. Wrong.

127

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 19:41

for s R
10.12 Luke RIdnour, PG, Min
Another classic point guard. In the last two seasons he’s only missed 10 games, while averaging about 25 minutes per. He can hit a 3-pointer, steal over one ball, shoot near 90% from the line, and dish about 5.0 assists per game. He didn't start a game last year, so his numbers could increase if given that chance.

11.01 Brendan Haywood, C, Dal
Another classic C. At 30 years of age he is coming off of his best statistical season. Haywood isn't exactly known for his offensive prowess, he is an excellent source of rebounds and blocks. He should have a chance to increase his scoring output in Dallas' faster paced offense.

128

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 19:43

for Valkyrie
11.02 Mike Dunleavy, SF, Ind
The perenial underperformer. He scores more than .5 point a minute with a couple 3's, a couple assists and a decent shooting percentage- He has had knee problems but doesn't carry any excess weight- I have hopes of his returning to a healthy 30 PPG player- if not he is at least a Duke alum and literate. I have been targetting him for round 10 or 11 and really had no back up plan.

130

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 21:04

11.03 Jarrett Jack, PG, Tor
The PG rotation in Toronto is perhaps unsettled, but Jack may be the starter. And whether starting or not, Jack should get ample minutes to be relevant, and maybe to be much better than an 11th round pick would suggest. I’ve seen various site rankings all over the lot, from a best of 83 to 180 or higher. Although he’s currently nursing an elbow inflammation, he played through it last night and has been very durable over his 5-year NBA career, missing only six games total, and none in the past three years.

Seems like a reasonable gambit for pick #123.

131

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Fri, Oct 22, 2010, 23:08

11.04 Austin Daye, SF/PF, Det

I had Jarrett Jack in mind as best player available and Guru took him. No one jumped out at me at this pick. I realized I need a SF and I wasn’t real thrilled with the selections. To make matters worse, I was low on the clock when I finally got a chance to pick. Further, I was having some Excel difficulties and I could not access my cheat sheets or tracking info.

Eventually I checked out a few guys and had to make a decision even if it wasn’t a SF. Daye is a SF/PF who has size but can shoot the 3 ball. I’m still not sure who he reminds me of. Maybe Dirk. Maybe I’m dreaming. Either way, it was worth a shot at this point in the draft. Detroit is a bit of a mess and playing time “should” be available. There is talk of him starting, but either way, the minutes should be there. I’d love to see around 13 ppg, close to 1 steal and 1 block a game, and 1.5 threes or more a game. High 40s from the field and 80+ from the line is reachable as well.

132

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 10:52

for skinneej
11.05 George Hill, PG, SAS
After a run of bigs, it was time to look at the SG/SF spot or take another PG. After my previous pick, I had Jack, Barbosa and Dorrell Wright as my next 3 ranked players. Also considered jumping on a sleeper like Belinelli, but am hoping he makes in one more round perhaps (oops). I decided on Wright and had my rationale written up as he was my guy here…doh! Oh well on to my second choice - Jarrett Jack. Dang, I got Jack-ed by Guru too...not fair. So then on to Barbosa...but I started to feel he may be too one dimensional and I don’t really need a scorer. So I looked deeper and saw Hill hanging around just a few spots lower. Parker has missed 49 games over the past 3 years, while Ginobili has missed 53, and since he backs up both spots, there is plenty of potential for PT. Last season, Hill started 43 games and averaged 15 pts, nearly 4 assists and hit a 3 a game with almost a steal per as well. Even when he comes off the bench he should get over 25 mins per night, so I’m hoping for him to shine in his 3rd season!

133

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 10:52

for Gescom
11.06 Jose Calderon PG TOR
I needed a PG there and there wasn't much left with a decent chance of producing. Calderon will be in a time share with Jarrett Jack but is still an elite assist provider on assist / minute. And his FT percentage is incredible although he doesn't shoot much. Some threes and a few points and it will be all good.

134

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 10:53

for Toral
11.07 Leandro Barbosa SG TOR
6th man, overshadowed by hype about DeRozan during the preseason, but should play 25-30 minutes per night, has been playing well in preseason. Hampered by wrist last year, contributes a little bit of everything a guard should, good FT shooter. Could even end up starting, which would be bad for the team but good for his owners.

Had been considering Austin Daye before he was picked, considered Ben Gordon, might have been better off picking Aaron Afflalo, who went next.

135

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 10:53

for Jasonprof
11.08 Arron Afflalo SG DEN
Last year my players in 10-12 rounds were T. Evans, A. Morrow and B. Jennings. I think this is maybe the most important part of the draft, when you can get some sleepers, from whom one or two would be a star in the recent NBA season.

My previous picking was Kleiza, and now Afflalo. Before the draft I didn't think to pick up Afflalo. But his preseason performance was absolutely convincing. He strenghtens my team in threes, but if he get enough minutes in rebounds and assist too, with good percentages.

136

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 10:54

for Florian
11.09 James Harden SG OKC
I considered Delfino, Belinelli, and Dalembert for this pick in addition to Harden. I took Harden because his preseason numbers at the time were ridiculously good (15.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.8 steals) and I'm hoping he manages to get into the starting line-up. Of course Thabo Sefolosha returned for the next preseason game and Harden's line was six points on 0-for-6 shooting, five rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 24 minutes. I probably should have gone with Delfino or Belinelli.

137

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 11:29

11.10 - Marco Belinelli SG NO
For over half an hour, I went back and forth between Belinelli and Dejuan Blair. I wanted both, and was trying to decide which player could potentially slide to me again in 5 picks. Alas, Blair disappeared the next pick.

It appears that Belinelli's going to win the SG job in New Orleans. If he does, I'll have a player that could score 14-15 points per game, a couple 3s, and some some steals/assists. If he doesn't get the job, I'll probably have to say arrivederci to Marco.

138

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 13:16

for Goldcoach
11.11 Dejuan Blair, C, SAS
He has good energy and nice points and rebounds per minute ratios, with a starting gig (at least for now)this year, an older Duncan I expect more minutes and good production. His steals and blocks are okay and he doesn't hurt in the percentages, overall a good value pick.

139

youngroman
Donor
ID: 02934823
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 13:18

11.12 Darko Milicic, PF/C, MIN
a long time ago there were huge expectations about him being a future superstar. It did not happen. He played a small bench role his first few seasons. As of late he is getting a starting job but has not shown enough to get drafted higher than this. he should be a nice source of blocks and rebounds and hopefully some points. it will depend on how much playing time he really gets.

12.01 Ben Gordon, SG, DET
my biggest weakness at the moment are 3s. So I looked through the available players and Ben Gordon seemed good enough. He has some competition in Rip Hamilton, but Gordon is also used to coming off the bench and play 30 minutes a game. and that is the value you have to expect in the 12th round.

It seems that we are now nearing the point where we all start picking players not because they get playing time at the start of the season, but because of their potential. let the scrub picking begin. I wonder who is still left in 23 picks.

140

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:19

for Goldcoach
12.02 Carlos Delfino SF MIL
The draft is getting tougher now. I had Delfino last year in AAA (got him off the wire) and found that I had to keep playing him. Most nights are just adequate, but then he'll have a really good night. The nice thing about Carlos is that he give stats across the board, even on the "adequate" nights, so he's rarely a drag on the roto team. I was glad to get him this deep into the draft.

141

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:20

for Tosh
12.03 - Timofey Mozgov C NY
I know nothing about this guy. Rotowire projects him to zero stats. ESPN has nothing useful. I think I read a twitter note somewhere that he might be the starting center for the Knicks. He's a big Russian guy that can contribute good defensive numbers if he can overcome his early pre-season habit of fouling out.

142

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:29

for Florian
12.04 Samuel Dalembert C SAC
Dalembert managed a top 50 ranking last year in Philadelphia while only playing 25 minutes a game. He managed a top 100 ranking the year before while playing only 24 minutes. My hope is that he manages to get at least that many minutes in a crowded Sacramento frontcourt and manages his usual 8-10 rebounds and 2+ blocks per game.

143

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:30

for Jasonprof
12.05 Toney Douglas SG NYK
It is a question who will be the starter SG in New York. Some weeks ago W. Chandler seemed to be in, but now Douglas has a bigger chance. He is a very good shooter, from outside too, he feels better Felton's play, they are very efficient together in the court.

144

Toral
ID: 489121816
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:43

12.06 Jeff Teague, PG, Atl

I need another PG and it seems to be believed that Teague will take over as the starter over [undrafted player] at some time during the season. He’s been injured during the preseason and so is flying under the radar. If it takes too long for him to pass [undrafted player] I may have a hard time holding onto him I suppose. Could be a solid pts/assts guy, hasn’t shot well%wise.

145

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:59

for Gescom
12.07 Wilson Chandler SF NYK
I agonized several hours before making this pick. I didn't really know where to go in terms of favoring a certain type of production, not having major weakness nor strength. Finally I went Chandler who does a bit of everything. He never really built on his promising rookie season but the talent is there. He's starting and I hope he can turn his game around and contribute a bit more than last season.

146

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 16:59

for skineej
12.08 Wesley Johnson SF MIN
My 3rd Minnesota player, how did this happen? He has a good chance to play solid mins off the bench when they go small, assuming he doesn’t end up starting out of the gate. Injuries have kept him down some in the pre-season, so it’s tough to tell what he really can do yet. Not sure what to expect from this rook, but the potential for 3s, steals and blocks was worth a flier here I think. A ton of my late sleepers went since my last pick, so he probably has as much a shot as any of them...at least I hope so.

147

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 20:21

12.09 Lou Williams, PG/SG, Phi

Lou should get quality minutes off the bench in Philly. He can score, hit some threes, and grab some steals and assists. A good percentage shooter for a guard.

148

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 20:58

for Guru
12.10 Yi Jianlian, PF, WAS
Hear Yi, hear Yi! A speculative pick, no doubt. If he can get enough minutes – then he has a chance to contribute in a bunch of categories. It seems unlikely that he’ll be starting, unless injuries create openings. But I think he’ll be part of the regular rotation.

I wanted someone who can get some boards without killing my FT%, so that’s the major attraction. I’ll probably need some patience if this pick is to eventually work out.

149

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:01

for Valkyre
12.11 J.J. Redick, SG, ORL
How could I pass up J.J. when he has a chance to play 25-28 minutes a game and give me the 3's I need w/o destroying my shooting percentage? OK I admit it it's a homer college pick- especially after guru snatched Jianlin just ahead of me.

150

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:04

for sR
12.12 Jamario Moon, SF, CLE
Moon is playing for Lebron. Nobody thought he'd come close to James numbers but he is averaging just 5.2 points, 1.2 assists and 5.6 rebounds per game. Moon has upside as a starter, and if he starts, he may produce.

151

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:04

for sR
13.01 Demar DeRozan, SG, Tor
The Raptors looking to fill some of the scoring void left by the departure of Chris Bosh. He is got some holes in his game. I like how efficient he is (49.9 FG%), but he can’t shoot the three-ball, doesn’t dish the ball, and isn’t a good rebounder. Nice value here, I think.

152

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:22

for Valkyre
13.02 Greg Oden, C, Por
Time for chances- another of those young guys who if he could stay on the court could provide beaucoup blocks and rebounds. One of these years his body will mature sufficiently to be able to cope with his size.

153

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:24

for Guru
13.03 Reggie Williams, SF, GSW
Oops. I was all set to take Oden here. Oh well, back to the drawing board…

Williams had a nice per-game stat line for 24 games last year, but the sample size is small, and this is a new year. Dorell Wright has the starting role at SF, but Williams could still get ample PT if productive. Since I now have both guys, I hope at least one turns out to be productive.

154

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:24

13.04 Shawn Marion, SF/PF, Dal

Narrowed it down to Marion and Hamilton. Both veterans who can play multiple positions. I ended up with Marion who should get quality minutes off the bench. I love his FG% and he does a lot of things like steals, boards, some blocks, and double digit points. Same as he used to do when he was The Matrix, only to a much lesser extent.

155

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:25

for skinneej
13.05 Josh Childress, SF, Pho
His finger injury caused him to slip some I imagine, but the 13th round is about right for a guy with the ability to do a little of everything. Even if he has a slow start, he should get plenty of run in Phoenix, so will be hoping for a contribution from him at some point. Let’s see if the Euro game has added to his abilities to play in an uptempo offense.

156

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:26

for Gescom
13.06 Jason Thompson, PF/C, Sac
Promising big man. Ok Sacramento frontcourt will be crowded this year. But until Dalembert returns and Cousins learns how to stay out of foul trouble, he should have nice PT and contributes significantly. I expect plenty points and rebounds in the first two months of the season. Come January, it will be time to reevaluate.

157

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:28

for Toral
13.07 Richard Jefferson, SF, SA
Low risk option but low reward too? Spent the summer working hard at fundamentals, and some think that he might improve considerably in his second year in the Spurs’ system. If you put together a line of his best stats from among last 3 years with 3 different teams you have a quite decent player.

158

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:28

for Jason
13.08 Mehmet Okur, C, Utah
Okur is one of my favourite fantasy player, but the first unit is changing in the Jazz this year. Okur will be the backup center behind Jefferson, when he is healthy again (one or two month?).

I realized in this round that Okur is a free agent yet, and because of the two IR slots, I decided to choose him. I hope when he is back, he gets 25-30 minutes off the bench, and this is enough to produce well, one threepointer, five rebounds, two assists, one steal and block. In this case it is worth picking up him in 13th round an waiting for him a bit.

159

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:29

for Florian
13.09 Travis Outlaw, SF, NJ
New Jersey signed Outlaw as a free agent in the offseason. He is expected to start at small forward. His numbers in 32 career starts are 12.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.0 3-pointers, 0.9 steals and 0.7 blocks. If he manages to put up similar numbers this year I'll be very happy. Apart from Outlaw not producing as well as expected the concerns are Terrence Williams looming on the bench and a possible trade for Carmelo.

160

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:30

for Tosh
13.10 Jonny Flynn, PG, Min
Maybe I will luck out and get a starting PG sometime mid-December when Flynn returns from injury. He had an erratic rookie season last year, but as part of a rebuilding Minnesota team, I hope to get 32-35 minutes per game.

161

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:31

for Goldcoach
13.11 Ron Artest, SF, LAL
A defensive specialist who can have the occasional good offensive game. I hope to get some steals,blocks and a few boards from this pick. I'm not expecting much in the way of offensive stats, just please don't hurt me too much. I hope he's maturing and can last the year without a suspension. Maybe getting that ring will help.

162

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:31

for youngroman
13.12 Richard Hamilton, SG/SF, Det
Rip is getting older and older. he may start but Ben Gordon will eat into his minutes. I will not wait too long if he is not worth it. I guess he is the first man off my roster when the 1st hot pickup is due.

163

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:32

for youngroman
14.01 Daniel Gibson, SG, Cle
lots if potential here. as said before, with LeBron gone there are a lot of stats to get for the Cavs. we haven't seen all the Cavs starters in the preseason and how their time and stat sharing will be. I believe that Gibson has the skills to earn more playing time.

164

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:33

for Goldcoach
14.02 Ramon Sessions, PG, Cle
Wow! I think this may be the steal of the draft on my roster. He's been playing starter minutes in preseason and it looks like that's going to continue at least into the near future. He scores and gets fouled which helps as he does well from the line. He may have SG status before long as he has been starting there, which will be another plus to an already talented and young player.

165

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:33

for Tosh
14.03 Kirk Hinrich, PG/SG, Was
Believe it or not, at the age of 29 ... Hinrich is the oldest player on my roster. Just another guy that you get in round 14. If he gets a starting SF gig in Washington (which would also give him more positional flexibility), I should have a rosterable player. If he comes off the bench ... see ya' later old man.

166

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:34

for Florian
14.04 Rodrigue Beaubois, SG, Dal
Rodrigue showed his potential when given the chance last year. This was supposed to be his year to start at SG, but he is still in a walking boot. Hopefully he recovers soon and manages to put up decent numbers in ppg, 3PTM and steals. He can spent time on my injury reserve for now.

167

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:35

for Jason
14.05 Josh McRoberts, PF, Ind
By this period of the draft I had enough players for PF and C positions but I thought McRoberts could have a good year, when he is a starter in Indiana, at least at the beginning of the year. I know he will some problems with the fouls, and there is a strong competitor with Hansbrough in the board, but McRoberts's per/minutes production is very impressive. If he get enough minutes he will good at rebounds, steals an blocks with a good FT% an some threes. The only problem is with the shooting from the line.

168

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:36

for Toral
14.06 Shelden Williams, PF, Den
Got back to me fast this round and as I tried to put some names together and saw that planned pick Beaubois was gone. Looking around I thought I had a nice 14th round gem in Josh McRoberts. Went to queue him up and found that I was up and McRoberts was gone, taken by Jason. Williams is starting until Kenyon Martin returns and was a PF on the tattered remnants of my lists and notes. If I had stopped to think a bit longer I would have taken Hawes, who was at the top of my round 15 sleeper list. Should have taken him here.

169

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:42

for Gescom
14.07 Rudy Fernandez, SG, Por
It seems I can't do a draft without picking Rudy at some point. Certainly some emotional affect to a guy who is an incredible shooter. He's unhappy and Portland backcourt is crowded but he had a nice preseason and can convert himself into an fantastic point and threes producer any minute should there is injury in front of him or a bit more trust from the coach. Definitely a sleeper.

170

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:42

for skinneej
14.08 James Jones, SF, Mia
Strictly a pickup for a cheap source of 3s filling in for the injured Mike Miller in Miami. Somebody has to stand in the corner and shoot 5-6 bombs a night when the big 3 pass!

171

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:45

14.09 Spencer Hawes, C, Phi

I like Hawes for blocks, boards, and some points. He was getting good press from the Philly camp early on and then sat out the last couple of days and may have been forgotten about in drafts. He’s supposed to be ready for opening night. It seems like they want him to play decent minutes since he’s basically their only center.

172

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:45

for Guru
14.10 Thaddeus Young, SF/PF, Phi
You’d think that by the time we got to round 14, the picks would be less predictable. But my short list has gotten obliterated. Sessions, Outlaw, Gibson, Childress, McRoberts, … and then Hawes.

I’ve been scouring various sites for thoughts on sleepers – and Young appeared somewhere. A couple of sites have him listed as a starter – although I think that’s speculative. Age 22, with potential for steals, points, and treys. We’ll see.

173

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:47

for Valkyre
14.11 Jermaine O'Neal, C, Bos

The guy is only 32- He averaged 13 PPG, 7 boards and 1.5 blocks the last 3 years. With all the Bost injuries he'll get as many minutes as he can handle and when Perkins comes back I'll just send him to the bench or waivers- Good Nov-Jan pick up.

174

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:51

for sR
14.12 Will Bynum, SG, Det
In my opinion, Bynum is Detroit's best point guard. He will be backup for the Pistons during the regular season behind Rodney Stuckey. Should anything happen to Stuckey, Bynum may push for big minutes.

175

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:52

for sR
15.01 Joel Anthony, C, Mia
The starting center in Miami. He will have to do most of the dirty work while the superstars around him do the scoring. Obviously Anthony will be a last resort on offense, but he'll still get at least three or four dunks a night. In addition, he'll grab some rebounds and block plenty of shots. Exactly what I need.

176

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:54

for Valkyre
15.02 Josh Howard, SG/SF, Was

Howard is 30 and until his knee injury last year and trade to Wash was a true statstuffer at SF for a number of years. Hoping he can return to form sometime in late December. If not he is 15th round pick #170.

177

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:55

for Guru
15.03 Brandon Bass, SF, Orl
Has had a good preseason, and although not starting, will be in the regular rotation. If he continues with his preseason output, then he may work his way into my lineup. If not, he may be the first guy dumped.

I might have taken Haslem here if I had realized he was still available. For some reason, I had though he was taken several rounds ago. I guess that was a different draft I was remembering.

178

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:57

15.04 Udonis Haslem, PF/C, Mia

Still a few guys I liked here, and this is my last pick. Haslem ended up my choice because he is the first big man off the bench in Miami and when Joel Anthony plays in front of you, you play decent minutes.

A terrific rebounder who shoots a high FG%. He may get close to 10 ppg, but regardless, is a steady player who is hard to get out of the game because he adds so much “real” value to his team.

179

Mike D
ID: 489522120
Sat, Oct 23, 2010, 21:58

for skinneej
15.05 Ty Lawson, PG, Den
Can you say Billups insurance? For many other teams he could start and put up great numbers, but here’s hoping Billups stays healthy as well as the rest of my team. Besides, I now have two guys named Ty on my team!

180

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 20:30

for Gescom
15.06 Nedad Krstic, PF/C, OKC

The sleeper of the century. But he's starting and should present a decent amount of rebounds and blocks. May be the first player to cut should there is a waiver fire drill.

181

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 20:31

for Toral
15.07 Donte’ Greene, SG/SF, Sac

Loaded up my queue with various last-round oddities, and Greene must have been on top. Just your average 6’11’ SG/SF who combines blocks and 3s, Greene has been named starting SF and might have some fun in the new up-tempo offense. I confess I don’t know what kind of stat line to expect from him as a full-time player in such a situation.

182

Mike D
ID: 549362418
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 23:23

for Jason
15.08 Marvin Williams, PF, ATL
My team had a lack of small forwards, the only two are Kleiza and J.R.Smith. I had to strenghten in this position with somebody, who is a starter with sufficent presence on the court. Last year he played 30 minutes per game, I would be satisfied with it this year too. It was very important for me his block potential and his very good (above 80%) FT%.

183

Mike D
ID: 549362418
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 23:24

for Florian
15.09 Tayshaun Prince, SF, Det
Prince's numbers are similar year after year: 13-14 ppg, 5 boards, 3 assist, decent FG%, .5 steals/blocks/3PTM. Hopefully he manages to put up similar numbers this year.

184

Mike D
ID: 549362418
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 23:25

for Tosh
15.10 - Ersan Ilyasova, PF/SF, Mil
I have narrowed it down to three guys that I think will be useful. Hopefully I can get one now, and another as a injury-replacement waiver claim in a couple days. I think Ilyasova is the most likely to get picked in the final two picks, so I'll take him now. I really don't know much about this guy, but he's playing a lot of minutes in the preseason, and will assist in the big man categories that I'm a little concerned about.

185

Mike D
ID: 549362418
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 23:26

for Goldcoach
15.11 Chase Budinger, SG, Hou
Three Points...Three Points...Three Points.....

186

Mike D
ID: 549362418
Sun, Oct 24, 2010, 23:27

for youngroman
15.12 Marcus Thornton, SG, NO
I don't know why he got no love in RIHC. he went much earlier in all other leagues. if the reason is simply that his defense is not good enough to get reasonable minutes, then so be it. but there will be stretches where defense will not be necessary and that can be his time. and at some point even Thornton should be able to play some defense.

Forum: hoopPage 13556Subject: RIHC 2010-11: Draft Rationales

Forum: hoop
Page 13556
Subject: RIHC 2010-11: Draft Rationales