Self Editor

Forum: hoop
Page 13619
Subject: RIHC 2011-12: Draft Rationales

Posted by: Guru - [330592710] Thu, Dec 15, 2011, 17:58

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
for 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.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 08:54

for Da Bomb

1.01 Kevin Durant SF Okl
I "won" the draft squared lottery and opted to go with the first pick. I usually like building my team around the best player in the draft when given a chance.

For what it's worth, Durant has been the #1 ranked player in Yahoo the past 2 years, but that may be because LeBron turns the ball over more than Durant and turnovers are in Yahoo's default setting. Regardless, the difference maker between the 2 for me was that Durant is a huge positive in FT% while LeBron is a negative.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 08:55

1.02 Lebron James SF Mia

Given the opportinity to opt for the 2nd pick in the draft, I jumped at it. The chance for either Lebron or Durant was to tempting to pass on.

Other than a general disdain for Lebron, and what he did in forcing his way out of Cleveland, the man is a beast, both in fantasy and real life. What's not to like about 27 ppg, 7 assists, 7 boards, over 1.5 steals and a little under1 block per game.

Let's not forget, he's only 26 ( it seems he's been on the scene for a long time ). Although his numbers took a slight dip last season after combining with Wade and Bosh, you can bet thers's something to prove in Lebron's world after last years dismal end to the season for the Heat. Bring it on, Lebron

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 09:51

for Florian
1.03 Chris Paul, PG, LAC
I expected Durant and LeBron would be the top 2 picks. I chose to pick third overall in the hopes that Paul would get traded, start to care about winning again and put up stats like he did 2-3 years ago when he was clearly the number 1 player in fantasy hoops. When he got traded to the Lakers I was very excited. Not only would he be in a good situation, he was was now playing on my favourite team. Several hours later Stern vetoed that trade in a move that completely stained the credibility of the NBA. I still haven't gotten over it. The thought of Paul being stuck in New Orleans actually made me think about taking Wade or Rose with the third pick instead, but he got traded to the Clippers just before I had to make this pick. So I took Paul. He should put up excellent numbers playing with Blake Griffin. It will even be fun basketball to watch. But I'm still upset about how Paul got to the Clippers and now think of David Stern as another Donald Sterling. That someone like that is running my favourite professional sports league disgusts me.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 09:52

for Deejay
1.04 Kevin Love, C, Min
Well I always tend to pick a big (preferably a C) in the 1st round. This year is no different.

Love is no Block Wonder, but hey he can shoot the 3. I think he's gonna be huge under Adelman this year. I was also considering Derrick Rose with this pick, but opted for Love.

Jaydog
ID: 472331610
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 09:57

1.05 Derrick Rose, PG, Chi

I opted for the 5th pick with my selection. I toyed around with picking towards the back of the draft, but the chance at a top 5 player was too strong to pass up.

With the 5th pick, I was debating between Rose and Howard. Both elite players at scarce positions, and both offering above average stats in several categories. I settled on Rose due to his consistency across all categories, and no category that will kill me (i.e. Howard's FT %). Howard certainly is more above average in boards and blocks than Rose is in points and assists, but Rose's consistency and upside lured me in.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 10:34

for reeb
6th pick: I had it in my head to go for the Dwight/Rondo combo once I knew I wouldn't be getting a top 2 pick. I toyed with the idea of going lower but at the end of the day I played it safe. Good thing too because reading some other managers thoughts I would have been back to the drawing board.

1.06 Dwight Howard, C, Orl
Howard gives me elite stats in 3 cats while scoring the ball well to. If he can get me a steal a game I will be ecstatic.

His biggest plus is he has only missed 7 games in his career. He is a rock compared to most NBA players.

There is some uncertainty about where he will play ball this year but he will be a beast wherever he goes. I could see him scoring a bit less depending on the situation but his boards/blocks should be there.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 10:35

for Swinganamiss

1.07 Dwayne Wade, SG, Mia
I chose the earliest available slot at #7. Didn't look much into drafting tendencies of the people in this league. I was expecting Howard to be available here, but wasn't planning to take him. I expected Westbrook or Williams or even Love to be the pick here.

I was pleasantly surprised to see DWade. This is the third straight year I've had him in RIHC. I believe I've taken him 3rd, 11th, and now 7th. Last year people were scared away with Lebron in town, but he still delivered. He gives me a well-balanced start, allowing me to go in any direction from here.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 10:38

1.08 Russell Westbrook, PG, OkC

I was assigned 10th position picking draft slots. Mostly they were being picked from the top down. I saw 3 groups of 2 players at the top, 2 or 3 of whom were possibly intended for new situations, plus Dwight Howard who could go anywhere from 1st to 10th . Hoops is supposedly the sport where picking higher has the greatest advantage, despite the past results in RIHC, so, not quite being sure what to make of the next tier of players, I opted for the highest position available, which turned out to be 8th. I thot that at 8th there was a chance I might get to try the Dwight Howard experience.

8th position worked out as badly as it could in the first round. There turned out to be 6 premier players plus Howard who was gone by my pick, followed by an amorphous mass of talent. The most attractive of there were a knot of point guards of similar value. Westbrook is only 23, and might have the energy to handle the compressed schedule. He's going in the right decision, improving last year in points, FG%, FT%, 3's, assts, and blocks. Westbrook has supposedly been working hard with a shot trainer on form and selection, which sounds hopeful at least.

I had Curry (1.10) last year, so I'll opt for someone else for variety, and forego the ankle problems. Deron Williams (1.09) is the third in the same knot of point guards. As of drafting time the Nets hadn't acquired any of the stars they were shooting for, so there's just a smidgeon of uncertainty there.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 10:48

9th pick
I did some research correlating draft pick sequence with RIHC finishes, and discovered that, over 8 seasons, the pick with the best results has been #9. The team picking #9 has won twice and finished in the top four 5 times, which is twice more than any other pick. Interestingly, the worst positions to draft from have been #1 and #12, neither of which have ever finished in the top 3, and only once each finishing as high as 4th.

1.09 Deron Williams, PG, NJ
I prefer to get a PG and a big in the first two rounds. I anticipated that there would be multiple viable candidates at center sliding to me in round 2, so I concentrated my focus on point guards. In my pre-draft planning, I targeted Deron Williams. Backup options were Curry and Westbrook. Westbrook was just taken, but Curry is still available.

I’ve reviewed a number of preseason rankings. Some have Curry ranked above Williams, some have Deron higher. I’ve had both on my RIHC team in past seasons. Either would have been OK, but I went with Deron based on an assumption of higher assists.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:33

for Skinneej
1.10 Stephen Curry, PG, GSW
I had the 11th draft slot selection, so only had 10th or 11th to choose from since 12th was already taken. The idea of taking 11th and picking twice with only 2 picks in between was tempting, but I settled on 10th based on the players that I thought would be available. In round 1, I wanted an elite PG and based on most projections figured the choice would be Westbrook or Deron.

I had Curry ranked 7th with Deron at 9 and Westbrook at 10. I had warmed up to probably getting Westbrook with the 10th pick, so was delighted Curry was available. I do worry about his size and fragility holding up especially in a condensed season, but the upside is huge if he plays in most or all his team's games. I'm getting an exciting player who should put up big numbers in 3's, steals and FT% and contribute nicely in Pts and assists, while shooting an above avg FG% for a PG.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:34

for Gescom
1.11 Monta Ellis, SG, GSW
With the 11th pick, which was the only one left, i was hoping that one of Curry / Williams / Westbrook would make it to me. Of course they were all picked up by the 3 previous managers, wich has been heartbreaking.
I went with Ellis with the following rationale:
- He provided 11th best value on ESPN rater last year
- His "teamate" attitude seems to have continue to improve which should cause better FG% and assists.
- I like his unique ability to be a strong contributor in multiple categories. He was so good for my team last year and the main reason i survived my rookie season in RIHC.
- For various reasons, I was not liking the other possible first round options, Gasol and Stoudemire. I briefly considered Griffin but thought he would probably be still available at 2.02 while Monta might not. So I went quite hapilly with Monta, targeting Griffin at 2.02.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:35

for Great One
Last Pick, First Round
I chose to go back to back purely cause I'm lazy and like to make picks as the same time. :) I am also looking
to break the trend of those going in this spot never winning this thing. It will probably cause me to miss out on some things
when there are runs on particular positions, but those are the breaks. But really, once I missed out on the top couple spots, I didn't see a whole lot of difference in the guys 4-15, so I was good with getting 2 of them.

1.12 Paul Gasol, PF/C, LAL
2.01 Amare Stoudemire, PF/C, NYK
My draft history tends to indicate that I like big guys early in NBA leagues. I'm not sure why. I guess I like to build from the
inside out. I feel these are two guys in their prime on good offenses, great %'s and plenty of productivity across the board.
Of course its a long wait til I go again, so its gonna be a scramble to find some guard help.

There were some back and forth trade discussions to move up the first pick to the top half of the round, but nothing really panned out that would help us both.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:35

for Gescom
2.02 Blake Griffin, PF, LAC
I can hear the thoughts from here. Gescom is nuts, this is way too expensive at 2.02. And you know what, this may be right.
But the thing is i couldn't resist. He can only improve from his fantastic rookie season, he has now an elite PG able to feed him, he's already a superstar who gets favorable ref calls, the Clippers are clearly contenders in the West which should lead to more wins and better numbers for their star players and I truly think this is the last year he's picked up in round 2.
Given he would have never ever made it back to me at 3.11, i targeted him in round 2 as soon as i knew my pick number.
If he can slightly improve his block and steal capacities, given i'm confident he will improve everything else, i think he will be a steal even at 2.02.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:36

for Skinneej
2.03 Al Jefferson, C, Uta
Based on my draft slot, I always try to project players that will fit well with my first 3-4 picks and give my team a solid foundation. I wanted an elite PG in round 1, and then pair them with a top C in round 2. Hoped for Gasol or Amare to land here, but after taking Curry in round 1, Jefferson was the better fit with him. Horford was a strong consideration and I'm very familiar with him having him the last two years in RIHC, but Jefferson had the slight edge this time around. Dirk was another player I looked at and felt bad passing him over since he probably still ends up in the top 15 at the end of the season.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:36

2.04 Al Horford, C, Atl
I was hoping to land Jefferson here, but I’m content to settle for Horford. One site has him pegged as a career year candidate, and at age 25, he should be primed. Not a prodigious shot blocker, but should average more than one per game. Decent assists for a big man, monster FG% (55.7% last year), and a good FT shooter at around 80%. Nothing spectacular here, but should be a very dependable stat filler.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 16:38

2.05 Carmelo Anthony, SG, NYK

Melo's per/36 stats were surprisingly close to those of the top 2 forwards in this draft , more so than you might think. The sore elbow should be healed and he should be fully adjusted to the system in New York. Over the last 2 months of the last season, he was 6th in value by some calcs, He's last man standing in his own tier at small forward,if you want to look at it that way,and I do.

Would have considered Blake Griffin (2.02) if he had still been there.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 18:11

for Swinganamiss
2.06 Josh Smith, PF, Atl
My debate in this spot was between Smith and Dirk. I liked Smith for his better projections across several of the categories. I may tend to overlook percentages when making picks. Anyway, he's reportedly in good shape and can hopefully take a step forward this year for the Hawks. Maybe reached a bit, but didn't really want Dirk and I did give Aldridge some thought, but was scared off a bit by his "condition".

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 18:12

for reeb
2.07 Rajon Rondo, PG, Bos
What can I say, he's my favorite player and I wanted him on my team. He fits perfectly with Dwight giving me a great base in 5 cats while helping insure that I forget ft% exists. I still think he has upside scoring as he continues to make the Celtics his team.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 18:13

for Jaydog
2.08 Lamarcus Aldridge, PF, POR
After going with Rose in the first round, I was set on drafting a big man with this pick. Although Aldridge is more of a traditional PF, he is also C eligible which boosts his value. Aldridge is a stat stuffer across the board. A 20/10 average along with over a block and steal per game is exactly the type of consistency I love in a big. All while putting up good percentage stats. There are a ton of minutes to be had in the Blazers front court and with Brandon Roy out of the picture, he should have plenty of offensive opportunities.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 18:14

for Deejay
2.09 Dirk Nowitzki, PF, DAL
To be honest I didnt think he would been there at that point, I originally had a PG penciled in with this pick, but couldn't pass on Dirk.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 18:14

for Florian
2.10 Rudy Gay, SF, MEM
This pick came down to whether I wanted Gay or Kobe. I picked Gay because he has possible upside whereas Kobe is likely on the downside of his career. Gay was providing top 10 value before he went down with his shoulder injury last year. Hopefully he can provide a similar level of production this year. And hopefully the injury was a fluke as he has never missed more than 4 games in any previous season.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 19:37

2.11 John Wall PG Was

Although Lebron gave me a leg up on so many cats, I really wanted a PG here. So many had gone off the board already, and I was hoping Rondo would fall to me, but I forgot the ultimate Rondo fan, Reeb had to select before my turn. I briefly considered going in another direction, but in the end I decided to take the plunge with Wall.

I had Wall last year, and in the end felt I reached for him in round 4. Hopefully at the end of the year I can be satisfied he return late 2nd round value. Injuries contributed to an up and down year, hopefully he's beyond that and doesn't earn a injury prone label. Wall can score ( 16ppg game last year ) , he just isn't a good shooter. Maybe he can improve there. He can dish ( 8.3 last year ), he's a thief ( nearly 2 per ), and even grabbed 5 RB's per last year. He probably would have been ROY if not for Blake's monster season.

So improvement in all cats is expected, and if so, I think I have a great pick here

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 20:05

for Da Bomb
2.12 Kobe Bryant, SG, LAL
I started salivating when Dirk kept falling but he finally got taken at 2.07. Kobe's not a bad option though and he can still stuff the stat sheet as his numbers last year were very near his career averages and he played in all 82 games. Now I see he has a torn lunotriquetral ligament which even rotoworld has never heard of. Still undetermined if he will miss any time but I sure hope he won't!

3.01 Danny Granger, PF, IND
Saw Granger here and thought he was the best available and pulled the trigger. Wondering if he may have already peaked though as his scoring steadily increased his first 4 years in the league before dropping the past 2.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 20:06

for Dave R
3.02 Brook Lopez C NJN
Who knows where Brook will end up, but knowing how my Nets can screw up anything, my bet it's in a Nets uniform, with DH12 going in another direction.. Brook took a major step backward last year in his rebounding, regressing to 6 per game after averaging over 8 in his first two seasons. He needs to improve there, you would think more than that would just fall his way, being 7 ft tall. Other than that he's rock solid, good %'s, particularly FT% for a big man. he can score ( 20 ppg ) and block shots ( 1.5 per ).

Maybe it's me but I saw a major improvement in his play, after the addition of Deron during last years season. Great point guards have that effect, let's hope it carries over.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:37

for Florian
3.03 Eric Gordon, SG, NOR
When the Hornets traded Chris Paul to the Clippers the main player they were asking for in return was Eric Gordon. He is young. He was having an excellent year prior to getting hurt. And he should get as many shots as he can handle in New Orleans, which will hopefully lead to 25 ppg and at least 2 3PTM per game with reasonable percentages and 3-4 rebounds and assists per game.

The other players I was considering with this pick were Steve Nash (but I already had a PG), Gerald Wallace, Paul Pierce and Manu Ginobili.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:37

for Deejay
3.04 Steve Nash, PG, PHO
For this pick I really wanted a PG. Had 3 names Nash/Wall/JR Holiday. I had an awful lot of trouble putting them in order though. Ended up with leaving 1. Nash 2. Holiday 3.Wall, in that order in my queue.

I know Nash is getting old and might sit here and there, but was kind of hoping JR fell to me in the next round, but no luck. Wall went 2 picks before it was my turn...

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:38

for Jaydog
3.05 Tyreke Evans, PG, Sac
After going fairly safe with my first two picks, I decided on a bit of an upside pick here with Evans. His stats were down a bit last year, but he also played hurt. Despite his injury, he still put up great numbers getting 5 boards, 6 assists, 1.5 steals, and even .5 blocks from a guard. There are talks that he has worked hard at improving his 3 point shooting which would be icing on the cake. Hopefully healthy, he can get his ppg average back to where it was in 2009 and give me solid contributions across the board.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:38

for reeb
3.06 Andre Iguodala, SG, PHI
In hindsight I hate this pick already. I liked his SG/SF eligibility while giving me some 3's and great assists at either of those positions. I don't know whether to hope for a trade or hope he bounces back a bit from his slight off year.

Was really hoping Gordon fell to me here. Once that didn't happen I debated between Iggy and Jrue and feel like I made the wrong choice already.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:39

for Swinganamiss
3.07 Zach Randolph, PF, MEM
I had Z-Bo last year and he was dynamite for me in boards and points especially. Not stellar in other categories, but hopefully provides enough to warrant the position. As others had mentioned, I was hopeful to get Gordon here. Even Nash was on my short list. By my turn my choice was Z-Bo or Kevin Martin, and I wanted a bigger big since I only had Josh Smith at that point.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:39

for Toral
3.08 Javale McGee, C, WAS
If I could pick for myself one stat for McGee this year it would be mpg. Last year moving up to 28 he increased 5 ppg and turned it up a notch in rebounds and blocks. He should be on the court more this year, be a double-double guy, and carry me in blocks. His FT% regressed las tyear and I need it to come back. Even for a big, he doesn't produce much in steals and assists. Flip Sauders says ""He's had a lot of assists. He's had more assists in two days that he had all of last year combined." I hope he means that in a good way.

McGee is playing for money this year, either through an extension or as an FA and I'm hoping thatbrings some of the maturity people question in him.

I kept thinking of taking Jrue (3.11), who was so good for me last year, here, but balked. Paul Pierce (4.01) was another possibility.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 16, 2011, 22:40

3.09 Kevin Martin, SG, Hou
Wow, I never expected Kevin Martin to be available here. He’s pretty consistently ranked as a late-2nd rounder. Maybe others are afraid of his fragility with a compact schedule? He did play 80 games last year, although that was admittedly the outlier, hitting that mark only one other time in his 7-year career.

Last season, he was the only player to rank in the top 10 in scoring, treys, FT attempts, and FT%. He’s already been traded once this preseason (as part of the Chris Paul=>Lakers deal), and his name is still be bandied around in trade talks. But since I’m getting almost a full round discount, I think there’s good value here.

Jrue Holiday was actually the guy I was targeting here, and I still almost took him – but decided that Martin offered too much value to pass up.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 08:03

for Skinneej
3.10 Gerarld Wallace, PF, Por
I had secretly hoped Kevin Martin would make it to me in round 3. Took him in round 6 last year, but no dice this time around as Guru swept him up one pick before. Crash is a nice consolation as he contributes nicely in all categories, and very few players give you 3s, steals and blocks while not hurting your shooting pcts. Didn't really consider anyone else as I hit the draft button the second I saw Martin was gone!

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 08:13

3.11 Jrue Holiday, PG, Phi
I was targeting Zach Randolph with this pick but he was gone 4 slots before mine.

Zach gone, Jrue became evident choice. I like everything with him: he has already established himself as an elite passer and thief, but also contributes in 3s, pts and FT%. His major improvement in his second season, his constant speech about "becoming all-star", the trust of his coach, all this pave the way for a breakout season. Jrue is a pick i like, which i can't say about all my picks.

Great One
ID: 1611441519
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 10:42

3.12 Ty Lawson
Really was hoping on Jrue here as it approached but Lawson is a good consolation prize. I have Jrue in G20 anyway, so good to diversify. Then traded down my next pick cause I wasn't in love with anybody in this spot. Pretty risky to take an unproven PG as my first G pick, so we'll see how it works out. I'm not here to finish 4th and play it conservative, I roll the dice... as we all know.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 10:52

for Florian (via trade)
4.01 Paul Pierce, SF, Bos
It was getting to the end of the 3rd round and to my surprise most of the players I was considering earlier in the 3rd round were still available. So I attempted to trade up. Looking back at the last few years, my early and late round picks have turned out quite well. My middle round picks have not. So I managed to trade my 6th and 8th round pick for an early 4th round pick (and a 15th round pick).

Paul Pierce has produced consistent numbers for many years. His overall numbers have decreased a bit the last few years, but his percentages have improved to compensate. He has been fairly durable and hopefully that continues.

I considered Millsap and Ginobili for this pick as well.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 11:39

for Gescom
4.02 Joakim Noah, C, Chi
I wanted a C and my short list was Noah and Ibaka. I finally went with Noah, solid defender with elite- level rebounds and blocks, good FG% and decent FT%. Of course he will never average 20 pts/game but there's a bit of upside there. I would have been happy with Ibaka too for this pick.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 11:40

for Skinneej
4.03 David Lee, PF, GSW
Would have preferred a guard here, but there were so many solid big men available that I couldn't pass them up. My list after the Wallace pick was Noah, Bosh, Holiday then Lee. Holiday was taken, so that left me going big again, then Noah was gone so it was Lee or Bosh. Went back and forth considering the pros and cons of each.

Lee had a somewhat down year due to a new offense and the injury, but still put up respectable numbers. Bosh found out it's tough being the 3rd wheel with two superstars, but still presents 4th round value as a big man that doesn't hurt your team badly anywhere and may even be tossing up more 3s this year. However, Lee seems to present the bigger upside as Love did when I took him in round 4 last year. He could end up in the top 20 if he comes close to his last year with NY, whereas Bosh seems to have a ceiling in his current role. Also didn't think it was time to reach a little going after last year's breakout players like Ibaka or Wright (I really wanted them to last another round and fall to me.)

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 11:41

4.04 Serge Ibaka, PF/C, OKC
My short list was Millsap and Ibaka. Millsap has better breadth opf stats, Ibaka is probably the top shot blocker – but with solid rebounding and a respectable FT% (75% last year). I decided to take Ibaka based on the uniqueness of his blocks, and the fact that I can get them without a hit to my free throw percentage.

Ibaka is only 22 and blossomed last year, particularly in the second half, when he averaged 10.8 pts, 8.8 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Maybe I took him a tad early at pick #40, but shot blockers are always at a premium, and I was pretty sure he would not have lasted for 17 more picks. This should also give me more flexibility later on, as I already have about 50% of my targeted blocks nailed down – barring injuries.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 12:50

4.05 Chris Bosh, PF/C, Mia

Reports are that Bosh has bulked up and is going to be less of a perimeter player than last year. But then there's also a report that he's been working on his 3-point shot and is going to start draining treys so who knows what to believe. Even as a third wheel on his new team, he should put together a solid stat line that is no worse than last year's.

Also considered here: Paul Millsap (4.10), Manu Ginobili (5.05).

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 13:52

for Swinganamiss
4.06 Kyle Lowry, PG, Hou
This team is really beginning to resemble my team from last year. I picked up Lowry (I think as a FA) last year when the starting PG went down and he, along with Nash, led me to run away with assists. I'm paying a fairly hefty price this time around with a 4th rounder, but should be worth it as there's not much else in town. Lowry is my first true PG, so I will have some catching up to do in assists this year.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 13:53

for reeb
4.07 Dorell Wright, SF, GSW
I was looking for 3's with this pick and had Lowry first in my queue. Sure enough, Swing grabbed him.

Wright had a career year last season and even though I think his numbers will regress some I still think he fits my team's needs well. As long as I get 2 threes a game from him I'll be happy with this pick.

jaydog
ID: 3411591712
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 13:59

4.08 Marc Gasol, C, MEM

The poor mans Gasol!!

I was looking for blocks with this pick since my first center (Aldridge) doesn't get many, and my other two picks were point guards. While blocks always interest me, I didn't want to sacrifice FT%. I was really hoping that Ibaka fell to be here, but when he was taken Gasol was 2nd on my list. Certainly not a flashy player, but is solid across the board at all categories including the percentage stats. Don't expect a lot of upside with Gasol, but as long as he gives me what he's given over the past few seasons, I'll be very happy.

deejay
Sustainer
ID: 501182710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 14:10

4.09 Joe Johnson, SG/SF, Atl

I had to start thinking about 3 pt'ers,
Johnson looked like good value here.
Looked at Ginobili here, but thought he could fall to me in the next round, I forgot Dave knows how to read my mind though ;)

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 17:27

for Florian
4.10 Paul Millsap, PF Uta
I considered Millsap and Ginobili for this pick. I picked Millsap because I needed a PF (and a center). I actually feel Ginobili was a better value here. Millsap provides a huge boost in FG%, rebounds well and gets more than a steal and about a block per game. I figured I could get a center with the next pick as I would have been happy with any of 4 different centers and it was highly unlikely those 4 would go with the next four picks.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sat, Dec 17, 2011, 18:49

4.11 Martin Gortat C Pho

I was thinking of a guard, who could get me some 3's here, like Manu, but in looking over the draft, Da Bomb with the 2 picks before I choose again was without a C, I gambled my choice would be available after the turn. I decided to grab another center. I was all set to grab Nene, but decided Gortat maybe had a little more upside.

In the last third of the season, Martin averaged over 15 ppg, 10.6 boards, 1.5 blocks and chipped in with a half steal, while shooting 56% form the floor. That's comparable to Al Horford, taken in the middle of round 2. Gortat also won't kill you with FT%, like alot of big guys, shooting 75%

I think there is huge upside here. Gortat plays in a perfect situation, with the master of the pick and roll, Steve Nash. I love Rotowire's assessment :

Gortat is a relentless rebounder with a skilled offensive game now finally getting the minutes he deserves. He's in a fantastic situation with the Suns and could easily emerge as one of the most valuable fantasy centers in 2011-2012

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 08:36

For Da Bomb

4.12 Andrew Bogut C MIL
Wanted to choose a center on this turn before the pickings got slim. Performs the 2 most prominent big man stats very well as he averaged 11 boards and 2.6 blocks per game last year. Of course, the knock on him is that he is quite injury prone. Giving me hope though is that his elbow is reportedly in great shape. Being in the best shape of a career seems to be the story with a lot of players you read about now but it is hard to remember reading about the last time Bogut was healthy so it is extra encouraging.
5.01 Raymond Felton PG Por
Also wanted a PG on this turn. Felton was having a breakout year when playing for the uptempo Knicks averaging 17 and 9 before his trade to the Nuggets and having to share the court with Ty Lawson. Now on the Trailblazers, Felton has the PG job all to himself again for a team that also wants to run.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 08:41

5.02 Manu Ginobli SG SAS

Time to address the "little guys" stats. Manu in round 5? Seems like just yesterday we were picking him 2, maybe even 3 rounds earlier. Yes, he's getting older ( aren't we all ), yes he rests some near the seasons end ( if this were a H2H league with playoffs, I might be concerned ), but I don't think there is a huge drop off in Manu's game of late. I've even read where he might be asked to run the point at times, with the departure of " undrafted ".

Pencil him in for 15 ppg, 4-5 assists, 3+ boards, 1.5 steals, and 130 treys. He has shot 45% from the floor for his career, and 85% from the line. I think he gives good value for round 5, and love the solid across the board stats he brings to the table.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 12:58

for Florian
5.03 Nene Hilario, C, Den
I really needed a center with this pick and considered Nene, Greg Monroe and Elton Brand. I went with Nene because he just signed a huge contract with Denver and should get every opportunity to play. If he puts up numbers similar to the last three years (awesome FG%, 13-14ppg, 7.5 rebounds, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks) I will be happy with this pick.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 12:59

for Deejay
5.04 Elton Brand, C, Phi
I really was aiming for Ginobili here, but he went 2 picks before it was my turn... Ive been reading only good things about Brand lately and he was pretty decent last season.

I did also consider Matthews for this pick, but found it a tad early. I had hoped he'd fall to me next round, but no luck.

for Jaydog
5.05 Roy Hibbert, C, Ind
One of my draft goals this year was to try and pick up blocks and rebounds without sacrificing FT %. Once I missed out on Ibaka in round 4 and picked Gasol, I put Hibbert on my short list to try and finish up my C's. I feel like we've been talking for years about Hibbert's upside, and hopefully this is the year that he comes through, but even if he delivers what he delivered last year, I'll be happy with the production. He has potential to deliver a double double every night, with a healthy number of blocks, all while holding his FT% at respectable levels.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 12:59

for reeb
5.06 Andray Blatche, PF, Was
Was looking for a PF that can score with this pick and Blatche fills that need. Looking for a line of 16/8/2 with hopefully a steal and close to 1 block a game. I'm hopeful that another year of Wall getting him the ball will up his FG% up a bit too.

I also took a long look at Jennings here.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 13:00

for Swinganamiss
5.07 Andrew Bynum, C, LAL
A little bit of injury risk here, and I will lose out on a few games at the beginning, but all-in-all, I expect Bynum to produce pretty well with what's in LA right now. I suppose there's a chance he moves elsewhere, but I can't think too much about that. I was in need of a true C. He's healthy at this point, and if he stays that way should be worthy of this pick.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 13:00

for Toral
5.08 Wesley Matthews, SG, Por
Looking for an SG to round out my starting five. In making my queue, preferred Ginobili (5.02) and then went round between Matthews, Allen (6.11-- taken, like Ginobili, by SANFORDORS),and S-Jax (5.12). Jackson suffered because I'm avoiding guys I had last year, and I was looking for a little higher shot %.

With Roy's retirement Matthews has the show to himself. I'm hoping for 17PPG and 2 3s and assists per game. I don't see the newly acquired [undrafted player] being a major detriment to his value.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 13:01

5.09 Brandon Jennings, PG, Mil
A good fit for me here. I’m weak in steals and treys, and can absorb a low FG%. At age 22, I’m hoping that Jennings can continue to develop.

If Jennings had disappeared, I might have gone to Mike Conley, but I really thought Jennings was the better fit.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 15:27

for Skinneej
5.10 Greg Monroe, C, Det
Somewhere along the line, you skip out on what your team needs when a player is sitting there that seems to be passed over for some reason or another (like having Derrick Rose fall to me in round 5 last year). I didn't need a big here, but Monroe was staring me in the face since my last pick. Would have taken Jennings here and hoped Monroe made the turn, but that was settled when Guru snagged him right before me again.

Monroe was a pleasant surprise last year getting better each month as the season went along for the hapless Pistons. His last two months he averaged 13 and 10, while picking up 1.6 steals per game and nearly 1 bpg. He's looking like the second coming of Ben Wallace without the sheer number of rejections or bricks from the FT line. If he can shoot over 70% from the line and get closer to 1.5 bpg while only slightly improving his other numbers, this is a steal at #58.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 15:45

5.11 Jason Kidd, PG, Dal

I was targeting a PF/C with this pick and my short list was Nene, Blatche, Bynum and Monroe. They were all picked between 5.03 and 5.10 which plunged me in deep depression.
Still in need for a C, I've turned to Bargnani which I thought would still be available at 6.02 hence freeing up another choice of position at 5.11 i-e a PG.
I long debated between Kidd and Irving, between grandpa and junior, between ice and fire, between yin and yang. And I went with grandpa. Newly married, I hope Jason can impress his new wife by showing her flashes of his good old self.
More seriously, I just hope no surprise with Kidd, i-e an awful FG%, a good FT% but with a minimal number of FT, 8/5/8 in pts/rbs/ast, and close to 2 treys and steals.
Now if Irving is ROY, I will eternally regret that pick.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 15:50

for Great One

5.12 Stephen Jackson, SF, Mil
6.01 Chauncey Billups, PG, Lac

After going big early, I needed some firepower here, so added some 3 point bombers in Jackson and Billups. Billups can also help out with assists a bit and will add SG eligibility so I will enjoy the flexibility of both guys. Although I'm not in love with their FG%'s, I guess thats what you get when you are going with volume scoring.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 15:58

6.02 Andrea Bargnani, PF/C, Tor

As explained in 5.11, I wanted a C there. Andrea is notoriously not a good rebounder, blocker or thief for a big man but everything else is good, notably his sharp long range shooting touch.
I also liked the blurbs about his commitment to get more boards this year. So I expect similar numbers as previous season with a slightly improved rebounding skill.
Considering he played for his national team over the summer, he's suposedly in good shape and ready to turn things around for the Raptors as their primary offensive weapon.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 17:51

for Skinneej
6.03 Luol Deng, SF, Chi
So still need a guard, but Kidd, S. Jackson and Billups are now off the board as well (my next 3). Was not in love with any of the other guards here and was not ready to jump on a rookie like Irving. Went with the BPA in Deng as he's always a solid ROTO league player and gives you a little of everything while doing nothing great. He's the safest pick here although Gallinari was the other player I considered strongly for his upside.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 17:52

6.04 Tyson Chandler, C, NYK
I had actually targeted Greg Monroe for this pick, but that option disappeared right after my last pick. As the draft was advancing toward this pick, I was trying to decide between Deng and Chandler. I thought Deng had the best overall value, while Chandler offered the best value among bigs. (Demarcus Cousins generally seems to be ranked slightly higher than Chandler, but I wanted better shooting percentages – and he’s a bit of a head case, I fear.)

Skinneej made my decision easier (which is both good and bad news. He seems to be nabbing my targeted players with disturbing regularity.) . In a faster-paced offense, Chandler should see an uptick in all categories, including minutes. Hopefully, his health can hold up. Last year, he missed only 8 games in Dallas, but the prior two seasons saw him out for a total of 68 games.

I have other smaller players ranked a bit higher, but the value differences are getting fairly compact now, and I thought there was more pending scarcity of bigs in the next few rounds – particularly those who can shoot free throws. Chandler is only eligible at center, but that’s not a problem, since my other centers (Horford & Ibaka) are both eligible at PF as well. So I’ll hope that Chandler can stay healthy and get lots of dunks while Amare is getting the defensive attention.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 17:58

6.05 Tony Parker, PG, S.A.

With flexibility where to go here I liked the possibilities of Luoi Deng (picked at 6.03), Parker, Conley,and Boozer. I like to grab a second PG early.

Parker never seems to get any respect but he's all consistency and dependability. I've already grabbed maybe too many "growth potential" guys. 16-18 ppg, 49% shooting, 6 and a half apg, 3 rebounds and more than a steal per game will be fine for my #2 point guard. His stint in Europe means he's primed and ready to go.

Jaydog
ID: 472331610
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 20:54

for Swinganamiss
6.06 Dalino Gallinari, SF, Den
I think I am running low on 3PM at this stage in the draft. Looking at what's there I was considering Ray Allen and Gallinari, but was having a tough time also getting past Duncan. I am hopeful for Gallinari to improve to >16ppg and close to 2 3PM/G.

Jaydog
ID: 472331610
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 20:55

for reeb
6.07 Demarcus Cousins, C, Sac
I had Gallinari,Cousins,and Conley as my 3 choices for this pick and sure enough they went in exactly that order. I feel Gallinari would have fit my team needs better but I'm happy getting Cousins here.

Cousins should get all the minutes he can handle if he keeps his head on straight. From everything I read he looked great in exhibition games over the summer. Looking for 16 and 10 line with above average assists for a big man. Add in a block and steal a game and hopefully a slight improvement in FG% and this pick could end up being a real steal. His 68% FT% obviously means nothing to me.

Jaydog
ID: 472331610
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 21:01

6.08 Mike Conley, PG, Mem

When I planned out my 5th and 6th round picks, I was hoping to end up with Hibbert and one of Wes Matthews or Conley. It's wonderful when a plan comes together. I looked at the two players and decided that Hibbert had less of a chance of making it into the 6th round so went with him first and Conley in the 6th round. Conley gives me a 3rd PG with a well above average assist and steals. He also should deliver an above average FG% for a guard. Memphis seems to be a team on the rise with good young talent around Conley, so if anything I expect his assist numbers to increase this year. Not a flashy player at all, and I think his scoring upside is limited, but I have a feeling I'll be happy with his consistent production.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 22:08

for deejay

6.09 Kevin Garnett PF Bos
Where is the time KG was our universal number 1 pick ;)

The guy that does a little bit of everything(except 3s) with very good % 's....
I felt he was the right choice for me there, although I didnt really need another big at that point. I hope Rivers doesn't sit him too much.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 22:10

For Great One

6.10 Kyrie Irving PG Cle (via trade)
Went with another young PG. Thinking he should get plenty of playing time and lots of upside but not much of a track record. In theory I am just as happy with Irving as I would have been with some of the other mid level talent from the previous round or two, so dropping a couple rounds wasn't that big a deal to me. The value I can add will be what I can get with 8.10 vs. a last round pick. So hopefully something good is still there when it arrives.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Dec 18, 2011, 22:14

6.11 Ray Allen SG Bos

My team is suddenly getting older with the selection of another 3 point sharp shooter. Ray's been around for ever, and while his career may be winding down, he can still he can still score, and score from long range.

This isn't a very exciting pick, but Ray give's me what I was looking for at this point. He's averaged 80 games the last three years, so hopefully he can remain healthy. He should post around 15 ppg, better than 1.5 threes and 1 steal, all with solid %'s.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 09:12

for Da Bomb
6.12 Tim Duncan, C, SA
One thing you notice when looking at Duncan's career numbers are that there are a lot of them. He's about to enter his 15th season! His scoring average dropped to 13.5 ppg last year, his minutes to 28 and now he's scheduled for back-to back-to backs. He still can be a solid contributor though and if nothing else he qualifies at center and can block at an elite level.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 09:12

for Da Bomb
7.01 Darren Collison, PG, Ind
I feel like you need at least 2 solid PGs to compete so I grabbed my 2nd one here. Nothing too special about him but hopefully he plays well enough to keep his job and he'll be given the opportunity to succeed on a young team. He just needs to steadily produce.

Florian
ID: 549221910
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 12:33

for Dave R
7.02 Luis Scola, PF, Hou
I really wanted TD here, and actually meant to take him last round, but that went by way of a family Christmas get together. So of course he was gone by the time the draft got back to me 2 picks later. So, I flip flopped between Scola and Odom, and while I really like Odom in Dallas, I think Scola was a safer pick, since it looks like Pau isn't going to be a Rocket.

Luis is a solid scorer, and rebounder and should fetch somewhere around 18-20 points and 7 boards. He won't do much else in the counting stats, but for his career he shoots over 50% from the floor and 75% from the line.

Florian
ID: 549221910
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 12:39

7.03 Carlos Boozer, PF, Chi

I was really hoping to take one of Ray Allen, Tim Duncan or Luis Scola here, but they were all drafted just before my pick.

Boozer will hopefully bounce back from his disappointing first season in Chicago. He used to average 20 points and 10 rebounds in Utah with excellent FG% and I'm hoping to can get close to those numbers during his second season in Chicago. I'm hoping he manages to stay healthy as well

I considered David West, Marcus Thornton, and Jared Dudley, but decided a second center would be preferable as that would mean I'd filled all my basic required positions and I could draft whoever seemed like the best value the rest of the draft.

jaydog
ID: 1111161913
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 14:16

for Deejay
7.04 Marcus Thornton, SG, Sac
I had 3 names here Thornton/Harden/Batum...

Batum I scratched first, hoping he could fall to me the next round. But the first pick of Round 8 appeared and Bang, Batum was gone.

Thornton vs Harden I opted for the one that's starting. Harden still seems to come off the bench....

jaydog
ID: 1111161913
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 14:20

7.05 Jason Terry, SG, Dal

I've been trying to mix upside guys with consistent producers throughout the draft, and Terry definitely fits the bill as a consistent producer. I had really hoped for Ray Allen (6.11) with this pick as my team needs were 3's and FG%. Missing out on Shuttlesworth, I felt Terry was a reasonable fall back. You know what your going to get w/ Terry. 30+ minutes a game, 16 or so points, and 2 3's per game, all while shooting a respectable FG%.

I'm not in love with Terry as a player, but his skill set matched perfectly with what I needed, and there's been no more consistent player over the past several years.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 15:03

for reeb
7.06 Devin Harris, PG, Uta
Was looking for assists and some threes with this pick and I feel if he stays healthy this is a great upside pick. He should have no trouble putting up 15 points and 7 assists a game. If he can get me close to a three a game and play in 50 games then I think he will be worth this 7th round pick.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 15:14

for Swinganamiss

7.07 Deandre Jordan, C, LAC
Was eying up Jordan here very soon after my previous pick, as I am weak in blocks. Kaman is gone, so Jordan has opportunity to really excel. He may not be a top option on offense, but I am hopeful of a breakout season with big numbers in blocks and FGs and maybe Griffin will share some boards and lobs with him.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 15:16

7.08 Boris Diaw, PF/SF, Cha

I had a 5- or 6-man queue heading into this pick but at 6.12 there was a run of 4 from the queue: Duncan, Collison, Scola and Boozer. I intuited that DeAndre Jordan (7.07) wasn't going to make it to me and found myself at 5:30 A.M. composing a whole new queue.

People had taken my bigs so I decided to opt for a different kind ofbig. Silas describes Diaw as a "Point-Center", a position I can't find on Yahoo! The center eligibility will come later. I don't know how this will work out for the team; Diaw is bulking up to handle other bigs and may have a different kind of stat line than in the past (12 ppg,a dime per game, 5 rpg and 4 apg). But he should get his PT considering the talent available, and produce something useful.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 15:31

7.09 James Harden, SG, OKC
Harden is someone I’ve been keeping my eye on for several rounds. His rankings seem to be all over the lot. From five different sources, I’ve seem him ranked as high as #25 (RotoWire – that seems rather extreme), and as low as #75 (ESPN). At pick #81, I feel like I’m getting good value, regardless.

Harden will probably still come off the bench, at least to start the season. I’m still hoping to see some growth in minutes played. Harden’s statistical strengths are in treys and steals, both categories that I need some help in.

Or maybe it’s just the beard that has me drawn in.

Skinneej
ID: 26914279
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 15:57

7.10 Jarrett Jack, PG, NOR

Going into this selection I was pretty happy with my first 6 picks and felt I had a good balance across all categories. The only areas I needed to boost were assists and 3s. I targetted a few players as the round was progressing and settled on Harden, Dudley, Jack, and Devin Harris. I had hoped to nab two of these guards with my next two picks. The managers drafting just before me made this easier as Harris and Harden were taken just before my turn.

Jack has moved up the boards in the preseason thanks to Chris Paul being traded, and his solid play in camp. I originally had him ranked in the 120-130 range, but had pushed him all the way to 81 when this pick was being considered. While Dudley was still slightly higher on my list, I felt there were more options at the off guard left than solid PGs. If Jack didn't make the turn, I'd have to drop down to the next tier of PGs that we're not as exciting at this stage. In a contract year at age 28,
and playing for probably the leagues worst team, it could be a big year for him!

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 16:17

7.11 David West, PF, Ind

Unbelievable West was still unpicked by end of round 7. All other RIHC leagues drafted him at round 5 or 6.
Clearly I has other plans for that pick but just couldn't pass on him. He might be not the David West from NO anymore, with Paul feeding him, but he's suposedely still a 18-20 pts guy with 7-8 boards and awesome % for a big man. If that holds true, this is a major steal at round 7.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 17:22

for Great One
7.12 Lamar Odom, F, DAL
8.01 Nicholas Batum, F, POR
Lamar Odom I think was a bit undervalued since his move to Dallas. I am confident he'll get plenty of playing time at various positions,
and I love that he helps out across the board. His lower FT% shouldn't be an issue since I've picked good FT% to this point. I had hoped Boozer or Scola would fall to this spot actually, but Odom is a solid consolation prize. Batum I was just going for a high upside sleeper. He seems to be on everyone's sleeper lists and helps out in all categories.

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 18:35

8.02 Jason Richardson, SF, Orl

I needed my first eligible SF with that pick. My short list was Richardson, Batum (8.01), DeRozan (8.04) and Beasley (8.08).
The fact I was behind in treys made the choice easy. Jason might not be in his prime anymore but he's still one of the top long range shooter. His lame FT% is balanced with everything else. He just extended his time with Orlando so i hope it's a sign he's happy there and ready to bomb treys all season.

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 19:46

8.03 Jared Dudley, SG/SF, PHO

Per the previous pick's rationale, Dudley was the other guy I wanted, so was happy to see him make the turn. He's the starter in Phoenix, and even with the addition of Shannon Brown he's gonna get plenty of run with old man Nash feeding him the ball. He's an all-around player that will boost my team's 3s and steals while not hurting me significantly anywhere else.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 20:30

8.04 DeMar DeRozan, SF, Tor
I have him as the top ranked player available, and perhaps the best scorer left on the board, averaging 20 ppg after the all star break last year. Not necessarily a stat stuffer, but solid percentages and a smattering of stats across the board. At age 22 entering his 3rd NBA season, I ‘m looking for continued growth. Although he'll be primarily a guard on Toronto, I’ll probably use him at SF on my team.

I'd probably have taken Dudley if he had lasted, but Skinneej did it again.

Toral
ID: 010321615
Mon, Dec 19, 2011, 20:35

8.05 Chris Kaman, C, NO

It's unclear what the exact division of labour between Kaman and Orafor (8.12) will be but there will be plenty of minutes for both of them. 2 years ago, when healthy, he put up 18.5 pts and 9 rebounds a game. So here's hoping he stays healthy. He played in Europe and seems good to go.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 00:00

for Swinganamiss
8.06 Channing Frye, PF PHO
Well, as I mentioned previously, I need 3s and blocks. Frye, inexplicably can do both. Thus I grabbed him here. I had considered Jack in the previous round, but thought he might slide one more round. I had also hoped DeRozan would be available here. There were a few PGs I was looking at here also, but settled on Frye and waited on a PG for another round.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 11:38

for reeb
8.07 Jameer Nelson, PG< OrlBI wanted another point guard here to cement my assist totals. Jameer also puts up a lot of 3's which I felt I was still a bit lacking. Looking a little closer his numbers are surprisingly close to Mike Conley who I almost selected 2 rounds earlier. As usual health will be a big factor in determining how happy I am with this pick.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 11:39

for Jaydog
8.08 Michael Beasley, SF, Min
I had targeted DeRozan for this pick (as had many others), and as it turns out I never had a shot at him. Being a first time RIHC'er, it's clear that there are no sleepers in this draft as everyone is very much on the ball. Missing out on DeRozan, I turned towards another SF that I had on my short list, Michael Beasley. I had Beasley on my team last year, and he provided above average production in almost every stat category for the position. If he can come close or even exceed his 20ppg, 6rpg, .7 bpg, .7spg, and .7 3pg I'll be very happy with the selection. I think there is always off the court worries with Beasley, and hopefully he will play nice enough to stay on the court, but as long as he does I think he'll provide good production across the board.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 11:39

for Deejay
8.09 Jeff Teague, PG, Atl
I really wanted a PG here, since I had only Nash so far...

It's a bit of a gamble, but with Crawford gone and Undrafted injured, I think he will see a lot of minutes. Also strongly considered Toney Douglas here, but I see more upside in Teague.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 11:40

for Great One
8.10 Andreson Varejao, C, CLE
This is strictly a FG% and rebounds big man pick... got some firepower with low FG%'s that I need to find a way to offset so Varejao should at least cancel out one
of those guys. And there figures to be plenty of missed shots to go around in Cleveland so thinking he'll put up some damn good rebound numbers. Much of his
competition for minutes has left town too. How much better Varejao is than a last rounder will be the deciding factor if it was worth trading down from the 4th to the 6th.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 14:38

8.11 Paul George SF Ind

I always seem to struggle in the middle rounds and rounds 8 and 9 proved to be no exception. I may have reached a little early for Paul ( or is it George ), but none the less I like his game, and many sites tout him to be one of this years sleepers.

George can do a little bit of everything and is vowing to me more assertive on the offensive end. If he can give me 10 ppg, 5 boards, and 1 steal, block, and 3 per, along with decent %'s, I'll be thrilled.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 15:13

for Da Bomb
8.12 Emeka Okafor, C, Nor
Saw a decent drop-off in center after him (given Dalembert's uncertainty at the time). Will be another solid source of boards and blocks which may be needed given the health and age concerns of Bogut and Duncan, respectively.

9.01 Antawn Jamison, PF, Cle
Wow - another guy on my squad entering his 15th season. He seems to be showing even less signs of slowing down than Duncan though and there's a very real chance he leads his team in scoring, albeit for the Cavs. He did average a solid 18 and 7 last year before his year got cut short due to a finger injury. If he puts up a full season of stats he will no doubt outperform this draft position.

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 15:14

for Dave R
9.02 Toney Douglas PG NYK
Not at all thrilled with this pick. I had Toney at the top of my queue, when the news broke about the Knicks signing Baron. Talk about timing. So I went back and forth over all the other options, none of which thrilled me. I kind of wish I had taken Afflalo, but he wasn't signed at the time.

Toney it was.

Never wanting to wish ill will on anyone, but maybe Baron is just to old and fragile. If Douglas can get decent minutes, in the NYK offense, I think he can get me 13/4/4, and over a steal per game. His FG% may leave a little to be desired, but he can knock down 80% of his free throws, a stat I needed help in .

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 15:15

for Florian
9.03 Arron Affalo, SG, Den
I had a really hard time with this pick. I considered about 20 different people for this pick, but it came down to Affalo and about 5 other players: Augustin, Stuckey, Maggette, Calderon, and Kirilenko. All the players listed have significant risks involved, but I felt that Affalo had the lowest risk. He should be due for a career year. He had not yet signed a contract with Denver when I made this pick, but I was hopeful he would sign with Denver soon. I expect at least 12 points per game, 1.5 3PTM, great percentages (50%FG, 85%FT) and a few steal/blocks/rebounds/assists.

100

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:32

for Deejay
9.04 Anthony Morrow, SF, NJN
Had a list of 4 here:
Douglas/Afflalo/Morrow/Hill(the Indiana one).

Funny thing is Douglas/Afflalo went right before me, so was left with the choice between Hill and Morrow. Opted for Morrow thinking Hill could fall in my lap next round. No such thing happened of course, he got picked right after me. :)

Here's hoping Morrow stays healthy and drains me a lot of 3's.

101

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:33

for Jaydog
9.05 George Hill, PG, Ind
Really wanted Afflalo with this pick. Three rounds in a row where the guy I was targeting was sniped just a few picks before. You guys are good.

George Hill seems like a waiver wire scramble every year when either Tony Parker or Manu go down, so I am hoping a starting spot in Indy will help to boost his value through more consistent minutes. Hill doesn't fill up any stat category, but provides a handful of assists, steals, and 3's to go with double digit points and above average percentage stats for a shooting guard. Hill's backcourt mate in Collison certainly doesn't light up the score sheet so I am hopeful that plenty of opportunities are given to Hill to be a go to scoring option after Granger. At least that's what I'm telling myself since I'm still bumming on missing out on Afflalo.

102

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:33

for reeb
9.06 Nick Young, SG, Was
As soon as I saw Young had officially signed back with the Wizards he jumped to the top of my list. With Wall dishing to him and Blatche and McGee down low he should have plenty of room to do what he does best, which is scoring a ton. He won't help much besides 3's and points but in round 9 I think he is a great value. The fact that he is in a contract year can't hurt either.

103

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:34

for Swinganamiss
9.07 Jose Calderon, PG, Tor
I actually had been watching Calderon since for at least one pick before this one. I believe he had over 600 assists last year, and I don't know that his situation has changed all that much. He will still share time with Bayless (9.10). I am not necessarily expecting gaudy numbers, but serviceable for this round of the draft. I believe Calderon was a consensus 2nd rounder last year. Hopefully he can stay healthy. I had also considered Nick Young, until he went just before me.

104

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:34

for Toral
9.08 DJ Augustin, PG, Cha
Now we're getting into choices between the "Yeah he's OK, but is he going to start and if so for long?" players and the "Sure he's going to start, but so what, he's mediocre" players.

Everyone seems to be using the word "focused" to describe Augustin's attitude/play in camp so far. Maybe the team used it in a press release or something. He may be pressed by the rookie [undrafted player] , which is giving him his focus, but I think they're going to give Augustin every chance to hold him off. He'll put up 14 ppg with 6 assists and 1.5 threes per game.

I had been hoping for Afflalo with this pick but Florian exhibited his truly amazing ability to take people who are at the top of my list. Jose Calderon, my second choice after Augustin, was taken the pick before.

105

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 18:35

9.09 Tony Allen, SF, Mem
I have Allen ranked as the best player available, and he also happens to excel in the stat I’m weakest in – steals. In the 31 games he started last year, he average 13.4 ppg, with 2.3 steals, 0.9 blocks, 2 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and a FG% of 54%. I don’t think I need stats that good to give him value here.

106

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 19:00

9.10 Jerryd Bayless, PG/SG, TOR

With my 9/10 round picks, I had targeted another guard (preferable with assists) and wanted to shore up some blocks. I had one C eligible player in mind, but decided to grab the guard first and hope he made the turn.

The best options at guard I thought after Augustin, Calderon and Tony Allen all were off the board were Bayless, Stuckey and Kemba Walker. Stuckey was still not signed and Kemba had not played the 1st pre-season game so I felt Bayless presented the best value. Although there is still a time-share with Calderon, Bayless has showed flashes of what he can do as a starter. In 14 starts last year, he averaged 18.6 ppg, 6.7 apg, 1 spg, 1.2 3s and great shooting pcts for a guard.

107

Gescom
Dude
ID: 520461315
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 20:01

9.11 Tyrus Thomas, PF/C, Cha

A bit of a super slipper here. In the depleted Bobcats frontcourt, Thomas is supposed to log on heavy minutes. What I hope is 12pts, 8 rbs, 2 blocks, 1 steal per game. If that happens, I will be thrilled.

108

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 21:16

for Great One
9.12 Derrick Williams, PF, MIN
10.01 Jamal Crawford, SG, ATL
Williams I'm going with as a lottery ticket type late rounder who could produce across the board if the minutes are there... plus I had Kyrie already so why not pair up the 2 hot young rookies and see what happens.

Crawford should provide some more scoring punch, and I think was a good late round value at this point. With Roy gone, Portland is going to need to find reliable scoring, and Crawford can do that in bunches.

109

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 21:17

for Gescom
10.02 CJ Miles, SG/SF, Uta
I agonized over this pick for several hours. My short list also included Delfino (10.05), Casspi (10.09), Maggette (10.10), Turkoglu (10.11) and Ariza (11.09). I went with CJ considering he has apparently won the starting job, he's out of his best season in the league and is entering his prime (26). What I expect is slightly improved numbers vs last season, something like 13 pts, 1.5 trey, 1 steal and a couple assists and boards.

110

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 21:18

for Skinneej
10.03 Ed Davis, PF, Tor
Wanted another big for blocks and rebs, and had targeted UNC alum Ed Davis here. Of all the players remaining, I felt he gave me the best rounded game to go with the stats I needed a boost in. He could make the jump in his second year to posting near double doubles each night and avg over 1.5 blks per game. He may be given the starting PF spot this year with Amir Johnson backing up both the 4 and 5 positions, so this made him an ideal pick for my team at this point.

Considered Humphries but needed blocks more than rebs. Also he wasn't signed yet and there was uncertainty in New Jersey regarding D. Howard trade rumors so wasn't sure if NJ could sign him if the trade went down.

111

Guru
ID: 330592710
Tue, Dec 20, 2011, 21:21

10.04 Kris Humphries, PF, The Kardashians
Of course, I was planning to take Ed Davis here. I’m pretty sure Skinneej and I are working off the same list.

I wanted to get some rebounding help, and Humphries probably offers the best fit – if only he signs with someone. I’m hoping he ends up back on the Nets, soon. Regardless, I think I’m getting him about a 2-round discount here, so it seems like an appropriate gamble.

On the day after I made this pick, reports are that Humphries is on the verge of signing with the Nets, maybe in time for Wednesday night's preseason game.

112

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 07:21

for Toral
10.05 Carlos Delfino,SF, Mil
I was looking for an SF. Delfino shoots 3s and lots of them, throws in some steals, and otherwise has generic late-round SF stats.

Seriously considered Stuckey, who was taken with the next pick, and perhaps should have but the new rotation in Detroit had me confused. Also considered Maggette (10.10), Kirilenko (11.03) [both taken by Florian; the mind meld continues], and Ariza (11.09).

113

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 07:22

for Swinganamiss
10.06 Rodney, Stuckey, SG, Det
When I made this pick Stuckey was rumored to be the starting SG for Detroit. There's a bit of a logjam in Detroit, which could cause me considerable headaches this year. I am hoping that Stuckey earns his minutes in some combination of PG and SG. I needed some guards in these middle rounds, as I had only 2 guards in the first 8 picks. Would've been happy with Miles or Delfino in this spot also.

114

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 07:22

for reeb
10.07 Samuel Dalembert, C, Sac=>Hou
Wanted big man stats to compliment Dwight. Sammy D. fit the bill as long as he was getting good minutes like I assumed he would with Houston. The days after this pick seemed like it would hurt me twofold with both Dalembert and Cousins. Fortunately it was announced today that Dally is going to Houston for unlimited minutes like I had hoped when I made this selection.

116

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 08:51

for Jaydog
10.08 Omri Casspi, SF, Cle
I may be over compensating for missing out on Ray Allen and Afflalo, but still decided that I could use some 3s and also wanted another SF and Casspi fits the bill. Not an overly exciting player, but he doesn't have much, if any, competition in Cleveland for playing time, which should translate into a ton of three point shots. As long as he makes a few per game, and doesn't kill me with FG%, Casspi will serve his purpose. Given that his minutes should be plentiful I think Casspi is about as safe a pick here as I could find.

117

deejay
Sustainer
ID: 501182710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 10:53

10.09 Landry Fields, SG/SF, NYK

Was doubting between Jordan Crawford and Fields, I wasnt wild about Crawford FG% and Landry seems to do a bit of everything with decent %'s.
Hope I get the Landry from the first half of last year's season.

118

Florian
ID: 549221910
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 11:06

10.10 Corey Maggette, SF, Cha

I was happy to see Maggette still available when I made this pick. He was traded to Charlotte last June to be their primary scorer. Maggette has never had trouble scoring when given the opportunity. I'm expecting Maggette to score close to 20ppg, make a lot of free throws at a high percentage, pull down 5 rebounds and get the odd steal or 3 pointer. Hopefully he can stay healthy.

I considered Kirilenko, Brandon Knight, and Kemba Walker for this pick.

119

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 11:07

for Dave R
10.11 Hedo Turkoglu SF Orl

Who knows where Hedo ends up ( if part of a DH12 movement ), or if he simply stays in Orlando. We do know, that Hedo is not the player he once was, basically an across the board stat filler, capable of 15/5/5 for most of his career.

His game certainly was not what it once was, until the trade that brought him to Orlando. after becoming a member of the Magic, he averaged 10+ ppg, 4.6 boards, 5.1 assists, and 1.5 treys. Maybe the trade reinvented his career, maybe I just wasted a draft pick, but if he can come close to those numbers this season, I got real good value at the end of round 10.

120

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 12:03

for Da Bomb
10.12 Jordan Crawford, SG, WAS
Only had one guy (Kobe) who was a SG so chose to look small here. Crawford led his team in shots this preseason which I find to be a telling stat as the best scorers on a team should take the most shots, right? He is quite talented and in 18 starts last year he averaged 19 points, 5 assists, 3.5 boards and over a 3 and steal per game. The recent re-signing of Nick Young puts his early year value in question but I feel his skills will push him into heavy minutes soon enough.

11.01 Chase Budinger, SF, HOU
I feel Budinger is undervalued this year given his overall stats from last season, but like Jordan Crawford, Budinger was a solid contributor when given the chance to start and that's his projected role to enter this season.

121

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 12:04

for Dave R
11.02 11.02 Kemba Walker, PG, Cha

I was looking to shore up my back court, and Kemba seemed like your typical risk/reward type guy. I had a little reservation about making him the choice, but felt better immediately after, when I received a trade offer for him.

There are two diminutive PG's in Charlotte, it remains to be seen how the are deployed. I've read where the Bobcats are considering putting both on the court at the same time. Time will tell.

Walker lit it up in college last year to the tune of 23.5 ppg, 5.4 boards, 5.1 assists, 2 steals and 3's per. College doesn't always translate to the same level in the pros, but talents is there. Let's see how it pans out.

122

Florian
ID: 549221910
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 12:42

11.03 Andrei Kirilenko, SF, ???

I spent a lot of time debating between Kirilenko and Brandon Knight for this pick. Kirilenko is currently unsigned, but there have been a lot of rumours that he may end up with the Nets. The Nets would be a perfect team for him. There would be little competition for minutes at the SF position unlike last year when he had CJ Miles cutting into his minutes. If he manages to play he should easily be able to match last year's numbers of about 11 ppg, 5 boards, 3 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.2 blocks and 0.5 3PTM. That is assuming he signs with the Nets and manages to stay healthy (I'd be happy be with close to 50 games).

I could really have used a second PG for my team. I consider Knight, but I'm not sure how the minutes are going to play out in Detroit and how well Knight manages to play. I'm hoping I don't look back on this pick as the one that sunk my team.

123

deejay
Sustainer
ID: 501182710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:08

11.04 Grant Hill, SF, Pho

I passed on Jordan Crawford last round, as usual he was gone when it was my turn again.
While Grant Hill is nothing flashy, he does a little bit of everything and wont kill my percentages. I did also consider B.Knight and Blair here.

124

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:38

for Jaydog
11.05 Ryan Anderson, PF, Orl
3's and boards, that's what I'm looking for Ryan Anderson to provide, both statistics that I felt my team was lacking in. While his FG% is a bit low for the position, he should have plenty of open looks from 3 with defenses collapsing on Howard down low, so he'll probably be towards the top of the league. The other two guys on my list for this pick were Kemba Walker, and Corey Maggette, both who were selected prior. Made my decision fairly easy!

125

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:39

for reeb
11.06 Brendan Haywood, C, Dal
I'm a sucker for centers I guess. I feel like Dallas has to give him a bunch of run with the lack of depth behind him and all that cash they threw at him a year ago. Good blocks and boards with FG% I need even with Dwight.

126

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:40

for Swinganamiss
11.07 Brandon Knight, PG, Det
What's one headache without another? Now I have "guaranteed" myself to have the starting PG, regardless of what happens with Stuckey. Hopefully I now have both starting guards, though ----undrafted (x 3?)-- --will get their minutes also. I am hopeful that this rookie will excel at this level, but at this point it's no sure thing. I had Turkoglu in my queue for this pick. Debated taking Blair actually, but still needed some guards.

127

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:41

for Toral
11.08 DeJuan, Blair, C, SA
I had made my queue about 12 hours before this pick came up and till just before my pick the top two names on my queue were the 2 guys who were taken next, Ariza and Young. Maybe I had too much time on my hands as I decided to reexamine my priorities I was going to take a C with my following pick but decided it was better to do it now. Considering that Blair was the only center taken before my next pick, the change in plans may not have been a good idea.

Blair's 22 and so might improve any day now, which makes him a sleeper in some books. He already hits the boards pretty well and his other contributions are mildly positive.

128

Guru
ID: 330592710
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 17:42

11.09 Trevor Ariza, SF
Heading into this pick, my short list was Ryan Anderson, DeJuan Blair, Thaddeus Young, and Ariza. Anderson would have been my first choice, be he disappeared 4 picks ago. Of the other three, I think Ariza would have been my choice – but I’m not completely sure.

129

skinneej
Leader
ID: 040625911
Wed, Dec 21, 2011, 22:57

11.10 Thaddeus Young, SF/PF, PHI

Didn't have anyone specific for this pick, and just wanted the BPA. Young is a player I've liked the past couple seasons, but never could get him on my roster. He's pretty balanced across most categories and I think he can contribute each night for my team vs just being a fill in type player. He's still young, and in a condensed season if he gets a few starts, he could have 8-9th round value. Let's hope for youth winning out in Philly!

130

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 08:36

for Gescom
11.11 John Salmons, SF, Sac
Still thin at SG/SF positions, I went with unspectacular but stat filler Salmons. He does a bit of everything and is not a killer anywhere. I just hope that with the quantity of black holes there is in Sacramento, he maintains his FG attempts this year.

131

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 08:40

for Great One
11.12 Ricky Rubio, G, MIN
12.01 Josh McRoberts, F, LAL
Just going for some guys who will get some playing time cause you never know. Rubio is an enigma. I think he'll be fun to watch.. .maybe like Jason Williams when he first debuted in Sacramento? I don't know. But anything can happen with playing time and nobody else with a firm grasp on the PG job in MIN. Thought I might get Blair or Knight here, and was pretty close.

McRoberts will probably split time with Murphy, so i guess the wager here is that Murphy or Bynum will get hurt giving me more PT. Thats a pretty decent wager I'd say. McRoberts helps in a variety of categories if he can get the minutes.

132

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 08:42

for Gescom
12.02 Richard Hamilton, SG, Det
Hamilton was making his debut with the Bulls about at the same time this pick was due. And the proven veteran seems to be the right fit for this team. So I didn't hesitate long. Unchallenged for minutes in Chicago, I expect 15 pts, a trey, a steal, 5 ast and 3-4 boards per game.

133

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 08:43

for Skinneej
12.03 Jimmer Fredette, SG, Sac
Exciting rookie that could light it up at times this season, but may run into the problem of playing NBA defense since he didn't have to do much in college. However, he's got a good situation under Paul Westphal so maybe that doesn't matter. He should get plenty of time logging mins at the 1 and 2 spots, so 30 mins per game is possible if they play small ball as they did in preseason. He's shown the ability to get assists as well as drain 3s from all over the place, so this pick could help shore up those cats for my team.

134

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 08:43

12.04 Gordon Hayward, SG/SF, Uta
Finished well last season, and should contend for a starting role at either SG or SF. Another youngster (21) with some upside as a late pick.

135

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 18:12

for Toral
12.05 Wesley Johnson, SG, Min

136

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 18:13

for Swinganamiss
12.06 Vince Carter, SG, Dal
Talk about headaches, here's another one. I wanted someone who was eligible at guard and forward. That flexibility really helped me out last season. Vince was the best I could come up with. Hopefully he's not getting TOO old yet. I need him to provide some scoring for me.

137

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 18:14

for reb
12.07 Brandon Bass, PF, Bos
With only the aging KG and Jermo in front of him he could be poised for big minutes with the condensed schedule. If not he can be cut for the hot pick up of the week.

138

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 18:14

for Jaydog
12.08 Amir Johnson, PF, Tor
I feel like Johnson has been on my list of late round sleepers to draft for several seasons in a row. He showed flashes of value last year, but was extremely inconsistent. When he's "on" he'll threaten a double double with 1-2 blocks per game, and hopefully he'll be more on than off this year. Ed Davis will certainly compete for playing time, but the minutes are there in Toronto for Johnson to provide decent value with above average FG and FT percentages for a big man. If he doesn't come through this year, I promise I'll never draft him again.

139

Guru
ID: 330592710
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 18:15

for Deejay
12.09 Glen Davis, PF, Orl
I figured I could use another C on my team, one that doesn't kill my FT%, Also looked at Hickson. Figured Big Baby might want to prove something, and it seemed he was starting, but now I'm not so sure anymore, Anderson started last game. We'll see.

140

Florian
ID: 580203010
Thu, Dec 22, 2011, 20:52

12.10 Caron Butler, SF, LAC

Butler just signed a 8 million per year contract to play with the Clippers. He'll start at SF and hopefully put up 15 ppg, 4-5 boards, 1.2 steals with decent percentages. If he can stay healthy that is excellent value at the end of the 12th round.

I considered Hickson and Marion for this pick as well.

141

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:28

for Dave R
12.11 JJ Hickson PF Sac
I felt a need to shore up some big man's stats. JJ Hickson, supposedly locked in a battle for the PF position with Jason Thompson, but according to Rotowire he is the " undisputed starter at PF ". The news got even better with Sammy D's signing elsewhere.

His %'s leave a little to be desired, for a big guy, and his first third of last years season certainly weren't overwhelming last year, but in the final 54 games of 2011 he averaged 17 ppg and 10 boards. I'm not expecting those lofty averages but think he can get me 15/8. Add a steal and block, and I'd be a happy camper with this pick in round 12

142

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:29

for Da Bomb
12.12 Ramon Sessions, PG, CLE
Many managers late in drafts tend to take lottery type players. Sometimes they hit but usually they end up being worthless. I normally go for a player I can count on for production. Sessions will be the starting PG in game 1. Will he be the starter in game 66? I doubt it, but I can worry about that later. Stats last year as a starter: 14.5 points, 6 assists, 3.7 bds, 1 steal and solid percentages.

13.01 Marcus Camby, C, POR
Coming off his worst year but center depth is always valuable and he can still board and block, when he is on the court that is.

143

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:30

for Dave R
13.02 Evan Turner SG Phi
Turner disappointed last year in his rookie season, I think of him this year as the ultimate boom or bust type player. I might have jumped the gun to early, but thought after his 13 point, 9 boards, 4 assist preseason game the other night that maybe this is the year for Evan. After all, wasn't he supposedly the most " NBA ready " rookie last year

If Iggy remains in Philly, or Evan can't wrestle some playing time away from Jodie Meeks ( really ? ), this was a wasted pick and he becomes waiver wire fodder. But, just maybe, I got lucky

144

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:31

for Florian
13.03 Shawn Marion, PF, Dal
Marion has averaged 12 ppg, 6.5 boards and close to a steal and a block per game while shooting greater than 50 percent from the floor in each of his last two years in Dallas. Hopefully this year he manages to put up similar numbers. If he does then he is excellent value in the 13th round.

145

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:32

for Deejay
13.04 Baron Davis, PG, NYK
I was wondering if he would drop another round, but I was not all so sure about that, it's a bit of a gamble, but it could really pay off. If he's motivated (and healthy), I think he could surprise this season. Hit or Miss :)

146

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 09:32

for Jaydog
13.05 Derrick Favors, PF, Uta
I began the draft with Favors on my list of late round picks to target and decided that with Hickson taken (had Hickson ranked higher) and no other players left that excited me I would jump at Favors. His potential is huge and the Jazz should be committed to him given that he was the centerpiece in the Williams deal. Now with Okur shipped out of town, he should get plenty of minutes at PF and C and will hopefully rack up a ton of boards and blocks for me while shooting an above average FG%. Upside with Favors is huge, and I think he should play enough minutes to remain a productive piece all season. Wasn't planning on grabbing him until the 14th round, but I think the value was there to grab him in 13.

147

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:38

for reeb
13.06 Jermaine O'Neal, C, Bos
Should be a good source of blocks and boards until he gets hurt. Supposedly he looked great in camp so hopefully that's a good sign.

148

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:38

for Swinganamiss
13.07 Tristan Thompson, PF CLE
Hopefully this is a Swing and a Hit. Just taking a flier on a young guy who could eventually get some air time. Might not be right away. I wanted an upside type pick before they were all gone, so I just went with this one. Will see how long I keep him around for his "potential". For example,
I was hopeful to get Evan Turner at this spot.

149

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:39

for Toral
13.08 Rashard Lewis, SF, Was
At this point I'm looking for talent anywhere and not for any particular positional need. I looked at the top ten names on three different lists. No consensus! The only two players named on as many as two lists were Lewis and Ramon Sessions, who was subsequently taken at 12.12. So Lewis it is. His health is questionable and he's never really caught on with the Wizards,but there's likely still some talent there.

150

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:40

13.09 James Johnson, SF/PF, Tor
A bit of a flier in round 13. Slotted to start at SF for the Raptors. Last year, in 25 games as a starter, he averaged 9 pts, 5 boards, 3 assists, a block and a steal, shooting 46%/70%. He should get plenty of minutes this season. Age 24. We’ll see what develops.

151

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:41

for Skinneej
13.10 Andre Miller, PG, Den
Curry already has a banged up ankle, and will likely have issues all season with it, so better get some help. There's not many PG still available that are capable of putting up 5+ assist per night, except old man Miller. He and Lawson have played together in the preseason and Miller had some nice stats, but that was without Afflalo on the court. But he did get a ringing endorsement from George Karl calling him the "smartest player he's ever coached." Hopefully that means Karl will want him on the court at crunch time to pad those stats.

152

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:42

for Gescom
13.11 Kendrick Perkins, C, OKC
In need of one last C more rebounder and blocker than scorer, i was considering Camby (13.01), Biedrins (14.03) and Mozgov (14.06). I eliminted Hayes in light of his not yet cleared heart condition, which turned to be a big mistake.

I went with Perkins who is apparently in the shape of his life, having lost weight during the offseason. Perkins in unspectacular fantasy wise but does rebound and block shoots which is all I wanted for. He's clearly a bench insurance in case some of my centers get injured.

153

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:43

for Great One
13.12 Gerald Henderson, G, Duke
14.01 Tyler Hansborough, F, UNC
Henderson getting a chance to play starter's minutes this year, and supposedly added a better 3 point shot to his repertoire.

Hansborough will just probably be the first guy I cut, but he has played ok when he gets the opportunity.

154

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:44

for Gescom
14.02 Jodie Meeks, SG, Phi
Super sleeper here but Jodie does shoot treys, and quite a few. In a time share with Turner, it remains to be seen who will produce best numbers. Entering his third season, I just hope he continues to improve year on year and bomb treys all season. Meeks is also a good passer and thief.

155

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:44

for Skinneej
14.03 Andris Biedrins, C, GS
He might be worth a roster spot, then again maybe he's the first to get dropped for the hot FA. He's only 25 still, but the last two seasons were not kind to him. Let's hope he can get back to the point where he was good for 10 and 10 a night and 1+ block per game.

156

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:45

14.04 Carl Landry, PF, NO
Starting PF on the Hornets. Late round flier for me. We’ll see.

157

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:45

for Toral
14.05 Jordan Hill, C, Hou
Looking at my roster, C seems where I am most likely to need a fill-in until Diaw acquires his Yahoo! C eligibility. Hill was playing well in the preseason and had been listed on a number of sleeper's list. Alas! Dalembert's destination was unknown at the time I made my list, and I rushed back from Christmas obligations to find that I was 15 minutes away from timing out, and made my pick without doing my due diligence. Looks like Hill is first man to go to the waiver wire.

158

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 17:47

for Swinganamiss
14.06 Timofey Mozgov, C DEN
Well, I timed out with this pick. I wasn't enamored with anything and someone offered a trade. I thought I had agreed to trade this pick for a previously drafted player and a later pick. So I didn't check in for a couple hours and of course my trading partner changed his mind or was confused with too many drafts or something. So, I scrambled to find something after a few people skipped by me. I guess Mozgov will start. Hopefully he be able to stay on the floow, as I read that he tends to get into foul trouble. Not too thrilled with this one, but will give him a few games to see how he looks--need C depth since Bynum is out for a bit. Would have maybe taken Okur had I been thorough to read all the news before I made this pick.

159

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:01

for reeb
14.07 Austin Daye, SF, Det
I wanted a young players with some upside for my last 2 picks. Daye fits that category. He can fill up the stat sheet if he gets minutes but just how many he will get remains to be seen.

160

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:02

for Jaydog
14.08 Ben Gordon, SG, CHI
As a diehard UConn fan, the thought of going an entire draft without picking a Husky was starting to wear on me. The strategy has worked some years (see Donyell Marshall in 2004 and Emeka Okafor in 2006) while failing miserably in others (see Hasheem Thabeet last year). Best case scenario, Gordon takes advantage of having little competition for minutes in Detroit and hits a lot of 3's for me, worst case scenario I drop him for Jeff Adrien when he gets called up from the D league.

162

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:04

for Deejay
14.09 Mike Dunleavy, SG/SF, Mil
He seems a good addition to put on my bench, and to take the wait and see approach.

Seems the minutes for SG/SF will be between Jax/Dunleavy/Delfino. How, that remains to be seen...

163

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:05

for Florian
14.10 O.J. Mayo, SG, Mem
Mayo was relagated to the bench last year. In the two seasons prior to that he averaged 17ppg, 3 boards, 3 assists, more than 1 steal and 1.7 3PTM. If he somehow manages to regain the starting job, he will hopefully be able to put up similar numbers again.

164

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:05

for Dave R
14.11 Taj Gibson PF Chi
Here we go, the news broke right before my selection that Brook Lopez suffered a broken foot, and early guesses are he's out 4-6 weeks, or possibly for the season. I needed help.

I also need help for Taj to become a factor on my team, in the form of one of the Bulls bigs going down. I'm not rooting for that to happen, but Noah has had foot issues, and Boozer, well, doesn't he always seem to miss time.

Gibson could help me immeasurably given regular minutes. As a backup, his averages for his 2 NBA season are 8 ppg , 6 Boards and 1.3 blocks. Regular minutes could lead to a significant uptick across the board

165

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:06

for Da Bomb
14.12 Josh Childress, SG/SF, PHO
15.01 Matt Barnes, SF, LAL

Just looked here at what starters were available and who had the best opportunity of producing early in the season. Have no hopes for either of these guys and there's a great chance they won't be on my roster Monday morning.

166

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:07

for Dave R
15.02 Ekpe Udoh, PF, GSW

Of course, 1/2 hour after I made this ( my last selection ), news came out that the Nets signed Okur, immediately scooped up by Florian with the next pick. Who knows what Mehmet will do for the Nets, but he's a great last round pick by Florian.

Be that as it may, I'm taking a flyer with Ekpe. Right now he's a back up in Golden State, but the Warriors are expecting a " breakout season " from him.

But I was desperate for some boards and blocks, and he can supply that, if he gets on the court. Besides, I love the name.

167

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:08

for Florian
15.03 Mehmet Okur, C, NJ
Unfortunately Brook Lopez has a stress fracture and is likely out for half the season (my condolences to Dave R). After the injury New Jersey traded for Okur to fill the starting center role. In the past when given the opportunity (and not injured) Okur has managed to produce 13 ppg, 7 rebounds and a 3PTM while post good percentage numbers. Reportedly he has looked good in training camp this year and I'm hopeful he can produce similar numbers this year.

168

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:09

for Deejay
15.04 Iman Shumpert, PG/SG, NYK
I've been hearing only good things about Iman. It's not out of realm he starts at one point.

He seems the fill up the stats easily. Only the FG% might suck, but that seems most of the time an issue with rookies.

So now I got Baron/Fields/Iman, one has to work no? ;)

169

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:10

for Jaydog
15.05 Bismack Biyombo, PF, Cha
When the news broke about Lopez, I went to find out who his backup was so I could target them with the last pick. I was surprised to see that Lopez didn't really have any reputable backup in NJ, so I then began going over trade scenario's to see who might be an option. I needed another center to put on my bench, so the timing seemed perfect. Okur was actually one of the guys I brainstormed as I knew he had a large, and expiring contract. Unfortunately, the timing gods did not work in my favor, and he was traded a few hours before my pick came up, and Florian used that fortuitous timing to grab him from me. Having to change my plans, I figured with my last pick I'd reach for the deepest sleeper I could find. Biyombo has the size to be a banger inside and there will hopefully be plenty of minutes for him in Charlotte. Charlotte traded a lot for the rights to his pick, so they must see some talent there, and hopefully some of that shines through. If not, oh well, it was my 15th pick and I'll be scrounging the waiver wire.

170

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:11

for reeb
15.06 Courtney Lee, SG, Hou
Lee will be a decent source of 3's and points as soon as Kevin Martin remembers he's Kevin Martin. Or I just cut him for a hot FA pick up.

171

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:12

for Swinganamiss
15.07 Richard Jefferson, SF SA
Almost took Jefferson at 14.06. Maybe I just remember him when he was at Arizona. Seemed really good back then. Anyway, not a high-upside that I would like, but will be servicable if I am in a pinch. He should start, which is about all I can ask for at this stage in the draft.

172

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:13

for Toral
15.08 Daniel Gibson, SG, Cle
SG is the position at which I'm shortest staffed. Gibson, in a timeshare/off the bench, can put up 12 ppg and a little bit of this and that and not hurt you anywhere. An adequate fill-in if necessary and could be a decent contributor if he got a bigger share of the job.

173

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:20

15.09 Chuck Hayes, C, Hou
Hayes was out for awhile with a diagnosed heart issue. Apparently, that was a false alarm, and with a clean bill of health, he just signed with the Kings and will be in the starting lineup for the team's opener. While starting for an NBA team does not mean he's worthy of starting for an RIHC team, I thought this made him a better bet than anyone else available at the time, even though the Kings' frontcourt seems like it might be a bit crowded.

Last year he averaged 8 boards and 8 pts per game, averaging 28 minutes. This year - we'll see. FG% was 52.7% last year; FT% 66.2, but he only shot a couple per game.

174

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:20

for Skinneej
15.10 Jose Barea, PG/SG, MIN
Had considered him earlier, but went other directions only to find him still available in the last round. The question is will he be 3rd in line behind Ridnour and Rubio, or will he see more time as the off guard backing up Wes Johnson? He's definitely the guy you want on the floor in the 4th quarter to create havoc, so perhaps he will get enough mins the first 3 quarters to make him viable.

175

Guru
ID: 330592710
Fri, Dec 23, 2011, 22:21

for Gescom
15.11 Louis Williams, PG, Phi
Lou completes my Philly backcourt with Holiday and Meeks. I like the idea of owning him as an insurance if some members of the backcourt go down. The good thing is this insurance already produces with 13 pts, 3-4 ast, one trey and a good FT%. I just hope he continues along the same lines.

176

Guru
ID: 330592710
Sun, Dec 25, 2011, 14:40

for Florian
15.12 Luke Ridnour, PG, Min
While there has been a lot of hype about Rubio, recent quotes from Rick Adelman indicate that Ridnour will be the starting PG to begin the year. I don't really expect Ridnour to continue to start all year (or even for very long), but I'm happy to have him start the first few games. We'll see how long he manages to hold on to the starting spot (and a spot on my roster).

Forum: hoopPage 13619Subject: RIHC 2011-12: Draft Rationales

Forum: hoop
Page 13619
Subject: RIHC 2011-12: Draft Rationales