Richard Jefferson to the Bucks

The New Jersey Nets and Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to sent Richard Jefferson to Milwaukee for Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons. Oddly enough, no draft picks were involved, despite the timing of the trade.

Jefferson is coming off his best scoring season yet, as he averaged 22.6 PPG last year. He'll be a considerable improvement at small forward, where the Bucks had previously relied on Simmons, Yi, and Desmond Mason. The Bucks can now play a starting lineup of Maurice Williams, Michael Redd, Jefferson, Charlie Villanueva, and Andrew Bogut. This could be an excellent scoring lineup, but it will give up a lot of points as well. None of the aforementioned players are particularly good defenders. Perhaps they add a defensive-minded player in the draft, and then there's always free agency.

New Jersey, meanwhile, continues its youth movement by dealing the veteran Jefferson for Yi and Simmons. Simmons has been a disappointment in Milwaukee since joining the team as a free agent, and Yi showed signs of greatness, but has a long way to go before he reaches his supposed potential. One of the most intriguing players of the 2007 draft, Yi resented the Bucks for drafting him despite his demands to go to a specific list of teams in larger markets. Now he gets his wish, going to the New York area. While he averaged 25 minutes a game last year, it was difficult to get him those minutes. The Bucks had to balance playing time between him and Villanueva and, as a result, both had to play out of position at times.

The Nets starting lineup should feature Devin Harris, Vince Carter, and Yi, but after that it becomes unclear. Nenad Krstic is a free agent and, now that Yi is in the fold, the Nets will be under less pressure to bring him back. Though no draft picks were involved, this has to affect both team's draft strategies. How the Nets' strategy changes depends on whether they see Yi as a small forward or a power forward. They could draft a small forward such as Joe Alexander (if he is still available), or they could grab the best available big man, possibly taking Brook Lopez, Kevin Love, or Anthony Randolph.

Meanwhile, the Bucks could opt for a big man now that they have Jefferson to take over at small forward. They could grab any of the three aforementioned PF/C's, or they might just take the best available player. It's unlikely that they would land a starting caliber player with the 8th pick (especially now that they have five legitimate starters), but they could use backups at almost every position.

This trade makes perfect sense for the Nets. They get a prospect with great potential and save some money in the process in exchange for a veteran who was not going to help them in the long run. In addition to saving money by dealing Jefferson, adding Yi ought to boost team revenue due to Yi's popularity in China.

For the Bucks, however, the trade isn't as easy to understand. Jefferson will certainly make them better, but does he make them a playoff team? Even if he does, it's hard to see them doing any better than a seven-seed. The Redd-Jefferson tandem is probably not enough to make the Bucks contenders. One has to think the main reason they made the trade is to unload Yi. It's no secret that he was unhappy with the Bucks for drafting him and the Bucks could not have been pleased with the rumors that Yi was 3-4 years older than advertised.

Ultimately, this trade probably impacts the draft more than it will next year's standings. The Bucks should be better, but they'll still be a bad defensive team and it's unclear whether Jefferson compliments the rest of the talent particularly well. The Nets will be worse, but that's not a problem for them, as they can add another high lottery pick to their impressive nucleus.

NBA Mock Draft 5.0

1st Round

1. Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose (Memphis) [PG, 6-3, 205 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Bulls will take a long look at Beasley, who would be a better fit here, but the general consensus in the league seems to be that Rose is the better prospect.

2. Miami Heat: Michael Beasley (Kansas State) [PF, 6-10, 235 lbs, 19 yrs] - From all indications, the Heat have no interest in Beasley as a player. However, with all the teams who do like Beasley, it's unlikely that they won't be able to find a trade partner if they take him here. Both Minnesota and Seattle are strong possibilities to trade for Beasley and send back their first round pick and perhaps an expiring contract or two.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves: O.J. Mayo (USC) [SG, 6-4, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - If the Heat really can't make a trade happen, they probably take Mayo at #2 and then the Timberwolves can draft Beasley here. However, with so many suitors, it's hard to see Miami being forced to draft Mayo second. Minnesota takes whoever is available between Mayo and Beasley.

4. Seattle Supersonics: Russell Westbrook (UCLA) [PG, 6-3, 189 lbs, 19 yrs] - It seems the Sonics has soured on Jerryd Bayless a bit and, like many teams, have taken a strong liking to Westbrook. Both are fairly similar players, though Westbrook has a reputation as a better and more aggressive defender. Seattle could also opt for a big man and take Brook Lopez.

5. Memphis Grizzlies: Brook Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 260 lbs, 20 yrs] - Memphis could use some more size, especially after the Darko-Kwame Brown experiments appear to be fruitless. Kevin Love is also an option, as would be a guard such as Eric Gordon, but Lopez seems the sensible choice.

6. New York Knicks: Jerryd Bayless (Arizona) [PG, 6-3, 190 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Knicks need a point guard above all, and although Bayless isn't exactly the next Steve Nash, he's the best point guard available here. D.J. Augustin is an option, but this is too high to draft him. There was talk the Knicks were going to trade David Lee to Memphis for the Grizzlies pick, in which case they could grab Bayless and Danilo Gallinari, but those talks appear dead now.

7. Los Angeles Clippers: Danilo Gallinari (Italy) [SF, 6-9, 212 lbs, 19 yrs] - Eric Gordon is a strong possibility as well, but Gallinari would make a lot of sense here. Supposedly Gallinari would not have stayed in the draft unless he had a top 10 guarantee (from a team he'd want to go to) and this seems like the most likely team to offer that guarantee.

8. Milwaukee Bucks: Eric Gordon (Indiana) [SG, 6-4, 215 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Bucks could opt for a forward such as Joe Alexander, but Gordon is one of the most talented prospects in the draft. In fact, he was considered a top 3 or 4 pick for a long time. That said, it's hard to see the Bucks passing up that talent at this point.

9. Charlotte Bobcats: Kevin Love (UCLA) [PF, 6-10, 275 lbs, 19 yrs] - Love seems like a natural fit for Larry Brown, and he would look good alongside Emeka Okafor. He and Okafor are opposites in many ways and could complement each other fairly well, even if it still leaves the frontcourt a bit undersized.

10. New Jersey Nets: Anthony Randolph (LSU) [PF, 6-11, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - Randolph has fallen out of favor with a lot of teams due to mediocre performances in workouts. John Hollinger's article that projected him as a terrible pro could not have helped. However, Randolph's value is in his upside. The Nets can take a chance on him and hope he becomes a valuable player in a few years.

11. Indiana Pacers: Joe Alexander (West Virginia) [SF, 6-8, 220 lbs, 21 yrs] - D.J. Augustin seemed like he had to be the pick here for a long time, but now that the Pacers have T.J. Ford, they can grab Alexander. Alexander has been great in workouts and projected as the best swingman using Hollinger's system, so the Pacers get a potential steal here.

12. Sacramento Kings: D.J. Augustin (Texas) [PG, 6-0, 180 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Kings also benefit from the Jermaine O'Neal trade, as it makes Augustin available. They need the point guard help and now they won't be tempted to reach for Mario Chalmers.

13. Portland Trailblazers: Brandon Rush (Kansas) [SG, 6-7, 205 lbs, 22 yrs] - Portland has been trying to shop this pick, but Rush is a good choice here whether they keep it or not. If they keep Rush, he should be able to contribute immediately. If not, they should find plenty of takers, particularly the Suns.

14. Golden State Warriors: Donte Greene (Syracuse) [SF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - Greene's combination of shooting, athleticism, and versatility make him a natural fit for Golden State. He is similar to a number of players they already have, but he should be able to find some playing time.

15. Phoenix Suns: Mario Chalmers (Kansas) [PG, 5-11, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Suns are hoping Rush falls to them here, but if not, Chalmers is a good option. They have needed a backup point guard for years now and he should be able to help, as well as knock down a few open threes when given the chance.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Darrell Arthur (Kansas) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Sixers could use help at shooting guard as well, but the best players available here are big men. A center such as Kosta Koufos is an option, but he too closely resembles Jason Smith for the Sixers to take him. Instead they help their power forward depth and add Arthur.

17. Indiana Pacers: Kosta Koufos (Ohio State) [C, 7-0, 265 lbs, 19 yrs] - Koufos is a nice pick here for the Pacers who need more size in the middle now that Jermaine O'Neal is gone. They could also consider a point guard, if Chalmers or Augustin is available, to back up Ford. If not, they have to take a big man and Koufos is the best one available.

18. Washington Wizards: JaVale McGee (Nevada) [C, 7-0, 237 lbs, 20 yrs] - McGee should make a nice backup for Brendan Haywood, as he is more of a scoring big man who was an effective three-point shooter in college. He is also an excellent shot-blocker and could help the Wizards' interior defense.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers: Marreese Speights (Florida) [C, 6-10, 245 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Cavs could opt for a shooting guard, such as Chris Douglas-Roberts, but they need help inside. Speights is raw, but he should give them some low-post scoring and much-needed depth at the size positions.

20. Charlotte Bobcats: Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) [C, 7-2, 275 lbs, 21 yrs] - In Hibbert, Charlotte gets an experienced big man who should have no problem playing significant minutes as a rookie. Hibbert can play alongside either Okafor or Love and let them move to their more natural power forward positions.

21. New Jersey Nets: Nicholas Batum (France) [SF, 6-8, 210 lbs, 19 yrs] - There are a number of good big men still on the board, but the Nets go after the upside of Batum, after drafting a center with their earlier first round pick. The Nets already have swingmen, but Batum could be brought along slowly, as the team is rebuilding anyway.

22. Orlando Magic: DeAndre Jordan (Texas A&M) [C, 7-0, 255 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Magic could go for a shooting guard, such as Courtney Lee, but it's hard to pass up on Jordan's talent at this point. Considering they had to give Marcin Gortat minutes in the playoffs, they could use another body in the middle.

23. Utah Jazz: Robin Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 245 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Jazz need to work on their interior defense and shot-blocking and those happen to be Robin Lopez's specialties. The Jazz will probably opt for the best big man available here, though it's hard to imagine anyone else being as good a fit as the other Lopez.

24. Seattle Supersonics: Alexis Ajinca (France) [PF, 7-1, 240 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Sonics have taken plenty of big men with "upside" in recent years, but with a roster loaded with young talent, taking a player like Ajinca who could stay overseas for a year or two if necessary would be sensible decision. Ajinca has gained a lot of momentum recently and this could even be too low for him. The Sonics would have to bite if he's available.

25. Houston Rockets: Jason Thompson (Rider) [PF, 6-11, 250 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Rockets could use another big man to back up Yao Ming. Sure, Mutombo is signed on for another year, but he can't back up Yao forever.

26. San Antonio Spurs: Courtney Lee (Western Kentucky) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Spurs need scoring above all and Lee should be able to step in and at least be an upgrade over the aging Brent Barry. They could also opt for a foreign player and stash him abroad, in typical Spurs fashion, but the team needs help now if they want to compete for another title with their aging roster.

27. Portland Trailblazers: Ante Tomic (Croatia) [C, 7-2, 237 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Blazers certainly don't need more rookies on their roster right now, so the only conceivable reason they trade for this pick is to draft an international player. Tomic makes sense here, as would Serge Ibaka.

28. Memphis Grizzlies: Chris Douglas-Roberts (Memphis) [SG, 6-6, 195 lbs, 21 yrs] - This is already a pretty big fall for Douglas-Roberts and it's hard to see Memphis passing on him here. He should be able to step in and help them right away as a backup shooting guard.

29. Detroit Pistons: Bill Walker (Kansas State) [SF, 6-6, 235 lbs, 20 yrs] - Detroit gambles on Walker's knees holding up. If they do, he could be a steal this late in the draft. At #29, it's a good move.

30. Boston Celtics: J.J. Hickson (NC State) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 19 yrs] - Boston doesn't need another power forward, but there are no players here who fill a particular need for the Celtics, so they likely either take the best available player or draft a forward like Hickson and trade the pick.

2nd Round

31. Minnesota Timberwolves: D.J. White (Indiana) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 21 yrs] - White doesn't have great NBA potential, but Minnesota needs bodies right now. White should be able to give them decent production if he gets playing time.

32. Seattle Supersonics: Jamont Gordon (Mississippi State) [SG, 6-4, 225 lbs, 21 yrs] - Gordon gives the Sonics a little more scoring, as an athletic combo guard. The Sonics have three more picks coming, so odds are at least one of these will be traded.

33. Portland Trailblazers: Serge Ibaka (Congo) [PF, 6-10, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - Ibaka is probably not ready for the NBA yet, but he could stay overseas for a few years. The Blazers don't have room for prospects right now anyway.

34. Minnesota Timberwolves: Omer Asik (Turkey) [C, 6-11, 230 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's very raw, but his size and athleticism make him an appealing prospect.

35. Los Angeles Clippers: Nathan Jawai (Australia) [PF, 6-10, 270 lbs, 21 yrs] - Jawai provides some depth at power forward, which could prove essential should Elton Brand leave via free agency.

36. Portland Trailblazers: Ryan Anderson (California) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - Anderson has a great jump shot that extends to NBA three-point range, and could be a good fit alongside Greg Oden.

37. Milwaukee Bucks: Joey Dorsey (Memphis) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 22 yrs] - Dorsey's pro future is questionable, but many scouts see him as a future Ben Wallace-type player. Milwaukee could use his defensive presence in the middle.

38. Charlotte Bobcats: Davon Jefferson (USC) [SF, 6-8, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - He needs to work on his fundamentals, but he has great overall potential and could help Charlotte down the road.

39. Chicago Bulls: Trent Plaisted (BYU) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Bulls could use some size, especially after Aaron Gray has yet to prove he can be a useful NBA player. Plaisted has a lot more upside than Gray, even if his college career was fairly erratic.

40. New Jersey Nets: Nikola Pekovic (Serbia) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Nets may not have room for three rookies and they'd have the option of leaving Pekovic in Europe for a year or two.

41. Indiana Pacers: Richard Hendrix (Alabama) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's looked good in Orlando so far. While he's a bit undersized, he's worth a look at this point.

42. Sacramento Kings: Gary Forbes (Massachusetts) [SF, 6-7, 220 lbs, 23 yrs] - He had an excellent pre-draft camp in Orlando and has established himself as a second round pick.

43. Seattle Supersonics: Josh Duncan (Xavier) [SF, 6-8, 225 lbs, 22 yrs] - He'll fight for a spot during Summer League and training camp. No guarantees, but he's a solid all-around player who deserves a look.

44. Golden State Warriors: Shan Foster (Vanderbilt) [SG, 6-6, 205 lbs, 21 yrs] - Foster is one of the top three-point shooters in the draft and he should be able to find a niche in Don Nelson's offense.

45. Sacramento Kings: Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (UCLA) [SF, 6-7, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - Some NBA scouts see Mbah a Moute as a Bruce Bowen-type defender. He doesn't have much of an offensive game, but the Kings could use his defensive prowess.

46. Utah Jazz: Malik Hairston (Oregon) [SG, 6-6, 200 lbs, 21 yrs] - Hairston is a good all-around shooting guard who could get a look off the bench.

47. San Antonio Spurs: Kyle Weaver (Washington State) [SG, 6-6, 185 lbs, 22 yrs] - A great defender with a high basketball IQ. He should fit right in with the Spurs.

48. Washington Wizards: Mike Taylor (Iowa State) [PG, 6-2, 165 lbs, 22 yrs] - With Gilbert Arenas a free agent, the Wizards pick up an insurance policy at point guard.

49. Phoenix Suns: C.J. Giles (Oregon State) [C, 6-11, 235 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Suns add a shot-blocking center to improve their defense.

50. Seattle Supersonics: Keith Brumbaugh (Hillsborough CC) [SF, 6-10, 215 lbs, 22 yrs] - An outstanding talent who has been hurt by poor off-court decisions. The Sonics can gamble on him and let him develop int he D-League.

51. Dallas Mavericks: J.R. Giddens (New Mexico) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 23 yrs] - Dallas takes a shooting guard who should excel in Jason Kidd's fast-paced offense.

52. Miami Heat: David Padgett (Louisville) [C, 6-11, 240 lbs, 23 yrs] - Miami adds a big man with an excellent basketball IQ. There are questions as to whether or not he can stay healthy, but he could develop into a useful player.

53. Utah Jazz: Semih Erden (Turkey) [C, 7-1, 240 lbs, 21 yrs] - Erden brings another Turkish player to Utah's roster. He's still a bit of a project and would probably stay in Turkey for the time being.

54. Houston Rockets: Bryce Taylor (Oregon) [SG, 6-5, 205 lbs, 21 yrs] - Taylor hasn't been as dominant in college as his talent suggests he should have been, but he's a worthy gamble in the second round.

55. Portland Trailblazers: Sasha Kaun (Kansas) [C, 6-11, 250 lbs, 23 yrs] - Kaun doesn't have the potential to be much more than a backup center, but he already has an NBA body and good experience at the college level.

56. Seattle Supersonics: George Hill (Indianapolis) [PG, 6-2, 180 lbs, 22 yrs] - Hill is more of a shooting guard in a point guard's body, but his scoring ability could get him drafted in the late second round.

57. San Antonio Spurs: Pat Calathes (St. Joseph's) [SF, 6-10, 210 lbs, 22 yrs] - This point-forward with a high basketball IQ should be a good fit in San Antonio.

58. Los Angeles Lakers: Othello Hunter (Ohio State) [PF, 6-8, 220 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Lakers add a shot-blocking forward to improve their interior defense.

59. Detroit Pistons: Richard Roby (Colorado) [SG, 6-5, 210 lbs, 22 yrs] - Roby was at one time seen as a future first round pick, but hasn't improved much over his college career. He had a good senior year and his stock could be suffering due to unfair expectations.

60. Boston Celtics: Damjan Rudez (Croatia) [SF, 6-10, 200 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Celtics grab an international player with plenty of upside. Boston can afford to wait on his talent, as they don't have much room for him right now.

Jermaine O'Neal Traded to Raptors

According to ESPN.com, the Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers have agreed to a trade that would send Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto in exchange for T.J. Ford, Rasho Nesterovic, and the 17th overall pick in tomorrow's draft.

This deal makes a lot of sense for both teams. The Pacers needed a point guard and it was unclear whether they'd be able to get a good one in the draft. They most likely would have had to settle for D.J. Augustin or Mario Chalmers, neither of whom is a marked upgrade over current point guard Jamaal Tinsley. Ford is a considerable improvement and although his injury history is concerning, O'Neal has had plenty of trouble staying on the court himself. Nesterovic also comes over after a productive 2007-08 season (well, productive by his standards anyway). He shined down the stretch, scoring 12.4 PPG and pulling down 6.1 RPG after the All-Star break. If nothing else, he should be a solid placeholder for the Pacers while they look for a long-term replacement.

As mentioned, O'Neal's has had trouble staying healthy in recent years, but if he can stay on the court, he'll be an excellent fit in Toronto. He only played in 42 games last year and hasn't played in 70 games since 2003-04, but, before last year, he was very productive when healthy. In 2006-07, he averaged 19.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. O'Neal's inside scoring and rebounding would be a major boon to the Raptors, who are lacking in that department. Chris Bosh is the closest thing they have to a low-post player, but he has more of a face-up game.

More important to Toronto than the scoring is the defense and rebounding that O'Neal brings. The Raptors were out-rebounded by their opponents last year. Bosh pulled down 8.7 RPG, but the next highest was then-rookie Jamario Moon. Shot-blocking was also a weakness, as Moon and Bosh were the only Raptors to average 1 block per game or better. O'Neal's greatest strength is his defense, both as an on-the-ball defender and a weakside shot-blocker. Defense has not been Toronto's strong point in recent years, but O'Neal's presence in the middle will be a big help.

Of course, that assumes that O'Neal is healthy, which is far from certain. However, even if O'Neal misses a significant portion of the season again, this trade should still pay dividends as it is effectively addition by subtraction. Ford is a talented player, but Jose Calderon clearly outperformed him last year and can play starter's minutes with Ford gone. Having that draft pick would help, but the Raptors are looking to make a playoff run and it's unlikely that, at 17, they would be able to get an immediate contributor.

Meanwhile, the Pacers were already in rebuilding mode and cemented that notion by dealing away their former All-Star. They now have more flexibility with the 11th pick, as they no longer need a point guard. They could either opt for a big man, perhaps someone who they feel could replace some of O'Neal's production, or just take the best player on the board. Not to mention, with two first round picks, they could package them and perhaps Tinsley and try to trade up. They have a lot of options, now that O'Neal is finally off their hands. To their credit, they actually got some value for him. Nicely done.

Fun Notes around the MLB

• Marcus Thames, 3B for the Detroit Tigers, is hitting .221 over his last eleven games. In those games, he has 8 hits, all of them for home runs. He also has 11 strikeouts.
  


• In the eighth inning in last night's Blue Jays game, Toronto recorded two walks, a single, a double, and a home run. They scored one run. In their past six games, they've scored 14 runs, hitting a collective .195.
  


• Jerry Manuel is bringing a new attitude to New York, quoted as saying about Jose Reyes' discipline problems on the field: "I told him the next time he does that, I’m going to get my blade out and cut him right on the field. I’m a gangsta."
  


• Barry Zito sucks

NBA Mock Draft 4.0

1st Round

1. Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose (Memphis) [PG, 6-3, 205 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Bulls will take a long look at Beasley, who would be a better fit here, but the general consensus in the league seems to be that Rose is the better prospect.

2. Miami Heat: O.J. Mayo (USC) [SG, 6-4, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - After all the hype it's hard to imagine the Heat passing up on Beasley, especially when they could use a low-post scorer, but Pat Riley is not a fan, from all accounts, and his interest in Rose, plus Mayo's upcoming workout in Miami, makes acquiring backcourt help for Wade all the more likely. A trade is also a strong possibility if Rose is unavailable at #2.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves: Michael Beasley (Kansas State) [PF, 6-10, 235 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Beasley-Al Jefferson combination could give opponents fits, even if it leaves much to be desired on defense. Minnesota has it pretty easy, as they'll take whoever is available between Beasley and Mayo.

4. Seattle Supersonics: Jerryd Bayless (Arizona) [PG, 6-3, 190 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Sonics have been set on Bayless for a while. He's the consensus 4th best prospect and it's hard to see that changing now. The Knicks sure wish it would change as they'd love to grab Bayless.

5. Memphis Grizzlies: Anthony Randolph (LSU) [PF, 6-11, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - The Grizzlies have plenty of needs to fill and they have a lot of work to do before they are ready to compete, so taking the raw, but talented Randolph makes a lot of sense here. He's got tremendous upside and Memphis can afford to give him some time to develop.

6. New York Knicks: Russell Westbrook (UCLA) [PG, 6-3, 189 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Knicks need a point guard above all and even though #6 is a bit high for Westbrook or Augustin, they could well reach and grab Westbrook here. He worked out with them recently (though so did a ton of prospects) and impressed team officials. Augustin has a workout scheduled as well, but for now it's looking like Westbrook.

7. Los Angeles Clippers: Danilo Gallinari (Italy) [SF, 6-9, 212 lbs, 19 yrs] - Eric Gordon is a strong possibility as well, but Gallinari would make a lot of sense here. Supposedly Gallinari would not have stayed in the draft unless he had a top 10 guarantee (from a team he'd want to go to) and this seems like the most likely team to offer that guarantee.

8. Milwaukee Bucks: Eric Gordon (Indiana) [SG, 6-4, 215 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Bucks could opt for a forward such as Joe Alexander, but Gordon is one of the most talented prospects in the draft. In fact, he was considered a top 3 or 4 pick for a long time. That said, it's hard to see the Bucks passing up that talent at this point.

9. Charlotte Bobcats: Kevin Love (UCLA) [PF, 6-10, 275 lbs, 19 yrs] - Love seems like a natural fit for Larry Brown, and he would look good alongside Emeka Okafor. Brook Lopez is an option, the main appeal being his size, but Love's stock has risen quite a bit since the end of the college season.

10. New Jersey Nets: Brook Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 260 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Nets need a good big man and would have to be pleased if Lopez were to become available this late. They could instead go after a player with more upside, but Lopez is at least a safe pick to be a contributor and at #10, that's a good deal.

11. Indiana Pacers: D.J. Augustin (Texas) [PG, 6-0, 180 lbs, 20 yrs] - Point guard is the biggest area of need for the Pacers and odds are they take whichever of Augustin or Westbrook is available. If both are there, they'll have a tough decision on their hands, but that would be a good problem to have.

12. Sacramento Kings: Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) [C, 7-2, 275 lbs, 21 yrs] - A point guard would be more helpful, but the best ones will likely be off the board at this point. Instead, the Kings could make a somewhat surprising move and draft Hibbert here. According to Chad Ford, they had Hibbert ranked very highly last year before he withdrew from the draft and he's a possibility here, despite their drafting of Spencer Hawes last year.

13. Portland Trailblazers: Joe Alexander (West Virginia) [SF, 6-8, 220 lbs, 21 yrs] - Portland has plenty of young players already, so there's a good chance they trade the pick. Alexander is the most likely to go in this spot, as his stock has really risen lately. Donte Greene and Brandon Rush are also possibilities.

14. Golden State Warriors: Donte Greene (Syracuse) [SF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - Greene's combination of shooting, athleticism, and versatility make him a natural fit for Golden State. He is similar to a number of players they already have, but he should be able to find some playing time.

15. Phoenix Suns: Brandon Rush (Kansas) [SG, 6-7, 205 lbs, 22 yrs] - Rush is the logical pick here. He's one of the more experienced players in the draft and could step in and contribute immediately. His three-point shooting and athleticism makes him a good fit for the Suns offense and his NBA-readiness means that he could help the Suns make a title run this year. If Rush or another similarly NBA-ready player is not available, the Suns could trade the pick.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Marreese Speights (Florida) [C, 6-10, 245 lbs, 19 yrs] - Rush is an option here if he's still available. If not, the Sixers probably opt for a big man. Speights is a capable low-post scorer with some upside, who could help them. They could also go for DeAndre Jordan or Darrell Arthur.

17. Toronto Raptors: Kosta Koufos (Ohio State) [C, 7-0, 265 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Raptors need help at center and Koufos would seem an excellent fit, with his size, skill, and shooting ability. Not to mention, the Raptors add another European player to their already-diverse roster.

18. Washington Wizards: JaVale McGee (Nevada) [C, 7-0, 237 lbs, 20 yrs] - McGee should make a nice backup for Brendan Haywood, as he is more of a scoring big man who was an effective three-point shooter in college. He is also an excellent shot-blocker and could help the Wizards' interior defense.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers: Darrell Arthur (Kansas) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Cavs need help in a lot of areas, notably shooting guard, but Arthur could be a nice pick here. He'd give them a power forward with some scoring ability. He's got a nice mid-range shooting game and that could make him a nice fit alongside LeBron James.

20. Denver Nuggets: Chris Douglas-Roberts (Memphis) [SG, 6-6, 195 lbs, 21 yrs] - Douglas-Roberts would be a good fit here. He could provide scoring and strong perimeter defense and he has the speed and athleticism to run with the fast-paced Nuggets.

21. New Jersey Nets: Nicholas Batum (France) [SF, 6-8, 210 lbs, 19 yrs] - There are a number of good big men still on the board, but the Nets go after the upside of Batum, after drafting a center with their earlier first round pick. The Nets already have swingmen, but Batum could be brought along slowly, as the team is rebuilding anyway.

22. Orlando Magic: DeAndre Jordan (Texas A&M) [C, 7-0, 255 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Magic could go for a shooting guard, such as Courtney Lee, but it's hard to pass up on Jordan's talent at this point. Considering they had to give Marcin Gortat minutes in the playoffs, they could use another body in the middle.

23. Utah Jazz: Robin Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 245 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Jazz need to work on their interior defense and shot-blocking and those happen to be Robin Lopez's specialties. The Jazz will probably opt for the best big man available here, though it's hard to imagine anyone else being as good a fit as the other Lopez.

24. Seattle Supersonics: Alexis Ajinca (France) [PF, 7-1, 240 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Sonics have taken plenty of big men with "upside" in recent years, but with a roster loaded with young talent, taking a player like Ajinca who could stay overseas for a year or two if necessary would be sensible decision. Ajinca has gained a lot of momentum recently and this could even be too low for him. The Sonics would have to bite if he's available.

25. Houston Rockets: Jason Thompson (Rider) [PF, 6-11, 250 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Rockets could use another big man to back up Yao Ming. Sure, Mutombo is signed on for another year, but he can't back up Yao forever.

26. San Antonio Spurs: Courtney Lee (Western Kentucky) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Spurs need scoring above all and Lee should be able to step in and at least be an upgrade over the aging Brent Barry. They could also opt for a foreign player and stash him abroad, in typical Spurs fashion, but the team needs help now if they want to compete for another title with their aging roster.

27. New Orleans Hornets: J.J. Hickson (NC State) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 19 yrs] - Hickson gives the Hornets some much-needed size. His athleticism and speed should make him a good fit running the floor with Chris Paul.

28. Memphis Grizzlies: Bill Walker (Kansas State) [SF, 6-6, 235 lbs, 20 yrs] - Walker suffered a minor knee injury and, because of his history, some teams have been scared off. However, this late in the draft, Memphis would do well to gamble on Walker's potential.

29. Detroit Pistons: D.J. White (Indiana) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Pistons add a big man who should provide solid rebounding and some mid-range shooting. There is no particular area of need for Detroit but after taking three guards in last year's draft, it's hard to imagine they'd take another one here.

30. Boston Celtics: Ante Tomic (Croatia) [C, 7-2, 237 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Celtics don't really have room for a young prospect. If anything, they'll be looking to add more veterans to help defend their title. Tomic could be left in Europe for the time being and might be able to help Boston down the road, though they could bring him over now if they need the help.

2nd Round

31. Minnesota Timberwolves: Mario Chalmers (Kansas) [PG, 5-11, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - This does seem a little late for Chalmers, but he has not made a major splash since his heroics for Kansas in the title game. If he doesn't go in the late first round, there's a good chance Minnesota takes him here.

32. Seattle Supersonics: Jamont Gordon (Mississippi State) [SG, 6-4, 225 lbs, 21 yrs] - Gordon gives the Sonics a little more scoring, as an athletic combo guard. The Sonics have three more picks coming, so odds are at least one of these will be traded.

33. Portland Trailblazers: Serge Ibaka (Congo) [PF, 6-10, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - Ibaka is probably not ready for the NBA yet, but he could stay overseas for a few years. The Blazers don't have room for prospects right now anyway.

34. Minnesota Timberwolves: Omer Asik (Turkey) [C, 6-11, 230 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's very raw, but his size and athleticism make him an appealing prospect.

35. Los Angeles Clippers: Nathan Jawai (Australia) [PF, 6-10, 270 lbs, 21 yrs] - Jawai provides some depth at power forward, which could prove essential should Elton Brand leave via free agency.

36. Portland Trailblazers: Ryan Anderson (California) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - Anderson has a great jump shot that extends to NBA three-point range, and could be a good fit alongside Greg Oden.

37. Milwaukee Bucks: Joey Dorsey (Memphis) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 22 yrs] - Dorsey's pro future is questionable, but many scouts see him as a future Ben Wallace-type player. Milwaukee could use his defensive presence in the middle.

38. Charlotte Bobcats: Davon Jefferson (USC) [SF, 6-8, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - He needs to work on his fundamentals, but he has great overall potential and could help Charlotte down the road.

39. Chicago Bulls: Trent Plaisted (BYU) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Bulls could use some size, especially after Aaron Gray has yet to prove he can be a useful NBA player. Plaisted has a lot more upside than Gray, even if his college career was fairly erratic.

40. New Jersey Nets: Nikola Pekovic (Serbia) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Nets may not have room for three rookies and they'd have the option of leaving Pekovic in Europe for a year or two.

41. Indiana Pacers: Richard Hendrix (Alabama) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's looked good in Orlando so far. While he's a bit undersized, he's worth a look at this point.

42. Sacramento Kings: Gary Forbes (Massachusetts) [SF, 6-7, 220 lbs, 23 yrs] - He had an excellent pre-draft camp in Orlando and has established himself as a second round pick.

43. Seattle Supersonics: Josh Duncan (Xavier) [SF, 6-8, 225 lbs, 22 yrs] - He'll fight for a spot during Summer League and training camp. No guarantees, but he's a solid all-around player who deserves a look.

44. Golden State Warriors: Shan Foster (Vanderbilt) [SG, 6-6, 205 lbs, 21 yrs] - Foster is one of the top three-point shooters in the draft and he should be able to find a niche in Don Nelson's offense.

45. Sacramento Kings: Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (UCLA) [SF, 6-7, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - Some NBA scouts see Mbah a Moute as a Bruce Bowen-type defender. He doesn't have much of an offensive game, but the Kings could use his defensive prowess.

46. Utah Jazz: Malik Hairston (Oregon) [SG, 6-6, 200 lbs, 21 yrs] - Hairston is a good all-around shooting guard who could get a look off the bench.

47. San Antonio Spurs: Kyle Weaver (Washington State) [SG, 6-6, 185 lbs, 22 yrs] - A great defender with a high basketball IQ. He should fit right in with the Spurs.

48. Washington Wizards: Mike Taylor (Iowa State) [PG, 6-2, 165 lbs, 22 yrs] - With Gilbert Arenas a free agent, the Wizards pick up an insurance policy at point guard.

49. Phoenix Suns: C.J. Giles (Oregon State) [C, 6-11, 235 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Suns add a shot-blocking center to improve their defense.

50. Seattle Supersonics: Keith Brumbaugh (Hillsborough CC) [SF, 6-10, 215 lbs, 22 yrs] - An outstanding talent who has been hurt by poor off-court decisions. The Sonics can gamble on him and let him develop int he D-League.

51. Dallas Mavericks: J.R. Giddens (New Mexico) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 23 yrs] - Dallas takes a shooting guard who should excel in Jason Kidd's fast-paced offense.

52. Miami Heat: David Padgett (Louisville) [C, 6-11, 240 lbs, 23 yrs] - Miami adds a big man with an excellent basketball IQ. There are questions as to whether or not he can stay healthy, but he could develop into a useful player.

53. Utah Jazz: Semih Erden (Turkey) [C, 7-1, 240 lbs, 21 yrs] - Erden brings another Turkish player to Utah's roster. He's still a bit of a project and would probably stay in Turkey for the time being.

54. Houston Rockets: Bryce Taylor (Oregon) [SG, 6-5, 205 lbs, 21 yrs] - Taylor hasn't been as dominant in college as his talent suggests he should have been, but he's a worthy gamble in the second round.

55. Portland Trailblazers: Sasha Kaun (Kansas) [C, 6-11, 250 lbs, 23 yrs] - Kaun doesn't have the potential to be much more than a backup center, but he already has an NBA body and good experience at the college level.

56. Seattle Supersonics: George Hill (Indianapolis) [PG, 6-2, 180 lbs, 22 yrs] - Hill is more of a shooting guard in a point guard's body, but his scoring ability could get him drafted in the late second round.

57. San Antonio Spurs: Pat Calathes (St. Joseph's) [SF, 6-10, 210 lbs, 22 yrs] - This point-forward with a high basketball IQ should be a good fit in San Antonio.

58. Los Angeles Lakers: Othello Hunter (Ohio State) [PF, 6-8, 220 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Lakers add a shot-blocking forward to improve their interior defense.

59. Detroit Pistons: Richard Roby (Colorado) [SG, 6-5, 210 lbs, 22 yrs] - Roby was at one time seen as a future first round pick, but hasn't improved much over his college career. He had a good senior year and his stock could be suffering due to unfair expectations.

60. Boston Celtics: Patrick Ewing Jr. (Georgetown) [SF, 6-7, 224 lbs, 24 yrs] - He was a disappointment at Georgetown, but has performed very well at pre-draft camps and the combine. It's possible Georgetown was just a bad fit for him.

Chemistry? Yeah...chemistry?

When a professional sports team is playing well, almost always you hear about how the team has great chemistry. Conversely, when a given team is performing below expectations, you'll always hear about how they're not playing as a team, and how they lack chemistry. So it goes, if you fill your team with good chemistry guys, you will win, and if you fill your team with malcontents, you're destined for a high draft pick.

This argument holds some water, especially in football, where every piece is dependent upon another moving cog, and only when you're a well-oiled machine can you perform at the highest level.

But in baseball? What a bunch of bull-hooey.

Baseball is nominally a team sport, but in fact the game is built, more so than any other team sport, on an individual matchup: pitcher vs. hitter. It is all based on this mano a mano showdown. "Chemistry" will not make a splitter drop an extra inch, or turn a popup into a line drive. (Never mind the fact that chemistry, while entirely positive in this context, has no such positive connotation in real life. Afterall, sometimes in chemistry, things blow up.)

Right now, if you turned on Mike and the Maddog on WFAN (They're talkin' sports, goin' at it as hard as they can!), you will listen to 5 1/2 hours of disgruntled Mets fans waxing poetic about how the New York Mets "have no chemistry" and how they "aren't a real team." Tell us, Mets fans; what exactly does playing like a team mean? I'll tell you. It means a pitcher getting people out, and hitters stringing a couple baseknocks together. Then, after they score, they all smile and give each other high fives and Cleveland Steamers or something.

The problem is that people are assuming a causal relationship one way (chemistry-->winning) when the truth is the opposite (winning--->Cleveland Steamers). If the Mets reel off 7 in a row, or 15 of 20, we will be inundated with story after story about how the Mets are playing like a team - how they're all smiling in the dugout etc. The same thing happened with the Yankees a few years ago, when every day Joe Torre was forced to answer the inane question "Are you having fun, Joe?" I cut beat reporters a little slack; it's hard to file interesting stories on a given team 180 days a year that are separate from game results. But the next time some reporter asks Willie Randolph (or Joe Girardi, for that matter) "What's wrong with this team's chemistry, and how can you turn it around?" I hope the answer is but one word:

"Winning."

Has the World Gone Mad?

Live blogging these finals, with 2 or so minutes left, I just watched three straight possessions where shots were taken, in order, by Vujacic, Eddie House, and Vujacic. Vujacic nailed a wide open 3 from the corner on the last of those, after Boston decided they were playing Cleveland again, and doubled Kobe 38 feet from the basket. Hey Celtics: Every one of Kobe's teammates on the floor right now can make a 20 footer. Every one. There is a difference between Lamar Odom and Ben Wallace. God, so many idiots. In fact:

I hereby announce my candidacy for a head coaching position in the NBA. Though I have no experience, knowledge, unique insight, or connections, I could still coach circles around Doc Rivers. I am aware that my candidacy is weakened by the fact that I am not a part of the Conspiracy of Mikes, but give the right circumstances, I could be persuaded to join. As I typed this paragraph, Eddie House took three more shots in the final minute. Where is Paul Pierce? Where is Ray Allen? KG has the physical tools to dominate in the post this series, and instead, he's getting the ball at the top of the key, 25 feet from the basket.

Embarrassing.

This NBA Finals is a Joke

So we here at PSB would normally post about the NBA Finals, but the games so far have just been too ridiculous and infuriating to write about. Instead, we'll point out that Leon Powe had 11 free throw attempts in the first 14 minutes, while the Lakers had 2 in the first 24. Also, Paul Pierce cries like he's on Normandy Beach and gets carried off in a wheelchair, and six minutes later returns to play a game and a half without a limp.

So instead of writing about that crap, let's all enjoy this amusing picture:

NBA Mock Draft 3.0

1st Round

1. Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose (Memphis) [PG, 6-3, 205 lbs, 19 yrs] - Beasley would fill more of a need, but with so many questions about his character the Bulls seem to prefer Rose here. This pick only makes sense if they deal Kirk Hinrich, but they should be able to find a taker, and perhaps land a big man in the process.

2. Miami Heat: O.J. Mayo (USC) [SG, 6-4, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - This assumes that Miami keeps the pick. There have been a lot of rumors that they would like to trade it, especially if Rose is off the board. While Mayo is not an ideal fit, he could combine with Wade to make an explosive backcourt.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves: Michael Beasley (Kansas State) [PF, 6-10, 235 lbs, 19 yrs] - Minnesota would have to be thrilled if the draft played out this way, as they would land arguably the top player in the draft. Beasley's perimeter scoring would be a great compliment to Al Jefferson's post play.

4. Seattle Supersonics: Jerryd Bayless (Arizona) [PG, 6-3, 190 lbs, 19 yrs] - Bayless would improve Seattle's backcourt and from all reports they are very interested in him. Mayo is a strong possibility if he is available, but even if he is they might select Bayless anyway.

5. Memphis Grizzlies: Anthony Randolph (LSU) [PF, 6-11, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - Memphis is lacking in size more than anything else, as the Darko experiment proved unsuccessful. They could take Eric Gordon here as well, but more likely they opt for the big man and select Randolph.

6. New York Knicks: D.J. Augustin (Texas) [PG, 6-0, 180 lbs, 20 yrs] - This is decidedly a reach, but the Knicks badly need a point guard and Augustin is the best pure point in the draft, after Rose. Westbrook is also an option, or they could draft for talent over need and take Gordon or Gallinari. That said, Augustin would fit into D'Antoni's style better than anyone left on the board, so he is a logical pick here.

7. Los Angeles Clippers: Eric Gordon (Indiana) [SG, 6-4, 215 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Clippers don't have much in the way of shooting guards right now and Gordon's potential is too much to pass up on. They'll take long looks at Gallinari and PGs Russell Westbrook and D.J. Augustin, but landing Gordon this late could be a steal.

8. Milwaukee Bucks: Danilo Gallinari (Italy) [SF, 6-9, 212 lbs, 19 yrs] - While Gallinari doesn't fill a particular need, he is the best player on the board at this point. He could rotate in as SF/PF with Yi Jianlian and Charlie Villanueva, giving the Bucks three versatile forwards with excellent long-term potential.

9. Charlotte Bobcats: Brook Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 260 lbs, 20 yrs] - Kevin Love is a strong possibility, but it would be very difficult for the Bobcats to pass up on Lopez here. Love would be a good fit, but Lopez's size makes him a great fit and would allow Charlotte to move Emeka Okafor to power forward.

10. New Jersey Nets: DeAndre Jordan (Texas A&M) [C, 7-0, 255 lbs, 20 yrs] - Jordan has phenomenal size and athleticism and the only knock on him is his questionable motor. It would be hard for the Nets to pass up on such a talent, especially with the best players on the board being point guards; a position at which the Nets are loaded.

11. Indiana Pacers: Russell Westbrook (UCLA) [PG, 6-3, 189 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Pacers are in dire need of a point guard, so taking Westbrook here is a no-brainer. Augustin would also draw strong consideration if available.

12. Sacramento Kings: Darrell Arthur (Kansas) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Kings need a point guard above all, but if Westbrook and Augustin are already gone, they could take Arthur. They could use the help at power forward and Arthur should be able to provide excellent defense and a sold mid-range game.

13. Portland Trailblazers: Donte Greene (Syracuse) [SF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - While it's unclear whether Greene would play the 3 or the 4, he is a very athletic wingman with three-point range on his jumper who could be another key piece for the up-and-coming Blazers. Point guard is more of an area of need, and there's no doubt they'd grab Augustin or Westbrook if one is available, but there are no PGs at this point who wouldn't be major reaches at #13.

14. Golden State Warriors: Kevin Love (UCLA) [PF, 6-10, 275 lbs, 19 yrs] - Love's size would be a major asset to Golden State, and his shooting ability would fit in well with Don Nelson's system. The Warriors might prefer someone a bit more athletic, but it would be hard to pass up on Love this late.

15. Phoenix Suns: Brandon Rush (Kansas) [SG, 6-7, 205 lbs, 22 yrs] - If the Suns are going to make a title run, they have to do it now, making Rush the logical pick. As a 22-year old with experience playing under pressure, plus strong perimeter shooting and defense, he should be able to contribute immediately to a Suns playoff run. Or I suppose they could trade the pick for cash...again.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Marreese Speights (Florida) [C, 6-10, 245 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Sixers are in dire need of three-point shooting, but with Rush taken, their best bet is to improve their depth at center and acquire a low-post scorer. Of course, if they believe they can sign Elton Brand or they trade for a big man, they probably address their shooting guard needs here.

17. Toronto Raptors: Kosta Koufos (Ohio State) [C, 7-0, 265 lbs, 19 yrs] - The Raptors need help at center and Koufos would seem an excellent fit, with his size, skill, and shooting ability. Not to mention, the Raptors add another European player to their already-diverse roster.

18. Washington Wizards: JaVale McGee (Nevada) [C, 7-0, 237 lbs, 20 yrs] - McGee should make a nice backup for Brendan Haywood, as he is more of a scoring big man who was an effective three-point shooter in college. He is also an excellent shot-blocker and could help the Wizards' interior defense.

19. Cleveland Cavaliers: Chase Budinger (Arizona) [SG, 6-7, 205 lbs, 20 yrs] - More than anything else, the Cavs need to get LeBron some help on offense, and Budinger should be able to provide that. He's an excellent scorer with deep range on his shot. While his defense is suspect, he is athletic enough that he could be a capable defender if properly motivated.

20. Denver Nuggets: Chris Douglas-Roberts (Memphis) [SG, 6-6, 195 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Nuggets will take a long look at the point guards available (namely, Lawson and Chalmers), but their best bet would probably be to add a shooting guard like Douglas-Roberts. He'll give them a much-needed perimeter defender while also providing another shooter off the bench.

21. New Jersey Nets: Joe Alexander (West Virginia) [SF, 6-8, 220 lbs, 21 yrs] - Alexander could be a steal this late in the draft. He needs to improve his three-point shooting, but he is a superb athlete and should look good running the floor with speedsters Devin Harris and Marcus Williams.

22. Orlando Magic: Robin Lopez (Stanford) [C, 7-0, 245 lbs, 20 yrs] - Brook's twin should give the Magic a boost on the defensive end, often drawing comparisons to Anderson Varejao. After Dwight Howard, the Magic don't have much to offer as far as big men and Lopez should be, or at least develop into, an upgrade over Adonal Foyle.

23. Utah Jazz: Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) [C, 7-2, 275 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Jazz were a very poor shot-blocking team last season and as a result committed a criminal amount of fouls. Hibbert gives them shot-blocking and interior defense and though there are concerns about his lumbering pace, Utah relies mostly on half-court sets, so it shouldn't be a major issue.

24. Seattle Supersonics: Ty Lawson (North Carolina) [PG, 5-11, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - Lawson excited NBA scouts and GMs with a standout performance in Day One of the Orlando pre-draft camp. Seattle improves their point guard depth by adding Lawson here, after picking Mayo earlier in the draft.

25. Houston Rockets: Bill Walker (Kansas State) [SF, 6-6, 235 lbs, 20 yrs] - It would be hard for the Rockets to pass on Walker this late in the draft. He was thought to have top 5 potential before his ACL injury, but still had a strong season. He is still a very good athlete and a strong three-point shooter. If he can stay healthy, he could be a real steal this late.

26. San Antonio Spurs: Ante Tomic (Croatia) [C, 7-2, 237 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Spurs could also go for Nicholas Batum here, but more likely they take Tomic and let him develop overseas for a few more years.

27. New Orleans Hornets: J.J. Hickson (NC State) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 19 yrs] - Hickson gives the Hornets some much-needed size. His athleticism and speed should make him a good fit running the floor with Chris Paul.

28. Memphis Grizzlies: Nicholas Batum (France) [SF, 6-8, 210 lbs, 19 yrs] - Batum is still raw and fairly inexperienced, but that's not a problem for the rebuilding Grizzlies. He has a ton of upside and the Grizzlies should be able to get him some playing time, or they would have the option of letting him develop further in Europe.

29. Detroit Pistons: D.J. White (Indiana) [PF, 6-9, 240 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Pistons add a big man who should provide solid rebounding and some mid-range shooting. There is no particular area of need for Detroit but after taking three guards in last year's draft, it's hard to imagine they'd take another one here.

30. Boston Celtics: Mario Chalmers (Kansas) [PG, 5-11, 195 lbs, 20 yrs] - Hard to say whether he'd be any better than Gabe Pruitt, who didn't log significant minutes this season. If nothing else, he'd be a popular pick, as his championship game heroics made him one of the best-known players in the draft.

2nd Round

31. Minnesota Timberwolves: Courtney Lee (Western Kentucky) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 22 yrs] - Lee improves Minnesota's shooting guard depth, plus allows them to draft a second player with a girl's name.

32. Seattle Supersonics: Jason Thompson (Rider) [PF, 6-11, 250 lbs, 21 yrs] - He played very well for Rider and already has an NBA-body. His stock would be higher had he played against better competition in college.

33. Portland Trailblazers: Wayne Ellington (North Carolina) [SG, 6-5, 175 lbs, 20 yrs] - Ellington has been one of the better players at the Orlando pre-draft camp and should give Portland some help with its three-point shooting.

34. Minnesota Timberwolves: Trent Plaisted (BYU) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's been a very inconsistent player in college, but his talent is enough to get him drafted here.

35. Los Angeles Clippers: Nathan Jawai (Australia) [PF, 6-10, 270 lbs, 21 yrs] - Jawai provides some depth at power forward, which could prove essential should Elton Brand leave via free agency.

36. Portland Trailblazers: Serge Ibaka (Congo) [PF, 6-10, 220 lbs, 18 yrs] - With a pretty full roster, the Blazers can stash Ibaka abroad for a few years and allow him to develop.

37. Milwaukee Bucks: Joey Dorsey (Memphis) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 22 yrs] - Dorsey's pro future is questionable, but many scouts see him as a future Ben Wallace-type player. Milwaukee could use his defensive presence in the middle.

38. Charlotte Bobcats: Davon Jefferson (USC) [SF, 6-8, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - He needs to work on his fundamentals, but he has great overall potential and could help Charlotte down the road.

39. Chicago Bulls: Alexis Ajinca (France) [PF, 7-1, 240 lbs, 20 yrs] - While he won't contribute immediately, the Bulls have the depth to bring him along slowly or let him develop abroad for now.

40. New Jersey Nets: Jamont Gordon (Mississippi State) [SG, 6-4, 225 lbs, 21 yrs] - Gordon gives the Nets another piece for their bench, in a backup combo guard.

41. Indiana Pacers: Richard Hendrix (Alabama) [PF, 6-9, 260 lbs, 21 yrs] - He's looked good in Orlando so far. While he's a bit undersized, he's worth a look at this point.

42. Sacramento Kings: Gary Forbes (Massachusetts) [SF, 6-7, 220 lbs, 23 yrs] - He's having an excellent pre-draft camp in Orlando and has established himself as a second round pick.

43. Seattle Supersonics: Victor Claver (Spain) [SF, 6-1, 217 lbs, 19 yrs] - Claver is considered one of the top European prospects in the draft and could be a steal in the mid-second round.

44. Golden State Warriors: Shan Foster (Vanderbilt) [SG, 6-6, 205 lbs, 21 yrs] - Foster is one of the top three-point shooters in the draft and he should be able to find a niche in Don Nelson's offense.

45. Sacramento Kings: John Riek (Prep School) [C, 7-2, 230 lbs, 18 yrs] - He needs a lot of work and experience before he's NBA-ready but his superb size and athleticism make him a worthwhile gamble.

46. Utah Jazz: Danny Green (North Carolina) [SF, 6-5, 210 lbs, 20 yrs] - Not particularly athletic, but his basketball IQ and shooting could make him a nice fit in Utah.

47. San Antonio Spurs: Rudy Mbemba (Sweden) [PG, 6-0, 186 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Spurs add a potential backup point guard, who can develop overseas for a year or two.

48. Washington Wizards: Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (UCLA) [SF, 6-7, 215 lbs, 21 yrs] - While his offensive game is very limited, he could help the Wizards improve their lackluster defense.

49. Phoenix Suns: Omer Asik (Turkey) [C, 6-11, 230 lbs, 21 yrs] - The Suns can either add this defensive-minded big man, or stash him overseas.

50. Seattle Supersonics: Keith Brumbaugh (Hillsborough CC) [SF, 6-10, 215 lbs, 22 yrs] - An outstanding talent who has been hurt by poor off-court decisions. The Sonics can gamble on him and let him develop int he D-League.

51. Dallas Mavericks: Ryan Anderson (California) [PF, 6-10, 225 lbs, 20 yrs] - A big man with three-point range? Doesn't Dallas have one of those already? That didn't stop them from drafting Nick Fazekas last year and it won't stop them from taking Anderson here.

52. Miami Heat: Nikola Pekovic (Serbia) [C, 6-11, 245 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Heat need size and in Pekovic they get a big man who can provide some low-post scoring.

53. Utah Jazz: Lester Hudson (Tennessee Martin) [SG, 6-3, 190 lbs, 23 yrs] - Hudson is a combo guard with the potential to be an effective scorer. The Jazz take a chance and hope he develops some point guard skills as well.

54. Houston Rockets: C.J. Giles (Oregon State) [C, 6-11, 235 lbs, 22 yrs] - The Rockets develop a center to backup Yao once Dikembe Mutombo retires (which has to happen someday).

55. Portland Trailblazers: J.R. Giddens (New Mexico) [SG, 6-5, 200 lbs, 23 yrs] - He's a good athlete and effective shooter who will fight for a spot on the Blazers' loaded roster.

56. Seattle Supersonics: Malik Hairston (Oregon) [SG, 6-6, 200 lbs, 21 yrs] - Hairston doesn't have any one specialized skill, but he could still find a niche with his all-around talent.

57. San Antonio Spurs: Pat Calathes (St. Joseph's) [SF, 6-10, 210 lbs, 22 yrs] - This point-forward with a high basketball IQ should be a good fit in San Antonio.

58. Los Angeles Lakers: Rodrigue Beaubois (France) [PG, 6-2, 170 lbs, 20 yrs] - The Lakers can let him develop abroad, hoping he'll be an adequate backup for Jordan Farmar down the road.

59. Detroit Pistons: Jeremy Parge (Gonzaga) [PG, 6-2, 220 lbs, 22 yrs] - Quick, aggressive defender who could be useful as a defensive specialist and third-string point guard.

60. Boston Celtics: Kyle Weaver (Washington State) [SG, 6-6, 185 lbs, 22 yrs] - He's not much of a scorer, but the Celtics could make him useful as a defensive specialist.

Quote of the Day

George F. Will, on football:

“It combines the two worst aspects of American life. It is violence punctuated by committee meetings.”

PSB will be back with a vengeance soon. Don't worry faithful readers.