An Early Look at the Draft.

The Nets have only played nine games this season leaving 85 percent of the schedule to play. I do expect the Nets to improve this season whether the get Dwight Howard or not. IF the Nets do use their pick in the draft next year one must assume that they are looking for players who will make and immediate impact. Brooklyn will be a reality and the Barclay’s needs to open with a now team.

The 2012 draft has been touted at one of the best drafts of all time. To be honest, there are very few true superstars in this draft in my mind. The draft boards are currently filled with a great deal of “potential” players some of which I like and others I do not. There are four players who make sense for the Nets. As they improve the Nets should be capable of finishing strong and positioning themselves somewhere from the middle to the end of the draft lottery. The Nets could get Howard, they could trade the pick, they could tank it, they could win the draft lottery…

Using rankings from www.draftexpress.com, I created a buy or sell list of each player and how they fit the Nets. My mentality would be different depending on where the Nets are positioned as a team at the time and there is no way of knowing right now. I would expect that the Nets pick somewhere around 8 in the draft. I would also expect that Houston will be in the lottery and that the Nets will only have one pick, but who knows...

First Round

1) Anthony Davis PF 18 years old; 6'10"; 220 lbs. Kentucky, Freshman

Simply a stud. He is hand down the number one pick in the draft. I have watched a bunch of Kentucky games and you can see the improvement. Their defense and slowly their offense is beginning to run through him. On defense he will be able to defend and block shots from day one. Offensively he will be able to run the break and finish at the rim. Over time I expect him to develop an outside game which will make him unstoppable. The only think holding him back is putting on weight. By 2012, I expect he'll be ready to start, but his minutes may need to be kept in check as his body might take some time to be ready for the day-in-day-out pounding of the NBA. Verdict: Any team including the Nets would be crazy not to pick him #1. BUY

2) Andre Drummond C 18 years old; 6'11"; 251 lbs. Connecticut, Freshman

Have seen a little of him. Like many big men his age, he shows flashes, but the talent is undeniable. He comes with some questions of motivation and a lot of risk. I would expect that Calhoun makes him look like a player and teams salivate about his skills come draft time. I am not sure. Verdict: One way of another the Nets should be set at center. While the Nets seam to creating a culture where players like Drummond will succeed, they don’t have the time to wait. SELL

3) Harrison Barnes SF 19 years old; 6'8"; 223 lbs. North Carolina, Sophomore

Many were upset when Barnes didn’t light the NCAA on fire his freshmen year. As a Sophomore people still want to see more. He seems like a great kid who continues to improve various facets of his game. He has good size for a three and can shoot. Does he has trouble creating his own shot or is it a product of the system? Not sure, but he doesn’t have the super athletic NBA superstar profile. Verdict: The Nets could use a three and while Barnes doesn’t look like a guy who can carry an NBA team on his shoulders, the Nets are hoping that they have two of them next season. Barnes would be a great complimentary piece and could start from day one. BUY

4) Jared Sullinger PF 19 years old; 6'9"; 280 lbs. Ohio State, Sophomore

Sullinger is a wide-bodied big man with great post moves and touch around the basket. He seems like someone who loves the game and has a desire to maximize his abilities. The back problems are red flags in any big man and would have to be cleared by NBA doctors. Can he continue to keep his weight down? Verdict: Just seems like to many questions for me. SELL The Nets may think that he is a good fit next to their center and BUY, I just don’t agree.

5) Perry Jones PF 20 years old; 6'11"; 220 lbs. Baylor, Sophomore

“The Third” has unbelievable physical attributes for a forward. He has a combination of length, skill and athleticism that is incomparable. I have watched a lot a Baylor games and have yet to see him really take over. Too many times he just looks lost on the court. There are character questions but I think that they are a bit overblown. Verdict: He may be a Rudy Gay type athlete that just takes some time understanding how use his skill set, but I think he has bust written all over him. It’s tough to coach toughness and you have to be tough to succeed in the NBA. He’s fool’s gold. SELL

6) Thomas Robinson PF 20 years old; 6'9"; 240 lbs. Kansas, Junior

This is the odd part of the draft where the upside factor begins to wane. Robinson fits the profile he an athletic energy player. He’s not going to take over games, but he seems like a safe bet to rebound and play defense in the NBA. He looks like borderline starter/bench player on a good team. Verdict: He would help the Nets, they need talent everywhere, but at this point of the draft I think you’d be wise to look other places or trade the pick. SELL

7) John Henson PF 21 years old; 6'10"; 200 lbs. North Carolina, Junior

I have always been a big fan of Henson. The only question is whether he can put the weight on needed to take the pounding in the NBA. He’s active, rebounds and block shots. I even think there is some still untapped offensive ability. Verdict: He could be similar to Tyson Chandler, but I am not sure about his ability to put on weight. That makes him a matchup play. At #7 SELL

8) Michael Gilchrist SF 18 years old; 6'7"; 228 lbs. Kentucky, Freshman

The Michael Gilchrest love is all over the boards and rightly so. I don’t understand why he is so low on every draft board. To me he is the third or fourth player in the draft and a huge value here. I expect him to get drafted higher come draft day. His shot is awkward, but he athletic, plays and practice hard. His leadership as a freshmen is a big reason why I think the Wildcats will win the NCAA Championship.

Verdict: Would step in and contribute and be a great fit on the Nets. Doesn’t hurt that he is from Jersey, but my bet is Deron would love to play next to this kid for the next ten year. BUY BUY BUY

Please Read: http://www.kyforward.com/our-sports/2011/12/21/uk-freshman-michael-kidd-gilchrist-taking-leadership-role-bringing-intensity-to-wildcats/

9) Terrence Jones PF 19 years old; 6'9"; 249 lbs. Kentucky, Sophomore

Jones burst on the scene last year and even was garnering discussion for the top overall pick in the draft early on. Then the wheels came off or more appropriately, the motor dropped. Jones has an intriguing skill set that reminds scouts of Lamar Odom and he may be able to play that type of role in the NBA well. Verdict: I am not a big fan of players with fragile egos. Skill-wise he fits the Nets needs, but not for me. SELL

10) Bradley Beal SG 18 years old; 6'4"; 201 lbs. Florida, Freshman

I really can’t say that I have seen Beal play that much. Based on scouting reports he would be a good fit for the Nets. They need players who can shoot and defend. Beal fits that profile although his is a bit short for a SG and does not have PG skills. Verdict: Most Nets fans don’t want a SG in the draft because they think that Marshon is the heir apparent. Don’t get me wrong, I like Brooks and but think that his role is as a great sixth man, energy, offensive sparkplug. I just worry whether he can develop into the type of player that can fill a role in an offensive system. If Beal is that type of player you draft him. BUY or SELL

11) Jeremy Lamb SG 19 years old; 6'5"; 185 lbs. Connecticut, Sophomore

Here is another player that has got some burn on the boards. He has an intriguing skill-set. His shooting is silky smooth and he has the length to be a disruptive player, he just needs to add some muscle. Givony of Draft Express is lower on him than most. I think it has something to do with his attitude and body language for the USA basketball team this past summer. Verdict: He may not have the type of character that drives him into the elite level player that many predict, but at worst he fills a high demand role as a shooter in the NBA and he still has the upside to become more than that. Again, Marshon’s presence should not stop us from drafting a player like Lamb. BUY

12) Quincy Miller SF 19 years old; 6'9"; 200 lbs.Baylor, Freshman

Here is a player that really intrigues me. Watching the games he doesn’t quite standout on the court – nobody on Baylor does. You can see the tools are there and he gives good effort on the court and isn’t afraid to do work down low. I haven’t seen the “Kevin Durant-like” skills, but if they are there he could really be special. Verdict: Miller spent a large portion of his senior year in high school injured with a torn MCL. One would expect his game to be rusty. It may take another year before his athleticism returns and he is trying to adjust to the college game. I am going to watch him closely for the rest of the year he could be a steal. I just wonder are the Nets willing to draft this type of talent and wait or are they completely in win now mode? BUY

13) Meyers Leonard C 19 years old; 7'0"; 240 lbs. Illinois, Sophomore

I have not seen him play, but he is the a mobile seven footer, that alone puts him on the radar. He is the type of player you draft and place on the bench and slowly let mature before giving him more and more minutes. Verdict: There is value for that, just seems like the Nets have more needs that could be addressed at this point. In this draft there are about four or five players like him. He just looks the best – right now. SELL

14) Terrence Ross SF 20 years old; 6'7"; 197 lbs. Washington, Sophomore

I have seen him play in two games where I watched the fourth quarter. He was impressive in both games but Tony Wroten was more impressive. Verdict: He has the size and shooting ability that would fit nicely with the Nets. I am going to watch a few more games before I make my decision. HOLD

15) Tyler Zeller PF/C 21 years old; 6'11"; 220 lbs. North Carolina, Junior

I put Zeller in the same book as Leonard. He seems like a role player in the NBA. He is a junior and still has not impacted the NCAA game as expected. Some are saying that his brother, who is a Freshman at Indiana is the better player. Verdict: The Nets are not in a position to draft players like this and declare it a victory. SELL

16) Patric Young C 19 years old; 6'9"; 247 lbs. Florida, Sophomore

Here is another player that I really like. He is a bull dog down low, attacks the rim and is really athletic. He is only a sophomore and is built like a man. He still lacks much of a post game and may actually be carrying too much bulk. He has a reputation as a hard worker which I like, but one would think he would have improved more offensively if works hard. He may just not have the ability. Verdict: If Nets get Howard he would be a bit redundant. I think the Nets would need someone to spread the floor a bit and that is not Young. Whatever team drafts him is getting a good NBA player with some upside. BUY

17) Kendall Marshall PG 20 years old; 6'4"; 180 lbs. North Carolina, Sophomore

I really like Marshall and think he would be a great pick for the Nets to develop behind Deron. He is a floor general, four stars. He is not really athletic by can pick is spots and get players the ball in a position to score. There is a place for Marshall in the NBA. Verdict: Not sure that place is in Brooklyn. It’s really hard to draft a back up point guard when you have at least two other positions that need legitimate starters. SELL

18) Austin Rivers SG 19 years old; 6'4"; 203 lbs. Duke, Freshman

Another player that Givony is down on, but the boards love. I get the impression that the love has more to do with the name on the back of the uniform. He has a reputation for being a mole on offense. Playing at Duke will help him learn how to play system basketball. He does not have ideal size, but has good athleticism. For him to be a starter in the NBA he has to find a way to defend and score as a complimentary option. Verdict: At eighteen there may be some value there, but some GM will fall in love with him early and overdraft him. SELL

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com#ixzz1isPEoZNv
http://www.draftexpress.com

A few days ago someone mentioned the possibility of using Prokhorov's cash in order to swing a trade for Dwight.  In this trade scenario the Nets would take on Gilbert Arenas and dump his contract under the amnesty clause.  I realize that it is a bit premature to expect an amnesty clause, but pretty much all offseason talk, other than the draft hinges on the ultimate outcome the new CBA.

 

Let us assume that the new CBA does include an amnesty clause and a hard cap or something close to it.  I was looking what teams may be looking to swing trades to unload overpaid veterans where the Nets could release the player and our more than rich owner could swallow the long term costs of a ridiculous contract.  I looked at Detroit, is it possible that the Nets could trade Outlaw for a Ben Gordon and pick up a pick from Detroit?  They could then subsequently drop Gordon instead of Outlaw, but it would save Detroit over 10 million dollars.  Would the Nets take Gordon and the #8 pick for the #27 pick and drop Gordon and keep Outlaw?

What would Atlanta give up to take on Joe Johnson for Outlaw?  It would be a ridiculous sum of money for Prokhorov and Atlanta doesn't have a first round pick this year.  Would they do it for two seconds and an unprotected pick in the 2012 draft? 

Other deals could be struck with Golden State for Lee or Chicago for Boozer which are less likely.  But it would be an interesting way to use our money and cap space to acquire more resources.  What do you guys think?  Do you have any other ideas using this type of trade scenario?

via www.harpercollinschildrens.com

 

Shel Silverstein wrote, "It was missing a piece.  And he was not happy".  This former Playboy cartoonist turned children's writer may have been not so subtly writing a book about sexual intercourse, but as a child I loved it for different reasons.  The sequel met the Big "O" and I would too, but the Nets have not found their missing piece just yet and they are not happy - and neither are their fans.  Is it possible that the Nets can find that piece for the beginning of the strike-shortened 2011 NBA basketball season?  Or are we looking at another year of watching frustrating Nets basketball?

 

Today DraftExpress.com tweeted:

 

"DraftExpress: Weak on star power and very very shallow. Wil get worse? RT @KeeneRosenthal: 2011 draft: weak on star power but very, very deep. Thoughts?
2011-02-04 06:56:22"

 

So what does this mean for the Nets?  Well it would mean that the chances of the Nets getting that star player and leader of the franchise would be very difficult this year.  In looking at the first round mock from Draftexpress.com (following) and analyzing the current draft I certainly can see a lack of depth.  Still, the Nets should be able to get a good player in the top 10 and if they "get lucky" there are a few players that could begin to turn the franchise in the right direction.  The problem with this years draft is that many of the upside players are still a ways away from being solid contributors in the NBA.  Being that many fans on this site are already masochistically following NetsDaily,I worry that may make this years draft even more painful.  Additionally, it looks like many of the top players are Power Forwards and Centers, which are the two positions which we have dedicated much of our future.

 

"DraftExpress: That remains to be seen. Still 30 guaranteed contracts available. RT @JasonAClairmont: Will get worse when players get scared off by lockout
2011-02-04 07:04:33"

 

Even more complicating matters is the lingering CBA and lockout.  NetsDaily has told us that agents will front the money for draft prospects to declare.  Maybe that means that there will be pressure on the players to strike a deal quicker so that they can get their money – maybe.  Either way I would think that most of these players in the top 10 will declare.  In the foreign crop Vesely has already stated that he is going to declare, Kanter really has not other option, although it would be stupid for me to speculate on Valanciunas or Motiejunas.  The biggest question marks from the college kids would be Barnes, Irving, and Sullinger.  I think Irving is gone if he is healthy, while Barnes and Sullinger I’m not so sure.

 

"DraftExpress: Maybe I'm getting more pessimistic with age, but looks a lot worse to me. RT @thebrandino: Shallower than last year?? or about the same?
2011-02-04 07:01:51"

 

Right now the Nets stand at #6 and #25.  I would like them to move in the 3-5 area, but can’t see them finishing this bad unless there are injuries or Harris gets traded.  The #25 pick doesn’t look like it will get us much, but that is what scouting departments are for – we’ll see if all this money has been well spent.  If we stay at #6 I think we could get a good player.  I would like Barnes or Williams there; otherwise we are looking at T. Jones, Henson, or Vesely - and a probable return to the draft next year.  I am really hoping for some luck in the lottery so we can bring Irving back to jersey. If not I would like someone to fall to us.  It would not be surprising if the Nets used some of those first round picks from next year to trade up and get someone they like, as many of the players in the top five are "beauty in the eye of the beholder types".   Ultimately I think the Nets get a real quality piece.

 

Dreaming...of the kid from Jersey bringing some life to Newark.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

1	Cavaliers	Kyrie Irving  PG 18 years old; 6'2"; 185 lbs. Duke, Freshman	He would be the ideal fit for the Nets.  Simply put he makes everyone around him better.  If the toe checks out he would be my first pick for the Nets.
2	Timberwolves	Perry Jones  PF 19 years old; 6'11"; 220 lbs. Baylor, Freshman	Tantalizingly talented, he would put your team in a tough position.  No GM wants to miss on what he might become.  The right structure needs to be in place for him to be successful.  A bad fit for the Nets chemistry wise, but if he falls past the third pick and the Nets get a shot, they have to take him – right?
3	Raptors	Jonas Valanciunas  C 18 years old; 6'11"; 240 lbs. Lietuvos Rytas, International	He looks REALLY skinny in the videos that I saw.  We already have a center and he looks like he will take some time.  Seems legitimately skilled, but at least two to three years away.  Another bad fit.
4	Kings	Jared Sullinger  PF 18 years old; 6'8"; 250 lbs. Ohio State, Freshman	Let me just say that I do think he will be a solid NBA Power Forward, but I want better value with a top 5 pick in the draft.  He is a great college player, but in watching him, his game is mostly "under the rim".  As he gets his lower half stronger he will be able to use his body to move people, but there is little upside here.  I think he is a great fit for a team like Washington.
5	Wizards	Derrick Williams  PF 19 years old; 6'8"; 235 lbs. Arizona, Sophomore	Watching him it is not hard to walk away impressed with his game.  The fact that he has improved so much in his two years in college says something about how professional he will be in the NBA.  He doesn’t excite me, even though he probably should.
6	Nets	Enes Kanter  C 18 years old; 6'10"; 250 lbs. Kentucky, International	Not sure why everybody is so sure this guy is good.  There really isn’t that much to go on other than his performance against the U.S. squad over the summer.  I read somewhere that he had some injury problems that need to be "checked out".  Another person who seems like a bad fit.
7	Pistons	Kemba Walker  PG 20 years old; 6'0"; 180 lbs. Connecticut, Junior	Undersized, lightning quick Point Guard with an improved outside shot.  Honestly, look at the upper echelon Point Guards in the league and tell me he doesn’t sound like a spark off the bench.  In the top 10, that means that he is either overrated or this is a weak draft.  No Thanks.
8	Clippers	Terrence Jones  SF/PF 19 years old; 6'8"; 200 lbs. Kentucky, Freshman	Everybody’s favorite pick for the Nets.  I think he may be a bad fit.  Defensively, he would make the Nets susceptible to smaller, quicker teams that can run and offensively he is better in transition than the slow, plodding offense we are running right now.  I really like his intensity though.
9	Bucks	John Henson  PF 20 years old; 6'10"; 200 lbs. North Carolina, Sophomore	I have like him for awhile and think he will be an awesome NBA player.  They say that he has gotten a lot stronger, but he is still really skinny.  It hasn’t been a problem in the NCAA as he is having a great year.  He’s intriguing.  Most people think he will be a four in the NBA.  I hope he develops his outside shot and learn how to play the three.
10	Pacers	Donatas Motiejunas  PF/C 20 years old; 7'0"; 215 lbs. Benetton Treviso, International	He’s been compared to Bargnani, which automatically makes him suspect.  You just don’t win with those types of players unless you have a really strong defensive center – which Brook is not.  If he can prove that he can defend the post effectively he may be a good player.  He idolized Sabonis – that’s a good thing.
11	Warriors	Harrison Barnes  SF 18 years old; 6'8"; 210 lbs. North Carolina, Freshman	I can’t believe Givony updated his mock draft and left Barnes at #11.  His jumper has looked silky smooth the last three games and seems to be finding his role in the offense.  Drew has transferred and Marshal has been given the keys to the offense, which is a good thing for Barnes.  That is unless Marshal gets hurt as I’m not sure how their depth will be at PG.
12	Rockets	Jan Vesely  SF 20 years old; 6'11"; 240 lbs. KK Partizan Belgrade, International	Draftexpress was really high on this guy, but his stock has dropped a bit this year.  He’s not the typical European as he is more athletic than skilled.  Whatever team drafts him will be happy with him as a player.  He’s Casspri, but better.
13	Suns	Jimmer Fredette  PG 21 years old; 6'2"; 195 lbs. BYU, Senior	This is really high for him and possibly an indication of the lack of depth in this draft.  Honestly, I have not seen him play a great deal, but we have Morrow already and I’m happy with that.
14	Grizzlies	Chris Singleton  SF 21 years old; 6'8"; 210 lbs. Florida State, Junior	A defensive specialist.  Low risk, low reward.  If that’s what you’re looking for than draft him.
15	Bobcats	Marcus Morris  PF 21 years old; 6'9"; 225 lbs. Kansas, Junior	Haven’t seen him, not really that interested.
16	76ers	Jordan Hamilton  SF 20 years old; 6'7"; 210 lbs. Texas, Sophomore	A volume shooter who doesn’t play defense – No thanks.
17	Knicks	Jeff Taylor  SF 21 years old; 6'6"; 200 lbs. Vanderbilt, Junior	Haven’t seen him.
18	Trailblazers	Alec Burks  SG 19 years old; 6'6"; 200 lbs. Colorado, Sophomore	Haven’t seen him, but I am interested.  He has gotten better and better.  He looks like he might be a solid 2.
19	Jazz	Kawhi Leonard  SF/PF 19 years old; 6'7"; 225 lbs. San Diego State, Sophomore	This is low for him.  He is the type of guy that teams overlook because they draft on upside – that still have long careers in the league.
20	Nuggets	Josh Selby  SG 19 years old; 6'1"; 180 lbs. Kansas, Freshman	A 6’1" scorer – not PG.  I usually stay away from these types.  Although at the end of round one you think about it.  He hasn’t even been that good this year though.
21	Magic	Tobias Harris  PF 18 years old; 6'8"; 210 lbs. Tennessee, Freshman	Boring.
22	Hornets	Brandon Knight  PG 18 years old; 6'3"; 170 lbs. Kentucky, Freshman	I like him.  He looks quick on the floor.  I need to see his game improve before the end of the year.  I think he will find his place in Calipari’s lineup.  Look for him to move up.  Still, is he a point guard or a shooting guard?  Maybe he can be Baron Davis.
23	Hawks	Travis Leslie  SF 20 years old; 6'4"; 202 lbs. Georgia, Junior	Haven’t seen him.
24	Thunder	Nolan Smith  PG/SG 22 years old; 6'3"; 185 lbs. Duke, Senior	Seems like a backup point guard to me.  Those are guys you draft in second round.
25	Lakers	Markieff Morris  PF 21 years old; 6'10"; 235 lbs. Kansas, Junior	Not really that interested.
26	Mavericks	Tristan Thompson  PF 19 years old; 6'8"; 235 lbs. Texas, Freshman	He’s interesting, but haven’t seen him.
27	Bulls	Trey Thompkins  PF 20 years old; 6'9"; 245 lbs. Georgia, Junior	Haven’t seen him.
28	Heat	Bojan Bogdanovic  SG/SF 21 years old; 6'7"; 216 lbs. Cibona VIP Zagreb, International	Doesn’t really sound like he’ll give you much for a first round pick.
29	Celtics	Demetri McCamey  PG 21 years old; 6'3"; 205 lbs. Illinois, Senior	Moving up boards, but haven’t seen him.
30	Spurs	Kyle Singler  SF/PF 22 years old; 6'9"; 210 lbs. Duke, Senior	Has a role, but will be limited.

 

 

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2011/#ixzz1D6fqlWhb
http://www.draftexpress.com

 

Poll

Where are the Nets most likely to find the "missing piece"?

10%

In a trade before the deadline

10 votes

3%

In free agency this summer

3 votes

40%

In the draft (only if they get lucky)

40 votes

15%

Someone will fall to them in the draft

15 votes

30%

Can't see it happening before 2012 offseason

30 votes

98 votes | Poll has closed

I feel like these boards have been filled with short-sighted fans as the NBA landscape will most certainly change after the impending lockout and the new CBA.  While it is impossible to guess exactly how this will change the nature of building a championship team it is still fun to speculate.  I have long held the belief that acquiring and accumulating assets moving into the 2011 season is the way to go – and it seems like the Nets have done just that.

 

If I had to guess I would think that the new CBA will include lower max salaries, less years and a higher tax on teams that exceed the salary cap.  The biggest change that has been discussed in these forums is restricted free agency.  While I wonder if the 2011 free agent class, including Carmelo, could be slapped with a franchise tag I am more concerned about the 2012 class.  If there is a restricted free agency period you can be assured that Dwight Howard, Deron Williams and to a lesser degree Chris Paul will not become free agents as expected in the 2012 offseason.  I wonder how the rules will change with international draft picks who have a distinct advantage over prospect born in the states who attend American Universities.  As it currently stands Rubio would not be bound by the rookie salary cap in 2012 although Minnesota would still hold his rights.  This would increase his negotiating power in demanding a trade, especially since he would become an honest-to-goodness free agent in 2014.  I also wonder how the contracts for second-rounders may change.

 

Now let’s look at how this may pertain to the Nets.  In the 2011 draft, which will take place before the lockout, how do you rate the international crop?  This is by all accounts looking to be a good international group.  Do the Nets looks to draft and stash to continue to accumulate talent with more control?  How about salary cap space?  I would think that there will be teams willing to unload expensive talent in order to ensure that they stay under the cap.  The Nets could making a killing picking up overpriced veterans on the cheap in trades, but will be less likely to do so in free agency.

 

Still the MAJOR problem will be.  How do the Nets acquire a star?  Will the league be as star driven?  I would think that team will be able to retain their stars for longer using their restricted tags.  I am not sure what the solution is, but am looking for some interesting discussion.

 

In the last post I mentioned Billy King’s draft history.  It seemed to indicate that he drafts a lot of "young athletes" and he moves around a great deal in the draft.  Looking at a list of his draft picks from 1998-2007, King drafted Larry Hughes (#8 in 1998), Speedy (#20 in 1999), Samuel Dalembert (#26 in 2001), Ander Igoudala (#9 in 2004), Louis Williams (#45 in 2005) and Thaddeus Young (#12 in 2007).  He also traded picks for a player 3 times or for other picks 5 times maneuvering around in the draft a great deal.  This is a much different approach than his predecessor, Rod Thorn.

Keeping this in mind here are some thinks to think about for the next two drafts.  Now I am basing much of my analysis off of youtube clips and www.draftexpress.com, http://espn.go.com/nba/draft and www.nbadraft.net

 Looking at the 2011 draft, it seems like a strong draft.  There is a great deal of depth and a few possible franchise type players.  If there is a lock out it may effect the depth of this draft.  Still, it stands to improve the 2012 draft where the Nets could add possible two pretty good pieces.  The top of the 2011 draft includes the likes of Harrison Barnes, Perry Jones, Kyrie Irving, Jared Sullinger, and Enes Kanter.  I would be surprised if the Nets had the opportunity to draft any of these guys (if they come out) unless they get lucky in the lottery.

Harrison Barnes - even though he just got shut down (0-12 from the field against Minnesota) he seems like a legit franchise player that would fit into the Nets core well.

 Perry Jones – He seems like a phenomenal athlete and is skilled. He is listed at 6’ 11" with great length and leaping ability.  I just worry about his attitude.  He has been criticized because his team was not competitive this year and in this interview from draftexpress he addresses this by saying that he didn’t get along with the coach and the players on the team.  I’ll keep an eye on him this year, but he would worry me.  Although the thought of him and Favors on the same court is scary.

Kyrie Irving – one to watch, a pass first point guard and another good kid.  He is not supposed to be a super athletic kid so I’m holding off judgement until I see him play a couple of times.  If he does look like Chris Paul he could be another franchise guy.

 Sullinger – every report on this kid is glowing, he already has started the year strong at Ohio State.  Is not a super athlete and may not be ideal height for an NBA power forward but will definitely be a good NBA player.  Not sure how he would fit in at power forward for the Nets.

 Kanter – looks solid on video, looks like a center but its hard to tell.  We’ll see what happens now that he has been ruled inelible by the NCAA.  I’m on hold.

 The European crop if you do not include Kantor is consists of Jan Vesley, Jonas Valanciunas, Dontas Motiejunas and now Bojan Boddanovic. 

Montiejunas - an offensive minded big who doesn’t seem to like contact – pass.

Valanciunas – body not there yet but seems to have the frame, could be legit NBA center in time.

Vesley – I think he might be the best of the bunch.  Draftexpress like him the most and they seem to have the better grasp on international prospects.  He doesn’t sound like a star but you can be sure your getting a good starting SF/PF.

Boddanovic – a rising European who is having a great year.  I worry about Euro imports without a track record.  They seem to fail more often than not.

There are some other interesting prospects to watch this year that might be good picks for the Nets.  Most of them fit Billy King’s template.

Josh Selby – he is currently on NCAA suspension but looks to have the ability to score, which the Nets need.  I am not sure if he will be able or willing to defend on the NBA level.

Rodney Williams – HE IS MY SLEEPER.  He just shut down Harrison Barnes in a matchup that Minnesota won.  He doesn’t score in the methodical system that Tubby Smith runs, but he has jawbreaking athleticism.

John Henson – another interesting guy.  He is really skinny, but if his body could hold up or he could develop an outside game he could be a good NBA players.  He is active on the boards and has ridiculously long length.

Malcolm Lee – a shooting guard/ point guard for the Bruins he is now the point under Howland.  He has had success grooming points in the past and has the physical tools to be able to guard and attack the basket.  I would keep an eye on him.  Expect his stock to rise near draft time.

Terrence Jones – a Kentucky freshmen who many are high on this year.  Many people think that he, not Knight, will be the big Calipari product this year.  He is more skilled than athletic and has been compared to Lamar Odom. 

Lucas Nogueira – a big man out of Brazil, he has sleeper written all over him.  If you watch the video he looks like a presence around the basket.  I hope the Nets can buy a late first or use an early second to stash him in Brazil for a few years and let him develop.

Ian Miller – a freshmen at Florida State who is just moving to the point.  He looks to have real good athleticism and is a late bloomer.  I am not sure how good the coaches are at Florida State, but if he can develop some skills it will be interesting.

If anyone is tired of the Melo talk, they may want to take some time to take a look forward toward the next two draft for the Nets to see what type of talent the Nets may be able to acquire and add to the current roster.  This would mean that the Nets don’t use these picks to add to their roster.  Would this be a good move?  I tend to enjoy adding young talent so my first reaction is yes. 

There are three reasons why I think holding onto the picks is a good idea.  The first is the fact that we seem to have a good young core to build around in Favors and Lopez, if the Nets could add one other young piece they could have a solid core entering Brooklyn. 

The second is that there young upside pieces seem to be great trade assets for example, lets look at how the Celtics drafted before they traded for Garnet.

Draft 2003
Selected guard Troy Bell (16th overall pick) and forwards Dahntay Jones (20th overall pick) and Brandon Hunter (56th overall pick).
Traded the draft rights to guard Troy Bell and forward Dahntay Jones to the Memphis Grizzlies for the draft rights to guard Marcus Banks and center Kendrick Perkins.

Draft 2004
Selected forwards Al Jefferson (15th overall pick) and Justin Reed (40th overall pick) and guards Delonte West (24th overall pick) and Tony Allen (25th overall pick).

Draft 2005
Selected guards Gerald Green (18th overall pick) and Orien Greene (53rd overall pick) and forward Ryan Gomes (50th overall pick).

Draft 2006
Selected guard Randy Foye (7th overall pick).
Traded guard Dan Dickau, center Raef LaFrentz and the draft rights to guard Randy Foye to the Portland Trail Blazers for guard Sebastian Telfair, center Theo Ratliff and a 2008 second-round pick; traded a future first-round pick to the Phoenix Suns for the draft rights to guard Rajon Rondo and forward Brian Grant; traded a future second-round pick to the Denver Nuggets for the draft rights to forward Leon Powe.

Draft 2007
Selected forward Jeff Green (5th overall pick) and guard Gabe Pruitt (32nd overall pick).

Everyone knows that the Celtics traded Jefferson (who was the 15th overall pick) as the key piece for Garnet.  But they were still left with Perkins and Rondo, two key pieces of their championship team.  For the Nets, I believe that their young assets will be at peak value in 2012 when they will know exactly what they have and will know the talent coming out of the 2012 draft.

The third reason why I like these picks is looking at the draft history of Billy King.  It is much different than Rod Thorn, who seemed to like experienced college players from big programs.  King seems to draft more like Ainge, which are upside athletes.  Look at his draft history, it’s pretty impressive.

Draft 1998
Selected guard Larry Hughes (8th overall pick) and forward Casey Shaw (37th overall pick).
Traded a future first-round draft to the Utah Jazz for the draft rights to center Nazr Mohammed.

Draft 1999
Selected center Todd MacCulloch (47th overall pick).
Traded a future first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for the draft rights to forward Jumaine Jones.

Draft 2000
Selected guards Speedy Claxton (20th overall pick) and Mark Karcher (48th overall pick).

Draft 2001
Selected center Samuel Dalembert (26th overall pick), forward Damone Brown (37th overall pick) and center Alvin Jones (57th overall pick).

Draft 2002
Selected guard Jiri Welsch (16th overall pick) and forward Sam Clancy (45th overall pick).
Traded the draft rights to guard Jiri Welsch to the Golden State Warriors for a future first-round draft pick and a future first- or second-round draft pick; traded guard Speedy Claxton to the San Antonio Spurs for forward Mark Bryant and the draft rights to guard John Salmons and forward Randy Holcomb; traded second-round picks in 2004 and 2006 for the draft rights to forward-center Efthimios Rentzias.

Draft 2003
Selected guard Paccelis Morlende (50th overall pick).
Acquired the draft rights to guard Kyle Korver from the New Jersey Nets for cash considerations.
Traded the draft rights to guard Paccelis Morlende to the Seattle SuperSonics for the draft rights to guard Willie Green.

Draft 2004
Selected guard Andre Iguodala (9th overall pick).

Draft 2005
Selected guard Louis Williams (45th overall pick).

Draft 2006
Selected guard Thabo Sefolosha (13th overall pick).

Traded the draft rights to guard Thabo Sefoloshato the Chicago Bulls for the draft rights to guard Rodney Carney; traded a future second-round pick and cash to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the draft rights to forward Bobby Jones; traded cash to the Toronto Raptors for the draft rights to forward Edin Bavcic.

Draft 2007
Selected forward Thaddeus Young (12th overall pick), guards Daequan Cook (21st overall pick) and Petteri Koponen (30th overall pick) and center Kyrylo Fesenko (38th overall pick).
Traded the draft rights to guard Daequan Cook, a 2009 second-round pick and cash to the Miami Heat for the draft rights to forward Jason Smith; traded the draft rights to guard Petteri Koponen to the Portland Trail Blazers for the draft rights to forward Derrick Byars and cash; traded the draft rights to center Kyrylo Fesenko to the Utah Jazz for the draft rights to forward Herbert Hill and future draft considerations.

Now if you look at the Celtics the period of drafting before they developed an identity was between 2003 and 2007.  If you look at the Nets their “asset building period" began when they selected Lopez in 2008.  By 2012, the Nets would have the same amount of time to collect talent before they decide on the franchises ultimate direction.  They will have Lopez, Favors, Williams and D. James, as well as whatever they can add in the next three years.  With these assets they will have the flexibility to add in the trade market while keeping young exciting talent.  In the next session I will look at some of the players that intrigue me coming out of the draft in the next two year.

Many fans seem split about how to best move forward as the Nets look to build a championship contender.  Obviously much of the debate centers around the Melo trade.  Let us assume for a second that there is no way to trade for Melo without trading Favors and that Melo will not sign with the Nets following this season.  What is the best way to build the Nets?

As I have been navigating over to Nbadraft.net and draftexpress.com it is a bit depressing knowing that the team, as currently constructed, is not ready to compete with the top tier playoff teams.  Yes, trading for Melo would bring us closer, but I want a championship level team and love the young core.  What direction would you take if you were the GM of the Nets?

First off - without any additions during the season I would think that this is a fringe playoff/lottery team.  Any major injuries would bring us as high as a seven pick in the draft.  I really don't see us as any worse than that.  Looking at the roster would you trade anyone realizing that they are not part of the future 3-5 years down the line when we are ready to compete?  Trading Outlaw would be difficult without adding picks, young talent or bringing back an albatross contracts, so he is here for the foreseeable future.  Hump, Murphy and other expiring contracts can be combined for a salary dump, but I don't see anybody other than Arenas that is on the market and I don't see that as a fit.  Me, I would trade Harris.  I like Harris, so this isn't to bash his game, I just feel like he would bring back assets at the deadline for a team desperate for a starting point.  The price tag - another 2012 first round pick and a young piece, would have to take another expiring contract to make it fit.

Where would this leave us after this season?  We would have a bunch of cap room and draft picks, but no stars (assuming Melo is not in the plans) on the market - at least none that make sense.  We could get lucky in the 2011 draft, but I think the most likely scenario is that the draft is thin due to a potential lockout.  We draft the best upside player in 2011 and wait until the new CBA.  After the new CBA is signed we would have cap space and picks to vulture players from teams looking to dump and three picks in what would be a loaded 2012 draft.  By the time Brook is ready to sign his first contract there is a good chance we could find a major player in the backcourt to add to our young core and solid role players. 

It is really frustrating to think we would have to wait two years and still have a young team.  But I think if we precede with patience that we will be in REALLY good shape as we move into Brooklyn.  I think that there would be a good possibility that we would be in competition with Durant and OK and maybe the Clips as the next generation team, competing to knock off the Heat from the top.

What do you think?  Don't make this a Melo argument, make this about the patience plan or your lack of patience.

Poll

Here's a marketing question. If Melo signed with the Nets as a free agent who would be your favorite player?

58%

Favors

23 votes

7%

Melo

3 votes

25%

Lopez

10 votes

2%

Harris

1 votes

2%

Twill

1 votes

2%

Other

1 votes

39 votes | Poll has closed

I know everyone is excited about the prospects of Favors next to Lopez, but its not out of the question that Favors grows into a center.  What if the Nets try to reinvestigate the Melo deal with Lopez as the centerpiece?  What ig Lopez, Outlaw, and the Nets 2012 first round pick were shipped to Denver for Melo?

Lineup

PG: Harris/Farmar/Uzoh

SG: Morrow/Williams/Graham

SF: Anthony/ James / Ross

PF: Murphy / Humphries / Smith

C: Favors / Petro / Zoubek

Not sure if Melo would be sold on signing long term with that lineup, but I like it short and long term, especially with the 2012 Golden State pick intact.  Flexibility..or the Nets can just stay the course and get R-U-B-I-O

via a.espncdn.com

 

The Ricky Rubio Campaign

 

Unfortunately this offseason has not gone according to plan as our fan base has been reminded:  New owner, new GM, new coach, new players – same old Nets.  In my mind this season is another "lost" season.  Not to say that it will not be better than last season; it most certainly will.  I’m excited for an exciting, athletic, team that will run and play good defense.  In looking at our roster, including our current additions, you CAN see that there is a plan in place.  Instead of collecting a group of disparate pieces, there are groups of players who fit a system.  Remember, rebuilding is a process and just because our new owner has infused a quick shot of adrenaline into the arms of our fan base does not mean that this will happen overnight.

 

Remember, though our goal is to build a dynasty.  By the time that Favors and Lopez, our two main cogs, are in their prime Miami will have a core that is 30 and over.  This team is a different generation of stars one that is more likely to see Durant in the Finals that Kobe or Lebron.  Let’s assume that Favors can reach his potential and at least be a top five power forward in the league and that Lopez will be a top five center, which he will likely accomplish this year.  Every championship team seems to have 3 top players at their position.  The Lakers have Kobe, Gasol, and Bynum when healthy.  The Celtics have Rondo, Peirce and a fading Garnett.  The Nets need to add one more piece. 

 

I know there are a bunch of fans who think Harris is a top point guard in this league.  Debatable.  Either way does anyone expect Harris to still be a top PG when Favors hits his prime?  The answer for the Nets is Rubio.  Not CP3, but Ricky Rubio.  He would be the perfect lead man for a highly athletic up-tempo team.  We could become the Suns who play Defense.

 

Now, how do we make this happen?  Kahn, for all his criticism has done a nice job of collecting assets for the T-Wolves.  Their team seems to have no particular direction right now and it is questionable if Rubio would be willing to set up shop in Minnesota.  It is abundantly clear that Kahn’s ego will not allow him to trade Rubio unless he brings back some major pieces.  The problem is that the Nets don’t have any.  They have some nice picks, some complementary players, but nothing to close the deal.

 

So what do we do?  We wait.  We suffer through another tough season as we implement our system, straighten out our front office and allow our young talent to grow and mature.  We hope that next year’s pick can be packaged to get us Rubio.  We look for opportunities to collect assets that may mature within the next two years.  That is why I like our free agent strategy of signing young players and why I was really upset that we missed out on T. Thomas, who would fit our up-tempo, defensive-minded philosophy.  We build up the trade value of players like Lee, Harris, and Twill or whoever else. 

 

Somehow, next offseason when Rubio’s contract expires we figure out a way to get the best prospect in Europe for the last 3 years.  Please go to Youtube and watch the highlight videos of Rubio and tell me that he would not pair well with Favors.  I have heard complaints that he is just a highlight real and not a basketball player.  First of all have you ever seen someone have as many highlights?  Maybe Lebron.  Second, go watch the numerous games that are posted where there will be 9 minutes of game highlights from one player.  Rubio is the man who will bring excitement back to the Nets since our last great PG left.  Rubio, Favors, and Lopez will make our Nets one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA will capture Newark, start the party in Brooklyn, draw global interest and maybe, just maybe turn Knick fans into Net fans.

 

And so…

 

I begin the Ricky Rubio to the Nets crusade.  Who else is in?

 

 

Please watch:  http://www.youtube.com/watch#!v=o_pL2PyF56U&feature=related

It’s one of many, but imagine Favors on the other end, just imagine…

 

via ccipriano.files.wordpress.com

PLUS

 

 

via hoopedia.nba.com

PLUS

via www.tickettogames.com

PLUS

via www.throwbackguy.com

EQUALS

 

via www.scheelssports.com

I grew up a Nets fan because I lived in Northern New Jersey and my dad got tickets to Net games.  I guess other friends got tickets to Knicks games, but I didn’t care I ate it up even though my dad could care less.  As time moved on we would find our way to a game once a year and I would know each player (I told my dad how to pronounce Drazen Petrovic where D. Brown hit the game winning shot).

 

Somewhere along the line I fell in love with Michael Jordan.  He was a brand.  The key was that he was constantly able to live up to the hype.  I watched him lose twice to the Pistons, I hated them for being bullies.  I rejoiced when they overcame the Pistons and won a championship.  He took on Magic’s legacy, he won three in a row, and he retired.  To play baseball. 

 

He was one of those people who you follow, who makes you want to achieve and live up to your own potentional.  He was embraced by both white and black families in a way that no other figure in American history had, he was just great.

 

And then he came back.  He won again three times and retired.  He gave me so many memories that cannot be matched.  I can only remember success and never failure.  Yeah, he pushed off, but he hit the shot and he stole the ball on the other end from a future hall of famer. 

 

And then came Kobe, who I hated for trying to be Jordan for showing off in All Star games when everyone’s hero was on his last legs.  Well Kobe has created quite a legacy and will NEVER be Jordan. 

 

I bought into Lebron… He’s is the most impressive athlete and basketball player that I have ever seen.  I never dreamed that my forlorn franchise could ever entice the caliber of player as the King.  Interestingly enough there was a combination of events that had me believing.  First, it was the Brooklyn and the state of the art arena.  No more second class citizens.  Then, the richest owner in sports and a catchy pitch.  But it didn’t work out and I am upset.

 

I love the game of basketball and now I have to root against the player that I thought would be better than the hero that I grew up with – Jordan.  I have to wait on my own team and forego a chance at a championship for at least three years.  I will root for my young core and again wait for the lottery. 

 

But why?

 

Lebron wanted to establish his own legacy?  He will never be better than Jordan now.  Would Jordan have ever jointed Bird or Magic or Hakeem to win his first championship? No.  Would veteran players forego extra money to play with Jordan before he ever had won anything? No.

 

Lebron’s legacy is tainted.  I am 31 years old now and there have been so few times in my life where I have witnessed greatness.  I have never had a child and my own successes have been littered with failure.  Jordan was always able to rise up when I had my doubts and in the process he created a legend.  There’s nothing to root for in Lebron.  He took the easy way out and I root for people who inspire me to do exceptional things.

I keep running all the scenarios through my mind.  O.K., LeBron signs with the Nets.  We would be left without enough cap room to sign: a backup point guard, a shooter, a starting power forward and a backup center.  Even if we "dump the Hump" we will be forced to sign players for the vet minimum.  I don't think there will be many championship caliber players in this area. 

Well, like him or not, the Nets don't seem like they are attached to Devin Harris as his name has come up in numerous trade rumors.  Personally, I like him but wonder how dedicated he is to D and how his frame will hold up over the long haul.  Harris is due to make nearly 9 million dollars next year and that is a reasonable contract and makes him desirable for many teams.  If we could trade Harris to another team for two players we may be able to fill out our roster.  Example (its hard to forecast trades, but here is the type of deal we could do).  Devin Harris and a protected first round pick to Portland for Rudy Fernandez (who wants out) and Andre Miller an older PG, who didn't seem to fit in in Portland.  Plus, Portland has always liked Harris.  Then you trade the Hump with a second round pick and cash for cap space and sign Boozer or Lee, whoever comes for less. 

 

Here is where we would stand

PG: Miller/ T Will/ Uzoh

SG: Lee and Fernandez (I like him and think he would pair well with LeBron)

SF: James/James/ Ross

PF: Lee or Boozer / Favors

C; Lopez / free agent / Zoubeck

 

Now we say we paid the Power Forward 12 million per year, we would be under the cap around 4 million which means we could compete for another free agent for around the mid-level, I like Brad Miller and maybe could fill our next guard spot with K. Dooling at the end of the summer.  We could still trade Ross if we thought that him and James were too similar or could sign two veterans for around 2 million each.  We would have a great deal of flexibility.  Watching the Celtics made me realize how important depth is in the NBA and would be a better team even if Harris may be better than Miller at the point.

YOUR THOUGHTS specifically on trading Harris and some ideas to give us flexibility.  Other possible Harris teams would be the Lakers or Pacers.

I have been on obsessive Nets fan for many years.  I began with the 'Trade Me" written on the shoes of my superstar.  I was given hope when the "star" was traded for the Kidd.  It transformed the franchice  made them a player, but they became a slave to their star.  Thorn made some bad decisions, many of which were tied to keep Kidd happy.

The Kiki era was a necessary evil and Kiki took the blame for the transition to a losing team.  Honestly, we didn't help Kiki's career, but we are in great position today.  It was actually smart ownership and Ratner, with the help of Thorn and (I guess) Kiki the Nets set themselves up nice. 

 

----WE ARE IN GREAT POSITION

Kings Pre-Draft Workout: Ben Uzoh 6/22/10 (via kingsflix)

Here is an interview with Uzoh at the Kings pre-draft workout.  He seems like a mature kid, he is 22 years old.

DraftExpress has this to say about him:

HIS SIZE

Another player who will be helped by his impressive measurements is Tulsa’s Ben Uzoh—at 6-2 ¾ without shoes with a 6-9 wingspan, which is the largest of any of the point guard prospects at the camp. Combine that with his fantastic leaping ability and strong overall athletic ability and you have a very impressive prospect from a physical standpoint. Uzoh still has plenty of wrinkles to iron out in his game, but he’s definitely someone NBA teams will be keeping close tabs on. His measurements are similar to that of Antonio Daniels, just better.

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ben-Uzoh-5838/#ixzz0sRiyFpau
http://www.draftexpress.com
HIS ABILITY

One of the most intriguing long-term talents seen at this event, Ben Uzoh did a very good showing off his strengths and weaknesses and prospects, which have been covered in a good amount of depth already on this site. Seeing his terrific quickness and explosiveness in person was definitely a good thing for us, though, as he was one of the most exciting players to watch in terms of his sheer highlight reel potential.

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ben-Uzoh-5838/#ixzz0sRjKI3mA
http://www.draftexpress.com
THAT SOUNDS EXCITING

Uzoh is actually more than just an entertainer, as he’s actually a fairly steady player who understands his limitations quite well and appears to be pretty unselfish. Not a great ball-handler in terms of changing directions with the ball or creating his own shot, Uzoh plays in an under control manner, picking his spots well and doing a good job limiting mistakes, even if he’s not what you would call a incredibly naturally talented playmaker. A relatively solid shooter with his feet set, he can still stand to improve his ability to make shots off the dribble. Defensively, Uzoh has outstanding physical tools, standing 6-4 in shoes, with a 6-9 wingspan and excellent athleticism.

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Ben-Uzoh-5838/#ixzz0sRjemyUB
http://www.draftexpress.com
HE SOUNDS LIKE HE WILL NEED SOME WORK, BUT HE CAME IN ON A VISIT, SO THE NETS MUST LIKE HIM.  MAY NEED TO SEND HIM TO THE DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE TO START THE SEASON.
OVERALL, SOUND INTRIGUING BUT STILL NOT A NATURAL BACKUP POINT GUARD.  I STILL THINK THEY NEED TO SIGN A VETERAN PURE POINT GUARD.

 

 

 

 

 

People are forgetting that this whole offseason is a game.   The major player that everybody is forgetting is Cleveland.  Yes, the Cavaliers.  Everybody is just assuming that LeBron has all the cards in this offseason game of poker.  We are all seemingly assuming that all the free agents are willing to take a max deal without excepting a sign and trade, losing something like 30 million dollars throughout the life of a contract.

First, we must realize that 30 million dollars is a great deal of many to them as well as you and me.  Additionally, these men have big egos.  Let me ask you a question:  Why would LeBron sign with a team for less than Bosh who already stated that he would like a sign-and-trade deal? 

I'm betting that LeBron won't let that happen - it's an ego thing.  Slowly, we are realizing that cap room is only part of the game.  If the Raptors say to Bosh, "Hey, we're willing to do a sign and trade, it will get you paid and we will look for prospects".  An agent needs to take that into consideration.  The point is... there are many variable in question here. 

I do believe that the Nets have some flexibility.  They have a combination of attractive assets that have been discussed ad naseum.  After the Thorn fiasco you have to wonder whether the Nets are major players or just a step late to make a major statement this offseason.  What do we have to offer LeBron?  I don't think that Newark is the major question. 

Jason Kidd came to the Nets and took them to back to back NBA Finals and the Meadowlands was still a wasteland.  I think that Newark will sell out and the Nets, Prokhorov, and LBJ will make us a media darling.  If you follow the links lately that means a global media darling.  That is the major sell and I believe that behind Yormack and company the Nets will sell it beautifully.  Will LBJ buy in?

A great deal has been written about the debate of Cousins vs. Favors.  I have long been a fan of Favors since a year ago when I realized that the best path to prosperity was a crappy season littered with light from the young talent that the Nets have accumulated.  At one point I like Favors above Wall because I always the Nets have always needed a productive big.  Favors has ability like I have not seen since following the draft or since draftexpress.com has provided access that is reliable and subsantial.  I usually check out nbadraft.com, draftexpress.com, and Youtube videos.  Hardly the a GM worthy information portal but fairly good for a fan.  Favors has the best athleticism/body combination that I have seen in a big other than Howard and Kwame Brown, so we see the danger in potential bigs. 

I just get the feeling that Favors will reach his potential and this comes from my sources which are increasing now with coverage on the internet.  It seems that Netsdaily is currently reserving judgement for some apocalyptic presentation but if we read between the lines all infromation leads to this:

People are very cautious declaring Cousins either a bust or a superstar (other than John Hollinger)

Most favor Favors just for character issues.

Cousins is praised for his skill level and is considered a center not a forward.

Favors is praised for is athleticism and SHOULD be able to play both.

Listen to what Givoney has to say (http://www.sigdomain.com/draftexpress_32.mp3 ) and what and Ryen Russilo (http://espn.go.com/nba/draft ) have to say.  They both seem to think that Favors has the potential to be a once in a lifetime type of player and both cue us in that they believe he will fullfill that potential.

 

Cousins was a very good college player taking advantage of his physical skill i.e. size and length to become incredibly efficient.  In the pros his lack of athleticism will hurt him unless he works hard to develop his skill level, but there are question around this.  Other team (SA and Portland) seem to be interested in Favors.  In workout I feel like he will really shine.  His interviews display that he may not be the brightest player in the world, but plenty of players have been successful without being geniuses.

I really am worried that someone will move up to take Favors at 2.  I think Turner will be a good player, but I have this feeling that Favors will be a franchise Power Forward - bottom line.

Of all the comments from the WFAN interview that have begun discussion there has been little talk of the Russian Surprise arriving in November.  I have a feeling that it may be this Mozgov guy who has been compared to Varejao and has recieved endorsement from Kirilenko.  Not really a big draw, but we may be sleeping on him as a player.

Right now Mozgov is ranked number two in the overseas free agents list by draftexpress.com.  The 23 year-old center "seems to be making big strides in his game year after year and is clearly not a finished product at this point. With his outstanding physical attributes and especially the way he runs the floor, it not out of the question that he could be a much better fit for the more up and down style of play that is found in the NBA than he is for Europe."  This is per December 2009 and is surely the type of pieces that needed to be added to improve our depth. 

Everyone keeps thinking about big name additions with LeBron, but we have complimentary peices.  Mozgov, if he is Varajai-like and a veteran shooter (Ray Allen) would go a long way towards building a championship level global team.

Harris/T-Will/Veteran PG

Allen/Lee/CDR

LeBron/long physical defensive 3 to be drafted/cheap veteran

Favors/Yi and Hump

Lopez/Mozgov/ drafted for of 5

 

I welcome the speculation.

 

Many posters have discussed the ideal free agent acquisitions that combine to make the ideal team.  Looking at many of them it seems like the peices do not necessarily fit into a cohesive unit to make a championship team.  The fun and interesting aspect of the Nets offseason is that there are so many different possibilities with the comination of cap space, trades, the draft, draft picks and young talent that Thorn has endless options to lay the foundation for a championship team.  The question now remains, what constitutes a championship team?  Let's take a look at past winners.

Lakers:  This is what I call a superstar team.  The superstar here is Kobe.  Most NBA champions are built around a superstar.  The Heat had Wade, the Spurs had Duncan, the Bulls - Jordan.  The Nets do not have a superstar, but our fans are stargazing at LeBron, Wade, and Wall.  I believe that those are the only legitamate superstars on the market this summer.

Now there are two types of superstar teams one that revoles around a dominant low post man and one that revolves around a dominant guard.  Each player needs a Robin to save them when Batman gets in trouble.  Other than the Bulls with Jordan it seems like that player cannot play in the same area, i.e. if a guard he needs a post player or if a post player he needs complimentary guards.  I think that Nets have the complimentary player in Lopez.  Now Lopez will be a star but not a superstar in my opinion.  He's more Ginobli or Parker than an old Shaq, young Kobe, or Pippen.  This means the Nets need another star to compliment superstar.  In these teams you fill in the roster with defensive minded role players and at least one shooter who does not need the ball.  The Nets have Williams, Lee, and Harris who could serve the role as defensive minded role players.  The Nets have no shooter.

Odds are the Nets whiff on LeBron and Kobe, there is only a 25 percent chance that they hit on Wall.  There is hope that if they do not get their superstar, they can still build a championship team.  There are Celtics and the Pistons, who had a host of complimentary players who played great team defense.  You still need a shooter, Rip Hamilton or Ray Allen.  You need a defensive presence in low post Garnett or the Wallaces.  You need a point guard who can defend and distribute if you do not have a wing who can handle the ball.  The Pistons had Billups and the Celtics had a young Rondo who was aided by Pierce.

Bottom Line:  the Nets have to play MUCH better defense to be a chamionship caliber team, that is where the new coach fits in.  The Nets need a low post defensive presence.  This is not Bosh, not Nowitski, and I'm not sure that it is Lee.  I think that is why so many of us are so intriqued by Favors, he should be able to learn how to play good defense with good coaching fairly quickly.  Cousins is an offensive minded post player and they already have one in Lopez.  The Nets need a shooter.  Can Lee become that? Maybe.  I like the idea of trading for Rip, he brings a championship pedigree, good defense, and an expanding three point shot.  The Nets needs a superstar or star wing.  Turner fits the bill as a star wing and Wall fits the bill as a superstar.  It seems likely that they will draft one peice.  Then the question will become:  where do they get the four or where do they get the wing?

Again...

My Dream Team

(you gotta believe that Prokhorov's money guarantees the to be filled in later players, the key is to get the right core)

PG: Williams/Harris

SG: Hamilton/Lee

SF: LeBron/CDR, draft pick, can be filled in later

PF: Favors/ Yi

C: Lopez/ Draft pick/Russian Big Man or to be filled in later

Can LeBron be conviced that this is championship worthy?  If not I think the Nets need to go the Oklahoma Portland route and just continue to add peices.