DonMagicJuan
June-15th-2004, 12:49 PM
Thanks to the KINGofVA of niketalk.com
Walker, Kittles among top names unprotected
By Chad Ford
Teams submitted their list of unprotected players to the league Friday in anticipation of the Bobcats' expansion draft. In an unusual move, the league has decided to keep the list confidential and has threatened to fine teams up to $1 million for divulging which players they declined to protect.
Nevertheless, Insider has compiled through team and league sources, as well as player agents, a team-by-team list of players available to the Bobcats. Given the league's veil of secrecy surrounding the unprotected lists, most names could not be confirmed from two independent sources. However, we're confident our list closely resembles the one Bernie Bickerstaff and company will have in front of them on June 22.
Each NBA team is allowed to protect up to eight players and must leave at least one unprotected. With unrestricted free agents ineligible for the expansion draft, the number of unprotected players varies from one to seven for each team.
Here's a look at the players Insider believes are available in the expansion draft. In cases where we have been unable to confirm whether a player is on the list, we note it in the comments:
Key: * = restricted free agent | bold = possible target for the Bobcats
Atlanta Hawks: Alan Henderson
Insider analysis: No real surprise here and no real chance the Bobcats will select Henderson. While his contract does expire after next season, there are better options on the board.
Boston Celtics: Chucky Atkins, Ernest Brown*, Jumaine Jones, Brandon Hunter, Michael Stewart
Insider analysis: Atkins could be a target for the Bobcats. He makes a reasonable amount of money for a starting point guard, and he has only two years remaining on his contract. Hunter also could be an interesting pick here. He played well for Boston last year, and he's young, tough and could get real minutes in Charlotte.
Chicago Bulls: Antonio Davis, Ronald Dupree*, Marcus Fizer*, Scottie Pippen, Eddie Robinson, Jerome Williams
Insider analysis: The Bulls loaded their list with untouchables. Fizer is the only one who makes some sense for Charlotte. But remember, because he's a restricted free agent, he becomes unrestricted if the Bobcats draft him. There's no guarantee he'd stick around. Dupree also is a possibility. He's cheap, has great athletic ability and showed some promise last season.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Ruben Boumtje Boumtje*, Jason Kapono, Ira Newble, Kevin Ollie
Insider analysis: The Cavaliers' two prize free-agent acquisitions last summer are both on the list. The Cavs would love to cut a deal with the Bobcats to take Ollie off their hands. Kapono is a guy the Bobcats will seriously consider drafting. He's one of the better shooters on the board and comes cheap.
Dallas Mavericks: Tariq Abdul Wahad, Tony Delk, Danny Fortson, Antoine Walker
Insider analysis: Walker is an interesting addition to the list. However, because of his huge contract, there's no way Charlotte will draft him unless they have a trade worked out in advance. Everyone else on the list is too expensive and can't really play.
Denver Nuggets: Jeff Trepagnier*
Insider analysis: Trepagnier's agent is already trying to get him a job in Charlotte. He's cheap and young, so you never know.
Detroit Pistons: Elden Campbell
Insider analysis: The Pistons don't have to submit their list until the Finals are over; however, Campbell will be the only guy on it. Look for Detroit to cut a deal to send a a future first-rounder and $3 million in cash to the Bobcats in exchange for drafting Campbell and removing him from the Pistons' cap. That would help Detroit in its efforts to re-sign Rasheed Wallace and Mehmet Okur. With the $3 million, Charlotte's share of Campbell's salary next season would be a palatable $1.4 million. After next season, he comes off the books.
Golden State Warriors: J.R. Bremer*, Evan Eschmeyer, Popeye Jones
Insider analysis: Ugh. Pass.
Houston Rockets: Adrian Griffin, Eric Piatkowski, Maurice Taylor
Insider analysis: Taylor is the best player here, but given his contract, there's no way he'll be selected. Piatkowski could be an interesting veteran for the Bobcats to consider. His salary over the next two years is reasonable, he can still shoot it, and he'd be a nice mentor to the young guys they plan on bringing aboard.
Indiana Pacers: Primoz Brezec, Austin Croshere, Anthony Johnson, James Jones, Scot Pollard
Insider analysis: Another interesting list. Brezec is one of the best young centers on the board, and the Pacers are very high on Jones. Both could come cheap.
Los Angeles Clippers: Matt Barnes*, Keyon Dooling*, Predrag Drobnjak, Eddie House, Josh Moore*
Insider analysis: Dooling is a possibility, but the team will have to deal with him as an unrestricted free agent. No one else on the roster makes much sense.
Los Angeles Lakers: Derek Fisher, Rick Fox, Jamal Sampson
Insider analysis: This is a projected list. The Lakers don't have to submit their list until after the Finals. Other possibilities are Devean George and Brian Cook. Fisher could be tempting to the Bobcats -- his salary isn't guaranteed in 2004-05.
Memphis Grizzlies: Troy Bell, Ryan Humphrey, Dahntay Jones, Bo Outlaw, Theron Smith, Jake Tsakalidis*, Lorenzen Wright
Insider analysis: The Grizzlies have the best list in the expansion draft. The Bobcats could take any of the players here, but they're allowed to draft only one. Bell could be the starting point guard next season on the expansion team. Outlaw is the type of veteran, energy guy who could help the Bobcats' rookies. Smith, who went undrafted last year, has a lot of upside and looked great in the summer league. Bottom line: The Grizzlies are going to lose a player.
Miami Heat: Brian Grant, Eddie Jones, Loren Woods*
Insider analysis: The Heat would love for the Bobcats to take Jones off their hands, but there's very little chance given Jones' huge salary over the next three years.
Milwaukee Bucks: Brian Skinner, Erick Strickland
Insider analysis: I'm a little stunned Skinner is on the list considering how well he played in Milwaukee last year. He can opt out of his contract, which means he may be an unrestricted free agent before the draft ever takes place. He has a terrible history of injuries, but given his reasonable salary for only one more year, he's another veteran who'd make a lot of sense in Charlotte.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Ervin Johnson
Insider analysis: He's big, but I don't see the Bobcats having a lot of interest. He does have only one year left on his contract. Would the Bobcats draft him, then move him to another team?
New Jersey Nets: Kerry Kittles, Alonzo Mourning, Rodney Rogers, Tamar Slay*
Insider analysis: Kittles was a big surprise. There will be a temptation for the Bobcats here. He has only one year at $9.9 million left on his deal. But remember, that's one third of Charlotte's salary cap. Slay is a more likely pick. He's shown some promise over the past two years and comes with a cheap price tag.
New Orleans Hornets: Courtney Alexander*, David Wesley
Insider analysis: Wesley is obviously on the outs in New Orleans. He played in Charlotte before moving to New Orleans, but it's unlikely the Bobcats want the $10 million remaining on his contract.
New York Knicks: Shandon Anderson, Anfernee Hardaway, Allan Houston, Moochie Norris, Cezary Trybanski
Insider analysis: How bad is the Knicks' salary cap position? They exposed several of their cheapest players, and they're still so expensive the Bobcats won't be willing to touch them.
Orlando Magic: Reece Gaines, Britton Johnsen*, Zaza Pachulia*, DeShawn Stevenson*
Insider analysis: The Magic list will turn some heads. They exposed several of their more interesting young players. Stevenson and Pachulia could get a lot of interest. Pachulia is the best young center available, and Stevenson showed flashes last season that he's finally getting it. Gaines is another possibility. He bombed in Orlando last season, but he still was a top 15 draft pick last year.
Philadelphia 76ers: Greg Buckner, Derrick Coleman, Marc Jackson, Todd MacCulloch, Aaron McKie
Insider analysis: I think the Sixers can forget about getting any relief here. Their list is almost as bad as the Knicks'.
Phoenix Suns: Howard Eisley, Jahidi White
Insider analysis: The Suns will try to entice the Bobcats to take the last year of White's deal. They could offer cash and one of their future first-rounders (perhaps the one owed them by the Cavs) with White. However, they're adamant they won't give up their No. 7 pick just to get White off the books. The Bobcats should be able to move White on to a playoff contender looking for another big.
Blazers: Omar Cook, Dan Dickau, Desmond Ferguson*, Eddie Gill, Ruben Patterson, Vladimir Stepania, Qyntel Woods
Insider analysis: The team could have exposed one of their higher-priced players like Damon Stoudamire, Dale Davis or Derek Anderson, but instead it sounds like they're ready to give up on Woods. He's athletic, a big-time scorer, and -- if he can get that marijuana problem under control -- could be the steal of the expansion draft for Charlotte.
Sacramento Kings: Gerald Wallace
Insider analysis: This came down to a choice between Doug Christie and Wallace. It was unlikely the Bobcats would've swallowed Christie's contract, but the Kings didn't want to risk it. Instead, they decided to dump Wallace, an athletic player who just never panned out in Sacramento. Wallace still has a lot of potential. This is a no-brainer for the Bobcats. Expect them to snatch him up.
San Antonio Spurs: Matt Carroll, Malik Rose, Charlie Ward
Insider analysis: The Spurs would love to dump Rose and his big contract, but right now it's tough to believe the Bobcats would be willing to swallow the remaining five years and $34 million. Ward has a $1.1 million player option on his contract. If he opts out, he's off the list.
Seattle SuperSonics: Calvin Booth, Richie Frahm*, Jerome James, Vitaly Potapenko
Insider analysis: James will be a temptation for the Bobcats if he's actually on the list. We've heard conflicting information here. One source claims he is. One source claims Reggie Evans is the guy, instead. If James is available, Charlotte would have to consider taking him. He's big, only has one year left on his contract and still has some upside. Are the Bobcats willing to spend the $5.4 million?
Toronto Raptors: Lamond Murray, Jalen Rose, Alvin Williams
Insider analysis: New Raptors GM Rob Babcock wishes he could get so lucky. Too much money, too little talent for the Bobcats to take anyone on this list.
Utah Jazz: Curtis Borchardt, Aleksandar Pavlovic
Insider analysis: To me, Pavlovic is the most shocking name on the entire list. He was the Jazz's first-round draft pick last season and played very well in the 14 mpg Jerry Sloan gave him. The Jazz reportedly were very high on him and easily could have exposed a less valuable player. What gives? Most likely, the Jazz and Bobcats have worked out some sort of deal in which Charlotte will draft Pavlovic, then send Utah something in compensation for making him available.
Washington Wizards: Juan Dixon, Christian Laettner, Jerry Stackhouse
Insider analysis: The Wizards are another team that will try to work out a deal with the Bobcats. They don't really need their No. 5 pick and really could use the cap space to sign a top-flight free agent. Will they dangle the pick in return for Charlotte taking Stackhouse, who just isn't a good fit in Washington any more? Laettner, who has only one year left on his contract, would be an easier player for the Bobcats to swallow, but the Wizards would be less likely to give up their No. 5 just to clear that contract off the books.
Expansion Draft Rules
-Unrestricted free agents are ineligible for the expansion draft.
-Each team can protect up to eight players. If a team has less than eight players on their roster to protect, they still must leave a minimum of one player unprotected.
-The Bobcats must select a minimum of 14 players and can select a maximum of 29 players overall.
-The Bobcats can only select one player per team.
-The Bobcats are not bound to the salary cap during the draft. They can take on as many contracts as they like. However, once the draft is over, any players that they've drafted and keep count toward their cap (it should come in at around $29 million).
-As long as the Bobcats waive a player drafted in the expansion draft before the first day of the regular season, the player's remaining contract does not count against the Bobcats' salary cap.
-Restricted free agents drafted in the expansion draft automatically become unrestricted free agents.
-Teams are allowed to entice the Bobcats to select players by offering cash, draft picks or agreeing to additional trades in return.
-If a team has a player selected by the Bobcats, the team receives a trade exception equal to the player's 2004-05 salary. This allows teams to replace a player lost in the expansion draft with another player of comparable salary.
Mock Draft: Clippers could pass on Howard
By Chad Ford
With Chicago pre-draft camp is behind us, we can start weeding the field in advance of Thursday's deadline for underclassmen to withdraw from the NBA draft. From what we hear, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Kosta Perovic, Tiago Splitter, Johan Petro, Roko Leni Ukic, Ryan Gomes and Lawrence Roberts, among others, are planning to opt out. So for purposes of this mock, we're leaving them off the list.
The biggest mover this time around is prep point guard Shaun Livingston, whom we have being selected No. 2. If the Clippers don't trade the pick, chances are they'll take someone they can use more than Dwight Howard. If they trade, all bets are off. We should point out, though, that as many teams are trying to trade up for Livingston as they are for Howard.
The other big change is Oregon's Luke Jackson, who cracks the lottery in our projection for the first time after a series of stellar workouts.
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1. ORLANDO MAGIC
Emeka Okafor
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 257 | AGE: 21
He measured a legit 6-foot-10 with shoes (and had an amazing 7-foot-4 wingspan) in Chicago, quieting critics who claimed he's too small to play center in the league. Now we just need to find out about his back. He claims it hasn't bothered him since before the Final Four. Either the Magic will draft him, or the Bobcats or Bulls will trade up to No. 1 to get him.
Insider scouting report on Emeka Okafor
2. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Shaun Livingston
PEORIA H.S. (ILL.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7½ | WEIGHT: 186 | AGE: 18
The Clippers are trying to trade down, but if they elect not to, it will be because they've joined the growing throng in the NBA that believes Livingston -- not Howard -- is the best high school player in this draft. He's young, but he fills a need, and in the next two years he easily could become the Clips' best player.
Insider scouting report on Shaun Livingston
3. CHICAGO BULLS
Andre Iguodala
ARIZONA | SOPHOMORE | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 217 | AGE: 19
The Bulls like Iguodala, Luol Deng and Josh Childress. However, of those three, Iguodala has the most upside. He's the most athletic, the best defender, a superior passer and may be the most ready to step in and contribute right away.
Insider scouting report on Andre Iguodala
4. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Dwight Howard
SW ATLANTA CHRISTIAN H.S. | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10¼ | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18
If Howard goes No. 2, the word out of Charlotte is Josh Childress will go here. However, it's becoming more conceivable that Howard could slip to this spot. If he does, Bernie Bickerstaff, who claims he doesn't really want a high school guy, will have no choice but to select Howard.
Insider scouting report on Dwight Howard
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Luol Deng
DUKE | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 19
The Wizards already have more small forwards than any team in the league, but Deng is way ahead of both Jared Jeffries and Jarvis Hayes. They'll also give Childress and Andris Biedrins a long look here.
Insider scouting report on Luol Deng
6. ATLANTA HAWKS
Josh Smith
OAK HILL ACADEMY | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8¼ | WEIGHT: 221 | AGE: 18
The Hawks are working on a trade for this pick with the Clippers. If Atlanta keeps the pick, Smith makes a lot of sense. He's gotten some bad press over the past week, but his big-time athleticism and game will sell some tickets in Atlanta. If the trade happens, and if the Clips get Jason Terry as part of it, they'll likely draft Pavel Podkolzine at this spot. If they pick up Atlanta's extra pick instead, Livingston will be the guy. They need a point guard in the worst way.
Insider scouting report on Josh Smith
7. PHOENIX SUNS
Devin Harris
WISCONSIN | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 20
If Marytnas Andriuskevicius keeps him name in the draft, pencil him in here. If not, the Suns likely will select Harris. Leandrinho Barbosa is more of a combo guard, and it looks like Milos Vujanic might not be coming next season, after all. Besides, Harris is better than both and should be able to step right in and help Phoenix. Is he the next Kevin Johnson?
Insider scouting report on Devin Harris
8. TORONTO RAPTORS
Ben Gordon
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-2¼ | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 21
The Raptors need a big in the worst way and both Podkolzine and Biedrins are real options here. But I'm not sure new GM Rob Babcock has the stomach to take on a project right now. Gordon's workouts have been lights out. A combo of Gordon and Carter in the backcourt makes a lot of sense.
Insider scouting report on Ben Gordon
9. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Josh Childress
STANFORD | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7¼ | WEIGHT: 196 | AGE: 20
The Bulls, Bobcats and Wizards all love Childress so he could end up going much higher. However, if he does slip, he won't get past Philly. Childress' length, athleticism and great defensive effort are a great fit in Philly.
Insider scouting report on Josh Childress
10. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Luke Jackson
OREGON | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 212 | AGE: 22
The Cavs are trying to trade this pick for a veteran small forward who can shoot. The word around the league is they've targeted the Wolves' Wally Szczerbiak. If they can't cut a deal before the draft, look for them to take Jackson. He's been wowing teams in workouts and makes a lot of sense alongside LeBron.
Insider scouting report on Luke Jackson
11. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Pavel Podkolzine
RUSSIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-5 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 19
The reward really starts outweighing the risk if Podkolzine slips this low. There isn't a player on the board worth passing him up for now. The Warriors look like they're losing both Erick Dampier and Adonal Foyle, meaning they'll have a gaping hole to fill in the middle. No one fills it bet than Pavel.
Insider scouting report on Pavel Podkolzine
12. SEATTLE SUPERSONICS
Andris Biedrins
LATVIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18
Biedrins may be slipping just a little bit. He could go as high as Washington at No. 5 or to the Raptors at No. 8, but it's tough to believe he would slip past Seattle here. Biedrins is tall, athletic, plays tough defense and is more ready to play than most Euros. He's already better than any of the three centers in Seattle.
Insider scouting report on Andris Biedrins
13. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Kirk Snyder
NEVADA | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 228 | AGE: 21
Snyder's agent recently canceled his workouts with the Jazz, Celtics and Nuggets. The teams claim Snyder got a promise. His agent cites "scheduling difficulties." Whether there's a promise or not, Snyder's a great fit in Portland. He's a jack of all trades, and the Blazers' backcourt needs someone like that.
Insider scouting report on Kirk Snyder
14. UTAH JAZZ
Sergei Monya
RUSSIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 20
The Jazz claim they have not made a promise to Monya. Fine. But they still have interest, and the Russian-Marc Fleisher connection is too good to pass up. Besides, Monya is the most NBA-ready Euro in the draft. They'll love him in Utah.
Insider scouting report on Sergei Monya
15. BOSTON CELTICS
Rafael Araujo
BYU | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 280 | AGE: 23
The Celtics want Monya, but it's unlikely he'll get past Utah at No. 14. That means the decision comes down to Araujo, Robert Swift or Peter John Ramos. The Celtics like all three, but after spending an hour talking with Danny Ainge last week, my gut says they'll go with Araujo.
Insider scouting report on Rafael Araujo
16. UTAH JAZZ
Peja Samardziski
MACEDONIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 17
Ainge gets his revenge for the Jazz taking Monya at 14 by selecting Araujo, the other player Utah has high on its board. The Jazz need some bigs in the worst way, and the best three left are Samardziski, Robert Swift and Peter John Ramos. None are ready to play in the NBA next season. Of the three, Samardziski is the best fit -- a smart basketball player with a great outside touch and a clever game.
Insider scouting report on Peja Samardziski
17. ATLANTA HAWKS
Al Jefferson
PRENTISS H.S. (MISS.) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9¾ | WEIGHT: 263 | AGE: 18
He measured well in Chicago and has been moving up with some strong workouts over the past few weeks. Jefferson isn't the best athlete in the draft at his size, but he's quick off the floor, has good strength and is as consistent as a high school kid can get. He could do some damage in the paint for the Hawks next season.
Insider scouting report on Al Jefferson
18. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
J.R. Smith
ST. BENEDICT PREP (N.J.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 227 | AGE: 18
Allan Bristow claims there's only a 30 percent chance his team would take a high school kid, but I can't see Smith slipping past here. He fills a big need, is an unbelievable athlete, can shoot it and should be a staple in the backcourt with Baron Davis for years.
Insider scouting report on J.R. Smith
19. MIAMI HEAT
Robert Swift
BAKERSFIELD H.S. (CALIF.) | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 18
This comes down to a tough decision between Swift and Jameer Nelson. While the Heat are confident they'll get their hands on Mark Blount in free agency, he'll need help. Miami is one of several teams that are very high on Swift, and at No. 19 he's a steal. Nelson also would be a nice fit here, but he's more of a back-up point guard in the league, and the Heat have plenty of those.
Insider scouting report on Robert Swift
20. DENVER NUGGETS
Peter John Ramos
PUERTO RICO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-3¼ | WEIGHT: 266 | AGE: 19
There are a number of guys the Nuggets will look at here, but it likely will come down to Ramos or Frenchman Johan Petro. The problem is that Petro is looking for a promise before he commits to staying in the draft. The Nuggets aren't ready to give one, given the draft's volatility. If Petro pulls out, Ramos slips in. He's been dominant in Puerto Rico this spring, and the Nuggets know they need a big guy to replace Marcus Camby when he catches a hangnail (what's the over-under on how many games Camby misses once he signs his new long-term contract?).
Insider scouting report on Peter John Ramos
21. UTAH JAZZ
Kris Humphries
MINNESOTA | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9½ | WEIGHT: 238 | AGE: 20
The Jazz took two international players with their first two picks, so look for them to grab at least one American player. Humphries put up huge numbers at Minnesota last season. He can play both the four and the three, giving the Jazz some flexibility down the road.
Insider scouting report on Kris Humphries
22. NEW JERSEY NETS
Jameer Nelson
SAINT JOSEPH'S | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0½ | WEIGHT: 199 | AGE: 23
The Nets breathe a big sigh of relief. With Jason Kidd likely to miss the start of the season with knee problems, the Nets need someone who can play now. Nelson will be great in spot-starting duty and a wonderful sub for Kidd down the road.
Insider scouting report on Jameer Nelson
23. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Sebastian Telfair
LINCOLN H.S. (BROOKLYN, N.Y.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 5-11 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 18
It may be hard to believe that a prospect with such a big shoe contract can slip this far. Telfair very well could go a lot higher, or slip out of the first round completely. There are a lot of different opinions about him. I think this may be the best fit for Telfair, for two reasons. One, the Blazers need help at the point. Damon Stoudamire is in the last year of his contract, and Portland needs to replace him. It gives them a year to ease in Telfair. Two, the Blazers need a boost at the box office, and Telfair, for all of his faults, will provide that.
Insider scouting report on Sebastian Telfair
24. BOSTON CELTICS
Dorell Wright
SOUTH KENT PREP (CT) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 18
Ainge claims they're looking for a tall wing player, and Wright looks like a good fit. Everyone who sees him play believes Wright has the potential to be a star in the league. It's just going to take a little while for his body to develop.
Insider scouting report on Dorell Wright
25. BOSTON CELTICS
Viktor Khryapa
RUSSIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 22
The Celtics wanted Monya but end up with his teammate, Khryapa. At 6-9, he has the ability to play small forward. He's a good shooter, a better than average athlete and uses his long arms to harass opponents on the defensive end. He's another guy who really has helped himself in workouts. Ainge, not wanting three rookies on the roster, likely would leave him in Europe another year or two.
Insider scouting report on Viktor Khryapa
26. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Donta Smith
SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS CC | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 20
The Kings are as high on him as anyone. Smith is a big-time athlete with a great NBA body. He was a potent JC scorer and a decent defender. He's a project, but with the team likely losing Gerald Wallace, he's a good replacement.
Insider scouting report on Donta Smith
27. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Sasha Vujacic
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 19
Vujacic impressed scouts with his phenomenal shooting touch and extra 15 pounds of muscle in workouts in Chicago. He's not a pure point guard and not the quickest guy in the world, but the way the Lakers play (as long as they keep Shaquille O'Neal, that is) he'll be a great fit planting himself on the NBA 3-point line and waiting for Shaq to kick it out.
Insider scouting report on Sasha Vujacic
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Anderson Varejao
BRAZIL | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
The Spurs have loved him for two years, and he's a nice fit in the organization. He's long, athletic, experienced and plays with a ton of energy. He's a guy who can step right in and be a valuable role player coming off the bench.
Insider scouting report on Anderson Varejao
29. INDIANA PACERS
Beno Udrih
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 185 | AGE: 22
History says at least one player from the Chicago pre-draft camp makes it into the first round. This year, that guy may be Udrih. He was the best player in the camp last week. At 22, he has more experience than most of the Euros, and he has great size for a point. The Pacers have been following his career closely for several years. With his shooting and experience, he'd be a nice fit in the Pacers' backcourt.
Walker, Kittles among top names unprotected
By Chad Ford
Teams submitted their list of unprotected players to the league Friday in anticipation of the Bobcats' expansion draft. In an unusual move, the league has decided to keep the list confidential and has threatened to fine teams up to $1 million for divulging which players they declined to protect.
Nevertheless, Insider has compiled through team and league sources, as well as player agents, a team-by-team list of players available to the Bobcats. Given the league's veil of secrecy surrounding the unprotected lists, most names could not be confirmed from two independent sources. However, we're confident our list closely resembles the one Bernie Bickerstaff and company will have in front of them on June 22.
Each NBA team is allowed to protect up to eight players and must leave at least one unprotected. With unrestricted free agents ineligible for the expansion draft, the number of unprotected players varies from one to seven for each team.
Here's a look at the players Insider believes are available in the expansion draft. In cases where we have been unable to confirm whether a player is on the list, we note it in the comments:
Key: * = restricted free agent | bold = possible target for the Bobcats
Atlanta Hawks: Alan Henderson
Insider analysis: No real surprise here and no real chance the Bobcats will select Henderson. While his contract does expire after next season, there are better options on the board.
Boston Celtics: Chucky Atkins, Ernest Brown*, Jumaine Jones, Brandon Hunter, Michael Stewart
Insider analysis: Atkins could be a target for the Bobcats. He makes a reasonable amount of money for a starting point guard, and he has only two years remaining on his contract. Hunter also could be an interesting pick here. He played well for Boston last year, and he's young, tough and could get real minutes in Charlotte.
Chicago Bulls: Antonio Davis, Ronald Dupree*, Marcus Fizer*, Scottie Pippen, Eddie Robinson, Jerome Williams
Insider analysis: The Bulls loaded their list with untouchables. Fizer is the only one who makes some sense for Charlotte. But remember, because he's a restricted free agent, he becomes unrestricted if the Bobcats draft him. There's no guarantee he'd stick around. Dupree also is a possibility. He's cheap, has great athletic ability and showed some promise last season.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Ruben Boumtje Boumtje*, Jason Kapono, Ira Newble, Kevin Ollie
Insider analysis: The Cavaliers' two prize free-agent acquisitions last summer are both on the list. The Cavs would love to cut a deal with the Bobcats to take Ollie off their hands. Kapono is a guy the Bobcats will seriously consider drafting. He's one of the better shooters on the board and comes cheap.
Dallas Mavericks: Tariq Abdul Wahad, Tony Delk, Danny Fortson, Antoine Walker
Insider analysis: Walker is an interesting addition to the list. However, because of his huge contract, there's no way Charlotte will draft him unless they have a trade worked out in advance. Everyone else on the list is too expensive and can't really play.
Denver Nuggets: Jeff Trepagnier*
Insider analysis: Trepagnier's agent is already trying to get him a job in Charlotte. He's cheap and young, so you never know.
Detroit Pistons: Elden Campbell
Insider analysis: The Pistons don't have to submit their list until the Finals are over; however, Campbell will be the only guy on it. Look for Detroit to cut a deal to send a a future first-rounder and $3 million in cash to the Bobcats in exchange for drafting Campbell and removing him from the Pistons' cap. That would help Detroit in its efforts to re-sign Rasheed Wallace and Mehmet Okur. With the $3 million, Charlotte's share of Campbell's salary next season would be a palatable $1.4 million. After next season, he comes off the books.
Golden State Warriors: J.R. Bremer*, Evan Eschmeyer, Popeye Jones
Insider analysis: Ugh. Pass.
Houston Rockets: Adrian Griffin, Eric Piatkowski, Maurice Taylor
Insider analysis: Taylor is the best player here, but given his contract, there's no way he'll be selected. Piatkowski could be an interesting veteran for the Bobcats to consider. His salary over the next two years is reasonable, he can still shoot it, and he'd be a nice mentor to the young guys they plan on bringing aboard.
Indiana Pacers: Primoz Brezec, Austin Croshere, Anthony Johnson, James Jones, Scot Pollard
Insider analysis: Another interesting list. Brezec is one of the best young centers on the board, and the Pacers are very high on Jones. Both could come cheap.
Los Angeles Clippers: Matt Barnes*, Keyon Dooling*, Predrag Drobnjak, Eddie House, Josh Moore*
Insider analysis: Dooling is a possibility, but the team will have to deal with him as an unrestricted free agent. No one else on the roster makes much sense.
Los Angeles Lakers: Derek Fisher, Rick Fox, Jamal Sampson
Insider analysis: This is a projected list. The Lakers don't have to submit their list until after the Finals. Other possibilities are Devean George and Brian Cook. Fisher could be tempting to the Bobcats -- his salary isn't guaranteed in 2004-05.
Memphis Grizzlies: Troy Bell, Ryan Humphrey, Dahntay Jones, Bo Outlaw, Theron Smith, Jake Tsakalidis*, Lorenzen Wright
Insider analysis: The Grizzlies have the best list in the expansion draft. The Bobcats could take any of the players here, but they're allowed to draft only one. Bell could be the starting point guard next season on the expansion team. Outlaw is the type of veteran, energy guy who could help the Bobcats' rookies. Smith, who went undrafted last year, has a lot of upside and looked great in the summer league. Bottom line: The Grizzlies are going to lose a player.
Miami Heat: Brian Grant, Eddie Jones, Loren Woods*
Insider analysis: The Heat would love for the Bobcats to take Jones off their hands, but there's very little chance given Jones' huge salary over the next three years.
Milwaukee Bucks: Brian Skinner, Erick Strickland
Insider analysis: I'm a little stunned Skinner is on the list considering how well he played in Milwaukee last year. He can opt out of his contract, which means he may be an unrestricted free agent before the draft ever takes place. He has a terrible history of injuries, but given his reasonable salary for only one more year, he's another veteran who'd make a lot of sense in Charlotte.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Ervin Johnson
Insider analysis: He's big, but I don't see the Bobcats having a lot of interest. He does have only one year left on his contract. Would the Bobcats draft him, then move him to another team?
New Jersey Nets: Kerry Kittles, Alonzo Mourning, Rodney Rogers, Tamar Slay*
Insider analysis: Kittles was a big surprise. There will be a temptation for the Bobcats here. He has only one year at $9.9 million left on his deal. But remember, that's one third of Charlotte's salary cap. Slay is a more likely pick. He's shown some promise over the past two years and comes with a cheap price tag.
New Orleans Hornets: Courtney Alexander*, David Wesley
Insider analysis: Wesley is obviously on the outs in New Orleans. He played in Charlotte before moving to New Orleans, but it's unlikely the Bobcats want the $10 million remaining on his contract.
New York Knicks: Shandon Anderson, Anfernee Hardaway, Allan Houston, Moochie Norris, Cezary Trybanski
Insider analysis: How bad is the Knicks' salary cap position? They exposed several of their cheapest players, and they're still so expensive the Bobcats won't be willing to touch them.
Orlando Magic: Reece Gaines, Britton Johnsen*, Zaza Pachulia*, DeShawn Stevenson*
Insider analysis: The Magic list will turn some heads. They exposed several of their more interesting young players. Stevenson and Pachulia could get a lot of interest. Pachulia is the best young center available, and Stevenson showed flashes last season that he's finally getting it. Gaines is another possibility. He bombed in Orlando last season, but he still was a top 15 draft pick last year.
Philadelphia 76ers: Greg Buckner, Derrick Coleman, Marc Jackson, Todd MacCulloch, Aaron McKie
Insider analysis: I think the Sixers can forget about getting any relief here. Their list is almost as bad as the Knicks'.
Phoenix Suns: Howard Eisley, Jahidi White
Insider analysis: The Suns will try to entice the Bobcats to take the last year of White's deal. They could offer cash and one of their future first-rounders (perhaps the one owed them by the Cavs) with White. However, they're adamant they won't give up their No. 7 pick just to get White off the books. The Bobcats should be able to move White on to a playoff contender looking for another big.
Blazers: Omar Cook, Dan Dickau, Desmond Ferguson*, Eddie Gill, Ruben Patterson, Vladimir Stepania, Qyntel Woods
Insider analysis: The team could have exposed one of their higher-priced players like Damon Stoudamire, Dale Davis or Derek Anderson, but instead it sounds like they're ready to give up on Woods. He's athletic, a big-time scorer, and -- if he can get that marijuana problem under control -- could be the steal of the expansion draft for Charlotte.
Sacramento Kings: Gerald Wallace
Insider analysis: This came down to a choice between Doug Christie and Wallace. It was unlikely the Bobcats would've swallowed Christie's contract, but the Kings didn't want to risk it. Instead, they decided to dump Wallace, an athletic player who just never panned out in Sacramento. Wallace still has a lot of potential. This is a no-brainer for the Bobcats. Expect them to snatch him up.
San Antonio Spurs: Matt Carroll, Malik Rose, Charlie Ward
Insider analysis: The Spurs would love to dump Rose and his big contract, but right now it's tough to believe the Bobcats would be willing to swallow the remaining five years and $34 million. Ward has a $1.1 million player option on his contract. If he opts out, he's off the list.
Seattle SuperSonics: Calvin Booth, Richie Frahm*, Jerome James, Vitaly Potapenko
Insider analysis: James will be a temptation for the Bobcats if he's actually on the list. We've heard conflicting information here. One source claims he is. One source claims Reggie Evans is the guy, instead. If James is available, Charlotte would have to consider taking him. He's big, only has one year left on his contract and still has some upside. Are the Bobcats willing to spend the $5.4 million?
Toronto Raptors: Lamond Murray, Jalen Rose, Alvin Williams
Insider analysis: New Raptors GM Rob Babcock wishes he could get so lucky. Too much money, too little talent for the Bobcats to take anyone on this list.
Utah Jazz: Curtis Borchardt, Aleksandar Pavlovic
Insider analysis: To me, Pavlovic is the most shocking name on the entire list. He was the Jazz's first-round draft pick last season and played very well in the 14 mpg Jerry Sloan gave him. The Jazz reportedly were very high on him and easily could have exposed a less valuable player. What gives? Most likely, the Jazz and Bobcats have worked out some sort of deal in which Charlotte will draft Pavlovic, then send Utah something in compensation for making him available.
Washington Wizards: Juan Dixon, Christian Laettner, Jerry Stackhouse
Insider analysis: The Wizards are another team that will try to work out a deal with the Bobcats. They don't really need their No. 5 pick and really could use the cap space to sign a top-flight free agent. Will they dangle the pick in return for Charlotte taking Stackhouse, who just isn't a good fit in Washington any more? Laettner, who has only one year left on his contract, would be an easier player for the Bobcats to swallow, but the Wizards would be less likely to give up their No. 5 just to clear that contract off the books.
Expansion Draft Rules
-Unrestricted free agents are ineligible for the expansion draft.
-Each team can protect up to eight players. If a team has less than eight players on their roster to protect, they still must leave a minimum of one player unprotected.
-The Bobcats must select a minimum of 14 players and can select a maximum of 29 players overall.
-The Bobcats can only select one player per team.
-The Bobcats are not bound to the salary cap during the draft. They can take on as many contracts as they like. However, once the draft is over, any players that they've drafted and keep count toward their cap (it should come in at around $29 million).
-As long as the Bobcats waive a player drafted in the expansion draft before the first day of the regular season, the player's remaining contract does not count against the Bobcats' salary cap.
-Restricted free agents drafted in the expansion draft automatically become unrestricted free agents.
-Teams are allowed to entice the Bobcats to select players by offering cash, draft picks or agreeing to additional trades in return.
-If a team has a player selected by the Bobcats, the team receives a trade exception equal to the player's 2004-05 salary. This allows teams to replace a player lost in the expansion draft with another player of comparable salary.
Mock Draft: Clippers could pass on Howard
By Chad Ford
With Chicago pre-draft camp is behind us, we can start weeding the field in advance of Thursday's deadline for underclassmen to withdraw from the NBA draft. From what we hear, Martynas Andriuskevicius, Kosta Perovic, Tiago Splitter, Johan Petro, Roko Leni Ukic, Ryan Gomes and Lawrence Roberts, among others, are planning to opt out. So for purposes of this mock, we're leaving them off the list.
The biggest mover this time around is prep point guard Shaun Livingston, whom we have being selected No. 2. If the Clippers don't trade the pick, chances are they'll take someone they can use more than Dwight Howard. If they trade, all bets are off. We should point out, though, that as many teams are trying to trade up for Livingston as they are for Howard.
The other big change is Oregon's Luke Jackson, who cracks the lottery in our projection for the first time after a series of stellar workouts.
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1. ORLANDO MAGIC
Emeka Okafor
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 257 | AGE: 21
He measured a legit 6-foot-10 with shoes (and had an amazing 7-foot-4 wingspan) in Chicago, quieting critics who claimed he's too small to play center in the league. Now we just need to find out about his back. He claims it hasn't bothered him since before the Final Four. Either the Magic will draft him, or the Bobcats or Bulls will trade up to No. 1 to get him.
Insider scouting report on Emeka Okafor
2. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Shaun Livingston
PEORIA H.S. (ILL.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7½ | WEIGHT: 186 | AGE: 18
The Clippers are trying to trade down, but if they elect not to, it will be because they've joined the growing throng in the NBA that believes Livingston -- not Howard -- is the best high school player in this draft. He's young, but he fills a need, and in the next two years he easily could become the Clips' best player.
Insider scouting report on Shaun Livingston
3. CHICAGO BULLS
Andre Iguodala
ARIZONA | SOPHOMORE | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 217 | AGE: 19
The Bulls like Iguodala, Luol Deng and Josh Childress. However, of those three, Iguodala has the most upside. He's the most athletic, the best defender, a superior passer and may be the most ready to step in and contribute right away.
Insider scouting report on Andre Iguodala
4. CHARLOTTE BOBCATS
Dwight Howard
SW ATLANTA CHRISTIAN H.S. | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10¼ | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 18
If Howard goes No. 2, the word out of Charlotte is Josh Childress will go here. However, it's becoming more conceivable that Howard could slip to this spot. If he does, Bernie Bickerstaff, who claims he doesn't really want a high school guy, will have no choice but to select Howard.
Insider scouting report on Dwight Howard
5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Luol Deng
DUKE | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 19
The Wizards already have more small forwards than any team in the league, but Deng is way ahead of both Jared Jeffries and Jarvis Hayes. They'll also give Childress and Andris Biedrins a long look here.
Insider scouting report on Luol Deng
6. ATLANTA HAWKS
Josh Smith
OAK HILL ACADEMY | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8¼ | WEIGHT: 221 | AGE: 18
The Hawks are working on a trade for this pick with the Clippers. If Atlanta keeps the pick, Smith makes a lot of sense. He's gotten some bad press over the past week, but his big-time athleticism and game will sell some tickets in Atlanta. If the trade happens, and if the Clips get Jason Terry as part of it, they'll likely draft Pavel Podkolzine at this spot. If they pick up Atlanta's extra pick instead, Livingston will be the guy. They need a point guard in the worst way.
Insider scouting report on Josh Smith
7. PHOENIX SUNS
Devin Harris
WISCONSIN | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-3 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 20
If Marytnas Andriuskevicius keeps him name in the draft, pencil him in here. If not, the Suns likely will select Harris. Leandrinho Barbosa is more of a combo guard, and it looks like Milos Vujanic might not be coming next season, after all. Besides, Harris is better than both and should be able to step right in and help Phoenix. Is he the next Kevin Johnson?
Insider scouting report on Devin Harris
8. TORONTO RAPTORS
Ben Gordon
CONNECTICUT | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-2¼ | WEIGHT: 192 | AGE: 21
The Raptors need a big in the worst way and both Podkolzine and Biedrins are real options here. But I'm not sure new GM Rob Babcock has the stomach to take on a project right now. Gordon's workouts have been lights out. A combo of Gordon and Carter in the backcourt makes a lot of sense.
Insider scouting report on Ben Gordon
9. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Josh Childress
STANFORD | JUNIOR | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7¼ | WEIGHT: 196 | AGE: 20
The Bulls, Bobcats and Wizards all love Childress so he could end up going much higher. However, if he does slip, he won't get past Philly. Childress' length, athleticism and great defensive effort are a great fit in Philly.
Insider scouting report on Josh Childress
10. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Luke Jackson
OREGON | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 212 | AGE: 22
The Cavs are trying to trade this pick for a veteran small forward who can shoot. The word around the league is they've targeted the Wolves' Wally Szczerbiak. If they can't cut a deal before the draft, look for them to take Jackson. He's been wowing teams in workouts and makes a lot of sense alongside LeBron.
Insider scouting report on Luke Jackson
11. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Pavel Podkolzine
RUSSIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-5 | WEIGHT: 300 | AGE: 19
The reward really starts outweighing the risk if Podkolzine slips this low. There isn't a player on the board worth passing him up for now. The Warriors look like they're losing both Erick Dampier and Adonal Foyle, meaning they'll have a gaping hole to fill in the middle. No one fills it bet than Pavel.
Insider scouting report on Pavel Podkolzine
12. SEATTLE SUPERSONICS
Andris Biedrins
LATVIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 18
Biedrins may be slipping just a little bit. He could go as high as Washington at No. 5 or to the Raptors at No. 8, but it's tough to believe he would slip past Seattle here. Biedrins is tall, athletic, plays tough defense and is more ready to play than most Euros. He's already better than any of the three centers in Seattle.
Insider scouting report on Andris Biedrins
13. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Kirk Snyder
NEVADA | JUNIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 228 | AGE: 21
Snyder's agent recently canceled his workouts with the Jazz, Celtics and Nuggets. The teams claim Snyder got a promise. His agent cites "scheduling difficulties." Whether there's a promise or not, Snyder's a great fit in Portland. He's a jack of all trades, and the Blazers' backcourt needs someone like that.
Insider scouting report on Kirk Snyder
14. UTAH JAZZ
Sergei Monya
RUSSIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 220 | AGE: 20
The Jazz claim they have not made a promise to Monya. Fine. But they still have interest, and the Russian-Marc Fleisher connection is too good to pass up. Besides, Monya is the most NBA-ready Euro in the draft. They'll love him in Utah.
Insider scouting report on Sergei Monya
15. BOSTON CELTICS
Rafael Araujo
BYU | SENIOR | CENTER
HEIGHT: 6-11 | WEIGHT: 280 | AGE: 23
The Celtics want Monya, but it's unlikely he'll get past Utah at No. 14. That means the decision comes down to Araujo, Robert Swift or Peter John Ramos. The Celtics like all three, but after spending an hour talking with Danny Ainge last week, my gut says they'll go with Araujo.
Insider scouting report on Rafael Araujo
16. UTAH JAZZ
Peja Samardziski
MACEDONIA | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-0 | WEIGHT: 240 | AGE: 17
Ainge gets his revenge for the Jazz taking Monya at 14 by selecting Araujo, the other player Utah has high on its board. The Jazz need some bigs in the worst way, and the best three left are Samardziski, Robert Swift and Peter John Ramos. None are ready to play in the NBA next season. Of the three, Samardziski is the best fit -- a smart basketball player with a great outside touch and a clever game.
Insider scouting report on Peja Samardziski
17. ATLANTA HAWKS
Al Jefferson
PRENTISS H.S. (MISS.) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9¾ | WEIGHT: 263 | AGE: 18
He measured well in Chicago and has been moving up with some strong workouts over the past few weeks. Jefferson isn't the best athlete in the draft at his size, but he's quick off the floor, has good strength and is as consistent as a high school kid can get. He could do some damage in the paint for the Hawks next season.
Insider scouting report on Al Jefferson
18. NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
J.R. Smith
ST. BENEDICT PREP (N.J.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-6¾ | WEIGHT: 227 | AGE: 18
Allan Bristow claims there's only a 30 percent chance his team would take a high school kid, but I can't see Smith slipping past here. He fills a big need, is an unbelievable athlete, can shoot it and should be a staple in the backcourt with Baron Davis for years.
Insider scouting report on J.R. Smith
19. MIAMI HEAT
Robert Swift
BAKERSFIELD H.S. (CALIF.) | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-1 | WEIGHT: 260 | AGE: 18
This comes down to a tough decision between Swift and Jameer Nelson. While the Heat are confident they'll get their hands on Mark Blount in free agency, he'll need help. Miami is one of several teams that are very high on Swift, and at No. 19 he's a steal. Nelson also would be a nice fit here, but he's more of a back-up point guard in the league, and the Heat have plenty of those.
Insider scouting report on Robert Swift
20. DENVER NUGGETS
Peter John Ramos
PUERTO RICO | CENTER
HEIGHT: 7-3¼ | WEIGHT: 266 | AGE: 19
There are a number of guys the Nuggets will look at here, but it likely will come down to Ramos or Frenchman Johan Petro. The problem is that Petro is looking for a promise before he commits to staying in the draft. The Nuggets aren't ready to give one, given the draft's volatility. If Petro pulls out, Ramos slips in. He's been dominant in Puerto Rico this spring, and the Nuggets know they need a big guy to replace Marcus Camby when he catches a hangnail (what's the over-under on how many games Camby misses once he signs his new long-term contract?).
Insider scouting report on Peter John Ramos
21. UTAH JAZZ
Kris Humphries
MINNESOTA | FRESHMAN | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9½ | WEIGHT: 238 | AGE: 20
The Jazz took two international players with their first two picks, so look for them to grab at least one American player. Humphries put up huge numbers at Minnesota last season. He can play both the four and the three, giving the Jazz some flexibility down the road.
Insider scouting report on Kris Humphries
22. NEW JERSEY NETS
Jameer Nelson
SAINT JOSEPH'S | SENIOR | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-0½ | WEIGHT: 199 | AGE: 23
The Nets breathe a big sigh of relief. With Jason Kidd likely to miss the start of the season with knee problems, the Nets need someone who can play now. Nelson will be great in spot-starting duty and a wonderful sub for Kidd down the road.
Insider scouting report on Jameer Nelson
23. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Sebastian Telfair
LINCOLN H.S. (BROOKLYN, N.Y.) | GUARD
HEIGHT: 5-11 | WEIGHT: 170 | AGE: 18
It may be hard to believe that a prospect with such a big shoe contract can slip this far. Telfair very well could go a lot higher, or slip out of the first round completely. There are a lot of different opinions about him. I think this may be the best fit for Telfair, for two reasons. One, the Blazers need help at the point. Damon Stoudamire is in the last year of his contract, and Portland needs to replace him. It gives them a year to ease in Telfair. Two, the Blazers need a boost at the box office, and Telfair, for all of his faults, will provide that.
Insider scouting report on Sebastian Telfair
24. BOSTON CELTICS
Dorell Wright
SOUTH KENT PREP (CT) | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-8 | WEIGHT: 215 | AGE: 18
Ainge claims they're looking for a tall wing player, and Wright looks like a good fit. Everyone who sees him play believes Wright has the potential to be a star in the league. It's just going to take a little while for his body to develop.
Insider scouting report on Dorell Wright
25. BOSTON CELTICS
Viktor Khryapa
RUSSIA | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-9 | WEIGHT: 235 | AGE: 22
The Celtics wanted Monya but end up with his teammate, Khryapa. At 6-9, he has the ability to play small forward. He's a good shooter, a better than average athlete and uses his long arms to harass opponents on the defensive end. He's another guy who really has helped himself in workouts. Ainge, not wanting three rookies on the roster, likely would leave him in Europe another year or two.
Insider scouting report on Viktor Khryapa
26. SACRAMENTO KINGS
Donta Smith
SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS CC | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 20
The Kings are as high on him as anyone. Smith is a big-time athlete with a great NBA body. He was a potent JC scorer and a decent defender. He's a project, but with the team likely losing Gerald Wallace, he's a good replacement.
Insider scouting report on Donta Smith
27. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Sasha Vujacic
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-7 | WEIGHT: 210 | AGE: 19
Vujacic impressed scouts with his phenomenal shooting touch and extra 15 pounds of muscle in workouts in Chicago. He's not a pure point guard and not the quickest guy in the world, but the way the Lakers play (as long as they keep Shaquille O'Neal, that is) he'll be a great fit planting himself on the NBA 3-point line and waiting for Shaq to kick it out.
Insider scouting report on Sasha Vujacic
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Anderson Varejao
BRAZIL | FORWARD
HEIGHT: 6-10 | WEIGHT: 230 | AGE: 22
The Spurs have loved him for two years, and he's a nice fit in the organization. He's long, athletic, experienced and plays with a ton of energy. He's a guy who can step right in and be a valuable role player coming off the bench.
Insider scouting report on Anderson Varejao
29. INDIANA PACERS
Beno Udrih
SLOVENIA | GUARD
HEIGHT: 6-4 | WEIGHT: 185 | AGE: 22
History says at least one player from the Chicago pre-draft camp makes it into the first round. This year, that guy may be Udrih. He was the best player in the camp last week. At 22, he has more experience than most of the Euros, and he has great size for a point. The Pacers have been following his career closely for several years. With his shooting and experience, he'd be a nice fit in the Pacers' backcourt.