In less than 24 hours, the 2014-15 NBA season will get underway with three games including the Mavericks at Spurs.
Beginning with Gregg Popovitch's first full season as Spurs coach, the Spurs have won 50-plus games every season except 1998-99. Only 50 total games were played that season and the Spurs won 37 of them. In fact, that was the first year that the Spurs won the NBA Finals.
Entering the season as defending champions, the Spurs have won five titles during the Popovitch and Tim Duncan era. Duncan exercised his player option for this season, which could be the last of his Hall-of-Fame career.
With a career win share of 191.57, the only players in NBA history with a higher win share are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (273.41), Wilt Chamberlain (247.26), Karl Malone (234.63), Michael Jordan (214.02) and John Stockton (207.70). Mr. Fundamental ranks 19th all-time in scoring, 12th in rebounding and 15th in blocks.
Based on Vegas odds to win it all, the Spurs are a close second (+350) behind the Cavaliers (+280).
As LeBron James returns home to Cleveland, he leads a more talented trio with Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love than the one he had in Miami with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
Considering the Heat made a trip to the NBA Finals in all four of LeBron's seasons in Miami and won two titles, it makes sense to install them as the preseason favorites even if it takes a bit of time for them to build chemistry.
Here are my Week 1 NBA Power Rankings (2013-14 record in parenthesis):
1. Cleveland Cavaliers (33-49)
2. San Antonio Spurs (62-20)
3. Chicago Bulls (48-34)
4. Los Angeles Clippers (57-25)
5. Oklahoma City Thunder (59-23)
6. Dallas Mavericks (49-33)
7. Golden State Warriors (51-31)
8. Memphis Grizzlies (50-32)
9. Portland Trail Blazers (54-28)
10. Washington Wizards (44-38)
11. Toronto Raptors (48-34)
12. Houston Rockets (48-34)
13. New Orleans Pelicans (34-48)
14. Phoenix Suns (48-34)
15. Charlotte Hornets (43-39)
16. Miami Heat (54-28)
17. Denver Nuggets (36-46)
18. Brooklyn Nets (44-38)
19. Atlanta Hawks (38-44)
20. Detroit Pistons (29-53)
21. Indiana Pacers (56-26)
22. Los Angeles Lakers (27-55)
23. Sacramento Kings (28-54)
24. New York Knicks (37-45)
25. Minnesota Timberwolves (40-42)
26. Utah Jazz (25-57)
27. Boston Celtics (25-57)
28. Milwaukee Bucks (15-67)
29. Orlando Magic (23-59)
30. Philadelphia 76ers (19-63)
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Monday, October 27, 2014
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Report: Kevin Durant (foot) needs surgery and will miss next 6-8 weeks
Thunder forward Kevin Durant has missed only six games over the previous five NBA seasons, but he's going to miss more than that to begin the season.
Per Frank Isola of the NY Daily News, Durant needs surgery and will miss the next 6-8 weeks due to a Jones fracture in his foot.
Six weeks from today is Nov. 23rd and eight weeks from today is Dec. 7th. The Thunder have games on both of those days and they represent their 15th and 20th games of the season, respectively.
That said, general manager Sam Presti said that "all signs point" to Durant requiring surgery, but that decision won't be made until further consultation.
Obviously, this impacts Durant's fantasy value and I dropped him from No. 1 to No. 20 in my 2014-15 fantasy basketball rankings while moving teammate Russell Westbrook up a couple of spots to No. 6.
Friday, July 11, 2014
It's official - LeBron James is "coming home" to Cleveland
There was plenty of speculation, but now it's official: LeBron James is a Cleveland Cavalier.
Again.
Here is the essay from LeBron (via SI's Lee Jenkins) announcing his decision:
The best player in the NBA, LeBron joins one of the best young point guards in the league, Kyrie Irving. While Andrew Wiggins, the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, could develop into one of the best players in the league, it's possible that he gets sent along with others and/or picks to Minnesota for Kevin Love, who has said that he would re-up with the Cavs. Love's existing contract expires after the 2014-15 season.
Based on odds from Sportsbook.com, Vegas has installed the Cavs (4/1) as the favorites to win the NBA Championship ahead of the Spurs and Thunder (both 6/1). Miami now has 75/1 odds. I'm guessing Riley is "pissed."
With the biggest free-agency domino falling, LeBron's official decision to return to Cleveland should now open the floodgates of free-agency deals getting done around the Association.
Again.
Here is the essay from LeBron (via SI's Lee Jenkins) announcing his decision:
Before anyone ever cared where I would play basketball, I was a kid from Northeast Ohio. It’s where I walked. It’s where I ran. It’s where I cried. It’s where I bled. It holds a special place in my heart. People there have seen me grow up. I sometimes feel like I’m their son. Their passion can be overwhelming. But it drives me. I want to give them hope when I can. I want to inspire them when I can. My relationship with Northeast Ohio is bigger than basketball. I didn’t realize that four years ago. I do now.As James leaves Miami, that will lead Chris Bosh to return home, sort of, to the Houston Rockets to form a new Big Three with Dwight Howard and James Harden. (He is from Texas, however, he's from Dallas.)
Remember when I was sitting up there at the Boys & Girls Club in 2010? I was thinking, This is really tough. I could feel it. I was leaving something I had spent a long time creating. If I had to do it all over again, I’d obviously do things differently, but I’d still have left. Miami, for me, has been almost like college for other kids. These past four years helped raise me into who I am. I became a better player and a better man. I learned from a franchise that had been where I wanted to go. I will always think of Miami as my second home. Without the experiences I had there, I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing today.
I went to Miami because of D-Wade and CB. We made sacrifices to keep UD. I loved becoming a big bro to Rio. I believed we could do something magical if we came together. And that’s exactly what we did! The hardest thing to leave is what I built with those guys. I’ve talked to some of them and will talk to others. Nothing will ever change what we accomplished. We are brothers for life. I also want to thank Micky Arison and Pat Riley for giving me an amazing four years.
I’m doing this essay because I want an opportunity to explain myself uninterrupted. I don’t want anyone thinking: He and Erik Spoelstra didn’t get along. … He and Riles didn’t get along. … The Heat couldn’t put the right team together. That’s absolutely not true.
I’m not having a press conference or a party. After this, it’s time to get to work.
When I left Cleveland, I was on a mission. I was seeking championships, and we won two. But Miami already knew that feeling. Our city hasn’t had that feeling in a long, long, long time. My goal is still to win as many titles as possible, no question. But what’s most important for me is bringing one trophy back to Northeast Ohio.
I always believed that I’d return to Cleveland and finish my career there. I just didn’t know when. After the season, free agency wasn’t even a thought. But I have two boys and my wife, Savannah, is pregnant with a girl. I started thinking about what it would be like to raise my family in my hometown. I looked at other teams, but I wasn’t going to leave Miami for anywhere except Cleveland. The more time passed, the more it felt right. This is what makes me happy.
To make the move I needed the support of my wife and my mom, who can be very tough. The letter from Dan Gilbert, the booing of the Cleveland fans, the jerseys being burned -- seeing all that was hard for them. My emotions were more mixed. It was easy to say, “OK, I don’t want to deal with these people ever again.” But then you think about the other side. What if I were a kid who looked up to an athlete, and that athlete made me want to do better in my own life, and then he left? How would I react? I’ve met with Dan, face-to-face, man-to-man. We’ve talked it out. Everybody makes mistakes. I’ve made mistakes as well. Who am I to hold a grudge?
I’m not promising a championship. I know how hard that is to deliver. We’re not ready right now. No way. Of course, I want to win next year, but I’m realistic. It will be a long process, much longer than it was in 2010. My patience will get tested. I know that. I’m going into a situation with a young team and a new coach. I will be the old head. But I get a thrill out of bringing a group together and helping them reach a place they didn’t know they could go. I see myself as a mentor now and I’m excited to lead some of these talented young guys. I think I can help Kyrie Irving become one of the best point guards in our league. I think I can help elevate Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters. And I can’t wait to reunite with Anderson Varejao, one of my favorite teammates.
But this is not about the roster or the organization. I feel my calling here goes above basketball. I have a responsibility to lead, in more ways than one, and I take that very seriously. My presence can make a difference in Miami, but I think it can mean more where I’m from. I want kids in Northeast Ohio, like the hundreds of Akron third-graders I sponsor through my foundation, to realize that there’s no better place to grow up. Maybe some of them will come home after college and start a family or open a business. That would make me smile. Our community, which has struggled so much, needs all the talent it can get.
In Northeast Ohio, nothing is given. Everything is earned. You work for what you have.
I’m ready to accept the challenge. I’m coming home.
The best player in the NBA, LeBron joins one of the best young point guards in the league, Kyrie Irving. While Andrew Wiggins, the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, could develop into one of the best players in the league, it's possible that he gets sent along with others and/or picks to Minnesota for Kevin Love, who has said that he would re-up with the Cavs. Love's existing contract expires after the 2014-15 season.
Based on odds from Sportsbook.com, Vegas has installed the Cavs (4/1) as the favorites to win the NBA Championship ahead of the Spurs and Thunder (both 6/1). Miami now has 75/1 odds. I'm guessing Riley is "pissed."
With the biggest free-agency domino falling, LeBron's official decision to return to Cleveland should now open the floodgates of free-agency deals getting done around the Association.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Report: Dwyane Wade has opted out of his contract
Miami Heat small forward LeBron James opted out of his contract earlier in the week.
In order for him to return to the Heat, one of the key factors would be whether or not Dwyane Wade and/or Chris Bosh would opt out of their contracts to ultimately give the Heat more financial flexibility.
And D-Wade has opted out.
Playing in only 54 regular-season games, Wade averaged 19.0 points — his lowest average since his rookie season — as well as 4.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game. In the NBA Finals, however, Wade shot only 43.8 percent from the field and 69.2 percent from the line while averaging 15.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game.
The Heat were already the odds-on favorite to re-sign James and this move only makes it more likely that James will return.
[Update: Bosh has also opted out, per ESPN's Chris Boussard. Or he hasn't as NBA.com's David Aldridge says "Bosh has not yet decided whether to opt out."]
In order for him to return to the Heat, one of the key factors would be whether or not Dwyane Wade and/or Chris Bosh would opt out of their contracts to ultimately give the Heat more financial flexibility.
And D-Wade has opted out.
Dwyane Wade has opted out of last 2 years and $42 M of contract as expected, per AP. Working with Heat to give them spending money.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) June 28, 2014
Playing in only 54 regular-season games, Wade averaged 19.0 points — his lowest average since his rookie season — as well as 4.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game. In the NBA Finals, however, Wade shot only 43.8 percent from the field and 69.2 percent from the line while averaging 15.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game.
The Heat were already the odds-on favorite to re-sign James and this move only makes it more likely that James will return.
[Update: Bosh has also opted out, per ESPN's Chris Boussard. Or he hasn't as NBA.com's David Aldridge says "Bosh has not yet decided whether to opt out."]
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Report: LeBron James to exercise early termination option
Get ready for The Decision II — not another TV "special" but another free agency period for LeBron James.
With LeBron about to become a free agent on July 1st, it does not mean that he won't return to the Heat along with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for a chance to get back to the NBA Finals for a fifth consecutive season. So, Pat Riley is probably somewhere saying "get a grip" and then nervously laughing.
That said, it does open up his options and obviously every team in the association will be lining up in pursuit of the game's best player.
James averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game last season. Based on data from Basketball Reference, only three players have seasons with 27/6/6/1: James (eight of them), Michael Jordan (three) and Larry Bird (three).
While Kevin Durant won the league MVP this season (and rightfully so), James is one of only five NBA players to have won the award four times. The others are Jordan, Moses Malone, Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Will James keep his talents in South Beach? Go back home to Cleveland? Or end up somewhere else?
LeBron James' agent Rich Paul has told Heat LeBron will exercise early termination option
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) June 24, 2014With LeBron about to become a free agent on July 1st, it does not mean that he won't return to the Heat along with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for a chance to get back to the NBA Finals for a fifth consecutive season. So, Pat Riley is probably somewhere saying "get a grip" and then nervously laughing.
That said, it does open up his options and obviously every team in the association will be lining up in pursuit of the game's best player.
James averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game last season. Based on data from Basketball Reference, only three players have seasons with 27/6/6/1: James (eight of them), Michael Jordan (three) and Larry Bird (three).
While Kevin Durant won the league MVP this season (and rightfully so), James is one of only five NBA players to have won the award four times. The others are Jordan, Moses Malone, Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Will James keep his talents in South Beach? Go back home to Cleveland? Or end up somewhere else?
Updated 2014 NBA Mock Draft (Baillargeon)
With the 2014 NBA Draft only a couple of days away, our contributors will be updating their 2014 NBA mock drafts and here's Kyle Baillargeon's latest version:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Owner Dan Gilbert was adamant last year that the Cavaliers wouldn't enter the lottery again, and would make the playoffs. But here they are, once more, thanks to an incompetent front office with no ability to evaluate talent. Virtually everyone agrees that Parker is the most NBA-ready talent in the draft, and the Cavs will be too afraid to be patient with the high-upside Wiggins and Embiid.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Embiid would make some sense, but his injuries will prove very scary, and the Bucks have the virtually untradeable Larry Sanders at center. Wiggins may technically be the same position as the "Greek Freak" Giannis Antetokounmpo, but specific positions aren't as important in today's NBA. Wiggins has tremendous upside, and will be the centerpiece of the "Fear the Deer" renaissance.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Sixers seem to be desperate for Wiggins, but since he's gone, Exum is the pick here. The most likely scenario would then be for the Sixers to try and move Michael Carter-Williams for another pick. It's kind of nuts to think that the team would consider trading the rookie of the year, but reports indicate they would have had Exum rated higher than MCW if they were in the same draft.
4. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
I don't expect to see Embiid drop too far because of his injuries. History has not been kind to big men with navicular bone fractures, but the talent is too tantalizing to pass up for some. The constant advancement in modern medicine and injury treatment also plays in Embiid's favor. With a second lottery pick, the Magic can afford to swing for the fences here.
5. Utah Jazz - Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State
This would be an upset on draft day, but Harris is a great scorer and defender. He would contribute in a meaningful way from day one, and the Jazz don't really need another power forward, which is the top position at this stage of the draft. Any team that wants to jump up and grab a power forward that they really like would be smart to get on the phone with Utah and try to make a deal. The Jazz would definitely listen.
6. Boston Celtics - Aaron Gordon, SF, Arizona
Boston fans hope this pick (along with others) goes to Minnesota for Kevin Love, but if the Celtics make the pick for themselves, it now looks like Aaron Gordon is a near-lock. Danny Ainge has reportedly had his eye on Gordon for a long time. Plenty of players have been brought in for workouts of late, including my initial pick here, Noah Vonleh. But all signs point to Gordon.
7. Los Angeles Lakers - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
The Lakers may think that the smart move would be to move this pick for veteran help, but that would be a bad idea. Kobe Bryant won't be playing forever, and the future needs to be taken into consideration. Randle reminds some of Zach Randolph, and while he can be great in the future, he would still be able to help now.
8. Sacramento Kings - Marcus Smart, PG, Oklahoma State
Smart is an immediate upgrade over Isaiah Thomas, and would be a leader from day one. Smart would have been one of the top three picks of the draft last year, so getting him here would be a steal for Sacramento.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Nik Stauskas, SG, Michigan
The Hornets are another team that could use an upgrade in the shooting department, and Stauskas is widely considered the best shooter in the draft. Charlotte finally has a good thing going, and this pick is more of a luxury than anything. Stauskas would add to this up-and-coming team, whom we might not see in this high of a draft position again for a while.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana
The jury is still out on if Vonleh will be very good in the NBA. Casual observers saw Vonleh at Indiana this past year and don't understand why he would be picked so high. But supporters agree Vonleh was never featured in Indiana's offense and still managed to average nearly a double-double last year. At 18 years of age, Vonleh already has an NBA body and could still grow. He could be Derrick Favors, or he could be LaMarcus Aldridge. Either way, the Sixers would probably be thrilled to walk out of the draft with Exum and Vonleh on their squad.
[Editor's note: As a Sixers fan, I'd be "thrilled" indeed.]
11. Denver Nuggets - Jusuf Nurkic, C, Bosnia
Nurkic is a big, physical player who can take over in the middle for Denver. The Nuggets could also use some help at the shooting guard position, but it's debatable on whether anyone remaining at that position has as much upside as Nurkic.
12. Orlando Magic - Elfrid Payton, PG, Louisiana-Lafayette
Payton has been impressing everyone in the lead up to the draft, and the Magic could use his leadership and skills. Payton would be one half of a potentially dynamic backcourt with Victor Oladipo, and the possibility of trading Arron Afflalo for yet another pick is strong. Last time, we had Payton at 20, and now it looks like even 12 seems a little low. But if he's still here, he's the pick.
13. Minnesota Timberwolves - Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton
If the Wolves do in fact trade Kevin Love, then they will likely have already picked somewhere in this draft and taken a power forward. In either case, though, McDermott brings great shooting to a team that could use it. McDermott would probably start for Minnesota, and could be a good scorer from the start.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky
Gerald Green had a decent enough season last year but he's not part of the Suns' future. James Young could use a little more seasoning, but with time he should take over the small forward position in Phoenix. Still only 18 years old, there is a lot of upside with Young.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Zach LaVine, G, UCLA
LaVine may not have been the best player in the Pac 12 last year, but he may very well have been the best prospect. He's still getting bigger and has even drawn comparisons to Russell Westbrook for his style of play and athleticism. He won't be a star out of the gate, but in a few years, we may look back on this as one of the steals of the draft.
-> Continue to picks 16-30
More Mocks:
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Kevin Hanson
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Brendan Donahue
-> our NBA Mock Draft Database
To keep track of our basketball updates, (1) Follow us on Twitter, (2) Like us on Facebook and/or (3) Add us to your Google+ circle.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Owner Dan Gilbert was adamant last year that the Cavaliers wouldn't enter the lottery again, and would make the playoffs. But here they are, once more, thanks to an incompetent front office with no ability to evaluate talent. Virtually everyone agrees that Parker is the most NBA-ready talent in the draft, and the Cavs will be too afraid to be patient with the high-upside Wiggins and Embiid.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Embiid would make some sense, but his injuries will prove very scary, and the Bucks have the virtually untradeable Larry Sanders at center. Wiggins may technically be the same position as the "Greek Freak" Giannis Antetokounmpo, but specific positions aren't as important in today's NBA. Wiggins has tremendous upside, and will be the centerpiece of the "Fear the Deer" renaissance.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Sixers seem to be desperate for Wiggins, but since he's gone, Exum is the pick here. The most likely scenario would then be for the Sixers to try and move Michael Carter-Williams for another pick. It's kind of nuts to think that the team would consider trading the rookie of the year, but reports indicate they would have had Exum rated higher than MCW if they were in the same draft.
4. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
I don't expect to see Embiid drop too far because of his injuries. History has not been kind to big men with navicular bone fractures, but the talent is too tantalizing to pass up for some. The constant advancement in modern medicine and injury treatment also plays in Embiid's favor. With a second lottery pick, the Magic can afford to swing for the fences here.
5. Utah Jazz - Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State
This would be an upset on draft day, but Harris is a great scorer and defender. He would contribute in a meaningful way from day one, and the Jazz don't really need another power forward, which is the top position at this stage of the draft. Any team that wants to jump up and grab a power forward that they really like would be smart to get on the phone with Utah and try to make a deal. The Jazz would definitely listen.
6. Boston Celtics - Aaron Gordon, SF, Arizona
Boston fans hope this pick (along with others) goes to Minnesota for Kevin Love, but if the Celtics make the pick for themselves, it now looks like Aaron Gordon is a near-lock. Danny Ainge has reportedly had his eye on Gordon for a long time. Plenty of players have been brought in for workouts of late, including my initial pick here, Noah Vonleh. But all signs point to Gordon.
7. Los Angeles Lakers - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
The Lakers may think that the smart move would be to move this pick for veteran help, but that would be a bad idea. Kobe Bryant won't be playing forever, and the future needs to be taken into consideration. Randle reminds some of Zach Randolph, and while he can be great in the future, he would still be able to help now.
8. Sacramento Kings - Marcus Smart, PG, Oklahoma State
Smart is an immediate upgrade over Isaiah Thomas, and would be a leader from day one. Smart would have been one of the top three picks of the draft last year, so getting him here would be a steal for Sacramento.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Nik Stauskas, SG, Michigan
The Hornets are another team that could use an upgrade in the shooting department, and Stauskas is widely considered the best shooter in the draft. Charlotte finally has a good thing going, and this pick is more of a luxury than anything. Stauskas would add to this up-and-coming team, whom we might not see in this high of a draft position again for a while.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana
The jury is still out on if Vonleh will be very good in the NBA. Casual observers saw Vonleh at Indiana this past year and don't understand why he would be picked so high. But supporters agree Vonleh was never featured in Indiana's offense and still managed to average nearly a double-double last year. At 18 years of age, Vonleh already has an NBA body and could still grow. He could be Derrick Favors, or he could be LaMarcus Aldridge. Either way, the Sixers would probably be thrilled to walk out of the draft with Exum and Vonleh on their squad.
[Editor's note: As a Sixers fan, I'd be "thrilled" indeed.]
11. Denver Nuggets - Jusuf Nurkic, C, Bosnia
Nurkic is a big, physical player who can take over in the middle for Denver. The Nuggets could also use some help at the shooting guard position, but it's debatable on whether anyone remaining at that position has as much upside as Nurkic.
12. Orlando Magic - Elfrid Payton, PG, Louisiana-Lafayette
Payton has been impressing everyone in the lead up to the draft, and the Magic could use his leadership and skills. Payton would be one half of a potentially dynamic backcourt with Victor Oladipo, and the possibility of trading Arron Afflalo for yet another pick is strong. Last time, we had Payton at 20, and now it looks like even 12 seems a little low. But if he's still here, he's the pick.
13. Minnesota Timberwolves - Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton
If the Wolves do in fact trade Kevin Love, then they will likely have already picked somewhere in this draft and taken a power forward. In either case, though, McDermott brings great shooting to a team that could use it. McDermott would probably start for Minnesota, and could be a good scorer from the start.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky
Gerald Green had a decent enough season last year but he's not part of the Suns' future. James Young could use a little more seasoning, but with time he should take over the small forward position in Phoenix. Still only 18 years old, there is a lot of upside with Young.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Zach LaVine, G, UCLA
LaVine may not have been the best player in the Pac 12 last year, but he may very well have been the best prospect. He's still getting bigger and has even drawn comparisons to Russell Westbrook for his style of play and athleticism. He won't be a star out of the gate, but in a few years, we may look back on this as one of the steals of the draft.
-> Continue to picks 16-30
More Mocks:
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Kevin Hanson
-> 2014 NBA Mock Draft from Brendan Donahue
-> our NBA Mock Draft Database
To keep track of our basketball updates, (1) Follow us on Twitter, (2) Like us on Facebook and/or (3) Add us to your Google+ circle.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Spurs PF Tim Duncan exercises option for 2014-15 season
It's not a huge surprise, but it's now official.
The retirement party will be postponed by at least one year.
Per Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo!, Spurs power forward Tim Duncan has exercised his player option on the 2014-15 season and will return to the Spurs for a chance to defend their title.
One of the greatest players — and perhaps the most unassuming superstar — in NBA history, Duncan has 24,904 points (19th all-time), 13,940 rebounds (11th all-time) and 2,791 blocked shots (seventh all-time).
The other two members of the Big 3, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, are both entering the final years of their contracts as well.
At the moment, other key Spurs free agents include Patty Mills, Boris Diaw and Matt Bonner.
Last season, Duncan averaged 15.1 points and 9.7 rebounds during the regular season and 16.3 points and 9.2 boards in the postseason.
Based on early odds from Sportsbook.ag, only the Heat (9/2) have lower odds to win the NBA title next year than the Spurs (11/2).
(Of course, those odds could change dramatically if LeBron James opts out and enters free agency and his wife created a little bit of drama with this Instragram post.)
The retirement party will be postponed by at least one year.
Per Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo!, Spurs power forward Tim Duncan has exercised his player option on the 2014-15 season and will return to the Spurs for a chance to defend their title.
One of the greatest players — and perhaps the most unassuming superstar — in NBA history, Duncan has 24,904 points (19th all-time), 13,940 rebounds (11th all-time) and 2,791 blocked shots (seventh all-time).
The other two members of the Big 3, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, are both entering the final years of their contracts as well.
At the moment, other key Spurs free agents include Patty Mills, Boris Diaw and Matt Bonner.
Last season, Duncan averaged 15.1 points and 9.7 rebounds during the regular season and 16.3 points and 9.2 boards in the postseason.
Based on early odds from Sportsbook.ag, only the Heat (9/2) have lower odds to win the NBA title next year than the Spurs (11/2).
(Of course, those odds could change dramatically if LeBron James opts out and enters free agency and his wife created a little bit of drama with this Instragram post.)
Thursday, May 29, 2014
2014 NBA Mock Draft - May 29th Update
The 2013 NBA Draft class was one of the weakest draft classes in recent memory. After all, the No. 1 overall pick was none other than UNLV's Anthony Bennett.
What a difference a year makes as this year's draft class has the potential to be one of the best ever.
With the NBA Draft less than one month away, I will update my mock draft on a weekly basis until the actual draft on June 26th. In addition, other contributors will soon post their NBA mock drafts as well.
[Follow @HitTheBoards to keep track of our site's updates.]
Here is the latest version of my 2014 NBA Mock Draft:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers: Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Once again, the Cavs are in possession of the first overall pick — their third in the past four drafts! If the Cavs hang on to this pick, any one of three prospects could be in play here: Wiggins, his KU teammate Joel Embiid and Duke's Jabari Parker.
Of that group, Parker enters the league as the most NBA-ready prospect, but both Wiggins and Embiid have higher ceilings (and lower floors, to be fair). The son of ex-NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, Andrew has freakish athleticism and great length. While he is too passive at times, Wiggins can score from anywhere on the court and is a great defender.
2. Milwaukee Bucks: Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years. A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker.
3. Philadelphia 76ers: Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Although the Sixers miss out on Wiggins or Embiid, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class, as noted earlier.
While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season and could give the Sixers back-to-back ROYs.
4. Orlando Magic: Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Magic have a pair of lottery picks, this and the 12th overall pick, and they will likely add a point guard with one of those two picks to pair with Victor Oladipo. While he played some point guard, Oladipo is better suited to play off guard.
The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board.
5. Utah Jazz: Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana
Although he doesn't turn 19 until August, Vonleh averaged 11.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 0.9 steals per game for the Hoosiers as a freshman. Vonleh has excellent size, athleticism and can shoot the ball well.
6. Boston Celtics: Aaron Gordon, F, Arizona
What Gordon lacks in his offensive game, especially his outside shot, he more than makes up for that deficiency with his athleticism, elite defensive play and oustanding motor.
7. Los Angeles Lakers: Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
Based on their current contract situation, only Kobe Bryant and Robert Sacre are scheduled to be Lakers beyond the 2014-15 season. In other words, they essentially have a blank canvas. Always in a win-now mode, however, they could look to deal this pick. Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here.
8. Sacramento Kings: Marcus Smart, G, Oklahoma State
Smart had a not-so-smart moment against Texas Tech this season when he lost his cool and shoved an inappropriate fan. Other than that unfortunate incident, though, Smart has generally been viewed as a high-character guy.
His biggest on-court flaw is his inconsistent outside shooting, but Smart is a strong guard that can get to the basket and finish. Extremely competitive with a non-stop motor, Smart is an excellent defender and rebounder for a guard as well.
9. Charlotte Hornets: Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton
Charlotte ranked 23rd in the league in scoring offense (96.9 points per game) and in three-point shooting percentage (.351).
Playing four years for his father at Creighton, McBuckets is one of college basketball's most prolific scorers with 3,150 career points (fifth all-time). While he's far from an elite athlete, McDermott is an elite shooter and a fierce competitor with a high basketball IQ.
10. Philadelphia 76ers: Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State
While Harris is undersized for a two guard, he is both an excellent defender and good shooter even if his three-point shooting percentage declined to 35.2 percent in 2013-14. Adding Parker and Harris to Michael Carter-Williams, Thaddeus Young and Nerlens Noel gives the Sixers a nice young core.
11. Denver Nuggets: Dario Saric, F, Croatia
In a bit of a surprise, Saric withdrew from last year's lackluster draft class, but he led his league in both scoring and rebounding as the league MVP. A skilled point forward, Saric may stay in Europe for at least another season, though.
12. Orlando Magic: James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky
The Magic ranked in the bottom third in the league three-pointers per game (6.9) and while Young was inconsistent from deep in his only season at Kentucky, he has the potential to develop into one of the league's better shooters.
13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State
Kevin Love has just one more season in Minnesota. Unless he has none, that is. Love will become a free agent after the upcoming season and reports are that he won't re-sign with the T'Wolves so it's possible they move their best player in order to get something in return. The 6-foot-10 Payne shot 42.3 percent from behind the arc last season for the Spartans.
14. Phoenix Suns: Nik Stauskas, G, Michigan
One of the best shooters in this year's draft class, Stauskas has good size (6-foot-7) and knocked down 44.1 percent of his three-pointers in his two seasons in Ann Arbor. The Big Ten Player of the Year, Stauskas averaged 17.5 points per game last season.
15. Atlanta Hawks: Rodney Hood, SG/SF, Duke
Hood does one thing exceptionally well — shoot the basketball. He knocked down 42 percent of his three's for Duke last season.
--> Continue to picks 16-30
For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.
Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
What a difference a year makes as this year's draft class has the potential to be one of the best ever.
With the NBA Draft less than one month away, I will update my mock draft on a weekly basis until the actual draft on June 26th. In addition, other contributors will soon post their NBA mock drafts as well.
[Follow @HitTheBoards to keep track of our site's updates.]
Here is the latest version of my 2014 NBA Mock Draft:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers: Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Once again, the Cavs are in possession of the first overall pick — their third in the past four drafts! If the Cavs hang on to this pick, any one of three prospects could be in play here: Wiggins, his KU teammate Joel Embiid and Duke's Jabari Parker.
Of that group, Parker enters the league as the most NBA-ready prospect, but both Wiggins and Embiid have higher ceilings (and lower floors, to be fair). The son of ex-NBA player Mitchell Wiggins, Andrew has freakish athleticism and great length. While he is too passive at times, Wiggins can score from anywhere on the court and is a great defender.
2. Milwaukee Bucks: Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years. A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker.
3. Philadelphia 76ers: Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Although the Sixers miss out on Wiggins or Embiid, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class, as noted earlier.
While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season and could give the Sixers back-to-back ROYs.
4. Orlando Magic: Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Magic have a pair of lottery picks, this and the 12th overall pick, and they will likely add a point guard with one of those two picks to pair with Victor Oladipo. While he played some point guard, Oladipo is better suited to play off guard.
The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board.
5. Utah Jazz: Noah Vonleh, PF, Indiana
Although he doesn't turn 19 until August, Vonleh averaged 11.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 0.9 steals per game for the Hoosiers as a freshman. Vonleh has excellent size, athleticism and can shoot the ball well.
6. Boston Celtics: Aaron Gordon, F, Arizona
What Gordon lacks in his offensive game, especially his outside shot, he more than makes up for that deficiency with his athleticism, elite defensive play and oustanding motor.
7. Los Angeles Lakers: Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
Based on their current contract situation, only Kobe Bryant and Robert Sacre are scheduled to be Lakers beyond the 2014-15 season. In other words, they essentially have a blank canvas. Always in a win-now mode, however, they could look to deal this pick. Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here.
8. Sacramento Kings: Marcus Smart, G, Oklahoma State
Smart had a not-so-smart moment against Texas Tech this season when he lost his cool and shoved an inappropriate fan. Other than that unfortunate incident, though, Smart has generally been viewed as a high-character guy.
His biggest on-court flaw is his inconsistent outside shooting, but Smart is a strong guard that can get to the basket and finish. Extremely competitive with a non-stop motor, Smart is an excellent defender and rebounder for a guard as well.
9. Charlotte Hornets: Doug McDermott, SF, Creighton
Charlotte ranked 23rd in the league in scoring offense (96.9 points per game) and in three-point shooting percentage (.351).
Playing four years for his father at Creighton, McBuckets is one of college basketball's most prolific scorers with 3,150 career points (fifth all-time). While he's far from an elite athlete, McDermott is an elite shooter and a fierce competitor with a high basketball IQ.
10. Philadelphia 76ers: Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State
While Harris is undersized for a two guard, he is both an excellent defender and good shooter even if his three-point shooting percentage declined to 35.2 percent in 2013-14. Adding Parker and Harris to Michael Carter-Williams, Thaddeus Young and Nerlens Noel gives the Sixers a nice young core.
11. Denver Nuggets: Dario Saric, F, Croatia
In a bit of a surprise, Saric withdrew from last year's lackluster draft class, but he led his league in both scoring and rebounding as the league MVP. A skilled point forward, Saric may stay in Europe for at least another season, though.
12. Orlando Magic: James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky
The Magic ranked in the bottom third in the league three-pointers per game (6.9) and while Young was inconsistent from deep in his only season at Kentucky, he has the potential to develop into one of the league's better shooters.
13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State
Kevin Love has just one more season in Minnesota. Unless he has none, that is. Love will become a free agent after the upcoming season and reports are that he won't re-sign with the T'Wolves so it's possible they move their best player in order to get something in return. The 6-foot-10 Payne shot 42.3 percent from behind the arc last season for the Spartans.
14. Phoenix Suns: Nik Stauskas, G, Michigan
One of the best shooters in this year's draft class, Stauskas has good size (6-foot-7) and knocked down 44.1 percent of his three-pointers in his two seasons in Ann Arbor. The Big Ten Player of the Year, Stauskas averaged 17.5 points per game last season.
15. Atlanta Hawks: Rodney Hood, SG/SF, Duke
Hood does one thing exceptionally well — shoot the basketball. He knocked down 42 percent of his three's for Duke last season.
--> Continue to picks 16-30
For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.
Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
Monday, May 12, 2014
LeBron James scores 49 points in Heat win
We are now one game (per series) away from a potential Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers matchup in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Tying his career high in the postseason, LeBron James scored nearly half of the Heat's points in tonight's win in Brooklyn as the Heat took a 3-1 series lead.
James scored 49 points on 16-of-24 shooting including three-of-six from behind the arc and he added six boards, three steals and two assists.
In this series, James is shooting nearly 60 percent (59.7) from the field and is averaging 30.25 points per game. In addition, he's averaging 5.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game in the series.
The Heat will have an opportunity to close the series on Wednesday in Miami. (The Pacers host the Wizards in Game 5 of their series on Tuesday.)
Tying his career high in the postseason, LeBron James scored nearly half of the Heat's points in tonight's win in Brooklyn as the Heat took a 3-1 series lead.
James scored 49 points on 16-of-24 shooting including three-of-six from behind the arc and he added six boards, three steals and two assists.
In this series, James is shooting nearly 60 percent (59.7) from the field and is averaging 30.25 points per game. In addition, he's averaging 5.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game in the series.
The Heat will have an opportunity to close the series on Wednesday in Miami. (The Pacers host the Wizards in Game 5 of their series on Tuesday.)
Friday, May 2, 2014
2014 NBA Mock Draft, 2.0
Last year's NBA draft class was one of the most lackluster classes in recent memory. Based on the group of draft-eligible prospects this year, however, the 2014 draft class has the potential to develop into one of the greatest ever.
While some in the group may never live up to their potential at the next level, this year's class certainly does not lack hype.
From now until the 2014 NBA Draft on Thursday, June 26th, my mock will be updated frequently and we will have other mocks from our other contributors as well.
[Follow our basketball updates on Twitter via @HitTheBoards.]
The NBA Draft lottery will take place on May 20th and that could alter the draft order for the first 14 picks, but the order of the non-lottery picks has already been determined.
If you would like to view other opinions, check out our 2014 NBA mock draft database for more mocks.
Otherwise, here is my updated 2014 NBA Mock Draft:
1. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Entering college with lofty and perhaps unfair expectations, Wiggins received as much hype and buzz as any prep phenom since LeBron James. Before arriving in Lawrence, Wiggins was widely viewed as the consensus top prospect in the draft even if he did not occupy that spot throughout the entire college season.
While Duke's Jabari Parker may be more NBA-ready today, no prospect has as much upside as Wiggins. And while his Jayhawks teammate Joel Embiid was viewed as the top prospect in the draft for much of the college season, there are some concerns about the back injury that sidelined him down the stretch.
Exceptionally quick and explosive, Wiggins has great length (6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan) as a two guard with the versatility to play either forward spot as well. In addition, he's an excellent shooter with good range. If there's a knock on Wiggins, however, it's that he's not as aggressive on the offensive end as he should be at times.
2. Philadelphia 76ers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Although the Sixers miss out on the son of former Sixer Mitchell Wiggins, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class.
While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season.
3. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
The most important thing with Embiid will be the medical report(s) about his back. Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years.
A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker. With Nikola Vucevic already on the roster, Australia's Dante Exum may better fit the team's needs, but I can't see Embiid slipping past this spot (depending on his back, of course).
With a second lottery pick, the Magic can add a point guard like Syracuse's Tyler Ennis (spoiler alert) like I project.
4. Utah Jazz - Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board and could even be a top-three pick.
5. Boston Celtics - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here. This coast-to-coast dunk for the 6-foot-9 250-pounder shows his unique skill set for his size:
- View my full 2014 NBA mock draft here
For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.
2014 NFL Draft: 2014 NFL mock draft - NFL draft big board - NFL mock draft database
Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
While some in the group may never live up to their potential at the next level, this year's class certainly does not lack hype.
From now until the 2014 NBA Draft on Thursday, June 26th, my mock will be updated frequently and we will have other mocks from our other contributors as well.
[Follow our basketball updates on Twitter via @HitTheBoards.]
The NBA Draft lottery will take place on May 20th and that could alter the draft order for the first 14 picks, but the order of the non-lottery picks has already been determined.
If you would like to view other opinions, check out our 2014 NBA mock draft database for more mocks.
Otherwise, here is my updated 2014 NBA Mock Draft:
1. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins, SG, Kansas
Entering college with lofty and perhaps unfair expectations, Wiggins received as much hype and buzz as any prep phenom since LeBron James. Before arriving in Lawrence, Wiggins was widely viewed as the consensus top prospect in the draft even if he did not occupy that spot throughout the entire college season.
While Duke's Jabari Parker may be more NBA-ready today, no prospect has as much upside as Wiggins. And while his Jayhawks teammate Joel Embiid was viewed as the top prospect in the draft for much of the college season, there are some concerns about the back injury that sidelined him down the stretch.
Exceptionally quick and explosive, Wiggins has great length (6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan) as a two guard with the versatility to play either forward spot as well. In addition, he's an excellent shooter with good range. If there's a knock on Wiggins, however, it's that he's not as aggressive on the offensive end as he should be at times.
2. Philadelphia 76ers - Jabari Parker, SF, Duke
Although the Sixers miss out on the son of former Sixer Mitchell Wiggins, Parker is an outstanding consolation prize. There was initially some uncertainty about whether he would declare or return to Duke, but Parker is the most NBA-ready prospect in this year's draft class.
While Parker lacks the elite athleticism that Wiggins possesses and his defense is a weakness, Parker can take over a game offensively and score in a variety of ways. Parker will be the odds-on favorite to lead all rookies in scoring next season.
3. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid, C, Kansas
The most important thing with Embiid will be the medical report(s) about his back. Certainly unfair from a comparison standpoint, the name you most often hear is Hakeem Olajuwon when it comes to Embiid, who has only played basketball for about four years.
A very athletic seven-footer, Embiid runs the floor well, can shoot well for his size and has a nice low-post game in addition to being a great rebounder and shot blocker. With Nikola Vucevic already on the roster, Australia's Dante Exum may better fit the team's needs, but I can't see Embiid slipping past this spot (depending on his back, of course).
With a second lottery pick, the Magic can add a point guard like Syracuse's Tyler Ennis (spoiler alert) like I project.
4. Utah Jazz - Dante Exum, PG, Australia
The Australian point guard has outstanding size and length for a point guard with excellent quickness and the ability to get to the rim. While he needs to improve his outside shot, Exum will be the first guard prospect off the board and could even be a top-three pick.
5. Boston Celtics - Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky
Averaging a double-double (15.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game) this season, Randle is the best player available here. This coast-to-coast dunk for the 6-foot-9 250-pounder shows his unique skill set for his size:
- View my full 2014 NBA mock draft here
For more mock drafts, view our NBA Mock Draft Database here.
2014 NFL Draft: 2014 NFL mock draft - NFL draft big board - NFL mock draft database
Follow our basketball updates: Twitter - Facebook - Google+
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