NBA Modern ERA Draft - COMPLETE OTHER THAN SKIPPED PICKS
05-06-2008
, 02:58 PM
05-06-2008
, 02:59 PM
Quote:
Round #1/Pick #2: Shaquille O'Neal
I chose Shaq because many - including me - would argue he's the greatest big man to ever play the game. He is 2nd to MJ in career PER (and is ~significantly better then the 3rd best player, the Admiral). He also had a 5 year peak where in each season he was unquestionably the best player (1998-2003, basically). And since we get to have him in his prime, I'll take any of those years, hopefully 1999-00 where he only missed 3 games including the playoffs. I'm likely building my team around a slow paced offense geared to swing the ball in the paint (don't know when we get to draft our coaches but I have an idea of who I want!!!)
Team so far:
C - Shaquille O'Neal
I chose Shaq because many - including me - would argue he's the greatest big man to ever play the game. He is 2nd to MJ in career PER (and is ~significantly better then the 3rd best player, the Admiral). He also had a 5 year peak where in each season he was unquestionably the best player (1998-2003, basically). And since we get to have him in his prime, I'll take any of those years, hopefully 1999-00 where he only missed 3 games including the playoffs. I'm likely building my team around a slow paced offense geared to swing the ball in the paint (don't know when we get to draft our coaches but I have an idea of who I want!!!)
Team so far:
C - Shaquille O'Neal
05-06-2008
, 03:00 PM
Quote:
Round #1 PIC# 3LEBRON JAMES
At this point, the strategy is just to pick the best available player, no need to worry about position or an overall strategy.
It's not easy to take James over Bird or Magic, but I feel that is as a legit shot at becoming the best player ever.
He 's already amazing but he's still so young. I mean he's only 23., basically the same age as Bird when he plyaed his rookie year.
What's scary is that he has room for improvement. He can add a jumpshot, he be an excellent defender.he has already improved a lot this year.
At this point, the strategy is just to pick the best available player, no need to worry about position or an overall strategy.
It's not easy to take James over Bird or Magic, but I feel that is as a legit shot at becoming the best player ever.
He 's already amazing but he's still so young. I mean he's only 23., basically the same age as Bird when he plyaed his rookie year.
What's scary is that he has room for improvement. He can add a jumpshot, he be an excellent defender.he has already improved a lot this year.
Last edited by Shark Doctor; 05-06-2008 at 03:25 PM.
05-06-2008
, 10:05 PM
Who's next?
05-07-2008
, 01:30 AM
Round #1 / Pick #5 - Larry Bird
I had a lot of choices here, but ultimately had to go with Bird. To be honest, I think he's somewhat underrated by today's crop of kids, thinking he wouldn't even start in today's league because he's "unathletic" (funny how the race thing works the other way, too). Truth is, he's one of the greatest offensive forces to ever play the game. 20/10/6 (28/10/7 in his prime) while always flirting with the coveted 50/40/90 shooters club, probably the best shooter ever. And though he's no defensive stopper, he was a better defender than most think, especially with respect to team D. And the passing!
I don't really consider injury a major concern, either. He really just had that one massive injury that ruined him, and even then we got a few more very good years out of him. Maybe with today's medical advancements he avoids it.. otherwise I'll settle for 8 or 9 dominant years from one of the best to ever play the game.
Team so far:
F - Larry Bird
I had a lot of choices here, but ultimately had to go with Bird. To be honest, I think he's somewhat underrated by today's crop of kids, thinking he wouldn't even start in today's league because he's "unathletic" (funny how the race thing works the other way, too). Truth is, he's one of the greatest offensive forces to ever play the game. 20/10/6 (28/10/7 in his prime) while always flirting with the coveted 50/40/90 shooters club, probably the best shooter ever. And though he's no defensive stopper, he was a better defender than most think, especially with respect to team D. And the passing!
I don't really consider injury a major concern, either. He really just had that one massive injury that ruined him, and even then we got a few more very good years out of him. Maybe with today's medical advancements he avoids it.. otherwise I'll settle for 8 or 9 dominant years from one of the best to ever play the game.
Team so far:
F - Larry Bird
05-07-2008
, 02:02 AM
1.6: Tim Duncan
Post defense wins championships. We're all going to have such stacked teams, and everyones team will be able to score. Whats going to separate our teams is the ability to defend in my opinion. I know its hard to quantify defense, but:
Tim Duncan has been All NBA Defensive Team every year of his career.
Tim Duncan has the highest defensive rating of any player of the modern era.
Tim Duncan is on pace to finish his career with the most defensive win shares of all time.
The Spurs have ranked 2nd, 1st, 2nd, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 1st, 1st, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in points allowed per 100 possessions during Duncan's career.
Honestly I'm barely going to even mention Duncan's offense because none of these teams should have any problem scoring whatsoever. The difference offensively between some of the top picks in this entire draft and some guys who literally go undrafted is really not all that huge. And in my opinions its miniscule compared to the difference in the top defensive players compared to some of the poor defenders who will not only get drafted but will play key minutes on our teams.
One thing though that I will mention regarding Duncan's offensive numbers(and his defensive numbers too) is that the Spurs pace factor has ranked 28th, 27th, 23rd, 23rd, 19th, 20th, 19th, 22nd, 24th, 19th, and 23rd during Duncan's career which obviously means that his bulk numbers are deflated. Moreover this era is lower scoring leaguewide when compared to the 80s/early 90s. Therefore I think Duncan is a much better offensive player than his 21.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists give him credit for. And a better defensive player than his 2.4 blocks and 0.8 steals give him credit for.
Intangibles are good too. Duncan, by all accounts, is a good leader and locker room guy. I've never heard of him having any off the court trouble. Hes stayed with one team his entire career, which is obviously important when building a franchise. Hes never had a major injury despite 3 times being in the top 10 in minutes played, and in 4 seasons he didn't miss a single game.
I hate the Spurs and I hate Duncan. But theres no denying his greatness.
Two time MVP
Three time Finals MVP
4 rings
Post defense wins championships. We're all going to have such stacked teams, and everyones team will be able to score. Whats going to separate our teams is the ability to defend in my opinion. I know its hard to quantify defense, but:
Tim Duncan has been All NBA Defensive Team every year of his career.
Tim Duncan has the highest defensive rating of any player of the modern era.
Tim Duncan is on pace to finish his career with the most defensive win shares of all time.
The Spurs have ranked 2nd, 1st, 2nd, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 1st, 1st, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in points allowed per 100 possessions during Duncan's career.
Honestly I'm barely going to even mention Duncan's offense because none of these teams should have any problem scoring whatsoever. The difference offensively between some of the top picks in this entire draft and some guys who literally go undrafted is really not all that huge. And in my opinions its miniscule compared to the difference in the top defensive players compared to some of the poor defenders who will not only get drafted but will play key minutes on our teams.
One thing though that I will mention regarding Duncan's offensive numbers(and his defensive numbers too) is that the Spurs pace factor has ranked 28th, 27th, 23rd, 23rd, 19th, 20th, 19th, 22nd, 24th, 19th, and 23rd during Duncan's career which obviously means that his bulk numbers are deflated. Moreover this era is lower scoring leaguewide when compared to the 80s/early 90s. Therefore I think Duncan is a much better offensive player than his 21.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists give him credit for. And a better defensive player than his 2.4 blocks and 0.8 steals give him credit for.
Intangibles are good too. Duncan, by all accounts, is a good leader and locker room guy. I've never heard of him having any off the court trouble. Hes stayed with one team his entire career, which is obviously important when building a franchise. Hes never had a major injury despite 3 times being in the top 10 in minutes played, and in 4 seasons he didn't miss a single game.
I hate the Spurs and I hate Duncan. But theres no denying his greatness.
Two time MVP
Three time Finals MVP
4 rings
05-07-2008
, 09:09 AM
Round #1 Pick #7 Team - BiiiiigChips
Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon. Center. 1984-2002.
NBA Titles - 2
NBA Finals MVP - 2
NBA Regular Season MVP - 1
NBA Defensive Player Of The Year - 2
All NBA First Team - 6
All NBA Defensive Team - 5
NBA All Star - 12
Member of NBA's 50 year anniversary "50 Greatest Players" team.
2008 Inductee to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
I'm actually quite stunned that I was able to secure Hakeem at #7. I told my friends about this draft and they asked me what pick I was and I told them #7. They immediately said "That sucks that you won't be able to get Hakeem or Shaq". Once Shaq was off the board I just knew someone would scoop up Hakeem so I already started thinking about another pick but once Lebron and Magic got picked I started thinking that I might have a shot at him. So yes I'm really pleased with getting Hakeem at #7.
Hakeem was hands down the most skilled and athletic big man of his generation. He had an unmatched skill set for a post player. Hakeem could take his man off the dribble from 10-15 feet out and had the most impressive repetoire of post moves that this league has ever seen from a big man. He played in an era full of HOF centers (Abdul-Jabbar, Ewing, O'Neal, Robinson) and was able to consistently turn in dominate performances against all of them. Defensively Hakeem was just as impressive. He was very quick off the floor and had great timing. This lead to his ability to be a superb shot blocker and eraser down low. As far as team leading abilities he took his team to the NBA Finals 94 and 95 came out as a winner twice. In those 2 seasons he was named NBA MVP once, Defensive Player Of The Year once, and was the MVP of the Finals both years.
Hakeem Olajuwon NBA Player Profile.
Hakeem Olajuwon Hilight Reel
Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon. Center. 1984-2002.
NBA Titles - 2
NBA Finals MVP - 2
NBA Regular Season MVP - 1
NBA Defensive Player Of The Year - 2
All NBA First Team - 6
All NBA Defensive Team - 5
NBA All Star - 12
Member of NBA's 50 year anniversary "50 Greatest Players" team.
2008 Inductee to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
I'm actually quite stunned that I was able to secure Hakeem at #7. I told my friends about this draft and they asked me what pick I was and I told them #7. They immediately said "That sucks that you won't be able to get Hakeem or Shaq". Once Shaq was off the board I just knew someone would scoop up Hakeem so I already started thinking about another pick but once Lebron and Magic got picked I started thinking that I might have a shot at him. So yes I'm really pleased with getting Hakeem at #7.
Hakeem was hands down the most skilled and athletic big man of his generation. He had an unmatched skill set for a post player. Hakeem could take his man off the dribble from 10-15 feet out and had the most impressive repetoire of post moves that this league has ever seen from a big man. He played in an era full of HOF centers (Abdul-Jabbar, Ewing, O'Neal, Robinson) and was able to consistently turn in dominate performances against all of them. Defensively Hakeem was just as impressive. He was very quick off the floor and had great timing. This lead to his ability to be a superb shot blocker and eraser down low. As far as team leading abilities he took his team to the NBA Finals 94 and 95 came out as a winner twice. In those 2 seasons he was named NBA MVP once, Defensive Player Of The Year once, and was the MVP of the Finals both years.
Hakeem Olajuwon NBA Player Profile.
Hakeem Olajuwon Hilight Reel
Last edited by ClarkNasty; 05-08-2008 at 10:08 AM.
05-07-2008
, 11:30 AM
1:8 "The Admiral" David Robinson.
The 2nd of the Twin Towers. Is there any denying their greatness?
Robinson entered the league at 24 and immediately made an impact. He was chosen for the All-Star team, 2nd All Defense team, 3rd All NBA team, and was named Rookie of the Year. He would be An All-Star every year from 1990 to 2001, except the year of his freak broken foot in 1997. He won two NBA finals, was the MVP in 1995. But you know all of this, right?
The biggest reason David Robinson is underrated is because people just don't agree how high his peak was. Robinson lead the league in PER three years running: 93-94, 94-95, and 95-96. His PER during this time was over 29. The only two people of this era to have a higher peak are Shaq and Jordan.
But even if you don't like PER, during this time he actually had a scoring title (with close to 30 pts per game), was all defensive twice, and all NBA twice. He averaged 27/11, shot for about 52% and got to the line 11 times per game. Robinson also converted on over 75% of his free throws.
Win Shares? Robinson lead the league the first two years, and the only reason his 53 win shares weren't #1 in 95-96 was because Michael Jordan came back and had 57. The only thing that stopped Robinson's utter dominance were back problems and a freak broken foot injury the following year. Yet, Robinson was ridiculously healthy the rest of his career. And like Duncan, Robinson's dominance came on defense. Robinson lead the league in defensive rating 5 times and has the third best defensive rating in the era, behind only Duncan and Ben Wallace. He lead the league in defensive Win Shares 4 times and is 3rd, behind only Hakeem and Karl Malone - despite playing many less games than they did.
The only problem with Robinson's career was that it was too short. However, pretty much all of that comes from the fact that he started at 24 and missed his age 29 season. Neither of these should be a problem in this league.
The 2nd of the Twin Towers. Is there any denying their greatness?
Robinson entered the league at 24 and immediately made an impact. He was chosen for the All-Star team, 2nd All Defense team, 3rd All NBA team, and was named Rookie of the Year. He would be An All-Star every year from 1990 to 2001, except the year of his freak broken foot in 1997. He won two NBA finals, was the MVP in 1995. But you know all of this, right?
The biggest reason David Robinson is underrated is because people just don't agree how high his peak was. Robinson lead the league in PER three years running: 93-94, 94-95, and 95-96. His PER during this time was over 29. The only two people of this era to have a higher peak are Shaq and Jordan.
But even if you don't like PER, during this time he actually had a scoring title (with close to 30 pts per game), was all defensive twice, and all NBA twice. He averaged 27/11, shot for about 52% and got to the line 11 times per game. Robinson also converted on over 75% of his free throws.
Win Shares? Robinson lead the league the first two years, and the only reason his 53 win shares weren't #1 in 95-96 was because Michael Jordan came back and had 57. The only thing that stopped Robinson's utter dominance were back problems and a freak broken foot injury the following year. Yet, Robinson was ridiculously healthy the rest of his career. And like Duncan, Robinson's dominance came on defense. Robinson lead the league in defensive rating 5 times and has the third best defensive rating in the era, behind only Duncan and Ben Wallace. He lead the league in defensive Win Shares 4 times and is 3rd, behind only Hakeem and Karl Malone - despite playing many less games than they did.
The only problem with Robinson's career was that it was too short. However, pretty much all of that comes from the fact that he started at 24 and missed his age 29 season. Neither of these should be a problem in this league.
05-07-2008
, 04:32 PM
Pick #1:9 - Seadood228
KEVIN GARNETT
I was half hoping Hakeem and DR would be taken, because I wanted to take this guy but couldn't justify it with those two on the boards. Like the last three picks, I'm sticking with a defensive anchor as my main focus. It took KG a little while to mature on the defensive end of the ball, but it's hard to argue with 9 straight defensive All NBA teams (7 1st team if you include this year) and one defensive player of the year. While not a prototypical shot blocker, he's one of the best on-ball defenders for a big man and a great help defender as well. More importantly, he's proven this year that he has the ability to lead a very stellar defense. Rebounding-wise, he's consistently lead or been at the top of the league in defensive rebounding % throughout his career.
Offensively, he's been at a level just below his defense. He's a capable scorer, but more importantly he's one of the best passers at his position, averaging 4.4 assists throughout his career, more than 5 for half his career. He has a great back to the basket finesse game, and can hit the wide open jumper when called upon.
The only two negatives I have are a) his relative lack of wins, particularly in big games and b) his relative "softness" on the inside. I'm willing to dismiss the first as bad luck and bad coaching (hopefully when this is all over this argument will be moot :
). As far as his offensive playing style, he makes up for this with his high FT% and passing ability, which imo will be more important given the teams we are building.
Awards -
2003-4 MVP
2007-8 Defensive Player of the Year
2002-3 All Star Game MVP (whoopty-do)
7 All Defensive 1st teams
2 All Defensive 2nd teams
KEVIN GARNETT
I was half hoping Hakeem and DR would be taken, because I wanted to take this guy but couldn't justify it with those two on the boards. Like the last three picks, I'm sticking with a defensive anchor as my main focus. It took KG a little while to mature on the defensive end of the ball, but it's hard to argue with 9 straight defensive All NBA teams (7 1st team if you include this year) and one defensive player of the year. While not a prototypical shot blocker, he's one of the best on-ball defenders for a big man and a great help defender as well. More importantly, he's proven this year that he has the ability to lead a very stellar defense. Rebounding-wise, he's consistently lead or been at the top of the league in defensive rebounding % throughout his career.
Offensively, he's been at a level just below his defense. He's a capable scorer, but more importantly he's one of the best passers at his position, averaging 4.4 assists throughout his career, more than 5 for half his career. He has a great back to the basket finesse game, and can hit the wide open jumper when called upon.
The only two negatives I have are a) his relative lack of wins, particularly in big games and b) his relative "softness" on the inside. I'm willing to dismiss the first as bad luck and bad coaching (hopefully when this is all over this argument will be moot :
). As far as his offensive playing style, he makes up for this with his high FT% and passing ability, which imo will be more important given the teams we are building.Awards -
2003-4 MVP
2007-8 Defensive Player of the Year
2002-3 All Star Game MVP (whoopty-do)
7 All Defensive 1st teams
2 All Defensive 2nd teams
05-07-2008
, 06:49 PM
Round 1, Pick 10: Kobe Bryant
With KG taken right before me, I'll have to settle for the best offensive player of the last 10 years. People forget that he was only in his early 20s when he won all those titles. At 24, the year that I'm getting him, he averaged 30/6/7, with 2.2 steals and a .383 three point %, while playing 82 games. That's not to say that he is a defensive slouch either, as shown by his 5 All Defense first teams. His height and quickness allows him to guard most SG's and SF's with ease. Critics will point to his low PER and shooting percentage, but it's hard not to take bad shots when your starters include Smush Parker and Chris Mihm, and you're still forcing game 7 against a loaded Suns team. With a better roster this year, Kobe took his team to the 1 seed and a, thus far, undefeated playoff record, despite still having a worse supporting cast than Duncan's Spurs or Garnett's Celtics, on the way to finally winning his first MVP. His fluidness, confidence, and agility has made him the closest thing yet to the next Jordan.
2007-08 MVP
10 time All-Star
2 Scoring Titles
5 All-NBA
5 All-NBA Defense
3 Rings
With KG taken right before me, I'll have to settle for the best offensive player of the last 10 years. People forget that he was only in his early 20s when he won all those titles. At 24, the year that I'm getting him, he averaged 30/6/7, with 2.2 steals and a .383 three point %, while playing 82 games. That's not to say that he is a defensive slouch either, as shown by his 5 All Defense first teams. His height and quickness allows him to guard most SG's and SF's with ease. Critics will point to his low PER and shooting percentage, but it's hard not to take bad shots when your starters include Smush Parker and Chris Mihm, and you're still forcing game 7 against a loaded Suns team. With a better roster this year, Kobe took his team to the 1 seed and a, thus far, undefeated playoff record, despite still having a worse supporting cast than Duncan's Spurs or Garnett's Celtics, on the way to finally winning his first MVP. His fluidness, confidence, and agility has made him the closest thing yet to the next Jordan.
2007-08 MVP
10 time All-Star
2 Scoring Titles
5 All-NBA
5 All-NBA Defense
3 Rings
05-07-2008
, 11:27 PM
Round#1/Pick#11: Chris Paul
Did I just pick Chris Paul with the 11th overall pick???
Considering all my big men on my list were already chosen (Shaq,Hakeem,DRob,TD)...I figured I needed a leader on the floor - and who better than CP3. At 22 years of age (his 3rd full NBA season in the league), Chris has put up MVP caliber numbers with 21.2ppg, 11.6apg and 2.7spg all while shooting an impressive 48.8% from the field (comparable to Magic Johnsons numbers). These numbers speak for themselves. If it wasnt for Kobe and his lifetime acheivement award, you would be looking at the 2007-2008 NBA MVP!
Chris has steadily increased his numbers each year, and considering his young age - I dont see him stopping anytime soon. If there are records to break - hes the guys. If you put a ceiling on this guys potential - be prepared to go convertable...this kid is the real deal - and he has only just begun. Lets say - for some odd reason, he plateaus here...well - then, this is one heluva plateau to be on...these are the kinds of plateaus many would classify as ELITE!...but theres no doubt in my mind - he will improve on his numbers year after year (as he has done every season so far).
Numbers are great!...but Chris is more than just about numbers, he is a true leader. Chris has lead his team to a 2nd seed and an impressive 56-26 record in arguably the toughest conference in NBA history. He helped re-ignite the fire in Tyson Chandler, helped David West (David who?) become an All Star for the first time in his career and was a huge reason why Peja found his stroke back. He elevates the standard of play (like only elite players can) in every single player that steps onto the court with him, and I expect him to do the same on my team. Above all - he is a leader...he is a winner...and willl be a leader for a championship squad in the near future (if not this year).
Along with his All Star nomination this past year, we should also expect him to be put on the All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team (maybe Second Team)...all whle finishing second in the MVP Voting (robbed). The scary part is - the best is yet to come.
I just picked Chris Paul with the 11th overall pick in the draft...and I couldnt be happier.
My Team so far:
PG - Chris Paul
LurchySoprano you are on the clock....
Did I just pick Chris Paul with the 11th overall pick???
Considering all my big men on my list were already chosen (Shaq,Hakeem,DRob,TD)...I figured I needed a leader on the floor - and who better than CP3. At 22 years of age (his 3rd full NBA season in the league), Chris has put up MVP caliber numbers with 21.2ppg, 11.6apg and 2.7spg all while shooting an impressive 48.8% from the field (comparable to Magic Johnsons numbers). These numbers speak for themselves. If it wasnt for Kobe and his lifetime acheivement award, you would be looking at the 2007-2008 NBA MVP!
Chris has steadily increased his numbers each year, and considering his young age - I dont see him stopping anytime soon. If there are records to break - hes the guys. If you put a ceiling on this guys potential - be prepared to go convertable...this kid is the real deal - and he has only just begun. Lets say - for some odd reason, he plateaus here...well - then, this is one heluva plateau to be on...these are the kinds of plateaus many would classify as ELITE!...but theres no doubt in my mind - he will improve on his numbers year after year (as he has done every season so far).
Numbers are great!...but Chris is more than just about numbers, he is a true leader. Chris has lead his team to a 2nd seed and an impressive 56-26 record in arguably the toughest conference in NBA history. He helped re-ignite the fire in Tyson Chandler, helped David West (David who?) become an All Star for the first time in his career and was a huge reason why Peja found his stroke back. He elevates the standard of play (like only elite players can) in every single player that steps onto the court with him, and I expect him to do the same on my team. Above all - he is a leader...he is a winner...and willl be a leader for a championship squad in the near future (if not this year).
Along with his All Star nomination this past year, we should also expect him to be put on the All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team (maybe Second Team)...all whle finishing second in the MVP Voting (robbed). The scary part is - the best is yet to come.
I just picked Chris Paul with the 11th overall pick in the draft...and I couldnt be happier.
My Team so far:
PG - Chris Paul
LurchySoprano you are on the clock....
Last edited by Shark Doctor; 05-07-2008 at 11:33 PM.
05-08-2008
, 02:50 AM
Round 1, Pick 12
Karl Malone
With so many elite big men taken before me, I took either the best or the second best PF of all time (depending on your point of view) with the 12th pick in the draft.
Malone had a 11 year stretch where he averaged 25+ ppg and 9.7+ rpg and missed no more than 2 regular season games in any season. In addition, Malone had 14 straight finishes in the top 10 of the NBA MVP voting. While he didn't walk away with a ring, its impossible to argue that Malone was not one of the top 20 players in NBA history.
2 NBA MVP Awards (96-97, 98-99)
10 Time First Team All NBA
14 Time All Star
Career Averages of 25ppg and 10.1 rpg
Career Playoff Averages of 24.7 ppg and 10.7 rpg
All Defensive 1st or 2nd team 4 times
HighStakesPro, you are on the clock...
Karl Malone
With so many elite big men taken before me, I took either the best or the second best PF of all time (depending on your point of view) with the 12th pick in the draft.
Malone had a 11 year stretch where he averaged 25+ ppg and 9.7+ rpg and missed no more than 2 regular season games in any season. In addition, Malone had 14 straight finishes in the top 10 of the NBA MVP voting. While he didn't walk away with a ring, its impossible to argue that Malone was not one of the top 20 players in NBA history.
2 NBA MVP Awards (96-97, 98-99)
10 Time First Team All NBA
14 Time All Star
Career Averages of 25ppg and 10.1 rpg
Career Playoff Averages of 24.7 ppg and 10.7 rpg
All Defensive 1st or 2nd team 4 times
HighStakesPro, you are on the clock...
05-08-2008
, 01:40 PM
Round #1, Pick #13: Charles Barkley
Sir Charles was one of the toughest, most ferocious competitors of his era, and one of the most dominant power forwards ever despite standing just 6'4.
Charles was always underappreciated due to never playing on a championship caliber team, and never getting the chance to play with another star in his prime like many higher selections did. At the age of 24, he had just come off a season in which he led the league in rebounding at 14.6 per game. He averaged 22/12 throughout his 16-seasons, and had a peak of 6 years where he averaged 26/12/4, capped by his 1993 MVP season when he took Phoenix to the finals. Barkley was a player who competed as hard as anyone at both ends of the floor and had an insatiable will to win.
Franchise 60, you are next.
Sir Charles was one of the toughest, most ferocious competitors of his era, and one of the most dominant power forwards ever despite standing just 6'4.
Charles was always underappreciated due to never playing on a championship caliber team, and never getting the chance to play with another star in his prime like many higher selections did. At the age of 24, he had just come off a season in which he led the league in rebounding at 14.6 per game. He averaged 22/12 throughout his 16-seasons, and had a peak of 6 years where he averaged 26/12/4, capped by his 1993 MVP season when he took Phoenix to the finals. Barkley was a player who competed as hard as anyone at both ends of the floor and had an insatiable will to win.
Franchise 60, you are next.
Last edited by ClarkNasty; 05-08-2008 at 02:05 PM.
05-08-2008
, 02:53 PM
Round #1/Pick #14: John Stockton
With the run on big men, one of the best PG's of all time fell to me at #14. Stockton is the all time leader in assists and steals, and his longevity and durability are unmatched. Stockton played in all 82 games in 16 out of his 19 seasons. His peek is also nothing to overlook: 17.2 PPG, 14.5 APG, 2.7 SPG, .416 3PT %, and .514 FG% in 89-90. Stockton is also one of the greatest defensive PG's off all time.
I believe Stockton is a great value here, and a great pick to start a franchise with. He can pass, shoot, defend, and he can do it all at an extremely high level. He will make the rest of the players on my team better.
10x NBA All-Star
2x All-NBA 1st Team
6x All-NBA 2nd Team
3x All-NBA 3rd Team
5x All-NBA Defensive 2nd team
Super White.
My team is far:
PG- John Stockton
flyingmoose, you are on the clock...
With the run on big men, one of the best PG's of all time fell to me at #14. Stockton is the all time leader in assists and steals, and his longevity and durability are unmatched. Stockton played in all 82 games in 16 out of his 19 seasons. His peek is also nothing to overlook: 17.2 PPG, 14.5 APG, 2.7 SPG, .416 3PT %, and .514 FG% in 89-90. Stockton is also one of the greatest defensive PG's off all time.
I believe Stockton is a great value here, and a great pick to start a franchise with. He can pass, shoot, defend, and he can do it all at an extremely high level. He will make the rest of the players on my team better.
10x NBA All-Star
2x All-NBA 1st Team
6x All-NBA 2nd Team
3x All-NBA 3rd Team
5x All-NBA Defensive 2nd team
Super White.
My team is far:
PG- John Stockton
flyingmoose, you are on the clock...
05-08-2008
, 06:19 PM
Round #1 Pick #15: Isiah Thomas
In my opinion the best 6-footer the game has seen so far. A great scorer with a fantastic midrange game, a superb defender, great distributer and a scarsely seen ability to get to the rim.
12x NBA All-Star
2x NBA All-Star Game MVP
3x All NBA First Team
2x All-NBA second team
2x NBA Champion
NBA Finals MVP
One of the things I like best about Isiah is how he always played best when it counted. Here are some highlights from Isiah's playoff career:
--He had 24 points in the third quarter of a 1987 playoff game against the Atlanta Hawks.
--He set an NBA Finals record in 1988, when he scored 25 points in the third quarter of Game 6. He did that with a severely sprained ankle.
--He was the Most Valuable Player of the 1990 Finals, when he averaged 27.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.2 rebounds against Portland.
In Game One, Isiah scored 16 points in the 4th quarter (finishing with 33 for the game) rallying the Pistons from ten points down with seven minutes remaining. He scored 22 points in a quarter later in those Finals.
dtemp you are next
In my opinion the best 6-footer the game has seen so far. A great scorer with a fantastic midrange game, a superb defender, great distributer and a scarsely seen ability to get to the rim.
12x NBA All-Star
2x NBA All-Star Game MVP
3x All NBA First Team
2x All-NBA second team
2x NBA Champion
NBA Finals MVP
One of the things I like best about Isiah is how he always played best when it counted. Here are some highlights from Isiah's playoff career:
--He had 24 points in the third quarter of a 1987 playoff game against the Atlanta Hawks.
--He set an NBA Finals record in 1988, when he scored 25 points in the third quarter of Game 6. He did that with a severely sprained ankle.
--He was the Most Valuable Player of the 1990 Finals, when he averaged 27.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.2 rebounds against Portland.
In Game One, Isiah scored 16 points in the 4th quarter (finishing with 33 for the game) rallying the Pistons from ten points down with seven minutes remaining. He scored 22 points in a quarter later in those Finals.
dtemp you are next
05-09-2008
, 01:48 AM
Round #1 Pick #16: Dirk Nowitzki
Not a homer pick, I swear! This was actually one of the more difficult picks since most of the gimmes were already chosen. I had this choice down to him, a center, and certain small foward both of whom played better defense than Dirk. However, Dirk is such an awesome offensive force. He creates a lot of match up problems due to his size. He also commits very few turnovers.
On defense, he isn't the greatest but more than capable due to his size alone. His offensive prowess more than makes up for his shortcomings though. And he has improved a lot since he was 24. You just need to surround him with a few capable two way players and you're fine. Plus his proven ability to play in drastically different paced and run offense makes him easy to build a team around.
Oh yeah, he's also had an awesome per for the past 5 seasons.
capone0, you're next
Not a homer pick, I swear! This was actually one of the more difficult picks since most of the gimmes were already chosen. I had this choice down to him, a center, and certain small foward both of whom played better defense than Dirk. However, Dirk is such an awesome offensive force. He creates a lot of match up problems due to his size. He also commits very few turnovers.
On defense, he isn't the greatest but more than capable due to his size alone. His offensive prowess more than makes up for his shortcomings though. And he has improved a lot since he was 24. You just need to surround him with a few capable two way players and you're fine. Plus his proven ability to play in drastically different paced and run offense makes him easy to build a team around.
Oh yeah, he's also had an awesome per for the past 5 seasons.
capone0, you're next
Last edited by dtemp; 05-09-2008 at 02:11 AM.
05-09-2008
, 02:38 PM
Round #1 Pick #17: Dwight Howard
At 22 He's already a freak. Leading the league in rebounding. As others have gone, I'll go with another great big man. He's first team All-NBA this year. Has a freak body and freak skills. Like Shaq he needs to work on his free throws but other than that and passing/TOs his defensive and offensive game are pretty strong in the paint.
I know his career has been pretty short, but big men come at a premium in the NBA and for my pick I'm pretty happy about it.
Noah your next.
At 22 He's already a freak. Leading the league in rebounding. As others have gone, I'll go with another great big man. He's first team All-NBA this year. Has a freak body and freak skills. Like Shaq he needs to work on his free throws but other than that and passing/TOs his defensive and offensive game are pretty strong in the paint.
I know his career has been pretty short, but big men come at a premium in the NBA and for my pick I'm pretty happy about it.
Noah your next.
Last edited by capone0; 05-09-2008 at 02:49 PM.
05-10-2008
, 02:59 PM
Round #1, Pick #18 Patrick Ewing
How Patrick drops this far is amazing, but gratifying for Noah (Clark). The starting center for the Dream Team, Patrick is without any question one of the greatest centers to ever play the game, and judging by this draft, one of the more underappreciated.
Patrick may well be the poster child for the hard luck superstar in the Jordan era. In 1992 the Ewing-led Knicks were one of only two teams to push the Jordan Bulls to 7 games (the other the Pacers in the final Bulls title season). They lost that game, and lost the following year due to the infamous Charles Smith game, despite having home court. The following year, Jordan in retirement, the Knicks marched to the Finals, only to barely lose in Game 6 and face heartbreak in Game 7 when John Starks lit fire to their title hopes.
Even at an advanced age, with a variety of injury concerns, Ewing helped to get the Knicks to the Finals for a second time, as an 8-seed, where they fell to the Spurs.
Voted one of the 50 greatest players, he's also one of the more underappreciated defensive forces. Never winning DPOY, he certainly had some years that arguably could've qualified. For those who like defensive win shares, he has 5 of the top 27 seasons recorded (including the 4th best ever, which is higher than Duncan, Robinson and Garnett). Prefer defensive rating? He has the 5th best season of anyone in this draft. And obviously, he was a force on offense.
His career statline of 21/10/2/1/2.5 at 50% from the floor and 71% from the line belies just how awesome he was in his prime. PER lovers will like his 11 straight years over 20, including his best year of 1990 where he averaged 27pts, 10rebs, 2assts, 1stl and 4blocks while playing every game and averaging 55% from the floor, but that doesn't tell the story of how much this Hall of Famer dominated.
Honors
Rookie of the Year (1986)
11-time All-Star; One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996)
All-NBA First Team (1990)
All-NBA Second Team (1988, '89, '91, '92, '93, '97)
NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1988, '89, '92)
2-time Olympic gold medalist (1984, '92)
NCAA Basketball Tournament Most Outstanding Player (1984)
Naismith College Player of the Year in (1985).
How Patrick drops this far is amazing, but gratifying for Noah (Clark). The starting center for the Dream Team, Patrick is without any question one of the greatest centers to ever play the game, and judging by this draft, one of the more underappreciated.
Patrick may well be the poster child for the hard luck superstar in the Jordan era. In 1992 the Ewing-led Knicks were one of only two teams to push the Jordan Bulls to 7 games (the other the Pacers in the final Bulls title season). They lost that game, and lost the following year due to the infamous Charles Smith game, despite having home court. The following year, Jordan in retirement, the Knicks marched to the Finals, only to barely lose in Game 6 and face heartbreak in Game 7 when John Starks lit fire to their title hopes.
Even at an advanced age, with a variety of injury concerns, Ewing helped to get the Knicks to the Finals for a second time, as an 8-seed, where they fell to the Spurs.
Voted one of the 50 greatest players, he's also one of the more underappreciated defensive forces. Never winning DPOY, he certainly had some years that arguably could've qualified. For those who like defensive win shares, he has 5 of the top 27 seasons recorded (including the 4th best ever, which is higher than Duncan, Robinson and Garnett). Prefer defensive rating? He has the 5th best season of anyone in this draft. And obviously, he was a force on offense.
His career statline of 21/10/2/1/2.5 at 50% from the floor and 71% from the line belies just how awesome he was in his prime. PER lovers will like his 11 straight years over 20, including his best year of 1990 where he averaged 27pts, 10rebs, 2assts, 1stl and 4blocks while playing every game and averaging 55% from the floor, but that doesn't tell the story of how much this Hall of Famer dominated.
Honors
Rookie of the Year (1986)
11-time All-Star; One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996)
All-NBA First Team (1990)
All-NBA Second Team (1988, '89, '91, '92, '93, '97)
NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1988, '89, '92)
2-time Olympic gold medalist (1984, '92)
NCAA Basketball Tournament Most Outstanding Player (1984)
Naismith College Player of the Year in (1985).
Last edited by ClarkNasty; 05-10-2008 at 06:42 PM.
05-10-2008
, 05:51 PM
Round 1 Pick 19
Clyde Drexler
Really gotta go now so
JLTNYK is up
Clyde Drexler
Really gotta go now so
Quote:
Drexler was famed for his speed and finesse on the court, and his easy-going and quiet demeanor off the court. At University of Houston, Drexler became well-known for his exceptional abilities as a finisher, but generally was not considered a great shooter. During his pro career Drexler developed a much more well-rounded game, even becoming an effective post player. His extraordinary leaping abilities allowed him to be an acrobatic dunker. This earned Drexler the nickname "Clyde the Glide".
Drexler was regarded as a versatile player, and he was consistently among the leaders at his position in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. He also posted a considerable number of blocked shots for a player his size, ranking third for his career totals among guards.
He is one of only three players in NBA history to have posted career totals of at least 20,000 points, 6,000 rebounds and 6,000 assists (the two others being Oscar Robertson and John Havlicek). As of 2008, Drexler leads all guards with his career average of offensive rebounds with 2.4 per game.
Drexler was regarded as a versatile player, and he was consistently among the leaders at his position in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. He also posted a considerable number of blocked shots for a player his size, ranking third for his career totals among guards.
He is one of only three players in NBA history to have posted career totals of at least 20,000 points, 6,000 rebounds and 6,000 assists (the two others being Oscar Robertson and John Havlicek). As of 2008, Drexler leads all guards with his career average of offensive rebounds with 2.4 per game.
Last edited by ClarkNasty; 05-10-2008 at 06:44 PM.
05-10-2008
, 07:14 PM
Round 1 Pick 20
Jason Kidd
I narrowed it down to two PGs here and both were pretty close when I looked at a statistical comparison. I gave the nod to Kidd for his more completely well-rounded game. With 111 career triple doubles(11 playoff), Kidd is third to only Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson in that category. With a 14 year career average of 14.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 9.3 APG I feel like he's the best player available to build around. If I end up going small/athletic Kidd is the perfect guy to grab the board and start the break on his own. I also feel like he's capable of running a slower paced offense. He's put in a ton of work to improve his offensive game to avoid teams doubling off of him. He's also no defensive slouch often times guarding taller two guards due to his upper body strength. Durability also isn't a major concern as Kidd has battled to remain on the court.
Honors
9 All-Star Teams
5 Time All-NBA First Team, 1 Time All-NBA Second Team
4 Time All-Defensive First Team, 5 Time All-Defensive Second Team
1995 Co-Rookie of the Year
2000 USA Gold Medalist in Sydney (Record of 44-0 with team USA...expected to lead the team in 2008)
1992 High School Player of the Year
EPiPeN11 on the clock
Jason Kidd
I narrowed it down to two PGs here and both were pretty close when I looked at a statistical comparison. I gave the nod to Kidd for his more completely well-rounded game. With 111 career triple doubles(11 playoff), Kidd is third to only Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson in that category. With a 14 year career average of 14.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 9.3 APG I feel like he's the best player available to build around. If I end up going small/athletic Kidd is the perfect guy to grab the board and start the break on his own. I also feel like he's capable of running a slower paced offense. He's put in a ton of work to improve his offensive game to avoid teams doubling off of him. He's also no defensive slouch often times guarding taller two guards due to his upper body strength. Durability also isn't a major concern as Kidd has battled to remain on the court.
Honors
9 All-Star Teams
5 Time All-NBA First Team, 1 Time All-NBA Second Team
4 Time All-Defensive First Team, 5 Time All-Defensive Second Team
1995 Co-Rookie of the Year
2000 USA Gold Medalist in Sydney (Record of 44-0 with team USA...expected to lead the team in 2008)
1992 High School Player of the Year
EPiPeN11 on the clock
05-11-2008
, 02:05 PM
Round 1, Pick #22 Amare Stoudamire
sorry if i dont write a great essay here but im actually busy for once.
im taking stoudemire bc hes an awesome and versatile scorer. it should be very easy to build a team around him bc he can run and can score in the half court set. he is possibly the most explosive player in the nba today and ever so his skillset will always be valuable.
so long as hes healthy, which is a concern. so is defense. but he is such a sick athlete that its also very possible he develops into a defensive monster and rick carlisle has a history of orchestrating such transformations.
some honors: 3 time all star. rookie of the year. 1st team all nba (stolen from lebron but whatever.) 2nd team all nba twice.
amare is perenially one of the most efficient offensive players in terms of per, true shooting % and shooting percentage. he rates very high in win shares and offensive win shares but im not really sure what that means. i think it means he scores on fools with ease. i like that.
sorry if i dont write a great essay here but im actually busy for once.
im taking stoudemire bc hes an awesome and versatile scorer. it should be very easy to build a team around him bc he can run and can score in the half court set. he is possibly the most explosive player in the nba today and ever so his skillset will always be valuable.
so long as hes healthy, which is a concern. so is defense. but he is such a sick athlete that its also very possible he develops into a defensive monster and rick carlisle has a history of orchestrating such transformations.
some honors: 3 time all star. rookie of the year. 1st team all nba (stolen from lebron but whatever.) 2nd team all nba twice.
amare is perenially one of the most efficient offensive players in terms of per, true shooting % and shooting percentage. he rates very high in win shares and offensive win shares but im not really sure what that means. i think it means he scores on fools with ease. i like that.
05-12-2008
, 01:08 PM
Round 1, Pick 23
Alonzo Mourning
A defensive anchor for my team, Zo is an efficient center who will get you 20/11/4. He was a 7-time allstar and 2-time DPOY. Zo was sidelined at 30 with kidney disease, which shouldn't affect him in this game.
Alonzo Mourning
A defensive anchor for my team, Zo is an efficient center who will get you 20/11/4. He was a 7-time allstar and 2-time DPOY. Zo was sidelined at 30 with kidney disease, which shouldn't affect him in this game.
05-12-2008
, 02:20 PM
Round 1, Pick #24 "The Human Highlight Film" Dominique Wilkins (Forward/Guard)
“We all know that I was not one of the 50 greatest, I was one of the 25 greatest -- in my mind.” - Dominique Wilkins
Snubbed by the NBA’s 50 greatest players list, Jaques Dominique Wilkins, a.k.a. the “Human Highlight Film”, was the face of the Atlanta Hawks throughout the 1980s and the early 1990s. A nine-time all-star, Wilkins was the ninth leading scorer of all-time and led the league in points per game in 1986 with 30.3 points per game. In fact, Wilkins averaged over 25 points per game in 10 consecutive seasons. After tearing his Achilles tendon in the 1991-92 season, Wilkins averaged 29.9 ppg in 1992-93. Wilkins was also in the top 10 in PER for seven consecutive seasons beginning in 1985-86.
Wilkins excelled throughout his career without much of a supporting cast, although he did play with an aging Moses Malone from 1988-89 to 1990-91. Wilkins never made it past the Eastern Conference Semifinals, but he did give Bird and the Celtics a mighty scare one year. I hope to surround Wilkins with other outstanding athletes and find a creative coach who can use such athleticism to create mismatches and frustrate the other team.
Stats: http://www.basketball-reference.com/...wilkido01.html
Bio: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominique_Wilkins
Top 10 Dunks: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyUf-9ruJi8
(#6 is particularly nasty!)
“We all know that I was not one of the 50 greatest, I was one of the 25 greatest -- in my mind.” - Dominique Wilkins
Snubbed by the NBA’s 50 greatest players list, Jaques Dominique Wilkins, a.k.a. the “Human Highlight Film”, was the face of the Atlanta Hawks throughout the 1980s and the early 1990s. A nine-time all-star, Wilkins was the ninth leading scorer of all-time and led the league in points per game in 1986 with 30.3 points per game. In fact, Wilkins averaged over 25 points per game in 10 consecutive seasons. After tearing his Achilles tendon in the 1991-92 season, Wilkins averaged 29.9 ppg in 1992-93. Wilkins was also in the top 10 in PER for seven consecutive seasons beginning in 1985-86.
Wilkins excelled throughout his career without much of a supporting cast, although he did play with an aging Moses Malone from 1988-89 to 1990-91. Wilkins never made it past the Eastern Conference Semifinals, but he did give Bird and the Celtics a mighty scare one year. I hope to surround Wilkins with other outstanding athletes and find a creative coach who can use such athleticism to create mismatches and frustrate the other team.
Stats: http://www.basketball-reference.com/...wilkido01.html
Bio: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominique_Wilkins
Top 10 Dunks: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyUf-9ruJi8
(#6 is particularly nasty!)
05-12-2008
, 08:59 PM
Sorry for the delay...
My pick- Rd. 1 Pick 25
Scottie Pippen
A member of the NBA at 50 team, Pippen is selected here because of his versatility. A 7-time All Star, Pip is of course best known as second banana to Jordan. However, Scottie proved himself capable as a primary option during MJ's hiatus, leading the Bulls to 55 wins in 93-94, putting up a line of 22ppg/8.7RPG/5.6 APG/ 2.9SPG. Scottie was an outstanding defender, consistently near the top of the league in steals, and was a 10-time All-NBA defensive team selection (8 1st teams). Scottie is a pick who can bring the ball up, guard the perimeter, and score when need be. He might have been a 2nd banana to Jordan, but he'll serve just fine as the cornerstone of my team.
My pick- Rd. 1 Pick 25
Scottie Pippen
A member of the NBA at 50 team, Pippen is selected here because of his versatility. A 7-time All Star, Pip is of course best known as second banana to Jordan. However, Scottie proved himself capable as a primary option during MJ's hiatus, leading the Bulls to 55 wins in 93-94, putting up a line of 22ppg/8.7RPG/5.6 APG/ 2.9SPG. Scottie was an outstanding defender, consistently near the top of the league in steals, and was a 10-time All-NBA defensive team selection (8 1st teams). Scottie is a pick who can bring the ball up, guard the perimeter, and score when need be. He might have been a 2nd banana to Jordan, but he'll serve just fine as the cornerstone of my team.