Post by Warriors GM (Ethan) on May 18, 2012 23:35:12 GMT -5
Landon and I are proud to announce our 2nd set of Commencement draft evaluations. These are the Round 2 Picks and subsequent analysis.
I must again stress that I hope no one is offended by these grades. Especially in the 2nd round, things are crazy. I believe I speak for both Landon and I, we mean no offense and hope you DO prove us wrong then with your pick. Enjoy.
31) Pistons: Stephen Curry, GS
Ethan: B+. The first pick to start off the draft is definitely great. Curry was ranked as top 15 to start last season. The problem of course is injuries. And in my opinion, you can't trust him this high in the 2nd round when plenty more talent awaits. He may also lose time to Charles Jenkins and Klay Thompson if he can't avoid the injury bug.
Landon: A, Curry has always been an injury risk, but I still believe in him and I don't think he's gonna go "Brandon Roy" on all of us. He's the best pick an owner could make at this point in the draft and Pistons has a great combo at the guard position with Kobe and Curry. If Curry stays healthy he will be a fantasy beast.
32) Wizards: James Harden, OKC
Ethan: A+, Solid, solid pick right here. Harden is a favorite of early analysts all across the board for next season as he is only getting better. The part that makes him near elite is his ability to contribute all-around. McKitish dubbed him the close 2nd best SG behind Pierce and I think this is great value for someone who shouldve gone earlier.
Landon: A+, I am in love with Harden. He does EVERYTHING but block in fantasy. He shoots a high FG%, gets to the line and makes it at a mid-80% clip and he can shoot the triple. Assists and rebounds are always there for him as well. I was even considering selecting him over LaMarcus in the 1st round.
33) Celtics: Serge Ibaka, OKC
Ethan: A+, Celtics' selection will get the rare A+ from me 2nd time in a row. Ibaka is very valuable in a category league. His block numbers were crazy (4.7 in the last month) and that essentially wins you the category week in week out in a league of this depth. With such an important stat locked down, I think he's well worth the pick and shouldve done earlier just based on this asset.
Landon: A, this is a very, very solid pick. Ibaka doesn't score 20 a night nor does he grab 15 boards a night but he certainly makes up for that by blocking shots at an insane rate. This man can hold down the blocks category by himself and he is fully capable of averaging a double double each game. That being said it will be very hard for him to find his shots because of the Thunder's big 3 in Westbrook, Durant and Harden.
34) Bobcats: Al Jefferson, Uta
Ethan: A, Bobcats continues the great selection with Jefferson. Now that I'm observing the board to look at trends, it's clear Jefferson is an elite talent who dropped off here due to contract. But this late, he's well worth the pick. And with centers dwindling down, this guy has top-10 potential at the 30s. Nice pick as I was hoping he would be there for me.
Landon: A, Al Jefferson is a fantasy stud. He's at his prime right now and is better than he ever will be. Even with his one year contract Bobcats will be fully capable of resigning him. It doesn't hurt that he plays at a very shallow position. This is a great first pick by Bobcats.
35) Warriors: Al Horford, Atl
Ethan: [SELF-SELECTION]
Landon: B-, While I absolutely love Horford and see him as one of the more underrated players in the game, as the second round continued I saw less and less of a reason for Ethan to trade up for this pick. There were still many very good centers still on the board near his original pick (Roy Hibbert, Joakim Noah). That being said, Horford is still a very good pick, but I know for a fact that Ethan regretted moving up.
36) Nets: Arron Afflalo, Den
Ethan: D, I just don't see how this makes sense. In my draft analysis, I'm thinking relative to the teams, and I'm also consdiering this from all angles.This is just a flat out BAD pick. One GM (Suns I believe) voiced that he thought Afflalo would go in the 4th or 5th. While I think that was a stretch, it's still very clear that this was not the best choice. If he was going for contract, you have George, who has a QO as well. If you're going for talent, then other guys are definitely available. Afflalo really has little upside as well. I think we're seeing the way his stats will be, which isn't anything special.
Landon: C, This is one of the more obvious reaches in the draft. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw AFFLALO come off the board before the likes of PAUL GEORGE and NICOLAS BATUM. Afflalo may have a great contract but he isn't close to being as versatile as these other guys still left. No disrespect to Afflalo, but this might be considered one of the biggest reaches in the draft. If Nets like this guy though, there has to be a reason. We will see how this pick ends up for him.
37) Kings: Paul George, Ind
Ethan: B+, Don't get me wrong, I love Paul George. I think he's ultra-talented as well. But as an owner of him in a dynasty league, I also know he's simply in the wrong situation. Averaging 12 points per game is a result of being on that Pacers team. And in that case, we may not be seeing the dividends of this as much as some other picks. But that's the only tiny problem.
Landon: A, Paul George has so much potential. Being a Mavs fan, I remember when he dropped 30 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals on us. He is visibly improving his game and is taking great strides in being a multi-categorial producer. He also plays SG as well as SF, giving Kings more position flexibility in the future. Paul George can only improve from here on out.
38) Suns: Dirk Nowitzki, Dal
Ethan: B-, Dirk Nowitzki has consistently been a top fantasy option. But I can't help but worry that the dropoff he's managed to put off happens next year because we've seen the armor cracking. But if that was it, I wouldn't question this pick as much. The other issue is I wouldn't want to be stuck paying the 20m for him after grabbing Lee's contract as well.
Landon: A-, I'm a diehard Mavs fan and Nowitzki is my favorite player, but I also know that he isn't exactly at his prime. But I also know that he takes care of his body like none other. He did have an off year this year which certainly hindered his value, but the reason I gave this an A- was because he was chosen in Round 2. Had it been Round 1 my grade would have been in the B range. He may not play much defense but I am a firm believer that Dirk will bounce back from this year where he was clearly out of shape and come back to average 25 a game while grabbing 7,8 rebounds and shooting at 46,47 % from the field. This gives him enough value to get an A- out of me.
39) Grizzlies: Tyreke Evans, Sac
Ethan: B-, It's my belief that you can take risks with these early picks, but you don't want to take guys that are going to have too huge a hole to dig out of essentially. Tyreke's production dropped off significantly at the end of last season. He struggled with points and he was far from the 5-5 with boards and assists. I think the position flexibility, which is seen as a plus, is bad for him. He can't play PG or SG with Thomas or Thornton, but he did absolutely horrible at the 3 spot.
Landon: B+, Tyreke has regressed every year after his monster rookie year, but I still have faith that he can mature as a player and become a very valuable guy in fantasy due to his multi-position eligibility. He has some roadblocks in his way though. DMC has shown that he can handle the scoring load, isaiah thomas can dish out assists and Marcus Thorton can drain the 3s. Tyreke may have a hard time finding a place in the offense where he can contribute CONSISTENTLY but he is still a good pick at this point in the draft.
40) Clippers: Paul Millsap, Uta
Ethan: A, I like this pick a lot more than his round 1 pick. Milsap dropped for sure, and I let Rey know he was getting a steal at 40 in the draft. Last year's breakout had long been coming and now he should earn full rotation minutes. The points and rebounds are solid, and he had a whopping 2 steals as well.
Landon: A, this is a great pick in the 2nd round. Milsap is still a young guy and is great in a cats league. I am a bit worried about players behind him on the depth chart taking away his minutes but on a one year contract I know he will provide excellent value for at the very least one more year and who knows, he might flourish even more on a new team.
41) Rockets: Joakim Noah, Chi
Ethan: A-, This is one of the 2 guys I wished I had traded only a little bit up for. Noah averaged another double-double with 1.5 blocks a game as well. That's all you can ask for in a center. And I think his stock even goes up. Boozer is getting old and he's working out with Hakeem Olajuwon to improve his offensive game with Rose out next year.
Landon: A-, Rockets did himself a favor and grabbed a player at a position where players of Noah's caliber are few. Noah can put up a double-double every game, but doesn't do himself many favors with that free throw percentage (not to mention that shooting form of his.....). I am a little concerned about his injury problems but his hustle helps him garner stats and is a center anyone would want on their team.
42) Blazers: Kyle Lowry, Hou
Ethan: A, I know for a fact that Landon was crossing his fingers he could somehow pair Aldridge with Lowry. And he got it. For someone who didn't trade his picks, this is a solid pairing. Lowry obviously had the injury, but should be fine and the Rockets will likely let Dragic go. This really makes sense to me because he is the last solid PG left with multi-year contract, taking out Jrue and Nash. Only problem is the risk because otherwise, this guy is a top PG.
Landon: [SELF-SELECTION]
43) Jazz: Jrue Holiday, Phi
Ethan: A-, Matt realizes that there are very few serviceable PG left in the draft. I actually think Jrue disappointed owners last year because during the year, Iggy really passed the rock more and took that away. But he is still the pick to be made here simply because of the number left and his ability to shoot the 3, and get the steals. Plus I like his name.
Landon: A-, Jrue was supposed to be a breakout player this season but could be classified as a disappointment. With all the depth the Sixers had he was often inconsistent with this points and the assists were never really there. He is still a young guy though on a very good contract and is the best PG left on the board at this point in the draft. He still has room to grow so that never hurts.
44) Cavaliers: Roy Hibbert: Ind
Ethan: A, Hibbert has been trending recently. But his statistics have really shone through the whole year. He struggled to be dominant; surprising for a 7'2" man, but the boards and blocks are there. And the QO makes him retainable as well.
Landon: A, Hibbert has shown me this season that he can be more consistent and his 2 blocks per game make him a very attractive pick. If he can manage to find 10+ points and 10 rebounds per game in that talented pacers offense while keeping up his play on D he will be one of the more valuable players in the league.
45) Lakers: Marcin Gortat, Pho
Ethan: A-, And with that, I think the last true Center that is really in the top tier is gone. I noticed Lakers got some hate with the Gortat pick on the chats. The biggest problem is of course, the tenuous situation with Steve Nash. If Nash leaves, there isn't that feed that Gortat thrived on this year. But we still have to consider the value of the position. And because it's relative to what's happening, this is a good pick that can go either way.
Landon: A, Gortat was obviously in a goood position for his breakout year with Steve Nash feeding him the rock but I believe that he can still uphold the same stats next year if not improve on them. He is a very good rebounder and I think he can up that block average to 2 a game. The Suns are going to get younger at point guard and Gortat still has a bright future ahead of him.
46) Bucks: Danny Granger, Ind
Ethan: B+, In grading this pick, I took a look at the previous player the Bucks had selected. That pick was Monta Ellis, which I called out as being mostly a scoring player selected. To me Granger is kind of the same. He can get 5 boards a game, but they clash as well at 3 pointers, points, and percentages. This makes me worried what he does for center and point guard.
Landon: A-, I like Granger but his offense is a bit too one dimensional for me. His FG% isn't great either but he can still get 5,6 boards a game and has the ability to put up 40 points from time to time. Irish took another scorer with this pick and he now has a hold on the points cat with Granger and Monta leading the way.
47) Spurs: Zach Randolph, Mem
Ethan: A-, I was wondering when Randolph would come off the board here. On the Grizzlies, he's put up great stats in points and rebounds. The risk though has continued to be the age and the teammates. Grizzlies have Gasol and Speights. That of course is a problem in a whole and this is still a good value pick.
Landon: A-, Zach Randolph hasn't been himself this year due to a bad injury but I am a believer that he can average 20 10 or close to that a game and at this point in the draft that potential is fantastic. He is a bit on the older side though which made me think about giving an A but I still think this is a bargain in the 2nd round.
48) Bobcats: Eric Gordan, NO
Ethan: A-, when I was considering this pick, I remembered to how Gordon would put up the 20 points a night at a young age with the assists at the SG and the steals. Then I took a look at him at the end of the past season when he returned for a few games. Generally he had rough outings but also showed he is back. With that, I think it's a good pick in a shallow SG spot.
Landon: A, I love how Bobcats made a trade to get the guy he wanted here. Gordon was one of the top shooting guards still left on the board and the SG position isnt deep at all. Gordon had an injury riddled season but he still has all the ability in the world to get 20+ a night and will give bobcats a very solid player.
49) Raptors: Steve Nash, Pho
Ethan: A-, This was Raptors' 2nd autopick selection. Nash obviously would come out as the top rated player left on the board. The issue of course is whether or not this is in the new owner's interest. He doesn't seem to like it, but I don't see a huge fault with it. With Pau Gasol and Nash, the team will simply be in a win-now mode. And it's very possible with the right picks down the stretch.
Landon: B+, Nash isn't getting any younger and even on a one year contract he might not be worth it because nobody knows what team he will decide to go to yet. He won't be getting 35+ minutes a game but he isn't a terrible pick to pair with Pau Gasol.
50) Wolves: Chris Bosh, Mia
Ethan: A-, As we write this in the playoffs, its seems the Heat are feeling the loss of Bosh. While the true centers are gone, Bosh will constantly get near 16 points and 10 rebounds. The problem with him is the blocking, but with those things secured, he's very important for the Wolves.
Landon: A-, Bosh is one of the top big men still on the board and in my opinion he should have been picked much earlier. He can play both the PF and the C positions and gets his share of the points in that Miami Heat offense. He may be ugly, but "Bosh-spice" is a very capable player.
51) Pacers: Nicolas Batum, Por
Ethan: A-, This is a real good pick. Batum was a guy I had always kept in my mind coming into this league. He's another one of the stat stuffers I always rave about. With Wallace out, he's also nailed the rebounds while getting the other 1-1-1 cats. Perhaps not where I expected him to go, but can't deny it works.
Landon: A+, I give an A+ because of how far Batum dropped despite his ability. He is much like Paul George with his game but I think he is more developed. He is also playing on a team where the opportunities are there for the taking and he can become a formidable 1-2 punch with LaMarcus in 2013. He can also provide that rare 1-1-1 combo of 1 triple, 1 steal and 1 block.
52) 76ers: Tyson Chandler, NYK
Ethan: B-,After getting two 1st round picks, the Sixers decide to spend their 3rd pick on a center, though they have Dwight already. As seen on the block, the move is to get someone to trade for one. But I simply don't think it can be done if he's staunch on getting where he drafted. If he is stuck with Dwight and Chandler, he essentially has 2 guys who vie for Defensive Player of the Year and put up the same stats you need and at a high cost. I like Chandler, but don't think this is a smart draft pick.
Landon: B+, This is a bit questionable for the 76ers because of cap space and because he had already chosen Dwight in round 1, but I have no qualms about trying to have 2 good players at a shallow position talent-wise. He will have a hard time keeping up with this cap and injuries might get to Chandler like they had in the past. Chandler has done an okay job at keeping healthy these past 2 years though.
53) Hawks: Kemba Walker, Cha
Ethan: B, At this point in the draft, if you feel like you need to build young, I have no problem with it. The thing with Kemba is that he has shown he as the 4-4 potential and the scoring. What the problem is though simply revolves around how I think it's too early to jump ship and there are still vaulable players to be had.
Landon: B+, People were saying this was a big reach and I agree that it may be a reach, but if Hawks want to go young who's stop him? Kemba has the ability to become a very good player and plays PG AND SG which is rare. The problem with Kemba is that he plays on the Bobcats, without a doubt the worst team in the league. He is gonna have a hard time being successful in such a bad situation which is why I think Hawks could have chosen someone better here.
54) Magic: Gordan Hayward, Uta
Ethan: A-, I was not happy to hear Hayward's name posted because I really like him. He has such a great shooting touch and knows how to score. Plus once again, I must mention the 1-1-1 ability that is so hard to get. This is a good pick in my mind and not a reach because Magic wouldn't have gotten his guy in the 3rd.
Landon: A-, Hayward showed tremendous growth this year and even with that skinny frame he showed some toughness. He, like Batum, is capable of the 1-1-1 statistical combination and is playing in a good situation in Utah. He has good players surrounding him who will help him grow and I expect him to get better each year.
55) Nuggets: Andre Iguodala, Phi
Ethan: A, I know Iguodala has continued to fall. He once was able to put up 20-5-5 in the days he was the Sixers offense. Today they're built around more players such as Evan Turner and Thaddeus Young. They have been taking his minutes and stats but his statistics are still good enough to help contend and it really fills up the cats you need. Solid pick.
Landon: A, I was wondering when this beast would come off the board. Iggy may not be younger than some of these other guys but he out produced every one of them. He doesn't have a terrible contract and since he doesn't rely on just shooting anymore I think he can still be a great fantasy candidate for a few years. He plays on a team where the ball is in his hands and he can use his play making ability to put up a solid stat line game after game with the potential of putting up a triple double or two.
56) Heat: Kenneth Faried, Den
Ethan: B+, I heard some groans (figuratively) after Faried was selected. Everyone was hoping the other hadn't heard about "Manimal" but of course, he was to be picked. I love the upside of Faried. His motor is just so tough and he has a knack for getting the rebound. Unfortunately, there's no denying that Nuggets roster has too many guys. He has carved out a niche, but can it be enough? with McGee, Harrington, Koufos, etc. I'm wary.
Landon: A, I was sad that Faried was chosen because he became one of my favorite players this year. He brings so much energy and his per 48 min stats are just off the charts. Here's a stat line for those of y'all who though he was a reach. 27 points, 12-18 from the field, 17 rebounds, a block and two steals in 24 minutes of playing time....i'll give you some time to dwell on that
57) Thunder: Ryan Anderson, Orl
Ethan: A+, I am cautious of Anderson's year of improvement. But I really can't let that come in my way of evaluating this pick. Anderson's rare ability is to get the 3s and percentages at the PF spot while providing rebounds--a Kevin Love like ability. With that, dropping to the end of Round 2 is something I have to applaud and is a clear choice at this point.
Landon: A-, Ryan Anderson had the breakout season of all breakout seasons this year. His 3 point percentage was crazy and he shot them at almost 3 a game. He occasionally gets double doubles and would even hit 30 points from time to time. I am hesitant to give him a higher grade than a low A due to the fact that he was such a surprise to everyone this year and MAY be a fluke.
58) Mavericks: Wesley Matthews, Por
Ethan: A-, Matthews and Batum both shined after Wallace was moved. Both of them play similarily. Matthews has a higher uptick in steals and 3s and is a valuable player for providing very high numbers in those. Plus the contract is very attractive.
Landon: A-, Wesley Matthews is as solid of a pick as you can get late in the 2nd round. Not only does he play at a shallow position but he is also a multi-categorial producer. He is gonna get the lion share of the minutes at SG for portland and should be there for years to come.
59) Hornets: Ramon Sessions, LAL
Ethan: C+, This is a little tough love here. Of course PGs are very small in number at this point, but the thing is, I still see Teague available and I don't understand why Sessions is the pick here. He has a 1 year deal and does not get the numbers Teague does except a slight edge in assists that may be fixed. This grade is mainly for what he missed.
Landon: B+, This pick is a bit questionable because of Sesssion's contract but if he can produce like he did when Kyrie was out consistently on the Lakers then he will become a bargain at this pick. He as shown he can make the 3 and has always been a good passer. There are a couple other players that I'd still take over Sessions at this position but I respect the Hornets decision
60) Bulls: Tristan Thompson, Cle
Ethan: B+, Thompson is too early here in my mind. Of course the number 4 overall pick has enormous upside. But I think he's still seen as a developmental project to fantasy owners and to the team itself. The numbers he put up the past season are not enough to show anything. He couldn't reach double digits and over 7 or so rebounds. I still respect the pick for building around him for the future, but he's raw.
Landon: A-, Tristan is one of the more underrated rookies this year after playing alongside Mr. ROY Kyrie Irving. He is still raw on both sides of the ball but is one of the most talented players in his rookie class. He is very athletic and if he learns to play the game right he can put up some really good numbers. Kyrie and Tristan should develop into one of the better 1-2 duos for the future.
As usual, feel free to let us know where we went wrong. We hope to keep bringing you these!
I must again stress that I hope no one is offended by these grades. Especially in the 2nd round, things are crazy. I believe I speak for both Landon and I, we mean no offense and hope you DO prove us wrong then with your pick. Enjoy.
31) Pistons: Stephen Curry, GS
Ethan: B+. The first pick to start off the draft is definitely great. Curry was ranked as top 15 to start last season. The problem of course is injuries. And in my opinion, you can't trust him this high in the 2nd round when plenty more talent awaits. He may also lose time to Charles Jenkins and Klay Thompson if he can't avoid the injury bug.
Landon: A, Curry has always been an injury risk, but I still believe in him and I don't think he's gonna go "Brandon Roy" on all of us. He's the best pick an owner could make at this point in the draft and Pistons has a great combo at the guard position with Kobe and Curry. If Curry stays healthy he will be a fantasy beast.
32) Wizards: James Harden, OKC
Ethan: A+, Solid, solid pick right here. Harden is a favorite of early analysts all across the board for next season as he is only getting better. The part that makes him near elite is his ability to contribute all-around. McKitish dubbed him the close 2nd best SG behind Pierce and I think this is great value for someone who shouldve gone earlier.
Landon: A+, I am in love with Harden. He does EVERYTHING but block in fantasy. He shoots a high FG%, gets to the line and makes it at a mid-80% clip and he can shoot the triple. Assists and rebounds are always there for him as well. I was even considering selecting him over LaMarcus in the 1st round.
33) Celtics: Serge Ibaka, OKC
Ethan: A+, Celtics' selection will get the rare A+ from me 2nd time in a row. Ibaka is very valuable in a category league. His block numbers were crazy (4.7 in the last month) and that essentially wins you the category week in week out in a league of this depth. With such an important stat locked down, I think he's well worth the pick and shouldve done earlier just based on this asset.
Landon: A, this is a very, very solid pick. Ibaka doesn't score 20 a night nor does he grab 15 boards a night but he certainly makes up for that by blocking shots at an insane rate. This man can hold down the blocks category by himself and he is fully capable of averaging a double double each game. That being said it will be very hard for him to find his shots because of the Thunder's big 3 in Westbrook, Durant and Harden.
34) Bobcats: Al Jefferson, Uta
Ethan: A, Bobcats continues the great selection with Jefferson. Now that I'm observing the board to look at trends, it's clear Jefferson is an elite talent who dropped off here due to contract. But this late, he's well worth the pick. And with centers dwindling down, this guy has top-10 potential at the 30s. Nice pick as I was hoping he would be there for me.
Landon: A, Al Jefferson is a fantasy stud. He's at his prime right now and is better than he ever will be. Even with his one year contract Bobcats will be fully capable of resigning him. It doesn't hurt that he plays at a very shallow position. This is a great first pick by Bobcats.
35) Warriors: Al Horford, Atl
Ethan: [SELF-SELECTION]
Landon: B-, While I absolutely love Horford and see him as one of the more underrated players in the game, as the second round continued I saw less and less of a reason for Ethan to trade up for this pick. There were still many very good centers still on the board near his original pick (Roy Hibbert, Joakim Noah). That being said, Horford is still a very good pick, but I know for a fact that Ethan regretted moving up.
36) Nets: Arron Afflalo, Den
Ethan: D, I just don't see how this makes sense. In my draft analysis, I'm thinking relative to the teams, and I'm also consdiering this from all angles.This is just a flat out BAD pick. One GM (Suns I believe) voiced that he thought Afflalo would go in the 4th or 5th. While I think that was a stretch, it's still very clear that this was not the best choice. If he was going for contract, you have George, who has a QO as well. If you're going for talent, then other guys are definitely available. Afflalo really has little upside as well. I think we're seeing the way his stats will be, which isn't anything special.
Landon: C, This is one of the more obvious reaches in the draft. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw AFFLALO come off the board before the likes of PAUL GEORGE and NICOLAS BATUM. Afflalo may have a great contract but he isn't close to being as versatile as these other guys still left. No disrespect to Afflalo, but this might be considered one of the biggest reaches in the draft. If Nets like this guy though, there has to be a reason. We will see how this pick ends up for him.
37) Kings: Paul George, Ind
Ethan: B+, Don't get me wrong, I love Paul George. I think he's ultra-talented as well. But as an owner of him in a dynasty league, I also know he's simply in the wrong situation. Averaging 12 points per game is a result of being on that Pacers team. And in that case, we may not be seeing the dividends of this as much as some other picks. But that's the only tiny problem.
Landon: A, Paul George has so much potential. Being a Mavs fan, I remember when he dropped 30 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals on us. He is visibly improving his game and is taking great strides in being a multi-categorial producer. He also plays SG as well as SF, giving Kings more position flexibility in the future. Paul George can only improve from here on out.
38) Suns: Dirk Nowitzki, Dal
Ethan: B-, Dirk Nowitzki has consistently been a top fantasy option. But I can't help but worry that the dropoff he's managed to put off happens next year because we've seen the armor cracking. But if that was it, I wouldn't question this pick as much. The other issue is I wouldn't want to be stuck paying the 20m for him after grabbing Lee's contract as well.
Landon: A-, I'm a diehard Mavs fan and Nowitzki is my favorite player, but I also know that he isn't exactly at his prime. But I also know that he takes care of his body like none other. He did have an off year this year which certainly hindered his value, but the reason I gave this an A- was because he was chosen in Round 2. Had it been Round 1 my grade would have been in the B range. He may not play much defense but I am a firm believer that Dirk will bounce back from this year where he was clearly out of shape and come back to average 25 a game while grabbing 7,8 rebounds and shooting at 46,47 % from the field. This gives him enough value to get an A- out of me.
39) Grizzlies: Tyreke Evans, Sac
Ethan: B-, It's my belief that you can take risks with these early picks, but you don't want to take guys that are going to have too huge a hole to dig out of essentially. Tyreke's production dropped off significantly at the end of last season. He struggled with points and he was far from the 5-5 with boards and assists. I think the position flexibility, which is seen as a plus, is bad for him. He can't play PG or SG with Thomas or Thornton, but he did absolutely horrible at the 3 spot.
Landon: B+, Tyreke has regressed every year after his monster rookie year, but I still have faith that he can mature as a player and become a very valuable guy in fantasy due to his multi-position eligibility. He has some roadblocks in his way though. DMC has shown that he can handle the scoring load, isaiah thomas can dish out assists and Marcus Thorton can drain the 3s. Tyreke may have a hard time finding a place in the offense where he can contribute CONSISTENTLY but he is still a good pick at this point in the draft.
40) Clippers: Paul Millsap, Uta
Ethan: A, I like this pick a lot more than his round 1 pick. Milsap dropped for sure, and I let Rey know he was getting a steal at 40 in the draft. Last year's breakout had long been coming and now he should earn full rotation minutes. The points and rebounds are solid, and he had a whopping 2 steals as well.
Landon: A, this is a great pick in the 2nd round. Milsap is still a young guy and is great in a cats league. I am a bit worried about players behind him on the depth chart taking away his minutes but on a one year contract I know he will provide excellent value for at the very least one more year and who knows, he might flourish even more on a new team.
41) Rockets: Joakim Noah, Chi
Ethan: A-, This is one of the 2 guys I wished I had traded only a little bit up for. Noah averaged another double-double with 1.5 blocks a game as well. That's all you can ask for in a center. And I think his stock even goes up. Boozer is getting old and he's working out with Hakeem Olajuwon to improve his offensive game with Rose out next year.
Landon: A-, Rockets did himself a favor and grabbed a player at a position where players of Noah's caliber are few. Noah can put up a double-double every game, but doesn't do himself many favors with that free throw percentage (not to mention that shooting form of his.....). I am a little concerned about his injury problems but his hustle helps him garner stats and is a center anyone would want on their team.
42) Blazers: Kyle Lowry, Hou
Ethan: A, I know for a fact that Landon was crossing his fingers he could somehow pair Aldridge with Lowry. And he got it. For someone who didn't trade his picks, this is a solid pairing. Lowry obviously had the injury, but should be fine and the Rockets will likely let Dragic go. This really makes sense to me because he is the last solid PG left with multi-year contract, taking out Jrue and Nash. Only problem is the risk because otherwise, this guy is a top PG.
Landon: [SELF-SELECTION]
43) Jazz: Jrue Holiday, Phi
Ethan: A-, Matt realizes that there are very few serviceable PG left in the draft. I actually think Jrue disappointed owners last year because during the year, Iggy really passed the rock more and took that away. But he is still the pick to be made here simply because of the number left and his ability to shoot the 3, and get the steals. Plus I like his name.
Landon: A-, Jrue was supposed to be a breakout player this season but could be classified as a disappointment. With all the depth the Sixers had he was often inconsistent with this points and the assists were never really there. He is still a young guy though on a very good contract and is the best PG left on the board at this point in the draft. He still has room to grow so that never hurts.
44) Cavaliers: Roy Hibbert: Ind
Ethan: A, Hibbert has been trending recently. But his statistics have really shone through the whole year. He struggled to be dominant; surprising for a 7'2" man, but the boards and blocks are there. And the QO makes him retainable as well.
Landon: A, Hibbert has shown me this season that he can be more consistent and his 2 blocks per game make him a very attractive pick. If he can manage to find 10+ points and 10 rebounds per game in that talented pacers offense while keeping up his play on D he will be one of the more valuable players in the league.
45) Lakers: Marcin Gortat, Pho
Ethan: A-, And with that, I think the last true Center that is really in the top tier is gone. I noticed Lakers got some hate with the Gortat pick on the chats. The biggest problem is of course, the tenuous situation with Steve Nash. If Nash leaves, there isn't that feed that Gortat thrived on this year. But we still have to consider the value of the position. And because it's relative to what's happening, this is a good pick that can go either way.
Landon: A, Gortat was obviously in a goood position for his breakout year with Steve Nash feeding him the rock but I believe that he can still uphold the same stats next year if not improve on them. He is a very good rebounder and I think he can up that block average to 2 a game. The Suns are going to get younger at point guard and Gortat still has a bright future ahead of him.
46) Bucks: Danny Granger, Ind
Ethan: B+, In grading this pick, I took a look at the previous player the Bucks had selected. That pick was Monta Ellis, which I called out as being mostly a scoring player selected. To me Granger is kind of the same. He can get 5 boards a game, but they clash as well at 3 pointers, points, and percentages. This makes me worried what he does for center and point guard.
Landon: A-, I like Granger but his offense is a bit too one dimensional for me. His FG% isn't great either but he can still get 5,6 boards a game and has the ability to put up 40 points from time to time. Irish took another scorer with this pick and he now has a hold on the points cat with Granger and Monta leading the way.
47) Spurs: Zach Randolph, Mem
Ethan: A-, I was wondering when Randolph would come off the board here. On the Grizzlies, he's put up great stats in points and rebounds. The risk though has continued to be the age and the teammates. Grizzlies have Gasol and Speights. That of course is a problem in a whole and this is still a good value pick.
Landon: A-, Zach Randolph hasn't been himself this year due to a bad injury but I am a believer that he can average 20 10 or close to that a game and at this point in the draft that potential is fantastic. He is a bit on the older side though which made me think about giving an A but I still think this is a bargain in the 2nd round.
48) Bobcats: Eric Gordan, NO
Ethan: A-, when I was considering this pick, I remembered to how Gordon would put up the 20 points a night at a young age with the assists at the SG and the steals. Then I took a look at him at the end of the past season when he returned for a few games. Generally he had rough outings but also showed he is back. With that, I think it's a good pick in a shallow SG spot.
Landon: A, I love how Bobcats made a trade to get the guy he wanted here. Gordon was one of the top shooting guards still left on the board and the SG position isnt deep at all. Gordon had an injury riddled season but he still has all the ability in the world to get 20+ a night and will give bobcats a very solid player.
49) Raptors: Steve Nash, Pho
Ethan: A-, This was Raptors' 2nd autopick selection. Nash obviously would come out as the top rated player left on the board. The issue of course is whether or not this is in the new owner's interest. He doesn't seem to like it, but I don't see a huge fault with it. With Pau Gasol and Nash, the team will simply be in a win-now mode. And it's very possible with the right picks down the stretch.
Landon: B+, Nash isn't getting any younger and even on a one year contract he might not be worth it because nobody knows what team he will decide to go to yet. He won't be getting 35+ minutes a game but he isn't a terrible pick to pair with Pau Gasol.
50) Wolves: Chris Bosh, Mia
Ethan: A-, As we write this in the playoffs, its seems the Heat are feeling the loss of Bosh. While the true centers are gone, Bosh will constantly get near 16 points and 10 rebounds. The problem with him is the blocking, but with those things secured, he's very important for the Wolves.
Landon: A-, Bosh is one of the top big men still on the board and in my opinion he should have been picked much earlier. He can play both the PF and the C positions and gets his share of the points in that Miami Heat offense. He may be ugly, but "Bosh-spice" is a very capable player.
51) Pacers: Nicolas Batum, Por
Ethan: A-, This is a real good pick. Batum was a guy I had always kept in my mind coming into this league. He's another one of the stat stuffers I always rave about. With Wallace out, he's also nailed the rebounds while getting the other 1-1-1 cats. Perhaps not where I expected him to go, but can't deny it works.
Landon: A+, I give an A+ because of how far Batum dropped despite his ability. He is much like Paul George with his game but I think he is more developed. He is also playing on a team where the opportunities are there for the taking and he can become a formidable 1-2 punch with LaMarcus in 2013. He can also provide that rare 1-1-1 combo of 1 triple, 1 steal and 1 block.
52) 76ers: Tyson Chandler, NYK
Ethan: B-,After getting two 1st round picks, the Sixers decide to spend their 3rd pick on a center, though they have Dwight already. As seen on the block, the move is to get someone to trade for one. But I simply don't think it can be done if he's staunch on getting where he drafted. If he is stuck with Dwight and Chandler, he essentially has 2 guys who vie for Defensive Player of the Year and put up the same stats you need and at a high cost. I like Chandler, but don't think this is a smart draft pick.
Landon: B+, This is a bit questionable for the 76ers because of cap space and because he had already chosen Dwight in round 1, but I have no qualms about trying to have 2 good players at a shallow position talent-wise. He will have a hard time keeping up with this cap and injuries might get to Chandler like they had in the past. Chandler has done an okay job at keeping healthy these past 2 years though.
53) Hawks: Kemba Walker, Cha
Ethan: B, At this point in the draft, if you feel like you need to build young, I have no problem with it. The thing with Kemba is that he has shown he as the 4-4 potential and the scoring. What the problem is though simply revolves around how I think it's too early to jump ship and there are still vaulable players to be had.
Landon: B+, People were saying this was a big reach and I agree that it may be a reach, but if Hawks want to go young who's stop him? Kemba has the ability to become a very good player and plays PG AND SG which is rare. The problem with Kemba is that he plays on the Bobcats, without a doubt the worst team in the league. He is gonna have a hard time being successful in such a bad situation which is why I think Hawks could have chosen someone better here.
54) Magic: Gordan Hayward, Uta
Ethan: A-, I was not happy to hear Hayward's name posted because I really like him. He has such a great shooting touch and knows how to score. Plus once again, I must mention the 1-1-1 ability that is so hard to get. This is a good pick in my mind and not a reach because Magic wouldn't have gotten his guy in the 3rd.
Landon: A-, Hayward showed tremendous growth this year and even with that skinny frame he showed some toughness. He, like Batum, is capable of the 1-1-1 statistical combination and is playing in a good situation in Utah. He has good players surrounding him who will help him grow and I expect him to get better each year.
55) Nuggets: Andre Iguodala, Phi
Ethan: A, I know Iguodala has continued to fall. He once was able to put up 20-5-5 in the days he was the Sixers offense. Today they're built around more players such as Evan Turner and Thaddeus Young. They have been taking his minutes and stats but his statistics are still good enough to help contend and it really fills up the cats you need. Solid pick.
Landon: A, I was wondering when this beast would come off the board. Iggy may not be younger than some of these other guys but he out produced every one of them. He doesn't have a terrible contract and since he doesn't rely on just shooting anymore I think he can still be a great fantasy candidate for a few years. He plays on a team where the ball is in his hands and he can use his play making ability to put up a solid stat line game after game with the potential of putting up a triple double or two.
56) Heat: Kenneth Faried, Den
Ethan: B+, I heard some groans (figuratively) after Faried was selected. Everyone was hoping the other hadn't heard about "Manimal" but of course, he was to be picked. I love the upside of Faried. His motor is just so tough and he has a knack for getting the rebound. Unfortunately, there's no denying that Nuggets roster has too many guys. He has carved out a niche, but can it be enough? with McGee, Harrington, Koufos, etc. I'm wary.
Landon: A, I was sad that Faried was chosen because he became one of my favorite players this year. He brings so much energy and his per 48 min stats are just off the charts. Here's a stat line for those of y'all who though he was a reach. 27 points, 12-18 from the field, 17 rebounds, a block and two steals in 24 minutes of playing time....i'll give you some time to dwell on that
57) Thunder: Ryan Anderson, Orl
Ethan: A+, I am cautious of Anderson's year of improvement. But I really can't let that come in my way of evaluating this pick. Anderson's rare ability is to get the 3s and percentages at the PF spot while providing rebounds--a Kevin Love like ability. With that, dropping to the end of Round 2 is something I have to applaud and is a clear choice at this point.
Landon: A-, Ryan Anderson had the breakout season of all breakout seasons this year. His 3 point percentage was crazy and he shot them at almost 3 a game. He occasionally gets double doubles and would even hit 30 points from time to time. I am hesitant to give him a higher grade than a low A due to the fact that he was such a surprise to everyone this year and MAY be a fluke.
58) Mavericks: Wesley Matthews, Por
Ethan: A-, Matthews and Batum both shined after Wallace was moved. Both of them play similarily. Matthews has a higher uptick in steals and 3s and is a valuable player for providing very high numbers in those. Plus the contract is very attractive.
Landon: A-, Wesley Matthews is as solid of a pick as you can get late in the 2nd round. Not only does he play at a shallow position but he is also a multi-categorial producer. He is gonna get the lion share of the minutes at SG for portland and should be there for years to come.
59) Hornets: Ramon Sessions, LAL
Ethan: C+, This is a little tough love here. Of course PGs are very small in number at this point, but the thing is, I still see Teague available and I don't understand why Sessions is the pick here. He has a 1 year deal and does not get the numbers Teague does except a slight edge in assists that may be fixed. This grade is mainly for what he missed.
Landon: B+, This pick is a bit questionable because of Sesssion's contract but if he can produce like he did when Kyrie was out consistently on the Lakers then he will become a bargain at this pick. He as shown he can make the 3 and has always been a good passer. There are a couple other players that I'd still take over Sessions at this position but I respect the Hornets decision
60) Bulls: Tristan Thompson, Cle
Ethan: B+, Thompson is too early here in my mind. Of course the number 4 overall pick has enormous upside. But I think he's still seen as a developmental project to fantasy owners and to the team itself. The numbers he put up the past season are not enough to show anything. He couldn't reach double digits and over 7 or so rebounds. I still respect the pick for building around him for the future, but he's raw.
Landon: A-, Tristan is one of the more underrated rookies this year after playing alongside Mr. ROY Kyrie Irving. He is still raw on both sides of the ball but is one of the most talented players in his rookie class. He is very athletic and if he learns to play the game right he can put up some really good numbers. Kyrie and Tristan should develop into one of the better 1-2 duos for the future.
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