Luka Garza is the greatest men’s basketball player in Iowa Hawkeye history. Garza is the Hawkeyes’ all-Time leading scorer, finishing his career with an astounding 2,306 points. Last season he led the Hawkeyes to a 22-9 record, a 2 seed in the NCAA tournament, Iowa’s highest seed since 1987, and he won the prestigious John R. Wooden Award, given to the best college basketball player in the nation. These are just some of the many accomplishments on Garza’s resume, but how does this Hawkeye legend project at the next level?

Pros:

Luka Garza does many things well on the court. He was 2^nd in the nation in scoring this past season, averaging 24.6 points per game. He is a highly skilled post player, has soft touch off the glass, finishing ability with both hands, and is able to create the space he needs to get his shots off with a variety of post moves and step backs jumpers. Garza can also get to the line effectively, as he ranked 5^th in the nation in total free throws attempted last season and shot 70% from the free throw line on 6.4 attempts a game. His silky smooth jumper gives him stretch big potential in the NBA; he shot 44% from 3 for the Hawkeyes on 100 total 3PA last year.

Garza is also a very good rebounder, pulling down 8.7 boards a game for the Hawkeyes last season, with 3 of those rebounds coming on the offensive end. His large frame (6’11”, 285 lbs.) and strength should help him be at least a decent rebounder in the NBA. He is an adequate playmaker for his size. Even though he only averaged 1.7 assists per game last season, he has shown that he has a high basketball IQ and knows how to find the open man when faced with a double team. Lastly, Garza is a capable shot blocker, averaging 1.6 blocks per game last season. NBA teams will also love how respected Garza is. Former and current coaches alike rave about his insane work ethic and coachability, and his teammates will be the first to speak on his leadership and humility.

Cons

Luka Garza is not a high-level athlete. He lacks lateral mobility and high IQ guards will take advantage of him in the pick-and-roll. His perimeter defense is extremely sub-par, and he does not do well against big men with a strong face-up game. His size & strength will not be enough to stop the likes of elite big men like Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic, so his technique must improve. He has also had trouble scoring in the paint against big men who are larger, stronger, and have length on him. Lastly, his ball-handling is only average at best, and has much room for improvement.

Projection:

Luka Garza is a multi-talented big who can score from all 3 levels on the floor and rebound effectively. His ability to spread the floor at his size is a very desirable trait in today’s NBA. He will need to improve his mobility substantially if he is to ever to play big minutes, and his overall defensive ability is only average at best. Teams with an already sound defense in need of bench shooting and/or a stretch big should consider drafting Garza. If he is drafted, look for his name to be called in the mid-to-late 2^nd round.

Potential Fits:

Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz.

The post Luka Garza 2021 NBA Draft Profile appeared first on KRUI Radio.

As the 2021 season begins and a few NBA games have been played, it’s time to predict who will take home the NBA Season Awards! These awards include Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, 6th Man of the Year, and Most Improved Player of the Year.

Most Improved Player of the Year

Christian Wood, PF/C, Houston Rockets

Christian Wood is on his 6th NBA team in 5 years, but his days as a journeyman may be coming to a close in Houston. He signed a 3 year / $41 million contract with the Rockets this offseason after his breakout performance last season with the Detroit Pistons. A high-level rebounder who can score from all 3 levels, he is poised to be a strong running-mate with offensive superstar James Harden.

Honorable Mentions: DeAndre Ayton, Jaylen Brown, Michael Porter Jr.

6th Man of the Year

Lou Williams, G, Los Angeles Clippers

This prediction feels a bit lazy, but the 15-year veteran has proven to be one of the greatest 6th men of all time. In addition to winning the award 3 times already, he was a finalist for this award last year. The other finalists, Dennis Schröder and Montrezl Harrel, are both starters for the Los Angeles Lakers, whereas Williams has maintained his 6th man status for the Clips. There is no reason why Lou Williams can’t win 6MOTY for a 4th time.

Honorable Mentions: Danilo Gallinari, Jordan Clarkson, Goran Dragic

Rookie of the Year

James Wiseman, C, Golden State Warriors

#2 overall pick James Wiseman could not be in a better situation with the Warriors. Superstar Steph Curry will be the primary focus of the opponent’s defense, and Steve Kerr’s offensive system will give the former Memphis Tiger the space he needs to dominate inside. Still only 19, Wiseman should be a franchise building block as the Warriors look to return to contention next season when Klay Thompson returns from injury.

Honorable Mentions: Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, Obi Toppin

Defensive Player of the Year

Ben Simmons, G, Philadelphia 76ers

Ben Simmons is one of the most divisive players in the NBA. His unusual size and skillset for an NBA point guard are the cause of endless debate, but one thing that cannot be disputed is his ability to defend. He is one of the most versatile defenders the league has ever seen, being able to defend the post with his 6’10 and 240 lb. frame, but also having the length (He has a 7′ wingspan) and the agility to keep up with guards on the perimeter. The 76ers star led the league in steals last season, and with the Sixers hiring the defensive-minded Doc Rivers as their new head coach, look out for Ben Simmons to be a defensive force this season.

Honorable Mentions: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Marcus Smart, Anthony Davis

Most Valuable Player

Luka Dončić, G, Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks have done it again, landing another European NBA star with the 21-year old Luka Doncic. After he averaged 29-9-9 for Dallas last season, all eyes are on Doncic to take the next step in his progression. He has it in him to average a 30 point triple double, if he can shoot at an efficient level and lead the revamped Mavericks to a top 3 seed in the West, it would be well within reason for “Wonder Boy” to bring the MVP trophy back to Dallas.

Honorable Mentions: Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, James Harden

The post 2021 Way-Too-Early NBA Awards Predictions appeared first on KRUI Radio.

#1- The Los Angeles Lakers

Notable players in: G Dennis Schröder, F/C Montrezl Harrell, C Marc Gasol, G/F Wesley Matthews.

Notable players out: G/F Danny Green, C Dwight Howard, C JaVale McGee, G Rajon Rondo.

The reigning-champion Lakers somehow managed to get even better. They addressed their weaknesses with this free agency group, bring in capable outside shooting with Schroder, Gasol, and Matthews, reliable defenders in Harrel, Gasol, and Matthews, and secondary scoring with Schroder. All signs point to the return of superstar big man Anthony Davis as well. The Lakers are going all-in for another championship this season, and if this group of free agents can play well around LeBron, there is no reason why they can’t.

Loser #1- The Milwaukee Bucks

Notable players in: G Jrue Holiday, F Torrey Craig, G D.J. Augustin, G Bryn Forbes.

Notable players out: C Robin Lopez, G Eric Bledsoe, G George Hill, F Ersan Ilyasova, F Wesley Matthews, F Marvin Williams, G Kyle Korver.

The Bucks are getting desperate. After many believed them to be legitimate championship contenders, a disappointing 2nd round playoff loss to the Heat last season has the team worried. Franchise superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo could walk if they underperform in the postseason again. They had to make a move, and boy did they, trading all of 5 1st round picks. These were George Hill and Eric Bledsoe for Jrue Holiday, a player who is about the same level as Eric Bledsoe (the team’s original starting point guard). They also failed in acquiring Antetokounmpo’s preferred target in G/F Bogdan Bogdanovic, which would not have been difficult to do if they had not tampered. Overall, the Bucks spent a fortune to improve their roster by a negligible amount and if Antetokounmpo leaves this offseason, the Bucks may be in a bad place for a long time.

Winner #2- The Philadelphia 76ers

Notable Players in: G/F Danny Green, G Seth Curry, G Tyrese Maxey, C Dwight Howard.

Notable Players out: F/C Al Horford, G Zhaire Smith, G/F Josh Richardson

The Sixers are showing signs of life again. Newly hired Team President Daryl Morey wasted no time fixing the plethora of issues that plagued this roster, starting with sending the underperforming 109 million-dollar-man Al Horford-along with pick #34 and a future 1st-to the Thunder for Danny Green and Terrance Ferguson. His acquisition of C Dwight Howard came as a bit of a shock, but he will serve as a solid backup behind Joel Embiid. Combine that with the multitude of talented guards Morey acquired in Seth Curry, Tyrese Maxey, and Isaiah Joe, and the Sixers are looking like the contender they should be.

Loser #2- The Boston Celtics

Notable players in: F/C Tristan Thompson, G/F Aaron Nesmith, G Payton Pritchard, G Jeff Teague.

Notable players out: F Gordon Hayward, G Brad Wanamaker.

Rarely ever does a team that made the Eastern Conference Finals the year before have 3 First Round picks in the subsequent draft, but this year’s Boston Celtics did. Unfortunately for them, they did not use them as they should have. The Celtics have one of the best duos in the league with star forwards Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and an elite scorer in Kemba Walker. They are competing for a championship NOW. The Celtics should have packaged those aforementioned draft picks, along with Hayward (he was traded to Charlotte earlier this offseason), for a high-level player who can contribute to a championship run. Or, even if you must use those picks, at least address the gaping hole at center that allowed Joel Embiid and Bam Adebayo to have their way against the Celtics in the playoffs. Ainge did neither, and instead drafted 2 scoring guards, which the team has plenty of, and traded the 3rd pick for a future pick. Ainge’s refusal to part with his treasure chest of assets has led to the stagnation of the Celtics thus far this offseason, and unless the team’s needs are addressed, may lead to disappointment this upcoming season.

Winner #3- The Oklahoma City Thunder

Notable players in: F/C Al Horford, F Trevor Ariza, G George Hill, F/C Aleksej Pokusevski.

Notable players out: G Chris Paul, C Steven Adams, F Terrance Ferguson.

The Thunder appear to be entering a 76ers-Process-style rebuild with their offseason moves so far. They have traded every asset they have (minus young star G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) for future picks, amassing an astonishing 14 1st round draft picks from the 2021 NBA Draft to the 2024 NBA Draft. The Thunder will not be a very good team next year, but that’s okay, as they still own their 2021 1st round pick.

Loser #3- The Detroit Pistons

Notable Players in: G Wayne Ellington, F/C Jerami Grant, F Josh Jackson, C Mason Plumlee, F Saddiq Bey, G Delon Wright, G Killian Hayes, F/C Isaiah Stewart.

Notable Players out: C Tony Bradley, F Tony Snell, G Bruce Brown, F/C Christian Wood.

The Pistons were one of the most active teams in free agency, but many of their moves were questionable. For starters, they let forward Christian Wood walk in free agency even after his breakout season. Then, Detroit created a massive logjam in the front court. In addition to having forwards Blake Griffin and Sekou Doumbouya, the team signed reserve center Mason Plumlee to a questionable 3 yr/25 million dollar deal, as well as center Jahlil Okafor to a 2-year deal. They also signed combo forward Josh Jackson to a 2-year deal and power forward Jerami Grant to a 4 yr/60 million dollar deal. In the draft, The Pistons added two more forwards in Saddiq Bey and Isaiah Stewart. They still have former MVP Derrick Rose and one nabbed of the best prospects in the draft with combo guard Killian Hayes, but overall this offseason the Pistons have not built a team for the future as they should have.

The post 2020 NBA Free Agency Winners and Losers appeared first on KRUI Radio.

All player stats and measurables are from Tankathon.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Pick- LaMelo Ball, , Point Guard, Australia

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’7″, 190 lbs., 19 yrs.

The Timberwolves have been actively shopping this pick and it is becoming increasingly likely that a trade happens. But, if the ‘Wolves stand pat, LaMelo Ball makes the most sense here. It is tough to pass up the scoring ability of Anthony Edwards, but LaMelo Ball’s natural playmaking ability better fits the team’s established stars in D’Angelo Russell and Karl Anthony-Towns.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 19.6 pts, 8.7 reb, 7.9 ast, 0.1 blk, 1.2 stl.

2. Golden State Warriors

The Pick- James Wiseman, Center, Memphis

Ht./Wt./Age- 7’1″, 240 lbs., 19 yrs.

Despite winning only 15 games last season, the Warriors’ dynasty is far from over. As they return 2-time MVP Steph Curry and all-time great shooter Klay Thompson from injury, the Warriors are looking like a real contender again. They stand to fix a problem that has plagued them for years with James Wiseman. A dominant interior force, he will fit very well in Golden State’s system as his 7’6″ wingspan makes him an elite shot blocking, rim running big man that the Warriors have been missing for years. He only played 3 games at Memphis due to an eligibility issue, but when he played he was the best player on the court.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 30.8 pts, 16.7 reb, 0.5 ast, 4.7 blk, 0.5 stl.

3. Charlotte Hornets

The Pick- Anthony Edwards, Shooting Guard, Georgia

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 225 lbs., 19 yrs.

The Charlotte Hornets are in a bad place. Their roster is in need of a serious overhaul, and Anthony Edwards is the piece that they need to begin their rebuild. An all-around offensive star, Edwards will thrive being the undoubted #1 scoring option in Charlotte. He can shoot the 3-ball, get to the rim, and finish through contact. His NFL-linebacker frame makes him a formidable defender. His playmaking ability is sub-par and he needs to improve his efficiency in order to become a true “star” in the NBA.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 20.8 pts., 5.7 reb., 3.1 ast., 0.6 blk., 1.5 stl.

4. Chicago Bulls

The Pick- Deni Avdija, Forward, Israel

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’9″. 215 lbs., 19 yrs.

The Bulls are on the verge of being a playoff team. They have an elite scorer in Zach Lavine, a rising star in Coby White, and a solid young front court tandem in Lauri Markkanen and Wendell Carter Junior. Deni Avdija is the type of “glue-guy” that the Bulls could use. While he may never be a 25 point-per-game scorer and he may not be a great shooter, he makes up for it with his ability to do it all. Avdija can pass, handle the ball, rebound, defend both the perimeter and the rim, and his basketball IQ is extraordinary. He could very well be the final piece that the Bulls have been looking for.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 15.0 pts., 7.7 reb., 3.3 ast., 1.1 blk., 1.1 stl.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Pick- Obi Toppin, Power Forward, Dayton

Ht./Wt./Age-6’9″, 220 lbs., 22 yrs.

Shockingly enough, the Cavaliers do not take a point guard here and instead take the high-flying National Player of the Year forward from Dayton, Obi Toppin. Toppin has the potential to be a Blake Griffin-level player in this league, but there are questions still. His competition in the weaker Athletic 10 Conference raises concern if he is ready for the rigors of the NBA, and he is a shaky perimeter defender. Overall, Toppin is a very good all-around prospect and will make an immediate impact for the Cavs.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 22.8 pts., 8.6 reb., 2.5 ast., 1.4 blk., 1.1 stl.

6. Atlanta Hawks

The Pick- Onyeka Okungwu, Center, USC

Ht./Wt./Age-6’9″, 245 lbs., 19 yrs.

The Hawks have an elite young offensive core with sharpshooting point guard Trae Young and rising stars DeAndre Hunter & Cam Reddish. However, this team will never succeed if they do not improve on their league-worst 119.7 points allowed per game. Their abysmal 53.6 points in the paint allowed also ranked dead-last. Onyeka Okungwu fixes both of those problems. At about 6’9″, he can not only defend the perimeter well, but he is also a very good rim protector. Offensively, he makes an effective rim runner and not much else, but if utilized properly he could become a valuable player in Atlanta for a long time.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 19.0 pts., 10.2 red., 1.3 ast., 3.2 blk., 1.4 stl.

7. Detroit Pistons

The Pick- Killian Hayes, Point Guard, France

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 187 lbs., 19 yrs.

Detroit is in need of a savior. They lack a foundational piece to rebuild around, and Killian Hayes can be that player. He is a dynamic do-it-all guard, he has the basketball IQ of a veteran and can also score in bunches because of his crafty isolation game. His frame allows him to be a good perimeter defender, but he is not a true lockdown defender yet. If Detroit can put the right system around Hayes, he could be the player that they have been desperately searching for.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 16.1 pts., 4.1 reb., 7.8 ast., 0.4 blk., 2.1 stl.

8. New York Knicks

The Pick- Isaac Okoro, Small Forward, Auburn

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’6″, 225 lbs., 19 yrs.

The New York Knicks are the league’s most consistent dumpster fire and have been for the better part of a decade. Their roster needs everything, and Isaac Okoro does it all. He’s advertised as a forward who can score, rebound, make plays, defend. Although his jump-shot needs work the potential is still there. He may not be the prospect with the highest ceiling, he makes up for that by being one of the safest picks in the draft, and guaranteed talent of any kind is something that the Knicks need.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 14.7 pts., 5.1 reb., 2.3., 1.0 blk., 1.1 stl.

9. Washington Wizards

The Pick- Devin Vassell, Forward, Florida State

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’7″, 194 lbs., 20 yrs.

The Washington Wizards view themselves as a competitive team with the return of the John Wall-Bradley Beal backcourt duo, and they are going to draft for fit over value. Because of this, they take a slight reach here in Devin Vassell. Vassell projects as a 3&D Forward initially and has a budding offensive game that could allow him to be more than a role player. His sharpshooting and lockdown defense fill the needs that the Wizards have in their quest to return to relevance.

Per 36 Minutes Stats– 15.9 pts., 6.3 reb., 2.0 ast., 1.2 blk., 1.8 stl.

10. Phoenix Suns

The Pick- Tyrese Haliburton, Point Guard, Iowa State

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 175 lbs., 20 yrs.

Phoenix has something special brewing. After Devin Booker led the Suns on an 8-0 run in the Orlando bubble, this team showed that they have the talent to compete with the best. Their biggest need is someone to star alongside Devin Booker in the backcourt and Tyrese Haliburton has the skills to do so. His exceptional basketball IQ and high-level passing ability make him a natural fit to run the point, but he can also thrive off the ball as he shot 42% from 3 last season. Haliburton also is a talented perimeter defender and can contribute right away for the Suns. Phoenix is on the cusp of something special, Tyrese Haliburton may just be the final piece they need.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 14.9 pts., 5.8 reb., 6.3 ast., 0.7 blk., 2.4 stl.

11. San Antonio Spurs

The Pick- Patrick Williams, Forward, Florida State

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’8″, 225 lbs., 19 yrs.

After the Spurs’ unbelievable 23 year playoff streak ended this season, it looks like the Spurs are entering a rebuild. Patrick Williams, the versatile forward, is the perfect prospect to build around. Willing to be the 6th man at FSU despite being a 5 star recruit, he fits San Antonio’s “team first” culture better than any prospect here. He has the raw talent to be a true star in the league, but he may take some time to fully develop.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 14.8 pts., 6.4 reb., 1.6 ast., 1.7 blk., 1.6 stl.

12. Sacramento Kings

The Pick- Aaron Nesmith, Small Forward, Vanderbilt

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’6″, 213 lbs., 21 yrs.

The Kings have a long offseason ahead of them. De’Aaron Fox is an exciting young player when healthy, and former 2nd overall pick Marvin Bagley Jr. has the potential to be a high-level big man, but has been hurt a lot and inconsistent when he does play. Sharpshooter Buddy Hield has expressed his frustrations with his role on the team and wants out, and the Kings could replace him with Aaron Nesmith. Possessing an absolute torch of a jumper, he can shoot the lights out of the gym from anywhere on the court. He is an average perimeter defender but has upside, and his playmaking ability, both passing and off the dribble, could use some work. Overall he could prove to be an effective plug-and-play option for the Kings as they try to end their 14 year playoff drought.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 23.2 pts., 4.9 reb., 0.9 ast., 0.9 blk., 1.4 stl.

13. New Orleans Pelicans

The Pick- Kira Lewis Jr., Point Guard, Alabama

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’3″, 180 lbs., 19 yrs.

While some argue that the Pelicans take a stretch-big here, the Pelicans have to be tempted by Kira Lewis Jr.’s ability to run the fast break. Franchise savior Zion Williamson is at his most useful in the fast break, where he can exploit mismatches and catch lobs all day long. This is contingent on Zion being in shape, but all signs are trending positively. Kira Lewis Jr. is more than a speedy point guard, however, he can also space the floor well (37% from 3) and knows how to hit the open man. His size limits his defensive versatility, but he can match up okay with players his size.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 17.7 pts., 4.6 reb., 5.0 ast., 0,6 blk., 1.7 stl.

14. Boston Celtics (From Memphis Grizzlies)

The Pick- Tyrese Maxey, Guard, Kentucky

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’3″, 198 lbs., 20 yrs.

The Celtics are fresh off of their heartbreaking Eastern Conference loss and are looking to re-tool with their 3 first-round picks this draft. They use their first pick to strengthen their bench with Tyrese Maxey. His stats don’t jump off the page, but that is more a product of the system he played in at Kentucky. Maxey is not a great shooter, but his compact form and high free- throw percentage suggest that there is potential. He is a very capable defender, and his intensity & hustle make him a perfect fit to come off the bench for a hungry Boston team who is looking to contend for a title.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 14.6 pts., 4.5 reb., 3.3 ast., 0.4 blk., 0.9 stl.

15. Orlando Magic

The Pick- R.J. Hampton, Point Guard, New Zealand

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 188 lbs., 19 yrs.

Orlando is not looking for anything particular in this draft, they just need a star. R.J. Hampton is a prospect with a very high ceiling, arguably one of the highest in the draft, but also a very low floor. His fit next to former #1 overall pick Markelle Fultz is questionable, as neither are great shooters. However, Hampton’s upside as an elite perimeter defender and playmaker make him a prospect that Orlando will find tough to pass on.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 15.4 pts., 6.8 reb., 4.2 ast., 0.6 blk., 1.9 stl.

16. Portland Trail Blazers

The Pick- Saddiq Bey, Forward, Villanova

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’8″, 216 lbs., 21 yrs.

The Blazers were one of the most fun teams to watch in the Orlando Bubble, with superstar point guard Damian Lillard taking home Bubble MVP. This team is not a true contender and was barely a playoff team, and part of that is because of their lackluster perimeter defense and (except for Lillard and McCollum) outside shooting. Saddiq Bey would solve both of these problems. His playstyle is emblematic of the modern NBA, a 6’8″ forward who can light it up from outside, play lock-down perimeter defense, and create for others. He struggles off the dribble and does not have much of an isolation game, but that is not what he is drafted to do. If the Blazers can utilize Bey properly, expect him to blossom into a very good 3&D player.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 17.1 pts., 5.0 reb., 2.5 ast., 0.4 blk., 0.8 stl.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves (From Brooklyn Nets)

The Pick- Precious Achiuwa, Power Forward, Memphis

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’9″, 234 lbs., 21 yrs.

Back on the clock with their 2nd pick of the 1st round, and the Timberwolves address their defensive need here with Precious Achiuwa. He may be bit undersized and still raw, he is a high-energy athlete who can defend multiple positions with his 7’2″ wingspan, box-out and rebound well, and is an adept playmaker from the post. Achiuwa can be the defensive stalwart that the Timberwolves need to be competitive.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 18.7 pts., 12.8 reb., 1.1 ast., 2.2 blk., 1.3 stl.

18. Dallas Mavericks

The Pick- Desmond Bane, Shooting Guard, TCU

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 215 lbs., 22 yrs.

The Mavericks have been blessed by the basketball gods once again with generational talent and MVP favorite Luka Doncic and 7’3″ sharpshooter Kristaps Porzingis. They have a championship-caliber core, but they lack bench depth. Desmond Bane can come in immediately and make an impact off the bench. He is a fantastic shooter from deep (43% in 4 years) and possesses the defensive IQ and ability that the Mavericks desperately need. He struggles a bit when trying to create his own shot, but he has shown flashes of improvement. Expect Bane to make a big impact for the Mavs early.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 16.6 pts., 6.3 reb., 3.9 ast., 0.5 blk., 1.5 stl.

19. Brooklyn Nets (From Philadelphia 76ers)

The Pick- Jalen Smith, Power Forward, Maryland

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’10”, 225 lbs., 20 yrs.

With the return of superstar Kevin Durant from injury, the Nets are instantly a title contender. They have talent all throughout the team, and no real needs. Jalen Smith goes here because of his ability as a stretch big, rebounder, and rim protector. He can camp out in the corner for 3, being a safety net as Durant and Kyrie Irving will be doing the bulk of the ball-handling. Smith does lack a decent playmaking ability, and his perimeter defense is weak, but he will have plenty of opportunities to learn and grow under new head coach Steve Nash.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 17.8 pts., 12.1 reb., 0.9 ast., 2.7 blk., 0.8 stl.

20. Miami Heat

The Pick- Robert Woodard II, Small Forward, Mississippi State

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’7″, 235 lbs., 20 yrs.

Robert Woodard is not the flashiest player in the draft, as he barely averaged 11 points a game and not many have heard of him. However, there is no better fit for the Miami Heat culture than him. He dives for loose balls, plays with intensity and heart, defends anyone on the court, rebounds, passes, and shot 42% from 3 his sophomore year. Woodard is the ideal player for the Miami Heat to add to their rotation if they hope to return to the finals. His offensive game is limited, he struggles to create opportunities for himself, but he more than makes up for it with his plethora of other basketball abilities.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 12.4 pts., 7.1 reb., 1.4 ast., 1.1 blk., 1.2 stl.

21. Philadelphia 76ers (From Oklahoma City Thunder)

The Pick- Tyrell Terry, Point Guard, Stanford

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’3″, 170 lbs., 20 yrs.

The Sixers have one person on their roster who can both dribble effectively and shoot well in Shake Milton. They have a serious lack of perimeter shooting and playmakers, so Tyrell Terry instantly makes an impact on this team. His flamethrower jumper and seemingly limitless range, combined with his ball-handling and playmaking prowess, make him the perfect fit in Philadelphia next to stars Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. Although he has the quickness to be a good defender, he is very undersized and opposing players can easily overpower him. The Sixers are a very good defensive team and will be able to hide Terry on defense. Ben Simmons leads the league in 3-point assists since he entered the league in 2017, making this pairing feel like a match made in heaven.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 16.2 pts., 5.0 reb., 3.5 ast., 0.1 blk., 1.5 stl.

22. Denver Nuggets (From Houston Rockets)

The Pick- Josh Green, Shooting Guard, Arizona

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’5″, 214 lbs., 19 yrs.

The Nuggets were another entertaining team to watch in the Bubble, with stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray showing that they can lead a team in the playoffs. But, while Denver is an offensive juggernaut, they are lackluster on the defensive end. They would also benefit from more 3-point shooting from their supporting cast. Josh Green is the perfect fit because while his statistics may not jump off the page, he was a 36% 3-point shooter at Arizona, and is a very good athlete and perimeter defender. He needs some time to develop before he can become a real contributor, but if he pans out then Denver may have gotten yet another late-round steal.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 14.0 pts., 5.3 reb., 3.0 ast., 0.5 blk., 1.8 stl.

23. Utah Jazz

The Pick- Cole Anthony, Point Guard, North Carolina

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’3″, 184 lbs., 20 yrs.

Once touted as a top-5 pick, Cole Anthony falls to 23 due to a combination of inconsistent play and injury last season. Despite this he is still one of the best prospects in the draft, with the ability to seemingly score at will. His jumper and playmaking ability needs improvement, but Utah has a great coaching staff and veteran point guard Mike Conley for him to learn from. If Utah can develop Anthony properly, he could be a very dynamic backcourt mate for franchise star Donovan Mitchell.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 19.1 pts., 5.9 reb., 4.1 ast., 0.3 blk., 1.4 stl.

24. Milwaukee Bucks (From Indiana Pacers)

The Pick- Tre Jones, Point Guard, Duke

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’2″, 185 lbs., 20 yrs.

The Bucks are in serious danger of losing back-to-back MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. They need to surround Giannis with players who can hold their own defensively, pass the ball well, and shoot from outside. Tre Jones fits the bill. He may be undersized and his isolation skills are lacking but his strengths are what they need.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 16.5 pts., 4.3 reb., 6.5 ast., 0.4 blk., 1.8 stl.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder (From Denver Nuggets)

The Pick- Jaden McDaniels, Power Forward, Washington

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’10”, 184 lbs., 20 yrs.

The Thunder are at a fork in the road in terms of franchise direction. They could either trade Chris Paul for picks and rebuild, or keep him and try to remain competitive. Going Jaden McDaniels at 25 actually works out well in both directions. If the Thunder begin a rebuild, he has lots of potential and can be a building block next to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. If they decide to remain competitive, he fills a positional need as an all-around small forward who can score at all 3 levels. Once he adds some weight in an NBA weight-program, he projects to be a very good defender because of his mobility.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 15.0 pts., 6.7 reb., 2.4 ast., 1.6 blk., 0.9 stl.

26. Boston Celtics

The Pick- Udoka Azubuike, Center, Kansas

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’11”, 260 lbs., 21 yrs.

The Celtics use their 2nd pick in the 1st round and add some much needed rim protection with big man Udoka Azubuike here. In the playoffs this past season, Joel Ebriid and Bam Adebayo dominated the Celtics. Azubuike fixes that problem and even provides a bit of offense as a roll man and lob threat.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 17.9 pts., 13.6 reb., 1.2 ast., 3.4 blk., 0.6 stl.

27. New York Knicks (From Los Angeles Clippers)

The Pick- Aleksej Pokusevski, Center, Serbia

Ht./Wt./Age- 7’0″, 201 lbs., 18 yrs.

After taking one of the safest picks with Isaac Okoro, the Knicks take a gamble here and take arguably the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in the draft with Aleksej Pokusevski. At his highest, he is Kristaps Porzingis with the handles of a guard, and at his worst he is an unplayable defensive liability due to his weakness. If Pokusevski can reach his full potential, he may be the savior the Knicks have been looking for.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 16.7 pts., 12.2 reb., 4.8 ast., 2.8 blk., 2.0 stl.

28. Los Angeles Lakers

The Pick- Malachi Flynn, Point Guard, San Diego State

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’1″, 185 lbs., 22 yrs.

Fresh off of a championship run in the Bubble, the Lakers have a lot of questions this offseason. Key members of their title run are free agents, arguably the most important of these being guard Rajon Rondo. If Rondo does not return, Malachi Flynn can be the next man up. A pro-ready natural playmaker, he has a knack for finding the open man and has great court vision. Flynn is also a very capable outside shooter, unlike Rondo, but he is not a lock-down perimeter defender, also unlike Rondo. The Lakers are aiming to be back-to-back champions this coming season and Malachi Flynn can be a contributor right away.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 19.0 pts., 4.8 reb., 5.5 ast., 0.1 blk., 1.9 stl.

29. Toronto Raptors

The Pick- Zeke Nnaji, Center, Arizona

The Raptors are in immediate need of a big after starting center Marc Gasol announced that he would be playing in Spain for his final years. Zeke Nnaji is a natural replacement for the Raptors, as a potential rebuild looms. Nnaji is not the same player as Gasol, but he very well could be. He has a very versatile offensive skillset and projects favorably as a stretch 5 that can also be a lob threat. His defensive ability needs improvement, but he has all the tools to do so.

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’10”, 247 lbs., 19 yrs.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 18.9 pts., 10.1 reb., 1.0 ast., 1.0 blk., 0.8 stl.

30. Boston Celtics (From Milwaukee Bucks)

The Pick- Tyler Bey, Small Forward, Colorado

Ht./Wt./Age- 6’7″, 213 lbs., 22 yrs.

The Celtics use the last of their 1st rounders and take Tyler Bey, an intriguing player who, if developed correctly, could be yet another outside scoring 2-way wing. He is a good 3-point shooter and despite being used as a center in college, he is a capable defender on the perimeter as well as inside. Bey will need some time in the G-League to progress as a perimeter player, but once he gets some experience playing the wing he could be a valuable bench piece for Boston.

Per 36 Minutes Stats- 17.2 pts., 11.2 reb., 1.8 ast., 1.4 blk., 1.9 stl.

The post 2020 NBA Mock Draft appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Many called Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey a “mad scientist” when he traded borderline top-10 center Clint Capela to the Hawks and effectively replaced him with Robert Covington in the lineup. After all, no modern-era team has ever had a starting five this short. But Morey, a noted basketball savant, believes that what he had implemented will forever change the game.

The center position is one that historically dominated NBA History. From the days of Wilt Chamberlain and his legendary 50 point seasons to Shaquille O’Neal and his dominant combination of size and strength, the big man has been king of basketball. He’s taken home the lion’s share of MVP trophies throughout history and been the centerpiece of many championship teams, and that’s why people watch this sport and even do some gambling on it at babu88 ক্যাসিনো. Although if you really want to do bets online you should go to slot online indonesia, since this is the best way to gamble online. Explore this แทงบอลสด platform for real-time odds, in-depth statistics, and an immersive betting experience.

As time has gone on, basketball athletes have evolved and basketball itself has become a more skills-based competition instead of being dominated by giants. This resulted in the likes of Larry Bird, Julius Erving, and Michael Jordan, resulting in the big man becoming more of an accessory than the main piece. Fast forward to today, only a select handful of teams rely on their center for most of their offense.

The Houston Rockets went all-in on that very idea when the 2020 trade deadline happened, and the Houston Rockets took part in a four-team, 12 player team trade. On Tuesday, February 4th, The Houston Rockets traded Clint Capela and Nenê to the Atlanta Hawks, as well as swingman Gerald Green and a 2020 First to the Denver Nuggets. Houston acquired Minnesota Timberwolves forwards Robert Covington and Jordan Bell, as well as a 2024 Second from Atlanta via Golden State. Also in the trade, the Nuggets received forward Keita Bates-Diop, Shabazz Napier, Noah Vonleh, and the Rockets’ Gerald Green (who was later waived) and Houston’s first-round pick in 2020. The Timberwolves got the Nuggets’ Malik Beasley, Juancho Hernangomez, and Jarred Vanderbilt as well as the Hawks’ Evan Turner and the Hawks’ 2020 first-round pick via the Brooklyn Nets. The Rockets later waived center Isaiah Hartenstein as part of the transaction. The new Rockets’ starting 5 became: Russell Westbrook (6’3”) and the point James Harden at the 2-guard (6’5”), Danuel House at small forward (6’7”), Robert Covington at power forward (6’7”), and P.J. Tucker as the de-facto center (6’5”). With this new lineup, the Houston Rockets started what is easily the shortest lineup in a generation but this is a strong team for people to support and watch, some even bet on them in sites like 먹튀검증 online. Vedonlyonti-ilman-rekisteroitymista.com explains how players can bet on their website without registering.

With this new lineup the game plan was simple: shoot as many Three-pointers and layups as possible. Although a radical idea that was met with plenty of confusion, it has paid off tremendously as they advanced to the 2^nd round in the playoffs and finished with a 44-28 (.611) record in this pandemic shortened season, 4-4 in the Orlando Bubble, and the 4th seed in the Western Conference. Looking at the data, the top 3 lineups Houston used (against their recent 7 game series against Oklahoma City Thunder) only took an average of 3.6% percent of their shots from the midrange. For comparison, Denver’s top 3 lineups in their series averaged 18.36% of their shots from the midrange in their 7-game series against the Utah Jazz, a 501% increased chance versus Houston’s likelihood. The three lineups for Houston? [shown below]

Before diving into the stats, the numbers should be given context. Net rating is a stat that shows how well different lineups perform. The stat is based off a team’s offensive and defensive ratings. The official formula is Offensive Rating – Defensive Rating = Net rating. Offensive Rating is how many points a team would score in 100 game possessions and is a measure of a team’s offensive production. Defensive rating is the exact opposite, it is how many points that lineup/player would let up given 100 possessions, another rough estimate of a team’s defensive production. If a team has a positive Net rating, the team performs better offensively. If negative, it projects to let up more points than it would produce. Lineup #1 has a Net rating of 8.6, including a defensive rating of 90.6, which shows that despite their lack of a true “big man”, they can still effectively defend. Lineup #2 has a Net rating of 20.0, including incredible ratings of 114.9 offensively and 94.8 on the defensive side. Lineup #3 has a Net Rating of -8.8, but that is in large part due to Jeff Green. Without Jeff Green, the lineup of Harden, Gordon, House, and Tucker is 8.1. These numbers show that these Moreyball are just as, if not more effective, than traditional lineups.

Other NBA teams may not be as radical with their roster makeup as Daryl Morey is, but teams have definitely been listening to their analytics staff. Shown in the figure above, the mid-range jumper has become markedly less popular in the last 20 years as three-pointers and layups have seen a sharp uptick in attempt frequency. This begs me to ask: Is Moreyball the game of the future? Some people can even play and bet online using sites as Free Slots online.

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