With the draft lottery taking place last night, it’s now time to take a look at the top 3 players in the NBA draft.
1. Blake Griffin – PF |
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Ratings |
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A |
A |
B+ |
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Pros
Is a beast in the post. Scores at will and can out rebound almost anyone. Has good size for a PF in the NBA. Has great strength and pretty good dribbling ability for a big man. Has one of the best vertical jumps you’ll ever see from someone who is 250+ lbs. Should be an immediate impact player in the NBA.
Cons
Free throw shooting doesn’t seem to be one of Blake’s strengths. During his 2008-09 stint with the Oklahoma Sooners, he shot 59% from the line. Considering he gets to the line approximately 9 times a game, that will be one of the aspects of Blake’s game that will need some work. Also, a consistently good mid-long range jump shot and better assist-to-turnover ratio would be assets.
Consensus
Definitely a top 3 pick. Most NBA scouts already have him ranked at #1. He’s your typical big man, but with better offensive abilities and will feed off of the NBA style of play.
2. Ricky Rubio – PG |
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Ratings |
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B- |
C+ |
A |
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Pros
A great play maker. He’s creative and can make defenders look silly. He’s definitely one of the fastest, and most skilled players coming into this year’s draft. Can steal the ball and create an odd-man rush like the best of them. Has the potential to become a solid PG in the NBA. Best case scenario, Jason Kidd type player, worst case scenario Jason ‘White Chocolate’ Williams type player. Either way his future looks promising.
Cons
Will probably struggle to score in the NBA with his below average shooting. Rubio isn’t really known for his scoring ability. Needs to work more on his defensive game.
Consensus
Rubio is currently the top PG in the draft. Many people question whether he can do well in the NBA considering that he has never played outside Europe.
3. Hasheem Thabeet – C |
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Ratings |
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A- |
A- |
B- |
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Pros
Has the perfect size for a big man in the NBA. One of the best blockers in college history, with a couple 10 block games. Is a good scorer down low. Great percentage from the field. Very athletic quick for a guy that is 7’0″ tall.
Cons
Doesn’t always use his size to his advantage on offensive. During the 2008-09 season, he shot 62.7% from the line, down 7.1% from his previous season.
Consensus
Thabeet can play the game well at both ends, on offense and defense. He will be an immediate impact player on the boards and blocks. May take some time to develop offensively.
