X's T'wolves (NBA 2K11)

[Fresh8]

Agreed with Hov and L-Train

[The X]

Am busy. Such is life.

[shadowgrin]

Let me handle this X.


X says ya'll can suck it for now

[The X]

Cheers shadow

Anyways, got first round complete. Should be pretty quick to finish now. Hopefully up by mid-week, all things going well

[hova-]

Cool to hear that. Didn't want to put pressure on you but I guess that's not what happened. Just wanted to bump the thread a bit as it was stuck way down on the forum

[The X]

2011 OFF-SEASON RECAP - NBA DRAFT

2011 NBA DRAFT - LOTTERY

ESPN Narrator: Welcome to the 2011 NBA Draft, one of the showcase nights for the NBA where the league celebrates its stars of the future as they are sent to all corners of the nation. One good pick can change the face of a franchise, and one bad pick can set a team back a few years. All that being said, tonight is more than a celebration for the draftees and their families, it is also very serious business for all 30 teams involved. Without further ado let's cross direct to the Draft Stage where NBA Commissioner David Stern is about to announce the 1st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft."



1st ROUND (LOTTERY)

Stern: “With the 1st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Atlanta Hawks select Perry Buchanan from UCLA.”

1. Atlanta: SG- Perry Buchanan, UCLA

X: “Bruins’ shooting guard Perry Buchanan is a do-everything shooting guard in the mold and pedigree of a Kobe Bryant. Buchanan is a great athlete and the game comes easy to him. How he plays next to Joe Johnson, who also requires the rock in his hands, will determine how good this pick ends up being.

There was late talk of Maryland’s Floyd Bradley going here, but in the end the Hawks took the best player, regardless of position. They’re a pretty good team who just had one down season. They’ll find room for Buchanan in their rotation.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Perry Buchanan is class. He’s exactly the type of player that the New York Knicks needed to get over the hump. HOT-lanta got themselves a PLAYAH!!!”

X: “Golden State is up next with the 2nd pick in this year’s Draft.”


Stern: “With the 2nd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors select Chuck Smith from Oregon State University.”

2. Golden State: SG- Chuck Smith, Oregon State

X: “No surprise here, Warriors were going to take either Buchanan or Smith, whoever was leftover from the Hawks’ pick. I like this pick. Floyd Bradley made no sense at this spot when they’ve already got Steph Curry and Monta Ellis. Smith will fit.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Chuck is an athletic specimen, the likes that makes scouts drool all over him. He’s an athletic freak with wingspan to boot. It’s just a shame that nation won’t see much of him now that he’s with the Warriors.”

X: “Looks like Commissioner Stern is heading to the podium for a special announcement.”


Stern: “We have a trade to announce. The Golden State Warriors have traded the rights to Chuck Smith to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Wesley Johnson and Anthony Tolliver.”

TRADE:
GSW receives: SF- Wesley Johnson, PF- Anthony Tolliver
Min receives: SG- Chuck Smith (#2)


Stern: “With the 3rd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Toronto Raptors select Floyd Bradley of the University of Maryland.”

3. Toronto: PG- Floyd Bradley, Maryland

X: “The Raptors really hit the jackpot with Bradley dropping. He’s easily the best lead guard in the Draft and he’s got a lot of upside. He’s going to start straight away and has a chance to develop into a star in Toronto.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Another great young player heading to obscurity. He doesn’t look overly happy to be going to Toronto, nor is anyone. The League has to get these young studs to teams in the big markets.”

X: “What, like the Knicks? Anyways, let’s talk about the trade that Commissioner Stern just announced. Minnesota sent second year swingman Wesley Johnson and forward Anthony Tolliver to Golden State for the rights to Oregon State SG Chuck Smith.

To me it really looks like the Timberwolves got their man. Heading into the Draft they were eyeing a starting shooting guard and they appear to have got that in Chuck Smith. They probably didn’t like giving up Wesley Johnson to get him, but it looks like it was a deal they were willing to make. The Wolves also shed Tolliver’s contract, which Kahn has been reportedly trying to move for a while.

Meanwhile, the Warriors got the starting small forward that they so desperately coveted. In reality Golden State didn’t need another guard so they moved their pick for a position in need. Overall, not a bad trade for either team. Your thoughts Stephen E.?”

Stephen E. Smith: “Haha, if you thought you weren’t going to see Smith much on TV in Golden State, you’ll never see him in Minnesota. That’s about as close as you can get to Siberia without leaving the States’ borders. First Love, then Rubio and now Chuck Smith. Bad for the league, very bad for the league.”

X: “Sorry to cut you off their Stephen, but Commissioner Stern is about to announce Philadelphia’s pick.”


Stern: “With the 4th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia 76ers select Ciro Nunez from Argentina.”

4. Philadelphia: SG- Ciro Nunez, Argentina

X: “This is the first semi-interesting pick. For sure I thought 76ers would try to get frontcourt help, whether it be a big like Svensson or one of the many quality small forwards on offer like Strickland, Burks or Lam. Where does Nunez figure into the picture? 76ers already got Evan Turner, reigning 1st Rookie Team, starting 2 guard, a player who’s only going to get better. I wonder if the 76ers are making this pick for somebody else. Nunez had good workouts and people from around the league like him a lot.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Bad pick. What are Philly thinking? Firstly, you’ve already got Evan Turner and secondly, you’ve already got Evan Turner. So I ask myself, why do the 76ers need this South American guy? He’s not Manu Ginobili. The only similarity that he has with Manu is that they’re similar size, they’re both from Argentina and they are both left handed. I really don’t understand the 76ers’ thought process here.”

X: “We’ve got rumours coming in that Toronto’s earlier pick, Floyd Bradley, might be moved. We’ll keep tabs on that. We now cross back to David Stern on the Draft Stage, with the New Jersey Nets on the clock with the 5th pick.”


Stern: “With the 5th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the New Jersey Nets select Leslie Berry from DePaul University.”

5. New Jersey: SG- Leslie Berry, DePaul

X: “I think the Nets were in shock with this pick. They expected Nunez to be there at 5 and he wasn’t, so they’ve taken who they believe to be the next best shooting guard. Berry had a great Big East Tournament, but I really think the Nets missed the mark and stretched a bit. I would’ve preferred to see Svensson go here.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Can’t argue with you there X. This is the first thing I agree with you on tonight.”

X: “The Minnesota Timberwolves are up next. Let’s see what GM David Kahn has up his sleeve today. He seems to be setting the precedent for the night with the trade for Chuck Smith.”


Stern: “With the 6th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves select Johan Svensson from Sweden.”

6. Minnesota: PF- Johan Svensson, Sweden

X: “The Nets loss is the Timberwolves’ gain. First they nab the prized Chuck Smith from Golden State, now they picked up the best big man in the Draft. Kahn is really re-tooling this team tonight Stephen.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Guy looks like Ron Jeremy, classic stuff. Looks like women in Minnesota won’t go cold this winter.”

X: “The Los Angeles Clippers are up next.”

Stephen A. Smith: “This should be interesting.”


Stern: “With the 7th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Clippers select Mo Bosh of the University of Nebraska.”

7. LA Clippers: PG- Mo Bosh, Nebraska

X: “Good, solid pick by the Clippers. The second best point guard in the Draft, a proven leader with big heart. A bit undersized, but that hasn’t stopped the likes of Jameer Nelson from succeeding.”

Stephen E. Smith: “A trusted source of mine has indicated to me that the Clippers tried to deal this pick with Baron Davis to Minnesota for Kevin Love, but Kahn flat out rejected the offer.”

X: “Interesting, but I think Kahn made the right move. Anyways, New Orleans are up. They’ve got to be disappointed that Bosh got snapped up by the Clippers, but it should come as no surprise to them.”


Stern: “With the 8th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Hornets select Dillon Stevens of the University of Miami.”

8. New Orleans: SG- Dillon Stevens, Miami (FL)

X: “Not entirely unexpected. Not a knockout pick, but Stevens will help the Hornets win ball games.”

We’re hearing some rumours that Minnesota might’ve struck another deal, this time sending Jonny Flynn and another piece for the number 4 pick, Ciro Nunez. It’s just a rumour at this stage but with Rubio coming over this season, there may be some credence to it.

Anyways, let’s cross over back to the Draft Stage where Commissioner Stern will announce who the Cavs are going to pick.”


Stern: “With the 9th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers select Jin Lam from China.”

9. Cleveland: SF- Jin Lam, China

X: “Lam is a great athlete and will get a chance to start straight away for the Cavs at the SF spot left vacant by Lebron James a year ago.”

Stephen E. Smith: “HE AIN’T LEBRON JAMES!!! HE AIN’T EVEN CARMELO ANTHONY OR CHINESE VERSION OR WHATEVER THEY’RE GOING ON ABOUT OVER THERE!!! Short of Lebron James, does it really matter?”

X: “Lam’s got some game Stephen E.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Unless he’s Lebron in disguise, FRANKLY IT DON’T MATTER!!!”


Stern: “With the 10th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers select Rickey Harper of the University of Memphis.”

10. Indiana: PF- Rickey Harper, Memphis

X: “I heard Harper was dropping. He’s supposed to be a smaller version of J-Smoove.

Looks like the Commissioner is coming out early. We might have a trade, perhaps involving the T-wolves and Jonny Flynn.”


Stern: “We have a trade to announce. The Minnesota Timberwolves have traded the rights to Chuck Smith to the Toronto Raptors for the rights to Floyd Bradley and a future 1st Round Draft Pick in 2012.”

TRADE:
Min receives: PG- Floyd Bradley (#3), 2012 1st Round Pick (Tor)
Tor receives: SG- Chuck Smith (#2)

X: “Wow, just wow, I didn’t see that coming. This seems a little strange for Raptors. They must have been really enamoured with Chuck Smith, even though they really desperately needed a point guard. They also gave up their 1st Round pick from next year to move up only one spot, which is quite incredible considering that pick is unprotected and has got a good chance to be a lottery pick.

Wolves’ GM David Kahn is playing a dangerous game. Having just convinced Ricky Rubio to come over, bringing in another young, talented point guard who will take his minutes is a head scratcher. Perhaps the Wolves’ proposed deal of Jonny Flynn to the Philadelphia 76ers is going ahead, which would probably ease the immediate fears of Rubio’s camp. Otherwise this might just be another classic Kahn move. Although at least this time he added a quality asset, Toronto’s 2012 1st Round Draft Pick. My guess is that although he liked Chuck Smith, it was too good an offer to turn down.

The time on the clock has expired for the Bucks pick. Let’s cross back to Commissioner David Stern, who is about to announce Milwaukee’s selection.”


Stern: “With the 11th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Milwaukee Bucks select Richie Strickland of Baylor University.”

11. Milwaukee: SF- Richie Strickland, Baylor

X: “Richie reportedly had some great workouts but in the end it didn’t really move him up much, if anything at all.”

Stephen E. Smith: “What are the Milwaukee Bucks THINKING? They already have three hundred forwards on their roster, so I don’t see where he fits. You’ve got Corey Maggette, that Turkish guy Ilya-whatever and I’m sure countless other guys in front of him. Doesn’t matter I guess, Bucks will suck again.”

X: “Does seem like a strange pick but sometimes at this spot it is best to take best available player and the pieces will sort themselves out later. Stern is now up to announce Utah’s pick.”



Stern: “With the 12th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz select Art Burks from Vanderbilt University.”

12. Utah: SF- Art Burks, Vanderbilt

X: “Burks is the first player to drop a bit from his initial projections once he declared. Perhaps the freshman should’ve stayed another year in college. All indications that I’ve heard from his workouts is that Burks has a nice future ahead of him but he is still very raw. Seems most teams aren’t willing to wait. The Jazz is probably one that is.”


Stern: “With the 13th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Sacramento Kings select Lambros Washburn of the University of Washington.”

13. Sacramento: PG- Lambros Washburn, Washington

X: “Solid pick, Lambros has a chance to start right away in Sacramento, with only disgruntled Beno Udrih as competition. He’ll get a chance to develop next to a young star like Tyreke Evans and get to play some cards with DeMarcus Cousins.”

Stephen E. Smith: “FINALLY, a team picks sensibly. That’s three straight years of good picks for the Kings. Those Maloofs are no slouches.”

X: “Memphis is now up as they round out the final pick of the lottery.”


Stern: “With the 14th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Memphis Grizzlies select Dion Baylor of the University of Mississippi.”

14. Memphis: PF- Dion Baylor, Ole Miss

X: “A good pick for a good Memphis Grizzlies’ squad. There was talk they may grab a centre, but they grabbed insurance for Zach Randolph, in case he is not re-signed. Your thoughts Stephen?”

Stephen E. Smith: “He’s a loser. Did you see him in the NCAA Tournament? He bombed big time. He can’t be relied on in big games. Then again, when do Memphis ever play in big games? Yep, good pick for Memphis, fits them to a T.”

[The X]

2011 OFF-SEASON RECAP - NBA DRAFT

2011 NBA DRAFT – 1st ROUND (POST-LOTTERY)

ESPN Narrator: We welcome you back to the 2011 NBA Draft and we pick things up after the lottery selections have concluded. The Washington Wizards are on the clock with the 15th pick as we once again cross to the Draft Stage where NBA Commissioner David Stern is set to announce the Wizards’ pick."



1st ROUND (POST-LOTTERY)

Stern: “With the 15th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Washington Wizards select Jamaal Fordham of the University of Illinois.”

15. Washington: C- Jamaal Fordham, Illinois

X: “I think the surprising Wizards have gone ahead and added another piece to the puzzle. Fordham is the best true centre in the Draft and to get him at this point is a great coup for their organisation. I think he’ll split time with Javelle McGee as a rookie.”

Stephen E. Smith: “You don’t get much bigger than Jamaal Fordham and I don’t say that sort of thing lightly.”


Stern: “With the 16th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia 76ers select Bo Gregory from Seton Hall University.”

16. Philadelphia: C- Bo Gregory, Seton Hall

X: “The Pirates have a first round pick. Their first one since the late Eddie Griffin went 7th overall to the New Jersey Nets and subsequently traded to the Houston Rockets. Bo is the sort of player that could have a long, solid career in the NBA and a team like Philly fits his style, which is blue collar. Thoughts Stephen E.?”

Stephen E. Smith: “My only thought is with this fine New York City crowd. THE BEST SPORTS LOVING CITY IN THE WORLD BABY!!! Knicks are up. The crowd excitement is building, they’ve starting chanting.”

X: “It’s great isn’t?”

Stephen E. Smith: “Sure is X. WE WANT MELO!!! MELO NEEDS NYC!!!”

X: “Who you got them taking?”

Stephen E. Smith: “William Witt. WITT, WITT, WITT!!!”


Stern: “With the 17th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the New York Knicks select….

Chuck Long from West Virginia University.”

17. New York Knicks: C- Chuck Long, West Virginia

X: “Some scattered boos out there. Some of them must’ve wanted Witt too. Shame really because Long is a great fit for this New York team. The Knicks were in bad need of another big and a versatile one that could play next to Amar’e and they got one in West Virginia’s Chuck Long. Coach D’Antoni will be happy with this pick.”

Stephen E. Smith: “If they can get Melo, it doesn’t really matter who they picked.”


Stern: “With the 18th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks select Rudolph Schultz from Kansas State University.”

18. Dallas: C- Rudolph Schultz, Kansas State

X: “After no centres got taken in the lottery, with the next four picks teams took big men. Schultz will add some more depth behind Brendan Hayward.”


Stern: “With the 19th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Milwaukee Bucks select Robin Norton of the University of South Carolina.”

19. Milwaukee: SF- Robin Norton, South Carolina

X: “With what was Phoenix’s 1st Round Pick that they received in the trade, courtesy of giving up Carlos Delfino and taking on Channing Frye’s contract. I guess the Bucks weren’t listening to this broadcast earlier Stephen E., otherwise they would’ve heart your rant after they picked Strickland. Looks like they picked another small forward. Thoughts Stephen E.?

Wait a sec, looks like Stephen E. has stormed off. Looks like the Bucks’ latest pick was too much for him to handle. Let’s continue, the ageing Spurs are up.”


Stern: “With the 20th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the San Antonio Spurs select Calbert Andrew from Iowa State University.”

20. San Antonio: SF- Calbert Andrew, Iowa State

X: “The second straight year the Spurs have made a semi-questionable pick in this range. Last year it was James Anderson, this year it is Calbert Andrew. Both solid collegiate players from mediocre teams in major conferences and both were pegged as early 2nd Round picks. I much preferred when Spurs worked with very late 1st and 2nd Round picks and picked Euro and South American players.”


Stern: “With the 21st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic select Andy Woodson of the University of Wisconsin.”

21. Orlando: SG- Andy Woodson, Wisconsin

X: “The Magic add another shooter to put around Dwight Howard. I honestly don’t know if it’s the right pick for them, Woodson just replicates what J.J. does. I can’t help but think that the Magic would’ve been better served picking Woodson’s teammate, Marcel Moore.”


Stern: “With the 22nd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Chicago Bulls select Elden Jennings from North Carolina State University.”

22. Chicago: SG- Elden Jennings, NC State

X: “Looks like we have a few Wolfpack in the house. The Bulls seem to once again be reaching for a shooting guard in all the wrong places. I can’t believe another team has passed on UNC freshman power forward Lloyd Murphy, he is really sliding.”


Stern: “With the 23rd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Denver Nuggets select Lloyd Murphy of the University from North Carolina.”

23. Denver: PF- Lloyd Murphy, UNC

X: “Great pick by the Nuggets. Murphy could end up being the steal of the night. He’s got a chance to play minutes right away, especially if Kenyon Martin does not re-sign. I’m not sure why so many teams passed on him.

Look what the cat dragged in. Good to have you back Stephen E. and just in time for Portland’s pick.”


Stern: “With the 24th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Portland Trailblazers select William Witt from Saint Mary’s University.”

24. Portland: PG- William Witt, SMU

Stephen E. Smith: “SWAGGAH!!! That’s what this kid has. Knicks might regret passing on Witt.”

X: “Blazers seem to like their Aussie Gaels, this is the second time in the past three Drafts that they’ve taken a point guard from Saint Mary’s. Witt has a chance to back up Jose Calderon, assuming Andre Miller is not re-signed. If he is, Witt could be the odd man out. Either ways, fans are gonna love this kid.

Wait, what’s this, Witt is actually in the crowd with his agent. He’s coming from the crowd, high fiving anybody who is willing, “MY TEAM BABY!!!”. Guess he wanted to shake the Commissioner’s hand on the big night. He looks like he’s having some fun on his way down.”


Stern: “With the 25th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets select Gus Knight from Penn State University.”

25. Charlotte: C- Gus Knight, Penn State

X: “Knight is a solid pick at this juncture and provides more depth inside for MJ’s Bobcats.

I just have reports in regarding the Minnesota-Philadelphia trade that was discussed earlier in the night. At the time it was believed that Minnesota had agreed in principle to send Jonny Flynn to Philadelphia for the rights to Ciro Nunez, whom the 76ers picked 4th overall.

It looks like those trade talks are now dead as the 76ers were only willing to make the deal if the Timberwolves gave up centre Darko Milicic and accepted centre Spencer Hawes, who was recently re-signed to a horrific 5 year, $56.47 million deal.

That’s a toxic contract if ever I have seen one. No wonder Kahn pulled the plug on that deal. I guess Kahn will have to find another taker for Jonny Flynn.

It actually looks like Johan Svensson is the hottest name on Draft Night, with the T-wolves having reportedly rejected interest from Cleveland, Milwaukee and Orlando. Interestingly enough, the Magic offered Marcin Gortat and the rights to the #21 pick, which turned out to be Andy Woodson, for Svensson and Nikolai Pekovic.”


Stern: “With the 26th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder select Jess Kennedy from Valparaiso University.”

26. Oklahoma City: C- Jess Kennedy, Valparaiso

X: “It’s hard to find value this late down the order, so the Thunder took a big that can provide six fouls a night.”

Stephen E. Smith: “I believe STIFF was the appropriate word you were looking for X.”

X: “I think Marcel Moore was better value. He’s really sliding. The Lakers and Heat need a point guard so there’s a chance he’s falls to one of those teams.”


Stern: “With the 27th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics select Lefteris Balidis from Greece.”

27. Boston: SF- Lefteris Balidis, Greece

X: “The Celtics fell one shot shy of a repeat trip to the NBA Finals. Perhaps Lefteris makes the difference next year, perhaps not.”

Stephen E. Smith: “That’s Righteris X.”


Stern: “With the 28th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers select Istvan Kaffka from Hungary.”

28. LA Lakers: PG- Istvan Kaffka, Hungary

X: “Kaffka really sky rocketed up from a mid-to-late 2nd Round pick only a month ago to a potential late lottery selection as of last week. I think the hype waned a little and the Lakers are taking a flyer on him. Shame really, Marcel Moore is probably more NBA ready.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Kaffka won’t even see light of day in Hollywood. Lakers just need Pau healthy and they’ll get a shot at redemption against the Heat.”


Stern: “With the 29th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Houston Rockets select Jamie Garner of the University of Wisconsin.”

29. Houston: SF- Jamie Garner, Wisconsin

X: “This is a bit of a shock pick. Not that there was two Badgers picked in the first round, definitely not, but the two picked were going to be Moore and Woodson, not Garner. Garner was a role player for Wisconsin and was solid, if unspectacular. I don’t see how he fits in Houston, but they usually pick pretty well, so we shouldn’t doubt them.

The 2011 NBA Champion Miami Heat round out this year’s 1st Round as we cross back to David Stern.”


Stern: “With the 30th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the NBA Champion Miami Heat select Stuart Rush from Valparaiso University.”

30. Miami: PG- Stuart Rush, Valparaiso

Stephen E. Smith: “This is a throwaway pick, the Heat will be better in 2011/12 season so provided they can stay healthy, watch out NBA.”

X: “Throwaway or not, why not pick a guy who can make the team or better yet, help you win ball games? You need another point guard, why not take Marcel Moore?

That concludes this year’s 1st Round. Teams now have only two minutes to make their selections so it should move on a little quicker from here on out.”

[The X]

2011 OFF-SEASON RECAP - NBA DRAFT

2011 NBA DRAFT – 2nd ROUND

ESPN Narrator: With the 1st Round past out, let’s cross to NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver, who is handling the 2nd Round picks, commencing with the New Jersey Nets."



2nd ROUND

Silver: “With the 31st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the New Jersey Nets select Marcel Moore of the University of Wisconsin.”

31. New Jersey: PG- Marcel Moore, Wisconsin

X: “This pick has reportedly been conveyed to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal involving Darko Milicic. I wonder what Kahn is up to, it’s the second point guard he has snapped up tonight via trades. That makes four on the roster so far.

Moore was a solid 1st Round calibre talent and it is really surprising to see him drop to the 2nd Round. Perhaps this will work out better for him, as it often does for early 2nd Round draftees.”

Stephen E. Smith: “I think Kahn is trying to play small ball, play four point guards on the court at one time.”


32. Philadelphia: PF- Nicholas Olson, George Washington
33. Minnesota: SG- Marc Scott, Maryland
34. Toronto: SF- Giovenco Oliverio, Italy
36. New Jersey: SG- Ken Davidson, UNC
37. Indiana: SG- Malcolm Hoffman, Oregon State
38. New Orleans: PF- Wendell Stephens, Valparaiso


X: “It’s looks like Kahn is at again, it appears a trade is in place for the rights to Indiana’s 37th (rights to Oregon State’s Malcolm Hoffman) and 39th picks. We’ll bring more details as we have them. In the meantime, we’ll cross to Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver who has a special announcement before Indiana makes its pick on behalf of the active Minnesota Timberwolves.”


Silver: “We have a trade to announce. The Minnesota Timberwolves have traded Darko Milicic and a future 2nd Round Draft Pick in 2012 to the New Jersey Nets for the rights to Marcel Moore.”

TRADE:
Min receives: PG- Marcel Moore (#31)
NJN receives: C- Darko Milicic, 2012 2nd Rd Pick (Min)

Silver : “With the 39th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers select Benjamin Dragic from Miami University of Ohio.”

39. Indiana: PF- Benjamin Dragic, Miami (OH)

X: “This is actually a pick for the Timberwolves. We are not yet sure what or who they have traded to Indiana for the two 2nd Round picks.”

Stephen E. Smith: “At least they didn’t take another point guard.”


40. Phoenix: PF- Brent Hines, Colorado State
41. Washington: SF- Adrian Porter, Villanova
42. Utah: SG- Calvin Phelps, USC
43. Atlanta: SF- Damon McLeod, Ole Miss
44. Detroit: SG- Miguel Rodriguez, Puerto Rico
45. Sacramento: PG- Junior Smith, Purdue


Silver: “We have a trade to announce. The Indiana Pacers have traded the rights to Malcolm Hoffman and Benjamin Dragic to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Lazar Hayward.”

TRADE:
Ind receives: SF- Lazar Hayward
Min receives: SG- Malcolm Hoffman (#37), Benjamin Dragic (#39)

X: “So it’s official, the Minnesota Timberwolves deal seldomly used Lazar Hayward to the Pacers for two 2nd Round picks.

It looks like we’re going to cross to Stephen E., who has secured a couple of moments with Minnesota GM David Kahn to discuss the Timberwolves’ exciting Draft Night. Let’s cross to you Stephen E.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Thanks X. I’ve got Timberwolves GM David Kahn with me for a few quick questions.

Thanks for joining us David.”

David Kahn: “Thanks Stephen E.”

Stephen E. Smith: “You’ve made a lot of moves tonight David, tell us why you made them?”

David Kahn: “Some moves were already in motion before tonight, but most just came about through discussions with teams as the night wore along. You try to go into Draft Nights with an open night, because anything can and will happen, so you have be ready to act.”

Stephen E. Smith: “That’s all good and proper, but what do you say to your fans when they ask you why you traded away Wes Johnson and Darko (Milicic)?”

David Kahn: “It’s unfortunate that we had to part with those two players in particular, because they were both very popular within the organisation the greater Minneapolis region. Sometimes the only way to improve your team is to give up good pieces along the way, and that’s what happened.

When I look at what we’ve achieved tonight, I’m satisfied. We’ve added a great young player in Floyd Bradley from Maryland, who gives us added flexibility as he can play both guard positions. That’s something we didn’t have last year. Johan Svensson, everybody had him falling no further than the 3rd or 4th pick on their draft boards, so it was a pleasant surprise to see him still available. He helps us in a lot of ways and I think he adds an extra dimension in the frontcourt. The four young guys we got in the 2nd Round, we like each of them and they have all got a great shot on making the team.

Aside from the great young talent we added, we also added another asset in the Raptors’ 1st Round pick next year. Last but not least, I think we’ve created slightly more cap flexibility for this season and moving forward.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Thanks Dave, but I can’t help but wonder if some of these moves are going to have people at home scratching their heads. More specifically, what do you say to (Ricky) Rubio’s camp when they ask you why you traded for two more point guards?”

David Kahn: “It wasn’t our intention going into the night to add more than one point guard, but opportunities arose that the Minnesota Timberwolves’ organisation could not turn their back to.

We will obviously be talking to Ricky and his family privately. Rest assured that tonight doesn’t affect our vision we have for him being an integral part of our organisation moving forward.”

Stephen E. Smith: “One last question if I may. Will we see you move one or two of your point guards before opening night?.”

David Kahn: “You know Stephen E., I really like the guys on our roster, so it's hard to say what the future holds. You can never say never, but I like our guys so no plans to make any further moves.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Thanks David.”

David Kahn: “Thanks Stephen E., anytime.”

Stephen E. Smith: “Back across to you X.”

X: “Thanks Stephen E. Let’s cross back to the 2nd Round, which has continued to unfold, pretty uneventfully.”


46. Phoenix: PF- Clint Lowry, Utah
47. San Antonio: SF- Lou Winston, Purdue
48. Memphis: PF- Alvin Valentine, Iowa
49. Dallas: SF- Hakan Penbe, Turkey
50. New York: SG- Herbert Evans, UConn
51. Denver: SG- Jonathon Ferguson
52. Chicago: SG- Clark Cheeks, Texas
53. Orlando: PG- Bruno Petrovic, Croatia
54. Charlotte: PG- Bernard York, UNC
55. Portland: PG- Floyd Clark, Tulane
56. Boston: PF- Daryl Pearson, Kansas State
57. LA Lakers: PG- Alfred Fortson, Alabama
58. Houston: SF- Grant Cowens, Vanderbilt
59. LA Lakers: PG- Dorell Keefe, Iowa State
60. Miami: C: Scot Cameron, IPFW


X: “There we have it Stephen E., another Draft Night passes us by as Miami uses the final pick in the draft to add another six fouls in Scot Cameron of Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.

How did you see the night going Stephen E.? Who were your biggest winners, losers, biggest steals and biggest reach of the night?”

Stephen E. Smith: “Biggest winners were obviously the Atlanta Hawks, taking the best player available, then getting a 2nd Round steal in Ole Miss’ Damon McLeod (#43). Outside of McLeod, the steal of the Draft has to be UNC’s Lloyd Murphy (#23) to Denver. He’ll prove his doubters wrong, he’s a better player than Rickey Harper (#10).

Biggest losers on the night were the Bucks, who picked twenty small forwards to add to their three hundred in the stables. Good luck to them. The other big loser is anybody that plays point guard in Minnesota, because frankly, there is a whole lot of guys splitting 48 minutes.”

X: “The jury is definitely out on Minnesota’s night. I don’t think Kahn anticipated some of the curve balls that were thrown his way, thinking that Chuck Smith was it. Either way, I think the Wolves’ Draft Night will go down as a winner, they turned the 6th pick, the 33rd pick, Wesley Johnson, Darko Milicic, Anthony Tolliver and Lazar Hayward into Floyd Bradley (#3), Johan Svensson (#6), Marcel Moore (#31), Marc Scott (#33), Malcolm Hoffman (#37), Benjamin Dragic (#39) and Toronto’s 2012 1st Round Draft pick, which has the potential to be a high lottery selection.

I think we should not underrate Kahn moving the contracts of Darko Milicic and Anthony Tolliver, which should provide greater cap flexibility moving forward. They really need to move one or two of their point guards though.

I’d agree with you Stephen E. that the Hawks did well, but I think the biggest loser on the day was Toronto, giving up the point guard (Floyd Bradley) that they so desperately needed and their 1st Round pick from next year for Chuck Smith. Smith better be great or this trade will come back to haunt them.

Biggest steals, Svensson is solid at 6, as is Murphy at 23 and Moore at 31. Biggest reaches, probably Chicago taking NC State’s Elden Jennings at 22.”


ESPN Narrator: "Well that concludes the 2011 NBA Draft. I hope you enjoyed yourself."

[The X]

You wanted long & epic, you got it. This will likely be my last ever "lengthy" coverage of NBA Draft. 17 pages takes the cake. Was a Thierry-like effort that even Thierry would be proud of.

Just to set the record straight, I did not propose any trades, everything that happened was random. No trial runs. It was actually pretty epic, those first half a dozen picks. I really didn't know what to do trade wise, but I'm happy with decisions that were made

Anyways, enjoy. Time for some sleep

[Fresh8]

You know that I liked Chuck Smith and to see you get him in a trade was awesome... until he got traded.

Nice draft night for Wolves. Got a nice young squad now. I got a bit lost but looks like you're packed at the PG position?

Plus, 2K loves drafting me to Portland. I was hoping to drop to LA. Ah well! Awesome coverage btw! Love it.

[shadowgrin]

Gawd how I hate Stephen E. Smith. Annoying.
Except this:

Stephen E. Smith: “Guy looks like Ron Jeremy, classic stuff. Looks like women in Minnesota won’t go cold this winter.”

lol wut. Consider me an instant Svensson fan.

EDIT: And I thought no one could be more annoying than Stephen E. Smith. Witt is more annoying than him.
How could Kahn trade Darko, who has the combined talents of Vlade DIvac and Chris Webber?! Why Kahn?

KAAAAHN!!!

[puttincomputers]

Awesome writeup!

[Valor]

Loving the offseason coverage so far, took a glance and everything looks awesome

[Lamrock]

Enjoyable offseason coverage. Long, but entertaining. Stephen A is awesome. Not thrilled with all of your moves. I loved your move for Chuck Smith, but while its great you got the Craptors' next pick, swapping him for that PG doesn't make sense for either side. It's also very sad to see Darko go!

Can't wait to see what happens next.

[kibaxx7]

Was a Thierry-like effort that even Thierry would be proud of.

Loved the writeup man. Hopefully one day I can produce something like that. As shadow said, I'm on the Svensson bandwagon too.

[Grandmama Johnson]

Awesome coverage and a lot of draft day intrigue for the Wolves. It'll be interesting to see how you put everything together with this year's new personnel. As with any draft, the winners and losers can only be evaluated years down the line, but I gotta think you'll be a winner coming out of this one.

[The X]

Thanks guys.

I obviously need to move one of my point guards, that I know.

I knew Draft Night would be a little controversial, especially with the Darko deal.

Let this be known, if Perry had fallen to number 2 then I wouldn't have dealt him under any circumstances.

I think Svensson is going to be good, him dropping to 6 was a huge blessing, whilst Bradley needs a chance, otherwise he's Jerryd Bayless & I screwed up. Ahh well, at least I've got a scoring guard added.

I am gutted that the 76ers wanted me to take that horrific contract in a deal for Jonny Flynn. I didn't mind players in it, just the contract of Hawes

I only considered dealing Darko once I realised how good this Svensson kid is. The dominos fell. Had I not got Svensson at 6 then no way would I have had dealt Darko.

Keep the comments rolling

[hova-]

“Haha, if you thought you weren’t going to see Smith much on TV in Golden State, you’ll never see him in Minnesota. That’s about as close as you can get to Siberia without leaving the States’ borders.

Firstly, you’ve already got Evan Turner and secondly, you’ve already got Evan Turner.

“Guy looks like Ron Jeremy, classic stuff. Looks like women in Minnesota won’t go cold this winter.”

Wait, what’s this, Witt is actually in the crowd with his agent. He’s coming from the crowd, high fiving anybody who is willing, “MY TEAM BABY!!!”

Epic draft coverage. Loving this stuff

I don't know about your moves, man. You were piling up a lot of generics that I cannot really value. Good to see Floyd Bradley coming, but four PGs is too many. Hawes would not be too bad imho. He's soft, but could be a good addition to Love's rebounding. One shooter, one rebounder. Problem maybe that Love is not a good post scorer either.

Definitely one of the best, if not the best draft coverage I've read so far.

[Axel The Great]

Best NBA Draft coverage, in the history of the NLSC most likely. I loved Stephen E.'s comments about Milwaukee's 300 forwards, and America's Siberia, that gave me a good laugh.

Sad to see Darko go, but with him out of town, you're probably gonna need a sig update, X.

[Fresh8]

If definitely the best NBA Draft coverage. It's crazy to think how much time you spent on this. No wonder why you won't have beer with me and why your daughter is hungry!!!

[The X]

I'll get to individual comments later tonight since I'm just about to head off for business meeting down the Coast.

Don't forget Svensson guys, he could start straight away in the frontcourt.

hova, Hawes was being paid $11 mill over next 5 years, with a player option for 6th year. That would've crippled the franchise!!!

Sit, last half of coverage was done in last couple of nights when daughter wouldn't sleep. Just had to finish it off so it was off my plate

[Houndy]

Awesome coverage man

[Justine.]

Wow, excellent Draft coverage! Wish I could do something like that. Decent draft deals for Kahn I think

[The X]

You know that I liked Chuck Smith and to see you get him in a trade was awesome... until he got traded.

Nice draft night for Wolves. Got a nice young squad now. I got a bit lost but looks like you're packed at the PG position?

Plus, 2K loves drafting me to Portland. I was hoping to drop to LA. Ah well! Awesome coverage btw! Love it.

I knew people wouldn't like the trade of Chuck Smith. Not that ratings matter: Buchanan (80), Smith (71), Bradley (73), Svensson (77).

Gawd how I hate Stephen E. Smith. Annoying.
Except this:

Stephen E. Smith: “Guy looks like Ron Jeremy, classic stuff. Looks like women in Minnesota won’t go cold this winter.”

lol wut. Consider me an instant Svensson fan.

EDIT: And I thought no one could be more annoying than Stephen E. Smith. Witt is more annoying than him.
How could Kahn trade Darko, who has the combined talents of Vlade DIvac and Chris Webber?! Why Kahn?

KAAAAHN!!!

Yep, I knew the Darko trade would hurt too. But yes, Svensson is good.

Awesome writeup!

Loving the offseason coverage so far, took a glance and everything looks awesome

Awesome coverage man

Cheers guys

Enjoyable offseason coverage. Long, but entertaining. Stephen A is awesome. Not thrilled with all of your moves. I loved your move for Chuck Smith, but while its great you got the Craptors' next pick, swapping him for that PG doesn't make sense for either side. It's also very sad to see Darko go!

Can't wait to see what happens next.

I thought it was Kahn-like to make the Raptors deal and X-like to make the Darko deal

As for Raptors, wouldn't be right not having Jack start. That being said, I wouldn't have offered them that deal, they came forward with the offer. For all I know they might end up winning on it.

Was a Thierry-like effort that even Thierry would be proud of.

Loved the writeup man. Hopefully one day I can produce something like that. As shadow said, I'm on the Svensson bandwagon too.

Glad to see another Svensson follower

Btw, I wouldn't suggest doing a write-off this long, it's crazy. Do something more creative presentation-wise

Awesome coverage and a lot of draft day intrigue for the Wolves. It'll be interesting to see how you put everything together with this year's new personnel. As with any draft, the winners and losers can only be evaluated years down the line, but I gotta think you'll be a winner coming out of this one.

Definitely a lot intrigue. I'm not quite sure how all the new personnel fit together, plus there's free agency period, which I haven't even covered yet

“Haha, if you thought you weren’t going to see Smith much on TV in Golden State, you’ll never see him in Minnesota. That’s about as close as you can get to Siberia without leaving the States’ borders.

Firstly, you’ve already got Evan Turner and secondly, you’ve already got Evan Turner.

“Guy looks like Ron Jeremy, classic stuff. Looks like women in Minnesota won’t go cold this winter.”

Wait, what’s this, Witt is actually in the crowd with his agent. He’s coming from the crowd, high fiving anybody who is willing, “MY TEAM BABY!!!”

Epic draft coverage. Loving this stuff

I don't know about your moves, man. You were piling up a lot of generics that I cannot really value. Good to see Floyd Bradley coming, but four PGs is too many. Hawes would not be too bad imho. He's soft, but could be a good addition to Love's rebounding. One shooter, one rebounder. Problem maybe that Love is not a good post scorer either.

Definitely one of the best, if not the best draft coverage I've read so far.

Cheers. I admit four point guards are too many. I think Flynn is definitely likely maybe out the door

As mentioned before, Hawes had a 5 year, $56 million deal with a player option for sixth year. If it was half that amount or shorter in length then I may have considered, but no. 2k11 seems to overpay centres ridiculously and wing players get shafted.

Best NBA Draft coverage, in the history of the NLSC most likely. I loved Stephen E.'s comments about Milwaukee's 300 forwards, and America's Siberia, that gave me a good laugh.

Sad to see Darko go, but with him out of town, you're probably gonna need a sig update, X.

Cheers, and don't worry, no need to start editing sig yet

If definitely the best NBA Draft coverage. It's crazy to think how much time you spent on this. No wonder why you won't have beer with me and why your daughter is hungry!!!

Yep, it took a shite load of time. Admittedly, it wasn't as bad as some might think since the core of the template was sitting in my Live '05 Bobcats Dynasty. I just lifted that, but obviously had to put in all comments and stuff.

Wow, excellent Draft coverage! Wish I could do something like that. Decent draft deals for Kahn I think

Cheers, you do great stuff. I think rather than aspiring to do something like this, concentrate on parts of Association/NBA that you enjoy. Lamrock and Sit know well that I always focus more in on off-season than even regular season, that's just what I prefer. And I love NBA Draft, my favourite NBA day of the year, in which I often take a day off work to watch


Cheers guys for the kudos. Glad you appreciated, makes it worthwhile putting in the time.

[Lamrock]

My only problem with Svensson is that he's a power forward. If he and Love are your front court, opposing teams may walk all over you guys.