OKC: Part III - Tough ending in Milwaukee

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Re: OKC: Part III - End of season summary + award winners

Postby Andrew on Mon Dec 16, 2019 7:33 pm

Ibaka getting Sixth Man is interesting. I've found that award has often been a bit sketchy in its selection logic, going back to Franchise in NBA Live. Adams surely would've been on an All-Defense team if not for his injury.
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Re: OKC: Part III - End of season summary + award winners

Postby kibaxx7 on Tue Dec 17, 2019 4:25 am

Huge years by Ja and Zion. Good luck in the lottery. :cheeky:
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Re: OKC: Part III - End of season summary + award winners

Postby Phil89 on Tue Dec 17, 2019 2:11 pm

Andrew wrote:Ibaka getting Sixth Man is interesting. I've found that award has often been a bit sketchy in its selection logic, going back to Franchise in NBA Live. Adams surely would've been on an All-Defense team if not for his injury.

If I hadn't traded Schroder and Noel, one of them would have probably won the award. They both became starters with their new teams and I guess lost eligibility.

At least in this game you can edit the award winners, if necessary. I had a quick look, but everything seemed pretty spot on.

Adams had an outside chance, but Embiid and Gobert were always going to be hard to beat for those spots. Perhaps next season he can focus more on defense if he has less offensive load to carry.

spiderxx7 wrote:Huge years by Ja and Zion. Good luck in the lottery. :cheeky:

Zion was insane. I'm hoping the guy that I draft can do similar next season (Y)
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Re: OKC: Part III - End of season summary + award winners

Postby Phil89 on Wed Dec 18, 2019 3:06 pm

31/5/20

2020 NBA Finals: Sixers ready to defend their title, whilst LeBron looks to strengthen his legacy

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And then there were two...

After 1,311 regular season and playoff games, the climax to the 2019-20 NBA season will be contested by the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers.


On one side, you have a 76ers team led by young stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. Last year they ended the dynasty of the Golden State Warriors last season and are hungry to defend their title.

On the other side are the reawakened giants from Los Angeles. The Lakers, led by superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, have fought their way back to the big stage after several years out of the spotlight.

This will be the 32nd NBA Finals appearance for the Lakers and their first since 2010. A win here would see them equal Boston with a record-tying 17th championship. Philadelphia's second trip to the NBA Finals in as many years will be their 10th overall. They have 4 titles.


We all the know the narrative the surrounds LeBron James when it comes to his legacy and ranking him against all the former greats of the game. So far in his career he has won three titles from his nine trips to the NBA Finals. It's not a great record, but he has a chance to improve it. He can got outright second in most Finals MVP awards if he wins his fourth.

LeBron also has a chance to join John Salley and Robert Horry as the only players to have won NBA titles with three different teams.


The trade saga surrounding the Lakers and Anthony Davis turned into a bit of a circus last season. But Rob Pelinka bided his time and eventually got his man during the off-season. The move cost the Lakers a lot of assets, but right at this moment it looks to have been completely worth it. Obviously another trophy to put in the cabinet will help to fully vindicate it.


For Philadelphia, this series will be about proving to everyone that last year wasn't a fluke. They topped he eastern conference standings this season and never trailed in any of the three playoff series whilst getting here.

Many people couldn't see them making it back to this stage after losing Jimmy Butler last off-season. But their management worked hard to retain Tobias Harris and also signed all-star big man Al Horford. It was a big recovery from a potentially catastrophe and it has worked out brilliantly in the long run.


Whilst they do have a strong team-first culture and many contributors, their success or failure against the Lakers in this series will largely rest on the shoulders of star big man Joel Embiid. If he is able to dominate against JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard, then it would go a long way to a 76ers triumph.

Another interesting match-up will be between LeBron and Ben Simmons; the student against the master. LeBron took Simmons under his wing when he entered the league and has been a mentor for him over the past few years. Now they have to face each other on the court and personal feelings will have to be set aside.

Some people questioned the signing of 34-year-old Al Horford in the off-season. But now he will play a vital role in trying to slow down superstar Lakers big man Anthony Davis.






First Round Results

Game 1
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Game 2
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Game 3
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Game 4
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Game 5
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Game 6
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Game 7
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Conference Semi Finals Results

Game 1
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Game 2
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Game 3
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Game 4
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Game 5
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Game 6
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Game 7
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Conference Finals Results

Game 1
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Game 2
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Game 3
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Game 4
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Game 5
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Game 6
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Game 7
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Re: OKC: Part III - NBA Finals preview: Lakers vs 76ers

Postby Andrew on Wed Dec 18, 2019 8:47 pm

Go 76ers!
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Re: OKC: Part III - NBA Finals preview: Lakers vs 76ers

Postby Phil89 on Fri Dec 20, 2019 2:08 pm

19/6/20

Lakers defeat defending champions Philadelphia in thrilling 7-game finals series

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Game 1

Philadelphia 76ers [12-3] vs Los Angeles Lakers [12-5]

Sixers withstand late Lakers run to take opening game

PHI | 25 | 35 | 32 | 20 | 112 |
LAL | 32 | 19 | 24 | 32 | 107 |

Player of the Game: LeBron James
(30pts, 5reb, 12ast, 1stl)

(12-21 FG, 2-5 3PT, 4-8 FT)


The series started well for the 76ers, with a hard-fought 112-107 win in game one in front of their vocal fans at Wells Fargo Center. They overcame a nervous start to outscore the Lakers 35-19 in the second quarter. A last quarter push by the Lakers gave the home fans a scare, but their team held on to claim victory.

Tobias Harris led the way with 28 points, but it was Joel Embiid who dominated despite a poor shooting night, with 26 points and 16 rebounds. Ben Simmons flirted with a triple-double with 14 points, 13 rebounds and 7 assists.

LeBron James naturally led the Lakers with 30 points and 12 assists, whilst Anthony Davis made the most of his first ever NBA Finals appearance by finishing with 31 points and 11 rebounds.

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Game 2

Philadelphia 76ers [13-3] vs Los Angeles Lakers [12-6]

Another tight win gives Sixers 2-0 lead as series heads to Los Angeles

PHI | 28 | 32 | 28 | 24 | 112 |
LAL | 21 | 26 | 42 | 20 | 109 |

Player of the Game: Ben Simmons
(29pts, 9reb, 9ast, 3stl, 2blk)

(11-17 FG, 7-12 FT)


Game two started differently, with the 76ers taking command in the first half. They led 60-47 at the half, but then LeBron spearheaded a 42-28 third quarter run for the Lakers, who then headed into the last quarter ahead one a single point. The home crowd willed their team home though and the 76ers came out on top 112-109.

Ben Simmons was the star for the home team this time with 29 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists on the night. Al Horford was vital as well and finished with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists.

Anthony Davis had 35 points and 15 rebounds in a losing effort. LeBron ended up with a slightly subdued 25 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

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Game 3

Los Angeles Lakers [12-7] vs Philadelphia 76ers [14-3]

LeBron carries Lakers to vital game three win

LAL | 20 | 31 | 40 | 31 | 122 |
PHI | 19 | 33 | 21 | 43 | 116 |

Player of the Game: LeBron James
(36pts, 8reb, 8ast, 5stl, 1blk)

(12-18 FG, 0-1 3PT, 14-18 FT)


As the series headed to Los Angeles for game three, the Lakers knew that they had to get a win on the board or their title dreams would be all but over. Enter LeBron James. His 38 point, 8 rebound, 8 assist and 5 steal night inspired his team to a 122-116 win. Even though the 76ers came hard down the stretch, the Lakers held on and grabbed a vital win.

Anthony Davis had 26 points, 12 rebounds ad 5 blocks and was very strong defensively. He made Al Horford virtually non-existent on the offensive end all night.

Joel Embiid finished with 39 points, 15 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks in a valiant losing effort. Ben Simmons, Al Horford and Josh Richardson all fouled out of the game in the fourth quarter, which put a halt to their comeback.

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Game 4

Los Angeles Lakers [13-7] vs Philadelphia 76ers [14-4]

Efficient performance from LeBron helps Lakers level series at 2-2

LAL | 30 | 24 | 28 | 36 | 118 |
PHI | 18 | 19 | 40 | 20 | 197 |

Player of the Game: LeBron James
(36pts, 6reb, 10ast, 1stl)

(15-22 FG, 3-6 3PT, 3-4 FT)


Game four a blow-out compared to five of the seven other games. The Lakers levelled the series at 2-2 thanks to a comfortable 116-97 victory. They ran out to a 54-37 half-time lead before the 76ers cut it to a 5-point margin with a quarter left to play. But the Lakers once again piled on the points and eventually won by 21 points.

LeBron was brilliant once again, finishing with 36 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. Anthony Davis was the Robin to LeBron's Batman as he had 21 points and 15 rebounds.

Ben Simmons had 30 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists as he tried to compensate for Embiid being in foul trouble all game. Embiid and Josh Richardson both fouled out early in the fourth quarter.

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Game 5

Philadelphia 76ers [14-5] vs Los Angeles Lakers [14-7]

Crucial home win in game 5 puts Sixers on the brink of back-to-back titles

PHI | 26 | 24 | 35 | 30 | 115 |
LAL | 23 | 27 | 31 | 30 | 111 |

Player of the Game: Anthony Davis
(42pts, 13reb, 1ast, 1stl, 2blk)

(15-23 FG, 0-1 3PT, 12-13 FT)


Momentum swung back the other way in game five. The 76ers held on to win 115-111, despite stars Embiid and Simmons both fouling out. The contest was close all night and Trey Burke emerged as an unlikely hero for the home team. He scored 21 points off the bench as he filled in for Simmons.

Anthony Davis was the most dominant player on the court, finishing with 42 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks. LeBron didn't have a great scoring night, but he did put on a clinic for how to run an offense. He had 16 points, 6 rebounds and 18 assists.

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Game 6

Los Angeles Lakers [14-8] vs Philadelphia 76ers [15-5]

LeBron masterclass keeps the Lakers alive as the series heads to decisive game 7 in Philly

LAL | 26 | 25 | 31 | 28 | 110 |
PHI | 26 | 26 | 28 | 15 | 195 |

Player of the Game: LeBron James
(44pts, 10reb, 6ast, 2blk)

(17-29 FG, 3-7 3PT, 7-9 FT)


On the brink of elimination, the Lakers dug deep for game six and ran out 110-95 winners. LeBron had one of the best games of his career, which is saying something. He had 44 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 blocks. In a career full of iconic performances, this was one of the most impressive, given the situation.

Anthony Davis contributed 21 points, 20 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocks in a performance that normally would have taken the headlines. He battled Joel Embiid all night in the paint, with Embiid having up 25 points, 24 rebounds and 5 blocks himself.

Ben Simmons and Tobias Harris both fouled out for the 76ers, which ultimately prevented them from competing in the fourth quarter.

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Game 7

Philadelphia 76ers [15-6] vs Los Angeles Lakers [15-8]

Dramatic last-second basket from LeBron seals Lakers' 17th championship!

PHI | 26 | 24 | 31 | 34 | 115 |
LAL | 40 | 19 | 25 | 33 | 117 |

Player of the Game: Anthony Davis
(30pts, 11reb, 8ast, 3stl, 3blk)

(13-26 FG, 0-4 3PT, 6-8 FT)


Game seven will go down in NBA history as one of the best finishes ever. It was on par with game six from 1998.

The Lakers started on fire and really took the home crowd out of game by leading 40-26 after the first quarter. Philadelphia slowly fought their way back over the next two quarters and eventually tied things up at 101-101 midway through the fourth quarter.

Understandably for the occasion, the game was a tense affair. Both Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis picked up their fifth fouls and sat out most of the fourth quarter. LeBron was at the heart of everything late on for the Lakers and it was he who took charge in the biggest moment. The scores were tied 115-115 with 3.6 seconds left. The Lakers were in-bounding from the sideline.

Joel Embiid did his best to deny Anthony Davis from getting the ball into play, but Davis managed to find LeBron in the corner. Despite being double-teamed by Tobias Harris and Ben Simmons, LeBron rose up with under a second left and heaved up a shot. It went down simultaneous to the buzzer and you could feel the energy leave the building as the home crowd realised that they had just lost the title.

The Lakers won 117-115 and completed their fight back from 0-2 and 2-3 down in the series to become NBA champions.

LeBron ran to mid-court where he collapsed to the ground from the emotion of the occasion, as well as the weight of half a dozen of his teammates jumping on top of him. It was his Jordan moment, his "shot" that would be replayed millions of times around the world for the rest of his life.

He finished the game with 33 points, 8 rebounds and 14 assists. Anthony Davis again contributed vital numbers, with 30 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocks despite being in foul trouble for most of the game.

Joel Embiid was left in tears after the game. He had given everything in a 40 point, 11 rebound and 3 block effort. Ben Simmons added a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 14 assists. Al Horford also dealt with foul trouble, but was held scoreless in the most important game of his career. That will haunt him over the Summer.

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2020 Finals MVP

LeBron James - Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James was named as the Finals MVP for the fourth time in his career after averaging 31 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists over the seven games. His last-second heroics in game seven also earned him votes, no doubt.

Anthony Davis was brilliant in his first even Finals appearance. He averaged 29 points, 14 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. The 76ers just had no answer for him in the paint.

For the losing team Joel Embiid (24p/13r/2b) and Ben Simmons (17p/8r/7a) led the way as expected. If not for foul trouble at key times, they may have led their team to victory before the series reached game seven.

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Re: OKC: Part III - Thrilling end to NBA Finals

Postby Andrew on Fri Dec 20, 2019 10:03 pm

I jinxed them. :lol:
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Re: OKC: Part III - Thrilling end to NBA Finals

Postby kibaxx7 on Fri Dec 20, 2019 11:24 pm

What a series for Bron and Brow.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Thrilling end to NBA Finals

Postby Phil89 on Sat Dec 21, 2019 3:37 pm

Andrew wrote:I jinxed them. :lol:

To be fair, they probably weren't favourites to win the series and it did go down to literally the final seconds of game 7. So I think you're off the hook :wink:

spiderxx7 wrote:What a series for Bron and Brow.

The moves to get them really paid off for the Lakers. They will probably be hard to beat next season as well, as long as LeBron doesn't fall off a cliff due to age.


Now for the fun stuff. It's been a while since I've had to worry about the draft lottery draw. Fingers crossed (Y)
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Re: OKC: Part III - Thrilling end to NBA Finals

Postby Phil89 on Sun Dec 22, 2019 3:43 pm

3/7/20

Carter and Gasol headline 2020 NBA Retirements

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Vince Carter may have never won a championship during his NBA career, but he leaves the game as the longest-tenured player ever. He lasted an incredible 22 seasons and 1,480 games in total, which puts him fifth all-time for games played in league history. He was always a fan favourite thanks to his high-flying athletic dunking.

Former NBA champions Pau Gasol, Udonis Haslem, JR Smith and Mario Chalmers are also calling time on their careers.

Miami announced that they would be retiring Wade's number 3 jersey, whilst San Antonio will do the same with the jerseys of team stalwarts Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. Both players were key figures in the Spurs championship wins in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014.

Dwyane Wade, Vince Carter and Pau Gasol will all inducted into the Hall of Fame for their outstanding careers.



2020 Notable Retirements


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Hall of Fame Inductees Stats


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Jersey Retirements


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Re: OKC: Part III - Carter and Gasol amongst 2020 retirements

Postby [Hyperize] on Sun Dec 22, 2019 7:17 pm

2K's been retiring Vince Carter for about 5 years now. :lol:
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Re: OKC: Part III - Carter and Gasol amongst 2020 retirements

Postby Andrew on Sun Dec 22, 2019 10:55 pm

I simmed through to today in NBA Live 2000 for Wayback Wednesday back in August. He didn't quite last through to 2020, but he was one of the last real players left in the league, and stuck around for quite a while.

It's also weird to note that as in real life, his career average has dropped to 17 ppg; respectable, but far below his output in his prime.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Carter and Gasol amongst 2020 retirements

Postby Phil89 on Tue Dec 24, 2019 4:22 pm

7/7/20

Bulls and Thunder make coaching changes ahead of the 2020-21 NBA season

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With the 2019-20 NBA season officially over, two teams have decided to shake up their coaching ranks.


Chicago fired Jim Boylen after he only led them to 26 wins in his first full season in charge. He had frustrated fans by failing to properly utilise their young players, such as Lauri Markkanen and Wendell Carter Jr.

The Bulls hired former Cleveland head coach Tyronn Lue on a 3-year deal to replace him. Lue guided the Cavaliers to a breakthrough championship win in 2016 and had spent last season as an assistant to Doc Rivers at the Clippers.


Oklahoma City also decided to make a change. Billy Donovan, the winner of the 2018-19 Coach of the Year award, had come to the end of his contract and general manager Sam Presti decided not to offer him a new deal.

Presti then took a bit of a gamble with Donovan's replacement. He hired highly-rated Denver assistant Jordi Fernandez on a 3-year deal. The Spaniard started out as a development coach in Cleveland before taking charge of their G-League Affiliate in Canton, Ohio. He has spent the past few seasons in Denver as a senior assistant with the Nuggets.

Players who have worked with Fernandez speak very highly of him and no doubt his background in player development attracted Presti, given the rebuild his team are currently going through. Fernandez has a college degree in sports sciences, and is close to earning his PhD in sports psychology.

Assistant coaches aren't always successful when making the leap to the main job, but Fernandez looks like a shrewd signing for the Thunder.


There were rumours that Washington head coach Scott Brooks was in danger of losing his job, but it seems that he was given a pass due to the circumstances of star player John Wall missing the entire season.





Coaching changes

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Re: OKC: Part III - Bulls and Thunder hire new head coaches

Postby Andrew on Tue Dec 24, 2019 11:34 pm

Interesting moves. I won't be sorry to see Boylen move on in real life.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Bulls and Thunder hire new head coaches

Postby Phil89 on Thu Dec 26, 2019 12:43 pm

6/7/20

2020 Draft Lottery & Draft Preview

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It's that time of the year again. When fans of struggling teams turn their attention to the NBA draft and build up hope for the future, false or otherwise.

Washington are looking to secure their fifth number one overall pick in franchise history and first since 2010, when they selected all-star John Wall. Fittingly, Wall is representing the Wizards at the lottery draw.

Oklahoma City have never had the top selection in the draft and haven't been this high in the order since that wonderful three-year stretch between 2007 and 2009, when they drafted Kevin Durant (#2), Russell Westbrook (#4) and James Harden (#3) in consecutive drafts. Exciting youngster Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is representing the Thunder.

Chicago are the third team with a good chance at landing the top pick. If they were to get the number one pick it would be the franchise's third, after Elton Brand (1999) and Derrick Rose (2008). Zach LaVine is representing the Bulls.

A surprise attendee is Charlotte Hornets majority owner Michael Jordan. His team have the fourth-best odds of securing the top pick and clearly he feels he can bring some luck their way.


2020 Lottery Odds

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2020 Lottery Draw Results

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Michael Jordan is a born winner! His Hornets have inexplicably risen up the order, from fourth to first. It's only their second ever first overall pick after Larry Johnson in 1991.

Now Mitch Kupchak and his team have to choose between dominant Memphis big man James Wiseman and explosive Georgia wing Anthony Edwards. Those two are the obvious stand-outs in this draft class and are both tipped to become star players in the future.

Usually you wouldn't pick for needs this high in the draft, but the difference in talent and potential between Wiseman and Edwards seems to be minimal. So it would probably make sense for the Hornets to take Wiseman, given that they are so high on Malik Monk. The number 11 pick from 2017 increased his scoring average from 8 points per game to 22 points per game last season.


Despite all the chaos happening around them, Oklahoma City managed to hold on to the second pick. Rumours suggest that Edwards is their top target, but you would imagine that they would be just as happy taking whichever of the top two that Charlotte leaves on the board.

Getting Edwards would be great because putting him alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would give them a very promising backcourt pairing for the future. If they had to take Wiseman it would probably mean the end of Steven Adams' time with the team.

Another possibility if they miss out on Edwards would be trading down the order and acquiring future assets. It would take a brave GM to pass on Wiseman though.


Dallas were the other big risers in the draw. They went from seventh to third thanks to some friendly ping-pong balls. The look on owner Mark Cuban's face was even smugger than usual as a result.

This position will allow them to get first shot at one of the top points guards in the draft. They could go for Cole Anthony, LaMelo Ball or RJ Hampton to add some more offensive class to their team alongside Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis.

Suddenly the Mavericks are developing into a a team that could be real threat in the western conference in the next few years.


Naturally, when teams rise up the order there will be those who fall. The biggest losers this year were the Wizards, who fell from first to fourth and lost out on James Wiseman. He would have been a brilliant complementary piece alongside all-star backcourt duo John Wall and Bradley Beal.

Chicago were the other team to drop multiple places, falling from third to fifth. This might not be too much of an issue for them though as the players they were looking at will probably still be available to them.



In other news, NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced that the draft age rules are to be changed starting next season. Players aged 18 or older will now eligible to enter the draft.







2020 Full Draft Order

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2020 Team Picks Summary

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NBA.com Final Mock - First Round

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Re: OKC: Part III - Bulls and Thunder hire new head coaches

Postby Phil89 on Thu Dec 26, 2019 12:50 pm

Andrew wrote:Interesting moves. I won't be sorry to see Boylen move on in real life.

The coaching pool isn't very big in this game. I didn't see any exciting options to replace Donovan, so I had to get creative. I read some "future NBA coaches" articles and Fernandez seemed highly rated.

Lue seemed like the best available option to lead the Bulls back to the playoffs.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Draft Lottery: Who has the luck this year?

Postby Andrew on Thu Dec 26, 2019 8:29 pm

My plan is to overwrite one of the generic coaches with myself when I start a MyLEAGUE. I also opted for Lue in a game (and thread) that ultimately didn't get off the ground for similar reasons you did, but in hindsight I should've just added myself.

Good to see that you didn't drop out of second place. Should hopefully be a strong draft for you.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Draft Lottery: Who has the luck this year?

Postby Phil89 on Fri Dec 27, 2019 12:37 pm

It would be cool if you could download coach DNA, like you can with players.


I got a bit worried when both the Mavericks and then the Hornets both jumped into the top 3. Luckily we avoided all the carnage and will now get one of the top two players. Poor Wizards :doh:

James Wiseman looks like a left-handed Karl-Anthony Towns/DeAndre Ayton type, whilst Anthony Edwards seems to be a hybrid of Donovan Mitchell/Victor Oladipo. I'll be thrilled with whichever Charlotte leave me with.

I'll look to turn picks 20 and 26 into a higher pick. But if I can't find a suitable deal, I'll just use them and try to draft a couple of late-first-round gems.
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Re: OKC: Part III - Draft Lottery: Who has the luck this year?

Postby Phil89 on Sat Dec 28, 2019 1:45 pm

17/7/20

2020 NBA Draft - First Round

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Here comes NBA commissioner Adam Silver to begin proceedings.

"I'd like to welcome everyone to the 2020 NBA draft, including the young men sitting in this room hoping to see their dreams come true today, but also the millions watching this broadcast live around the world."

He then heads backstage as the clock starts ticking down for the Charlotte Hornets. Who will they pick at number one, James Wiseman or Anthony Edwards?



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Pick 1
Image Charlotte Hornets

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Charlotte are up first and have used almost all of their allotted five minutes to make their selection. But here comes commissioner Silver...

"With the first pick of the 2020 NBA draft, the Charlotte hornets select..."

"James Wiseman, from the university of Memphis!"


So the Hornets go with the big man from Memphis. Wiseman has been touted as a future number one pick since high school and that has just become reality. He looks pretty happy for someone who just got told they would be playing for the Hornets.

The seven-foot tall left-hander is a modern day big man in the same mould as Anthony Davis and DeAndre Ayton. He has a big frame and long arms, so when he puts on some more muscle he will be unstoppable in the paint. Good agility for his size will allow him to punish defenders if they give him too much space.

He has a promising mid-range game, which he has been slowly improving during his college play. Perhaps his biggest strength is his rebounding. He led all college players in that statistic this season with 14.5 per game.

Charlotte must have ultimately decided that Wiseman was the right choice instead of Edwards because they already have Malik Monk at shooting guard. He just averaged 22 points per game and is emerging as an elite scorer. The coaching staff will be hoping the pair can form a strong partnership, much like Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton have in Phoenix.

Number twelve pick from last season PJ Washington will be happy to have a talented frontcourt partner after playing a season alongside Cody Zeller.

Hornets fans can relax now as their team doesn't pick again until #54 and #57.


2019-20 Stats: 27.1 PPG - 14.5 RPG - 3.5 APG - 1.0 SPG - 3.9 BPG

NBA Comparison: Anthony Davis


Fan Opinion: "I'm really happy with this. Big men are starting to dominate the league again and this kid will be one of the best soon enough!"



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Pick 2
Image Oklahoma City Thunder

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To the surprise of absolutely no one, the Oklahoma City Thunder use the the second pick to select Georgia shooting guard Anthony Edwards.

Sam Presti will be thrilled at being able to land the explosive wing prospect, after the Hornets opted for James Wiseman with the first pick. He may have just drafted a long-awaited replacement for James Harden. Edwards is the consensus 'can't miss' prospect in this draft.

He proved why he was tipped as a potential number one pick during his time at Georgia. He can score in the paint, from the mid-range and also from beyond the perimeter efficiently. Once he gets in a scoring rhythm it is almost impossible to stop him. Georgia came out on top in so many games this season thanks to his heroics late in tight contests.

He joins a Thunder team that has gone from a 65-win season and a trip to the conference finals to a team that won only 26 games and finished bottom of the western conference, largely thanks to the loss of superstars Russell Westbrook and Paul George last off-season.

Promising point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was acquired in the trade which sent Paul George to the Clippers and he showed glimpses that he has the talent to be an all-star one day. His 50 points and 12 assists against the Warriors in a double-overtime classic was an amazing effort and showed just what he is capable of.

Now he will be paired with Edwards in the backcourt, although Chris Paul could still retain his starting role next season if he remains with the team.

Presti likely won't acknowledge it, but this team all of a sudden has a similar vibe to what it did a decade ago when three young stars roamed the court in Thunder jerseys. OKC fans won't have to cry themselves to sleep every night whilst clutching their Russell Westbrook body pillows any longer.


The Thunder still have picks #20 and #26 in the first round to come. Will Presti package them together to move up the order or go with quantity over quality? We'll have to wait and see.


2019-20 Stats: 27.3 PPG - 6.2 RPG - 5.5 APG - 2.0 SPG - 1.3 BPG

NBA Comparison: Donovan Mitchell


Fan Opinion: "I love it! This kid is the real deal. Edwards and SGA are gonna be like D-Wade and Penny someday."



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Pick 3
Image Dallas Mavericks

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The Dallas Mavericks were the big winners in the draft lottery draw, and now they use the third overall pick to select LaMelo Ball. The top-rated point guard in this class spent the year playing for the Illawarra Hawks in Australia.

Ball looks to be one of the best playmakers to enter the league in the past decade or so. His passing skill and his size makes him similar to Ben Simmons, although he has a more expansive offensive game than Simmons.

Despite people having questioned his outside shooting during his time in Australia, Ball was the stand-out shooter during the recent draft combine. He hit more three pointers from NBA range than any other player. This bodes well for the future and shows that he has multiple weapons in his offensive arsenal.

He will form one of the most intriguing young trios in the league with the Mavericks, alongside Slovenian sensation Luka Doncic and lanky Latvian unicorn Kristaps Porzingis. If those three guys figure out a way to play together that allows all of them to play up to their potential, it will be ridiculously hard for opposing teams to stop them.

One negative about drafting Ball is having to deal with his controversial family. The relationship between Ball's outspoken father and Mavericks team owner Mark Cuban could be interesting, to say the least.


2019-20 Stats: 20.7 PPG - 6.2 RPG - 8.4 APG - 1.7 SPG - 0.6 BPG

NBA Comparison: Penny Hardaway


Fan Opinion: "This guy has real talent. I just hope his family doesn't bring drama to the team off the court."



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Pick 4
Image Washington Wizards

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The Wizards were supposed to be drafting with the first pick, but a cruel lottery draw demoted them to fourth. As consolation they select Washington big man Isaiah Stewart.

Stewart is a powerhouse big man who is comfortable playing at either center or power forward. He is a strong rebounder thanks to his positional sense and big frame. Once he gets into position for a rebound he is very hard to move due to his strength.

He will likely be a starter for the Wizards from day one and partner Thomas Bryant in their frontcourt. With pick 9 from last year Rui Hachimura looking more settled with a season of NBA basketball under his belt and all-star John Wall returning after missing the entire season because of an Achilles injury, the Wizards have reason to be optimistic.

It's hard to see them having another poor season if Wall stays healthy and all-star Bradley Beal keeps his scoring production at a high level. Keep an eye on Stewart as an outside shot at Rookie of the Year.


2019-20 Stats: 23.4 PPG - 11.5 RPG - 2.9 APG - 1.1 SPG - 2.9 BPG

NBA Comparison: Zach Randolph


Fan Opinion: "I'm really bummed that we missed out on Wiseman. Stewart is good, but he doesn't have the same ceiling."



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WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!

Chicago is sending pick 5 to Orlando in exchange for pick 9, a 2021 first round pick (top 3 protected) and cash considerations ($2m).


Very interesting move by the Bulls. They used pick 7 on Coby White last year, so it's understandable that they didn't want to take either Cole Anthony or RJ Hampton here. They probably felt it was too soon to take the players they are interested in, so they are comfortable sliding down to pick 9 in the knowledge that their targets will most likely still be on the board.

That Orlando pick for next year could be a top asset to have. The 2021 draft is predicted to be deeper than this year and the Magic aren't exactly a stable team. It could see the Bulls with two top 10 picks next year.


The Magic clearly have a target in mind that they feel would have been taken before they got to pick at number nine. Rumour has it that they were very impressed by point guards Cole Anthony and RJ Hampton during their pre-draft workouts. We all know that the point guard position has been a weakness for them over the last decade and despite promising signs from former number one pick Markelle Fultz, his injury history makes it hard to build a team around.



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Pick 5
Image Orlando Magic

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And as expected the Magic select North Carolina point guard Cole Anthony at number five. They were desperate to land him and paid the price to move up the order to get it done.

The son of former NBA player and TV analyst Greg Anthony, Cole has been coached to become a basketball player since his childhood. He averaged a triple-double during his high school career and was one of the top ranked players in this draft class when he entered college.

He is an above-average athlete, with a particular strength being his lightning speed. It allows him to get wherever he wants on offense and get the shot that he wants. His high basketball IQ also allows him to always makes the right play and make his teammates better.

The Magic have had a lot of high-end picks over the last few years. Jonathan Isaac and Mo Bamba most recently, whilst they also traded in 2017 first overall pick Markelle Fultz from Philadelphia. These young players are yet to find their own footing in the league yet, so forming a cohesive unit together could still be a fair way off.

Hopefully Anthony can be the catalyst that gets this young team finally playing some good basketball. Their fans are sure hoping so.


2019-20 Stats: 19.2 PPG - 4.7 RPG - 7.5 APG - 3.2 SPG - 0.4 BPG

NBA Comparison: Kyrie Irving


Fan Opinion: "This was a bold move and I think it will pay off. I always thought this guy was underrated by the media."



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Pick 6
Image Memphis Grizzlies

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The Memphis Grizzlies enter the draft at pick number six and they choose to take Isaiah Stewart's Washington teammate, Jaden McDaniels.

In probably a smart move, the Grizzlies went for need instead of taking the best player available. No doubt they would have taken RJ Hampton if they didn't already have a great young point guard in Ja Morant on their team, who they took at pick two last year. But it was unlikely that those two could play together on the same team, so they went for a wing scorer.

McDaniels is quite similar to Brandon Ingram in that he has great size and length, but really needs to hit the gym to add muscle to his frame. He has shown glimpses of elite scoring ability and no doubt that was what the Grizzlies liked about him.

Memphis now have an interesting young core consisting of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr and McDaniels. Their rebuild is taking shape nicely and they still have pick 14 to come in this draft.

McDaniels' parents will be thrilled right now. His older brother Jalen was drafted by Charlotte last year.


2019-20 Stats: 26.2 PPG - 5.5 RPG - 3.9 APG - 1.2 SPG - 1.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Brandon Ingram


Fan Opinion: "I understand why we didn't take Hampton. But let's be honest, he is going to be a much better player than McDaniels."



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Pick 7
Image Sacramento Kings

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Pick seven is with Sacramento and they select Israeli forward Deni Avdija. The first international player taken in this year's draft.

A talented outside shooter, Avdija spent this season playing professionally in Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv. It was his third season with the team that he signed with as a 16-year-old.

At the 2019 FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship held in Israel, Avdija led his country to a surprise victory over Spain in the final and was named MVP of the tournament. It's easy to see why some scouts have compared him to Luka Doncic. They both have a maturity and confidence beyond their years. Both seem to be natural born winners too.

Some scouts have Avdija as the best perimeter shooter in this draft. When he gets in a rhythm he can really light it up. He lacks athleticism and has a skinny frame, but those things can be worked on in the gym. His skills more than compensate for his lack of speed.

The Kings have built their team around Buddy Hield, De'Aaron Fox and Marvin Bagley III. Avdija could be a very nice complimentary piece, but realistically it might take him a couple of years to get an NBA-ready body. Hopefully they can be patient with him. At worst he should develop into a JJ Redick type role player.


2019-20 Stats: 24.8 PPG - 5.7 RPG - 3.9 APG - 1.2 SPG - 1.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Gordon Hayward


Fan Opinion: "I'll be honest. I've never seen this guy play. Hopefully the Doncic comparisons turn out to be true."



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Pick 8
Image Detroit Pistons

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RJ Hampton is who the Pistons select with pick number eight. He spent the year playing for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian league.

The enigma of the top ten is finally taken. He was rated anywhere between pick #3 and pick #12 in most mock drafts. Number eight seems about right given what the teams up to this point needed.

Hampton was the lesser-known of the two young American imports to play in the NBL this season, but you could definitely argue that he outshone LaMelo Ball with his play. He absolutely dominated at the offensive end thanks to his impressive athleticism and solid shooting range.

He is able to play at either guard spot, although he clearly favours the point. In this era of position-less basketball, this is a very nice trait to have. Pistons coach Dwayne Casey may do something similar to what Billy Donovan did in playing youngster Shai Gilgeous-Alexander alongside veteran Chris Paul. Having Hampton learn from playing with Derrick Rose would be a great benefit for him.

Adding Hampton is just the first step in Detroit's off-season. They now have to convince all-star center Andre Drummond to re-sign with them, and they face a lot of competition from around the league for his signature.


2019-20 Stats: 28.2 PPG - 5.5 RPG - 9.5 APG - 3.7 SPG - 0.5 BPG

NBA Comparison: Jamal Murray


Fan Opinion: "Yes! This kid is a top 3 talent in this draft and we got him at 8!? Unbelievable."



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Pick 9
Image Chicago Bulls

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The Bulls are up at number nine and we finally get to see how that trade worked out for them. They select Louisville wing Samuell Williamson.

A five-star All-American recruit coming out of high school, Williamson overcame the injuries that delayed the start of his freshman season at Louisville. Fully recovered and showing great growth every game, he is ready to go.

Williamson, much like his namesake Zion, is a tremendous athlete. His shooting hasn't been his strong point in the past, but he looked very impressive during his draft workouts. There are several areas in his game which he will need to tighten up, but you would be hard pressed to find a better player on the fast break in this draft than him.

Chicago have stockpiled talent over the past few drafts, with Lauri Markkanen, Wendell Carter Jr and Coby White being particularly good pick-ups. Considering who was left on the board and the gaps they have on their roster, they really couldn't have picked better than Williamson here.


2019-20 Stats: 22.7 PPG - 5.3 RPG - 3.6 APG - 1.1 SPG - 1.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Jayson Tatum


Fan Opinion: "I'm actually from Louisville, so I saw him play live quite a few times. He definitely has a mini-Tatum vibe to his game."



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Pick 10
Image San Antonio Spurs

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With the tenth pick, the San Antonio Spurs select versatile forward Precious Achiuwa from the University of Memphis.

This a surprising move by the Spurs, who were strongly rumoured to be looking at N'Faly Dante from Oregon as a long-term replacement for LaMarcus Aldridge. Instead they seem to have opted to bring in Rudy Gay's replacement.

Whilst Achiuwa did play second fiddle to James Wiseman during his time with the Tigers, he was definitely no slouch on the court. He is equipped with an surprisingly quick first step, and is an explosive leaper off one or two feet. He’ll attack any sort of defense at the rim, and is a tireless finisher in the paint.

If he can work on improving his ball handling and outside shooting, then he a legitimate chance at being a great offensive player. His versatility to play at either forward position is a nice asset for the Spurs. Once his skills reach the same level as his physical tools, he will be very hard to defend.

The jury is still out on most of the Spurs' young talent. Dejounte Murray has looked very good when he isn't injured, but recent first round picks like Luka Samanic, Lonnie Walker IV and Keldon Johnson have yet to live up to that billing.


2019-20 Stats: 21.3 PPG - 7.9 RPG - 3.2 APG - 2.6 SPG - 2.6 BPG

NBA Comparison: Al-Farouq Aminu


Fan Opinion: "I get Pascal Siakam vibes from this guy. If he works hard he can be anything."



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Pick 11
Image Atlanta Hawks

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The Atlanta Hawks select Maryland power forward Jalen Smith with the eleventh pick. Smith is a rarity these days in that he spent two seasons at college.

He was rated as one of the top players in his position in this draft class, but decided to spend another year at college to further his education on and off the court. Bruno Fernando entering last year's draft also helped Smith decide to return to Maryland because it freed up a bigger role in the team for him.

The Hawks have been one of the best drafting teams in recent years with Trae Young, John Collins, De'Andre Hunter, Kevin Huerter, Cam Reddish and Bruno Fernando all looking like great selections. With so much talent on their roster already it was probably tough to choose which player to take here. But ultimately they decided to get a solid backup for Collins.

This off-season could be massive for Atlanta. They have their young core secured, but they could also have upwards of $70 million to spend in free agency. Do they re-sign Nerlens Noel to be their defensive anchor? Is Andre Drummond a piece that would compliment them? Is DeMarcus Cousins still worth signing after all his major recent injuries?


2019-20 Stats: 15.2 PPG - 11.3 RPG - 2.5 APG - 1.0 SPG - 2.5 BPG

NBA Comparison: Jerami Grant


Fan Opinion: "Seems like another smart selection by Schlenk. Now I'm exited to see what he does in free agency."



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Pick 12
Image Miami Heat

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Next to pick are Miami at number twelve. They select French point guard Theo Maledon, who has spent the past two seasons playing for ASVEL Basket in France.

It is way too early to be talking about who is the steal of this draft, but the Heat may just have him with Maledon. The smooth-moving international was tipped to go in the top ten, but the depth of guard talent in the draft caused him to slide this far.

Like a lot of point guards entering the league in recent years, Maledon has excellent size and length. His quick first step is going to cause problems for opponents who want to deny him access to the rim. He is also somewhat reminiscent on Tony Parker when around the basket. He will find ways to get good shots off from tough angles.

Taking Maledon was a no-brainer for the Heat. Veteran Goran Dragic is 34-years-old and coming out of contract, so they really needed a replacement. He adds another piece to their post-Dwyane Wade rebuild alongside Justise Winslow, Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn.


2019-20 Stats: 21.5 PPG - 4.9 RPG - 8.4 APG - 3.5 SPG - 0.6 BPG

NBA Comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander


Fan Opinion: "What a steal! We needed a replacement for Dragic and this kid looks very interesting."



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Pick 13
Image Portland Trail Blazers

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Portland use pick thirteen on Florida shooting guard Scottie Lewis, a dynamic athlete with elite-level upside.

Just like last year the Blazers have taken a guy who is strong defensively. Lewis isn't elite at either end, but he plays hard at both and is improving every game. His 6'11 wingspan gives him the scope to be an elite wing defender in the future.

Lewis seems to enjoy finishing strongly above the rim and has plenty of bounce. Blazers fans may get to see many spectacular dunks over the coming seasons.

Portland again relied heavily on star duo Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum this season. Hassan Whiteside filled in admirably for the injured Jusuf Nurkic, but he is a free agent and unlikely to return with the team. So the Blazers really need youngsters like Lewis, Zach Collins, Nassir Little and Anfernee Simons to step up and contribute next season.


2019-20 Stats: 18.2 PPG - 6.9 RPG - 4.0 APG - 3.0 SPG - 2.1 BPG

NBA Comparison: Doug Christie


Fan Opinion: "This is a smart move. We can't rely on CJ and Dame playing 40 minutes a night all season."



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Pick 14
Image Memphis Grizzlies

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Memphis return with their second pick at number fourteen, after taking Jaden McDaniels at number six. This time they go for Oregon center N'Faly Dante.

Dante is the top rated traditional center in this draft, in the mould of Dwight Howard and Al Horford. He is already an exceptional defender in the paint at his young age, and his elite length and mobility give him the potential to become a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate type player in his prime.

Despite his defense being his strength, Dante is also a polished offensive player. He finishes very well in the paint and has added a fairly reliable mid-range shot to his arsenal this year.

The Grizzlies will be excited to pair Dante with Jaren Jackson Jr and Jaden McDaniels in their frontcourt. That trio have great potential to thrive together, especially with Ja Morant roaming the perimeter and creating shots for them.


2019-20 Stats: 17.4 PPG - 13.3 RPG - 2.1 APG - 0.7 SPG - 2.7 BPG

NBA Comparison: Al Horford


Fan Opinion: "Good pick. He will fit in well alongside Jaren, Ja and Jaden. Shame his name doesn't start with a "J"."



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Pick 15
Image New York Knicks

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The New York Knicks select forward Kahlil Whitney with the fifteenth pick. He is the first Kentucky player taken in this draft. It is the second year in a row that they haven't had a player selected in the top ten, after eight straight years of that happening.

Whitney is a stand-out athlete, even amongst the company in this draft class. Although he wasn't a top performer this season, many scouts see him as an intriguing prospect. There is tremendous defensive potential in Whitney, but he is still only an adequate shooter.

The Knicks have RJ Barrett, Kevin Knox, Frank Ntilikina, Mitchell Robinson, Dennis Smith Jr and Allonzo Trier as their young core right now, as well as Julius Randle and Bobby Portis as 'young' veterans.

Their big play is still to target superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2021 free agency period, so in the meantime these youngsters have the opportunity to impress. Hopefully for Knicks fans some of them develop into stars, so that the disappointment won't be so bad if/when the Greek Freak doesn't join.


2019-20 Stats: 18.8 PPG - 7.2 RPG - 2.8 APG - 2.3 SPG - 2.8 BPG

NBA Comparison: Miles Bridges


Fan Opinion: "Boooooo!"



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Pick 16
Image Toronto Raptors

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Toronto use pick sixteen to select Arizona point guard Nico Mannion. It seems they have gone for the best player available instead of trying to fill a need.

The red haired playmaker developed a cult followed during his time at Arizona. Partly due to his bright orange hair, but mostly because of what he could do with ball in hand. His vision is elite and he has the skill to execute clinical passes to set up teammates to score.

Toronto gave veteran Kyle Lowry a one-year extension for next season and breakout star Fred VanVleet is set to be offered a new deal once the free agency period officially starts. Lowry will be 35 by the end of next season, so perhaps the Raptors are planning on Mannion and VanVleet taking over once he retires.


2018-19 Stats: 19.1 PPG - 4.4 RPG - 7.0 APG - 3.3 SPG - 0.3 BPG

NBA Comparison: Ricky Rubio


Fan Opinion: "I've seen this guy listed in the top 10 of a few mocks. So I'm pretty happy to get him as an eventual Lowry replacement."



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Pick 17
Image New Orleans Pelicans

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New Orleans have pick seventeen for the second year in a row, only this time they haven't already made tow picks inside the top ten. They select LSU forward Trendon Watford.

The 19-year-old athletic wing is a smooth scorer, who can fill it up from any spot on the floor. He gets to the rim with either hand and is really hard to stay in front of. Plays with change of pace and has a nice Euro step, which he uses often.

Obviously the Pelicans drafted Zion Williamson with the first pick last year and he lived up to the hype that surrounded him in a big way. Other 2019 draftees Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker weren't nearly as dominant as Zion, but they both looked solid as bench players in their rookie season.

Pelicans fans won't have to wait long for their team's next selection, which comes up at pick #21.


2018-19 Stats: 21.4 PPG - 5.3 RPG - 3.6 APG - 1.0 SPG - 1.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Tobias Harris


Fan Opinion: "I attended a lot of LSU games this season and Watford was the stand-out player in most games. I'm excited."



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Pick 18
Image Milwaukee Bucks

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Milwaukee are up next, and they use pick eighteen on Australian shooting guard Josh Green from the University of Arizona.

Green is a very solid all-around player who does everything pretty well, but isn't quite elite at any one aspect of the game. He can score from just about anywhere on the court, but has also shown that he is capable of getting his teammates involved with his passing. He isn't a super gifted athlete, but he knows how to play within his limits effectively.

Outside of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks really had a worse-than-expected season. They really missed Malcolm Brogdon more than they expected, and will be hoping that Green can provide the same level of bench spark that he did before he was signed-and-traded to the Pacers.


2018-19 Stats: 18.8 PPG - 6.5 RPG - 4.0 APG - 2.9 SPG - 1.9 BPG

NBA Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr


Fan Opinion: "As an Aussie Bucks fan, I was sad when we traded Delly and Thon. Hopefully Josh works out for us."



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Pick 19
Image Boston Celtics

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Boston missed out on Memphis' first round pick after it fell just within the top-six protection placed on it. So they enter the draft at number nineteen instead, and select guard Killian Hayes.

The Florida-born French combo guard spent this season playing in Germany with Ulm and was one of the top players in the league despite his age. Hayes has compared his style of play to that of James Harden, saying, "If I had to imitate a player, it would be him (Harden)".

Hayes needs to work on his consistency of shooting if he wants to develop into a potent offensive threat in the NBA. But his athleticism and length make him comfortable playing at either guard position.

With such strong guard depth already you would have thought that the Celtics might have gone with a big man like Vernon Carey Jr or Isaiah Mobley with this pick, but perhaps they are planning to do that with later on pick twenty-seven. Hayes was one of the best players available so maybe Danny Ainge just couldn't pass him up.


2018-19 Stats: 16.9 PPG - 4.0 RPG - 6.9 APG - 3.0 SPG - 0.4 BPG

NBA Comparison: Goran Dragic


Fan Opinion: "I know Kemba is our guy, but he is the wrong side of 30. No harm adding some cover."



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Pick 20
Image Oklahoma City Thunder

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With their second pick in the first round, Oklahoma City select power forward Isaiah Mobley from the University of Southern California at number twenty.

He is a nimble 6'10 forward who can do it all on the court. A fluid athlete who shows great body control and agility in a big frame. Mobley can score in the paint, off the dribble or pulling up in the mid-range. Depending on what the Thunder do in free agency, Mobley could find himself in the starting line-up from day one.

Oklahoma City have needed a replacement at power forward ever since they traded Serge Ibaka in 2016. They had Domantas Sabonis for a season, before they traded him in the Paul George deal in 2017. Mobley has all the potential to be a long-term solution for them at that spot.

Isaiah is the older brother of Evan Mobley, who is one of the top-rated prospects for the 2021 draft. If next season goes similarly to this one, then the brothers could end up playing together in Oklahoma City.


2018-19 Stats: 21.6 PPG - 6.4 RPG - 2.8 APG - 0.8 SPG - 1.2 BPG

NBA Comparison: Taj Gibson


Fan Opinion: "We definitely needed another big man and this guy looks solid. I'm confident he can be good for us."



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Pick 21
Image New Orleans Pelicans

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Here are the Pelicans again, with pick twenty-one. They select Villanova combo forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl.

Whilst he may be a bit undersized at the power forward position, Robinson-Earl makes up for it by having great ball skills. His combination of reliable mid-range shooting and mobility in the paint make up for the fact that he isn't an elite athlete. He projects to be a very solid role player in the NBA.

With big men Derrick Favors and Jahlil Okafor coming out of contract, the Pelicans probably made this selection as an insurance policy. He will compliment 2019 lottery picks Zion Williamson and Jaxson Hayes nicely in their frontcourt rotation.


2018-19 Stats: 23.8 PPG - 10.3 RPG - 2.6 APG - 1.0 SPG - 2.6 BPG

NBA Comparison: Aaron Gordon


Fan Opinion: "Watford and JRE will add even more depth around Zion. David Griffin is building a great team."



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Pick 22
Image Minnesota Timberwolves

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Minnesota decide to go with Illinois point guard Ayo Dosunmu with pick number twenty-two.

Dosunmu is a big and talented guard with great ball-handling skills and creative shot-making ability. He spent an additional year playing in college after he felt that he wasn't ready to enter the NBA last year. He put the extra time to good use and improved his offensive game. His scoring and assist numbers went up significantly this season compared to last year.

The Timberwolves acquired Dennis Schroder at the trade deadline in the hopes of solving their issues at the point guard position. Drafting Dosunmu further reinforces their depth in that area and provides Schroder with a very capable backup.


2018-19 Stats: 17.9 PPG - 2.9 RPG - 8.1 APG - 2.1 SPG - 0.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Kris Dunn


Fan Opinion: "Solid pick up. I like Schroder, but I'm hoping this kid overtakes him by the end of the season."



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Pick 23
Image Los Angeles Clippers

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With pick number twenty-three, the Los Angeles Clippers select Iowa State point guard Tyrese Haliburton.

Haliburton is the premier defensive point guard in this draft. His natural defensive instincts, combined with good length and athleticism allow him to clamp down on opponents and really disrupt their shooting. He is a bit inconsistent at the other end of the court, but he has developed a decent three point shot.

The Clippers will be doing everything they can to strengthen the supporting cast around stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George this off-season after they failed to even reach the conference finals last season. No doubt coach Doc Rivers will be asking Patrick Beverley to take Haliburton under his wing and teach him some of his defending moves.


2018-19 Stats: 19.5 PPG - 4.1 RPG - 6.3 APG - 2.8 SPG - 0.2 BPG

NBA Comparison: Michael Carter-Williams


Fan Opinion: "Hopefully Pat Bev can teach this young guy all the tricks of the trade."



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Pick 24
Image Phoenix Suns

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The Phoenix Suns select Duke big man Vernon Carey Jr with pick twenty-four. He is the second Duke player taken in the first round so far.

It seems that his lack of elite athleticism caused him to slide this far from his projected status as a top-fifteen pick. He is a very determined finisher in the paint and has also worked hard on his mid-range game. But he will need to drastically improve the defensive side of his game if he wants to become an elite player.

Phoenix and their young core had a breakout season and finished with the sixth seed, before losing to Denver in the first round. Backup center Aron Baynes is out of contract, so drafting Carey is a solid move for them.


2018-19 Stats: 18.7 PPG - 10.1 RPG - 2.6 APG - 0.9 SPG - 2.7 BPG

NBA Comparison: Derrick Favors


Fan Opinion: "I'm surprised he lasted this long. I thought for sure he was a lottery pick. Good for us, I guess."



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Pick 25
Image Brooklyn Nets

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Brooklyn use the first of their two late first round picks on Kentucky wing Johnny Juzang.

He is a silky smooth scorer who is comfortable at either small forward or shooting guard and has a great feel for the game. Juzang excels in catch-and-shoot situations and can also get his shot off the dribble. The only downside to his game is that he isn't the quickest or most athletic player, but he can work on that.

The Nets missed out on superstar signing Kevin Durant last season due to a long-term Achilles injury, but they still performed well thanks to Kyrie Irving. With Durant back they should be one of the favourites to challenge for the title next season.


2018-19 Stats: 21.8 PPG - 4.0 RPG - 4.2 APG - 1.2 SPG - 0.7 BPG

NBA Comparison: Dillon Brooks


Fan Opinion: "This guy is a natural born scorer. I think teams will struggle to stop us next season especially with KD coming back."



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Pick 26
Image Oklahoma City Thunder

Image

It's Oklahoma City's turn once again at pick twenty-six. They use their third first round selection to take center Charles Bassey from Western Kentucky University.

The Nigerian opted to return to college after briefly flirting with the idea of entering the 2019 draft. The decision seems to have paid off after he averaged 20 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks per game and made himself a first round selection. He already had an NBA-ready body, but he added more dimensions to his offensive repertoire and also became a much more more solid one-on-one defender.

The Thunder have really stocked up their frontcourt with Bassey and Isaiah Mobley. Steven Adams seems to be sticking around for the time being and recycled pair Deyonta Davis and Justin Patton were surprisingly effective at times last season.


2018-19 Stats: 20.6 PPG - 11.8 RPG - 2.8 APG - 0.8 SPG - 3.0 BPG

NBA Comparison: Myles Turner


Fan Opinion: "Looks like a good pick up. Hopefully he can add a different dimension to Steven Adams in our offense."



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Pick 27
Image Boston Celtics

Image

Having already taken Killian Hayes at pick nineteen, the Boston Celtics are on the clock again with pick twenty-seven. They select Gonzaga big man Filip Petrusev.

The Serbian spent two seasons with the Bulldogs and was arguably the best shooter amongst all college big men during his second season. Although not a strong defensive player, he can play at both center and power forward. His length does allow him to compensate somewhat for his lack of natural defensive instincts.

Boston really needed depth in the big man department, so this is a smart move. Having Petrusev on the court at the same time as Enes Kanter may lead to problems on defense, but they will sure have no trouble scoring the basketball.


2018-19 Stats: 21.8 PPG - 9.3 RPG - 2.4 APG - 0.8 SPG - 2.4 BPG

NBA Comparison: Channing Frye


Fan Opinion: "I've only seen Youtube highlights of this guy, but he looks like a decent shooting big man."



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WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!

Houston is sending pick 28 to Sacramento in exchange for pick 37, pick 41 and cash considerations ($1m).


The Rockets may have done this deal for financial reasons. Not only are second round picks on cheaper salaries, but they are also non-guaranteed contracts. That will help Houston manage their cap situation a bit better.


Clearly the Kings weren't going to use each of their four second round picks, so they packaged two up in order to enter the back end of the first round. They already took Deni Avdija with pick 7 and now they can add some more much-needed talent to their roster.




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Pick 28
Image Sacramento Kings

Image

So the Kings trade up for another first round pick. With selection number twenty-eight they draft Duke wing Cassius Stanley.

Stanley has been likened to Chicago Bulls high-flyer Zach LaVine thanks to his impressive vertical and ferocious dunking ability. His main asset is definitely his elite athleticism, but he is a pretty raw prospect in most areas. It will probably take him a couple of seasons to develop into a reliable scorer in the NBA.

Sacramento clearly came into this draft with the intention of strengthening their wing stocks. Buddy Hield and Harrison Barnes are both locked in long-term, but Serbian sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic is out of contract and they may not be able to afford to keep him. So Adding Stanley and Deni Avdija is good business by Vlade Divac.


2018-19 Stats: 15.1 PPG - 6.4 RPG - 2.3 APG - 2.0 SPG - 2.4 BPG

NBA Comparison: Josh Richardson


Fan Opinion: "I'm very happy. This kid will win the dunk contest someday. Incredible leaper."



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Pick 29
Image Brooklyn Nets

Image

Brooklyn make their second pick of the draft at number twenty-nine. They choose Isaiah Mobley's USC teammate Onyeka Okongwu.

He is an old-school type forward who loves getting physical in the paint. Okongwu joined the likes of Jason Kidd, Tyson Chandler and Aaron Gordon in being named California Mr. Basketball two years in a row, as the best high school player in the state of California. He is very much one of those guys who rely more on work rate than natural talent, but he is working at improving his game.

The Nets really needed another power forward after they relied heavily on two-way player Henry Ellenson last season. Okongwu should give them good energy off the bench and really compliment the dominant rebounding of DeAndre Jordan and Jarrett Allen.


2018-19 Stats: 12.4 PPG - 9.8 RPG - 1.7 APG - 1.0 SPG - 1.7 BPG

NBA Comparison: Tristan Thompson


Fan Opinion: "He seems like a bit of a project player. I'm not sure how that fits in with our championship goal."



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Pick 30
Image Los Angeles Lakers

Image

Commissioner Silver walks out for the final time tonight to announce a selection. The Lakers pick Senegalese forward Amar Sylla at number thirty.

This kid is the ultimate "two years away from being ready" guy. His potential is there for everyone to see with his impressive athleticism and length, but his skills need a lot of work. He projects as a Serge Ibaka type rim protector as a power forward. His wingspan is elite and will definitely make him a feared shot-blocker in the future.

Sylla previously played for Real Madrid in Spain before recently signing a contract with Oostende in Belgium, so he will likely spend at least one more season with them before joining the Lakers. That works out well for them as it ensures that he gets playing time, but also that they won't have to worry about his contract affecting their precarious salary cap situation just yet.


2018-19 Stats: 19.4 PPG - 6.6 RPG - 3.1 APG - 1.1 SPG - 1.2 BPG

NBA Comparison: Serge Ibaka


Fan Opinion: "We just won the title, so how does getting a draft-and-stash guy help us at all?"
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Re: OKC: Part III - Draft Lottery: Who has the luck this year?

Postby Phil89 on Sat Dec 28, 2019 1:51 pm

18/7/20

2020 NBA Draft Full Summary

Image



The 2020 NBA draft provided another night of intrigue and entertainment.

Memphis big man James Wiseman beat out Georgia's Anthony Edwards to be taken first overall by the Charlotte Hornets. Edwards then fell into the grateful arms of Oklahoma City at number two.

Dallas brought more Lamar Ball into our lives by drafting another of his sons into the league, this time LaMelo with pick 3.

Orlando pulled off the big trade of the night by doing a deal with Chicago so that they could take Cole Anthony at pick 5. The Bulls moved down a few spots and added a future first round pick, so it will take a few years before we know who got the better side of the deal.

The Kings, Thunder and Grizzlies all made deals with surplus second round picks.



Image

Image



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Draft transactions


Chicago receive: Pick #9, 2021 Magic first round pick (Top 3 protected), Cash considerations ($2m)
Orlando receive: Pick #4

Houston receive: Pick #37, Pick #41, Cash considerations ($1m)
Sacramento receive: Pick #28

Cleveland receive: Pick #33
Oklahoma City receive: 2021 Cavs 2nd, Cash considerations ($600k)

Portland receive: Pick #38
Sacramento receive: 2022 Blazers 2nd, Cash considerations ($400k)

Detroit receive: Pick #49
Memphis receive: 2023 Pistons 2nd, Cash considerations ($200k)



Further Notes


- Amar Sylla (Pick 30) has a buyout with Belgian team Oostende. He will stay with them for at least 1 more season.
- Malcolm Cazalon (Pick 44) has a buyout with French team Leuven. He will stay with them for at least 1 more season.
- Sergi Martinez (Pick 50) has a buyout with Spanish team Barcelona. He will stay with them for at least 1 more season.
- Arturs Zagars (Pick 53) has a buyout with Spanish team Badalona. He will stay with them for at least 1 more season.

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Re: OKC: Part III - 2020 NBA Draft: Who do the Hornets take at #1?

Postby Andrew on Sat Dec 28, 2019 5:36 pm

Doncic and Ball on the same team, interesting. Hope Edwards pans out!
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Re: OKC: Part III - 2020 NBA Draft: Who do the Hornets take at #1?

Postby Phil89 on Sun Dec 29, 2019 11:00 am

I'm excited about Edwards. Hopefully he lives up to the hype and fills that James Harden-sized hole that OKC have had for years.

I don't know much about the other two guys I drafted, but they seem decent. I decided to trade pick 33 for a second rounder next year because I didn't really want 4 rookies. And also the next draft may be a little deeper anyway.
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Re: OKC: Part III - 2020 NBA Draft: Who do the Hornets take at #1?

Postby [Hyperize] on Mon Dec 30, 2019 1:29 am

I think my favorite name in the draft is Precious Achiuwa. :lol:
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Re: OKC: Part III - 2020 NBA Draft: Who do the Hornets take at #1?

Postby Andrew on Mon Dec 30, 2019 12:29 pm

SGA going off in real life as well: https://twitter.com/Ballislife/status/1 ... 0144789505
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Re: OKC: Part III - 2020 NBA Draft: Who do the Hornets take at #1?

Postby Phil89 on Mon Dec 30, 2019 2:42 pm

Hyperize- wrote:I think my favorite name in the draft is Precious Achiuwa. :lol:

School must have been fun for him when the Lord of the Rings movies came out :wink:

Andrew wrote:SGA going off in real life as well: https://twitter.com/Ballislife/status/1 ... 0144789505

He is showing great signs (Y)

I think the influence CP3 is having on him is huge too. It seems like he has embraced that mentor role and he actually looks happier this season than he has in recent years.
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