Welcome to the NBA DRAFT 2008!
We have many young prospects out here, really young...frankly giving a new meaning to the saying Diaper Dandy!!!
The winners of this draft comes through the laws of relativity. You see folks, this is not 2003, the draft that spawned the new wave of superstardom with Carmelo Anthony, Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. No, this is more like the Kwame Brown, Tyson Chandler, Eddy Curry baby draft that is different only by the NBA's latest plan to change the landscape with their "19 Year Old" rule. So be it. While I'm not sold on many players in this draft- Derrick Rose included, my winners follow the common theme- getting the most from the position from which you stand. So without further adieu...
Second Runner-Up...
The Milwaukee Bucks:
Richard Jefferson is an All-Star talent, and while he was picked up in a trade non-inclusive of Draft Picks, it was part of an attempt to compete now. They dumped Bobby Simmons, one of the WORST free agent pick-ups of the past five years and Yi Jianlin, who even if he does improve to star level, could you really ever see him getting better than Jefferson is now? Joe Alexander is a 6'8 small forward with loads of upside that can really play, and while everyone is scratching there heads I say great move. He has an opportunity to learn from an All-Star in front of him, and if Jefferson doesn't pan out in the next two years teamed with Redd, Williams, Bogut and Villanueva then he becomes a valuable trading chip as an expiring contract and top level talent...a piece that could land you great value in return in the future to fill you possible needs at the 1, 4 and 5. The prince from UCLA Luc Richard Mbah A Moute is no slouch as well, a guy who puts a premium on defense is never bad to have.
First Runner-Up...
The Toronto Raptors:
Seeing the theme here? Trading for Jermaine O'Neal is the ultimate statement move. The Raptors have been on the verge of being an elite team in the Eastern Conference, and while injuries remain a concern, O'Neal's rebounding and face up post game is a perfect compliment to the bruising Chris Bosh and the silky smooth Andrea Barnagni. Not only will this represent the biggest, most versatile front line in the whole sport, with three athletic 6'11 guys, but quite possibly the most formidable, health abiding. With Jose Calderon looking as a lock to re-sign, they are a Jason Richardson/Corey Maggette away from championship caliber...how Vince Carter must feel now.
and the Winner is...
The Miami Heat:
Lastly, a team that actually made draft picks, the Heat. I love the nucleus of an all out big guy that can score in Michael Beasley, one of the best pure leaders of the game in Dwayne Wade, and an athletic swingman in Shawn Marion. And don't underestimate one of the steals in the draft at #34 Mario Chalmers of Kansas; a gritty, defensive minded point gaurd who knows how to lead a team. Pat Riley may not be happy, and Beasley may be the next Derrick Coleman- but from where I stand they did the most with what they had.
Stay tuned tomorrow for the Losers of this draft...
Keywords: Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, NBA Draft 2008, Toronto Raptors
