Draft Lottery Observations
Added on May 22, 2013 by Scott in
No Comments
The 2013 NBA Draft won’t be held until June 27th, but last night’s annual Draft Lottery revealed that the Cleveland Cavaliers will once again be selecting in the top spot. Despite the need for premium talent, especially in the frontcourt, the Cavs aren’t a lock to keep the number one overall pick. With a weak class of prospects lying in wait, here are some observations about what might happen in the first half of round one.
Cavaliers (#1) – To trade or not to trade, that is the question. If Kentucky forward Nerlens Noel wasn’t recovering from an ACL injury, it’s unlikely Cleveland would listen to offers. However, Noel’s health status and his raw skill set is enough for the front office to consider sliding back. The problem is Noel is the most physically gifted inside player available, so staying put probably makes the most sense.
Magic (#2) – The worst team in 2012-13 will have to settle for #2, where they can choose from a group of solid, if not spectacular, prospects. Jameer Nelson is coming off a career season, but he can’t stay out of the trainer’s room. They could go with Trey Burke as insurance, or Otto Porter Jr. to fill a glaring hole at small forward. The safest pick is probably Ben McLemore.
Suns (#5) – With the exception of point guard Goran Dragic, Phoenix needs help everywhere. A big man like Cody Zeller should be at the top of their wish list. He’s not yet an imposing inside threat, but his size and athleticism will give the Suns a much needed player to build around.
Timberwolves (#9) – Shooting guard must be addressed. Unfortunately for the T-Wolves, there isn’t much talent available at the position. Shabazz Muhammad is intriguing, but also risky. C.J. McCollum is undersized and a bit of a reach at No. 9, but he brings a scorer’s mentality.
Sixers (#11) – The Andrew Bynum disaster leaves Philly without a reliable low post option. Kelly Olynyk, Mason Plumlee and Alex Lin are all seven-footers with upside. None is a can’t-miss choice, but avoiding the trio in favor of another guard or small forward would be a mistake by the new management team.
