With 24 Hours Until The Ping Pong Balls Drop, Who Gets Greg Oden?

[RhymesayersDU]

Celtics? Grizz? Somebody else?

I should have posted percentage chances, etc, but yeah, too much effort.

[Paladin]

Somehow, Timmy will whine the spurts into the first pick.......

[RhymesayersDU]

I voted NY purely as a throwback to the Ewing conspiracy of years ago.

[Pezman]

Jim Rome sucks...

Oh sorry, wrong thread

[Clockwork Orange]

I'll laugh my ass off if the Knicks pick comes up #1 or #2 and they have to hand it over to the Bulls. Knicks fans would be calling for Isiah to be hanged in Times Square.

The rest of the Eastern Conference should be terrified at the idea. Imagine dropping Oden or Durant into a lineup that already features Gordon, Hinrich, Deng, Wallace, Thomas & Nocioni. That's downright frightening.

[ludo21]

I voted Boston, but hopefully the Grizz get it and can turn their franchise around.

I hope the Hawks get the 4th pick, then it will be the SUNS!! YESS!!

Then maybe a package deal to slide up and get Durant!! ;D

If we stay put I liike Brandon Wright, and then #0 from Oregon at 29.

edit: Aaron Brooks! thats the guy! He would be a solid guy here, great shooter

[RhymesayersDU]

I'll laugh my ass off if the Knicks pick comes up #1 or #2 and they have to hand it over to the Bulls. Knicks fans would be calling for Isiah to be hanged in Times Square.

The rest of the Eastern Conference should be terrified at the idea. Imagine dropping Oden or Durant into a lineup that already features Gordon, Hinrich, Deng, Wallace, Thomas & Nocioni. That's downright frightening.

Oh, NY gives their pick up again? Yeah, that sucks for them.

I hate the fact that the Suns and Bulls will have lottery picks and just get better.

[Clockwork Orange]

Oh, NY gives their pick up again? Yeah, that sucks for them.

I hate the fact that the Suns and Bulls will have lottery picks and just get better.

The Bulls have the right to swap 1st rounders with NY to complete the Eddy Curry trade. The Knicks gave up an unprotected lottery pick last year that ended up becoming Tyrus Thomas and now they'll be swapping a top 10 pick for a pick in the 20's.

All for Eddy Curry. :laugh:

[ludo21]

<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>1</TD><TD class=tablemed>Greg Oden (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19020&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>C (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=9&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>7-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>245</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>Ohio State (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=194&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 2</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>The consensus No. 1 pick in the draft despite Kevin Durant's amazing season. Draws comparisons... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19020&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>2</TD><TD class=tablemed>Kevin Durant (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19021&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-10</TD><TD class=tablemed>190</TD><TD class=tablemed>18</TD><TD class=tablemed>Texas (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=251&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 2</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>Some scouts are calling him a mixture of Kevin Garnett and Dirk Nowitzki. Others say... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19021&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>3</TD><TD class=tablemed>Yi Jianlian (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18866&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>7-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>246</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>China (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=3007&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Yi is the best international prospect in the draft this year. He has a ton... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18866&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>4</TD><TD class=tablemed>Brandan Wright (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19023&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-10</TD><TD class=tablemed>210</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>North Carolina (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=153&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>On potential, he has the chance to be a NBA All-Star. And so far he's... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19023&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>5</TD><TD class=tablemed>Al Horford (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18841&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-9</TD><TD class=tablemed>235</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Horford has the body and skill set needed to play in the NBA right away.... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18841&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>6</TD><TD class=tablemed>Corey Brewer (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18857&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SG (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=2&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-8</TD><TD class=tablemed>185</TD><TD class=tablemed>21</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>An excellent NCAA tournament this season helped Brewer's stock perhaps more than anyone else. He... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18857&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>7</TD><TD class=tablemed>Julian Wright (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18855&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-9</TD><TD class=tablemed>220</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Kansas (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=2305&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Wright may be the most versatile player in the draft. He can guard and play... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18855&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>8</TD><TD class=tablemed>Mike Conley (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19055&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PG (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=1&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>170</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>Ohio State (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=194&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>Conley quickly asserted himself as the best young college point guard in the country. His... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19055&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>9</TD><TD class=tablemed>Jeff Green (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18886&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-8</TD><TD class=tablemed>225</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Georgetown (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=46&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Lottery</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Scouts love his versatility and all-around game. But he doesn't really have one standout skill... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18886&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>10</TD><TD class=tablemed>Joakim Noah (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18958&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-11</TD><TD class=tablemed>230</TD><TD class=tablemed>22</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Lottery</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



I also wouldnt mind Horford at 4 either... man, come on Hawks, dont get top 3!!! pleaseee!!!!

[RhymesayersDU]

The Bulls have the right to swap 1st rounders with NY to complete the Eddy Curry trade. The Knicks gave up an unprotected lottery pick last year that ended up becoming Tyrus Thomas and now they'll be swapping a top 10 pick for a pick in the 20's.

All for Eddy Curry. :laugh:

Man, the Bulls could be good next year. They don't even have to use the pick, they could trade NY's pick away and get a darn good piece. Or could you imagine if they got Oden or Durant? Yikes.

[RhymesayersDU]

<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>1</TD><TD class=tablemed>Greg Oden (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19020&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>C (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=9&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>7-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>245</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>Ohio State (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=194&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 2</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>The consensus No. 1 pick in the draft despite Kevin Durant's amazing season. Draws comparisons... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19020&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>2</TD><TD class=tablemed>Kevin Durant (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19021&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-10</TD><TD class=tablemed>190</TD><TD class=tablemed>18</TD><TD class=tablemed>Texas (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=251&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 2</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>Some scouts are calling him a mixture of Kevin Garnett and Dirk Nowitzki. Others say... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19021&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>3</TD><TD class=tablemed>Yi Jianlian (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18866&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>7-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>246</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>China (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=3007&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Yi is the best international prospect in the draft this year. He has a ton... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18866&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>4</TD><TD class=tablemed>Brandan Wright (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19023&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-10</TD><TD class=tablemed>210</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>North Carolina (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=153&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>On potential, he has the chance to be a NBA All-Star. And so far he's... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19023&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>5</TD><TD class=tablemed>Al Horford (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18841&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-9</TD><TD class=tablemed>235</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Horford has the body and skill set needed to play in the NBA right away.... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18841&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>6</TD><TD class=tablemed>Corey Brewer (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18857&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SG (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=2&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-8</TD><TD class=tablemed>185</TD><TD class=tablemed>21</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>An excellent NCAA tournament this season helped Brewer's stock perhaps more than anyone else. He... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18857&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>7</TD><TD class=tablemed>Julian Wright (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18855&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-9</TD><TD class=tablemed>220</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Kansas (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=2305&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Wright may be the most versatile player in the draft. He can guard and play... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18855&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>8</TD><TD class=tablemed>Mike Conley (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19055&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PG (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=1&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-0</TD><TD class=tablemed>170</TD><TD class=tablemed>19</TD><TD class=tablemed>Ohio State (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=194&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Top 10</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD colSpan=8>Conley quickly asserted himself as the best young college point guard in the country. His... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19055&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD class=tablemed>9</TD><TD class=tablemed>Jeff Green (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18886&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>SF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=5&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-8</TD><TD class=tablemed>225</TD><TD class=tablemed>20</TD><TD class=tablemed>Georgetown (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=46&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Lottery</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow><TD colSpan=8>Scouts love his versatility and all-around game. But he doesn't really have one standout skill... more (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18886&draftyear=2007)</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD class=tablemed>10</TD><TD class=tablemed>Joakim Noah (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18958&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>PF (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/position?id=6&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>6-11</TD><TD class=tablemed>230</TD><TD class=tablemed>22</TD><TD class=tablemed>Florida (http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/school?id=57&draftyear=2007)</TD><TD class=tablemed>Lottery</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



I also wouldnt mind Horford at 4 either... man, come on Hawks, dont get top 3!!! pleaseee!!!!

Hey ludo, I remember hearing, either on this board or maybe ESPN, that there were rumblings in PHX about if the Suns didn't make it this year, they might part ways with Marion.

Have you heard anything like that, and/or do you think you might package ATL's pick and Marion for perhaps Oden or Durant?

[maven]

Im not sure I agree with the thread title that Oden clearly goes #1. I could definately see some teams taking Durant over Oden.

My guess who wins the ping pong balls. Memphis. Now if the Grizz are smart & don't trade Gasol, pair him with Oden.

[maven]

Hey ludo, I remember hearing, either on this board or maybe ESPN, that there were rumblings in PHX about if the Suns didn't make it this year, they might part ways with Marion.

Have you heard anything like that, and/or do you think you might package ATL's pick and Marion for perhaps Oden or Durant?

That's not enough, unless Atlanta is picking top 2, and they trade Marion/2 for the #1 overall. Marion is not as valuable as people think he may be. And it wouldn't be at all shocking if Marion is dumped.

[ludo21]

Hey ludo, I remember hearing, either on this board or maybe ESPN, that there were rumblings in PHX about if the Suns didn't make it this year, they might part ways with Marion.

Have you heard anything like that, and/or do you think you might package ATL's pick and Marion for perhaps Oden or Durant?


I have heard the rumblings yes. I wouldnt mind dumping Marion, but only caz he is due 16 million next year... that is too much for him.

But whatever happens, happens, Id love to package him and #4 to move up but like Maven said, Marion just isnt the valuable. But maybe if we add the rest of our draft it could be possible.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I have heard the rumblings yes. I wouldnt mind dumping Marion, but only caz he is due 16 million next year... that is too much for him.

But whatever happens, happens, Id love to package him and #4 to move up but like Maven said, Marion just isnt the valuable. But maybe if we add the rest of our draft it could be possible.


If the Suns dump Marion, they are giving up on their current incarnation.

[RhymesayersDU]

Im not sure I agree with the thread title that Oden clearly goes #1. I could definately see some teams taking Durant over Oden.

My guess who wins the ping pong balls. Memphis. Now if the Grizz are smart & don't trade Gasol, pair him with Oden.

I think you're right that Durant is just as deserving of a #1 pick. But look at the list of lottery teams. None of them has a center. Even Minnesota IMO would take Oden and pair him with KG.

[RhymesayersDU]

That's not enough, unless Atlanta is picking top 2, and they trade Marion/2 for the #1 overall. Marion is not as valuable as people think he may be. And it wouldn't be at all shocking if Marion is dumped.

You may be right, although Marion is an all-around player. But you're probably right.

However, ponder this idle speculation: Atlanta's pick + Amare for Oden?

Oh, and Atlanta's pick is Top-3 protected. The best PHX can pick is 4.

[BizzyBone7]

Im gonna say Seattle gets it. Oden's just gonna rot there. Although with Lewis, he could be a good fit. I've lost all touch with that franchise since the Kemp and Payton days.

EDIT: I forgot they had Ray Allen too.

[maven]

I think you're right that Durant is just as deserving of a #1 pick. But look at the list of lottery teams. None of them has a center. Even Minnesota IMO would take Oden and pair him with KG.

You can play without centers in the NBA these days. The position is not as important as it used to be. Durant brings multiple skills. For example, I could definately see the Celtics go Durant over Oden. The Suns have the Hawks pick, trade Marion & move up which I could see take Durant over Oden(of'course lucky balls bouncing the Suns way). Minnesota should take Oden if they keep KG. If they move KG, take Durant.

[RhymesayersDU]

You can play without centers in the NBA these days. The position is not as important as it used to be. Durant brings multiple skills. For example, I could definately see the Celtics go Durant over Oden. The Suns have the Hawks pick, which I could see take Durant over Oden(of'course lucky balls bouncing the Suns way). Minnesota should take Oden if they keep KG. If they move KG, take Durant.

Ehhh, I think guys like Shaq and Tim Duncan would disagree with you, although Timmy D is a 4.

I think you need a big man to a certain extent. Not to diminish Durant's skills, because he's great, but man, I couldn't see a scenario where Oden is passed up. Especially in Boston. Pierce on the outside, Al Jefferson and Oden on the inside, scary.

[maven]

You may be right, although Marion is an all-around player. But you're probably right.

However, ponder this idle speculation: Atlanta's pick + Amare for Oden?

Oh, and Atlanta's pick is Top-3 protected. The best PHX can pick is 4.

I think Marion + #4(if balls bounce thier way) would still not be enough in this draft. It's a clear 2, and dropoff.

I think if the Suns stay around 8/9, Noah would be a good selection. The guy can run/leap/and bring some toughness. Is he going to be a great player? Hell no, but he can fill that hole at #4 with Amare. Diaw was sensational without Amare, but Diaw with Amare... Need more toughness at the 4, second chance rebounds, I guy who isn't looking to score.

[maven]

Ehhh, I think guys like Shaq and Tim Duncan would disagree with you, although Timmy D is a 4.

I think you need a big man to a certain extent. Not to diminish Durant's skills, because he's great, but man, I couldn't see a scenario where Oden is passed up. Especially in Boston. Pierce on the outside, Al Jefferson and Oden on the inside, scary.

Timmy's a clear 4. He says it. He plays it. Shaq is an anomaly.

[-Slap-]

I want whatever will make Jerry West happy.

[chickennob2]

Please, dear God, let memphis get the number one pick. we need to turn this franchise around. From losing the #2 pick (Carmelo Anthony/Dwayne Wade) because of a trade made when the team was still in Vancouver to getting swept in the playoffs 3 consecutive years, to Gasol's injury and subsequent trade requests, we really need some good luck. I mean it's either we get 1 or 2 and play to a packed house every night, or we get stuck with someone like Horford and play to a 1/4 full house and the Griz leave as soon as their contract expires.

Please, dear god, do what needs to be done. Let the Grizzlies pick first.

[Clockwork Orange]

Please, dear God, let memphis get the number one pick. we need to turn this franchise around. From losing the #2 pick (Carmelo Anthony/Dwayne Wade) because of a trade made when the team was still in Vancouver to getting swept in the playoffs 3 consecutive years, to Gasol's injury and subsequent trade requests, we really need some good luck. I mean it's either we get 1 or 2 and play to a packed house every night, or we get stuck with someone like Horford and play to a 1/4 full house and the Griz leave as soon as their contract expires.

Please, dear god, do what needs to be done. Let the Grizzlies pick first.

Had the Grizz been able to keep that 2nd pick, it would have been Carmelo Anthony. Jerry West absolutely loved him and publicly questioned that sanity of anyone (see Dumars, Joe) who'd take a Euro-project over him.

[maher_tyler]

The Bulls have the right to swap 1st rounders with NY to complete the Eddy Curry trade. The Knicks gave up an unprotected lottery pick last year that ended up becoming Tyrus Thomas and now they'll be swapping a top 10 pick for a pick in the 20's.

All for Eddy Curry. :laugh:That's pure guinness
and pure stupidity at the sametime...just glad i'm a Bulls fan!!

[chaz]

i am really hoping the wolves get a lucky break...with all the **** mchale has put th team thru my twolves could really use some good fortune getting into the top 3. of course then mchale would just **** it up anyways so it doesnt really matter so i dont even know why i still ****ing care, he needs to go...

[PUFFHEAD]

If the Suns dump Marion, they are giving up on their current incarnation.


Well no sh!t... What tipped you off??? I am truly BLOWN away by this astute observation. Are you related to Kant or Locke by chance???... Holy cow... DEEP

[phibacka31]

I really hope my pacers get in the top 5. We need to get up there so we keep the pick. We've also had two years of absolute hell in indiana, and could use a break

[RhymesayersDU]

Timmy's a clear 4. He says it. He plays it. Shaq is an anomaly.

You're right, he is a 4. I guess my point is, or my belief is, for the most part, that you need a dominant big man (either a 4 or a 5) to be successful. Granted, Michael Jordan breaks that model for the most part, but you get my point.

[RhymesayersDU]

I really hope my pacers get in the top 5. We need to get up there so we keep the pick. We've also had two years of absolute hell in indiana, and could use a break

Danny Granger needs some help! I really hope they become good again. Love me some DGranger.

[NaptownChief]

Im not sure I agree with the thread title that Oden clearly goes #1. I could definately see some teams taking Durant over Oden.




I can't see any circumstance under the sun that Oden doesn't go 1st overall...First I don't see any team that wouldn't prefer him but if there was any team that didn't they would know everyone else would and probably would parlay that into a move back to #2 and get Durant plus a lot of other goodies.

Durant is a good player but athletic true centers come along about once a decade...outstanding wing players come along every year. Lebron James is probably the best all around player in the league already but he isn't the most valuable. That still belongs to Tim Duncan because he brings greatness at a position so few others have.

[NaptownChief]

I really hope my pacers get in the top 5. We need to get up there so we keep the pick. We've also had two years of absolute hell in indiana, and could use a break



We don't have a chance at top 5, it will either be top 3 or the pick goes to Atlanta.....and we only have about a 1.5 to 2% chance of that happening....would be nice but it is a crazy long shot at best.

[HorseHead]

I don't really expect any love for the Celtics, but man, if ever a team needed a break. We're all bitter here in New England, no one expects us to get Oden....some bad karma is going to happen....

[Arkansas Bronco]

Please give me Oden. We (The Grizz) need help.

[NaptownChief]

I don't really expect any love for the Celtics, but man, if ever a team needed a break. We're all bitter here in New England, no one expects us to get Oden....some bad karma is going to happen....


The Celtics are certainly due for a break.....Oden is very Bill Russell-esq so he would look right at home in that uni.

We Indiana folks would certainly like for that 1% chance to come through and bring him back home to Indy however. We could use a break also. Especially after getting shafted by the NBA with the NY Knicks/Pat Ewing/cold envelop trick back in the day.

[Nuggets4]

As long as both Durant and Oden go East, I'm happy.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Please, dear God, let memphis get the number one pick. we need to turn this franchise around. From losing the #2 pick (Carmelo Anthony/Dwayne Wade) because of a trade made when the team was still in Vancouver to getting swept in the playoffs 3 consecutive years, to Gasol's injury and subsequent trade requests, we really need some good luck. I mean it's either we get 1 or 2 and play to a packed house every night, or we get stuck with someone like Horford and play to a 1/4 full house and the Griz leave as soon as their contract expires.

Please, dear god, do what needs to be done. Let the Grizzlies pick first.

That's just pitiful, bro.

I would be rooting for you if Memphis wasnt in the SW division, but I feel ya.

The Mavs sucked like no other until Nowitzki and co showed up about 10 years after their last WCF appearance.

[Jerry Curl]

I'm going out on a limb...The grizz get #1, pick Oden(who's going #1 no matter what)...then trade Gasol to Team X for their pick and select Mike Conley Jr., mark it down!

[epicSocialism4tw]

I think that Boston will get it.

The league desperately needs the Boston franchise back in the elite. They have been sorry for too long. Not to mention that ESPiN is in their backyard and there are several high-profile Celtics fans mucking up the basketball coverage with their lament for the "good ol days" of basketball, which is nothing but their lament for the era(s) when their team was any good (I'm talking to you Bill Simmons among others).

Here's my prediction:

1. Boston
2. NY
3. Atlanta

[Los Broncos]

im hoping my pacers get him because it looks like O'neal is on his way out.

[SoDak Bronco]

So Can you explain how the bulls would get the NY pick? If the Knicks end up in the top 10 they can exchange 1st rounders and move up?


What is the % chance the knicks end up with #1 pick..

By

[RhymesayersDU]

So Can you explain how the bulls would get the NY pick? If the Knicks end up in the top 10 they can exchange 1st rounders and move up?


What is the % chance the knicks end up with #1 pick..

By

As I understand it, the Bulls get to swap picks with NY, and it doesn't matter where the Knicks pick.

[NaptownChief]

As I understand it, the Bulls get to swap picks with NY, and it doesn't matter where the Knicks pick.


That will be too great if it is the #1 pick...The Bulls would build a dynasty which I could live with and the Knicks would get what they deserve for hiring a proven moron like Zeke.

I'm an Indiana Hoosier and I can't even bring myself to like him even after helping bring us a national Championship in 1981.

[RhymesayersDU]

That will be too great if it is the #1 pick...The Bulls would build a dynasty which I could live with and the Knicks would get what they deserve for hiring a proven moron like Zeke.

I'm an Indiana Hoosier and I can't even bring myself to like him even after helping bring us a national Championship in 1981.

I think the Knicks getting the #1 pick would be the only thing that would make Celtic-nation smile if the C's don't get #1.

[Mountain Bronco]

The 1 and 2 picks don't get traded unless Koby plus a top ten is offfered, so it won't happen. Those two players are far too good to pass up no matter what the offer is.

[Clockwork Orange]

I wish I could root for the Bobcats to get a top 2 pick, they've got several players I like (Knight, Okafor, Morrison). Unfortunately, the presence of Bernie Bickerstaff forces me to hope that nothing but ill fortune befalls them until he's gone.

[RhymesayersDU]

I wish I could root for the Bobcats to get a top 2 pick, they've got several players I like (Knight, Okafor, Morrison). Unfortunately, the presence of Bernie Bickerstaff forces me to hope that nothing but ill fortune befalls them until he's gone.

I need to find the link, but he's gone from what I read. So root away.

[ZONA]

Jim Rome sucks...

Oh sorry, wrong thread

Classic man - that was great! Hilarious!

[ZONA]

I like Durant better then Oden. I think Durant is going to end up something like a cross between Shawn Kemp and Alex English. Give me that guy. Oden is good too but something tells me he is going to be another Kwami or something. Lots of size, potential but not the results.

[Rock Chalk]

Oden goes to whoever picks #2 because Durant is going #1.

[Clockwork Orange]

Oden goes to whoever picks #2 because Durant is going #1.

Keep dreaming.

[Clockwork Orange]

I think Durant is going to end up something like a cross between Shawn Kemp and Alex English.

So he's going to be a guy who reads poetry to his 29 illegitimate children?

[Rock Chalk]

Keep dreaming.

Durant can shoot from anywhere, pass, rebound, and handle the ball well, plus he is great in transition and decent enough on defense.

Oden is big, slow, and cant shoot from farther than 2 feet away. he wears down in the 4th quarter and has trouble staying out of foul trouble.

This is a no brainer to me. Oden is one fourth the player that Durant is.

That being said, if NY gets the first pick they will take Oden and leave whoever gets the #2 pick with the best player of the last decade.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Durant is like a stylistic mixture of Garnett, Nowitzki, and McGrady. He'll be a good player, and possibly a very good player.

It might take him longer than Durant to reach that level, but Oden is going to be pretty darn good. He has a great attitude on top of outstanding physical talent and size. If he puts in the work, he's Bill Russell reprised.

[watermock]

WoodPecker on OTH pulled out ping pong balls that looked like chips and allready did the lottery. Memphis.

[Clockwork Orange]

Durant can shoot from anywhere, pass, rebound, and handle the ball well, plus he is great in transition and decent enough on defense.

Oden is big, slow, and cant shoot from farther than 2 feet away. he wears down in the 4th quarter and has trouble staying out of foul trouble.

This is a no brainer to me. Oden is one fourth the player that Durant is.

That being said, if NY gets the first pick they will take Oden and leave whoever gets the #2 pick with the best player of the last decade.

You forgot to mention that Durant played at Texas, which is the only reason you're riding his jock.:~ohyah!:

Oden will go first because he's a true center (a rare commodity in the NBA) who is already a world class shot blocker and whose offensive game will be fine now that he can actually use his right hand.

Durant is an outstanding prospect, but he'll go #2.

[Northman]

Durant can shoot from anywhere, pass, rebound, and handle the ball well, plus he is great in transition and decent enough on defense.

Oden is big, slow, and cant shoot from farther than 2 feet away. he wears down in the 4th quarter and has trouble staying out of foul trouble.

This is a no brainer to me. Oden is one fourth the player that Durant is.

That being said, if NY gets the first pick they will take Oden and leave whoever gets the #2 pick with the best player of the last decade.


It might be a no brainer to you but it doesnt mean he will go first.

[spdirty]

Boston is getting it...guarun-damn-teed.

Memphis should get it though.

[spdirty]

Man I hope Atlanta gets the 1st pick...Id hate to see Oden and Durant in the West.

[Arkansas Bronco]

This has pissed me off why dont they show em catching the balls in stead of reading from envelopes. I am not happy.

[Clockwork Orange]

The league screws the tankers, I love it.

Oden & Durant are coming to the same division as the Nuggets. Even when they're not in the lottery, the Nuggets get ****ed by it. :nono: ;)

[spdirty]

well I guess Stern had to punish Boston for being so obvious about tanking it.

[RhymesayersDU]

The league screws the tankers, I love it.

Oden & Durant are coming to the same division as the Nuggets. Even when they're not in the lottery, the Nuggets get ****ed by it. :nono: ;)

Beat me to it. Can you believe this? The Jazz are a good team, the Blazers and Sonics will obviously improve.... This is so weak.

[Arkansas Bronco]

We (memphis) realy did suck we need a star to save this team. I have a feeling after the agreement runs out this team relocates unless something gets done.

[Clockwork Orange]

Beat me to it. Can you believe this? The Jazz are a good team, the Blazers and Sonics will obviously improve.... This is so weak.

I'll take it just because it's nice to see the teams that tanked not getting rewarded for it.

[Clockwork Orange]

Listening to Mike Evans (a lifelong Celtics fan) have a complete hissy fit on 950 The Fan was worth the price of admission. Hilarious!

Congrats Blazers & Sonics fans. Life in the Western Conference just got even more interesting. :thumbs:

[RhymesayersDU]

I'll take it just because it's nice to see the teams that tanked not getting rewarded for it.

The NW Division is about to get real good, real soon. No more Skitas, please Nuggets. We need to get quality FA's and quality draft picks to move forward.

[Clockwork Orange]

I can't wait to read Bill Simmons' next column. :laugh:

[-Slap-]

Listening to Mike Evans (a lifelong Celtics fan) have a complete hissy fit on 950 The Fan was worth the price of admission. Hilarious!


Bite the wall, Chowder.

[Clockwork Orange]

The Blazers now have a very nice young nucleus with Roy, Aldridge, Jack and now Oden. That has the makings of a very good team for a very long time.

Seattle getting Durant likely means goodbye to Rashard Lewis, who is looking at a hefty contract this offseason.

[27atwater]

You can play without centers in the NBA these days. The position is not as important as it used to be. Durant brings multiple skills. For example, I could definately see the Celtics go Durant over Oden. The Suns have the Hawks pick, trade Marion & move up which I could see take Durant over Oden(of'course lucky balls bouncing the Suns way). Minnesota should take Oden if they keep KG. If they move KG, take Durant.

That's only true bcuz the centers nowadays are garbage. if oden ends up being like Robinson and the Hoya ends up like Ewing...you'll see real quick how important star centers are.

[RhymesayersDU]

The Blazers now have a very nice young nucleus with Roy, Aldridge, Jack and now Oden. That has the makings of a very good team for a very long time.

Seattle getting Durant likely means goodbye to Rashard Lewis, who is looking at a hefty contract this offseason.

Is Rashard a free agent or can they trade him and get another player?

[27atwater]

The Blazers now have a very nice young nucleus with Roy, Aldridge, Jack and now Oden. That has the makings of a very good team for a very long time.

Seattle getting Durant likely means goodbye to Rashard Lewis, who is looking at a hefty contract this offseason.

That sux for Seattle. If Portland takes Oden, Seattle barely improves. they get the Longhorn, but will lose lewis to FA. Now if Oden drops to them they really need to get Lewis resigned.

[Northman]

The BlAZERS GET THE #1 PICK! WOOOOHOOOOO!

[Clockwork Orange]

Is Rashard a free agent or can they trade him and get another player?

From what I've read, it's looking like they'll try to pull a sign & trade with Lewis. I've heard that Miami is interested.

[27atwater]

Is Rashard a free agent or can they trade him and get another player?

Like Vince Carter, Lewis figures to exercise an opt-out clause in his contract. The sweet-shooting small forward, who turns 28 in August, has averaged at least 20 points a game the past three seasons, including a career-high 22.4 in 2006-07.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0705/gallery.nba.2007players/content.4.html

[WABronco]

Listening to Mike Evans (a lifelong Celtics fan) have a complete hissy fit on 950 The Fan was worth the price of admission. Hilarious!

Congrats Blazers & Sonics fans. Life in the Western Conference just got even more interesting. :thumbs:

Wooohohoo!

I love it!

This is great for Seattle...hopefully Durant/Oden will create enough buzz to get the whole arena thing in gear.

[Rock Chalk]

It might be a no brainer to you but it doesnt mean he will go first.

Oden will be a good but never great player.

Durant is a bonafide superstar already.

How any GM cant see this is frickin maddening. I watched pretty much every game with those two in it and there is no way in hell I would take Oden over Durant. I wouldnt even take Oden in the top 3. The NBA game will wear him out even faster than the College game did.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The Blazers now have a very nice young nucleus with Roy, Aldridge, Jack and now Oden. That has the makings of a very good team for a very long time.

Roy is class. Oden is class. Aldridge is class. I'm happy for the Blazers because those poor fans have suffered through the insufferable buffoonery of the worst the league has to offer for years.

Roy has the versatile offensive game to be a menace with the extreme power of Aldridge and Oden in the post. They will have two players who can score and defend inside. It wont even be fair. Not quite Duncan and Robinson, but it wont have to be. It was funny to see Roy's eyes light up whent they got in the top 2.

Give that team 4-5 years and they will be dominant if Oden is half of what he projects to be.

Seattle getting Durant likely means goodbye to Rashard Lewis, who is looking at a hefty contract this offseason.

I dont think they'll let him go.

There is a player I like who cant seem to get healthy on the Sonics. That kid Robert Swift has a legit post game and the athleticism to make extraordinary post plays. He has been injured for two seasons off and on, so it might have impeded his development, but he's a player to watch.

[NFLBRONCO]

More strength in the west

[Natedog24]

The BlAZERS GET THE #1 PICK! WOOOOHOOOOO!


:thumbs:

Go Blazers!!

Very good day for a sports fan in the Northwest.

[DeusExManning]

Allen paid the most money to put his chip in the freezer.

[NFLBRONCO]

If these 2 guys live up to hype poor Nuggets farther down the pole in the West.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Nice I went to sleep with 2 votes for portland then the I guess all the NBA people came back out and voted portland last night post lottery. :thumbs:

[Taco John]

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE


HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAW!



We're LOVING it here in the Portland area... This is just the break that the Blazers needed!

[BroncoBuff]

Nice!!

The Sonics get #2! (Now if only they stay in Seattle and don't move to Vegas...)


Oh - Me, and a surprising number of guys, beat the odds and PREDICTED THE WINNER! ;D

[Northman]

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE


HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAW!



We're LOVING it here in the Portland area... This is just the break that the Blazers needed!



Yeeeeeeeeeep. :yayaya:

[RhymesayersDU]

Do you guys really believe it's rigged?

I mean, I know there's evidence. But come on, if this were rigged, both stars would have gone East. Even if Stern wanted to teach Boston a lesson, the overall competition of the league has to be more important. Not only that, but Boston is a big market.

Unless this is reverse psychology, Stern making it seem unrigged so I'd believe wasn't.... Spooky.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Do you guys really believe it's rigged?

I mean, I know there's evidence. But come on, if this were rigged, both stars would have gone East. Even if Stern wanted to teach Boston a lesson, the overall competition of the league has to be more important. Not only that, but Boston is a big market.

Unless this is reverse psychology, Stern making it seem unrigged so I'd believe wasn't.... Spooky.

Yes. I think that the NBA is rigged to a certain degree. I am convinced.

What astonishes me is how bold they are about it. Stern flaunts his power.

[azbroncfan]

The Blazers now have a very nice young nucleus with Roy, Aldridge, Jack and now Oden. That has the makings of a very good team for a very long time.

Seattle getting Durant likely means goodbye to Rashard Lewis, who is looking at a hefty contract this offseason.


I'm surprised you didn't mention the Blazers best player in ZAC RANDOLPH.

[Clockwork Orange]

I'm surprised you didn't mention the Blazers best player in ZAC RANDOLPH.

They'd dump Randolph tomorrow if they could get someone to take his contract off their hands.

[ludo21]

Blazers should take Durant. He will be the best player out of this draft. They already have a big man in Randolf, who is really underrated.

[epicSocialism4tw]

They'd dump Randolph tomorrow if they could get someone to take his contract off their hands.

Basketball is a thinking athlete's game. I have no idea how Randolph made it to the NBA. Well, he does have a big butt. That made Barkley pretty good.

I have a sinking feeling that Randolph may be playing in Dallas next year. Vomit.

[Clockwork Orange]

Basketball is a thinking athlete's game. I have no idea how Randolph made it to the NBA. Well, he does have a big butt. That made Barkley pretty good.

I have a sinking feeling that Randolph may be playing in Dallas next year. Vomit.

He's also one of the final holdovers from the "Jailblazers" days that the organization wants to separate itself from.

[RhymesayersDU]

Randolph did average 24 and 10 last year.

Granted, bad team, but still.

In other news:

The Charlotte Bobcats have chosen Dallas assistant Sam Vincent as their new coach, a person familiar with the search said Wednesday.

The Orlando Magic announced Wednesday that Brian Hill will not return as head coach, but will have the option to return to the organization in another capacity.

[usedupbraids]

if Memphis gets oden they will be a good team with a nice front Line

[azbroncfan]

if Memphis gets oden they will be a good team with a nice front Line

and how are they going to do that? Do you even watch sports?

[usedupbraids]

and how are they going to do that? Do you even watch sports?

swear to god they not going to have a good front line.. just say i swear please

[epicSocialism4tw]

if Memphis gets oden they will be a good team with a nice front Line

Dude, I hate to be the one to break it to ya, but Memphis ain't getting Oden.

[usedupbraids]

Dude, I hate to be the one to break it to ya, but Memphis ain't getting Oden.

just a if i dont even care about memphis....GO LAKERS!!!

[epicSocialism4tw]

He's also one of the final holdovers from the "Jailblazers" days that the organization wants to separate itself from.

Come on, dude. Stop it. I keep telling myself that there is no way Randolph will be traded to Dallas. ;D

[Nuggets4]

OK, I love Durant. He's one of the few people in the world that could convince me to pull for UTerus. That said, there is NO WAY that Oden doesn't go #1, and there's no way anyone should think otherwise. Oden was basically playing at 50-75% all year. Even in the championship game, when he was the best player on the court, he was only at 75-80%.

From Chad Ford's insider column:

*snip*

But when St. Vincent director Ralph Reiff warned that I was in for a surprise, he wasn't kidding.

Oden's agility, flexibility, balance and explosiveness are remarkable for a player his size. He's a 2 guard in a center's body.

Clearly Oden is more than a big stiff who's learned how to play basketball. He's an athlete who happens to be 7 feet tall.

In the span of an hour, there wasn't a drill point guard Mike Conley could do that Oden couldn't do. In the strength department, we'd expect that and more. But in terms of athleticism and agility, you have to see it to believe it.

Remember that ridiculous dunk he tried against Georgetown -- the one when he took off from a little inside the free-throw line? That type of play should be a staple of his NBA game.

Five weeks ago when he started workouts, Oden measured a 38-inch vertical jump with three steps. That's a number just below what guys like Tyrus Thomas and Rudy Gay produced last year. Since then, he's been working on his explosiveness every day, so that number might even improve by the time he's tested in Orlando.

Combine Oden's height, reach and jumping ability, and you have a guy who can touch the 12-3 mark on the backboard -- 2 feet, 3 inches above the rim.

*snip*

Sunday night, after I described Oden's workout to a respected NBA general manager who stands a pretty good chance at getting the No. 1 pick in Tuesday's lottery, the GM had four words for me:

"I told you so."

He continued, "Oden is not just a big guy. He's a big guy with great athleticism and skill. It's what I've been telling you all year. This guy is a lock as the No. 1 pick.

"If Kevin Durant had broken his wrist and come back way early with a cast on his shooting hand, I don't think he would've dominated the Big 12.

"We haven't seen the real Greg Oden yet. What we've seen is 50 percent. That's enough to make him the No. 1 pick.

"If we saw it all, we'd laugh about the Durant comparisons. Don't get me wrong, Durant can play. He may be great. But I'm taking Greg Oden. My guess is every GM in the league will too once they see him up close."

As someone who was more impressed with Durant's college play, I hate to admit it, but the GM may be right. I still have questions about Oden's motor, and I still wonder whether he loves the game like Durant does. I don't know for sure if those skills he shows in workouts will show up in NBA games.

The Durant-Oden debate usually supposes that Durant has the bigger "upside" and Oden is the "safer" pick.

But after watching Oden on Sunday, I have to say that his upside may be bigger than that of anyone else in the draft.

Great Read for anyone with Insider access (http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=DraftWatch-Oden)

[usedupbraids]

ESPN says Portland will take Oden..That means make way for Brandon Roy and Oden which i think will take them to the playoffs in 2 years.

[Northman]

He's also one of the final holdovers from the "Jailblazers" days that the organization wants to separate itself from.

Amen to that.

[Clockwork Orange]

Want to see pure, unadulterated joy? Check out the Blazers draft lottery party.

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[epicSocialism4tw]

Want to see pure, unadulterated joy? Check out the Blazers draft lottery party.



That's great. The Blazers have some awesome fans. That's a basketball town for sure. It's unfortunate that their management had crapped on them with a revolving door from thugdom for so long.

[Northman]

Want to see pure, unadulterated joy? Check out the Blazers draft lottery party.

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/thTIYCXcx90"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/thTIYCXcx90" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

That was fantastic, they we're revved up from the 7th pick on up. Im so glad this happened. Gives me a renewed hope for my Blazers and the NBA in general. Hopefully, this will be the year the tide turns for us.:~ohyah!:

[Clockwork Orange]

I dont think they'll let him go.

They may not have a choice, he's opting out.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2883178

In late February, Rashard Lewis rejected a two-year, $25 million contract extension from the Seattle SuperSonics. Months later, Lewis has taken his rejection a step further.

Lewis has officially opted out of the final two years of his contract on Friday so he can become an unrestricted free agent, as first reported by KRIV in Houston on Friday.

Tony Dutt, Lewis' agent, has made Seattle aware of his client's decision.

"He has decided to opt out and he'll be an unrestricted free agent July 1st," Dutt said, according to KRIV. "We had to do it in writing which we have done already."

The Sonics have one advantage over the rest of the NBA with Lewis now in free agency: They are the only team who can offer him a six-year contract.

"It was in his contract that he could become a free agent. And you can't blame him for wanting to see what's out there," Sonics president of basketball operations Lenny Wilkens said last month. "But that won't stop us from trying to get it done."

When asked if he has been negotiating with the Sonics, despite Seattle not having a general manager or a coach right now, Dutt said, "We've been in contact [with Wilkens]. We'll probably stay in contact on and off until July 1."

Lewis, who has spent his entire nine-year NBA career with the Sonics, opted out of the seven-year, $60M deal he signed before the 2003-2004 season. That means Lewis is walking away from $21M in guaranteed money over the next two years.

In doing so, he becomes one of the NBA's most attractive free agents this summer. The market will include Chauncey Billups, Gerald Wallace and possibly Vince Carter -- if Carter does what Lewis did and opts of out his contract with the New Jersey Nets.

"He's earned that right to be at the top of the market," Dutt said. "I think teams will move pretty quickly to sign him [after July 1]. He is about the top free agent out there."

The 6-foot-10 forward is coming off a career-best year despite missing 22 games with a hand injury. Lewis averaged 22.4 points and 6.6 rebounds a game last season.

"He's excited. At the same time he wants to win. He puts in the time himself and he wants his teammates to do the same. He's just looking for an opportunity, whether he stays in Seattle or if he was to move, to be in a situation where he has an opportunity to win every night," Dutt said.

"I'm excited about where I stand in the NBA," Lewis said last month, immediately after his ninth season in Seattle ended in a 31-51 mess. He turns 28 in August.

Lewis could get offers of five years for perhaps $15 million per year. He said he will give Seattle first opportunity to give him a sweet deal.

"Oh, yeah. I've been here since the team drafted me [in 1998]. They have faith in me," Lewis said last month.

"My heart will always be here -- even if I play somewhere else."

The 2005 All-Star returned from his six-week absence last season to lead the team while All-Star shooter Ray Allen was injured.