Clippers Basketball | Love The Game

[SuperNova854]

They dont need TWill

 

[DoubleDeuce]

Following, nice layout

 

[SuperNova854]

Thanks everyone. More updates later today. Ugh no milk, how am I supposed to eat my cereals....

 

[SuperNova854]

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Top Draft Prospect Blake Griffin Works Out For The Clippers

The Los Angeles Clippers hosted a pre-draft work-out for the prospective number one pick in the 2009 NBA Draft on Saturday, June 6 at the Clippers Practice Facility in Playa Vista.

The consensus top player in the draft, Griffin arrived at the Clippers facility around 2 p.m. to a phalanx of television crews and photographers. After completing a stretching and warm-up session with Clippers Strength and Conditioning Coach Richard Williams, Griffin impressed the Clippers coaching staff during the nearly one hour work-out.

Griffin averaged 22.7 points and 14.4 rebounds per game as a sophomore at the University of Oklahoma in 2008-09, and quickly put his unique skills on display for Clippers General Manager and Head Coach Mike Dunleavy, Assistant Coaches Kim Hughes and Fred Vinson and Assistant General Manager Neil Olshey.

Griffin started off the work-out with lay-ups and continued to show off his jump shot, as well as his athleticism and phenomenal ball control in full court drills that were frequently capped off with acrobatic dunks.

“We saw a really skilled and athletic player today,” said Hughes, who played a primary role in conducting the work-out. “He is a player with an NBA body and NBA skills, and I have no doubt that he will develop more. I feel like he has the ability to be an all-star for sure in the future.”

The 6-foot-10 inch power forward from Edmond, OK was named the Naismith, Wooden and AP Player of the Year in college basketball last season for his dominating performances during his sophomore year. A punishing force inside throughout his college career, Griffin exhibited strong footwork and agility while bringing the ball up court throughout the work-out with the Clippers.

The next step in the draft process for Griffin and the Clippers will take place on Thursday, June 25 during the NBA Draft at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, where the Clippers own the number one selection in the draft. ​

 

[SuperNova854]

Dunleavy on Griffin's Workout

On Blake Griffin's workout...
“In this case we thought it was important to do something a little different with Blake. I think because of the clear statute he has in this draft, it was really important for our fans and the media to see the potential player we might pick. The last part was something you definitely don’t see, a 6’10 guy with big hands and his length dribbling basketballs as well as he did.”

On the personality of Blake Griffin...
“Unless you spend a lot of time with a player, it is hard to know their personality and characteristics. Blake is a tremendous talent and an even better kid. His maturity and mindset leave nothing to be desired, and he has a strong work ethic. I really cannot say enough about what a great kid he is and how well he fits in to any program.”

On the Clippers and another first-round draft pick...
“The more I see the new kids who are entering the draft this year, the more I like them. Getting this first round draft pick was really important to this team, and we needed it. With a pick like this, you typically keep it.”

On Blake Griffin and the Clippers...
“Blake [Griffin] is a type of kid who would fit into any type of system. One of the things I discussed with Blake [Griffin] is his potential to play three spots, the three, four and five. The things you really cannot see in a one-on-one workout like this is the way he competes and his physical energy—and that is part of what is so special about him.”

On Blake Griffin’s adjustment to NBA play...
“I do not think the conditioning or the physical aspect of the games will be an issue for Blake. I think he will face the typical issues most newcomers face. He is going to be part of a few different systems on the court, and he will have to learn some of the terminology and placements. There is a lot for a new player to learn in that regard. He will also be playing with bigger guys than he is used to. Some guys pick things up faster than others, but I do not think Blake will have a problem adjusting to any of it.”

On a potential position for Blake Griffin...
“You all saw him. He has a good enough mid-range shot that he needs to be guarded, and he definitely is not broke shot-wise. For now, the best thing to do is to see him play and then go from there.”

On the improvement of Blake Griffin...
“He says he needs to improve on all aspects of his game. Obviously, the more range he has the better he will be, but that is the case with most basketball players. His predominant strengths are his speed and quickness. He has a good first step, big hands and a strong finish at the rim. I like his mechanics, and there are certain things about his shot that need to be improved, and he will work on them.” ​

 

[SuperNova854]

Griffin on His Workout

On today’s performance...
“I wish that I could have shot a little better but overall it was good. I love the facility out here and I think it went well.”

On the opportunity of becoming a Clipper...
“I am very excited about the possibility of becoming a Clipper. I am going into it just like everyone else. If this ends up being the place for me I would be very excited.”

On working out in front of crowd...
“I was not expecting this many people but it was good. Hopefully we will have more people than this at our games.”

On his ball handling skills...
“When I was in fifth grade I played on the eighth grade team and I played point guard back then. So I was no always the biggest guy so I had to learn to do different things from different positions.”

On meeting with Coach Mike Dunleavy...
“From what I heard we went to the best steakhouses in town and I did not order a steak but other than that it went great. I was able to talk to them and get to know them a little. They helped me get used to the city.”

On meeting with Coach Mike Dunleavy...
“We did not really get into the draft at all. Our conversations were more about getting to know each other. We did not really get into their plans at all but maybe in the upcoming weeks we can get into that more.”

On his role for the Clippers...
“Right now I am just looking to come in and fill a gap that they do not have. They have a great group of veterans and a great group of young guys. I think that if I am here that we can definitely turn around and start winning.”

On being the No. 1 pick...
“It would mean a lot to me. This is something that I have dreamt about as long as I knew what the NBA Draft was. For it to be so close is kind of surreal but it has not been something I have thought about too much.”

On the play of the Clippers...
“Obviously last year they had a lot of injuries and their record was not great. But I think if you had those players on the court that moving forward this can be a great team. They have a great cast of veterans and young guys so they can definitely turn around and be successful.”

On meeting other Clippers players...
“I have known DeAndre Jordan and Eric Gordon for awhile. I had a chance to talk to DeAndre (Jordan) this morning and I met Baron Davis during my physical. Baron (Davis) is a great guy and seems like he is working hard.”

On being in Los Angeles...
“It is a little different. No part of Oklahoma is like Los Angeles But I feel like I could get used to it.

On who he models his game after...
“I was a big fan of Shaquille O’Neal when I was little. I also admired guys like Grant Hill and Vince Carter. I admired guys that were consistently good.”

On Oklahoma City not getting the first pick...
“There is no disappointment at all. I would have loved to play in my hometown and be close to my family. But being in the NBA is good enough. One thing that I wanted to do was play in a big city and it does not get much bigger than Los Angeles.”

On his Focus during team workouts...
“I have been doing little more perimeter things. I still need to keep working on my shot and getting the pull up jumper into my repertoire. I need to keep fine tuning my weapons.”

On his shooting performance at the workout...
“My shot has been better I should say. Today was not great for me shooting. I feel like I do not have to rely on my jumper but it had been something that I have been working on. Later on I think that everyone will see that it is improving.” ​

 

[SuperNova854]

Nova's Mock Draft 2.0 (Picks 1-14)


[*]= Indicates last weeks rank

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[1]|

|Name: Blake Griffin Position: PF Height: 6'10 Weight: 248 pounds Age: 20 School: Oklahoma [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Clippers won the lottery and have the privilege of walking away with the clear best player, though they will now have a glut of options in the frontcourt.
Why This Player: Griffin is the clear cut number one pick of the draft. Nobody can measure up to to threaten Griffin for the number one selection. He is just too great of a player to be pushed down to the number two spot.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[2]|

|Name: Hasheem Thabeet Position: C Height: 7'3 Weight: 267 pounds Age: 22 School: Connecticut [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Grizzlies will likely draft the best players available to them with their picks.
Why This Player: Nobody really knows who the Grizzlies will take. They would have loved to win the lottery, but they didn't. Its too early to take Jordan Hill, which means thy need to rely on Thabeet, Harden, and Rubio. Which are all positions they really don't need.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[3]|

|Name: James Harden Position: SG Height: 6'5 Weight: 222 pounds Age: 19 School: Arizona State [/TABLE]Team Needs: With the core set around Durant, Green and Westbrook, the Thunder need high quality bigs and a shooting guard.
Why This Player: With Thabeet gone at number two the Thunder have no real big man to rely on. Hill is too short to play the 5. Rubio doesn't even want to be there meaning they go with Harden. They need a threat at shooting guard that can actually shoot. Plus, A key nucleus of Westbrook, Harden, Durant, and Green will rip up the league in the future.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[7]|

|Name: Ricky Rubio Position: PG Height: 6'4 Weight: 180 pounds Age: 18 Country: Spain [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Kings are set at shooting guard and center, but would particularly like a point guard.
Why This Player: The Kings are looking for a point guard after losing out on winning the number one pick. Rubio hasn't done a single workout, and won't, but GMs are still raving about his game play. Its a safe bet for the Kings, especially since Rubio will actually want to play there.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[5]|

|Name: Jonny Flynn Position: PG Height: 6'0 Weight: 196 pounds Age: 20 School: Syracuse [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Wizards top priority should be a classic power forward.
Why This Player: The Wizards need a power forward, but rumor has it that the Wizards management doesn't like what they see in Hill. They need help at the point guard position and if they decide to keep the pick they want a guy who can go into the team and deliver. Flynn is the most NBA ready out of all the US point guards available. Flynn might start backing up Arenas, but over time he and Arenas could turn into a deadly backcourt.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[4]|

|Name: Tyreke Evans Position: G Height: 6'5 Weight: 221 pounds Age: 19 School: Memphis [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Wolves have a nice foundation with Jefferson and Love up front, but need upgrades at both backcourt positions.
Why This Player: The Wolves need help in the backcourt badly. While upgrading their frontcourt would be nice, unfortunately they won't have a chance at getting Thabeet unless they trade up. Tyreke is a great fit for the Wolves since he is a drive to the basket type of guy. If he can learn to knock down a jumper, he could turn into quite the NBA player.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[10]|

|Name: Jordan Hill Position: PF Height: 6'10 Weight: 232 pounds Age: 21 School: Arizona [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Warriors remain desperate for a low-post scorer in the mold of a Paul Millsap, but could find a big point guard to pair with Monta Ellis.
Why This Player: The Warriors wouldn't let a guy like Jordan Hill drop any further. They have been looking for a valid post presence for years and Hill is just the guy they are looking for. They could also draft a pint guard like Holiday or Jennings here, but word on the street is that Ellis would bolt the second he heard the Warriors drafted a point guard.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[8]|

|Name: Stephen Curry Position: PG Height: 6'3 Weight: 181 pounds Age: 21 School: Davidson [/TABLE]Team Needs: Knowing they won't have their first round pick in 2010, the Knicks need a home run in 2009. They should focus on getting a point guard or an athletic shotblocker.
Why This Player: Curry could go as early as four, but chances are that he will likely drop to the Knicks at eight. Curry has wanted to go to the Knicks ever since he left Davidson and now he gets his dream. Getting Curry could also mean no more Nate Robinson, the 5'9 freak athlete who thrived in D'Antoni's system.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[6]|

|Name: DeMar DeRozan Position: SG/SF Height: 6'6 Weight: 211 pounds Age: 19 School: USC [/TABLE]Team Needs: A scoring wing is high on Toronto's wish list.
Why This Player: The Raptors are in need of a scoring wing since trading Kapono. But passing on such a freak athlete AND has loads of potential as DeRozan has is a huge mistake. Although the Raptors would prefer a scoring machine like Wayne Ellington, DeRozan can be developed into a shooting machine.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[9]|

|Name: Brandon Jennings Position: PG Height: 6'1 Weight: 170 pounds Age: 19 Country: Italy [/TABLE]Team Needs: With a glut of options available, the Bucks will likely improve their backcourt.
Why This Player: Although a monster post player like Hill would be nice, the truth is that Sessions might not be returning next season. With Jennings they have a great replacement that can easily turn into a star in the league. Others possibilities here are Jeff Teague and Jrue Holiday.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[19]|

|Name: DeJaun Blair Position: PF Height: 6'6 Weight: 277 pounds Age: 20 School: Pittsburgh [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Nets found a stable center in last year's draft and still need to find replacements for Richard Jefferson and Kenyon Martin.
Why This Player: The Nets have a slim void at the PF spot. The Nets might start considering that Sean Williams is a bust and go with another bigman. Other possibilities here are Gerald Henderson, Earl Clark, and Wayne Ellington.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[11]|

|Name: Gerald Henderson Position: SG Height: 6'5 Weight: 215 pounds Age: 21 School: Duke [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Bobcats are in a position where they probably need to focus strictly on taking the best player available, but an off guard is a position of need.
Why This Player: The Bobcats could use Henderson's athletism in the future.They have a gap at the two and the five spots and could think that Henderson is a better fit then Mullens.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[14]|

|Name: Jrue Holiday Position: PG Height: 6'4 Weight: 199 pounds Age: 19 School: UCLA [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Pacers, like so many other teams, should focus on the best player available given that they have pieces of equal value at most positions.
Why This Player: The players will draft the best player there, but the organization has said that they would prefer to draft a point guard. Jrue Holiday has been outstanding at workouts and could go as early as four. Teague is also a possibility here.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[13]|

|Name: Jeff Teague Position: PG Height: 6'2 Weight: 175 pounds Age: 21 School: Wake Forest [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Suns were once set for many years to come, but now need to address every position long term.
Why This Player: The Suns need to face the fact that Nash might not be coming back next season. They need a young point guard to take over the reigns once he's gone.
​

 

[SuperNova854]

Picks 15-30 tomorrow

 

[SuperNova854]

Thanks. Somethings wrong with my computer I had the page where i made picks 15-30 up so i just turned off my screen, i woke up and it was all funky and some thing was sup talking about the width. I accidently clicked out of it and have been trying to figure how to get it back. I clicked a few things and now everything i big and the font is in bad quality. So bad that it gives me a headache eveyr time i look a it.

 

[SuperNova854]

Picks 15-30 coming up

 

[SuperNova854]

Nova's Mock Draft 2.0 (Picks 15-30)


[*]= Indicates last weeks rank

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[15]|

|Name: Earl Clark Position: SF/PF Height: 6'10 Weight: 226 pounds Age: 21 School: Louisville [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Pistons are a franchise at a crossroads and so they will be a tough team to predict, but could probably use the most help in the frontcourt.
Why This Player: Rumors have been flying on if the Pistons need to rebuild. Plus, Rasheed Wallace is unlikely to return to the team next season making Clark a perfect pick for them. He can play the three or the four.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[16]|

|Name: James Johnson Position: S/PF Height: 6'8 Weight: 257 pounds Age: 22 School: Wake Forest [/TABLE]Team Needs: With Derrick Rose now the franchise's centerpiece, Chicago will look for talent that will fit best around him, especially on the wing and possibly even at point guard.
Why This Player: The Bulls don't really need a upgrade at any position. They are a young team that is hungry for a championship. Getting Johnson will give them a nice combo forward that surprisingly has great speed for a man of his size.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[17]|

|Name: Ty Lawson Position: PG Height: 6'0 Weight: 197 pounds Age: 21 School: North Carolina [/TABLE]Team Needs: Regardless of what happens to Andre Miller, the Sixers need a young, true point guard.
Why This Player: The Sixers need a true point guard that can contribute immediately. Lawson fits in perfectly for the ball club and can make an instant impact coming of a NCAA Championship.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[21]|

|Name: Terrence Williams Position: SG Height: 6'6 Weight: 213 pounds Age: 22 School: Louisville [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Wolves have a nice foundation with Jefferson and Love up front, but need upgrades at both backcourt positions.
Why This Player: Williams is an athletic guard/forward that can contribute to any team instantly. He can go from anywhere from the 7th pick to the Hornets at 21. After snagging Tyreke the Wolves will need another athletic guard to help in the backcourt.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[12]|

|Name: B.J. Mullens Position: C Height: 7'0 Weight: 258 pounds Age: 19 School: Ohio State [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Hawks will likely look for a point guard again this year, but will also be compelled to look at center prospects.
Why This Player: Mullens can go as early as 12, but many teams will likely pass on Mullens because of his limited action at Ohio State. He has tons of potential and could maybe push Horfod back to his natural power forward position one day.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[20]|

|Name: Tyler Hansbrough Position: PF Height: 6'9 Weight: 234 pounds Age: 23 School: North Carolina [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Jazz are likely to look at the power forward position in the draft, but could also select a backup point guard.
Why This Player: Hansbrough might be a stretch here as Hansbrough's stock has plummeted over the last couple of weeks. But, with Boozer likely leaving the Jazz this offseason the Jazz will need all the help they can get at the power forward position.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[?]|

|Name: Wayne Ellington Position: SG Height: 6'5 Weight: 202 pounds Age: 21 School: North Carolina [/TABLE]Team Needs: A high-level scorer at the wing position is a definite need for the Hornets, who rely on Chris Paul for everything on the offensive end.
Why This Player: With Williams likey gone, the Hornets could go with Ellington. Although the Hornets will most likely sell this pick like in the past, Ellington is a high scoring guard and can be a huge future threat in the league one day.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[18]|

|Name: Eric Maynor Position: PG Height: 6'3 Weight: 164 pounds Age: 22 School: VCU [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Mavericks need to get younger in the backcourt and will look at both the point and shooting guard positions.
Why This Player: The Mavericks have said that they have liked Calathes, but with a player like Maynor still on the board, it will hard to not go with him. Maynor was dominant at VCU this season and will be a great future replacement for Kidd.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[?]|

|Name: Chase Budinger Position: SG/SF Height: 6'7 Weight: 206 pounds Age: 21 School: Arizona [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Kings are set at shooting guard and center, but would particularly like a point guard.
Why This Player: After snagging Rubio at four, the Kings will likey look to update their backup SG and SF positions. Budinger can play the two and the three, and even some of the four.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[29]|

|Name: Austin Daye Position: SF Height: 6'11 Weight: 192 pounds Age: 21 School: Gonzaga [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Blazers have depth and talent at every position, but would welcome more options at point guard, small forward and a pit bull of a power forward.
Why This Player: With no real power forward available the Blazers will likely go with Daye because of his height and defensive capabilities. He can be turned into a threat and if he worked out more he could be a threat at the four too.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[23] |

|Name: Victor Claver Position: SF Height: 6'9 Weight: 236 pounds Age: 21 Country: Spain [/TABLE]Team Needs: With the core set around Durant, Green and Westbrook, the Thunder need high quality bigs and a shooting guard.
Why This Player: With no center being worthy of a 1st round pick left the Thunder will look to update others positions, such as the small forward. Claver was predicted to be a lottery pick if he went to the 2010 draft and could be a huge steal for the Thunder here. They could always keep him in Spain for a coupe years so he could develop some more.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[26]|

|Name: Sam Young Position: SF Height: 6'6 Weight: 223 pounds Age: 24 School: Pittsburgh [/TABLE]Team Needs: With Derrick Rose now the franchise's centerpiece, Chicago will look for talent that will fit best around him, especially on the wing and possibly even at point guard.
Why This Player: The Bulls have reportedly shown alot of interest in Sam Young. Young can be a versatile player and could help at the small forward position for the Bulls. The Bulls could also take Calathes or Collison here.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[25]|

|Name: Derrick Brown Position: SF Height: 6'8 Weight: 222 pounds Age: 21 School: Xavier [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Grizzlies will likely draft the best players available to them with their picks.
Why This Player: Brown is a special player. He can play both forward positions and can shoot the lights out. He would be an excellent backup for Rudy Gay.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[27]|

|Name: DaJuan Summers Position: SF Height: 6'8 Weight: 243 pounds Age: 21 School: Georgetown [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Grizzlies will likely draft the best players available to them with their picks.
Why This Player: With DeMarre Carrol's stock dropping the Wolves would take the bets player available. Summers didn't have that great of a year at Georgetown but can still develop into a great player..

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[22]|

|Name: Nick Calathes Position: PG Height: 6'5 Weight: 185 pounds Age: 20 School: Florida [/TABLE]Team Needs: Depending on what they expect to happen to Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza in free agency, the Lakers will need to potentially need to address the small forward position. Regardless, they need more help on the wings.
Why This Player: Calathes had a great season for Florida last year and could contribute to the Lakers alot. It would help grow their young nucleus even more.

[table="head;autonumtitle=rank;width=55em"]Team|Pick|Player|Vitals

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[30]|

|Name: Taj GIbson Position: PF Height: 6'10 Weight: 214 pounds Age: 24 School: USC [/TABLE]Team Needs: The Cavaliers will probably focus on prospects that can make an immediate impact in 09-10.
Why This Player: Gibson is just the athletic power forward the Cavs are looking for. He will be an instant impact for the team.

​

 

[SuperNova854]

I can't believe I forgot Budinger and Ellingotn in my first mock lol

 

[SuperNova854]

The thing about Daye is, that he looks good at first, but when you start to see his workouts and his strength, he doesn't look as good any more. He is like a mcdonalds bickmack burger. Int he commercials, ti looks so luscious and tasty and awesome. But when you take that first, and unfortunately your last, bite, you realize it was a fraud, and everything you ever dreamed of wasn't real. You see what I'm saying?

 

[SuperNova854]

i might have some updates later. ive been busy

 

[SuperNova854]

Clippers Take Griffin #1

The Los Angeles Clippers selected University of Oklahoma forward Blake Griffin with the number one overall selection in the 2009 NBA Draft, held this evening at the WAMU Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
A dominant power forward and a commanding physical presence, Griffin was the consensus National Player of the Year following his sophomore season. The Naismith, Wooden and AP Player of the Year, Griffin averaged 22.7 points and 14.4 rebounds for the Sooners.

“Obviously, we are extremely excited with the selection of Blake,” Clippers General Manager and Head Coach Mike Dunleavy said. “The night of the lottery, when we got the lucky bounce that we had hoped for, it was jubilation. We are getting and incredible player and an incredible person with an impeccable work ethic.”

The 20-year old Oklahoma City native dominated college basketball last season, winning every major postseason player of the year award. Griffin led the nation in rebounding (504 rebounds) and double-doubles (30) and helped the Sooners advance to the Elite Eight in the 2009 NCAA Tournament.

“Blake is a guy who we plan on having in L.A. for many years to come,” Dunleavy said. “We think he is going to be a great, exciting addition to our ball club.”

The 6-foot-10, 251 pound Griffin was named to the All-Big 12 Team as a freshman in 2007-08, and continued to improve last season, finishing second in the nation in field goal percentage (.659) and 11th in scoring (22.7 ppg). Griffin’s 504 rebounds last season was the highest season rebound total in college basketball since Larry Bird grabbed 505 boards in 1978-79.

“We are pleased with the player Blake is right now,” Dunleavy said. “And we are also really pleased with his upside.”​

 

[SuperNova854]

Lawler's Law: The first team to 100 points wins the game.
by Ralph Lawler - Thursday, June 25, 2009 @ 5:38 pm

Today marked the third in the Clippers' 25 years in Los Angeles that the team owned the first overall pick in the NBA Draft. There was no hesitation, no consternation, no deliberation this time. They didn’t need the league allowed five minutes to decide. Head Coach and General Manager Mike Dunleavy immediately barked into the hot-line phone to New York : "BLAKE GRIFFIN."

It took the league the full five minutes to announce the pick to a nationwide TV audience, but the local draft room was filled with smiles and handshakes.

When Commissioner David Stern announced the pick on ESPN, the Clipper Draft room erupted in happy applause. The coach immediately went on the air on ESPN and then moved downstairs to address the local media. He was clearly anxious to get back upstairs where he hoped his day’s work was not over.

The team would love to acquire a later pick in the first round. It was clear the ballclub was not in a "Salary Dump" mode. They turned down more than one opportunity to give up a salary without getting substantial basketball help in return.

But this is now official, the consensus College Player of the Year from Oklahoma will be a Clipper. No. 1 in the land has reason to be surprised. Some say this is a one-man draft. While that may be something of an over statement, but Griffin is the one sure thing in the 2009 Draft.

Blake Griffin will be in Los Angeles on Monday to greet the media.

The team was headquartered in the sparkling new Training Center in Playa Vista. A large throng of media was clustered downstairs on the basketball court while the upstairs conference room was packed with the team’s brain-trust headed by team President Andy Roeser, Dunleavy, his top aide Neil Olshey and his full basketball staff. Club owner Donald T. Sterling and his family were on hand in addition to the Clipper training and medical staff.

The TV cameras were whining away when it was time for Dunleavy to announce his pick. It is a vision that will serve this team well for many years to come.​

 

[SuperNova854]

The Griffin Era Underway in L.A.

NEW YORK -- Blake Griffin went No. 1 and then the Draft really started.

Griffin going first to the Los Angeles Clippers was a no-brainer. Second is where the fun began Thursday night and where Ricky Rubio began to fall. Memphis, rumored to be possibly dealing its pick, snapped up Connecticut center Hasheem Thabeet at No. 2. "I was surprised," admitted Thabeet, who recently canceled a workout for the Grizzlies.

Oklahoma City went for backcourt help, but away from the Spanish phenom and selected Arizona State scorer James Harden third. It was thought Rubio wouldn't get past Sacramento at No. 4. No dice as the Kings opted for Memphis guard Tyreke Evans.

Rubio sat through it all with a nervous smile as his sizable buyout from Spanish club DKV Joventut grew more daunting. Minnesota finally gave the 18-year-old showman reason to exhale with the first of the Timberwolves' four first-round picks. Rubio is trying to negotiate down the reported $6.6 million buyout. (The difference in salary on a rookie contract between the second and fifth picks is about $3.2 million over the three-year life of the deal.) "If necessary, I'm going to pay the buyout," Rubio said. "We are closer to an agreement with [Joventut], so we are going to see."

Other first-round notables included Golden State snapping up Stephen Curry at No. 7, one spot before New York, and Tyler Hansbrough going higher than expected to Indiana at No. 13. Brandon Jennings, initially not in the Green Room because concerns he was falling in the Draft, ended up going 10th to Milwaukee. Jennings made his way to the WaMu Theater from his hotel not long after.

Knicks fans in attendance at the theater voiced their displeasure in a way only New Yorkers can when Curry went off the board. The NCAA scoring champ from Davidson could have been a perfect fit for Mike D'Antoni's system. The local rowdies were somewhat pacified with Arizona power forward Jordan Hill at eighth. "That type of crowd, if they don't get what they want," Hill said, "they will give a couple of boos. But there was some that wanted me."

The first round proved point guard heavy, with 12 playmakers going in the first 27 picks. Minnesota took three -- Rubio, Jonny Flynn and Ty Lawson -- but is trading Lawson to Denver. Depending on what happens with a pair of free-agent starters in Philadelphia and Atlanta, Jrue Holiday and Jeff Teague, respectively, may take over the quarterbacking duties sooner rather than later.

The Clippers never wavered on their decision to select Griffin after bucking the odds to win the ping-pong derby 37 days ago. Now all the consensus collegiate player of the year has to do is play like top pick in the Draft and jumpstart the lottery regulars. Griffin joins a team with a logjam in the frontcourt, but the Clippers will make room. "Hopefully I can bring something they don't have," Griffin said. "I know they have a lot of great players, but at the same time I'm excited about the opportunity."

While the Draft took center stage, there's been plenty of trade activity outside of Madison Square Garden lately. Shaquille O'Neal, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson headlined the changes of address in a series of seemingly one-sided trades that are reshaping contenders going into next season.

The biggest, in terms of sheer size and quote-ability, is Shaq's arrival as LeBron James' new sidekick in Cleveland. When the Cavaliers fell short of the MVP Finals, it was obvious the MVP needed more help. The question is whether James gets enough from a 37-year-old who experienced a career rebirth last season and is also headed to his fifth team. "It is a really unique and rare opportunity to bring in a player of Shaq's caliber," Cleveland general manager Danny Ferry said. "We are excited to see how his presence, experience and play positively impacts our team."

The Magic knocked James and the Cavs out in the Eastern Conference finals, and they're not standing pat. Carter, one of the top shooting guards of the past decade, is headed to his hometown of Orlando for a package that includes starters Rafer Alston and Courtney Lee. The defending champion Lakers are also siege in the West, as rival San Antonio added a high-scoring complement to Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker in Jefferson.

The Clippers likely won't be challenging their cross-town neighbors right away, but Griffin is a start. The 6-foot-10 All-American follows Derrick Rose (Chicago) as the latest No. 1 pick in the 44-year history of the Draft. The Clippers would be quite content with Griffin following in Rose's footsteps as the rookie of the year. Other notable top selections in recent years include LeBron (2003), last season's defensive player of the year (Dwight Howard) and perennial All-Star Yao Ming (2002).

The Clippers just have to hope their fortunes have turned around from previous No. 1s. L.A.'s other franchise selected Michael Olowokandi in 1998 and Danny Manning in 1988. Not exactly the Spurs' luck in snagging David Robinson in 1987 and Tim Duncan a decade later.

Griffin isn't concerned with the Clippers' checkered history and limited success -- they've made the Playoffs only four times since moving to Los Angeles in 1984. Instead, the first Oklahoma product to go No. 1 is ready to be part of the brighter days ahead. "I am. I'm not worried about anything that's happened in the past," said Griffin, who averaged 22.7 points and 14.4 rebounds during his second and last season at OU. "I wasn't a part of that. A lot of the guys that are there now weren't a part of it. We're only looking forward to the future."​

 

[SuperNova854]

Monday, June 29, 2009

Monday, June 29, 2009

The Clippers Introduce Blake Griffin

The Los Angeles Clippers held an introductory press conference for No. 1 draft pick Blake Griffin at the team's Training Center in Playa Vista, CA on Monday, June 29th.

CLIPPERS HEAD COACH MIKE DUNLEAVY:
"Thank you all so much for coming. This is a very exciting day for us. We finally have the opportunity to introduce Blake [Griffin] to the city of Los Angeles. The greater news is that we were in the gym Saturday and this morning, and things went very well. This is the first off-season that we have had this training facility open for our young guys like Eric Gordon, DeAndre Jordan, Mike Taylor and Al Thornton. I cannot say how happy I was to be in Barcelona scouting and to hear the news of the Clippers getting the first pick in the draft. Hearing that allowed me to sleep easily and to head back home. We are very excited to add Blake [Griffin] to our team and happy to have his parents here in support of him as well."
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​

 

[SuperNova854]

Blake Griffin Photos
[media]http://www.nba.com/media/clippers/bgpc_090629_14.jpg[/media][media]http://www.nba.com/media/clippers/bgpc_090629_16.jpg[/media][media]http://www.nba.com/media/clippers/bgpc_090629_17.jpg[/media][media]http://www.nba.com/media/clippers/bgpc_090629_19.jpg[/media][media]http://www.nba.com/media/clippers/bgpc_090629_20.jpg[/media]

 

[SuperNova854]

The Clippers Introduce Blake Griffin

The Los Angeles Clippers held an introductory press conference for No. 1 draft pick Blake Griffin at the team's Training Center in Playa Vista, CA on Monday, June 29th.

CLIPPERS HEAD COACH MIKE DUNLEAVY:
"Thank you all so much for coming. This is a very exciting day for us. We finally have the opportunity to introduce Blake [Griffin] to the city of Los Angeles. The greater news is that we were in the gym Saturday and this morning, and things went very well. This is the first off-season that we have had this training facility open for our young guys like Eric Gordon, DeAndre Jordan, Mike Taylor and Al Thornton. I cannot say how happy I was to be in Barcelona scouting and to hear the news of the Clippers getting the first pick in the draft. Hearing that allowed me to sleep easily and to head back home. We are very excited to add Blake [Griffin] to our team and happy to have his parents here in support of him as well."
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​

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