If I had to sum up this year's draft in one word: unpredictable. Mock drafts across the country were blown up, if not after the first five picks, then the first 10 picks. I will highlight some players I feel good about, some "project" players and players I feel were underrated and will make solid contributions.
Here are my "sure guys": Blake Griffin, James Harden, Jonny Flynn, Terence Williams, Tyreke Evans
Let's start with the #1 pick. I'm sure Clippers lost no sleep over this. At worst, I see Blake Griffin being a stronger Antonio McDyess player and at best, I see him being a mix of Karl Malone & Tim Duncan. He doesn't have near the footwork of Duncan, but he can put the ball on the floor a bit and is also much more athletic. He will be a Rookie of the Year candidate and a solid starter for years to come. 95% of players have weaknesses and Griffin's is low post work, but he can only improve from here on out.
Project Players: Chase Budinger, Jordan Hill
Underrated: DeJaun Blair (steal of the draft IMO)
12/4/09 Update: So ya, that was almost six months late (time of creating blog really) and I still like all my picks, except Terence Williams. Griffin is coming off an injury. Williams is developing slower than I thought. He's a bit of a tweener, not good enough to be a great rookie SG and also not a great passer. At least yet.
Biggest surprise thus far has to be Brandon Jennings, even though his shot is falling off lately. If the Bucks make the playoffs, he's a major reason why.
