1998 NBA Draft

  1. LA Clippers:
    Michael Olowokandi (Pacific) 7-0/265
    The Clips made a last minute decision to pick him over Bibby. He's a risk, but perhaps the only legitimate impact center in the draft. He's put up both big numbers in rebounding (11.1) and scoring (21.8) as a senior, improving every year. Michael signed with Kinder Bologna of the Italian League on a one year deal worth 3 million, he was let out of the contract on January 25, 1999 to be allowed to sign with an NBA team. Bologna was disappointed with his numbers and he was not completely healthy. The Clippers signed him to a four year deal worth 15 million dollars with the fourth year as the team option. His rookie season was unspectacular at best, but did have some bright spots. He's had a much better second year. On September 23, 2002 restricted free agent Michael Olowokandi accepted the LA Clippers' 1 year, $6,061,213 qualifying offer. On July 16, 2003 Minnesota signed Michael Olowokandi to a 3 year, $16,226,100 contract. On August 18, 2003 Dallas traded Nick Van Exel, Avery Johnson, Evan Eschmeyer, Popeye Jones, and Antoine Rigaudeau to Golden State for Antawn Jamison, Danny Fortson, Jiri Welsch, and Chris Mills. On October 2, 2006 Boston signed Michael to a non-guaranteed contract.

    Olowokandi's Stats

    PPGRPGAPGBlkPG
    1998-998.97.90.61.2
    1999-009.88.20.51.8
    2000-018.56.40.61.3
    2001-0211.18.91.11.8
    2002-0312.39.11.32.2
    2003-046.55.70.61.6
    Career (thru '04)9.57.70.71.6
  2. Vancouver:
    Mike Bibby (Arizona) 6-2/180
    *The Grizz replace Antonio Daniels, with arguably the best prospect in the draft. He was only a sophomore too...when he averaged 17.2 points, 5.7 assists and 2.4 steals. It looks like the underclassmen will be dominant once again. Sean Elliot was previously the highest pick from Arizona, at #3 in 1989. He signed a four year contract worth ten million dollars, with the fourth year as the team's option. Although he's not the most stellar rookie in 1999, he's probably gonna have a long solid NBA career. On August 16, 2002 Sacramento re-signed Mike Bibby to a 7 year, $80.5 million contract.

    Bibby's Stats

    PPGRPGAPGStlPG
    1998-9913.22.76.51.6
    1999-0014.53.78.11.6
    2000-0115.93.78.41.3
    2001-0213.72.85.01.1
    2002-0315.92.75.21.3
    2003-0418.43.45.41.4
    Career (thru '04)15.43.26.51.4

  3. Denver:
    Raef Lafrentz (Kansas) 6-11/240
    Issel liked him, and I guess didn't think Pierce would fit on the team. I have always had Raef as the #1 prospect in this draft, so I think they did good for themselves, its just that I thought Pierce was a lock here. Raef is a solid well-rounded PF averaging 19.8 points, 11.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game...and 54% from the floor. He signed a four year deal worth 9.6 million dollars, with the fourth year as a team option. He started off hot in 1999, before having his season ruined by an injury causing him to have to wait unti next year to show the league all his moves. Raef emerged as one of the top centers in the league, having an arsenal of dangerous inside-outside moves. Dallas coveted the big man, hoping to solidify their center position, becoming unhappy with the Shawn Bradley experiment. On February 21, 2002, in a last minute deal just beating the trade deadline, Dallas sent Tim Hardaway, Juwan Howard and Donnell Harvey plus cash and a first round draft pick in the 2002 draft to Denver for Raef LaFrentz, Nick Van Exel, Avery Johnson and Tariq Abdul-Wahad. On July 30, 2002 Dallas re-signed Raef LaFrentz to a 7 year, $69 million contract. On October 20, 2003, Dallas traded Raef LaFrentz, Jiri Welsch, Chris Mills, a 2004 draft pick (lottery protected) to Boston for Antoine Walker and Tony Delk.

    Lafrentz's Stats

    PPGRPGAPGBlkPG
    1998-9913.87.60.71.4
    1999-0012.47.91.22.2
    2000-0112.97.81.42.7
    2001-0213.57.41.12.7
    2002-039.34.80.81.3
    2003-047.84.61.40.8
    Career (thru '04)11.96.91.12.2

  4. Toronto-traded to GS:
    Antawn Jamison (UNC) 6-9/222
    Although many thought he was slipping, the Consensus College Player of the Year goes at #4, as the second underclassmen. For those keeping track 2 seniors, 2 underclassmen. I called him a traditional #4 pick and I was right. Toronto did trade Jamison's rights to GS for the #5 pick, Vince Carter, and $$$$$$$. He was signed to a four year deal worth 8.67 million bucks, with the fourth year being the team's option. His UNC teammate, Vince Carter, got off to a better start, but we can't give up on Antawn yet. On August 28, 2001 Golden State signed Antawn to a 6 year, over $85 million contract extension. Antawn was named the Sixth Man of the Year in 2004, beating out Al Harrington of Indiana. It was his first season coming off the bench after being traded from Golden State. On August 18, 2003, Jamison was traded to the Dallas Mavericks along with Danny Fortson, Chris Mills and Jiri Welsch in exchange for Evan Eschmeyer, Nick Van Exel, Avery Johnson, Popeye Jones and Antoine Rigaudeau. On June 24, 2004, Antawn was traded by the Mavericks along with cash to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jerry Stackhouse, Christian Laettner and the draft rights to Devin Harris, the No. 5 selection of the 2004 NBA Draft. Jamison made his all-star debut for a very good Washington Wizards team in 2005.

    Jamison's Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-999.66.40.7
    1999-0019.68.32.1
    2000-0124.98.72.0
    2001-0219.76.82.0
    2002-0322.27.01.9
    2003-0414.86.30.9
    Career (thru 2003)19.17.21.6

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  5. Golden State-traded to Toronto:
    Vince Carter (UNC) 6-6/208
  6. Dallas-traded to Milwaukee:
    Robert Traylor (Michigan) 6-8/280
    He dropped some pounds and looks a little like Barkley. He's the 4th underclassmen in the top 6. I think that Pierce and Hughes would have been better picks here. Dallas gives up Tractor to Milwaukee and gets Dirk from Milwaukee and Steve Nash from Phoenix, giving up next year's unconditional #1, Bubba Wells and Martin Muursepp with the rights to Garrity (who they get from Milwaukee) to Phoenix....got it? Milwaukee signed him to a four year, 7 million dollar contract, with the team having the fourth year option. On August 3, 2001 Philadelphia traded Tyrone Hill and Jumaine Jones to Cleveland for Matt Harpring, Cedric Henderson, and Robert Traylor. On October 25, 2001 Charlotte traded away Derrick Coleman and cash and received George Lynch, Robert Traylor, Jerome Moiso, and Chris Porter. Philadelphia traded away George Lynch, Robert Traylor, Jerome Moiso, Cedric Henderson, and a conditional 1st round draft pick in 2005 and received Derrick Coleman, Vonteego Cummings, and Corie Blount. Golden State traded away Chris Porter, Vonteego Cummings, and Corie Blount and received Cedric Henderson, a conditional 1st round draft pick in 2005, and cash. Prior to the 2002-2003 season the New Orleans Hornets signed Robert Traylor to a 2 year contract. On August 10, 2004, Cleveland signed Traylor to a one year deal worth 1.6 million dollars, with a team option for a second year. On August 5, 2004, Cleveland signed Traylor to a one year contract worth 1.6 million dollars.
  7. Sacramento:
    Jason Williams (Florida) 6-1/190
    The Kings reach way down and make Williams a skyrocketing pick. Williams has a lot of potential, but he's also a risk, and the biggest surprise so far. He's got stats, averaging 17 points and almost 7 assists and 3 steals. He signed a four year deal worth 6.5 million dollars, with the fourth year being the team's option. Jason took the league by storm in 1999 with a variety of showboating moves and solid play, giving the Kings the first real point guard in many years. On August 2, 2005 the largest trade in NBA history occurred with 5 teams and 13 players involved. In a sign-and-trade, Boston first re-signed Antoine Walker to a 6 year, $53 million contract. Boston traded away Antoine Walker and received Curtis Borchardt, Qyntel Woods, the draft rights to Albert Miralles, a 2nd round draft pick in 2006, a 2nd round draft pick in 2007 or 2008, and cash from Miami. Miami traded away Eddie Jones, Qyntel Woods, Rasual Butler, the rights to Albert Miralles, a 2nd round draft pick in 2006, a 2nd round draft pick in 2007 or 2008, and cash and received Antoine Walker, Jason Williams, James Posey, Andre Emmett, and the draft rights to Roberto Duenas. Memphis traded away Jason Williams, James Posey, Andre Emmett, and Greg Ostertag and received Eddie Jones and Raul Lopez. New Orleans traded away the draft rights to Roberto Duenas and received Rasual Butler and Kirk Snyder. Utah traded away Curtis Borchardt, Raul Lopez, and Kirk Snyder and received Greg Ostertag.

    Williams' Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-9912.83.16.0
    1999-0012.32.87.3
    2000-019.42.45.4
    2001-0214.83.08.0
    2002-0312.12.88.3
    2003-0410.92.06.8
    Career (thru '04)11.92.77.0

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  8. Philadelphia:
    Larry Hughes (Saint Louis) 6-5/185
    Hughes was the best freshman in the nation, and I had him as a top 7 pick, so eight is just about right. He averaged 20.9 points, 2.4 assists and 5.1 rebounds a game, so does that make him better than Pierce? He signed a 3 year 4.21 million dollar contract. He is a valuable sixth man for the 76ers in 1999, but was on his way to breaking into the staring lineup. On February 1, 2000, Philadelphia traded Larry Hughes, Billy Owens, and Bruce Bowen and received Toni Kukoc; Golden State traded Johh Starks and a 1st round draft pick and received Larry Hughes and Billy Owens; and Chicago traded Toni Kukoc and received John Starks, Bruce Bowen, and a 1st round draft pick. Hughes began the 2001 season as the undisputed starter for the team. On July 18th 2002, Washington signed Larry Hughes to a 3-year, $14.7 million contract. He was named to the All-Defensive First Team in 2005. On August 2, 2005 Cleveland signed Larry Hughes to a 5 year, $60 million contract.

    Hughes' Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-999.13.81.5
    1999-0015.04.32.5
    2000-0116.55.54.5
    2001-0212.33.44.3
    2002-0312.84.63.1
    2003-0418.85.32.4
    Career (thru '04)14.14.43.1
  9. Milwaukee (traded to Dallas):
    Dirk Nowitzki (Germany) 6-10/215
    I had them taking Dirk and I was right! But over Pierce?!?! He's the top European Prospect, at only 19. His only question mark was his signability. He averaged more than 30 points a game for the German Team, playing center, but I see him more as an all-around forward in the NBA, ala Schrempf. Let's review: Dirk and #19 (Pat Garrity) go to Dallas for Tractor...Garrity goes to Phoenix along with Muursepp, Bubba Wells and next year's unconditional #1 for Steve Nash....Got it now...we will review one more time. Dirk signed a four year deal worth 5.56 million dollars, the fourth year is a team option. Dirk had a nice start to his NBA career, but in the 2000-2001 season he really took off, becoming one of the league's most dangerous power forwards, being named to the All-NBA Third Team. In 2002, Dirk made the all-star team for the division leading Mavericks, and he was also named to the All-NBA Second Team in 2002 and 2003. He was back on the All-NBA Third Team in 2004. He made his first appearance on the All-NBA First Team in 2005, and was again named to the First Team in 2006 and 2007. Dirk was also named the League MVP in 2007 beating out Steve Nash, who had won it the previous two years, with 1138 votes to 1013 votes. Unfortunately, Dirk's Mavericks who had the best record in the league during the regular season, were bumped out of the playoffs in the first round by eighth seed Golden State. He has been an all-star reserve for the west for four years in a row through 2005. On September 26, 2006 Dallas re-signed Dirk Nowitzki to a three year, 60 million dollar contract extension through 2011.

    Dirk's Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-998.23.41.0
    1999-0017.56.52.5
    2000-0121.89.22.1
    2001-0223.49.92.4
    2002-0325.19.93.0
    2003-0421.88.72.7
    Career (thru '04)20.48.32.4

  10. Boston:
    Paul Pierce (Kansas) 6-7/220
    He's the winner/loser in the John Wallace "makin' like a rock" contest from a consensus 3 to 10. Honestly, I don't know his knocks....he averaged 21.5 ppg, 6.7 rpg and better than 50% FG. Plus, he's got an NBA body, skills and determination. He is a huge steal. He signed a 4 year 5.2 million dollar contract with the fourth year being the team's option. Rick Pitino immediately made him the team's starting SF. He was named rookie of the month for February 1999 after scoring over 18 points per game to lead all rookes and throwing in almost seven rebounds per, with only Owolokandi and LaFrentz grabbing more boards. On July 31, 2001 Boston signed Paul Pierce to a 6 year, over $85 million contract extension. The exact amount of the extension will not be known until the 2002-03 salary cap is set. He was named an all-star for the first time in 2002. He made it four times in a row in 2005. He also had his first selection to the All-NBA Third team in 2002, beating out teammate Antoine Walker who also had a good year. He was back on the Third Team in 2003. On July 17, 2006 Boston signed Pierce to a three year, $59 million contract extension, through 2010-2011.

    Pierce's Stats

    PPGRPGAPGStlPG
    1998-9916.56.42.41.7
    1999-0019.55.43.02.1
    2000-0125.36.43.11.7
    2001-0226.16.93.21.9
    2002-0325.97.34.41.8
    2003-0423.06.55.11.6
    Career (thru '04)23.26.53.61.8

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  11. Detroit:
    Bonzi Wells (Ball State) 6-5/210
    He's the third senior taken. His stats were amazing, averaging 21.4 points per game over a 4 year career. I hope that his playing at a small school won't mean he'll be a flop....we'll see. I wouldn't have had the guts to pull the trigger on him here. Detroit traded the rights to #11 draft pick Bonzi Wells to Portland for a conditional 1st round draft pick. Portland signed him to a four year deal worth 5 million dollars, with the fourth year as the team's option. With a deep Portland team, he won't have much of a chance to show what he's got in 1999. The next two seasons though, Bonzi was arguably one of the most important Blazers. On August 2, 2005 Sacramento traded Bobby Jackson and Greg Ostertag to Memphis for Bonzi Wells. On September 27, 2006 Houston signed Bonzi Wells to a two year, five million dollar contract with the second year at the player's option.

    Wells Stats

    PPGRPGAPGStlPG
    Rookie4.41.30.40.1
    1999-008.82.81.51.1
    2000-0112.74.92.81.2
    2001-0217.06.02.81.5
    2002-0315.25.33.31.6
    2003-0412.33.61.91.3
    Career (thru '04)13.14.52.41.3
  12. Orlando:
    Mike Doleac (Utah) 6-11/269
    He's not the big man I thought they would take, but arguably just as good as Keon Clark, although he was sliding. He has a nice shooter's touch and averaged around 16 points and 7 rebounds. He's mature and will do fine in the NBA. He was signed to a three year 3.3 million dollar deal. Doleac has impressed Chuck Daly and stolen some minutes from free agent center pickup Ike Austin. On August 7, 2002 New York signed Michael Doleac to a 2 year, $3 million contract.
  13. Orlando (from Washington-Utah had the option to take this pick, but declined, opting for their 1999 First Rounder Instead.):
    Keon Clark (UNLV) 6-11/220
    Keon is strong and can play defense, averaging 10 boards and 15 points in his streaky college career. On January 21, 1999, Keon's rights were traded to the Nuggets along with Johnny Taylor and a first round selection. Denver signed him to a four year deal worth 4.47 million dollars, with the fourth year as a team option. On August 14, 2002 Sacramento signed Keon Clark to a 1 year, $4.545 million contract with a 2nd year at the player's option. On August 5, 2003, Sacramento traded Keon Clark and 2 2nd round draft picks to Utah for a 2nd round draft pick. On February 15, 2004 New York traded away Keith Van Horn, Michael Doleac, and a 2005 2nd round draft pick and received Tim Thomas and Nazr Mohammed; Milwaukee traded away Tim Thomas and Joel Przybilla and received Keith Van Horn; and Atlanta traded away Nazr Mohammed and received Michael Doleac, Joel Przybilla, and New York's 2005 2nd round draft pick. On February 19, 2004, Utah traded Keon Clark and Ben Handlogten to Phoenix for Tom Gugliotta, the lower of the two first round draft picks Phoenix has for 2004, the other 1st round draft pick Phoenix received from New York from the Marbury trade (lottery protected through 2010), a 2005 2nd round draft pick, and cash. On July 15, 2004, Miami signed Doleac to a four year, $12 million contract.
  14. Houston:
    Michael Dickerson (Arizona) 6-5/190
    He was the guy that Houston had their eye on, and they were hoping he would fall. As a Third Team All-American he averaged more than 18 points and shot 40% from the 3 point line, so he's a shooter and a scorer and will fit in perfectly in Houston. He signed a 3 year 2.99 million dollar contract. He jumps into the Houston starting lineup and gives them the quick legs and the scorer/shooter in the back court that they need. He averaged better than 11 points a game in his first month in the NBA. On August 27, 1999 in a three-team trade, Michael moved on to Vancouver when Vancouver traded the rights to first round draft pick Steve Francis, Tony Massenburg, Lee Mayberry, Makhtar Ndiaye, Rodrick Rhodes, and Michael Smith for Michael Dickerson, Othella Harington, Antoine Carr, Brent Price, Houston's first round draft pick in 2000 or 2001 or 2002, and Orlando's 2000 second round draft pick; Houston traded Michael Dickerson, Othella Harrington, Antoine Carr, Brent Price, and their 2000 or 2001 or 2002 first round draft pick for the rights to Steve Francis, Don MacLean, and Tony Massenburg; and Orlando traded Don MacLean and their 2000 second round draft pick for Lee Mayberry, Makhtar Ndiaye, Rodrick Rhodes, and Michael Smith. On October 30, 2001 Memphis signed Michael Dickerson to a 6 year, $34 million contract extension. Due to a lingering hernia injury, Dickerson retired prior to the 2003-2004 NBA season.

    Dickerson's Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-9910.91.71.9
    1999-0018.23.42.5
    2000-0116.33.33.3
    2001-0210.83.02.3
    2002-034.81.01.3
    Career (thru 2003)15.42.92.6
  15. Orlando (from NJ):
    Matt Harpring (GA Tech) 6-7/226
    This is another huge jump, but his stellar rookie performance proved that the pick was justified. Orlando signed him to a three year 2.84 million dollar contract. Somehow he manages to get minutes on a deep Orlando team, though, averaging almost six points a game. Matt had a great college career, but many scouts didn't think he had NBA stuff. On August 2, 2000 he was traded to Cleveland for Andrew DeClerq. On August 3, 2001 Philadelphia traded Tyrone Hill and Jumaine Jones to Cleveland for Matt Harpring, Cedric Henderson, and Robert Traylor. On August 15, 2002 Utah signed Matt Harpring to a 4 year, $18.5 million contract. On July 12, 2006 Utah re-signed Matt to a four year, $25 million contract.

    Harpring's Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-998.21.30.9
    1999-20004.03.02.0
    2000-0111.14.31.8
    2001-0211.87.11.3
    2002-0317.66.61.7
    2003-0416.28.02.0
    Career (thru '04)12.96.01.5
  16. Houston (from Toronto-in Wilis trade from New York):
    Bryce Drew (Valparaiso) 6-3/185
    His stock was rising, and the Rockets liked him, so this makes sense to me, even though some other good players are there...ie Garrity. Houston signed him to a 3 year 2.7 million dollar deal. Dickerson has been able to keep Bryce on the bench. On September 27, 2000 Houston traded Drew to Chicago for future draft picks. On July 24, 2001 Charlotte signed Bryce Drew to a 3 year, $4.5 million contract.
  17. Minnesota:
    Radoslav Nesterovic (Slovenia) 7-1/245 lbs 21 yrs old
    The T-Wolves pass on some risks (Nazr, HS players) and take a BIG foreign player, who could pay off. On May 4, 1999 they finally signed him to a 4 year contract worth 2.6 million dollars with the fourth year as a team option. On July 16, 2003 San Antonio signed Radoslav Nesterovic to a 6 year $42 million contract.
  18. Houston (from Toronto-in Willis trade from Portland):
    Mirsad Turkcan (Turkey) 6-9/230 lbs 21 yrs old
    Back to back foreign prospects...poor David Stern. I have Mirsad as the #2 non-US player in the draft, but still worth only an early second rounder. Houston traded the rights to #18 draft pick Mirsad Turkcan to Philadelphia for a conditional 1st round draft pick.
  19. Milwaukee (traded to Phoenix via Dallas from Cleveland):
    Pat Garrity (Notre Dame) 6-9/230
    He has a well-rounded game, and is a better prospect than some of the guys higher up. He was a Second Team All-American. He can hit the 3 pointer and rebound and score (23.2 as a senior). He could end up starting by the end of his rookie year. Here we go one more time...now pay attention...Phoenix traded Steve Nash to Dallas for Garrity (who they just acquired from Milwaukee in the Nowitzki/Traylor swap), Bubba Wells, Martin Muursepp and next year's unconditional number one. On January 25, 1999, Phoenix signed him to a four year deal worth 3.3 million dollars, with the fourth year as a team option. On July 22, 2002, Orlando re-signed Pat Garrity to a 5 year, $15 million contract with an option for a 6th year.
  20. Atlanta:
    Roshown McLeod (Duke) 6-8/220
    Like I said he doesn't have impressive stats, but he's not a reach at 20. I think that with who was left on the board, they did well, not wanting to gamble on long shots. Atlanta signed him to a four year, 3.3 million dollar contract. On August 3, 2001 Boston traded Jerome Moiso to Philadelphia for Roshown McLeod and a conditional protected 1st round draft pick.
  21. Charlotte:
    Ricky Davis (Iowa) 6-5/195
    The Freshman's stock was rising, but I thought it would be from not drafted to a second round pick. This could be a mistake they will regret. I thought for sure they would take Skinner or Brad Miller. (note: Charlotte signed Miller to a free agent contract and he had done great coming off the bench.) He has 2 things going for him: potential and a good Chicago camp. The Hornets signed him to a 4 year contract worth 3 million dollars with the fourth year as the team option. On October 26, 2001 Cleveland traded Chris Gatling and received Ricky Davis and Brian Skinner. Miami traded away Don MacLean, Ricky Davis, and cash and received Chris Gatling. Toronto traded away Brian Skinner and received Don MacLean and cash. Prior to thte 2002-2003 season Cleveland matched Minnesota's 6 year, $34 million offer sheet to restricted free agent Ricky Davis and retained him.

    Davis' Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-994.51.81.3
    1999-20004.71.71.3
    2000-014.61.01.6
    2001-0211.73.02.2
    2002-0320.64.95.5
    2003-0414.44.53.3
    Career (thru '04)12.33.42.9
  22. Los Angeles Clippers (from Miami):
    Brian Skinner (Baylor) 6-10/240
    He's a versatile PF, with a solid NBA body and he can score (18 ppg), rebound (9.5 rpg), block shots (3.5 BlkPG). He was the best available, and will make it in the NBA. He signed a four year deal worth 2.89 million dollar to play for the Clips, with the fourth year being a team option (I see a pattern developing here). He was traded to Chicago along with Tyson Chandler for Elton Brand then went from Chicago to Toronto for Charles Oakley. On October 26, 2001 Cleveland traded Chris Gatling and received Ricky Davis and Brian Skinner. Miami traded away Don MacLean, Ricky Davis, and cash and received Chris Gatling. Toronto traded away Brian Skinner and received Don MacLean and cash. Prior to the 2002-2003 season Philadelphia signed Brian Skinner to a 1 year, minimum contract. On July 17, 2003 Milwaukee signed Skinner to a 3 year, $5 million contract. On July 14, 2004, Philadelphia signed Skinner to a five year, $25 million contract. On February 23, 2005 Sacramento traded Chris Webber, Matt Barnes, and Michael Bradley to Philadelphia for Kenny Thomas, Corliss Williamson, and Brian Skinner. On February 23, 2006, in a four team trade, Denver traded away Earl Watson, Voshon Lenard, Bryon Russell, and a second round draft pick and received Reggie Evans, Ruben Patterson, and Charles Smith; Seattle traded away Vitaly Potapenko and Reggie Evans and received Earl Watson, Bryon Russell, and a second round draft pick; Portland traded away Ruben Patterson, Sergei Monia, and Charles Smith and received Voshon Lenard and Brian Skinner; Sacramento traded away Brian Skinner and received Vitaly Potapenko and Sergei Monia. On July 31, 2006 Milwaukee traded Jamaal Magloire to Portland for Steve Blake, Brian Skinner, and Ha Seung-Jin.
  23. Denver-traded to the LA Lakers (from Phoenix):
    Tyronn Lue (Nebraska) 6-0/170
    Lue's stock was falling, but Denver liked him enough to save him from the second round. He's a top 4 PG prospect, maybe better than Bryce Drew from the PG spot. As a junior, he averaged 21 points and almost 5 assists. The LA Lakers traded Nick Van Exel to Denver for the rights to Lue and last year's first rounder Tony Battie. He signed a four year 2.8 million dollar contract with LA. The fourth year is a team option. Towards the end of his rookie year, Lue's minutes went up! On July 18, 2001 Washington signed Tyronn Lue to a 2 year, $3.1 million contract. On July 19, 2003, Orlando signed Lue to a 2 year, $3.15 million contract. On June 29, 2004, Houston traded Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, and Kelvin Cato to Orlando for Tracy McGrady, Juwan Howard, Tyronn Lue, and Reece Gaines. On December 23, 2004 Atlanta traded Jon Barry to Houston for Tyronn Lue. On August 24, 2005 Atlanta re-signed Lue to a three year deal.
  24. San Antonio:
    Felipe Lopez (St. John's) 6-6/190
    Wow!!!! Felipe leaps over the competition, moving into the first round....what about Corey and Ansu? He could be a very good NBA player, having a good career, good workouts, and good pre-draft camps. Vancouver traded Antonio Daniels to SA for the rights to Felipe Lopez and Carl Herrera. The Grizzlies signed him to a four year contract worth 3 million dollars, with the fourth year at the team's option. Felipe's had a streaky rookie year looking like an all-star sometimes, and other times...blah... On August 22, 2000 Washington traded Isaac Austin to Vancouver for Dennis Scott, Cherokee Parks, Obinna Ekezie, and Felipe Lopez.
  25. Indiana:
    Al Harrington (Elizabeth, NJ) 6-8/222
    The HS Prep Player of the Year slides a bit, ending up in Indiana, who can risk it. Maybe this will teach future generations to stay in school. He signed a four year deal with the Pistons for 2.6 million dollars with the last year being a team option. On July 15, 2004 Indiana traded Al Harrington to Atlanta for Stephen Jackson. On August 22, 2006 Atlanta re-signed Al Harrington to a four year, $35.3 million contract and then traded him and John Edwards to Indiana for a future first round draft pick and cash.
  26. LA Lakers:
    Sam Jacobson 6-6/210
    His ability to hit the three pointer launches him into the first round. Jerry West always pulls a surprise, so I don't want to criticize this pick...although I'd like to. He signed a four year deal worth 2.5 million dollars, with the fourth year being a team option. On January 17, 2007 Indiana traded Al Harrington, Stephen Jackson, Sarujnas Jasikevicius, and Josh Powell to Golden State for Troy Murphy, Mike Dunleavy, Ike Diogu, and Keith McLeod.
  27. Seattle:
    Vladimir Stepanija(Georgia) 7-0/240
    I expected them to take a foreign prospect, but they could have also gone for a high Schooler. He signed a four year deal worth 2.4 million dollars with the fourth year being the team's option. Portland signed him to a two year deal for the 2003-2004 season.
  28. Chicago:
    Corey Benjamin (Oregon State) 6-5/200
    Well, Chicago takes the consensus best available, for a change. I don't want to hear anyone say he's gonna be MJ's replacement.....shhh...yeah you... Corey is the runner up to Paul Pierce in the John Wallace "make like a rock and slide" contest. On January 22, 1999 he signed a four year deal worth 2.4 million dollars, with the fourth year being a team option. He signed a deal with Charlotte for the 2004-2005 season.
  29. Utah (traded to Philly) :
    Nazr Mohammed (Kentucky) 6-10/240
    Nazr makes the first round...barely....I had him at 17 and thought it was high, now don't you guys who had him in the lottery feel silly? Now he can do what he needs to do in the NBA, be a role player on a good team. Nazr was traded to Philly for a future first round pick on draft day, then signed a 3 year 1.68 million dollar contract on 1-21-99. He was traded to Atlanta in the Dikembe Mutombo deal then on July 18, 2001 Atlanta re-signed Nazr Mohammed to a 5 year, $25 million contract. On February 15, 2004 New York traded away Keith Van Horn, Michael Doleac, and a 2005 2nd round draft pick and received Tim Thomas and Nazr Mohammed; Milwaukee traded away Tim Thomas and Joel Przybilla and received Keith Van Horn; and Atlanta traded away Nazr Mohammed and received Michael Doleac, Joel Przybilla, and New York's 2005 2nd round draft pick. On February 24, 2005 New York traded Nazr Mohammed and Jamison Brewer to San Antonio for Malik Rose, a first round draft pick in 2005 originally from Phoenix, San Antonio's 1st round draft pick in 2006, and cash. On July 12, 2006 Detroit signed Nazr Mohammed to a five year, $31 million contract with the fifth year at the team's option.

    Second Round

  30. Dallas (From Toronto):
    Ansu Sesay (Miss) 6-9/220
    I had Ansu higher, even though he didn't do much to help himself in the post-NCAA pre-draft season, not going to any camps. He still could be the most solid senior SF prospect, better than Garrity and Harpring, only time will tell. He signed a deal with the Mavs, but broke his foot during the first day of training camp missing the entire season!
  31. LA Lakers (from Vancouver in Peeler deal):
    Ruben Patterson (Cincinnati) 6-6/225
    Even though he helped himself in the camps, it wasn't enough. And I actually had him here in my mock draft! On July 30, 2001 Portland signed Ruben Patterson to a 6 year, $34,035,000 contract. On February 23, 2006, in a four team trade, Denver traded away Earl Watson, Voshon Lenard, Bryon Russell, and a second round draft pick and received Reggie Evans, Ruben Patterson, and Charles Smith; Seattle traded away Vitaly Potapenko and Reggie Evans and received Earl Watson, Bryon Russell, and a second round draft pick; Portland traded away Ruben Patterson, Sergei Monia, and Charles Smith and received Voshon Lenard and Brian Skinner; Sacramento traded away Brian Skinner and received Vitaly Potapenko and Sergei Monia. On August 10, 2006 Milwaukee traded Joe Smith to Denver for Ruben Patterson. The LA Clippers signed Ruben for the 2007-2008 season.
  32. Seattle (from Denver):
    Rashard Lewis (HS) 6-10/220
    The last lone invitee to the shebang gets drafted...it was lonely in the green room after Nazr left. Seattle gets a steal, being able to wait for him to develop. I think he's better than Harrington. He signed a 2 year contract with the Sonics worth 587,000 on 1-24-99. Seattle re-signed Rashard Lewis to a 3 year, $13.3 million contract with a player opt-out clause after 01-02. Rashard was named to 2001 Goodwill Games Team after a breakout season for the Sonics. On September 19, 2002 Seattle re-signed Rashard Lewis to a 7 year, $65 million contract. Rashard made his all-star debut in 2005. On July 11, 2007, in a sign-and-trade, Seattle re-signed Rashard Lewis to a six year, $118.2 million contract and traded him to Orlando for a conditional 2nd round draft pick.

    Lewis' Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    Rookie2.41.30.2
    1999-008.24.10.9
    2000-0114.86.91.6
    2001-0216.87.01.7
    2002-0318.16.51.7
    2003-0417.86.52.2
    Career (thru '04)14.45.91.5

  33. Seattle (LA Clippers in Cotton deal via Detroit in Eric Snow deal):
    Jelani McCoy (UCLA) 6-10/240
    Jelani slid a lot more than I had anticipated, as he seemed to be a risk worth taking. On August 16, 2000 Seattle re-signed Jelani McCoy to a 1 year, $1.125 million contract. Seattle has done well with 3 gambles: a foreign prospect, a high school prospect, and a trouble-making prospect. One of them could start for their team in a year or 2. Cleveland signed him for the 2003-2004 season. Milwaukee signed McCoy for the 2004-2005 season.
  34. Chicago-traded to Atlanta (from GS in Caffey deal):
    Shammond Williams (UNC) 6-2/180
    Chicago adds another player who can make their team....good job boys! They ended up 2 for 2 so far. Chicago traded Shammond to Atlanta for 2 future second round draft picks....I thought Chicago had something going here too....Oh well, Shammond will make a solid addition to the Hawks, joining other ACC draftee, and rival, Roshown McLeod. On October 7, 2001 Seattle signed Shammond to a 2 year, $3.5 million contract after he made a real contribution to the team the previous year. On February 19, 2004, Orlando traded Shammond to New Orleans for Sean Rooks. On July 12, 2006 The Lakers signed Shammond to a one year, $1.75 million contract.
  35. Dallas:
    Bruno Sundov (Croatia) 7-220 18 yrs old
  36. Sacramento:
    Jerome James (Florida A&M) 7-1/290
    I had him moving up, but I expected Casey Shaw to go higher than him.
  37. Philadelphia (may go to Detroit or Seattle):
    Casey Shaw (Toledo) 6-11/260
    They want a big man...they finally got one.

    Hey! Here's my second second round pick I hit right on...I think that makes my second and first round accuracy the same so far.

  38. New York (from Boston in Chris Mills deal)
    DeMarco Johnson (UNC-Charlotte) 6-8/245
    They reached down and gamble on a proven NCAA player.
  39. Milwaukee:
    Rafer Alston (Fresno State) 6-2/180
    He helped himself and became a top 5 PG. He is the fifth one taken...right? Bibby...Williams....Drew...Lue....Alston. He re-signed with Milwaukee for the 2001-2002 season. Miami signed him to a one year deal for the 2003-2004 season. on July 14, 2004, he made it into the big bucks, signing a six year deal worth $28 million dollars to play for Toronto.
  40. Detroit:
    Korleone Young (HS) 6-7/220
    This is higher than I thought, but I can live with...
  41. Houston:
    Cuttino Mobley (Rhode Island) 6-4/190
    Early in his career he won the Houston starting PG job, relegating Matt Maloney to bench duty. When the Rockets drafted Steve Francis, Mobley moved over and became a dangerous SG in one of the league's best backcourts. On August 2, 2000 Houston re-signed Cuttino Mobley to a 6 year, $31 million contract. On June 29, 2004, Houston traded Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, and Kelvin Cato to Orlando for Tracy McGrady, Juwan Howard, Tyronn Lue, and Reece Gaines. On January 10, 2005, Sacramento traded Doug Christie to Orlando for Cuttino Mobley and Michael Bradley. On August 3, 2005 The LA Clippers signed Cuttino Mobley to a 5 year, $42 million contract.

    Mobley's Stats

    PPGRPGAPG
    1998-999.92.32.5
    1999-200015.83.62.6
    2000-0119.55.02.5
    2001-0221.74.12.5
    2002-0317.54.22.8
    2003-0415.84.53.2
    Career (thru '04)17.14.02.7
  42. Orlando:
    Miles Simon (Arizona) 6-3/200
    Slip sliding away....slip sliding away...nearer my destination the more...you get the idea. He'll make the team and make the rotation after signing a one year contract worth $287,000.
  43. Washington:
    Jahidi White (Georgetown) 6-9/290
    Taking the local talent...and someone who recently moved up into the draft. On November 5, 2003, Washington traded Jahidi White to Phoenix for Brevin Knight.
  44. New York-traded to Toronto:
    Sean Marks (California) 6-10/250
    He has also helped himself lately...bumping off those boys from that other school in California. Sean was traded along with Charles Oakley (or the other way 'round I guess) to Toronto for Marcus Camby.
  45. LA Lakers-traded to Phoenix (from NY):
    Toby Bailey (UCLA) 6-5/205
    He was traded to Phoenix for future considerations.
  46. Minnesota:
    Andrae Patterson (Indiana) 6-8/240
  47. Toronto (from Portland):
    Tyson Wheeler (Rhode Island) 5-10/165
    I saw him moving up...and this makes sense.
  48. Cleveland:
    Ryan Stack (Univ of SC) 6-11/215
    Bad Cleveland...bad....bad....
  49. Atlanta:
    Cory Carr (Texas Tech) 6-4/200
    Another big slide. I said he'd have gone higher last year, but I never expected this low.
  50. Charlotte:
    Andrew Betts (Long Beach State) 7-1/250
  51. Miami:
    Corey Brewer (Oklahoma) 6-1/190
    It looks like most of the good guys will get drafted this year.
  52. San Antonio:
    Derrick Dial (Eastern Michigan Univ) 6-4/190
  53. Dallas (from Phoenix):
    Greg Buckner (Clemson) 6-3/210
    Greg signed a deal to play for the Mavs.
  54. Denver (from Indiana):
    Tremaine Fowlkes (Fresno State) 6-8/220
    Another underclassmen is picked up, making 20 altogether including 2 foreign prospects and 3 high schoolers.
  55. Denver (from Seattle):
    Ryan Bowen (Iowa) 6-9/220
  56. Vancouver (from LA Lakers in Peeler trade):
    JR Henderson (UCLA) 6-9/223
    Winner! Winner! Winner! And this year's number one slippery slider is JR Henderson...at least he got drafted unlike last year's winner Andre Woolridge.
  57. Utah:
    Torraye Braggs (Xavier) 6-8/235
  58. Chicago:
    Maceo Baston (Michigan) 6-9/210
So who got left out you ask? Brad Miller of Purdue, Alexander Koul of George Washington, Jeff Sheppard of Kentucky and high scoring Charles Jones of Long Island top my list. Add possible second rounders Bakari Hendrex, Clayton Shields, Saddi Washington, Anthony Carter and Tyrone Nesby and their could be some interesting free agent rookies. Brad Miller has made it with the Charlotte Hornets, finding a spot in their rotation and chipping in 4 points and 3 rebounds per game. Tyrone Nesby might be the biggest mistake after the Clippers gave him a chance, and he keeps playing better and better, averaging seven points per game. Charles Jones was given a shot by the Bulls, but the jury is still out on him.
Related Pages:
Rookie Report
As the season ended, the rookie of the year battle came down to two players: Paul Pierce and Vince Carter, but Carter won Rookie of a Year in a landslide with 113 out of 118 vote with Jason Williams getting 3 and Paul Pierce only getting 2. The results for the All-Rookie Teams are in. First Team: Vince Carter, Paul Pierce, Jason Williams, Mike Bibby and Matt Harpring. Second Team: Michael Dickerson, Michael Doleac, Cuttino Mobley, Michael Olowokandi and Antawn Jamison.
Last UpdatedAugust 16, 2006

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