From Deseret News archives:

A team-by-team analysis of Thursday night's NBA draft

Published: Friday, June 27, 2008 11:39 a.m. MDT
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New York: Euro star Danilo Gallinari will be popular out on the perimeter — and on Mulberry Street — but he better produce in Madison Square Garden or adverse fan reaction by Knicks' fans Thursday night will be even worse. GM Donnie Walsh loves the 6-9 Italian as an NBA prototype forward. So does coach Mike D'Antoni, who told ESPN: "He has the potential to be a star." D'Antoni played hoops in Italy with Gallinari's father.

Orlando: Courtney Lee, a senior guard from Western Kentucky, is a complete player who should immediately help the Magic.

Philadelphia: Marreese Speights, one of the most talented big men available, had his conditioning questioned as a Florida Gator. Has a lot of potential but some possible downside if he isn't serious about his game.

Phoenix: Robin Lopez, a center at Stanford, is a shot-blocker and rebounder. Eventually should provide the Suns what they've missed for years — a consistent defender, an obvious shift now that GM Steve Kerr is in charge. Fairly raw but has the right attitude.

Portland: Traded with the Pacers for the rights to Jerryd Bayless, a top-notch long-distance shooter, and picked up Darrell Arthur from New Orleans. Also acquired Ike Diogu and drafted Omer Asik, a 7-foot Turkish center.

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Sacramento: The Kings' selection of Jason Thompson, a 6-11 upperclassmen from Rider, raised more than a few eyebrows. Versatile player who can provide some instant frontcourt relief for coach Reggie Theus. Grabbed Patrick Ewing Jr., who impressed at pre-draft camp with his leaping ability.

San Antonio: George Hill, a small combo guard, is talented and a real sleeper for the Spurs, who like his conditioning and defense.

Seattle: The No. 4 selection of UCLA combo guard Russell Westbrook gives the Sonics a promising backcourt project. A great defender. Needs to get "old" fast — he is only 19. With second selection, the 24th pick overall, the Sonics took Serge Ibaka, a 6-10, 228-pound forward from Congo. Very athletic and a long-term project, so watch for him in Oklahoma City. Later selected Joey Dorsey, a 6-7, 265-pound forward from Memphis.

Toronto: Traded for the big man it wanted in Jermaine O'Neal, bolstering a frontcourt that includes All-Star forward Chris Bosh.

Utah: Kosta Koufos, a 7-footer from Ohio State, will be made tougher and stronger by — guess who? — Jazz coach Jerry Sloan.

Washington: The Wizards tried to whip up some magic with JaVale McGee, a 7-foot forward who was a sophomore at Nevada. He has size but still needs plenty of seasoning. Took injury-prone 6-6 Bill Walker from Kansas State, then sent him to Boston for cash.

Recent comments

thanks for the breakdown, it was great!

spiritree | June 27, 2008 at 1:10 p.m.

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