Deseret News | Reader comments: Cummard is turning NBA heads

Reader comments
Dick Harmon: Cummard is turning NBA heads

Ute fan | 12:52 a.m. June 14, 2008

As a Utah fan, I honestly hope Lee puts his name in the draft and no it's not because I want him to leave the Y. I just think he has been one of the better players to watch and he is very exciting to watch as well. My biggest wish for him is that he would be drafted higher than Plaisted! I think Lee has deserved more credit than he's gotten for BYUs success.
Good Luck Lee at what ever you chose.

BYU Players leave | 1:23 a.m. June 14, 2008

BYU players need to enter the Draft. I don't think you will improve much more your senior season.

woody | 1:40 a.m. June 14, 2008

I also would like Lee to go if thats what he wants to do, but I also think if he stays 1 more year, without Trent, he will be a much more complete player, where Trent is only chasing dreams. I really don't care about the Uts-Cougs battle, but Lee would be better served by staying his last year, and prove he is a stand-up-good-go-to-guy and prove the critics wrong. GO Lee-GO BYU

Comments continue below

Harold | 2:13 a.m. June 14, 2008

Cummard is "turning NBA heads?" Seems a bit of a stretch given that the only quote is from Coach Rose relaying what teams have apparently told him -- and it's not exactly glowing praise. Saying a ball player has a high "basketball IQ" and "competitiveness" is a lot like saying a girl has "a sweet spirit."

I've got absolutely nothing against Cummard -- in fact I hope he does make the NBA -- but a more apt headline for this story would've been "Cummard weighing his options".

Decision | 4:00 a.m. June 14, 2008

I'm a Ute. It's hard to watch Cummard step all over my Utes, but it's impossible to deny that he's a terrific athlete and competitor. I hope you make the right decision, whatever the right decision is for you and your young family.

BYU fan | 6:54 a.m. June 14, 2008

I hope he stays for his senior season. Nuff said. He does deserve to go higher than Plaisted. If he stays one more year he would be a first rounder (barring some sort of disaster)

Anonymous | 7:30 a.m. June 14, 2008

The heads, from side to side as the scouts and coaches say "No, thanks, kid. But here, have a sandwich."

Y FAN | 7:52 a.m. June 14, 2008

I hope Lee will stay. Last year he proved he was the best player in the mwc. If he returns he will still be the best player in the league. Plaisted I could careless for how poor he played last year.

Not likely to go 1st round | 8:06 a.m. June 14, 2008

Most of the reports coming off the NBA wires have Cummard going 2nd round, if at all. He doesn't stand out enough to warrant a 1st round selection. Stay in school, Lee, and make yourself into a first-rounder.

Go Pro | 8:10 a.m. June 14, 2008

Lee should go pro. His stock won't be any higher if he comes back for another year at BYU because all of the opposing teams attention will be focused on him. He is definitely second round material and could even sneak into the first round. Go Pro!!!

nottyou | 8:19 a.m. June 14, 2008

Should the headline read, "Cummard is turning NBA stomachs"?

yes | 8:28 a.m. June 14, 2008

lee has definately been a great player thus far for BYU. Now if he can just win a tournament game

Alma the Wiser | 8:47 a.m. June 14, 2008

For Plaisted it was a no-brainer to leave. He hasn't improved much, if at all, since his Freshman season and if he stayed he would risk hurting his draft status by once again showing no improvement from the previous year.

As for Cummard, he has been able to take advantage of having Plaisted take a lot of opposing defenses attention. If Cummard stays, he will face constant double-teams and as a result his stats will drop and so will his draft potential. Lee should leave while his stock is at its highest.

Turning Heads? | 9:08 a.m. June 14, 2008

This is how the "turning heads" went:

Phoenix Suns coach: Does a double-take when he sees Cummard and asks the guy next to him "who is that?"

Other coach: "That's Cummard he is working out today."

First Coach: "Are you serious? I thought that was the most freakishly skinny ball boy we have ever had."

Turning Heads? | 9:17 a.m. June 14, 2008

Am I missing something? Did he get invited to the Orlando Pre-Draft camp? Is his name anywhere in the 1st or 2nd round projections? Whose head is he turning, other than Dick Harmon who worships the cougars.

Re: Ute Fan | 9:25 a.m. June 14, 2008

Cummard was Co-MVP for the league this last year... Certainly seems that he is getting more credit than Plaisted...

right | 9:36 a.m. June 14, 2008

You're right. The headline was misleading.

I don't know why Lee's so stuck on the 1st round. Many players do well coming out of the 2nd round. The NBA is the NBA, after all. There's really nothing left for Lee to prove in Provo, except maybe getting to the 2nd round of the tournament rather than just the 1st. Someone mentioned him disproving the critics, but I'm not sure who the critics are. Everyone seems to agree that Lee is a great player. He was the MWC POY, right?

Finally, with Trent gone, Lee has to realize that after the incident in Vegas, his wife will be the new favorite target of Lobo, Rebel, and Cowboy fans.

Arizona Cousin | 9:50 a.m. June 14, 2008

As a relative of Lee, I hope that he elects to play another year at BYU. I have watched him play throughout his career and he has many talents and is a very unselfish player. I do believe that he will improve his stock in the NBA by playing his senior year at BYU. He has gotten better each year he has played, and he would be the nucleus of next year's team, the go to guy, and would carry the load on offense as well as defense.

Lee: if you read this, don't get itchy feet, stay and play your senior year, your stock will go up considerably next year and being a former coach, I think I have some insight into your talents and how they'll improve with one more year under Coach Rose's system. Be patient, the money will still be there next year and there'll be a lot more chance of a higher draft pick and more money.

Ute Fan | 10:10 a.m. June 14, 2008

Who is this? Never heard of him. How about trying the WNBA?

2nd rounder | 10:57 a.m. June 14, 2008

Lee is a 2nd rounder... if that... he should stay. Staying for his senior year didn't hurt DWill any did it?

Lee Has To Stay!! | 11:01 a.m. June 14, 2008

Plaisted needed to go pro (NBA or international) in order to improve. He needs that step up in competition and coaching to develop a pro game offensively. BYU does not run a big man offense.

Cummard, on the other hand, probably can't improve his game much. He is already very solid in every category. But he can do two important things by staying. He can put on more weight (I read he added 25 pounds but another 20 would really help) and get a lot of attention as "the man" his senior year. I don't think he will be hurt by defenses focusing on him. Next season's team will be a 3-point shooting juggernaut so let them focus on Lee at their own peril. If he takes the skills he has now and showcases them with another MWC POY performance and an average around 20 points then he will get invited to pre-draft camps next season and he may very well be in a different position regarding the draft. I think it really is a win-win for Lee to stay. It would not have been for Plaisted.

why | 11:27 a.m. June 14, 2008

Why should we think one more year of MWC ball will leave Lee in a better position than he's in now? It's only getting harder for seniors to get drafted. He was the player of the year. What if he doesn't repeat that? Strike while the iron's hot, even if it is the 2nd round.

Are you serious Ute Fan??? | 11:30 a.m. June 14, 2008

Ha you would say that because you try and block from your mind all the times Lee and the rest of the cougars smashed you utes.
What a childish comment from a Ute Fan. At least we have people that the NBA is interested in.

Re:BYU Fan | 12:32 p.m. June 14, 2008

Are you up in the night? First rounder next year? Wow, they must have put something in that ice cream you get at the BYU creamery. Lee will never be a first rounder in the NBA. He would be lucky if he get a look from these scouts and make a summer league team. Having said that, have fun in Europe because thats where he'll ultimately end up. Go Aggies!!!

Welcome Back, Lee | 1:22 p.m. June 14, 2008

If Cummard is waiting to find out if he'll be a first-round pick--there's only one thing that means: He'll be back in Cougar Blue next year! Without a draft camp invitation, I don't even think he'd go in the second--impressive workouts notwithstanding.

How many college players can be described as having an impressive basketball IQ? Probably no less than a hundred. And how many players are having workouts with teams? A whole bunch more than will EVER play in the NBA.

It doesn't hurt Cummard to explore his opportunities. But there are a number of players with Cummard's talent level in the draft--not to mention above. Another year of college, standout play, and TEAM SUCCESS (as in at least an NCAA Tournament WIN) would help make his case for being a first-rounder.

BTW, Dick Harmon--it's the end of Spring TERM at BYU. Be accurate in your details. A number of readers already think you're more of a cheerleader than a journalist--this doesn't help you. Sorry, man.

I agree | 2:20 p.m. June 14, 2008

With Welcome Back, Lee. Cummard isn't turning any more NBA heads than probably a hundred other players are. That would be great if he makes it to the NBA, but reality is reality. If Cummard stays in the draft this year, he will be a late 2nd round pick, or he won't get drafted at all. He and his family needs to decide if that's worth leaving BYU.

Reality | 2:34 p.m. June 14, 2008

Cummard will be selected from 45-60 or not drafted at all. If he at least goes back for his senior yr he might be able to solidify 2nd rd status. He will never be a first rd pick.

The only chance Plaisted has of being drafted in the 1st rd is if old cougar legend Danny Ainge does the school a solid and has Trenty boy playing for the Flash next yr.

Sure BYU basketball has owned Utah for the last 3 seasons, but here is the difference between these 2 programs as far as history goes. Our star player leaves early and is the #1 pick in the draft. Both your players leave early and arent even guaranteed 1st rounders, let alone one of them might not get drafted.

Utah Alums in the NBA: 3
BYU: 0

Both players are very talented, but dont have pipe dreams that either of this guys will do a lick of anything in the NBA. They both however could make great livings in europe.

Can You Say "Minors"? | 3:18 p.m. June 14, 2008

Plaisted and Cummard would be a great duo with the Utah Flash. Or in Europe.

It's too bad these two will end up in the D League or overseas- they seem pretty cool, seem to treat othes with some respect, unlike the Austin Collie's of BYU. I'd like to see these two succeed, based on how they seem to treat others.

Re: Reality | 3:24 p.m. June 14, 2008

What has Bogut really done? Not too impressive for a number 1 pick. Not a BYU fan, but really, to mouth of because of NOgut? Please. Utah fans, you gotta take the reality check.

Re: Re: Reality | 4:55 p.m. June 14, 2008

I just got into this fray, but what has Bogut done???? Well, He's starts for an NBA team and led his colege team to at least a first round NCAA game before he was a senior. He got INVITED to the NBA Draft Camp and was drafted #1

Plasted AND Cummard have done nothing.

There's your reality check.

Are you Serious about Bogut | 5:15 p.m. June 14, 2008

He Starts for an NBA team.......we are talking the Bucks right!? Starting for one of the worst teams in the NBA is neat, but as a no. 1 pick you are supposed to be an All-Star. Bogut is a major disappointment by anyones standards.

BYU fan and Bogut | 5:53 p.m. June 14, 2008

Common fellow Cougs let's not make ourselves look silly by ripping on Bogut. He shot over 50% last season and was just off a 15 point 10 rebound average. I'd take him on the Jazz anyday. And he is one of the best passing big men in the league. He may not be number one pick material but he would start or get major minutes for any team at either PF or Center. No one since Ainge for BYU can even come close to Bogut's numbers. We need to have a little humility when it comes to the Utes about a few things - like NBA players and bowl game success. BYU can't be the best in everything folks!!

re: Reality | 6:00 p.m. June 14, 2008

"BYU basketball has owned Utah for the last 3 seasons"

Just a nitpick, BYU has won both games the last TWO seasons; 2007-2008 and 2006-2007. In 2005-2006, they split the regular season, each team winning at home and then Utah beat the TDS in the conference tourney.

Don't even worry about it... | 7:53 p.m. June 14, 2008

There is NO WAY he will be drafted, he should opt out and stay his final year. He is a small fish in a big pond. He will definitely improve his chances on a team that will likely (and finally!) be very good next year. He would be playing (maybe) in Europe if he does not opt out of the draft. Dick Harmon....what have you been smoking?

Don't get Drafted... | 10:01 p.m. June 14, 2008

I sure as heck don't want Lee to go NBA. He's a mighty fine player, but for my selfish reasons I want to see him back at BYU. Unfortunately Trent made the wrong choice. Lee is a better college player and will be able to play in the NBA one day. Unfortunately, Plaisted may get drafted but he won't last and will end up playing in Europe. Trent is too small to be an NBA Center and is too poor of a shooter to play anything else. Sorry trent, Lee's just a superior player.

Europa | 10:38 p.m. June 14, 2008

Being brutally objective, there is a chance that neither Plaisted or Cummard will be drafted. Chances are pretty good that both could go in round 2. Sure, it is a dream to be a first round pick, but hundreds of players each year simply hope for a shot. And there is no shame is recognizing that you aren't physically what the highest level of competition needs. So what shame is there in hypothetically making 500k per year for the next 10 years in Europe? If someone told me I could make my living playing ball, even if not at the highest level, I'd jump at the chance. And if I don't spend everything I earn, I might not have to sweat my future income too much after retirement. Take any opportunity that presents itself, even if it isn't the NBA.

Former player | 10:41 p.m. June 14, 2008

19 years ago I was a walkon at Utah. I averaged less than 2 minutes per game and less than 1 point. It's rare to have a chance to play after college. I hope Cummard realizes how cool it is to get a shot, any shot, anywhere.

re: re: Reality | 11:14 p.m. June 14, 2008

Nogut...thats cute.

Please name me a C in the east not named Dwight Howard that is better then Bogut?

He and Illgauskas put up nearly identical numbers. Bogut put up an assist better. Bogut had a slow start but since Jan 1 he averaged:

16.1 ppg
10.2 apg

Without a doubt Bogut is a top 10 C in the league and some could argue he is top 5.

Disappointing for a #1?

Oden
Bargani
Bogut
Dwight Howard
Lebron
Yao
Kwame Brown
Kenyon Martin

Where does he stack against the last 8? He is the 4th best in that group and the 3rd best in his draft class. Can you say that about the others not named Lebron, Yao and Howard?

Stop making excuses because BYU players are busts professionally. Sure the 32 yr old RMs can beat up on the MWC, but what do they do in the NBA?

The Reality is that Cummard is not better then the only cougar that had relative success in the NBA and thats Travis Hansen. Who makes a great living now playing for Tau Cremica in the ACB league in Spain.

Dick | 11:48 p.m. June 14, 2008

Another Dick conclusion based on no facts or research.

Re: Travis Hansen | 12:01 a.m. June 15, 2008

Unless he just changed teams (a possibility), he is with a team in Russia (Dynamo, I believe). He was granted Russian citizenship and may possibly be on the Russian Olympic team.

Anonymous | 4:59 a.m. June 15, 2008

Imagine if he stays 1 more year as the go to guy and they can return to the tourney and actually win a game? The first round draft potential next year vs. late 2nd/undrafted/european league play sounds like a no brainer.

wallyworld | 6:15 a.m. June 15, 2008

Dude, finish school, it's just one more year.

wake up!! | 3:19 p.m. June 15, 2008

Both Cummard and Plaisted were drunk from root beer when they thought they were good enough to enter the NBA draft. At least Cummard came out of it today and will finish his education, which he will probably need one day. Plaisted will MAYBE get drafted - but he is not big enough or good enough for the NBA. He can't even score against Luke Nevil, let alone Tim Duncan or Kevin Garnett....get real Trent. My prediction - Europe here we go!!! I hope his wife likes his new condo overseas :)

Who? | 6:39 p.m. June 15, 2008

Who is this Cummard guy? I live in Big-12 country and we've never even heard of him.

Is his brother the famous David Cummard out of Adelaide, Australia?

Re: Anonymous | 8:30 p.m. June 15, 2008

He has no first round potential.

All Cummard is gonna do is earn himself a spot in the 2nd rd. Cummard doesnt have the body or athleticism to be a 1st rd.

UNLV | 10:58 p.m. June 15, 2008

He better leave, the way UNLV is stacking up super athletic transfers, it might be best to leave while on top. The Rebels are going to be a beast this year.

Who's heads? | 3:28 p.m. June 16, 2008

Exactly who's heads were turned by Lee? The article said pretty much nothing about who was inpressed by him and who's head he turned. Is it against league rulesfor newpapers to get comments from coaches and staff of NBA teams about the workouts? I have read a lot of articles about the try outs but none of them really say a thing besides the back ground of the player and what his name is. Are we not allowed to know how the workout went? Tell me more about how he's "turning heads" and who's head he is turning.

Caveman | 12:02 a.m. June 17, 2008

Dick, Dick, Dick

Your BYU is showing!

Mesa, Arizona Party | 11:55 a.m. June 17, 2008

Lee Cummard's mother Cheryl needs to take a second mortgage out on the family home and get Lee to one of the world class training centers in the Valley of the Sun - the kind that can put 20 pounds of muscle mass on an NFL or MLB player in 3 months.

Lee is an outstanding team defender and has fine basketball acumen, however he will have trouble guarding 2 position or 3 position wingmen at the next level because of so so quickness and lateral movement. Although he is a different player, Luke Walton of the Lakers enhanced his quickness by getting in superhuman physical condition. Lee needs that also at the next level.

In the coming season, Cummard should lead the team and score, score, score, especially from 3-point land. If there are other Texas A&M games, Cummard needs to put in a solid 20.

yo yo | 4:32 p.m. June 17, 2008

Cummard is a great college player. I'd love to see him playing for PHX next year.

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