Weekend open thread: Trading down

by Mike Prada on Jun 21, 2008 3:43 PM EDT in Draft

I haven't done one of these in a while, but with the draft approaching next week, I figured it was a good time.

It's looking like we aren't going to get past the 18th spot on our draft board before the draft (do vote anyway!), which means we haven't really accounted for what happens in the event that Ernie Grunfeld decides to trade down. This possibility has been hinted at in multiple places, and there are a number of teams looking to move up to the middle of the first round, so it looks like there's at least a chance that something happens.

If we were to move down to the end of the first round/beginning of the second round (aka Sr. Prolopo range), it certainly changes who we can draft. So I ask you all, who should the Wizards target if they move down into the 25-35 range? Throw out a bunch of names of players who would be available that could help us.

I'll start with J.J. Hickson from NC State. He's got good size for a power forward, scores pretty efficiently, rebounds extremely well (top 100 in the country in defensive rebound rate, higher than nearly every big we're considering) and shoots a ton of free throws. He turns the ball over way too much and he tailed off once the competition got stronger, but he has many of the skills this team lacks. Additionally, he reportedly impressed during his workout with the team yesterday.

But that's just one guy. Who else might be a good player to consider if we move down?

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I’d be down with Hickson or D.J. White if they move into that range. Hickson probably gives you more long-term upside but White’s more of a sure thing and is more ready to contribute now.

by MikeMid on Jun 21, 2008 4:06 PM EDT reply actions

Hibbert probably won’t get past Cleveland, but definately won’t slide past Utah at #23…

Chalmers may still be there at somewhere between 25-30…. I like him very much. He could bring some much needed perimeter defense, along with a pretty good outside shot. The Wizards could groom him to be AD’s replacement.

I still think the Wizards need a backup Center, but I’ll take a pass on guys like Jason Thompson (poor defender) and Nathan Jawai (another poor defender) and go with either Omer Asik (European Big with very good Athleticism and a huge upside…. did I just say that?) or DeVon Hardin (good upside, potential to be a good rebounder and defender, especially defending against the pick and roll, and perimeter defense… something the Wiz need.) – Neither of those two would be able to help in the near term, although Asik is closer than Hardin…

by Rook6980 on Jun 21, 2008 5:49 PM EDT reply actions

I just want EG to keep and use the first round pick

Early talks seem to lead toward EG not wanting a first round pick. Wizards need to come out of this with a solid or potential inside player. A guy that can score on the low post and rebound and get rough. They also need a speedy, past first, defensive mined point guard. I really don’t care where they draft to get those types. Hickerson would meet the first need, I don’t think D.J. White is athletic enough to meet the Wizards needs down low.

by LoneWiz54 on Jun 22, 2008 8:58 AM EDT reply actions

I also don't want him to trade down or out of the draft

Though I’m all for BPA with the 18.

You know you'll get devoured by Cheaney, Wallace, and Juwan Howard.

by Mike Prada on Jun 22, 2008 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions

Depends on their grades

If we’re sitting at 18 and there’s 4 or 5 guys there that grade out equally then why wouldn’t they move down if they felt they could still get one of them? And if they get to 18 and none of their targets is still there, why force it? Seattle moving up with #24 and a high second makes the most sense. The Jazz and Spurs both have extra 2’s as well.This is a good pick and stash draft but I think the quality will run out prior to #47.

Omer Asik can join the NBA team that drafts him the same year Haywood and Etan hit free agency. I think he is a high two. Richard Hendrix and Dorsey would be next with Darnell Jackson a possible name at 47.

by Jheiser3 on Jun 22, 2008 9:01 PM EDT reply actions