Draft Day Preview... (June 29, 1999)

My head is hurting with all the rumors surrounding this NBA draft. There are trades, swaps, picks, and movement. It sounds more like a Jimmy Johnson draft day than the pedestrian NBA draft. I've heard more rumors this year than ever before. Maybe it's because this is a weak draft. Maybe because the draft talent is spread pretty evenly. Maybe it's because the free agent signing period isn't until after the draft. Here's what I can tell you with certainty, nothing is certain. I've seen more mock drafts than the Gap has mock turtlenecks. Let me try to quell some rumors. Tracy McGrady is not going anywhere. Hakeem Olajuwon isn't going anywhere. Anfernee Hardaway, he's staying put too. Ron Mercer, probably going to finish out his contract in Celtic green. I really don't see any major trades. If you read about it, it's most likely not going to happen. That's been my experience. But I could be wrong. Not one to buck a trend, here's my attempt at a mock draft.

Chicago Bulls: Steve Francis. They need a star who can carry a team. He's that man.
Vancouver Grizzlies: Elton Brand. A power forward who can score and rebound.
Charlotte Hornets: Baron Davis. Davis Wesley, meet your replacement.
Los Angeles Clippers: Lamar Odom. It's the Clips. There needs no explanation.
Toronto Raptors: Andre Miller. A mature leader who is a pass first point guard.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Wally Szerbiak. The best shooter in the draft.
Washington Wizards: Richard Hamilton. Insurance if the Wizards lose Richmond.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Corey Maggette. The Cavs need to get more athletic. He's it!
Phoenix Suns: Jonathan Bender. The Suns need some height. He's got that to spare.
Golden State Warriors: Jason Terry. They haven't had a point guard since Tin Hardaway.
Cleveland Cavaliers: William Avery. Makes Brevin Knight tradable.
Toronto Raptors: Evan Eschmeyer. A big man who likes to bang.
Seattle Supersonics: Jumaine Jones. He's got all the skills. A replacement for Hawkins.

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