Featured
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Published
2 years agoon
By
Joshua![Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/suns-vs-bucks-devin-booker.jpg)
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
After beating the Miami Heat 111-90, the Phoenix Suns clinched a playoff spot. The first team to do it… in March. That is insane as playoff berths typically do not happen in the early days of of March, but the Suns did it.
Picking up their 53rd win of the season allows them to be 8.5 games ahead of the Grizzlies, 9 games ahead of the Warriors, and 11.5 games ahead of the Jazz. Safe to say no one is catching up to Phoenix for the number one seed of the Western Conference.
It is also safe to say that the Suns have been on fire and nothing is going to slow them down; per OddsShark, they are also +450 to win the NBA Title this year, tied with Brooklyn and Golden State. That is the most recent betting line for who is going to win the championship. However, at the beginning of the season, the Suns were not even close to be favorites.
Per FanDuel, the Suns were +1450 to win the championship. Nets, Lakers, Bucks, Warriors, and the Jazz were all ahead of Phoenix. With only 16 games to go that is an incredible turnaround as it goes to show who is the better team in all of this.
But how can that be proven, what makes the Suns the team to beat? If they even are, that will all be broken down right here, right now.
The Suns could be better than the Warriors
People are going to agree, laugh, or just reject this concept that I have put out. However, it may be true. Sure the Warriors have Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and all those other talented players. But they have been struggling recently with injuries and have gotten in a bad stretch of basketball. The Warriors have slowly been losing their touch.
They have been falling out of the second seed to Memphis, 3-7 in their last 10 games, and they are still trying to figure themselves out. What I mean by “figure themselves out” is that with all these injuries they have fallen and have become disconnected. Honestly, without Draymond to be there for Golden State, they have become discombobulated.
Without Green, this franchise is 16-16 this season. But, going deeper, they are 3-7 in their last ten without him. That includes from 2/27 to 3/7 without winning a single game. When you lose to the Knicks and the Lakers you know you have issues.
Injuries have been a huge factor on why the Warriors have been so bad recently; or, rather, in a bad slump. But how are they worse than the Suns?
How are the Suns edging out the Warriors?
The Suns have been battling injuries too, but they have remained intact. No Chris Paul for the remainder of the season is not a problem for the Suns. Currently, this franchise is 5-3 without Paul. The significance comes when everyone realizes that Cameron Payne has been out and Holiday hasn’t solidified himself yet as of that Chris Paul injury. As of that date, now that Payne is back it has been somewhat more smooth.
But during the games that Cameron Payne has missed, the Suns are 16-5. Also, when Devin Booker was missing games due to injuries and H/S Protocols, Phoenix has been 8-3 without the superstar. So with all that being said about injuries, that is one area where the Suns have completely dominated the Warriors in.
So there is no excuse coming from The Bay as the Suns have had more significant injuries by far that could have ruined the remainder of their season.
Defense – an area where Golden State is pathetic in
The Suns are a more complete team than the Warriors, that can be said without question. Why? Because not only have the Suns built a mindset on offense, but also on defense. The Warriors, even during their worst years, have been all about offense more so than defense.
Everyone on the Suns play defense intensely, smartly, and has almost a passion for it. Curry, Thompson, and different players on that roster do not play defense. Steve Kerr and the Warriors have always set the precedent that if they want to win the game it must come from shooting the ball.
Defense is just not their strong suit, or their speciality. To be real, if a game came down to offense-only I would take Golden State. And vice versa if it was a defense-only contest I would then take Phoenix.
The Warriors just do not have that hunger of playing defense as none of those players know how; not all, as people like Draymond Green are excellent defenders. However, the Warriors are always having high-scoring games.
The last time the Warriors held a team to 80 points it came against the Cavaliers on January 9th. The final score was 96-82, but that Cleveland team was depleted and had no true momentum heading into that game due to all the changes, injuries, and H/S Protocols.
The last time the Suns held a team to 80 points it came against the Wizards on February 5th. The final score was 95-80. Also, take note that the Suns are always blowing out their opponents. The Warriors are either getting blown out or narrowly getting a win. Think about it, defense wins games.
Clutch games – the Suns are unmatchable in that department
The Suns have been deemed clutch by many around the league; doesn’t matter who it is, the Suns have been deemed the most clutch team that we have seen all season. Per NBA Stats, the Suns are ranked number one in the clutch. How about the Warriors… surely with all that talent they must rank very well. The Warriors rank eighth in the clutch.
The Suns record is 27-5 in 32 games, while the Warriors record is 20-14 in 34 games.
The Suns rank number one in:
- Per 100 Possessions
- Per Game
- Per 48 Minutes
That was the traditional setting where the Suns ranked at. Even when putting “teams clutch against opponents” the Suns rank number one. Warriors rank number five. In scoring the Suns rank number one, while the Warriors rank number five.
Those statistics right there prove how the Suns are better than the Warriors in terms of being more clutch. It doesn’t get any better than that. Some people always think that the team with flashier players are going to be the most clutch ones on their team. Just because a team has a collection of players that seem to be clutch on a team doesn’t always turn out to be just that.
That is why for the people that have been sleeping on the Suns are now awaking to the power they possess. As a team, they are tremendous.
Lastly, the Suns are more flexible than the Warriors
Without fail has the Suns been more flexible than the Warriors. With all the changes, injuries, ups-and-downs the Suns have endured proves how flexible Phoenix is. When the Warriors have a roadblock, it causes to stumble and wait for that player to come back. However, for the Suns, they plow right through and don’t look back.
Monty Williams and the coaching staff can do that and recognize those issues to correct the things that need to be corrected. That is why the coaching staff of Phoenix is so superior, along with other attributes and skills, same goes for the players.
It is like having the mentality of “next man up,” it truly is. Phoenix is able to get another guy into a position of success easily to where it benefits everyone and everything around them. The Warriors don’t have that mentality as they never prepare for the worse. One team is able to have the depth awareness to fix these issues, while the other one can’t.
Can that not be a fair assessment of things between these two teams? Being flexible and having the ability to change on a dime is so good and cannot be mastered by all 30 teams of the NBA. Suns have found that and have adapted that perfectly.
Who’s the biggest threat to the Suns?
The biggest threat to the Suns could be the Warriors, but that has been debunked on who is better. However, in the Western Conference it is the Warriors (still), Clippers, and Nuggets. Everyone else is questionable. Questionable teams would be Grizzlies, Lakers, and the Jazz.
Since the Lakers have LeBron, and it is Playoff-Bron, you can never count him out. The Grizzlies have been red-hot as of late and with Ja Morant being who he is, everyone should take them seriously. Because if the NBA ended today and the Grizzlies had to take on the Timberwolves, I take the Grizzlies. That is how good they are.
The Jazz are still interesting with Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Okay, fine, that entire team is great as Jordan Clarkson has had our number a few times. Same goes for Mike Conley, their starting point guard.
Is it true the West is getting stronger as the games keep coming?
Yes, from teams 1-10 have made dramatic improvements that are increasing their probability of playoff success. It should scare us, or give us a sense of urgency, as who knows what is going to happen when the playoffs come. The playoffs are another beast that should be taken with great caution. Anything can happen anytime, anywhere.
The West has grown considerably and made teams like Memphis, Denver, Los Angeles (the good team – Clippers), Dallas, and even Utah stronger than ever. That is a very scary sight to behold. So, yes, there is much truth to the West getting stronger as the games keep coming.
In the end, everyone is a threat to the Suns on their path back to the NBA Finals.
Should teams be worried of the Phoenix Suns come the postseason?
One-hundred percent, why? Due to the fact that the Suns have always found a way to win a game, have endless motivation, and the fact that they are that darn good. Teams that even appear to have an edge over the Suns should be nervous, because the Suns are always finding a way past that edge. They have more advantages than disadvantages.
Doesn’t matter if it is injuries, H/S Protocols, or anything like that. For example, all of last year’s postseason series before going up against the Bucks proved that the Suns always found a way to win. They swept the reigning MVP’s team, grooved past the LakeShow (when good) without Chris Paul and other players at full health, and stopped the momentum of the Clippers by going up huge on them.
Plus, take this season, Suns have been completing comebacks. Most recently against the New York Knicks.
Should we be shocked that the Suns have done so well this season + getting the playoff berth first?
No, why? Because they have grown so much in the offseason after making a run to the NBA Finals. They have improved their roster and have found a way to motivate themselves throughout the season on their journey back to the NBA Finals. They have carried momentum since making the playoffs last season.
Truthfully, they are picking up where they left off. However, the only difference is that they have a new game plan and new players. Plus, the Suns were in the top ten of NBA Final Favorites. In the offseason, pre-season, and then heading into the regular season has shown the Suns to be legit.
The signs have been pointing towards the Suns being very good. The only shocking thing here is that the Suns are the first to 40 wins, 50 wins, and the first to clinch a playoff berth. But it was to be expected after having incredible runs in the season, setting records, and just being this fascinating team.
Why is the playoff berth so significant?
The playoff berth cements the Suns as the top team, this makes the Suns undoubtedly the best team in the entire NBA. The whole world can see that by checking the NBA Standings, it is proven and they will remain the number one seed.
The Suns get more publicity, more recognition, and it allows the Suns to be a certified playoff team.
It is just another accolade to the legendary season the Suns are having. This is all being set up to have the Suns prepped for the NBA postseason, and hopefully the NBA Finals.
So now the question has to be asked, “are the Suns the team to beat?”
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Yes, since clinching this playoff spot it has cemented more fear into the hearts of their opponents. Why? Because now teams have to worry about the first-round of the playoffs and having to face the red-hot Suns. Play-In teams will factor that in, eighth seed team will factor that in, etc.
We have covered this before on if the Suns are the team to beat, and, yes, they are the team to beat. Without fail. Phoenix has been on fire and has beaten out the other 29 teams in the NBA; that is no small task and now teams will have to answer to the Suns if they want to win a championship, or even have the possibility to compete.
There is no team in the NBA that can match to the energy, playing style, or anything else comparable to the Suns. The Suns are in their own world, category, and if you want to have a chance in the postseason then you must have Phoenix out of the postseason.
This is a reality that needs to be learned by all teams: the Suns will not go away easily. Injuries, changes in schedules, H/S Protocols, nothing will stop the Suns as they will make adjustments. They are the team to beat as if the Warriors can’t compare to the Suns, then no one can.
Find us on Social Media!
Check out CourtSideHeat’s social media and different platforms:
(Instagram) @courtsideheatnba
(Twitter) @courtsideheat
(Facebook)@courtsideheat
(TikTok) @CourtSideHeat
(Rumble) @CourtSideHeat
(Gettr) @CourtSideHeat
(YouTube) @CourtSideHeat
You may like
Featured
Why Tyus Jones Is The Point Guard The Suns Always Needed
Published
1 month agoon
July 31, 2024By
Joshua![Why Tyus Jones Is The Point Guard The Suns Always Needed](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2071904742.0.jpg)
This past Saturday, fans of the NBA and the Phoenix Suns saw the shocking news that Tyus Jones would be signing with Mat Ishiba’s organization. This was a move that many felt was very improbable due to money, but Phoenix somehow convinced him to take a one-year, $3.3 million deal.
Jones has been a very underrated, underappreciated point guard in the past couple of seasons. There is no bias to that statement, it is simply a fact. He’s only 28 years old, is a 12/7 player, and has propelled his career from being a backup to a full-fledged starter.
While what I have listed is all well in good, not taking away anything, but how does he help the Phoenix Suns? How does Jones bring this team together and much better than what they were last season? Is he their PG savior?
All those questions and more will be answered below.
The skills Tyus Jones possesses:
Ball Protection
He became a full-time starter with the Washington Wizards last season, and it was one of the most impressive point guard seasons I’ve seen in a while. Particularly in this area, why? Jones recorded 485 assists against 66 turnovers; that’s a 7.35 ratio, which is best mark in NBA history.
To provide more context of how stunning that is, only talking last season, Jones was first and Chris Paul was fourth. Paul’s assist to turnover ratio was 5.1, the Point God himself wasn’t close to Jones. It’s extraordinary to dish out seven passes before committing a singular turnover.
Was it a fluke? Absolutely not, here are some more numbers: in 2018-19, he set an NBA record with a 6.96 AST/TO ratio. Later, in 2021-22, Jones topped it with a 7.04 AST/TO ratio. As his minutes and exposure to the court grew, so did his numbers and consistency to the game.
Also, he’s led the league in AST/TO ratio for five straight season. He’s no joke, an absolute stud playmaking-wise.
Pushing The Pace
The Suns have found a happy median between the erratic play of Cam Payne and the slow play of Chris Paul. Jones won’t take 10 seconds to get up court and get a play ready, and he won’t rush it by sprinting with the ball up the court in 1.2 seconds to make a bad decision.
Pushing the pace will keep Phoenix flowing in a positive direction on fast-breaks and bringing the ball up the court on usual inbounds. What he did in Memphis with the Grizzlies was absolutely fantastic, and was a sizable chunk of his game.
In the final season with Memphis, they were fifth in pace (possessions per 48 minutes), which featured him being second in fast-break points. About 20% of his offense accounted from scoring on fast-breaks and transitions.
Jones has played in different styles of tempos and can adjust very well to head coach Mike Budenholzer’s tempo. His excellence on pushing pace has been seen through his overall basketball IQ and how he handles the ball as a primary facilitator and floor general.
Shot Creation & Ball Handling
As a full-time starter, fans have seen his shooting performances on the rise. In 2022-23, Jones averaged 10.3 points on 43.8% from the field. In 2023-24, Jones averaged 12.0 points on 48.9% from the field.
His ball handling skills has allowed him to create shots, create space, and get pretty good looks. That is why he’s able to have such a high percentage from the field; it should also be noted that the more he dribbles the more efficient he is scoring-wise.
After taking two dribbles then the shot, Jones converts it at a 51.6% success rate. Let’s say it’s three or more dribbles, he’s still knocking them down at a 49.1% success rate. The model of today’s NBA is to catch-and-shoot or take one dribble only, but Tyus Jones is completely different.
This is what has made him so effective and dangerous around the perimeter and beyond the arc. It is visually and statistically proven. These two features of his game has sent him from being a backup trying to prove himself to a full-blown starter that can lead a team in a positive, unselfish way.
How does Tyus Jones help the Phoenix Suns?
If anyone has lived under a rock for the past season when it comes to Phoenix basketball, let me painfully fill you in on the horrors this team had to go through. Mind you, I’m a diehard Suns fan, so this kills me.
Anyways, the Suns were the most hideous team with no continuity or consistency as an offensive group due to having no point guard that led to high turnovers and defensive breakdowns. We collapsed in the third quarter, offensively and defensively, but if we survived that quarter, it would definitely die in the fourth quarter.
Turnovers were a massive problem, as stated above, with the Suns averaging 14.1 turnovers per game. No franchise can be a sustainable, winning, championship-contending team if they are committing that many turnovers.
Plus, having no true point guard couldn’t facilitate or help function the rest of the pieces on the court. It looked to appear that this team had no chemistry, intensity, or understanding of the game of basketball.
Devin Booker was not the answer; Bradley Beal was not the answer; nor was Kevin Durant, Isaiah Thomas (wasn’t even given a shot), Grayson Allen, nobody was the answer.
So, how does Tyus Jones become Phoenix’s savior?
He’s a true point guard who doesn’t need to always score and will, in fact, look to get the primary scorers open and able to get “easier” shots. There will be less frustration from players, more chemistry, pressure will be taken off of the “Big 3” to move around the ball, less iso-ball, and other things along those lines.
Fans, reading this article and knowing Jones already, know who Jones is and will always continue to be. His playing style is incredible and it will fit within Phoenix’s scheme of the coaches and the players.
With him running the offense, there won’t be 14 turnovers per game anymore. There won’t be constant traps and pressures put on Phoenix’s players when bringing up the ball. What makes this even more beautiful as a fan of the Phoenix Suns is knowing that everyone will be involved, there will be no more (to limited) iso-ball, and stars can return to their natural roles.
Conclusion
This isn’t rocket science, right? Phoenix always needed a point guard, a true play-making guard. James Jones has finally found him and has finally be able to sign him. Everything I’ve listed in this article from his main skills to the problems of the Phoenix Suns all go together because the problems can be solved with his talents.
Phoenix struggled in the third quarter because they didn’t have a point guard, same goes for their fourth quarter struggles. When a team can’t pass the ball, and has to play hero-ball to generate scoring opportunities, they are bound to collapse and stall out like an old car.
The health of this offense, and this team in general, needed a point guard. We found that out with Chris Paul, now we’ve found a younger and almost better version of him for the modern-day Suns.
There was no secret code to figuring out how to “fix” the Suns; they just needed a point guard, a reliable and beyond ready-to-play point guard.
I’ve always wanted him here in Phoenix, and, now, management has secured him.
Featured
Why The Knicks Adding Mikal Bridges Makes Them Title Contenders
Published
2 months agoon
July 9, 2024By
Joshua![Why The Knicks Adding Mikal Bridges Makes Them Title Contenders](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1863302080.0.jpg)
Mikal Bridges was traded to the New York Knicks for the price of five first-rounders and Bojan Bogdanovic, which isn’t much in the eyes of New York.
They don’t need the picks, and while Bogdanovic was great to have, he was very much replaceable when a player like Bridges could land. I say all this to say that General Manager Gersson Rosas hit the jackpot, which sets them up for many years of potential championship runs.
In today’s article, I will be breaking down why Bridges is an excellent fit for New York, why the Knicks are now a legitimized threat in the East, and how their starting five can take on the reigning champs – the Boston Celtics.
What does the 27-year-old add to this franchise?
First of all, here is the official trade for anyone that is curious:
Knicks traded Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton, Mamadi Diakite, five first-rounders, a first-round pick swap, and a future second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Bridges, Keita Bates-Diop, and a future second-round pick in exchange.
I wanted to clarify this trade. Critics call this move the best move this offseason because it truly is a steal. We can talk about his lack of a resume from his time with the Phoenix Suns to now, but that isn’t his fault.
Who is Mikal Bridges? He is an underrated two-way player who elevates a team’s defense with the ability to score an efficient 20 points per game; plus, his skill as a shot creator and space creator is another reason why so many teams wanted Bridges on their team. Pay attention to teams like the Houston Rockets.
But how does this positively impact the Knicks?
Jalen Brunson is the primary scorer, has been, and always will be, so don’t think Bridges will come in here and disrupt that in any shape, form, or fashion. It will be the complete opposite. Bridges is a full-on team player. He will complement and benefit Brunson as a secondary creator who will take pressure off Brunson.
Beyond his offensive aspect, let’s talk about his defense. When Bridges was with Phoenix, nobody knew he had the capability to score in high volumes. Statistically, he averaged roughly 12 points during his time with the Suns. What people did talk about was his defensive presence, intensity, and how much of a nightmare he was covering pretty much anyone (within reason).
Also, let’s be fair to Bridges: his offensive game came in the final season with Phoenix due to injuries and other factors, as that’s when his potential scoring was revealed to the world. It then exploded when he arrived in Brooklyn. So, this tells his story, and his style is even better.
However, back to defense. Bridges is a pivotal piece due to him being a scrappy player who will always fight for loose balls, rebounds, try to get steals/blocks, and stuff that doesn’t get recorded.
Plus, his style of basketball is very intriguing, especially since he can play multiple positions. Bridges is essentially the “glue” on any team he is on. This is why front offices and head coaches value him and hold him in such high regard; his overall play in this game is beyond exceptional.
Everything I have listed offensively and defensively positively impacts New York because this is everything they wanted in a player and value. Now, there is one more factor that sealed the deal in this whole transaction.
The Nova Knicks have the greatest chemistry ever
Since their time at Villanova, Brunson, Bridges, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo have been teammates or friends. Now, they’ve all rejoined each other to create the “Nova Knicks,” which has become popular since the trade before day one of the 2024 NBA draft.
Teams worry about putting players together and seeing how they build chemistry, react, roles, and egos, and how that all translates to winning basketball games. It’s hit-or-miss; sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t. The Knicks, however, don’t have to worry about that.
First, most of this team doesn’t have impeding egos that ruin franchises. I don’t think of anyone who does. Second, when you have high-level athletes and players connected for years, that is going to make the integration process very easy and winning games even easier.
With the preexisting chemistry between those four players and the ones already being constructed through the entire roster, this team will be locked in for game one of the next season.
This team being dangerous is no longer a what-if but a reality
The chatter of New York is a team that can’t get out of the second round, striking no fear into the hearts of their opponents, and being the same old failing Knicks is no longer here. It shouldn’t be, as this team has changed and has improved drastically through a couple of moves in the draft and overall offseason.
Sticking with Bridges, though, their starting five is beyond dangerous. They’ll be starting Brunson (PG), Bridges (SG), OG Anunoby (SF), Julius Randle (PF), and Mitchell Robinson (C). Many teams can’t compete with, as that is one heck of a starting lineup.
Who in the East can beat them outside of Boston? New York was the second seed last season; they won 50 games. Now, they’ve made improvements by adding Bridges, and they didn’t have to unload their roster like Phoenix did for a big-name player.
If these teams couldn’t drag them down last year, what makes anyone think it will be different this season? Yes, teams did make moves. However, they did lose pieces. While New York did lose Isaiah Hartenstein, they still have Mitchell Robinson. Robinson is a solid center who, when healthy, is a double-double machine that is an incredible rim protector.
My point is this: New York didn’t clear the house to land a solid piece. Not only did they stay as a 50-win team, but by getting Bridges, Leon Rose has increased their games of winning by at least five. New York could see themselves as a 55-60 win team next season, not even exaggerating.
The addition of Bridges only made them scarier; there was no need to take a step back. This was a strategic move to keep them contending without sacrificing a known name. Given who Mikal is and who the Knicks were last season, this should frighten teams and fanbases heading into next season.
Can the Knicks beat the Celtics?
I love talking about the Knicks and their chances of winning a championship, but their number one enemy in the East is the Boston Celtics. While I would want to ride the hype train longer, we need to be ultra-realistic.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown’s Celtics are the reigning champs; Boston has one of the most impressive groups the NBA has seen in a while. Like other teams, they aren’t going anywhere, as the Knicks are building up their team to dethrone the champs.
Personally, I am not going to take the Knicks over the Celtics. There are several reasons, but nobody can stop Boston. Not the Mavericks, Nuggets, 76ers, Suns, Bucks, Timberwolves, absolutely nobody can. Boston could make a dynasty out of this, or at least a two-three championship run.
So, for right now, I’m taking Boston over New York. Let’s wait to get ahead of ourselves until we see them go head-to-head next season. It’s not diminishing the Knicks, but nobody can beat the Celtics.
Conclusion: The Knicks are title contenders
While I said they can’t beat the Celtics, I never said they couldn’t win a ring or compete for one. Even though nobody can beat the Celtics, few teams can match up against New York.
The Knicks made the East grueling during the regular season, which won’t change. If they can stay healthy, which looks very good, they can be number two in their conference again. Opposing teams will have to get through New York, which’ll be a struggle.
Even teams in the West have to watch out for New York. New York is a growing threat, doing everything perfectly in the offseason and trying to replicate their success from last season. Fans will be witnessing prime New York years; it will start next season, as this team has all the makings to win a championship.
Randle and Anunoby are going to be healthy, and Brunson will continue to be healthy. Bridges is Iron Man; nothing stops that man. Robinson will be a productive center, boosting the Knicks in many ways. Hart will continue his high-minute, high-production nights. The entire team will be functioning in a high capacity.
There is no better time to be a Knicks fan than right now; I’m excited, as this year will be a fun ride.
2024 NBA Draft
2024 Mock NBA Draft (Lottery Picks)
Published
2 months agoon
June 26, 2024By
Joshua![2024 Mock NBA Draft (Lottery Picks)](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/sarr-primeira-escolha_widelg.jpeg)
2024 Mock NBA Draft (Lottery Picks)
This is CourtSideHeat’s official mock draft featuring this year’s lottery teams; big names like Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, Stephon Castle, Devin Carter, and so many others will be drafted within the first fourteen spots.
In today’s article, I’ll predict where each player will go and why they are the right fit for their respective team. The draft begins at 8 PM Eastern.
First overall pick: Atlanta Hawks
When Atlanta won the first pick, many thought Alex Sarr would be selected by the franchise. The going belief was pairing him with either Trae Young or Dejounte Murray, depending on how that situation unfolds.
However, reports are now speculating that Risacher will be going first to Atlanta. Beyond the rumors and reports, CourtSideHeat believes Zaccharie Risacher will be the first selection in this year’s draft.
Even though he needs to improve his jump shot, or lack thereof, he is still a solid defenseman who can shoot the three-ball. He’s shown glimpses of being able to play professional ball at the next level, as his quick decision-making and ability to help their frontcourt are major bonuses within the organization.
The upside is very real, and he should go number one.
Second overall pick: Washington Wizards
Washington will select Alex Sarr, as Sarr is easily the team’s number-one pick. Either Sarr or Risacher could be the first player selected, but if Sarr falls to second, don’t be shocked if the Wizards select the skilled big man.
While he doesn’t have a consistent long-range shot, his inside game on both ends of the floor is deeply intriguing. It’s so intriguing that Washington will pass up on getting a high-quality point guard. His potential as a stretch big should not be ruled out; even beyond that, his defensive skills as a shot blocker are an unfair advantage for whoever drafts him.
If you want a player who can play defense and has a legit perimeter skill set, look no further than the 19-year-old Frenchman.
Third overall pick: Houston Rockets
Let’s assume Houston decides not to trade the pick, which is up in the air due to recent reports, they should draft a high-value combo guard that can sit behind Fred VanVleet and learn a lot from the former championship-winning veteran.
That is why Houston’s front office should select Reed Sheppard. The upside is ridiculous, as CourtSideHeat has him as the best point guard and combo guard in this year’s draft class. Besides him being able to play either backcourt position, he is a very skilled guard who has the potential be an elite offensive player in this league.
Sheppard is an outstanding dribbler, passer, space creator, and shot creator. What he can do for himself and for his teammates is beyond comprehension. Houston’s bench, and soon their starting lineup, would love him.
This is all predicated on the ideology of them keeping their pick.
Fourth overall pick: San Antonio Spurs
Will the Spurs be controversial? Who knows, as many do want them to take Matas Buzelis. However, CourtSideHeat is projecting San Antonio to land Stephon Castle. Don’t be taken aback when this happens; why? Because he is a cornerstone point guard who can compliment Victor Wembanyama.
He has very strong playmaking skills and the ability to play incredibly versatile defense, which should not go unnoticed. While the stats aren’t popping out, he’s seen as an underrated player who led UConn to a championship.
While shot making is questionable, how he’ll be able to get his teammates involved and be an offensive facilitator for this team will be more impactful than anything. Gregg Popovich will be happy to have him paired with Wemby.
Fifth overall pick: Detroit Pistons
This selection is tough, as people can make the case for either Buzelis or Donovan Clingan. Personally, I believe Donovan Clingan will be selected by the Detroit Pistons. To pass up on the additional rim protection and having the best center from this draft class would be criminally insane.
A frontcourt featuring him and Jalen Duren would be unstoppable, plus it would speed up their rebuilding phase. A big 3 centered around him, Duren, and Cade Cunningham (when healthy) would be a league-wide threat.
Despite his shot-making and mobility is questionable, he’s an interior beast on both ends of the court. In many people’s eyes, Clingan has been seen as a first-overall pick, but if he falls, he will go straight to Detroit.
Sixth overall pick: Charlotte Hornets
Matas Buzelis will be selected with the sixth pick in this year’s NBA draft, as the Hornets can do so many great things with him. Pairing him alongside Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball would be great for their young, talented unit.
He’s regarded as a point-forward player who communicates with teammates to keep the offense humming, has a decent shot (three-ball a little iffy), has a great touch around the rim, and can play fantastic defense. His game is not really limited, as the areas he lacks in, he makes up with in the ones he excels and punishes teams with.
Buzelis is highly talented and deserves to be a top-ten prospect.
Seventh overall pick: Portland Trail Blazers
Cody Williams is projected to be selected by Portland unless Donovan Clingan is still somehow available. However, assuming he’s gone, Williams should be the newest addition to a rebuilding Blazers.
How reliable he is as a shooter is concerning; inconsistency and reluctance are the two best words to describe his shooting game. It is definitely something that needs to be addressed, but he is a dynamic finisher and a solid playmaker.
Jalen Williams’ brother has been regarded as a top-5 pick and as a surefire lottery pick. He can play tremendous defense, foul-bait, and penetrate the defense. CourtSideHeat has him as a top-10 pick with real potential to grow and to flourish under Chauncey Billups.
Eighth overall pick: San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio is one lucky team in recent draft memory, as they have two lottery picks. While this class isn’t regarded as the best, it is still monumental to have two lottery picks that allow a brighter future for an obviously rebuilding team.
That’s why they’ll be drafting Ron Holland, who is an eye-drawing wing player. Want to talk about an athletic, two-way player that is gritty-gutty? Then let’s talk about the player coming out of the G League Ignite.
The very young player is perfect for improvement and will serve to be a fantastic starting player; he can get paired with both Wemby and newly drafted Castle. Holland will create waves in the NBA.
Ninth overall pick: Memphis Grizzlies
Devin Carter should be selected by a young, rebuilding Memphis franchise – if going off of the premise they are going to take the best guard at that pick. Could it be Dalton Knecht? Yes, but older is not always better.
Plus, with Carter, he is a high volume scorer and rebounder. The level he plays with on both ends of the court is something the Grizzlies love as a characteristic in their players. Just like in college, expect to see him play defense and generate steals and blocks.
Tenth overall pick: Utah Jazz
Dalton Knecht will provide great shooting for Utah, as they are a team that needs a wing player and another shooter like Knecht. Despite him being 23-years-old, he’s an excellent movement and pull-up shooter.
Knecht can easily take his college experiences and translate them to the National Basketball Association; he plays a little gritty-gutty, will play solid defense, and drive to the hole or hit a quick three. Something the Jazz desperately need, as they aren’t rebuilding but also aren’t playoff contending.
Not only can he do it all as a shooter, but he can catch fire, and once he catches fire, it is over for everyone. Expect Knecht be gone before pick eleven.
Eleventh overall pick: Chicago Bulls
Chicago needs to replace Alex Caruso, despite adding Josh Giddey, and the perfect player would Rob Dillingham. He is a very skilled, agile point guard who plays it exceptionally well on both ends of the court.
The 19-year-old is the best option for the Bulls, as not only is his skillset an extreme positive, it provides more stability to their backcourt. Something they’ve been wanting since dealing with the Lonzo Ball fiasco.
Him and Coby White would be a top duo in this league, which could make or break their odds of going to the Play-In Tournament or first round. Also, Zach LaVine is most likely gone. So, management will be looking for a potential solution. Dillingham could be that solution.
Twelfth overall pick: Oklahoma City Thunder
Like what the Bulls did, the Thunder need to replace the hole Josh Giddey left. Despite the new plans for Giddey was to come off the bench, his production will be greatly missed. With that being said, Nikola Topic should be selected by Oklahoma City.
Now, I understand the hesitancy with selecting him this high into the draft. The 18-year-old is coming off a tore ACL, which is a horrific injury suffered way too early in someone’s career, however, Sam Presti can take the gamble.
To replace a bench player, he would be a great addition. Topic is a solid playmaker with a good shot, plus he’s a crafty shooter that can turn his game into something deadly. This point forward can play on both sides of the court pretty efficiently, which allows for better bench defense and can turn into starter-like minutes.
Thirteenth overall pick: Sacramento Kings
His stock has risen considerably since taking Purdue to the championship game and what scouts have been able to see of him, which is why Sacramento should be selecting Zach Edey in the lottery. Could this be a risk? Yes, but it is one willing to take.
Edey’s stock has been in the range of either mid-to-late first round, but it has skyrocketed the closer the draft comes. The 22-year-old is coming off an impressive 25 points and 12 rebounds per game season; something that has many teams interested.
The center position is lacking for the Kings, so it would make incredible sense for them to get an impactful player like Edey. He’s an interior player that is hard to stop on both ends of the floor, which is great for easy buckets or contesting/blocking shots.
He can play good defense, get teammates open through setting screens and causing traffic jams, and a good low-scoring package. CourtSideHeat believes Edey will go in the lottery without question.
Fourteenth overall pick: Portland Trail Blazers
Just like the Spurs, the Trail Blazers have two picks in this year’s lottery. That is why CourtSideHeat is projecting them to go all-in on remodeling their frontcourt through the draft; Portland already selected Cody Williams, now they’ll be picking Tristan da Silva.
The biggest concerns facing him would be his lack of athleticism and ability to be effective on both ends; that by far has caused the most panic amongst teams selecting him in the lottery; however, I’m pretty confident he’ll be selected in the later stages of the lottery.
For Portland, it would make sense to draft him. Da Silva has great shooting versatility, especially as a player who specializes in playing either forward position. He’s able to knock down any shot on the court, with his three-ball being a highlight of his game.
I don’t see his lack of athletic abilities being a deterrent for him being selected high in the draft; his basketball IQ is very good, he is able to shoot the ball from anywhere, can pass well, defensively solid, and controls the rim.
Portland should run the “risk” on choosing da Silva.
Conclusion:
This is the end of CourtSideHeat’s official mock draft. The draft is a two-day event starting on Wednesday and concluding on Thursday. First round is Wednesday, second round is Thursday.
All these picks are very good picks for teams that are ready to push themselves into a deeper postseason run, like the Thunder, and for teams who are continually building weapons around a franchise player, like the Spurs.
Notable names that could go in the lottery, if things were to be shaken up, would be Kel’el Ware, Tidjane Salaun, Ja’Kobe Walter, and even Tyler Kolek. However, I’m pretty certain and confident in the fourteen players who were selected in my mock draft.
However, time will tell, as we are quickly approaching this year’s NBA draft.
![](https://www.mvpthemes.com/zoxnews/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/zox300.png)
![Jamal Murray Signs $208 Million Extension With Nuggets](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/663504be05ac55.96427815-80x80.webp)
Jamal Murray Signs $208 Million Extension With Nuggets
![This Is How I Rebuilt The Phoenix Suns In NBA 2K25](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/sunsrebuild2k25-80x80.jpg)
This Is How I Rebuilt The Phoenix Suns In NBA 2K25
![Ivica Zubac Signs Extension With Clippers](https://courtsideheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GettyImages-2149577749-1-80x80.webp)