The Knicks picked Iman Shumpert with the 17th pick. Knicks fans booed, but if he's the defensive player they say he is, then he is a much-welcome asset. With Billups injured and Amar'e banged up in the playoffs, it was obvious the Knicks needed scoring to supplement Carmelo. But with Billups and Amar'e in the lineup, that's not a concern. Defense and rebounding are issues with or without any of those three.
Kyrie Irving looked like a pro whenever he entered the court in college. But he has a tough task with a Cleveland team that features limited talent. Derrick Williams could be a good player, but Minnesota has a lot of forwards (and point guards).
Look back at the 2009 Draft and how incredibly deep it was. This draft might be the exact opposite. I'd be surprised if any franchise players came out of this draft. I think there will be a few very good players, but many busts and very few serviceable players out of the second round.
Charlotte got rid of Stephen Jackson and acquired Corey Maggette and Bismack Biyombo. That effectively takes another team out of the Eastern Conference playoff race. I think Kemba Walker will be a good scorer for them though. Portland made a questionable trade in getting Raymond Felton and losing Andre Miller and Rudy Fernandez.
Denver got Miller and will pair with Ty Lawson at the point guard position, which I really like. Denver picked up Kenneth Faried, a perfect fit. Dallas got Fernandez, also a good pickup. Milwaukee got Jackson and Shaun Livingston from Charlotte, and Beno Udrih from Sacramento which will help them. I look for them to make the playoffs.
I also liked what Washington did. I don't know about Jan Vesely, but I like the girl he kissed. And Chris Singleton and Shelvin Mack should help change the culture in DC. I like them to back up Wall and Crawford. I like the direction Detroit is going with Brandon Knight. Their second round picks, Singler and Macklin, could be bonuses. San Antonio acquired Kawhi Leonard, who gives them much-needed depth at forward, and gave up George Hill, who should help Indiana. Maybe the Morris brothers will be something.
But the story is the utter lack of talent and the bevy of reaches on international players.
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