1. Los Angeles Clippers- Blake Griffin, PF, Oklahoma
A no brainer for the Clippers.  Griffin is the consensus number one player in the draft and even the Clippers can’t screw this up.

Thabeet will be blocking shots in Memphis now.

2. Memphis Grizzlies- Hasheem Thabeet, C, UCONN
The Grizzlies need some interior defense and Thabeet will bring that.  His offensive game is still developing but he can contribute immediately on defense.  The Timberwolves are interested in moving up to this pick to take Thabeet too.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder- Ricky Rubio, PG, Spain
The rumor lately has been the Thunder will pick Rubio if available.  If they pick Rubio it will shift Russell Westbrook to the 2 guard.  Rubio is only 18 and has been playing professionally in Spain since he was 14.

4. Sacramento Kings- Jonny Flynn, PG, Syracuse
No one really knows what the Kings will do.  If Rubio is available he will likely be the pick but if he’s not it be a number of guys including Flynn, Evans, Holiday, or Curry.  Flynn is a leader at the point guard position and has been playing great in workouts recently.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves- James Harden, SG, Arizona State
The Timberwolves gave up Mike Miller and Randy Foye to get this pick and they might use this pick to move up to number 2.  If they keep it Harden looks like the guy.  They have needs are both guard positions now and Harden is the best shoooting guard in the draft.

6. Minnesota Timberwolves- Stephen Curry, PG, Davidson
After taking Harden one pick before the Wolves select his backcourt mate in Curry.  Curry is a deadly shooter which will replace the shooting they lost after trading Mike Miller.

Hill will be the next rookie riding the pine for Don Nelson next season.

7. Golden State Warriors- Jordan Hill, PF, Arizona
The rumor is that if Hill is here at 7 the Warriors will take him.  They have a greater need at point guard but Hill is a good fit in the up tempo offense that they run.  Look for Brandon Wright to be traded this summer if Hill is the pick.

8. New York Knicks- Tyreke Evans, G, Memphis
The Knick big board is rumored to be Cuury, Hill, and Evans.  With the first two gone Evans becomes the pick.  Evans can play both the point and shooting guard and would be a nice fit in Mike D’Antoni’s offense.

9. Toronto Raptors- DeMar DeRozan, SG, USC
The Raptors need a wing player with Shawn Marion headed for free agency.  DeRozan started off slow but turned it on late in the season showing why he was a top recruit.  DeRozan has the potential to be an All-Star but was very inconsistent in college.

10. Milwaukee Bucks- Jrue Holiday, PG, UCLA
The Bucks shipped off Richard Jefferson yesterday but still will likely only be able to retain either Charlie Villanueva or Ramon Sessions.  If they go with a point guard look for Holiday to be the pick.  He didn’t get much playing time at UCLA but has risen up the draft boards in the off season due to his workouts.

11. New Jersey Nets- Terrance Williams, SG, Louisville
Williams will go either here to the Nets or next to Charlotte.  After outplaying Gerald Henderson in a workout it looks like the Nets are targeting Williams as their man.

12. Charlotte Bobcats- Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke
The Bobcats will likely take whoever the Nets pass on eleven.  Henderson has pegged to the Bobcats for months in mocks and will fill a void at shooting guard for the Bobcats.

Blair will bring his toughness to the Indiana frontcourt.

13. Indian Pacers- DeJuan Blair, PF, Pittsburgh
Most mocks have the Pacers taking a point guard here and they still might but Blair would a good fit.  He will bring some toughness and rebounding to a front line that needs some.  There are mild concerns about his knees but it should affect his stock.

14. Phoenix Suns- Brandon Jennings, PG, Italy
Jennings is one of the most talented players in the draft but falls to Suns at 14 because of the great depth at the point guard position.  With Nash set to become a free agent next summer the Suns need a replacement.  Jennings can be an elite player in the league but needs to work on his consistency.

15. Detroit Pistons- B.J. Mullens, C, Ohio State
There are rumors that the Pistons have promised to take Mullens here at 15.  Mullens is very raw and will need time to develop before he can become a good player in the league.

16. Chicago Bulls- Tyler Hansbrough, PF, UNC
The Bulls are looking to move up a few spots in the draft but if they stay put Hansbrough could be their man.  The Bulls need another big man bad and Hansbrough can bring some toughness to their frontcourt and measured in well at the combine.

17. Philadelphia 76ers- Ty Lawson, PG, UNC
With Andre Mille set to become a free agent the 76ers are looking for a point guard and they’re in luck.  Lawson is a bit undersized but makes up for it will his quickness and speed.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves- Earl Clark, F, Louisville
After addressing the backcourt with its first two picks the Wolves will look elsewhere with this pick.  Clark would give them a versatile forward  who can play on the wing or down low in the post.

Atlanta finally finds a point guard in Teague.

19. Atlanta Hawks- Jeff Teague, PG, Atlanta
The Hawks have been searching for a point guard for years and they finally might have their guy.  Teague is a great scorer at the point guard position but will need to work on his playmaking ability in the pros.

20. Utah Jazz- Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh
The Jazz would love to get Hansbrough but will be more than glad to take Young if he’s available.  Young is NBA ready and can step in and play right away at small forward for the Jazz.

21. New Orleans Hornets- Eric Maynor, PG, VCU
The Hornets could look for a wing player but if Maynor is still here it would be hard for them to pass.  They are in need of a backup point guard for Chris Paul and Maynor is one of the most NBA ready point guards in the draft.

22. Dallas Mavericks- Austin Daye, F, Gonzaga
The Mavericks could go in a number of directions with this pick.  Daye has a lot for potential but never really played that well for Gonzaga.  Daye will need time to develop before he can become an effective player in the NBA.

23. Sacramento Kings- Omri Casspi, SF, Israel
Casspi might stay overseas becoming coming to the Kings but could be a real asset for the Kings.  He isn’t the most skilled player but has a lot of toughness which is rare for a European prospect.

24. Portland Trailblazers- James Johnson- F, Wake Forest
The Trailblazers get very lucky here with Johnson slipping all the way to 24.  Johnson has been rumored to go as high as 11 to the Nets.  Johnson is an athletic forward who can play both the 3 and the 4 giving the Trailblazers another weapon.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder- Taj Gibson, PF/C, USC
After taking Rubio earlier in the draft the Thunder can look to addressing their frontcourt.  Gibson won’t be a star in this league but can be a very solid role player for a team.  He has a great motor and can block some shots.

Ellington will bring his smooth shooting touch to the Bulls.

26. Chicago Bulls- Wayne Ellington, SG, UNC
With Ben Gordon likely to leave the Bulls will look to replace him in draft.  Ellington is a deadly shooter, perhaps the best in the draft, which would help offset Gordon’s loss.  The Bulls could also trade this pick to move up or to a team that wants to get back in the first round.

27. Memphis Grizzlies- Darren Collison, PG, UCLA
After taking Thabeet earlier the Grizzlies can look at taking a point guard.  Collison would be an ideal backup point guard to Mike Conely Jr.  He is a great defender and a good decision maker.

28. Minnesota Timberwolves- Nick Calathes- G, Florida
There is no way the Wolves keep four first round picks on their roster so look for this pick to be an international player.  Caltahes recently signed to play in Grecce and the Wolves can let him play there for a year or two before bringing him over.

29. Los Angeles Lakers- DeJuan Summers, F, Georgetown
The Lakers might lose Lamar Odom or Trevor Ariza this summer so taking Summers would be a good insurance policy.  Summers is a 3 who can also play some 4 if needed.  He is a good three point shooter and his game could flourish out of the Princeton offense.

30. Cleveland Cavaliers- Chase Budinger, SG, Arizona
Everyone knows the Cavs really need a big man but at this point in the draft there are none worthy of this pick.  Budinger is the best player available at this point in the draft and can help the Cavs right away giving them some scoring punch off the bench.

Scotty Reynolds, G, Villanova- Return to Villanova
Reynolds decided to return to Villanova for his senior season.  The Wildcats made the Final Four last year and will try to repeat this season with a stacked recruiting class.  Reynolds though, hasn’t improved much since his freshman year and his stock was high as it was ever going to be after his clutch shot against Pittsburgh.  With incoming freshman Dominic Cheek and Maalik Wayns set to steal playing time from Renyolds this doesn’t like the right decision.

Harangody will return to Notre Dame as the Irish try to rebound from last years dissapointing season

Luke Harangody, PF, Notre Dame- Return to Notre Dame
Harangody waited until the final day to decide to come back to Notre Dame for his senior season.  Harangody was a likely second round pick in this years draft if he stayed in.   Harangody will return to Notre Dame and try to make up for a poor seaosn which saw the Irish miss the tournament.  Also by coming back Harangody will break many Notre Dame school records making him go down as one for the best to ever play at Notre Dame.  His draft status probably won’t change much but the allure of the records and fame make it worth going back for Harangody.

Jeff Teague, PG, Wake Forest- Stay
Teague waited until the last minute to decide whether or not to stay in but it seemed like a forgone conclusion he would stay in from the start.  Teague had a great start to the season but tailed off a little at the end including a dreadful performance in the NCAA Tournament against Cleveland State but his stock is still solid.  Teague should go somewhere from the mid first round to the early 20’s in the draft.  A shooting guard in a point guard’s body Teague will need to work on his decision making skills in the NBA to be an effective point guard.

Damion James, F, Texas- Return to Texas
Jones tested the draft waters and apparently couldn’t get a first round guarantee to stay in the draft.  Jones was a bordelrine first round pick and it makes sense to go back to school.  With James back at Texas the Longhorns look like they are a top 5 team and title contender.  James has a great opportunity to improve his game and become a mid first round pick in the 2010 draft.

Tyler Smith, SF, Tennessee- Return to Tennessee
Smith was in a similar situation to James not being able to lock up a first round guarantee and did the same as James and returned to school.  Smith was All SEC the past two years could be again this upcoming season.  Smith made the right decision and with a good season should be a first rounder next year.

Greivis returns to the thrill of Gary Williams and the Maryland fan base

Greivis Vasquez, G, Maryland- Return to Maryland
Vasquez also decided to pull out of the draft on the deadline day to come back for his senior season at Maryland.  Vasquez was a border line first round pick but more than likely would have been a second rounder.  Vasquez is a combo guard and in a draft stacked with guards he made the right decision.  Vasquez was Maryland basketball last season leading them in points, rebounds, and assists and no one is happier to see him return that Maryland coach Gary Williams.

Taj Gibson, PF/C, USC- Stay
Gibson decided to forego his senior season at USC and stay in the NBA Draft.  Gibson is projected to be an early second round pick but it was a wise move to stay in the draft.  There has been a mass exodus at USC thus off season with DeMar DeRozan and Daniel Hackett both leaving as well.  Along with the departure of coach Tim Floyd and possible sanctions to the program gave Gibson more than enough reason not to come back.  Gibson is also 23 years old which surely played a role in his decision as well.

Austin Daye, F, Gonzaga- Stay
Daye is one of the biggest enigmas in the NBA Draft.  This guy has all the potential in the world but never put it all together in his two seasons at Gonzaga.  Daye is very raw but has the athletic ability that teams covet and thus will likely go higher than he should.  Unless he lands in a perfect situation where he cdoesn’t have to play right away he would have been better off going back to Gonzaga to refine and improve his game.

Meeks is passing up to the chance to play for John Calipari

Jodie Meeks, SG, Kentucky- Stay
Meeks shocked the Kentucky fan base with his decision to stay in the NBA Draft.  By staying in the draft Meeks is passing up playing for John Calipari and his drible drive offense, which Meeks was said to be a great fit in.  Meeks is considered a mid second rounder now and while he may not have improved his stock by coming back he definitely could have improved his overall game under.  He also passed up a chance to win a national title with Kentucky slated to be a preseason top 10 team.

Patty Mills, PG, St. Mary‘s- Stay
Mills came onto the national scene last year with a great performance at the Olympics with Australia and followed it up with a good sophomore year at St. Mary’s before he injured his wrist.  Mills is a border line first round pick but you can’t blame for staying in the draft.  There wasn’t much more left to be accomplished at Saint Mary’s for him and if he falls to the second round he could be a steal for one team.

Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech- Return to Georgia Tech
Lawal’s decision to return to school came as a mild surprise.  He was projected by most to go somewhere in the 20’s of the draft and maybe higher due to the lack of quality big men in the draft.  But by returning to Georgia Tech Lawal will get to play with top recruit Derrick Favors next year which should help raise his stock.

15. Detroit Pistons- B.J. Mullens, C, Ohio State
The Pistons could lose Rasheed Wallace, Antonio McDyess, and Kwame Brown in the off season so a froncourt player is needed.  With the Piston looking toward the future they can take a chance on Mullens who will take time to develop.

Blair would give the Bulls some much needed toughness

16. Chicago Bulls- DeJuan Blair, PF, Pittsburgh
There is talk the Bulls have promised to take Mullens here but if he is off the board the next best big available is DeJuan Blair.  Blair would add some much needed toughness and despite his size (6’6) his 7’2 wingspan makes up for it.

17. Philadelphia 76ers- Eric Maynor, PG, VCU
Andre Miller is set to become a free agent this summer so addressing the point guard position is a necessity.  Maynor despite playing at VCU got plenty of media attention thanks to his NCAA tournament performances and can step in and play right away.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves- Earl Clark, F, Louisville
After selecting a point guard earlier in the draft the Timberwolves can addres other positions.  With no centers worthy of this pick the Wolves go with the best plyaer available in Earl Clark.  Clark is a combo forward who if he puts it all together can be special in this league.

19. Atlanta Hawks- Jeff Teague, PG, Wake Forest
The Hawks have been searching for a point guard for years.  To passing over Chris Paul to selecting Acie Law the Hawks have had bad luck.  With Mike Bibby set to become a free agent they will try their luck again.  Teague struggled late in the season but if returns to his early season form this pick could be a steal.

The UNC star ends up in Utah

20. Utah Jazz- Tyler Hansbrough, PF, North Carolina
The Jazz will likely lose either Carlos Boozer or Paul Milsap in the off season and they might lose both creating a huge need at power forward.  Hansbrough measured taller than expected at the combine which helped erase some doubts about this potential in the league.

21. New Orleans Hornets- Marcus Thorton, SG, LSU
The Hornets could use this pick in a number of ways.  They could use a backup oint guard for Chris Paul or a shooting guard after James Posey and Morris Peterson struggled last season.  Thorton is a local player and had a good workout with the Hornets.  There is also the possibility the Hornets could sell this pick for cash.

22. Dallas Mavericks- Chase Budinger, SG, Mavericks
The Mavs are looking for someone whou could help them right away as their core starts to get older.  Budinger could help right away on the wing giving the Mavs a nice player off the bench.  They could also look at a pint guard to replace Jason Kidd.

23. Sacramento Kings- Omri Casspi, SF, Israel
Taking Casspi after Rubio would make it a European sweep for the Kings.  Casspi might saty overseas becoming coming to the Kings but could be a real asset for the Kings.  He isn’t the most skilled player but has a lot of toughness which is rare for a European prospect.

24. Portland Trailblazers- Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh
The Trailblazers don’t have any pressing needs and may look to trade this pick.  If they keept the pick they could use another forward on the wing.  Young was huge for Pitt last year and didn’t get much credit playing in the shadow of Blair but he is NBA ready.

Collison and Westbrook reuinte in Oklahoma City

25. Oklahoma City Thunder- Darren Collison, PG, UCLA
Taking Collison would reunite the UCLA back court from a year ago in Collison and Russell Westbrook.  Westbrook isn’t a natural point guard so the two could play together in the back court like their days at UCLA.   Collison isn’t a big scorer but is a great defender and would be an ideal back up point guard for the Thunder.

26. Chicago Bulls- Toney Douglas, G, Florida State
Ben Gordon had a great series against the Celtics in the playoffs and could cash in this off season.  If he leaves the underrated Douglas would be a fine replacement.  Douglas can play both guard positions and is a good defender.

27. Memphis Grizzlies- Derrick Brown, F, Xavier
The Grizzlies could use a true power forward here but with none available worth the pick they go with Brown.  Brown is a combo forward who has great athletic ability.  He and Rudy Gay could handle both of the forward sports giving the Grizzlies a nice combo.

28. Minnesota Timberwolves- Nick Calathes, G, Florida
This is the Timberwolves third first round pick so I wouldn’t be surprised if they trade this pick or one of their other picks.  I they keep the pick Calathes would be an interesting pick.  Calathes signed with a team in Greece but the Wolves would retain his rights and could stash him there for a couple of years before trying to bring over the talented combo guard.

Daye has potential but will take time to develop

29. Los Angeles Lakers- Austin Daye, F, Gonzaga
The Lakers fresh off a title win don’t have many needs so they can take a project here.  Daye has all the upside in the world but never really put it together at Gonzaga.  In Los Angeles he won’t be forced to play early and can develop.  The 6’10 forward profiles similar to a Lamar Odom, who happens to play for the Lakers.

30. Cleveland Cavaliers- DaJuan Summers, F, Georgetown
After being upset in the playoffs by the Magic the Cavs lack of a true big man was exposed.  They’re not going to find a big man who can play right away here and will probably trade for one (Shaq?).  Their other need is an athletic forward who can guard players like Hedo Tirkoglu and Rashard Lewis.  Summers fit’s the bill and can shoot the ball from 3.

Good News: Blake Griffin is going to Los Angeles. Bad News: It's the Clippers

1. Los Angeles Clippers- Blake Griffin, PF, Oklahoma
This pick has been a lock since the start and apparently since last year.  Even the Clippers can’t screw this one up.  Griffin is the consensus top player in what is considered a weak draft.  The drafting of Griffin will probably force the Clippers to trade either Zach Randolph or Chris Kamen.
Previous Pick: Same

2. Memphis Grizzlies- Hasheem Thabeet, C, UCONN
This is where the drafts starts to get interesting.  The Grizzlies could take Thabeet, Ricky Rubio, or trade the pick perhaps to Sacramento.  The Grizzlies don’t have a big need at center or point guard with Marc Gasol and Mike Conely Jr. at both positions but while Gasol is a solid player you don’t pass up a player like Thabeet for him.  Thabeet will be a defensive force early and if his offensive catches up he could have a career similar to Dikembe Mutombo.
Previous Pick: Ricky Rubio

3. Oklahoma City Thunder- James Harden, SG, Arizona State
The Thunder would love to have Thabeet fall to them to give them an defensive presence inside but will likely have to choose between Harden and Rubio.  The Thunder seem intent on keeping Russell Westbrook at point guard so drafting Harden to play shooting guard seems likely.  Harden would give them another scoring punch and plays good defense.
Previous Pick: Hasheem Thabeet

Ricky Rubio slides to Sacramento

4. Sacramento Kings- Ricky Rubio, PG, Spain
The Kings will be ecstatic if Rubio falls to them at 4.  The Kings went into the lottery thinking they would have Blake Griffin but Rubio would be a hell of a consolation prize.  Rubio is only 18 years old but has been playing professionally in Spain since he was 14.  Also Rubio said he’d be open to playing in Sacramento which can’t be said for Memphis.
Previous Pick: Brandon Jennings

5. Washington Wizards- Tyreke Evans, G, Memphis
The Wizards are a real wild card in the draft.  They have to talent to compete now and are looking to trade the pick for a veteran.  There have been rumors of Dallas and Boston being interested but nothing serious has come of them.  If the Wizards are unable to trade the pick they will likely choose between Tyreke Evans and Jordan Hill.  Evans will give them a guard who they can pair with Gilbert Arenas and play both guard sports.
Previous Pick: Jordan Hill

6. Minnesota Timberwolves- Stephen Curry, PG, Davidson
The Timberwolves clearly need help at point guard and there are plenty to choose from.  They could go with Curry, Evans, Flynn, Holiday, or Jennings.  Curry has been linked to the Knicks since the start of the draft process but has been rising up the boards lately and there is even talk of him going third.  Curry and Randy Foye would give the Timberwolves a very formidable back court.
Previous Pick: James Harden

7. Golden State Warriors- Brandon Jennings, PG, Italy
The Warriors are set with Monte Ellis in the back court but he needs a partner.  Whether the Warriors want to play him at the point or at shooting guard will determine who they pick here.  Brandon Jennings is a traditional point guard who would fit in good in Don Nelson’s up temp system.  Jennings gained invaluable experience playing in Italy last year and Jennings has as much potential as anyone in the draft.
Previous Pick: Tyreke Evans

Could Johnny end up in New York?

8. New York Knicks- Johnny Flynn, PG, Syracuse
Everyone has been plugging Stephen Curry to Knicks and it seems like a perfect match but there is a chance Curry will be gone in which case the Knicks will have to regroup.  If they miss out on Curry, Johnny Flynn would be a great pick.  The Knicks are in dire need of a point guard and Flynn was arguably the best in college basketball down the stretch last year.  Flynn lit up the Big East Tournament last season in Madison Square Garden and he could be calling it home next year.
Previous Pick: Stephen Curry

9. Toronto Raptors- DeMar DeRozan, SG, USC
The Raptors get lucky here with DeRozan slipping all the way to 9.  DeRozan got off to a slow start last year at USC but turned it on once conference play started and showed why he was one of the top recruits in the nation.  DeRozan has tremendous athletic ability and has the potential to be an All Star in the league.  With Shawn Marion and Anthony Parker headed for free agency DeRozan would fill a big need for the Raptors and play right away.
Previous Pick: Same

10. Milwaukee Bucks- Jrue Holiday, G, UCLA
The Bucks have two big free agents this off season in Charlie Villanueva and Ramon Sessions.  Both are restricted free agents but it is likely that the Bucks will lose at least one.  If the Bucks lose Sessions Holiday would be a fine replacement.  Holiday was a top recruit but struggled to find playing time and produce at UCLA in his freshman year.  Holiday has risen up draft boards with good workouts in the pre draft process and could go higher than this.
Previous Pick: DeJuan Blair

11. New Jersey Nets- Jordan Hill, PF, Arizona
The Nets get lucky here with Jordan Hill falling into their lap at number 11.  Hill has been projected to go as high as #5 to Washington and if he falls to them in the real draft it would be a steal.  Hill improved every year while he was at Arizona and only started to play organized basketball as a senior in high school.  Hill will bring energy and rebounding to New Jerseys front line and would team with Brook Lopez to give the Nets a great young front line.
Previous Pick: James Johnson

Henderson would be a good fit in Charlotte

12. Charlotte Bobcats- Gerald Henderson
The Bobcats took a step forward in the first year under Larry Brown but still need help before they are a playoff team.  After trading Jason Richardson the Bobcats created a big gap at shooting guard.  Henderson measured in at 6’5 with a 6’10 wingspan impressive numbers for the Duke alum.  Henderson really came into his own as a junior at Duke and can play right away, something Larry Brown covets in rookies.
Previous Pick: Same

13. Indian Pacers- Ty Lawson, PG, North Carolina
With the influx of point guards available in this draft one of them is certain to fall to the Pacers at 13.  The Pacers seem to be set at the other positions with Brandon Rush at the 2, Danny Granger and Troy Murphy at the forward sports, and Roy Hibbert in the middle.  The T.J. Ford, Jarrett Jack combo at point has not worked out and Lawson cold step in right away and play.  Lawson was lights out in the tournament displaying his leadership and on court.
Previous Pick: Johnny Flynn

14. Phoenix Suns- James Johnson, F, Wake Forest
The Suns could go in a lot of directions with this pick.  The could look at a point guard with Steve Nash set to become a free agent next summer or a center like B.J. Mullens if they decide to trade Shaq but they are most likely to take a wing player a la Shawn Marion and that’s where James Johnson comes in.  Johnson is a hybrid forward that can play both spots and has a great combo of size and strength.  Johnson is also very good in transition making him a good fit in the Suns up temp offense.
Previous Pick: Earl Clark

Check out the rest of round here and check out this other mock draft.

• NBA: Mock Draft v. 1.4

Much is being said of LeBron’s actions following the Game 6 loss when he left the court immedialtely after the bizzer sounded and did not talk to reporters after the game and instead went to the team bus.  Also the next day LeBron did not apolgize for his actions which angered many in the sports world.

When LeBron addresed the media finally he said this “It’s hard for me to congratulate someone after you lose to them. I’m a winner. It’s not being a poor sport or anything like that. But somebody beats you up, you’re not going to congratulate them on beating you up. That doesn’t make sense.”

I initially was not that upset after LeBron walked off the court and din’t shake hands.  He was upset and frustated and did not want to deal with everyhting.  That’s understandable and I was willing to give him a break if he apolgized and said he should have shook hands and congradulated them.

But he didn’t and his comments didn’t sit good with me.  LeBron defended his actions rather than apologizing for them.  He contradicts himself when he says he wasn’t a poor sport.  Not shaking hands with someone after a series is the definition of being a poor sport.  You learn that when you first start playing you always shake hands with the opponent even after a loss.  Even in the UFC they almost always shake hands after a fight.  He also says that he got beat up which he didn’t.  You were defeated LeBron not beat up.  Dwight Howard didn’t knock you out in a back alley he and his team defeated you on the floor.  And another thing LeBron your not a winner.  You haven’t won anything yet.  You’ve reached the NBA Finals once in your six year career.  Michael Jordan is a winner not you.  Get some rings on your fingers before you start saying your a winner.

His actions also set a bad example for the young kids out there.  LeBron is a role model whether he likes it or not.  He’s the most reconzibale player in the league and the face of the NBA.  What is a little kid suppose to think after he sees his idol, LeBron, storm off the court after a loss and not shake anyone’s hand not even his Olympic teammte, Dwight Howard?  He’s more than likely to follow his hero, LeBron, and refuse to shake anyones hand after a loss.  At such a young age sportsmanship is key and if little kids don’t show sportsmanship at a young age they never will.

Throughout this past season LeBron has improved every aspect of his game except one.  That one aspect is class.  LeBron this season has been showboating and celebrating more than he’s ever have.  It has been noticed not really talked about becasue everyone is fascinated with LeBron’s talent and everyone is trying to cpmare him to MJ.  His latest actions have just added more fuel to the fire about LeBron’s class.  Also during the series in a post game press conference he referred to his teammates as his supporting cast.  I’m getting the feeling LeBron, like the rest of America, can’t get enough of himself.  He made a story out of his actions giving himself more attention when in reality it should have been on the Magic.  The Magic shocked everyone by defeating the Cavs yet all everyone is talking about is LeBron and I think he loves it.   He is an immensley talented player but he’s nowhere near the class of the all time greats like MJ and Kareem and unless he notices this and decides to grow up and mature he may never win a title.

Last week ESPN put out an article about the possibility of LeBron James in the NFL and how good he would be.  To sum it up it basically said while LeBron would most likely not pull an MJ and switch sports most people said he would be a good player.

After reading this I thought about for awhile before realizing that how silly it was.  If LeBron played football he would without a doubt be a pro bowl caliber player and one of the best in the league.

In high school LeBron played football for three years and in two of them he was an all state receiver.  In his junior year he had 57 receptions and had 16 touchdowns and holds records that still stand today.  Mark Murphy, who was the defensive coordinator at LeBron’s high school and had an eleven year career in the NFL, said “I tell people that I rate my top receivers — coaching, playing or watching — as James Lofton, Jerry Rice, Steve Largent and LeBron James.”  He went onto say “I felt like that was one kid that could have gone from high school to the NFL and played.”  That is pretty high praise for never playing college football.

When LeBron was in high school he received interest from Ohio State and Notre Dame and probably would have had a scholarship from any college he wanted but he didn’t play football his senior year instead focusing on basketball and his future.  Chip Hillings, who played college football and saw all of LeBron’s games said “If he went to Akron, their football program would have been top 20″ and went on to say ” He really was an incredible football player.”

LeBron is one of the best athletes ever to play.  He stands 6-8 and weighs a solid 250 pounds.  He also has a 44 inch vertical which would be in the top ten all time at the NFL Combine.   Any defensive that lined up against him would have no chance.  Their only chance would be to jam him at the line but LeBron’s brute strength would be too much for them to handle.

LeBron could play wide receiver or tight end and be great at either.  He could follow in the footsteps of Antonio Gates, who played basketball in college then signed with the Chargers after not playing football since high school and turned into a Pro Bowl tight end who set receiving records for tight ends.  Gates is a good athlete but nowhere in the class of LeBron.  Imaging what kind of numbers LeBron could put up is scary.

People have questioned LeBron’s speed saying he probably wouldn’t run in the 4.4′s or 4.5′s.  To that I say just watch LeBron sprint down the court on a dunk or when he chased down Jason Richardson and blocked his dunk attempt from behind.  After watching that you’d have to be silly to deny that LeBron has legit speed and isn’t faster than some of the possesion receivers that have played in the NFL like Keyshawn Johnson.

The ability to deal with the physical aspect has been a knock against LeBron.  True he isn’t used to getting hit and the day to day beating in practice he’d take could affect him.  But LeBron is one of the most physical players in the NBA and his 250 pound frame can take a hit and recover.

There was also talk of LeBron being “too tall.”  Perhaps if LeBron was playing another position like offensive line this could be a problem because he could struggle to create leverage but he’s not.  He’d be a receiver or tigh end.  His 6-8 frame would only benefit him.  Add his 44 inch vertical and he would be the ultimate red zone weapon.  You could simply lob the ball up to him and shorter defensive backs wouldn’t stand a chance.

It’s just a pipe dream now but after the recent bitter loss to Orlando in the playoffs I wouldn’t be surprised if the thought crossed his mind.  After seing Jordan hang them up and decide to play baseball I wouldn’t be surprised to see LeBron give football a go.  LeBron is a winner and he showed that desire after his behavior after the Cavaliers elimation and if he fails to win a championship soon we could be seeing him on Sundays.

Now the Nuggets are going home where they haven’t lost all post season and have won 19 of their past 20 at home including a easy win over the Lakers at the end of the regular season. The Nuggets have proven they can win in L.A. so now the pressure is on the Lakers to prove they can win in Denver.

Chauncey Billups has been absolutely dominating Derrick Fisher so far in the series. Fisher has struggled badly shooting the ball and Billups has had no problem getting in the lane to dish to his teammates. Also Carmelo has really stepped up. He has five strait 30 point games and is proving himself to be one of the games elite. Linas Kleiza was the x-factor last night hitting some big threes for the Nuggets. Denver has all the momentum in the series and the Lakers will need to really show up in Game 3.

Kobe has been clutch in this series carrying the Lakers to a Game 1 victory late and made some big shots down the stretch in Game 2 as well. His teammates have been less than sub par but Kobe has had his share of mishaps. He turned the ball over in the final 30 seconds last night and Chauncey Billups threw the ball off his back on an inbounds play which is only suppose to happen in street ball.

Also if your Phil Jackson how do you not give the ball to Kobe on the final play. Kobe is the best closer in the game and when your down three in the final seconds you don’t use him as a decoy. Derrick Fisher was 1 of 8 before the final shot. Kobe had drained a three just before with Carmelo Anthony in his face. That just doesn’t make any sense and even if Kobe misses the shot you can live with the fact that it was him shooting.

The Lakers have shown up when they have needed to all season long and Game 3 is no different. Denver has all the momentum in the series and the Lakers need to show up to stop the momentum.

6. Minnesota Timberwolves- James Harden, SG, Arizona State
The Timberwolves already have their frontcourt set with Al Jefferson and Kevin Love so they look to Harden as a backcourt mate for point guard Randy Foye.  Harden struggled at the end of last season especially in the NCAA Tournament but can create for himself and can finish at the rim.  Harden is also a good defender and has great range.

7. Golden State Warriors- Tyreke Evans, G, Memphis
The Warrior will be looking for someone to pair with Monta Ellis.  Whether the Warriors want to keep Ellis at the point or move him to the 2 where he will be a bit undersized.  If the Warriors select Evans that would give them great flexibility.  Evans can play both on and off the ball.  He can drive and get to the basket and would be a good fit in the Warriors up temp style of basketball.

8. New York Knicks- Stephen Curry, PG, Davidson
The Kicks are looking to upgrade everywhere on their roster but especially point guard where they would rather have Chris Duhon coming off the bench.  There have been rumors that the Knicks have promised Curry they will take him here.  If they do Curry would be a great fit in Mike D’Antoni’s offense.  Curry is a terrific scorer who can shoot the lights out and has a great basketball IQ, and has a big name making him a great fit in New York.

9. Toronto Raptors- DeMar DeRozan, SG, USC
The Raptors have a need at the two guard and DeRozan would be a good fit.  The Raptors big men like to hang out on the perimeter and the ability of DeRozan to drive to the basket would compliment them.  DeRozan struggled early on in the season but really turned it on once conference play started.  DeRozan has great athleticism and has enormous potential but was inconsistent at times in college.

10. Milwaukee Bucks- DeJuan Blair, PF, Pittsburgh
The Bucks will probably lose Charlie Villanueva to free agency this summer creating a big hole at power forward.  Blair is undersized at 6-7 but has a great wingspan to counter that.  The NBA has seen undersized power forwards succeed recently such as Paul Milsap as Blair is not different.  Blair will give some toughness to the Bucks front line that could use some.  He is a great rebounder  and also solid defensively.  He will need to work on his perimeter game in the pros though.

11. New Jersey Nets- James Johnson, F, Wake Forest
The Nets have needs at both of the forward positions and with Blair off the board Johnson should be the pick.  The Nets are also looking to trade Yi Jianlian which would make forward an ever bigger need.  Johnson also possesses the versatility to play the four if need be.  Johnson can score form the outside and the inside making him hard to defend.  Johnson will need to work on his assertiveness and rounding out his game.

12. Charlotte Bobcats- Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke
The Bobcats have a big need at shooting guard after trading Jason Richardson during last season.  Gerald Henderson is a bit undersized at only 6-5 but makes up for it in other areas of the game.  Larry Brown usually doesn’t play rookies much but Henderson is a great defender and will be hard to sit.  Henderson improved every year in college and especially his junior season but will have to work on consistency at the next level.

13. Indiana Pacers- Johnny Flynn, PG, Syracuse
The Pacers will likely lose Jarret Jack in free agency creating a need at point guard.  Luckily for them there are plenty of good ones in the draft.  They will likely have their choice of Flynn, Ty Lawson, and Eric Maynor.  Flynn has a great season at Syracuse putting the team on his shoulders in the Big East Tournament.  Flynn is a great playmaker at the position but will need to improve his shot selection.

14. Phoenix Suns- Earl Clark, F, Louisville
The Suns could look for a successor for Steve Nash or look to replace Grant Hill.  Earl Clark would be a steal here at 14.  He can both forward positions and will remind Suns fans of Shawn Marion.  Clark is great in transition and would be a prefect fit in the Suns offense.  He is an excellent rebounder and can defend both forward positions but e will need to work on his mental focus if he wants to live up to his potential.

Cleveland will try to run up and down against Orlando.  LeBron will get is but it will be interesting to see if the Magic double team LeBron.  If they choose to double him that will create looks for other guys and get them going.  A better decision is probably to just let LeBron get his and not let his teammates get going.  When LeBron get to the rim he will see Dwight Howard this series and that match up will be key.  If Howard gets in any foul trouble the Magic will be done.  Hedo Turkoglu will guard LeBron and it remains to be seen if he can be the offensive force that he needs to be if he is using his energy guarding LeBron.

Thee three point shot will be huge for the Magic in this series.  The Cavs will likely double Howard when he gets the ball in the post and they should get some kick out looks which they need to make.  They also love to shoot threes in transition.  They have been up and down so far in the post season so guys like Rashard Lewis,  Hedo Turkoglu, Courtney Lee, J.J. Redick, and Rafer Alston will need to be on the game.  Alston especially, in his match up with Mo Williams.  Alston was huge in Game 7 against Boston and played well against the Cavs in the regular season.

Prediction: The Cavs have rolled so far in the playoffs but have not played a team as talented as the Magic.  The Magic will need to win in Cleveland and although I think they might be able to steal one LeBron and company can win two or three in Orlando.  Cavs in 6