The ping pong balls knew nothing about Derrick Rose when they chose the Chicago Bulls to receive the No. 1 pick in last year’s NBA Draft. Will fate again intervene on a team’s behalf when this year’s NBA Draft Lottery takes place Tuesday in Secaucus, N.J.? Here’s how things could unfold for some of this year’s lottery teams.
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Rapid Rise
Washington (2008-09 record: 2nd worst record in NBA) » Health concerns abound, for sure. But if the Wizards get the pick they deserve thanks to their horrible 2008-09 record, a place in the Eastern Conference’s top four is possible. And that means either by taking Blake Griffin or making a trade.
Phoenix (08-09: 14th worst) » No one expected this team to be here. If they manage a top-five pick or higher, the Suns could immediately be back in serious contention. The Suns don’t need Ricky Rubio immediately. However, he could ensure an up-tempo system for years and allow them to trade Steve Nash.
Toronto (08-09: 9th worst) » Frontcourt depth needed, and Chris Bosh can’t get away. The Eastern Conference is weak enough that the Raptors don’t need much.
Slow climb
Memphis (08-09: 6th worst) » Some nice pieces in place already (Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo), but here’s the problem: the Grizzlies are in the Western Conference. One top pick isn’t enough.
Oklahoma City (08-09: 4th worst) » Still a pretty bad team. But it would be Chicago-Rose all over again should No. 1 overall go to the Thunder, whose deal with the devil would be complete with a signing of Griffin.
Golden State (08-09: 7th worst) » Draft impact likely to be overshadowed by other moves, including potential return of Baron Davis. At least that’s the rumor.
See you next year
Sacramento (08-09: worst) » One star (Kevin Martin), no coach. Not much hope for the Kings.
L.A. Clippers (08-09: 3rd worst) » See also: Sacramento, then add injury-riddled, badly coached and shunned by history.
Indiana (08-09: 13th worst) » The Pacers weren’t terrible last season, but Danny Granger is just a starting point, and one big-time rookie doesn’t solve this team’s overall defensive woes.