New York Knicks: 2017 NBA Draft report cards for all 30 teams
By Yazen Abed
SOUTHWEST DIVISION:
San Antonio Spurs: A-
Additions: No. 29 Derrick White, No. 59 Jaron Blossomgame
I feel like the San Spurs can draft a mop bucket and I would still give them an A somehow. The Spurs took a guy in Derrick White who is similar to Patty Mills, and can be that complimentary backup to Dejounte Murray in the future as Tony Parker’s career winds down.
Jaron Blossomgame could have been a first-round pick last year, but he may have fallen to a perfect situation in the Spurs, who have been known to develop just about anyone.
Houston Rockets: B
Addition: No. 43 Isaiah Hartenstein
A great value pick here as they get a first-round talent in the second round, but he may not be in the league anytime soon for a team looking to win now. The value of the pick gives it a high grade, but the fact that he may not be in the immediate plans for a playoff team stifles that mark just a bit.
Memphis Grizzlies: B+
Additions: No. 35 Ivan Rabb, No. 45 Dillon Brooks
Value, value, value. Ivan Rabb was a legitimate lottery pick if he came out in 2016, but fell due to his play not improving mightily in one year. Him and Deyonta Davis may very well become the replacements for the aging Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol.
Dillon Brooks can be a great sixth man and can be valuable if his 3-point shooting improves.
Dallas Mavericks: A+
Additions: No. 9 Dennis Smith Jr.
The Mavericks hit the jackpot by nabbing Dennis Smith Jr. at No. 9. He’s going to be their franchise point guard to run alongside Harrison Barnes and (maybe) Nerlens Noel, should he re-sign.
Smith is an unbelievable scorer and athlete. He’s reminiscent of Damian Lillard. Smith could have been a top-five pick and should contend for Rookie of the Year.
New Orleans Pelicans: D+
Additions: No. 31 Frank Jackson
The Pelicans tossed their first-round pick to the Kings for DeMarcus Cousins, and were able to get back into the second round by trading Tim Frazier III to the Wizards. Frank Jackson isn’t really a point guard, which the Pelicans desperately need and will not likely amount to being starting material.
A solid role player, sure, but the Pelicans soon need some backcourt help for Anthony Davis and DMC.