With the 2009 NBA Draft complete, we have finished grading each team on their picks. Though it takes time to see how a class will actually pan out, the grades should give an indication of the value and fit of each play for each team.
Picks: James Johnson (#16), Taj Gibson (#26).
Grade: C+.
Analysis: For years, the Bulls have needed to find a power forward that is an offensive threat, a role that Johnson could fill if he commits to being a 4. Taj Gibson, who is already 24, is a decent shot blocker and rebounder, but those are two skills that Chicago already gets from Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas. Overall, I think Chicago could have done better.
Picks: Christian Eyenga (#30), Danny Green (#46).
Grade: B.
Analysis: By most accounts, Eyenga is a solid talent who entered the draft too early but can stay overseas for a few years to continue his development. Danny Green, however, is an excellent pick that could develop into an valuable role player for the Cavs; the fact that he can defend and shoot the three makes him a good fit next to LeBron.
Picks: Austin Daye (#15), DaJuan Summers (#35), Jonas Jerebko (#39),.
Grade: B+.
Analysis: With the exception of the Daye pick, which made my lower my grade, I really liked the Pistons draft. Starting with the positives, Summers is a skilled forward with good potential; he was a good value early in the second. Jerebko, a decent athlete, knows how to play, helping his team with his ability to shoot and play defense. They were able to move Chase Budinger, drafted at #44, for a future second. Daye is a major question though. He is skilled, but he isn't particularly athletic, and his lack of strength will be a major hinderance to his career. It will take time to adjust to the physical nature of the NBA, something that he may never be able to do.
Picks: Tyler Hansbrough (#13), AJ Price (#52).
Grade: B-.
Analysis: The Pacers had two major needs in this draft: power forward and point guard. They addressed both. Though Hansbrough will not be a special player, he won't be terrible either. At the very least, he should be a decent big off of the bench. As for Price, he is a true point guard that could make the roster, but it doesn't seem likely that he will be anything more than that.
Picks: Brandon Jennings (#10), Jodie Meeks (#41).
Grade: B+.
Analysis: With Ramon Sessions status in question and Luke Ridnour still Luke Ridnour, the Bucks needed to address point guard. Like most prospects in this draft, there are major question marks regarding Jennings, but he is still one of the most talented points in the draft. If Scott Skiles is willing to let him play through his mistakes, he could work for the Bucks. I think the Bucks made an great pick with Meeks in the second. He can flat-out score, a skill Milwaukee may need if Michael Redd can't recover from his knee injury.
