featured-image

Cohen 8-Ball: If There Were No Draft Lottery

Josh Cohen
Digital News Manager

Josh Cohen’s Analysis (Jan. 26, 2014): The Chicago Bulls and Golden State Warriors tied for the worst record in the NBA in 2001-02 and both had an equal chance of getting the No. 1 pick.

The Bulls ended up with the No. 2 selection and opted for Jay Williams, a standout guard at Duke and expected to evolve into one of the premier point guards in the league. But a motorcycle accident after his rookie season resulted in injuries that were too daunting to overcome and Williams’ career was essentially over.

The Warriors were right behind with pick No. 3 and went with another Duke star, Mike Dunleavy Jr. He stayed with the Warriors for five years and currently (and maybe ironically) plays for the Bulls.

Though Yao Ming’s career ended way to prematurely because of injuries, there is no doubt that Chicago and Golden State would have loved to have him for at least a few years.

Note: The contents of this page have not been reviewed or endorsed by the Orlando Magic. All opinions expressed by Josh Cohen are solely his own and do not reflect the opinions of the Orlando Magic or their Basketball Operations staff, partners or sponsors.