Swirsky

by Chuck Swirsky
--raptors.commentator
June 28, 2002

Earlier I gave you my thoughts on what the Raptors did on draft night, namely picking up an experienced guard in Lindsey Hunter and a player with great upside in Chris Jefferies. Here's a look around the rest of the NBA.

The draft is over but I expect a flurry of offseason trades as a number of teams put themselves in a position to deal from a position of strength.

The Los Angeles Clippers selection of Chris Wilcox added more depth to an already deep frontcourt so one has to speculate GM Elgin Baylor will be in the mood to move a body or two before the start of the 2002-03 campaign. They went after Andre Miller and Baron Davis and just couldn't reach a deal with Cleveland and New Orleans, respectively, but that won't prevent Baylor from trying again. It all comes down to how much are you willing to part with and whether or not you prepared to pay Miller or Davis max money. The Clippers are in a no-win situation. Their young players are developing quickly and all are within reach of free agency within the next two years.

Former Raptors Marcus Camby was dealt to the Nuggets on draft night. Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE Photos

The Knicks picked up a solid player in Antonio McDyess but who will play centre? It can't be Kurt Thomas. For Denver, Marcus Camby can't and won't stay healthy. Mark Jackson will add leadership but he's in the twilight of his career. The Nuggets plans to make a huge run in free agency next season. Great moves by both teams.

Washington's two first-rounders will be huge. I love Jared Jeffries potential and the leadership savvy of Juan Dixon. Second round pick Juan Carlos Navarro is a steal.

Miami has to be overjoyed with the addition of Caron Butler. He can play right now at the NBA level.

Chicago's draft was terrific with Jay Williams and Roger Mason. Williams will bring instant credibility to the Bulls backcourt.

The Hawks needed a point and with the addition of Dickau it should help but their backcourt will be extremely small with Dickau and Jason Terry seeing the majority of minutes.

Golden State did a fabulous job with Dunleavy, and Welsch. I think Dunleavy will be an outstanding pro player.

Qyntel Woods stock dropped big time but if he's got game Portland is the right place to do it. Expect the Blazers to make a few trades along the way. Book it.

Prior to the draft the Wizards sent Courtney Alexander to New Orleans for a first-round pick. There are nights when I see this guy play and I am overwhelmed with his athletic ability. On other nights he disappears. He now finds himself in a winning program and with veterans players around him. He is a gifted player. If he develops any type of consistency this will be a rock solid addition to the Hornets.

Email your questions about the NBA.

Always a pleasure,
Chuck Swirsky