| Grizzlies Have A+ Draft Authored by Patrick J. Austin - June 29, 2006 - 3:18 pm
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The trade, which many consider to be flat out robbery by Memphis, involves sending Shane Battier to the Houston Rockets in exchange for former Grizzlie, Stromile Swift, and draft-day steal, Rudy Gay. This trade isn’t “official” due to Shane Battier’s Base-Year-Compensation status. But have no worries, this status will be lifted on July 12th (when new salaries take effect) and the deal will be consummated.
This trade is amazing for the Grizzlies. Acquiring Swift and Gay instantly improves the team’s overall athleticism and talent level. It’s tough to see Shane Battier go since he’s such a likeable guy and the definition of a do-it-all role player, but when a deal like this comes along you can’t pass it up. Rudy Gay has the potential to be a very special player. I was stunned to see him drop to #8. His combination of athleticism, length, and overall ability is rare. Pairing him with Pau Gasol gives Memphis a very promising combo to construct a team around.
For all you die-hard Battier fans, just think of it like this – Battier is always going to be just a good player; a complimentary piece. Rudy Gay can be a great player; even a franchise player. Yes, he has that kind of talent.
Let’s not forget the return of Stromile Swift. It’s good to see him back with the Grizz, especially when you consider the uncertainty in the frontcourt. If Lorenzon Wright bolts via free agency, it’s nice to know we have someone who can step in and produce. However, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Swift re-traded for a legitimate center. It’s just a gut-feeling, but I think Mr. West will try to package Swift with Mike Miller or Eddie Jones to try and land someone like Jamaal Magloire or possibly a sign and trade for Nene.
Okay, I’ve gotten my elation about the trade out the way. Now, let’s take a look at the draft selections. With the 24th pick, the Grizz selected Villanova point guard, Kyle Lowry. This kid definitely has talent and will be a factor on the team. He’s lightning quick and has a fantastic work ethic. His detractors say he’s too small (listed at 6’0) and his jumpshot is nonexistent. There is some validity to these criticisms but I think he has the drive to improve his shot and the size issue isn’t that big of a deal. Just look at the 05-06 Rookie of the Year, Chris Paul (listed at 5’11).
Memphis made a smaller trade and landed Alexander Johnson, who was selected with the 45th pick. Johnson is a seasoned big man who’ll be able to step in and produce right away. His body looks like it’s made out of granite so he should be able to hold his own down in the paint and rebound the ball.
Overall, it was a fantastic draft for the Memphis Grizzlies. We needed a point guard; we got one in Lowry. We needed size up front; we got that in Swift and Johnson. And best of all, we landed a star-caliber small forward in Rudy Gay. Major kudos needs to be given to Jerry West. His draft-day choices have been suspect the past couple of years (i.e. Troy Bell, Robert Archibald, etc.) but this year he gets an A+ in my book. He’s a genius, simple as that. |
