Atlantic Division Needs in 2013 NBA Draft
The 2013 NBA Draft is approaching fast and it’s time to dive into the decision making side of things here at Rant Sports.
While the prospects remain the focus, we can’t forget about the choices that many NBA organizations will have to face. Do they address their perimeter rotation in the first round? Will they need to over-draft a prospect, just to fill a need? Or, is there just that perfect fit?
Well, let’s first start with the Eastern Conference’s Atlantic Division. From the New York Knicks, who earned the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference this past season to the lowly Toronto Raptors, what are the best fits and what positions do these teams need to address on that final Thursday in June?
Well ironically enough, the Knicks only have one pick in this year’s draft, so they must address a certain need. As for those Raptors -- what will they do considering the fact they don’t currently even hold a selection here in 2013? Yet, let’s not forget about the Brooklyn Nets and their newly hired head coach, Jason Kidd. Or, what about those “rebuilding” Boston Celtics – what do they need to address?
And then there are the Philadelphia 76ers, who sit in the latter portion of the lottery where options should be aplenty.
Well, without further ado, let’s take a look at the biggest team needs for the Atlantic Division:
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New York Knicks
Tyson Chandler anchors the paint for the Knicks, but New York needs to get younger inside. Some options with the 24th overall pick will include Jeff Withey, Tony Mitchell and possibly Gorgui Dieng. New York could also go the international route and take a look at Rudy Gobert or Lucas Nogueira, as well.
Boston Celtics
If the Celtics keep the 16th overall pick, don’t be surprised if they peer into some options that could help bolster a front court that is thin to say the least. Kelly Olynyk, Mason Plumlee, Gorgui Dieng or even Rudy Gobert are all options for Boston.
Brooklyn Nets
Jason Kidd has taken over the reins on the sidelines in Brooklyn, but just what will he do with the 22nd overall pick? The Nets need help at the power forward position, so don’t be surprised if Brooklyn targets Tony Mitchell, Jeff Withey or even Gorgui Dieng.
Philadelphia 76ers
The options are aplenty for the 76ers at No. 11, but they could really use a proven shooting guard in the back court. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope or even C.J. McCollum could certainly be on the team’s radar.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors don’t currently own a single selection in the draft. Toronto could take the night off, but the Raptors need to address the power forward position. Second round prospects like Trevor Mbakwe, Kenny Kadji, Erik Murphy or even Ryan Kelly could tickle their fancy.
