Mock Draft 1.0 (Picks 1-5)

By: Robert Kivell

1. LA Clippers- Blake Griffin

(Needs: PF, SG)

Griffin is by far the best player in the draft and would fit right in in L.A.  With a starting lineup of Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Al Thorton, Blake Griffin, and Marcus Camby, the Clips could make a big improvement next year and hover around the .500 mark.

2. Memphis Grizzlies- Hasheem Thabeet

(Needs: C, PG)

The Grizzlies could go two ways with this pick.  They can select Thabeet or Rubio.  It's all going to depend on how much patience they are willing to have with Mike Conley Jr.  If they are ready to label him as a bust, Rubio is the pick.  If not, Thabeet is their guy.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder- James Harden

(Needs: C, SG)

I see Russel Westbrook as a better point guard in the future than as a shooting guard.  If Thabeet falls to three, he is their guy, but once he is gone I see them picking Harden.   I would not be surprised however if they trade this pick with someone who is interested in moving up to take Rubio because he won't be left after the Kings pick.

4. Sacramento Kings- Ricky Rubio

(Needs: PG, SF)

The transition from Mike Bibby to Beno Udrich has not gone so well.  If Rubio is left here at #4 it would be a blessing for last year's worst team in the NBA.  If not, they could take Tyreke Evans or Brandon Jennings here.

5. Washington Wizards- Tyreke Evans

(Needs: PG, SG, C,)

The Wizards could really use a big man, but the quality of centers after Thabeet isn't good enough.  I like Evans to compliment Agent Zero in the Wiz's backcourt.

Picks 6-10 will be coming later.