What? You were expecting in-depth, detailed analysis of the offensive line? Now?
No, just some more draft rankings and mock first round projections. This time from Sportsline.
In ranking the power forwards, Chris Taft is actually ranked 2nd behind Charlie Villanueva. I’m still puzzling over that one. Two players who lack much in the way of heart and drive. Just talent and “upside.” Despite that, in none of their draft projections does Villanueva go ahead of Taft.
In the ranking of point guards, Carl Krauser gets the most love in any of the rankings. He comes in at #10 overall. “Strong will and tenacious commitment to defense will land him on an NBA roster some day.” Still sounds like they don’t put him much better than late 2nd round at best.
There are 3 mock 1st rounds as picked by 3 of their writers. Taft goes anywhere from 9 to 15 at this point (the mock drafts are updated periodically, so it may change later). Two of the writers — Tony Meija and Greg Doyel — mention how Taft has fallen out of favor with the Knicks at #8 because of his work ethic.
Matt Lawrence puts Taft at #15 to the NJ Nets:
All season long, the Nets severely lacked a consistent big man. Taft is a bit raw offensively but is a beast on the glass and the defensive side of the ball. He could develop into a Udonis Haslem-type player.
Doyel has Taft at #10 for the LA Lakers:
Finally, someone will take a chance on Taft. Chris, meet Kobe Bryant. He’s better than you are right now. He’s better than you’ll ever be. So do what he says.
Meija has Taft picked #9 by the Golden State Warriors:
The Warriors’ perimeter puzzle is in great shape, so look for them to go big and hope Taft’s great upside eventually shines through.
I don’t mean to be so down on Taft. He was great for Pitt as a freshman. His sophomore year was more of a disappointment because of expectations. He never caused problems and did nothing to embarrass the school or program. He was right to leave for the NBA. The money is too good not to go, and he didn’t seem to have too much higher to get in the draft.
It’s just, I don’t see him having the determination to succeed in the NBA. He doesn’t seem to have the drive and determination to be a better player. He says the right things, but never shows it. If physical ability and size was enough players like Bimbo Coles and Michael Olowokandi would not be punchlines.
