June 14, 2006

With the NBA draft on the horizon, it is time to look ahead to the lottery. This is based on different conversations I have had with different scouts and player personnel people, as well as different reports and evaluations.

This is subject to change as we get closer to the draft.

Here is my lottery list:

1) Toronto takes Andrea Bargnani, Benetton (Italy)
Dreaming of being the next Dirk Nowitzki.

2) Chicago takes LaMarcus Aldridge, Texas
Has size, agility and a world of potential. I love his touch on the jump shot.

3) Charlotte takes Adam Morrison, Gonzaga
A tough player who is versatile. Ready to score immediately and has a variety of ways to put points on the board.

4) Portland takes Brandon Roy, Washington
Nate McMillan is familiar with this multi-dimensional talent. The Blazers will be excited to add him. The big combo guard will become a star at the next level.

5) Atlanta takes Tyrus Thomas, LSU
He is physically gifted and has terrific instincts as a Windex man sweeping the glass.

6) Minnesota takes Rudy Gay, Connecticut
An athletic transition player with terrific upside. His long-term future is very bright.

7) Boston takes J.J. Redick, Duke
The Celtics will hit a grand slam and get instant offensive productivity. Say what you want about athleticism, quickness, the bottom line is he can flat out shoot the rock and will be valuable right away.

8) Houston takes Marcus Williams, Connecticut
Best pure point guard available; he has great court vision. He should be taken in top 10.

9) Golden State takes Shelden Williams, Duke
A shot blocker and defensive dynamo, he can help instantly for Golden State's frontcourt.

10) Seattle takes Randy Foye, Villanova
Love his ability to shoot the basketball; he will be an immediate contributor on perimeter. Foye is a multi-talented winner.

11) Orlando takes Ronnie Brewer, Arkansas
Comes from great stock as his dad was a star. Tough defensively but must improve his shooting.

12) NO/OK takes Rodney Carney, Memphis
One of premier athletes in this draft, he is made for the NBA transition game. Carney can also hit the trifecta.

13) Philadelphia takes Patrick O'Bryant, Bradley
You can't teach size. He came on strong in the NCAA tournament and has terrific upside.

14) Utah takes Cedric Simmons, N.C. State
Simmons decided to leave NC State early, partially because Herb Sendek went to Arizona State. Simmons can help the Jazz up front.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in 1979. Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.