This is something I like doing every year because it's fun to look back and see how you did after the year is over...
First, the three classifications:
- Boom- a rookie who comes in the NBA and makes a great, positive effect on his team (success)
- Bust- a rookie who comes in the NBA and 'sucks it up' (failure)
- Blah- a rookie who comes in the NBA and does okay, yet nothing special that will be remembered (average)
Now the prospects:
1. Michael Beasley, F, Kansas State
The future looks bright for this freshman. He plays well on both sides of the ball, but offensively, he shines brighter than any other of the prospects entering this draft. His scoring and rebounding are both unreal, and in the NBA I see him developing his skills and becoming... a star.
Classification- BOOM!!!
2. Derrick Rose, G, Memphis
I see this kid as being unstoppable. Another freshman, he knows how to score. He can shoot from anywhere, he's got great speed, he can just about do it all. An era of great point guards is coming, and Rose is next in line. (Let's hope he goes to the Miami Heat...)
Classification- BOOM!!!
3. Mario Chalmers, G, Kansas
The best possible way to end his college career, Chalmers is one of the best defensive guards on the draft board. His size is a concern, however, which could hurt his value and probably will. This guy is very clutch though, I have to give him that. There's a lot of questions with him at the end of the day, but I'll think he'll be...
Classification- Blah...
4. Brandon Rush, G/F, Kansas
This guy is very well balanced. He is not an above average shooter, defender, rebounder, passer, or leader. But the fact that he is average in all of these categories makes him as a player way above average. His stats will never be impressive. James Worthy-like stats are what I'm expecting. Don't let the stat sheet fool you. This guy is good, and has the tools to be great.
Classification- BOOM!!!
5. D.J. Augustin, G, Texas
Offensively, this guy is amazing. He can score like mad when he's on a roll. Defensively, he's okay in my opinion. However, I don't see him being successful in the NBA. To me, he seems like a J.J. Redick sort of guy. Amazing in college, but not so in the NBA. He doesn't seem like he will adapt well to the NBA 'environment'. I may be wrong, but we'll see.
Classification- BUST
More to come... soon.