By Fanspeak Contributing Writer Geoff Nelowet:

This past week, major recruiting infractions were found within two premier sports programs on opposite coasts: The University of Connecticut basketball program and the University of Southern California basketball and football programs. With both schools, there are numerous allegations filed against them by the NCAA – all of which deal with breaking the rules in recruiting through making improper contact with players or by giving gifts or monetary benefits.

For USC, this is nothing new. The Trojans have a substantial line of recruiting infractions, and they already vacated the entirety of the 2007-08 basketball season after it was released that former basketball player OJ Mayo was given numerous gifts – and $1,000 cash from former head coach Tim Floyd. USC is now facing charges against the recruiting of former USC superstar Reggie Bush, and the Trojans may face vacating wins within the 2003-05 seasons, which includes a national championship.

The University of Connecticut scandal comes as a slightly bigger surprise only because they do not have a storied tradition of NCAA rules violations. According to ESPN, “Members of the men’s basketball staff exchanged at least 160 impermissible telephone calls and at least 191 impermissible text messages with recruits.” If those numbers are correct, the Connecticut staff clearly has no regard for NCAA rules. We are not talking about one or two mistakes – we are talking about continual disregard for NCAA policy. This, of course, is not to say that the U-Conn men’s basketball program is any worse than any other major Division I program – because they’re simply the ones that got caught.

It is safe to say that a vast number of Division I athletic programs break NCAA rules. I would not be surprised if substantially more do than don’t. It seems that the NCAA is not taking an active role in regulating the recruiting processes, and they should share a large part of the blame. Of course it is not feasible for the NCAA to monitor every phone call or text message, but they could at least work with the NFL and NBA so that players are required to stay in school for four years so that, at the very least, Joe McKnight might not be driving around in an SUV that was gifted to his girlfriend by a local businessman for a couple more years.

It seems that if athletes were required to stay in school for four years, it would put an inherent emphasis on collegiate sports as short career – not a stopgap between the pros. College sports is quickly becoming the minor leagues for the NFL and the NBA. Referring to a Division I athlete as a “student-athlete” is for the most part, laughable. If Division I athletes were forced to commit to college for four years – or at least be banned from the pros until they are four years removed from high school – than maybe the mindset would change, and maybe college athletes would be less of a commodity and more closely associated with the “student-athlete” moniker. Maybe Brandon Jennings would find Europe less enticing if he knew he would have to stay overseas for four years instead of one.

In any regard, these recruiting infractions need to be prevented because the integrity of college sports is rapidly collapsing. Not to mention, the NCAA basketball talent pool has been severely depleted over the last two decades by the lucrative NBA contract. It is in everyone’s best interest to minimize these recruiting infractions and a good firs step would be to force athletes to wait four years before going pro.

By Fanspeak Contributing Writer Geoff Nelowet:

The LA Lakers punched their ticket to the NBA finals last night after taking out the Phoenix Suns in six games. They will face the red-hot Boston Celtics in what will be a rematch of the 2008 finals – a series in which the Boston Celtics won with a 39-point demolition of the Lakers in game six to win the title.

The biggest question heading into the finals this year may be: will 2010 be any different from 2008? For the most part, both rosters are basically the same. The Lakers added Ron Artest, and the Celtics have Rasheed Wallace coming off the bench. Aside from Artest’s game winner in game five, neither have been the contributors they expected. The Lakers also have Andrew Bynum – who was injured during the 2008 finals and was sorely missed.

Bynum, in fact, could be what makes 2010 a different series for the Lakers. The Lakers struggled to equal Boston’s physical defense and inside play with Paul Gasol, a very finesse big man, as the only true starting option down low. Bynum will be the quintessential “X factor” this year – just as he was against the Orlando Magic guarding Dwight Howard in the 2009 finals.

For the Celtics, they need to keep doing what they’ve done throughout the playoffs: play tough defense and let Rajon Rondo run the show. The Celtics’ playoff run has been nothing short of astounding thus far, and they can attribute their playoff success to those two factors. When the playoffs started, many people expected the aging Celtics to lose in the first round – to whomever they faced. It turned out that they were going up against the Miami Heat who, led by Dwyane Wade, owned the best record in the NBA after the all-star break at 21-8. The Celtics subsequently obliterated the Heat in five uncompetitive games. The Celtics followed that up by dismantling the Cleveland Cavaliers in six games (which will likely oust LeBron James from Cleveland). If that wasn’t impressive enough, the Celtics then put up a 3-0 lead on the previously undefeated Orlando Magic (8-0 in the playoffs) before the series in six games. In short, the Celtics had easily the most difficult road the NBA finals, and they made it look quite easy to get there.

If this were the regular season, it would be laughable to think that the Boston Celtics could make it to the NBA finals – or beat the LA Lakers in a seven game series. Times have changes, and the Celtics look like NBA Champions. The Celtics will defeat the Lakers in seven games.

1. John Wall- Despite being just a freshman Wall is a polished point guard, and one that should be able to start from the season’s opening tip. He is long and athletic, and shows all the tools to be a lockdown defender in the NBA. Wall is exceptionally quick and can create his own shot as well as work to get open without the ball. His ball handling is good at best and his court vision and anticipation need work for the NBA. Wall also lacks a great 3-point shot, but with a little time should develop into a better perimeter threat.

2. Avery Bradley- Bradley is considered by most as more of a combo guard, and does lack true point guard skills, but should be a very good starter in the right system. He is exceptionally quick and one of the best defenders in this draft class. Bradley hasn’t always been the best passer or ball handler, but he does an adequate enough job. Bradley’s offensive game is still emerging, but the sky is the limit for him. He is explosive to the basket and will be an offensive weapon at the next level. Bradley may be overlooked as too much of a tweener, but I think he will end up being a top notch pro.

3. Eric Bledsoe- Bledsoe did a great job at Kentucky backing up/playing next to John Wall. Their skills complimented one another and for teams looking for a defensive/pass first point guard Bledsoe is their man. He was no better than the 4th scoring option in college, but still averaged over 11 points a game. He still needs to work on having a more consistent outside shot, as well as creating his own opportunities, but should be a solid 3rd scoring option in the NBA. While Bledsoe is a pass first point guard, he will at times play out of control and commit too many stupid turnovers. That should improve with time, but it may keep him from starting much in year one.

4. Willie Warren- Warren is an offensive first point guard, who has yet to become a complete player. While some scouts soured on him this year, he did a great job managing this team without Blake Griffin in the lineup. Warren gets labeled as a combo guard, but he does a good job of running the offense. He never had much in the way to work with outside of Griffin, and he seemed to press to much this year. One thing that shows how important he was to the team is the fact that they only won 2 games without him in the lineup. Warren has 3-point skills and is a solid passer. He still needs to become a well rounded player and learn to defend the position, but he has the tools to do so.

5. Armon Johnson- Johnson is a point guard, but he really lacks point guard skills. He doesn’t have a consistent jump shot and lacks 3-point range completely. He isn’t a great floor general, and not much of a passer. He does use his explosiveness and quickness to get by defenders and get to the rim. He does need to learn when to pass out of that situation when the defense collapses around him. While most of the traditional tools aren’t there, Johnson has all the physical tools and athleticism to play the position and become a top notch defender. I doubt he will ever be more than backup PG and spark plug off the bench, but he could have a solid NBA career.

1. Washington Nationals: C Bryce Harper- At this point this is a no brainer pick. Harper has established himself as the best hitter in this draft class and has All-Star potential.

2. Pittsburgh Pirates: SS Manny Machado- The Pirates have shown a willingness to shell out a big bonus and go after a more premium level of talent these last couple of seasons. Machado could be a special player down the road and seems like a good pick for Pittsburgh. As long as his bonus demands don’t get outrageous, he seems like a good pick.

3. Baltimore Orioles: LHP Drew Pomeranz- The O’s have been linked to a number of players including some of the top H.S. arms. Normally I’d tend to agree with that track, but Baltimore is without a 2nd round pick making this pick that more crucial for the success of their draft. I think they take a college player from a position that isn’t deep in this draft. I would say 3B Zach Cox is also an option here.

4. Kansas City Royals: C Yasmani Grandal- The Royals also seem likely to bypass on some of the premium H.S. talent to get a more sure thing with their top pick. Grandal is a very good catching prospect who is worthy of a top 5 pick. Given the scarcity of the position, and the fact that Kansas City’s Will Myers (top catching prospect) will likely move off the position Grandal makes sense here.

5. Cleveland Indians: LHP Chris Sale- The Indians will be quite happy to get one of the top two lefties in this class with the 5th pick. Sale has moved up the draft boards this year with a dominate season, and looks like a safe bet going forward.

6. Arizona Diamondbacks: RHP Deck McGuire- The D-backs get one of the most major league ready pitchers with this pick in McGuire. He isn’t a 1 or a 2 likely at the next level, but should reach the majors quickly.

7. New York Mets: RHP James Tallion- This is the Mets dream scenario, as he is the best high school pitcher in the draft and considered by many to be a top 3 talent. He could go to the O’s or Royals, but they could go the safer route with a college player. He has the potential to develop into a frontline starter.

8. Houston Astros: OF Jose Sale- Houston could go the safe route and take a college player like Michael Choice, but Sale seems like a good pick for them. He has great power and could end up in the middle of a major league lineup 4 or 5 years from now.

9. San Diego Padres: OF Michael Choice- Choice is the top college outfielder in this class and would be a top 5 pick if he definitely had the speed to stay in center. Even if the does have to move to the corner, he should be above average defensively and hit for more than enough power.

10. Oakland Athletics: 3B Zach Cox- Cox is another player who could go anywhere in the top 10, but is probably the best hitting infielder in this class.  I think he will slide a bit since his defense is still a work in progress, but will be well worth the investment.

11. Toronto Blue Jays: RHP Karsten Whitson- Whitson has established himself as the 2nd best H.S. pitching prospect in this class and would be a great pick here for the Jays.

12. Cincinnati Reds: SS Christan Colon- The Reds have had pretty good success grabbing college players these past few years, given the up-and-coming team they have I think they stay that route. Colon will need to work on his hitting some, but he is a major league SS, which makes him a steal here for the Reds.

13. Chicago White Sox: RHP Alex Wimmers- Wimmers will sign quickly for the White Sox and while he doesn’t have the highest ceiling he is a very sure bet for reaching it. He could be in the majors by mid-2011, and emerge as a solid number 3.

14. Milwaukee Brewers: SS Nick Castellanos-One of the best prep hitters in this class if teams think his demands aren’t too high than he should be a top 15 pick.

15. Texas Rangers: RHP Asher Wojciechowski- The Rangers need to draft someone who won’t hold out here since this pick isn’t protected. Wojciechowski is a top 20 talent so it wouldn’t be too much of a reach here. He’s another solid mid-rotation pitcher who should move quickly.

16. Chicago Cubs: RHP Brandon Workman- Workman has big time upside and could go earlier if someone falls in love with him. He is a good fit for a pitching starved Cubs system.

17. Tampa Bay Rays: OF Gary Brown- The Rays love toolsy, speedy outfielders and Brown fits that bill to the T. He has gotten better every year and could end up being a steal here.

18. Los Angeles Angels: RHP Dylan Covey- The Angels love drafting guys from their back yard, and high upside H.S. prospects. Covey fits the bill on both counts and seems like their pick.

19. Houston Astros: 2B Delino DeShields Jr.- The Astros are looking to add high upside players to their organization as they begin their long rebuilding process. The fact that DeShields is a MLB legacy doesn’t hurt either.

20. Boston Red Sox: RHP A.J. Cole- The Red Sox have the resources to go in any direction, but taking a young prospect with the arm and potential of Cole seems to make the most sense here.

21. Minnesota Twins: OF Bryce Brentz- The Twins aren’t likely to explode their budget for their top pick. I think similar to last year they will try and grab a top 10 talent who fell due to injury or under-performance.

22. Texas Rangers: 3B Kaleb Cowart- One of the better prep hitters in this class, Cowart has the potential to be a middle of the order hitter if he keeps adding strength. As a bonus he his a 1st round talent as a pitcher and could interest some teams in that role.

23. Florida Marlins: RHP Barrett Loux- Marlins are going to take someone who is signable from college, and Loux seems like their man.

24. San Francisco Giants: 2B Kolbrin Vitek- The Giants could get the best 2nd basemen by far in this draft with this pick. He doesn’t have Chase Utley upside, but he should be in the majors inside 2 years and a solid starter.

25. St. Louis Cardinals: LHP James Paxton- I think the Cards will keep stockpiling pitching with this pick. Paxton is the next best lefty and a sure bet to be a good starter at the next level.

26. Colorado Rockies: RHP Aaron Sanchez- Another high upside prep arm, that the Rockies seem to like.

27. Philadelphia Phillies: OF Brett Eibner- The Phillies system is gutted right now and they could use some players who are closer to the majors.

28. Los Angeles Dodgers: RHP Stetson Allie- The Dodgers love drafting prep pitchers in the first round, seems like a great fit here.

29. Los Angeles Angels: RHP Matt Harvey- The Angels could get a steal here if Harvey develops like everyone thought he would.

30. Los Angeles Angels: SS Yordy Cabrera- With a number of picks, I think the Angels can afford to draft a high upside SS like Cabrera.

31. Tampa Bay Rays: RHP Anthony Ranaudo- This pick isn’t protected so the Rays need to grab someone who will sign, Ranaudo will be happy to see his name finally off the board after an injury derailed this year for him.

32. New York Yankees: RHP Tyrell Jenkins- The Yankees are likely to grab a prep player with this pick and Jenkins could be that player. He’s a player with a lot of upside that the Yankees won’t mind paying for.

The Magic have looked like a different team with their backs against the wall these past two games. They came out playing on all cylinders last night and are now just one game away from tying this series. Boston on the other hand is reeling after winning the first 3 games of the series with relative ease. Not only did the Celtics lose the game last night and potentially the momentum, but their front court is potentially in shambles.

The Magic took an early lead in the game and never looked back. Orlando held an 8 point lead at halftime, and ended up winning the game by 21 points. The Magic didn’t do anything too creative, getting a combined 45 points from stars Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson. Orlando also got a strong performance from their bench to lead the charge over the Celtics stars. Howard also did what he does best and dominated the paint the entire game. He blocked one more shot (5) than the entire Celtics team. He also lead both teams in rebounds (10) helping the Magic out rebound Boston 43-26.

Howard had an advantage in the game and it will likely be one that could haunt Boston this entire series. The Celtics suffered some major losses to their front court, as three of their big men went down with injury/were ejected. Rasheed Wallace, who led the Celtics in points, left the game early do to back spasms. While he should return for Game 6, he might not be 100%. Without Wallace, the Celtics lose one of their best offensive big men, and one of their better 3-point shooters. Glen Davis suffered a minor concussion from an inadvertent elbow, and had to leave the game early. While it is listed as a minor concussion, there is really no such thing when it comes to a head injury like that. While Davis could be back for Game 6 there are no guarantees, and I’d be really concerned with Davis playing physical and getting hit in the head again. While I think there is little chance of Wallace or Davis being 100% for Game 6, they will at least have a chance to be in the game unlike center Kendrick Perkins.

Perkins, who had done a decent job of holding Howard in check this series, and was a vital (though unheralded) part of Boston’s success, was ejected in the 2nd quarter after receiving his 2nd technical foul of the game. That 2nd foul meant an automatic ejection from Game 5, but it was also his 7th technical of the postseason. Which means he will be suspended for the next game. While there is a chance the NBA ‘knocks down’ the foul penalty, I think it is likely to be upheld. Which means that Boston will be without their starting center for the last game they have at home in this series.

Wallace is the primary backup and Davis gets solid minutes inside as well. With both of them on the mend, and Perkins gone for Game 6, Boston is in a bad position. Perkins has been by far Boston’s best option to counter Dwight Howard. He doesn’t help much on the offensive end, but gets his rebounds and keeps Howard’s impact minimal. Without Perkins, the Celtics have had trouble defending Howard, and if he can have a big game again this series could be even, and heading back to Orlando. As long as the Magic don’t get ahead of themselves, they are in a great position to come back from a 3-0 series deficit and return to the NBA Finals.

15. Milwaukee Bucks: F/G Gordon Hayward- Hayward could easily go higher than this, but if he lasts to the Bucks pick, he will be in Milwaukee next season. Hayward can play either the 2 or 3, and should be a significant contributor for the Bucks. He has a high basketball I.Q. and should become a serious starter in this league for years to come.

16. Minnesota Timberwolves: SG James Anderson- Anderson is a good fit for the T-Wolves as he gives them great depth at shooting guard. Anderson doesn’t always get credit for being a top quality guard, but I think he will transition well to the NBA. He is a great outside shooter and will make Minnesota a more balanced team.

17. Chicago Bulls: C Daniel Orton- Chicago doesn’t have a major need at center, but Orton has major upside and would be a nice fit for the Bulls. Orton brings plenty of length and ability to the Bulls frontline, and should develop into a starting caliber center.

18. Miami Heat: PG Eric Bledsoe- The Heat have been looking for a point guard, and Bledsoe is a nice fit for them. He is still raw and will need to come along slowly, but the upside is there.

19. Boston Celtics: G/F Paul George- Boston needs to get younger and George could be the perfect fit for them. He is a bit raw, but possesses the talent and athleticism to succeed in the NBA. He also gives them depth on the wing where they are pretty thin.

20. San Antonio Spurs: F Luke Babbitt- Babbitt gives the Spurs some depth behind Richard Jefferson who had an up and down year last season. The Spurs could use a center, but Babbitt can play some power forward as well, allowing Duncan to stay inside.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder: F/C Larry Sanders- Sanders gives the Thunder length inside, and someone who can help out on defense right away. Sanders is still working on his offensive game and needs to add more bulk, but would be an excellent pick up for the Thunder.

22. Portland Trail Blazers: SF Damion James- James would be excellent value for the Trail Blazers here. While he might not have the elite upside of some players, he should find a good role in the NBA. His offensive game is behind his defensive game, but the Trail Blazers can already score plenty of points.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves: C Solomon Alabi- While it is likely the T-Wolves use their last pick on an international player to stash overseas, they shouldn’t let Alabi get past them. Minnesota still needs a true center to allow Jefferson a good amount of minutes at the 4. Alabi will allow the Timberwolves to rotate Love and Jefferson more, and give them legit size inside. Overall he is a major project, but if he pans out, this draft class could turn the T-wolves into contenders.

24. Atlanta Hawks: SG Terrico White- Joe Johnson could be heading for another team, and while Jamal Crawford could slide into the starting role the Hawks will need some depth there. White has a good bit of upside, and while I’m not sure if he will ever develop into a starter, he should be a solid player off the bench for Atlanta.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: G Willie Warren- Warren isn’t the classic point guard the Grizzlies need, but he will help out at the position. The Grizzlies are a young team with a ton of potential so needs aren’t as great, but one area they lack is at point guard.

26. Oklahoma City Thunder: PF Patrick Patterson- Patterson was a good college player, but it is hard to know if he will make it in the NBA. He has the requisite size and solid basketball I.Q., but he isn’t the most athletic 4 in country. If he had a better outside shot then he might make more sense, since he could be a threat from the perimeter, but I don’t see him going in the top 20 picks. He is good value here for the Thunder since they already have some depth at power forward. Patterson can work on his game while only needing about 10 minutes a game.

27. New Jersey Nets: SF Quincy Pondexter- Pondexter has been rising up draft boards this season, and with pretty good reason. He is a scorer through and through and consistently showed that he could beat defenders to the basket. He isn’t much of an outside shooter, but should be a nice player for the Nets who are thin at SF.

28. Memphis Grizzlies: SG Jordan Crawford- Again Memphis could look for another international player, one that would stay overseas, but I think Memphis will take someone who can play right away. The Grizzlies are a good team, and are developing a deep bench. That kind of talent will give them a cheap roster and plenty of trade chips. Crawford made a name for himself during Xavier’s tournament run as a premium scorer. He has very impressive range and athleticism, and should be a valuable option off the bench for the Grizzlies. He can help out a little at point guard as well, making him a great option for the Grizzlies.

29. Orlando Magic: SF Devin Eubanks- The Magic don’t have a lot of needs but adding an athletic, long wing player would be a good fit. Eubanks has a ton of upside and should be a great player off the bench for the Magic.

30. Washington Wizards: PF Craig Brackins- Brackins could go easily 10 picks earlier, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him fall this far. A lot of people knock him for being a few years older (22), but he has defined himself into a quality player. He has a good basketball I.Q. and should find success in the NBA. The Wizards are razor thin in their front court, and while they will look to address the position in free agency there are no guarantees. Adding a big man has to be their priority here.

1. Washington Wizards: PG John Wall- Wall while only a freshman, has the talent to be the next elite point guard in the NBA. His upside reminds me of either a Rajon Rondo or a Derrick Rose, and Washington will be happy if he turns into either one. As tempting as Cousins or Turner could be, Wall will be the pick here. He will allow Arenas to play off the ball more and fill two needs, and give Washington an impressive backcourt.

2. Philadelphia 76ers: G/F Evan Turner- You can make a strong case for DeMarcus Cousins here since the 76ers need some help with their front court, but I doubt they let Turner get by them. He is the safest player in this draft and they need to add some impact. While his game is similar to Andre Iguodala, Turner can handle the 3 fine and will give Philly another scorer.

3. New Jersey Nets: F/C DeMarcus Cousins- The Nets may have lost out on Wall and the Lottery, but could still end up with the best player in this draft. Cousins has immense talent, he just needs to learn how to harness it. He would form a dominate frontcourt with Brook Lopez, whose presence would allow him to mainly play the 4. Cousins could handle either position, but there aren’t many power forwards in the league that play with that combination of size, strength, and range. Cousins has some risk involved, but is well worth the pick for New Jersey.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves: SF Wesley Johnson- The T-wolves could add another big man, but they really need someone who can play center and I don’t see them reaching for Aldrich or Greg Monroe. Johnson gives Minnesota a very consistent wing player who should compliment their talent at 1 and 4 nicely.

5. Sacramento Kings: C/F Greg Monroe- I think you will hear a lot of talk of Favors here, but he is so raw of a player I don’t think it makes sense. Also the Kings need someone who can play some center and Favors I think would be overmatched. Monroe is a good fit here because he can rotate with Landry, Thompson and Hawes and would allow Cassipi to play full time at SF. This seems high for Monroe, but given his high basketball I.Q. and passing ability I think he is well worth a top 5 pick.

6. Golden State Warriors: PF Derrick Favors- I personally am not high on Favors, and think he is redundant on the Warriors since I question his ability to play inside, but he screams of a Golden State player. He is extremely athletic and has been hyped up all season. While he could one day be an elite NBA player, I think he is a few years off, and will really need to refine his game.

7. Detroit Pistons: C Cole Aldrich- Aldrich is a bit of a reach here since I think he is more of a late lottery talent, but fills a big need for the Pistons. Detroit has their share of shooting guards, small and power forwards, what they don’t have is a quality center. Aldrich should develop into a solid starter, and does have some offensive upside, but he is far from a top level 5.

8. Los Angeles Clippers: SF Al-Farouq Aminu- Aminu could easily go higher, but if he falls to the Clippers he will definitely be their pick. The Clippers biggest weakness is lack of a true SF, and while they could resign Travis Outlaw and will kick the tires on LeBron James and Rudy Gay, Aminu would be a great pick for them here. He is still a bit raw, but should still offer productive minutes as a rookie.

9. Utah Jazz: PF/C Ekpe Udoh- Udoh would be the perfect choice for the Jazz with this pick. He offers insurance in case Boozer leaves town, and also can give Utah some minutes at center allowing Milsap a breather. He is a defensive first big man, but has the offensive potential to become an all-star caliber of player.

10. Indiana Pacers: PG/SG Avery Bradley- Bradley doesn’t get as much hype as many of the other freshman, but in reality could end up being one of the top 3 players from this class. He isn’t a true point guard and lacks the range of a shooting guard, but he is a fantastic defender and still has a very good offensive game. The Pacers desperately need help in their back court, particularly at point guard, making Bradley a nice fit.

11. New Orleans Hornets: PF Ed Davis- Scouts have been salivating over Davis for two years now, and I don’t see the Hornets letting him slip any further. He is an athletic big man, who at times looks dominate. His major problems are his lack of consistency, especially on the offensive end and that he is coming off a major injury. That being said he fills a need for New Orleans, and can learn by coming off the bench, making this a good fit for both sides.

12. Memphis Grizzlies: PF/C Donatas Motiejunas- With 3 first round picks, and a young talents squad to begin with the Grizzlies can risk pulling the trigger on an international talent like Motiejunas. Even if he does stay in Europe another year, it wouldn’t be the worst thing for Memphis. Motiejunas has incredible upside and while his primary position is PF he can play some center as well, if he can add some bulk. If he does come over this year, he won’t be forced into a starting role allowing him to get a solid 15+ minutes to learn the NBA game.

13. Toronto Raptors: C/F Hassan Whiteside- Whiteside is a boom or bust player. He has incredible athleticism and talent, but doesn’t show it every game. He is still raw in a number of areas, but would be a nice fit in Toronto. He can fill in for Bosh who is almost guaranteed to leave, and by playing next to Bargnani he would have some help in the middle.

14. Houston Rockets: SG Xavier Henry- Henry is another of the one and done players, but is one that I really like. He doesn’t possess elite athleticism or defensive ability which will likely keep him out of the top 10 picks, but has plenty of upside. He is an excellent shooter and should be a sniper off the bench for the deep Rockets team. Houston needs a center, but there really isn’t one worth taking at this spot, making Henry their top choice.

Check back later for the rest of the 1st round!

By Fanspeak Contributing Writer Geoff Nelowet:

Phoenix Suns win 118-109 at home to close within a game of the LA Lakers:

The Phoenix Suns made this series interesting by knocking of the Lakers last night. Amare Stoudemire led the Suns with 42 points, while Steve Nash continued his brilliant play with 17 points and 15 assists. Kobe Bryant played his best game of the playoffs with 36 points 11 assists and 9 rebounds in a losing effort.

It looks like Phoenix has to play its absolute best to take down the Lakers. Stoudemire was lights out tonight, and it was barely enough for the Suns to earn a win. At the same time, though, Kobe was also playing a huge game. I would be surprised to see the Suns win again at home – the Lakers simply outmatch the Suns, and it shows even when the Lakers lose. It is always difficult to tell with Suns, though, as they are a streaky team.

Game four comes down to whether the Suns can execute their offense or not – and if they can start knocking down their three’s. That seems like a bright spot for the Suns – they won without shooting a great percentage from three-point land (25%). The Lakers are a bit more predictable: they will play tough defense and Kobe and Pau Gasol will have strong games. Ultimately it comes down to whether the Suns can work within their own game plan or they to play into the Lakers’ style.

It would be great to see the Suns find a way to win this series for an unthinkable Phoenix-Boston match-up in the finals. That would have to be the most improbable NBA Finals series in years.

Boston Celtics are up 3-0 on the reeling Orlando Magic:

This has been an absolute shock of a series. For starters, it is unbelievable that the Celtics made it this far. They looked like a team ready to keel over before the playoffs, and here they are – up 3-0 on the Magic after dominating the Cleveland Cavaliers in the prior series.

You can attribute Boston’s post-season success to two causes: great team defense and Rajon Rondo.

Boston has now held their opponents under 100 point for the last six playoff games, and they’ve held their opponents under 100 point in 11 of 14 games. Those three games in which their opponent scored 100-plus points resulted in the Celtics’ only three losses of the post season. The 2010 Boston Celtics resoundingly support the fact that team defense trumps superstars, as the Celtics are on the verge of knocking off teams led by Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Dwight Howard.

Rajon Rondo has been unstoppable for the Celtics – just as he was last year in the playoffs. Rondo is averaging 17 points, nearly 11 assists and 6 rebounds a night in the playoffs, and he is quickly becoming one of the best point guards in the league. Whoever the Celtics face (assuming they defeat Orlando) in the NBA Finals will have their hands full.

By Fanspeak Contributing Writer Geoff Nelowet

1. Washington Wizards–John Wall

This looks like an obvious pick for the Wizards, but there lies a major issue with Gilbert Arenas on board. Arenas will have to be told upfront that he is no longer the center of the franchise, and he is obligated to play the position his coaches want him to play – and that position may be shooting guard. If Flip Saunders can somehow manage to get Wall and Arenas playing together harmoniously, the Wizards could have a bright future ahead.

2. Philadelphia 76ers–Evan Turner

Turner looks like the second best prospect in the draft. What remains to be seen is if Philadelphia feels the same way. Turner would bring size and versatility to the backcourt, but is he a franchise-changing player? He looks like a sure-fire prospect, but he does not have as high a ceiling as Wall or others.

3. New Jersey  Nets–Derrick Favors

Again, Favors is the best player available and he does not play center or point guard, which are positions occupied by Brook Lopez and Devin Harris. Wesley Johnson could also be a strong possibility in this slot.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves–Wesley Johnson

There is little chance the Timberwolves will select DeMarcus Cousins here considering that Al Jefferson and Kevin Love are already jockeying over the starting Center and Power Forward spots. Cousins would only complicate things as he would be yet another tweener-center/power forward added to the mix.

Johnson is a long and athletic small forward, and he also has a fairly polished game with a nice looking jumper. The Timberwolves are putting together a nice young nucleus with Jefferson, Love, Flynn, Johnson and Ricky Rubio’s rights.

5. Sacramento Kings DeMarcus Cousins

This is a no-brainer. Cousins and Tyreke Evans will officially become the core of the Kings’ franchise for the next five-plus years. Cousins is an athletic and powerful center/power forward and he has great size and length. His stock is greatly hurt because of his off-court issues, which makes Cousins a bit of a steal at number five.

6. Golden State Warriors Greg Monroe

I think it would be typical of Golden State to take Monroe, as he is an excellent offensive player. Monroe has demonstrating a natural passing ability that is a rarity amongst big men. He also has great range on his jump shot for a center, and he is a good rebounder. He may also pan out to be a solid defender. It looks like a win-win for Golden State as they will be able to take a player that entices them with his versatility on offense while also potentially shoring up some of the defensive issues they have had.

7. Detroit Pistons– Al-Farouq Aminu

This is the perfect pick for a franchise that is headed in no particular direction. Aminu is a great overall athlete with an unpolished game. He has an improved inside game and he is great in transition. He is also a good rebounder and defender. He does not have a great offensive skill set, but as a small forward, he is very versatile. His versatility would be a great addition to the Pistons because there is no telling what kind of player they will require him to be a few years down the line.

8. LA Clippers            Patrick Patterson

Patterson is a fairly polished forward, and he could be a good fit along side a healthy Blake Griffin. Patterson has a nice inside-outside game, and he has a solid NBA frame to work with at 6-9, 240.

9. Utah            Jazz Hassan Whiteside

Utah needs to get bigger and more physical. Utah simply cannot hang with the stronger teams in the West, so it may be wise to find a future solution to potentially losing Carlos Boozer and having a softer center in Mehmet Okur.

10. Indiana Pacers–Xavier Henry

Henry would fill a need for the Pacers, which is backcourt scoring, but I don’t see Henry as an elite athlete. Henry has a great jump shot though, so he will at least have a chance to stay in the NBA for a while.

11. New Orleans Hornets–Cole Aldrich

New Orleans has a lot of finesse on their team outside of Emeka Okefor. Aldrich could be a nice change of pace off the bench.

12. Memphis Grizzlies–Ed Davis

Davis has fallen down the draft ladder a bit. Weeks ago he was slated as a top-five pick. Davis is a good athlete, but he isn’t strong enough to play with NBA big men. He can improve on this, but it is still a question mark.

13. Toronto Raptors–Donatas Motiejunas

Toronto loves foreign players. It looks like a fit.

14. Houston Rockets–Avery Bradley

Houston could use more scoring to go along with Aaron Brooks. Bradley is a great shooter and scorer and could be the answer.

It has been a rough year for the Astros as they have fallen to the cellar of the N.L. Central and are tied for the 2nd worst record in baseball. Things are about to get worse for the Astros after the news came out that star pitcher Roy Oswalt wants to be traded.

Oswalt has been a tremendous homegrown talent for Houston over the years. And while his record stands at 2-6 the blame can’t be on Oswalt’s shoulders. His ERA sits at 2.66 and has a 1.07 WHIP to go along with 60 strikeouts in 61 innings pitched. Oswalt has once again been his dominate self, but the team around him has crumbled to the point of complete dysfunction. Oswalt has won 139 games for the Astros over the years, but will likely be making his last few starts wearing a Houston uniform.

Oswalt who already said he would be willing to waive his no trade clause, has now sent a message through his agent to Astros G.M. Ed Wade that he would like to be traded. Now if the Astros are smart they will honor that request quickly and quietly (don’t want it to get messy since he does have the no trade clause he can veto trades he doesn’t like), and not try to convince their ace to stay. Now I realize their will be some fan backlash, but this really is the best thing for Houston.

They are a team stocked with high priced veterans and have no chance of contending these next two years (the years in which the Astros have Oswalt under contract, for roughly $29 million), and should cash in on him while they can. The Astros farm system is the definition of being barren, so an Oswalt trade can help jump start (start) their rebuilding process (as well as moving a few other players). They can also use the money they are saving by trading away these big contracts to draft and sign a higher level of amateur talent, which was the blueprint that made them successful in the mid-late 90′s and carried over to this decade. Also the money they save this year and for the future can be invested into younger free agent talent next offseason. Players who will be with the team 4-5 years from now when their rebuilding process is complete.

The most important thing for the Astros is to run and not walk in making this deal. Now that is not to say agree to the first deal to come along, but Houston should be proactive and not wait around for teams to send them proposals. For one thing if they act now, they can sell the acquiring team on the fact that they will get an extra two months of Oswalt (which would amount to at least 10 starts) compared to if they wait until the trade deadline at the end of July. Teams might be willing to pay a higher price for those 10+ extra starts. Not to mention by putting Oswalt on the market now more teams might have an interest in him. Teams like the Cubs and Red Sox are struggling right now, but have high expectations to this season they are likely to try to jump back into contention with a big move. If you wait until the end of July they might be out of the race. Also some surprise teams like Texas and Washington could be in the mix right now, but might not be willing to pull the trigger later in the season. By waiting the Astros run the risk of other frontline pitchers hitting the trade market and being dealt to teams with the biggest need.

Not only does Houston need to act quickly but they need to make sure they don’t attach too high of demands to their star pitcher. Oswalt is a top of the line pitcher, but he isn’t a Cy Young type of guy. He has some injury history (though not too serious) and does have a no trade clause which means he will have somewhat of a say into where he goes. And while his contract isn’t breaking the bank, it is also more expensive than most, and the $16 million he will make next year puts him in the top 10 among pitchers. So Houston shouldn’t expect to get a prospect bonanza for their ace, and need to use what both the Padres and Blue Jays did as an example of what not to do.

Both San Diego and Toronto were in a similar position where their ace pitcher wanted out of their situation, but had some leverage with the no trade clause (and were also in their early 30′s like Oswalt). The Padres decided not to move Jake Peavy before the start of last season, because they wanted a bigger return. By waiting ended up losing all their leverage. One of the teams hot on Peavy’s trail was the Atlanta Braves, but they filled their pitching woes by signing a couple free agents and trading for Javier Vasquez, taking them completely off the market for Peavy. In addition to losing out on one of his primary suitors Peavy experienced some injury issues last year which further depleted his trade value. While they got a couple of solid prospects, they didn’t receive any difference makers in return for their ace.

The Blue Jays made a similar mistake later in the season when they set an exorbitant price tag on Roy Halladay and ended up not moving him until this offseason. By waiting Halladay’s value went down since he would have helped a team with two playoff runs last season, compared to just one as an impending free agent (he did sign an extension after he was traded). The Blue Jays placed too high of demands and were left with nothing last season. While they ended up getting a good return for their ace from the Phillies, I’m sure they could have pried more away last July. Philadelphia ended up trading 4 prospects to the Indians for Cliff Lee (who they sent in a trade to the Mariners to recoup some of the prospects from the Halladay deal). While they weren’t going to send all those prospects from both deals to the Blue Jays for Halladay, my guess is they would have sent at least two of the guys they dealt to the Indians Toronto’s way for that extra playoff run with Halladay. By holding out the Blue Jays got nothing to show for it, in fact they ended up spending an extra $6-8 million on Halladay for the rest of the season, a season where two weeks after the trade deadline the team couldn’t come up with the money to sign a number of their top draft picks. Had Toronto moved Halladay then, gotten the extra prospect or two and used that money to sign their draft picks, their rebuilding process with be much more advanced than it is today.

Houston needs to make an Oswalt (as well as maybe a Berkman) deal happen ASAP. Before any more leverage is lost on their part. The Astros need to get younger and Oswalt’s unhappiness is the first step in doing so. It might get worse before it gets better, but there will be a light at the end of the tunnel if the Astros are smart.