Corey Maggette

Odds & Ends: Camby, Maggette, Irving, Future Draft Prospects

Amidst the clash between the worlds of Lin-sanity and the one who Shaq recently labeled the "Italian Pete Maravich" (Rubio is Spanish), here are a few notes from the rest of the basketball universe on an action-packed Saturday night in the NBA.  
  • Trail Blazers center Marcus Camby suffered a right ankle injury during tonight's game against the Mavericks, as reported by Ben Golliver on BlazersEdge.com.  
  • Corey Maggette returned to the Bobcats' starting lineup tonight, just one day after returning to action against the Bulls. He replaces Tyrus Thomas, who had been struggling to find a niche in Paul Silas' rotation after an 18 game stint as a starter. 
  • Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving, who has been out indefinitely due to a concussion, began the process of reinstatement by riding an exercise bike today (according to Jason Lloyd of Ohio.com). While Tom Reed of The Plain Dealer reports that there are several steps to take before Irving can be cleared to play, there is hope that the rookie can return to action soon barring any setbacks. 
  • Less than a month away from March Madness, there is a buzz surrounding a few heralded high school seniors who have yet to make a decision regarding which college program they will join next year. Adam Zagoria of SheridanHoops.com takes a closer look at a few players who could make waves in the NCAA next year and possibly headline the 2013 NBA draft. 

Bonnell On Bobcats, Top Draft Prospects

The Charlotte Bobcats have the league's worst record (3-18) and are headed to L.A. on Tuesday to face the Lakers. The consolation is the team is likely headed for a high draft pick in June. Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer broke down some of the probable top picks and how they would fit in with the Bobcats. Some highlights:

  • Kentucky's Anthony Davis, a Marcus Camby type, could help fix Charlotte's porous interior defense.
  • Andre Drummond of Connecticut has raw athleticism and the body of a center, a position the Bobcats need to improve as much as any other, Bonnell says.
  • Catch-and-shoot small forward Harrison Barnes could provide an heir apparent to Corey Maggette, and the fact he comes from North Carolina is a plus.
  • Ohio State's Jared Sullinger is a big man with range and deft passing skills, but the power forward position is already too crowded in Charlotte.