Re-Drafting the 2009 NBA Draft Using Advanced Analytics
5 Risers
In contrast, who flew under the radar among NBA teams?
| Player | Actual Pick | Re-Draft Pick | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danny Green | 46 | 4 | 42 |
| Patty Mills | 55 | 16 | 39 |
| Patrick Beverley | 42 | 13 | 29 |
| Jodie Meeks | 41 | 18 | 23 |
| Marcus Thornton | 43 | 20 | 23 |
On the positive side, there are some good stories among the draft's risers -- no one better than the aforementioned Green. Even though he's simply an elite role player, Green's production and efficiency would justify a top-five pick. He's been a valuable player for the Spurs in playoffs, as well, with 5.6 win shares in 79 career playoff games already.
Green nor Patty Mills were drafted by the Spurs in this draft. What the Spurs did do is acquire them both and turn them into very valuable NBA contributors. Mills, like Green, has had many appearances in playoff games as Tony Parker's primary backup. He's averaged 7.8 points in 16.5 minutes per game, connecting on a hair under 40% from the three-point arc.
On draft night, Patrick Beverley was traded from the Lakers to the Rockets for cash and a later pick. Since then, he's played with a chip on his shoulder and has proven to be one of the more pesky defenders in the NBA, totaling 6.4 defensive win shares in basically four seasons.
Unlike the other four players, Marcus Thornton has never been a part of a good NBA team. In a nutshell, he's been a very good scorer of the basketball with averages of 11.9 points and 1.3 three-balls per game across his career. He's still in the league and is currently looking to make a mark with the Washington Wizards.
