Seattle SuperSonics 2007 Draft Preview

06.20.2007

(Basketball News) - The second overall pick should get Seattle the most talented offensive player in the draft. Assuming Portland selects Ohio State’s Greg Oden with the first overall selection, Kevin Durant of Texas would be a great addition to the SuperSonics, who finished a disappointing 31-51 in 2006-07 and missed the playoffs for the second straight year.

The 6-10 Durant will fit right in with All-Star shooting guard Ray Allen, who averaged a team-best 26.4 points in 55 games for Seattle this past season. Durant can knock down a jumper from anywhere on the court and is very athletic. He is a future All-Star and will have an immediate impact.

Forward Rashard Lewis will most likely be playing for a new team in 2007-08. The 6-10 Lewis averaged 22.4 points and 6.6 rebounds in 60 games this past season, and is expected to leave through free agency. Seattle may be able to acquire a decent player and draft pick through a sign-and-trade deal.

Forwards Nick Collison, Chris Wilcox and point guard Luke Ridnour are three of Seattle’s stronger players. Collison led the club in rebounding (8.1 rpg) this past season, while Wilcox averaged 13.5 points and 7.7 boards and Ridnour collected 11.0 points and 5.2 assists. Earl Watson led the team in assists (5.7 apg).

The SuperSonics have a lot of bodies that are taking up space on their roster. They may look to deal Ridnour, which would allow Watson to have total control at the point.

Allen, who also averaged 4.5 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 2006-07, is still one of the best shooters in the league. The 6-5 guard will welcome Durant with open arms, but has to know they need more inside help if they hope to get back to the postseason.

Selecting Durant is a step in the right direction. The Texas product will put up big numbers right away and will get the fans excited. Seattle still needs a lot more help and will try and build off of the selection of the multi- talented Durant.

Key Player(s): Ray Allen (Guard), Nick Collison (Forward), Mickael Gelabale (Forward), Rashard Lewis (Forward), Johan Petro (Center), Luke Ridnour (Guard), Mouhamed Sene (Center), Robert Swift (Center), Earl Watson (Guard), Chris Wilcox (Forward), Damien Wilkins (Forward).

Team Needs: Scoring, help on the boards, athleticism, strength down low and toughness.

Draft picks: 1st round (2nd overall), 2nd round (31st overall), 2nd round (35th overall).

SEA

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