#10: Jimmer Fredette
The Milwaukee Bucks held the tenth pick in the 2011 NBA Draft; however, the Sacramento Kings will end up with the pick in a last-minute trade deal involving three teams. The Kings also reacquire swingman John Salmons and send point guard Beno Udrih to the Bucks. Moving Udrih means the Kings lose his $6.9M contract next season (further, he had a player option worth $7.4M the following season).
BYU’s Jimmer Fredette, the reigning National Player the Year, was named the tenth overall pick by David Stern.
With Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins the cornerstone of the franchise, Fredette appears to be an ideal selection to spread that number to three and serve as a backcourt partner with the talented Evans.
The 6’2.5″ sharpshooter – who led the nation in scoring last season (28.9 ppg) – has the uncanny ability and range to get a shot off wherever and whenever he likes. There’s been no shortage of knocks on his defensive and playmaking abilities, but he’s been trying to change minds during this draft season. His transition to the NBA level will be a very interesting study.
He looks to jump right to starting point guard duties, so Evans, a 6’6″ combo guard, can be moved off the ball along with Marcus Thornton.
Another benefit to drafting Fredette is the potential spike in ticket sales and general buzz surrounding a player with such name recognition. Given the Kings precarious location/arena issues, this could be a critical acquisition.
The Kings also have the 35th and 60th picks in the draft. With their dismal 2010-11 season (24-58, 14th in the Western Conference) fresh on their minds, the rebuilding is in full swing.
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