Something weird is happening. What once was called “The Greg Oden Draft” has slowly but surely become “The Oden/Durant Draft” and if things keep trending they way they are, it could become “The Durant/Oden Draft.”
Scouts still love Oden’s blend of size, athleticism and potential, but Durant is becoming a fan favorite, and many armchair GMs feel that he should be the #1 pick in this summer’s draft.
There’s no doubt that Durant has had a better season. He’s averaging 25.1 points and 11.4 rebounds, while shooting 48.5% from the field and 42.9% from long range. His Longhorns are 22-8 and are ranked #14 in the ESPN/USA Today poll. He’s the frontrunner on the short list of Player of the Year candidates. His stock has never been higher.
Meanwhile, Oden struggled early with a broken right hand. But he’s using it more and more, and is averaging 15.3 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.5 blocks on the season. His Buckeyes are 27-3 and are ranked #1 in the nation heading into this weekend’s Big Ten tournament.
Durant is polished offensively and is ready to be a star on the NBA level right now. He has great range, a pretty jumper, and can get a good shot just about any time he wants to. His ability to create his own shot is going to pay dividends at the next level.
It’s going to take Oden a few years to develop some post moves. All he has right now is a point blank dunk and an occasional jump hook. There has been some talk about his somewhat lackadaisical attitude, but I think he’s just a gentle guy. Maybe that’s good for his long-term prospects, maybe that’s bad, but I don’t think he’s lazy. This is a guy who learned how to shoot free throws left-handed at a 61.4% clip. The guy’s got a good work ethic.
I’ll need to see more of both guys before I’ll have a good sense about which guy should go #1. But right now, I’d draft based on need. Which means that if I’m Jerry West and I’ve got Pau Gasol on the roster, I’m seriously considering drafting Durant.
