NBA Draft Rumors: Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green to go 1 and 2, respectively?
NBA Draft rumors or smokescreen? Cade Cunningham and Jalen Green slated to go 1 and 2, respectively?
The 2021 NBA Draft is slated to mark the official start of the offseason. And with many big-name players sitting at the top of the board, there will certainly be the opportunity for some vintage smokescreen work between teams
Smokescreen leaks are generally used to either throw opposing teams off the scent of what said team is thinking or how they’re leaning regarding a prospect or as a way to better position themselves heading into the draft.
It’s early, but there are two recent reports that could be subject to being a smokescreen leak.
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First, it was reported that the Detroit Pistons are leaning towards drafting Cade Cunningham with the No. 1 overall pick. This isn’t exactly shocking by any means, but would all but eliminate any potential drama at the top.
And according to a report from The Ringer, the Houston Rockets, who are slated to pick at No. 2, prefer Jalen Green (under the assumption that Cunningham will be drafted first).
"[via The Ringer]League sources say the Rockets prefer Green."
It’s tough to say if these recent reports are smoke or if there’s something more to them. Of course, there’s really no incentive to the Pistons leaking this report – unless they’re hoping a team can put together a godfather offer to move up to No. 1.
The big question of whether these reports are smoke or not revolves around the Rockets’ tidbit. They could be leaking that they favor Green in an attempt to get a good offer to move back. Especially if the player that Houston really prefers will be available a few spots back.
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The draft is less than two weeks away and I’m sure this is just the start of the leaking and smokescreens – whether you believe this is one of them or not. It’ll be interesting to see how the next few weeks shape the actual draft.