Jimmer Fredette: Jazz, Suns, Pacers, and Knicks Showing Interest? (NBA DRAFT)
The NBA Draft is drawing near, and a big question still remains: where will Jimmer go?
Jimmer Fredette is the most exciting basketball player to come out of Brigham Young since Danny Ainge. He helped lead the Cougars to the Sweet 16 last season in a spirited run through the tournament.
The sharp-shooting guard drew a great deal of national interest during his senior season when he led the nation in scoring and won the Naismith and John R. Wooden Player of the Year awards.
Fredette comes into the league with concerns about his athleticism and lack of defensive skills, or a true NBA position. Despite the uncertainty, Fredette is still projected as a lottery pick and several NBA teams are interested in drafting the player who sparked the nationwide phenomenon known as "Jimmermania."
Here's a look at a four teams who are interested in acquiring the BYU standout:
Utah Jazz Picking at #12
The Jazz were forced to trade All-Star point guard Deron Williams last year so they need help at guard, particulary because of the possible departure of reserves who are free agents. Some are expecting the Jazz to disregard conventional wisdom and passs on the hometown hero with the 12th pick. After Williams's departure last year, the Jazz struggled to score. So it's rather hard to believe the Jazz would let Fredette slide when he's a local kid, as well as a need for the team.
Phoenix Suns Picking at #13
The Suns have reportedly shown an interest in acquiring Fredette at No. 13, if he slips past the Jazz. Under the tutelage of one of the best distributors in the NBA, Steve Nash, Fredette could develop the necessary skills to be a legitimate floor general. Fredette's shooting touch and quick release fits with the Suns' high-tempo offense so he' might be a strong pick at No. 13.
Indiana Pacers Picking at #15
The Pacers have also shown an interest in selecting Fredette, considering their need for spot-up shooting off the bench. The Pacers had some offensive struggles last season, so adding Fredette as a backup for starter Darren Collison would possibly be a great option if he's around when they pick.
New York Knicks Picking at #17
Fredette was born in upstate New York, so he would be somewhat of a hometown pick. The Knicks have had him in team workouts several times in the last two weeks. The Knicks would have to trade up in the draft to get Fredette. Head coach Mike D'Antoni developed the Suns' "7 seconds or less offense" when he coached the Phoenix Suns, and he probably covets Fredette's outside shooting. It is very unlikely Fredette will be around at this pick, so general manager Donnie Walsh will need to trade up.
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