The 2009 NBA Draft: A Retrospective Redraft

By Ali Hammad June 01, 2024 21:16

The 2009 NBA Draft was a turning point for many young basketball hopefuls as they stepped into the professional realm of the NBA. With stars like Blake Griffin, James Harden, and Stephen Curry entering the league, the draft class was filled with talent and potential. Fast forward to the present, and we can see how these players have evolved, exceeding expectations for some, and falling short for others. In this article, we'll take a trip down memory lane and perform a "redraft" of the first 15 picks, considering the players' careers up to this point.

The Redraft

1. Stephen Curry

Steph Curry, the Golden State Warriors' maestro, has undeniably redefined the NBA with his transcendent shooting and playmaking abilities. His impact on the game, highlighted by multiple MVP awards and championships, cements his position as the top pick in our redraft.

Statistical Analysis: Curry's unprecedented three-point shooting, coupled with his elite playmaking, has revolutionized the game. He holds records for three-pointers made in a season and has been instrumental in the Warriors' success.

2. James Harden

James Harden's scoring prowess and offensive wizardry make him a force to be reckoned with. His ability to carry teams and consistent individual accolades justify his selection as the second pick in our redraft.

3. Blake Griffin

Despite injury setbacks, Blake Griffin's early career dominance and versatility make him a worthy pick at the third spot. His impact as a high-flying forward and his adaptability to different roles solidify his position.

4. Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday's defensive tenacity and leadership qualities elevate him to the fourth pick. His impact on both ends of the floor and his ability to run an offense make him a valuable asset for any team.

5. DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan's consistent scoring and work ethic position him as the fifth pick. His evolution into a multifaceted scorer and his impact on the floor make him an attractive choice.

6. Taj Gibson

Taj Gibson's defensive prowess and basketball IQ make him a reliable presence in the paint, justifying his selection at the sixth spot in our redraft.

7. Jeff Teague

Jeff Teague's speed and playmaking abilities make him a dependable point guard, warranting his selection at the seventh spot. His impact on the game and his ability to control the tempo make him a valuable asset.

8. Danny Green

Danny Green's three-point shooting and defensive acumen earn him the eighth spot in our redraft. His ability to stretch the floor and impact the game defensively make him a coveted player.

9. Patty Mills

Patty Mills' energy, three-point shooting, and championship experience make him a valuable asset, justifying his selection at the ninth spot. His impact off the bench and ability to change the momentum of games make him a valuable addition.

10. Omri Casspi

Omri Casspi's versatility as a forward and ability to stretch the floor warrant his selection at the tenth spot in our redraft. His impact as a floor spacer and team player make him an attractive pick.

11. Darren Collison

Darren Collison's speed, playmaking, and ability to run an offense position him as the eleventh pick. His consistency and impact as a floor general make him a valuable addition to any team.

12. Wesley Matthews

Wesley Matthews' three-point shooting and defensive intensity make him a valuable "3-and-D" player, justifying his selection at the twelfth spot. His impact on both ends of the floor makes him a sought-after player.

13. Marcus Thornton

Marcus Thornton's scoring ability and offensive prowess make him a valuable contributor, warranting his selection at the thirteenth spot. His impact as a scorer and offensive spark plug make him an intriguing pick.

14. DeMarre Carroll

DeMarre Carroll's defensive versatility and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor position him as the fourteenth pick. His impact as a defensive stopper and team player make him a valuable addition.

15. Patrick Beverley

Patrick Beverley's defensive tenacity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses make him a valuable asset, justifying his selection at the fifteenth spot. His impact as a defensive anchor and his ability to energize his team make him an attractive pick.

Reflecting on the Draft

The 2009 NBA Draft class has left an indelible mark on the league, with players like Steph Curry, James Harden, and others reshaping the NBA landscape. As we redrafted these prospects based on their career trajectories, it's evident that their impact and evolution as players have reshaped the league in profound ways, cementing the 2009 class as one of the most influential in recent memory.