Chapter 55: Unexpected Draft Results!
June 28th, US time, Madison Square Garden!
As the draft system improved, people's expectations for the draft grew. Today, rebuilding teams through the draft has become the default method for most teams in the league. Of course, some teams, eager for success, use more direct personnel transactions to quickly reinforce their rosters. But the ultimate goal remains the same: to develop a better team.
A month ago, there was already a lot of buzz about this year's draft. The 76ers, who had the No. 1 pick, seemed to have a clear favorite in Allen Iverson. With last year's third overall pick, Jerry Stackhouse, already on the team, it seemed more logical to strengthen their backcourt with Iverson than to choose Lin Tianhui.
The second-placed Toronto Raptors, in their second year in the league, faced a different challenge. They needed to build their team step by step through continuous drafts, focusing on hoarding talent for future growth. Although Lin Tianhui was a great prospect, they seemed more inclined to choose an inside player, given that a strong inside presence was still seen as a key to success in the league.
The Vancouver Grizzlies, in a similar position as the Raptors, also needed to build their team gradually. For them, drafting and developing inside players seemed more beneficial than outside players. Even though Lin Tianhui's stats were outstanding, they were more focused on growing step by step, which made the selection of an inside player more logical.
However, this analysis didn't rule out the possibility of the Raptors or Grizzlies choosing Lin Tianhui or trading their draft picks.
Most analysts believed that Lin Tianhui would likely end up with the Milwaukee Bucks with the fourth pick or the Minnesota Timberwolves with the fifth pick. But everything would depend on the final draft results.
As the draft began, NBA commissioner David Stern stepped onto the stage with excitement.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I am very happy to be here with you. Today is destined to be an unforgettable day. We will witness the growth of a group of young talents. The NBA needs fresh blood, and the draft provides such a platform. This year's draft is full of talented players, and I'm as excited as you are to see who will be the top pick."
With the audience holding their breath, David Stern prepared to announce the 76ers' choice.
"In the 1996 NBA draft, the first pick in the first round, the Philadelphia 76ers select - Allen Iverson!"
The audience erupted. Despite speculation about Lin Tianhui's potential, the 76ers had chosen Iverson, valuing a point guard over a dual-position player like Lin Tianhui.
Auerbach let out a sigh of relief, as the result aligned with his expectations. With four teams left to choose, he felt optimistic about landing Lin Tianhui.
"Allen, congratulations on joining the NBA as the No. 1 pick!" said David Stern as he greeted Iverson on stage. The media quickly shifted their focus to Lin Tianhui, but he remained composed, anticipating the next announcements.
Next, David Stern announced the Raptors' selection. Marcus Camby was chosen over Lin Tianhui, a choice that did not surprise many, given the Raptors' team culture.
Now, many believed Lin Tianhui would likely go to Milwaukee. The Vancouver Grizzlies, known for favoring inside players, seemed less likely to pick him.
However, in a shocking turn of events, the Grizzlies selected Lin Tianhui from the University of Massachusetts with the third overall pick!
The announcement stunned the audience, who turned their attention to David Stern in disbelief.
In a certain corner of the arena, someone pumped their fist excitedly. The Grizzlies had fulfilled their promise, and Lin Tianhui was really going to Vancouver!
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