Pope of Basketball.

Summary

Yang Rui provided manager Kupchak with a list of four candidates for the Lakers' draft, deciding to stay in Los Angeles for vacation. The Lakers held the 26th and 30th picks. Chinese media speculated about potential selections, with Yi Jian Lian expected to go early and Sun Yue having a slim chance. Yang Rui ruled out selecting Sun Yue due to the presence of Yao Ming and the league's preferences, as well as Marc Gasol, due to playing time issues. The Knicks surprisingly secured the first overall pick, selecting Greg Oden, who was seen as a future star but plagued by injury concerns. The Sonics chose Kevin Durant second, and the Bucks picked Al Horford third. The Timberwolves selected Yi Jian Lian sixth, disappointing Chinese fans. Yang Rui viewed Yi Jian Lian's situation as potentially advantageous for future contracts. The draft continued with various teams making selections, including the 76ers picking Branden White and the Rockets selecting Spencer Hawes. The Clippers controversially chose Jawad Williams, known for his problematic behavior, who later faced serious legal issues. The Knicks traded for the 23rd pick and selected Wilson Chandler, while the Lakers ultimately chose point guard Al Brooks.

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