Golden State to Beantown, Yi's destination a lottery
Chicago Bulls
The consensus among draft watchers is that, if Yi is still on the board when they pick 9th, Chicago will take him.
The team needs offensive help in the frontcourt to make up for defensive stalwart Ben Wallace's lack of numbers - and few doubt Yi's ability to put the ball in the hoop.
But the Bulls will be chasing a championship next season, and a talent proven in American college ball such as Al Thornton could be safer choice.
Boston Celtics
Before the draft truly began taking shape a couple of months ago, Beantown was considered the most likely destination for Yi.
GM Danny Ainge has seen Yi play more than a dozen times in person, including a trip to April's CBA playoffs.
But after a trip to Los Angeles earlier this month to watch Yi work out - against a chair - he appeared frustrated.
"It was a good workout, Yi against a chair or a coach," said Ainge. "That's how some of those workouts are beautiful. The chair played good defense a couple times."
Reports indicate Ainge will likely plump for Jeff Green or Corey Brewer over Yi, but with the team desperately needing experience the pick could be traded.
Sacramento Kings
If Yi slips down to 10th the Kings are unlikely to take a pass.
The team lacks a scoring forward to compliment All-Star Brad Miller, but has strength in the backcourt in Mike Bibby, Kevin Martin and Ron Artest.
The situation could get complicated though, as after a dismal season the Kings are thinking of trading Bibby and Artest and rebuilding around Martin. If Bibby goes, the Kings could well opt for a point guard with their pick.
Philadelphia 76ers
Yi was not linked with the 76ers a month ago as the franchise doesn't even own a top 10 pick in the Draft. But with recent rumblings that Yi may be on the slide, suddenly the 12th pick may be in play.
Billy King, the 76ers president and general manager, watched Yi work out a week ago in Los Angeles, and he is optimistic Yi will still be there at 12.
"Andre was supposed to be there and he was there," King said, referring to Andre Iguodala, whom the Sixers drafted ninth in 2004. "Yi fits in well. It was definitely worth a visit. I'm glad we made the trip."
Golden State Warriors
In terms of fit, Golden State Warriors is perfect for Yi. He would be a huge draw given the Bay Area's huge Chinese population, and many believe Yi would prefer a West Coast team.
Under Don Nelson the team play a free-flowing, attacking brand of basketball that would allow Yi to shine - especially as the team lacks an athletic forward presence.
The snag?
Warriors own the 18th pick, and to get Yi they'll likely have to trade up, which would involve sacrificing a franchise player like Jason Richardson - something GM Chris Mullin may find hard to stomach.
(China Daily 06/28/2007 page18)
