The New Jersey Nets shouldn’t plan any parades just yet.
Since 1985, the team that finished with the worst record has landed the top pick only four times — the same amount of times as the team with the fifth worst record (hope for you, Wizards fans). The best spot? Third. That team has won it five times. Sacramento would like to make it six.
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Anyway, here are three teams to watch.
New Jersey » If the Nets get lucky they will end up with the top pick and point guard John Wall. Would that give LeBron James more incentive to sign with them? They have young talent and this would provide a stud point guard, plus they could trade incumbent Devin Harris to fill another hole. The Nets’ coaching search would be enhanced by owning the top choice.
Los Angeles Clippers » If the Clips are lucky two years in a row, then the addition of Wall (along with aging point guard Baron Davis) could entice James. Unless he pays attention to the rest of the organization. Regardless, if the Clips move up from No. 8, they’ll add a top talent to a good, young roster.
Utah Jazz » They own the New York Knicks’ selection thanks to a 2004 trade involving Stephon Marbury. Yep, Isiah Thomas is still paying dividends. The Jazz have only a 2.2 percent chance of landing the top spot and likely will pick ninth. Of course, Chicago had the same odds two years ago — and landed the pick.
