When I look back at the 2006 NBA Draft, I can't help but think about the impact certain players have had and some of the missed opportunities by various teams. The draft that year took place on June 28, 2006, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, and it featured some memorable picks, as well as a few head-scratching decisions.
Starting with the first overall pick, the Toronto Raptors selected Andrea Bargnani from Italy. He was touted as a player with tremendous potential, similar to Dirk Nowitzki’s skill set. However, Bargnani’s career didn’t exactly live up to those lofty expectations. Over his time in the NBA, he averaged 14.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, numbers respectable but not reflective of a top pick. His efficiency rating was often criticized, and injuries also played a significant role in limiting his impact.
Kudos to the Portland Trail Blazers for selecting LaMarcus Aldridge with the second pick after a draft-day trade with the Chicago Bulls. Aldridge would become a cornerstone for the Blazers, averaging 19.4 points and 8.2 rebounds over his career. His mid-range game and consistency were key for Portland during his tenure. Aldridge’s selection brought the Blazers numerous playoff appearances and maintained the franchise's competitiveness.
However, one of the most talked-about selections happened at the fifth spot: the Atlanta Hawks choosing Shelden Williams. Williams had a solid college career at Duke but failed to replicate that success in the NBA. In contrast, the sixth pick, Brandon Roy, chosen by the Minnesota Timberwolves and traded to the Blazers, went on to win the Rookie of the Year. Roy’s first three seasons saw him scoring over 20 points per game, and he was a three-time All-Star before knee injuries derailed his promising career.
One of the biggest steals in this draft? The Boston Celtics picking Rajon Rondo at the 21st spot. Rondo became a pivotal player for the Celtics, contributing to their 2008 NBA Championship. His defense, court vision, and ability to rack up assists made him indispensable. Rondo's career averages include 8.7 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
Many consider the 2006 draft a year of what-ifs, particularly when you think about the ninth overall pick: Patrick O'Bryant going to the Golden State Warriors. O'Bryant’s NBA tenure proved underwhelming, averaging only 2.1 points over his career. This pick leaves me wondering, what if they had chosen Paul Millsap instead, who was picked 47th by the Utah Jazz? Millsap has become a four-time All-Star, known for his versatility and defensive prowess.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets deserve a mention for their smart decision to pick Rudy Gay eighth overall before trading him to the Memphis Grizzlies. Gay averaged over 17 points per game and was a prolific scorer, though he never quite reached superstar status. Still, he offered solid returns for a mid-lottery pick.
Looking deeper into the second round, the Jazz again made a savvy choice with Paul Millsap. Usually, second-rounders don't pan out, but Millsap defied the odds, accumulating career averages of 13.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His reliability and consistency have been noteworthy, proving that gems can indeed be found even late in the draft.
One can't ignore the missed opportunity by the Phoenix Suns who selected Sergio Rodriguez at 27th only to trade him on draft day. Rodriguez spent limited time in the NBA before heading back to Europe, where he regained his form. One might wonder how different things could have been had they instead opted for Kyle Lowry, who went 24th to the Memphis Grizzlies and has since become an NBA champion and multi-time All-Star.
Reflecting on these picks, it’s fascinating to see how each player’s career unfolded. While some teams like the 2006 nba draft Trail Blazers and Celtics capitalized on their picks, others like the Hawks and Warriors might look back with a tinge of regret. Draft night decisions have long-lasting impacts that shape franchises for years, and the 2006 NBA Draft provides a compelling case study in both brilliant selections and glaring misses.