From Carolina to Cleveland

Amidst the pomp and circumstance surrounding the huge trade that sent Shaquille O'Neal to Cleveland to team with LeBron James in hopes of bringing to the city a much desired championship, many fans of the NBA have spent little time talking about one particular move the Cavs made on draft day to ensure a trip to the 2010 NBA Finals.

With the 46^th overall pick in the NBA draft the Cleveland Cavaliers selected forward Danny Green from the University of North Carolina. This 6ft 6" swingman gives the Cavs a polished three point shooter who also plays outstanding defense. These skills will be put to immediate use and are the perfect remedy for the problems LeBron and company faced against the Orlando Magic.

Danny Green's tenure at Chapel Hill makes him an unbelievable steal with this pick. His strengths, documented by scouts, include decision making, off-ball movement, shot-blocking, and wingspan. These skills, which are essential for playing consistent offense and strong defense, will allow him to make an immediate impact at the NBA level.

On the flip side, weaknesses such as ability to create own shot, ball-handling, and explosiveness can be easily masked on a team with a veteran passing center like Shaq, a brilliant point guard like Mo Williams, and the single most dominant player in the game at this time, LeBron James. With them on the court, Danny Green will find that he can make the transition to the NBA without much difficulty and become just the right catalyst to make those guys even more effective.

Let's not forget that Danny Green brings with him a winners mentality as well. He played a vital role on the UNC team that beat the Michigan Spartans 89-72 in the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball National Championship in April. His experience and leadership will pay huge dividends for a Cleveland team that was one series away from contesting for an NBA championship. Winning breeds winning and the Cavs definitely added a winner.

The city of Cleveland has waited for a professional championship for almost 46 years. They have entrusted their basketball team to a local hero, LeBron James, who has raised them from mediocrity and has given them hope. Their GM Danny Ferry has given his whole heart towards making the championship dream a reality. By bringing this kid from Carolina to Cleveland just after he made a blockbuster trade to bring Shaquille O'Neal to town, Ferry has helped the team take a huge step toward reaching that goal. Now, it is up to Danny Green to put the work in and prove that he can be an asset. A task this Tarheel will pass with flying colors.
Sources:

RealGM.com