I saw this coming a mile away. Mullin clearly did not have enough sway and while he may have had a decent season it was not an "I am an NBA talent" season. His height and some big NBA style games he ghosted. Team fades at end of year. He needed another season and there is a good chance with the core returning and an actually good coach that will make him work- he could have significantly improved his stock to be draft lock. I cannot fault the NBA for passing on him.
His best chance now is 2 way deal and he even hurts his Europe value as he was not even drafted. At least Dom had that leverage on Euro teams. I cannot even begin to describe Simon's foolish choice that is even worse. This team was primed to make a run and when that happens your stock rises with the national attention.
In regards to Ponds, I don’t think Mullin can be blamed for this. He broke down in each of the last two seasons during BE play. Why? Conditioning? Diet? Probably it’s both. It’s surprising to me to see that any college prospect wouldn’t take conditioning and diet seriously.
I believe Ponds has the talent to overcome these issues, but he won’t last long if he doesn’t make these changes and continue to take both seriously.
Simon is in fantastic shape. He dribbles the ball up to his forehead and he shoots a jumper like a 9 year old. I hope he’s able to hang on somehow, but he’s got a lot of improving to do before the league will want him.