The leadup to the NBA draft last year was pretty funny, as messageboards all across the internet wondered just how Chicago GM John Paxson would mess up the first overall pick. After all, most thought the Bulls had wasted their luck on getting the #1 pick while only having a 1.7% chance in the lottery. Paxson, however, did the smart thing and took hometown boy Derrick Rose, fresh off carrying Memphis to the NCAA title game, and the young point guard has done nothing to show that Paxson was wrong. Here is a look at how the top ten picks are faring so far, if you are looking to make rookie picks in your NBA futures. Not surprisingly, NBA betting odds are giving Chicago and Miami the best chance to win this year, but don’t hold your breath.

Derrick Rose, Chicago – Is making the choice to pick him over Michael Beasley look absolutely genius. When he gets a consistent jump shot, it’s game over for the rest of the league. But until then, he’s content to do this:

Michael Beasley, Miami- Dude is talented, no doubt. But he looks so bored out there. I suppose it’s easy to be a bystander when Dwayne Wade is running the show. Being more competitive on the boards is a start.

O.J. Mayo, Memphis – Shoots a great percentage for a guard. It’s a shame he plays in Memphis.

Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City- Most thought this is a bad pick at #4, but Westbrook’s going to be a good player. He can already defend (something you can’t teach), and his shooting will improve. And his hops are insane.

Kevin Love, Minnesota – Minny fans are vexed at McHale for trading Love for Mayo, but give him time. Love and Al Jefferson could be a great (but EXTREMELY slow) duo in the future.

Danilo Gallinari, New York – It’s a good thing the Starbury and LeBron things are taking over the “Big Apple”. He’s apparently healthy now, but it’s not looking pretty.

Eric Gordon, LA Clippers – Still reminds me of Ben Gordon. No, that wasn’t a compliment.

Joe Alexander, Milwaukee – Unless Richard Jefferson gets hurt, this dude ain’t seeing more than 15 minutes a game.

D.J. Augustin, Charlotte – Mark my words: Raymond Felton will be gone next year, and Augustin’s gonna have the team all to himself.

Brook Lopez, New Jersey – Works hard on the boards, and doesn’t have to score a lot with Devin Harris (and remarkably, Vince Carter) playing out of his mind.