David Thorpe ranks rookies for ESPN. Early last season, he loved Yi Jianlian (and Sean Williams, too). He even thought Atlanta made a mistake taking Al Horford over Yi! He admits he was "dead wrong" but in ranking second year players, Thorpe refuses to give up on Yi. "Seeing him improve greatly next season would not be surprising at all." He doesn't even mention Williams. John Hollinger disagrees re Yi.
- Which sophs have some work to do? - David Thorpe - ESPN Insider
- Hollinger's Gems: April 10, 2009 - John Hollinger - ESPN Insider