Sean Deveney

Rodney Stuckey isn’t the only player from the 2007 draft class who is facing a make-or-break year. Several of his fellow high-profile draftees have made little progress entering their third seasons and must produce this year to ensure their NBA futures.

Mike Conley, Grizzlies (fourth overall pick). Conley blossomed in the second half of last season, after the Grizzlies traded Kyle Lowry and handed Conley the starting job. But this year, his poor shooting has returned, and he has been turnover prone. He can’t allow Memphis’ dalliance with Allen Iverson throw him off.

Yi Jianlian, Nets (sixth overall pick, by Bucks). Yi was advertised as a big man who could shoot, and though he is definitely big, there’s little evidence that he can shoot consistently. Even if he gets his shot together, he will have to be more effective defensively and on the glass to warrant a starting spot on any NBA team, even the Nets.

Julian Wright, Hornets (13th overall pick). As a rookie two years ago, Wright was productive, but stubborn and flighty. Well, you can remove productive from that equation. Wright has gone backward since his rookie season, and though some blame goes to coach Byron Scott for not getting the most out of Wright, most blame falls on Wright, who appears bent on squandering his talent.

Al Thornton, Clippers (14th overall pick). Thornton posted nice numbers last year (16.8 points per game) but continued to frustrate coach Mike Dunleavy with defensive miscues and a tendency to make boneheaded offensive decisions. The Clippers brought in Rasual Butler, and injuries are the only reason Thornton is back in the starting five.

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