NBA GM Rankings - Part 4 - Middling

These GMs have a pretty mixed history. They could be fired, yet have material to justify more time too.

"I'm still here but even I'm not sure I deserve to be."

18. Kahn MIN
Began this year, so why is he lumped in with all these seasoned vets? Given his lack of qualifications and inauspicious start he might already wonder when he'll see Kevin Love tweeting about his pink slip... Started well by dumping some veterans for the 5th pick in the draft but then drafted 2 PGs, including Rubio who has little incentive to leave Europe. Has a very curious roster right now but they're rebuilding. At this stage, he's right not to succumb to pressure to trade away assets because they don't fit together well. He hasn't been there long enough to judge really, but already several head-scratchers make you wonder.

17. Thorn NJN
Began in 2000. Got Kidd for Starbury, which turned things around for many seasons, but he never got them over the top. Hung on to Kidd for way too long and the franchise got stuck for years. Has done well since finally deciding to rebuild (although the Harris contract may be too rich). Despite their record this season, NJ is well-positioned with lots of young talent, draft picks, and cap space.

16. O'Connor UTA
Began in 1999, as the Malone/Stockton era wound down. Has consistently overpaid for big men (Okur, Boozer, Millsap, Kirilenko), but probably has to, considering SLC's desirability. Keeps finding solid players in the draft and the team is very competitive since DWill arrived. Probably not close to winning a title though and the prospects for getting better aren't great.

15. Walsh NYK
GM in Indiana since the 80s, moved to NY in 2008. Has successfully orchestrated a massive overhaul of the Knicks roster with the goal of hitting a 2010 free agent. Has done way better than anyone expected but has had to give up many draft picks to do it and may lose David Lee for nothing. Did OK in Indiana overall, but never quite won a title and left the franchise in pretty poor shape.