Viktor moved to USA after the finish of Russian Superleague final. As last year he had practices at 8 clubs of NBA. His teammate Monya went to USA just yesterday.
American press is covering perspectives of European players on the draft-2004. Sport portal USA Today has given big review about army players:
Viktor Khryapa:
Overview: Khryapa spent the last two seasons playing for CSKA Moscow in Russia and averaged 6.6 points in that span. Khryapa was mostly hidden during the past two years to avoid the eyes of scouts, but it has not hid the fact that Khryapa has the ability to play inside and outside in the NBA. The 21-year-old is a surprisingly effective athlete who likes to block shots and bang inside while also possessing a terrific 3-point stroke. Khryapa declared for the NBA draft last season, before withdrawing.
Likely draft position: When Khryapa pulled out of the draft last year after not being able to make it to the United States for NBA workouts, he was regarded as a first-rounder. One season and some minimal improvement later, the Russian swingman's stock has flagged somewhat. Recent workouts have been helping him regain respect, however. Khryapa is a late first/early second-rounder.
Comparative upside: Derrick McKey
Comparative downside: Dan Langhi
Role projection: Key reserve
Positives: Khryapa is a true small forward. He can match up defensively, one of his strengths, and has the size to get off his shot on the offensive end. Khryapa also is mobile, a terrific spot-up shooter and can pass, handle, rebound, block shots and collect steals.
Shortcomings: Although he can do a bit of everything, Khryapa is not necessarily going to stand out at the NBA level because he does not dominate in any particular facet. His lack of weight also is a concern, especially given his age. Khryapa will be 22 by his rookie season – making him a fossil by today's NBA draft standards – so it is unlikely his body or skills will improve much more than they already have.
What they're saying: "Khryapa can come in (the NBA) and maybe help you a little bit right now." – Charlotte Bobcats director of international scouting Tim Shea.
Sergei Monya:
Overview: Monya is one of the rising young stars of the Russian system. The 21-year-old has averaged just under 8.0 points per game in his two seasons with CSKA Moscow and played as a reserve for a club that reached the Euroleague Final Four. Monya's greatest asset is his versatility because he has the fundamental skills of a center in a small forward's physique. A decent shooter, Monya has plenty of question marks in terms of where he fits in an NBA setting. His talent cannot be questioned, but he must prove he has the toughness and tenacity to perform in the American style of play.
Likely draft position: It is believed the Utah Jazz will select Monya with either the 14th or 16th pick in the draft. The last time the organization plucked a CSKA Moscow forward in the first round — Andrei Kirilenko in 1999 — he turned into an All-Star.
Comparative upside: James Posey
Comparative downside: Johnny Taylor
Role projection: Key reserve, future starter
Positives: Monya is a thoroughbred in the open court. He loves filling the wing and scoring points in transition. He has above-average athleticism, a solid shooting touch and good size. Many believe Monya can be an excellent all-around contributor in the NBA. He was a key player this year on a CSKA team that featured four former NBA players and one other probable draft pick.
Shortcomings: To play 2-guard in the NBA, Monya needs to continue developing an already solid outside shot and improve his ballhandling and first step. He would be a quality NBA small forward, but his upside is in the backcourt, where he has the ability to create mismatches due to his size.
What they're saying: "Monya has a good shot. Very much a role player. He's a shooter, scorer, good legs – I like his legs –but he doesn't really take advantage of the leg power that he has. He probably has a lot of upside. He's young kid but he's very close to being ready, he can come off the bench and help you. Defensively, he may be very challenged in this league, and that is something we have to take into consideration." –Charlotte Bobcats director of international scouting Tim Shea.
