2009 NBA Draft

Who will join Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Jeff Green as a core member of the Oklahoma City Thunder, another piece to a future so many are excited about. We will find out tonight as the 2009 NBA Draft is held at Madison Square Garden at 6 p.m., televised on ESPN.

Of course, many metro residents long hoped for a scenario in which OKC drafts University of Oklahoma star Blake Griffin. But it appears that's a long shot at best, Griffin almost certainly to be chosen #1 overall by the Los Angeles Clippers.

With the 3rd pick in the draft, there are plenty of options for the Thunder, the most likely choices being Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio, 7' 3" Connecticut center Hasheem Thabeet, Davidson shooting guard Stephen Curry or Arizona State shooting guard James Harden. Of course, who knows what GM Sam Presti might do. In a draft with few can't-miss prospects after our very own Griffin, making some draft-day deals may also be in the cards.

The official Thunder site at thunder.nba.com has player profiles, interviews and more. And the organization is holding a Draft Party with games, prizes and more at Norman's Riverwind Casino. Check back here for updates once the selections are in.

Update: As expected, Griffin was selected by the Clippers with the first pick. Oklahoma City took James Harden at number 3 and will pick again at 25.

_{Photo: Chris Graythen / Getty Images}