2011 NBA Mock Draft: Will Terrence Jones Be a Top-5 Pick?
Nick Laham/Getty Images
In many 2011 NBA mock drafts, Terrence Jones of Kentucky has seen his stock rise since the start of the 2011 NCAA tournament. But even with the sensational play of one of the Wildcat freshmen, should Jones be a top-five pick?
Ultimately, that all depends on who else declares for the draft. While many talented underclassmen are expected to make themselves eligible, nothing is guaranteed. In fact, while many still feel as if Jared Sullinger of Ohio State will be the top overall pick, he has publicly stated that he will return to the Buckeyes for another season.
Jones is in great company as far as other potential "one-and-done" players who are expected to leave school after their freshman seasons.
Harrison Barnes of North Carolina, Kyrie Irving of Duke and Jones' teammate at Kentucky, Brandon Knight, could all declare and become top-10 picks if they enter the 2011 NBA draft.
Jones is likely to go within the top 10, but I feel that top five could be a stretch, unless others follow Sullinger's lead and do in fact return for another season, which is what many of the players should consider.
Stay tuned for an update on what every team could do in the 2011 NBA draft.
Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft will feature many very talented freshman in its class. And although he didn't play as many games as the others, Kyrie Irving of Duke could very well be the No. 1 overall pick in the draft and groomed as a replacement for LeBron James to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cleveland needs a superstar to build around, and while Irving is not the same type of player that James is, he could be something for Cavs fans that James is not.
That would be wearing a Cleveland uniform in the present.
Irving did not play a full college season, but he was considered as the top overall pick before he went down with a big toe injury. He played just eight games prior to that, and came back in the 2011 NCAA Tournament and did not change anyone's mind. He is still ranked as the top overall prospect by many scouts.
The Cavaliers are in need of a complete overhaul, and where guard play is so important in the NBA today, Irving would be a great way to start building toward the future.
And by future, I mean as soon as they can win the season series against James and the Miami Heat. That would be good enough for Cleveland, at least for the time being.
Chad Ford of ESPN said that "Irving's 31.7 PER ranking would put him in the top 5 of all college players. Only two draft prospects -- [Derrick] Williams and Kenneth Faried -- were more efficient this year. He plays a critical position that several lottery teams (see Cleveland, Sacramento and Minnesota) desperately need. If everything clicks in workouts and physicals, he has a very strong case for the No. 1 pick."
You could not go wrong in selecting Irving. He certainly has the skills necessary to run an offense at the next level, and he will continue to improve with more minutes. In one season at Duke where he played only a handful of games, he showed why he should be in consideration for the No. 1 pick. That is awfully impressive.
Irving has not yet declared himself eligible for the 2011 NBA Draft. But it is something that everyone feels has been a foregone conclusion for a very long time. If he does in fact come out after one season at Duke, there is no reason to believe that he will not go within the first two or three picks.
If he doesn't go first overall.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
In the 2011 NBA Draft, many players have used the 2011 NCAA Tournament to help improve their draft status. Some players will ride a deep tournament run right into the draft, and Derrick Williams of Arizona is one of those players.
Williams saw his draft stock rise with each passing game. He developed into one of the most impressive players in the country as the season progressed, and he could be a top pick if he decides to come out after his sophomore season and declare for the 2011 NBA Draft.
Although they could use some improvement at the guard position, drafting Williams would be so tempting for the Minnesota Timberwolves that it would be almost impossible to pass him up, unless Kyrie Irving of Duke was still on the board when they pick.
But if the Wolves did take Williams, it would give them one of the most impressive frontcourts in the entire league. He would fit very well with Kevin Love and Michael Beasley.
That would be a scary trio to have to try and defend or to go up against defensively.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "Derrick Williams has been steadily rising in our rankings all year. He began the season ranked No. 26 on our Big Board. In late December he cracked the lottery. In January we moved him into our Top 10 and in February we moved him all the way to No. 4 on our Big Board and we raised the possibility of Williams being the No. 1 pick in the draft."
Some may criticize that Williams did not play against some of the toughest defenders in the country during a weak Pac-10 season, but he proved in the 2011 NCAA Tournament that he can play against the best. It may take him a year or two to polish some of his skills, but there is very little reason to believe why he could not dominate at the next level as well.
Williams is just two seasons removed from high school, so it may be good for him to return to school for one more year. But it will not likely improve his draft stock all that much, because it is almost as high as it can go right now. He may get better after one more year in college, but he won't get selected much higher.
That is what leads me to think that he will throw his name into this year's draft pool.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Chris Trotman/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is about predicting which players will go to which teams. It is also about predicting which ones will even declare themselves eligible at this point.
Jared Sullinger of Ohio State said that he was going to return for his sophomore season with the Buckeyes. But he said immediately after Ohio State was upset in the 2011 NCAA Tournament by Kentucky. A lot can change, and Sullinger has plenty of time still to declare for the draft.
Sullinger is unquestionably a top three or four pick, and he could fit in perfectly with the Washington Wizards. Washington already has its backcourt of the future in John Wall and Nick Young, but Sullinger would fit in very well with the likes of Andray Blatche and JaVale Mcgee.
In just one season in college, Sullinger was able to dominate in the paint at Ohio State. He has a great post game and also plays solid defense. His game should translate very well into the NBA, and he may be the most ready freshman in the draft pool, provided he does in fact come out early.
Many underclassmen should return to school for another season. It would make them a better player, help them win a national championship and possibly avoid becoming another first round bust. But Sullinger is ready right now, and I'm not sure that returning to school for another season would help his draft stock at all.
Chad Ford of ESPN says of Sullinger that "Given that his biggest negatives are his lack of height and explosive athleticism, which won't be easy to improve, another year of college experience should only marginally help his draft stock next year. Look for him to be a potential top-five pick again in 2012."
Given the uncertain state of the NBA with rookie salary caps and lockouts and all, I truly believe that Sullinger would be better served coming out this season and entering the 2011 NBA Draft in June. Ford is right in saying that his status would not really change whether he comes out this season or next.
He has the size and abilities to dominate inside on both ends of the floor for many years to come. If he does declare early, the Wizards would have to consider themselves lucky and thrilled if Sullinger fell to them.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Nick Laham/Getty Images
In the 2011 NBA Draft, some teams will be looking for a centerpiece to their team, while others will be looking for the missing piece.
The Sacramento Kings may not be that close to competing for an NBA championship, or even a playoff spot. but adding one of the best pure scorers in this year's draft pool could go a long ways in helping them get back into the postseason.
Harrison Barnes of North Carolina could be just what the team needs as they consider moving the franchise to Anaheim. Although he played just one season at Chapel Hill, Barnes proved that he can knock down the big shot when the game is on the line.
Barnes did not live up to his expectations as a Tar Heel in his first season, but given some of the lofty and ridiculous expectations that were placed upon him, I'm not sure he ever stood a chance.
Being named as the first ever freshman preseason All-American member certainly set the bar high. While Barnes finished the season much better than he started it, he could have never lived up to the unfair hype from since he was in high school.
Simply put, it was unfair to expect that much out of any freshman, not just Barnes.
But as the season progressed, Barnes continued to knock down one big shot after another for North Carolina. This was not a team expected to compete for all that much this season, but it was largely due to the strong play of the UNC rookie that helped get them to the Elite Eight. Barnes was also the main reason why the 'Heels almost came back to defeat Kentucky and advance to the 2011 Final Four.
Prior to last weekend's games, Chad Ford of ESPN said that "Barnes is playing with a lot of confidence right now. He's hunting for his shot on the offensive end and is an aggressive defender. He can still disappear for stretches (as he did at the start of the second half against the Huskies), but when his team needs a clutch basket or a defensive stop, he has come up big over and over again. If he keeps up the strong play in the next round, he'll likely rise to No. 2 on our Big Board behind Irving."
Still, I feel as if Barnes would benefit greatly from at least one more season in college. In fact, I feel that all of the Tar Heels who could be first or second round picks would be best served coming back to compete for a national championship. Barnes would still be the centerpiece, and could cement his status as the No. 1 overall pick next season, whereas he is most likely not the top pick this year, depending on who else declares themselves eligible.
But if he does enter the 2011 NBA Draft, Barnes will undoubtedly be a top five pick at worst. With the Kings being set at a few positions with Tyreke Evans and Demarcus Cousins if he can grow up, Barnes would be a very good fit for this team.
If they do move to Anaheim, Barnes would be a great way for them to ring in their new arena.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Andy Lyons/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is about potential. Sure, you draft on what you have seen out of players so far, but you also have to predict what they will be at the next level. There is no such thing as a sure thing, so every player entering the draft has potential. It is up to every team to determine who has the most potential to help lead their team in the future.
Teams may have only seen one season out of Perry Jones from Baylor, but it was enough to prove to them that he is a likely top five pick in June.
Jones would fit perfectly into the system the Toronto Raptors run, and he could be a very quick contributor. Maybe not as a rookie, but the skill set is there for him to have a very promising NBA career.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that while Jones has a ton of potential, he still has his flaws.
Ford points out that "NBA coaches won't need him to play in the middle, and a few open-minded ones might even let him play some guard. His athleticism and skill level for a big man is what puts him in the conversation for the No. 1 pick. But make no mistake: Overall, it's been a disappointing freshman season for Jones. Scouts worry about his drive, his development and his toughness."
Still, everyone needs to remember that it was just one season. he finished the year with a very good field goal percentage, and his potential is through the roof.
Fran Fraschilla of ESPN also noted that Jones has some downside, but also noted how great he could be with some seasoning and the right coaching.
"I live in Dallas, and last spring I saw Jones work out quite a bit," wrote Fraschilla. "He has a tremendous basketball body. He's 6-foot-10, 230 pounds -- might still be growing -- and he can handle the ball like a forward or a guard. He has a tremendous work ethic and attitude, as well."
Ultimately, Jones is a risk. But can anyone name one player who is not, at least to some extent? His risk will not outweigh the possible reward for one NBA team, and the Raptors could make the most sense.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft features many underclassmen who need to polish a few of their skills before they can reach an elite status at the next level. Brandon Knight of Kentucky is one of those types of players, but he is already very close to looking like he could play a key role as a rookie next season.
That is why he would be a great pick for the Utah Jazz. They will need some guards to work around, and as of now, Knight is sort of a combo guard who can play the point of the two spot at different times on the floor.
Knight can be a bit streaky at times. In some game,s he looks great, where as in others he is almost mediocre. He needs to work on the consistency of his shooting in order to develop into an elite guard at the next level. Right now, he is not quite there yet, although that will not prevent many teams from selecting him in the 2011 lottery.
Chad Ford of ESPN said during the opening weekend of the 2011 NCAA Tournament that " Scouts got down on Knight in a hurry after a so-so performance in the Maui Invitational Tournament in November. While Knight is clearly talented, his struggles running coach John Calipari's dribble-drive offense had scouts questioning what sort of point guard he'd be in the pros."
He also added "But Knight got better -- a lot better -- as the season progressed, much like two other former Calipari guards, Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans. Knight is more comfortable running the offense (especially since Calipari has him using more ball screens) and has been Kentucky's steadiest player this season."
Knight shines in some games, like he did against North Carolina in the Elite Eight, but struggles significantly in others, like in the Wildcats' tourney opener against Princeton. As a freshman, he certainly has plenty of room for growth, but he will need to take significant steps forward to make it in the NBA.
But regardless of how he starts in big games, nobody can question his clutch shooting at the end of games. Although it was his only field goal of the game, he sent Princeton packing at the end of the game. He had a much better start against Ohio State and North Carolina, but he did the same thing toward the end of those huge games as well.
Question his consistency all you want - and I do - but the bottom line is that this kid comes up big every time when it matters most.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Doug Pensinger/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is about selecting a player who can help your team improve. Many teams will draft a project because they see great potential in the future. Other teams will take a player who just needs a season or two to develop. Others need a player who can turn their franchise around immediately.
The Detroit Pistons would be the latter in that scenario. But truthfully, can any one player turn this team around?
The Pistons are horrible. They can't score, pass, rebound or defend. They are just a bad team who quit on their coach earlier this season, and they are a disgrace to the city and the fans.
Yet you know what they say about things having to first hit rock bottom before they get better? That is what would happen if Detroit drafts Jan Vesely of the Czech Republic in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft.
That is no knock against Vesely, although I am certainly not saying I would draft him. But the Pistons need someone to help improve their team right now. As in today. They cannot afford the luxury of being patient. Sure, whoever they draft will not turn them into a playoff contender next season - even in the weak lower half of the Eastern Conference - but they need someone who will at least show up to the team.
That is the problem with drafting European players. You have no idea if they will get out of their contracts and ever join your team.
How is Ricky Rubio panning out for the Minnesota Timberwolves thus far? And he is not the only one.
Detroit should have learned from the Dark Milicic disaster. You think they would have rather had Carmelo Anthony? Or Chris Bosh? Or Dwyane Wade?
Funny, that is the year that LeBron James came out as well, but he went first overall, so Detroit could not have drafted him. It was like the whole current Miami Heat team entered the league at the same time, just with different teams to begin.
But anyway.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "Vesely is a terrific athlete who has played major minutes on a Euroleague team the past two seasons. He has already announced he'll be in the draft. Many scouts think he's the most NBA-ready European player out there and a likely top-10 pick."
That would still not be enough to convince me to select him with a lottery pick. We have seen few Dirk Nowitzki's enter the NBA. Many more have turned out like Milicic.
Detroit needs an impact player in the first round, and they cannot afford to waste a pick. I am not saying for sure that drafting Vesely would be a wasted pick, but neither would I ever deem it a safe one under any circumstances.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Chris Trotman/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is about potential. Sure, you draft on what you have seen out of players so far, but you also have to predict what they will be at the next level. There is no such thing as a sure thing, so every player entering the draft has potential. It is up to every team to determine who has the most potential to help lead their team in the future.
But when you have a player who has been forced to sit out for an entire season and has no college basketball experience, you really have to forecast a player's potential without as much to rely on in the evaluation process.
Enes Kanter of Kentucky is one of the best examples.
I say of Kentucky, but maybe saying Turkey would be a better description.
That is because Kanter was never allowed to play for the Wildcats. He was declared permanently ineligible to play in the NCAA as it was investigated that he received benefits as an amateur. Kentucky has found great success this season, but just think how dominant they could have been with him on the floor.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "The NCAA denied Kanter's bid to play for Kentucky this season, placing him in limbo all year. He's been hanging around Kentucky, working as a student-assistant coach, but the loss of playing time hurts. He'll spend the spring working with Michael Jordan's former trainer, Tim Grover, in Chicago in preparation for the draft. Most GMs still have him as a top-five or top-six pick. Great workouts could lift him even higher."
At 6'10'' and 255 pounds, Kanter would make an excellent replacement for Zydrunas Illgauskas with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He dominated some of the greatest collegiate players last year in the Nike Hoop Summit, and he is one of the more NBA ready players who will be in this year's draft class.
Kanter can play offense and defense and provides great energy on both ends of the court. He will be a very high pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, so all Cleveland has to worry about is someone taking Kanter before they pick. Depending on who else comes out early, they could consider taking him with their first pick, which could be the top spot overall.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Chris Trotman/Getty Images
In the 2011 NBA Draft, many players have used the 2011 NCAA Tournament to help improve their draft status. Some players will ride a trip to the Final Four right into the draft, and Terrence Jones of Kentucky is one of those players.
By helping the Wildcats make an improbable run to the Final Four, Jones has seen his draft stock soar even higher. He was projected as a borderline lottery pick throughout the season, but now he has all but assured himself of becoming a top 10 pick, if not top five, depending on which players declare themselves eligible.
Of course, Jones himself has to also declare, but that should be just a matter of time. After all, isn't that what most players who play for John Calipari do these days?
When they talk about 'one-and-done' players, they mean the Wildcats.
Chad Ford of ESPN points out that " Jones is one of the most versatile players in college basketball. He can play multiple positions. He can score inside and outside and is a good ball handler, rebounder and passer. Combine that with Jones' 7-2 wingspan and terrific athleticism and you have a terrific NBA prospect."
But is not all roses for Jones, as he has a tendency to struggle at times as well. Ford also makes note that "Jones is streaky. He has struggled with his shot in the second half of the season and has stumbled in some critical games for Kentucky. At times, he doesn't display the greatest body language or motor."
But he is just a freshman in college. His maturity will improve, and it is not as if we are talking about someone as immature as Demarcus Cousins. That former Wildcat may never grow up, but Jones has much more potential.
Prior to the 2011 NCAA Tournament, Ford said that "When Jones gets things rolling, he's one of the most dangerous players in the country. Early in the season, there was talk about him as a potential No. 1 pick. The past month, he has struggled to stay in the top 10. If he can help take Kentucky deep, he'll be a very high lottery pick this summer."
Well, I would certainly say that he has done his part in taking Kentucky deep, so he could now be a definite high lottery pick. He would be a perfect fir with the Milwaukee Bucks, who could use some help at the forward position. They already have a very strong backcourt, especially when Michael Redd returns and joins Brandon Jennings.
Jones could get the Bucks back into the playoffs next season.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is about various storylines. One of those will take place in North Carolina, when Charlotte Bobcats owner will look long and hard at Tar Heels center John Henson.
Henson has very good height and a great wingspan, but he needs to bulk up in order to play in the paint at the next level. He is a prolific shot blocker and averaged a double-double for the ACC champions this past season.
But he gets pushed around inside big bigger bodies who can score. Look at what Josh Harrelson did to him for Kentucky in the 2011 NCAA Tournament. And Harrelson is by no means a dominant player. Just think what someone like Zach Randolph would do against Henson in the NBA. He is simply too lean right now.
Chad Ford of ESPN seems to agree with me when it comes to some of Henson's downfalls, but makes sure to point out some positive attributes at the same time.
"It's hard not to love what he can do on the defensive end," says Ford. "The question for so many NBA scouts is, where is he going to get his offense from? He doesn't have a great perimeter game yet and shies away from contact inside. Henson could've had a number of big dunks against Michigan but instead fell away from the basket with a defender coming at him. That problem will be amplified in the NBA against bigger and stronger competitors. As talented as he is, most NBA teams think he should spend at least one more year in college to work on his body or his perimeter game."
Henson also had to be pulled toward the end of the game because he is a below average free throw shooter. That is something else he will need to improve to consistently remain on the floor at the next level.
The UNC big man would really be better served staying in school for one or two more seasons before joining the NBA, but if he does in fact declare early, it will be very hard for Jordan and the Bobcats to pass him up in the first round. He has the defensive shot blocking skills that you cannot teach.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Jamie Squire/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft features many talented big men who can score, but Marcus Morris of Kansas may be the most NBA ready right now.
The Golden State Warriors should put that theory to the test and select the Jayhawks big man in the first round.
The Warriors can score, but they struggle to rebound and play defense. Morris already possess the size and skills to defend some of the better NBA forwards.
NBADraftNet compares Morris to Al Harrington, which is not a negative assessment, but I feel that Morris has a chance to be even better than Harrington. What he can already do offensively and defensively makes him an excellent pick, especially for Golden State.
Chad Ford of ESPN said of Morris and his Jayhawks that "Kansas has the best front line in the NCAA. Marcus Morris is the best offensive prospect of the group. His ability to be equally effective with his back to the basket and on the perimeter is special."
Morris has the size that could help the Warriors improve immediately. He could eventually be a great complimentary player in the paint alongside David Lee. It may take him a year or two to reach that level, but Morris could help the Warriors reach the playoffs with a very young roster.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is all about finding that special player who can take your team to the elite stages of the NBA. Some need to replace one recently departed player, whether they left through free agency or a trade, while others are looking for someone who could replace a player from long ago.
The Utah Jazz have been looking for a seven footer who can score since the days of Mark Eaton. They may finally be able to find that in Donatas Motiejunas of Lithuania.
Utah acquired Derrick Favors in the Deron Williams trade, so they do not need a strong power forward. They need someone even taller.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "Motiejunas is an aggressive scorer in the paint."
He also said that of Motiejunas that" He's still a below-average rebounder and doesn't add much in the way of defense, but if Motiejunas keeps this up, he looks like a lock for the lottery. One NBA scout told me he could go much higher than that, comparing him to a young Pau Gasol. If the NBA lockout takes out some of the better underclassmen in the draft, the scout's high-lottery projection might be right."
Drafting a European player is always a risk. Some do not pan out, while many never even sign. But sometimes, you have to roll the dice on someone who is built like Motiejunas.
Right now, he is a seven foot tall power forward. But if he can add some muscle, he would be the ideal center in the NBA, and could fill a much needed role with the Jazz, especially if he can improve upon his rebounding skills.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Jamie Squire/Getty Images
In the 2011 NBA Draft, some teams will be looking for a centerpiece to their team, while others will be looking for the missing piece.
The Phoenix Suns may not be that close to competing for an NBA championship. but adding one of the best pure scorers in the draft pool could go a long ways in helping them get back into the playoffs.
Alec Burks is that player.
The Colorado Buffaloes shooting guard is one of the more underrated players in the country. Had he played at North Carolina, Duke, Kansas or Kentucky, he would be talked about as a top possible pick. But since Colorado did not even receive an invite to the 2011 NCAA Tournament, he is being discussed toward the bottom of the lottery picks.
But while he may be on the board when the Suns pick, he is talented enough to earn the rookie of the year award in 2011-2012. His offensive skills are that solid.
While he needs to improve on his jump shot, Burks could become a prolific scorer at the next level.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "When Burks is at his best, he's slicing through defenses and finishing at the basket. When he gets free, he can have huge games, and he'll probably need a few of those in the Big 12 tournament to convince NBA execs that he should be in the lottery conversation. As it stands, he's a mid to late first-round pick."
Burks could be a great backcourt mate in Phoenix along with Steve Nash. He could learn under Vince Carter for a season, and would probably then be ready to start in the league.
His shooting skills may leave a bit to be desired, but his scoring abilities more than make up for that to make him a solid draft pick.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Harry How/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is all about finding that special player who can take your team to the elite stages of the NBA. Some need to replace one recently departed player, whether they left through free agency or a trade. While others are looking for someone who could replace a legend.
The Houston Rockets are still looking to replace Clyde Drexler, Charles Barkley and Hakeem Olajuwon, and Kawhi Leonard of San Diego State could be that player.
Leonard has been one of the more breakthrough players of the past NCAA season, and his stock has skyrocketed because of his play. He led the Aztecs to a place where they had not been before.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that "He's still developing his game offensively, but when you watch him, it's hard not to see what makes him special. NBA scouts love guys with intangibles, and Leonard appears to have them."
Matthew Kamalsky of DraftExpress says that "A great deal of Leonard’s success, and much of the attention he’s receiving from the next level, can be attributed to his impressive physical profile and high energy level. Standing 6’7 with a huge wingspan and adequate physical strength for a wing, Leonard is not the most fluid player around, but there’s an effortlessness with which he moves in the open floor that is impressive to say the least."
Either way, Leonard will be a lottery pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. He used his collegiate career over the last couple of seasons to get him to the next level. He has all of the physical skills to succeed in the NBA, and would be a perfect fit for the Houston Rockets.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?
Jamie Squire/Getty Images
The 2011 NBA Draft is all about building around the players you have in place in order to improve your team. The Indiana Pacers have progressed greatly since the firing of Jim O'Brien, led by the emergence of Tyler Hansbrough.
Just think what the addition of Markieff Morris of Kansas could do to the Indiana Pacers' frontcourt.
While he does not receive as much media attention as his brother, Marcus, Markieff is very talented. He is more than capable of taking over a game.
Chad Ford of ESPN says that " Markieff Morris has improved his offensive game, though it's not quite equal to Marcus' yet. Markieff, however, is an inch taller and has proven to be a better rebounder and shot-blocker."
Ford goes on to say that "Marcus is more polished, while Markieff has a physical advantage that matters in the pros."
Morris had his breakout season with Kansas in his junior year, and he will use that to lift him to the next level. His size allows him to be able to play against all types of NBA players, and his offense will develop in the right situation. Indiana could be a great fit for him.
Morris can also step out and drain the occasional three pointer, but his game is best when he is facing the hoop. If he can work on developing his post game, he could become an excellent prospect at the next level.
For more on the draft and some possible first round selections, make sure to check out Bleacher Report Cavaliers Featured Columnist Jesse Dorsey, who previews the NBA Draft 2011: Has Jimmer Fredette Worked His Way Into the Top 10?



11 Comments
Loading comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete