2012 NBA Draft: Milwaukee Bucks' Early Mock Draft

Despite sitting just one game behind the New York Knicks in the race for the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks are one of the weakest teams in the NBA.

The Bucks' depth is limited, their best player is constantly injured and their efforts on defense are constantly undermined by an inability to score their own points. Fortunately for the Bucks, they have two draft picks that could help change their fortunes.

With March Madness certain to create new stars, the Milwaukee Bucks must begin to evaluate prospects before singular success determines draft stock. For their fans and scouts alike, I've taken the initiative to do just that.

First Round, Pick 9: Jared Sullinger, Power Forward, Ohio State Buckeyes

In terms of skill in the low post, there isn't a single player in this draft who can do what Jared Sullinger does.

With a wide array of post moves and hook shots, Sullinger is as tough as anyone to defend down low. While he doesn't play above the rim, he is the best in the nation at fighting for position and using his body to create scoring opportunities.

On the defensive end, Sullinger makes up for being undersized with his massive lower body. He's constantly utilizing his arms and body to gain leverage on an opponent, boxing them out and grabbing rebound after rebound.

If the Bucks are looking for an all-around compliment for Andrew Bogut, it gets no better than Jared Sullinger. Especially considering Ersan Ilyasova has an expiring contract...

Season Averages: 17.5 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 1.2 spg, 0.9 bpg

Second Round, Pick 39: Evan Fournier, Shooting Guard, France

Evan Fournier is a player who many outside of Europe may not have heard of. For the NBA scouts who have seen his game, however, he's a player they are very familiar with.

Fournier is a long and tall shooting guard who excels in driving the lane and using the glass to pick up two. With Brandon Jennings alongside him, he'll be able to show off his automatic mid-range game.

While Fournier may not have the name value of past European prospects, he has surpassed the names you may know. Between his excellent body control and poise in traffic, Fournier is the type of second-round draft pick who down the line could be considered a steal.