NBA Draft 2012: Best- and Worst-Case Scenarios for Every NBA Team

With Harrison Barnes, John Henson and Kendall Marshall all declaring for the 2012 NBA draft, the time for predictions, projections and scenarios is officially upon us.

Teams have amped up the scouting, begun more critical evaluations and even ruled some players out. At this point in time, every team is looking for the best-case scenario.

Unfortunately, some teams may think what's best for them is actually the worst-case scenario. Here's an example of each direction all 30 teams could go in come draft day.

Atlanta Hawks' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Terrence Jones

If the basketball gods are in favor of the Atlanta Hawks' success, Kentucky forward Terrence Jones will fall into the Hawks' lap and give them the upgrade they desperately need at the 3.

Jones can shoot, penetrate, rebound, defend and pass. He also has a tendency to take over a game when his team needs him most.

If he can just improve his attitude and body language, there won't be a single player in the NBA who can get in his way.

Season Averages: 24.83 PER, 12.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.8 bpg, 1.3 spg

Atlanta Hawks' Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting a Big

The worst thing the Hawks could do at this point is bring in a 4 or a 5. In other words, there should be no chance in hell of the Hawks bringing in anything resembling a potential replacement for embattled superstar Josh Smith.

If they do, Smith's cries for a trade may only grow louder...

Boston Celtics' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Terrence Ross

Terrence Ross is a big, athletic 2 who can shoot, defend and get to the basket off his dribble. In other words, he's the perfect complement to Rajon Rondo.

While Ray Allen's potential re-signing isn't out of the question, the Celtics certainly need to make an upgrade at the 2. Avery Bradley is talented and had a coming-out party against the Washington Wizards, but to say a backcourt with a 6'2" shooting guard can win a title would be foolish.

Drafting Terrence Ross is the best-case scenario.

Season Averages: 20.86 PER, 15.3 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 1.3 spg, 0.9 bpg, 46 percent FG

Boston Celtics' Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting a Center Too High

The Boston Celtics have two first-round draft picks as well as two second-round draft choices. If they want to utilize them properly, they cannot take a center with their first pick.

The crop of centers is deep, so much so that the Celtics don't necessarily need to take a 5 with either of their first-round draft choices. From Gonzaga's Robert Sacre to Georgetown's Henry Sims, mid- to late-round centers are available in the second round. The difference between them and a player like Fab Melo or Festus Ezeli is less than you'd imagine.

Charlotte Bobcats' Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Anthony Davis

If you can find another player who has the talent to dominate the paint, knock down jump shots, dribble like a guard and block shots like it's nobody's business, let me know.

Once you've found him, tell him he needs to learn to utilize that talent. Yes, that was a shot at Perry Jones III.

With Anthony Davis on the roster, the turnaround period becomes expedited in a way that no other prospect on the board could possibly match. Davis is the answer to Charlotte's defensive woes, an aid to its offensive struggles and a marketable figure that would increase ticket sales. Hopefully, MJ23 gets lucky enough to draft AD23.

Season Averages: 35.71 PER, 14.3 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 1.1 apg, 4.6 bpg, 1.3 spg

Charlotte Bobcats' Worst-Case Scenario: Failing to Land the First Overall Pick

I'm not doubting the depth of this class; in fact, I don't think Anthony Davis will go down as the best player of this year's draft. However, the fact is the Charlotte Bobcats need an upgrade at nearly every position, and Davis would be able to contribute in more areas than any other prospect.

While landing a player like Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Harrison Barnes or Bradley Beal would certainly help, it's hard to imagine the Bobcats having as quick a turnaround period with those names. Furthermore, none of those names would create the shot-blocking tandem that Davis and Bismack Biyombo would.

The fact is defense not only wins championships but also makes the offense's job a whole lot easier. The Bobcats need Davis' help.

Bobcats' Team Rank: 87.6 points scored (last); 100.7 points allowed (28th); Rebound Diff. -6.1 (29th)

Chicago Bulls' Best-Case Scenario: Acquire Another Draft Choice

Right now, the Chicago Bulls are poised to receive the final pick of the first round and nothing else. Nothing.

While the Bulls are certainly a team built on depth, it would be foolish to assume they're fine without young acquisitions. For instance, key reserve John Lucas has an expiring contract, and the Richard Hamilton experiment has clearly failed to work out.

Adding depth through the draft wouldn't be a bad idea.

Chicago Bulls' Worst-Case Scenario: Taking a Player with Character Issues

The No. 1 reason the Chicago Bulls have had so much success is their team chemistry, something that most teams lack. As a result, no Bull is out for a statistical gain as they make the extra pass.

By drafting a player like Fab Melo, something Internet mock drafts have suggested, the Bulls could risk breaking up that unity.

Instead, the Bulls must avoid temptation and do what's most needed: taking the best possible fit with admirable character. Look for a player such as Vanderbilt's John Jenkins to sneak onto the Bulls' big board.

Cleveland Cavaliers' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Bradley Beal

Bradley Beal is one of the best jump shooters in the nation. He's also active without the basketball, has an NBA body, can handle the ball and is even solid on the defensive end. In other words, he's a dream pick for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

It's been quite some time since the Cavaliers have had a reliable 2, with Anthony Parker just the latest to fall short of even the most basic expectations. In fact, Parker hasn't scored higher than 10 points per game in a single season with the Cavaliers despite averaging between 24 and 29 minutes each year.

If Beal is available, this is a no-brainer. To pair him with Kyrie Irving would give the Cavaliers one of the most promising backcourts league-wide.

Season Averages: 21.17 PER, 14.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.4 spg

Cleveland Cavaliers' Worst-Case Scenario: Taking a Chance on Perry Jones III

I'm one of many who believe PJ3 could end up in Cleveland. That's unfortunate for Cleveland fans, as the acquisition would set them back further than it would move them forward.

Jones III has all the physical tools to be successful. He's 6'11", can handle the ball on the perimeter and can score both inside and out. The fact is, he just doesn't know how to utilize his talent. Until he does. there's too much risk involved in taking a chance on him.

In other words, PJ3 should stay in college for another year. It might teach him to take over games, which he's more than capable of doing but just afraid to actually do...

Season Averages: 21.95 PER, 13.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 1.3 apg

Dallas Mavericks' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Meyers Leonard

The Dallas Mavericks have quite a significant number of holes for a championship-caliber team, highlighted by a glaring need at the 5. Considering their starting center is Brendan Haywood, it's hard to argue that.

Considering both of the Zeller brothers are likely to be gone by the time the lottery is done and Patric Young is returning to school, there's only one player who they should be looking at: Illinois' Meyers Leonard.

Leonard is mobile, fearless and is constantly working at improving his game. While he may not be a franchise player, he's the type of talent who could start and make an impact at both ends of the floor. That's exactly what Dallas needs.

Season Averages: 24.02 PER, 13.6 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.9 bpg

Dallas Mavericks' Worst-Case Scenario: Coming Away with No First-Round Pick

As it stands right now, the Houston Rockets receive a top-20 protected pick from the Dallas Mavericks. If the Mavericks are to truly luck out, they'll finish inside of the top 20 teams in the NBA and end up with a draft choice.

Should the Mavericks fail to do so, the potential Deron Williams-to-Dirk Nowitzki combination might lack the luster it's expected. After all, a two-man team with no pieces around it is hard to win with.

Denver Nuggets' Best-Case Scenario: Perry Jones III Drops into Their Lap

Consider that the Denver Nuggets have three overall draft picks, including one currently poised to be in the late lottery. If that's the case, the tremendous fall of Perry Jones III should be something that Denver crosses its fingers for.

While I wouldn't suggest PJ3 for other teams, the Nuggets are about as low-risk as anyone when it comes to taking chances. The worst PJ3 would be for them is a more bashful version of the shoot-too-often Al Harrington.

Season Averages: 21.95 PER, 13.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 1.3 apg

Denver Nuggets' Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting Another Wing

I've seen some mock drafts that have listed the Nuggets as a contender for players including Kentucky's Terrence Jones and Baylor's Quincy Miller. My question is, why?

With Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler and rookie Jordan Hamilton all on the roster, why would you add more to the wing? Furthermore, Rudy Fernandez and Corey Brewer can both sub at the 3.

If the Nuggets are looking to waste a draft pick, though, they should go for it...

Detroit Pistons' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Jared Sullinger

The Detroit Pistons currently possess one of the premier centers in the NBA, Greg Monroe. As Dwight Howard's championship failures and Andrew Bynum's championship glory have shown us, the key to a center's success is a talented 4 alongside him.

Enter Jared Sullinger.

Sullinger is a bruising big man with no fear as he pummels his opponent with his massive lower body. While he's not the finesse player Monroe has proven to be, he's exactly what the Pistons need as the yin to Monroe's yang.

Season Averages: 30.39 PER, 17.6 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.2 spg, 1.0 bpg

Detroit Pistons' Worst-Case Scenario: Taking a Chance on McAdoo

While James Michael McAdoo has unlimited potential, I'm skeptical to call him a worthy top-10 draft pick. After all, a few impressive appearances with an average of 15 minutes per game is far from elite-prospect worthy.

For some reason, however, I have a gut feeling that the Pistons will take a chance on the freshman.

Season Averages: 14.77 PER, 15.6 mpg, 6.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 0.9 spg

Golden State Warriors' Best-Case Scenario: Lottery into the Lowest 7, Keep Pick

As of this moment, the Golden State Warriors are poised to go through the 2012 NBA season with a terrible record and no lottery pick to show for it. While the pick the Warriors acquired from the Spurs is nice, the best-case scenario would be to end up with a top-seven draft choice, thus keeping the protected pick they traded to Utah.

With that draft choice, I'd imagine the Warriors would be a prime candidate for "that team who took a chance on PJ3."

Golden State Warriors' Worst-Case Scenario: Losing Their Lottery Pick to Utah

Pretty self-explanatory here. If the Warriors receive no lottery pick, they'll have traded their franchise player away for an injury-prone center and shown an inability to put young pieces around him.

That's as bad as it gets.

Houston Rockets' Best-Case Scenario: Miss Playoffs, Mavericks Finish Strong

It's impossible to deny: The Houston Rockets need an upgrade at the center position.

Legendary big man Kevin McHale is excellent at picking out talented frontcourt players, with Al Jefferson just one example of his success. With Tyler Zeller, he'd have the mobile, finish-around-the-rim-type player that the Rockets have needed at the 5 since Yao Ming retired.

The fact is Tyler Zeller's potential selection is not why the Rockets should be excited. Instead, they should be thrilled at the prospect of a potential gift from the basketball gods: three first-round draft picks. THREE!

The Mavericks will need to finish strong, thus making the top-20 protected pick the Rockets received worth something in 2012. The Rockets would need to finish poorly, making their lottery-protected pick they traded to New Jersey something they hold on to.

This could be a big year in Houston...

Zeller's Season Averages: 30.34 PER, 16.3 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 1.5 bpg

Houston Rockets' Worst-Case Scenario: Dallas Mavericks Finish Weak, Keep Pick

Right now, the Houston Rockets are in prime position to build around point guard Kyle Lowry. They own what could potentially be three first-round draft picks and could virtually create the core of their team in just one year's time.

Unfortunately, two of those three draft picks have the potential to remain with another team.

As stated in the previous slide, the Rockets must miss the playoffs and the Mavericks must finish strong to possess those two picks. At least they're virtually certain to receive the Knicks' pick...

Indiana Pacers' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Royce White or Terrence Jones

As great as Danny Granger is, it's hard to imagine the Pacers going through this draft without adding some depth behind him. If that's what they are actually in search of, there are no better fits than Iowa State's Royce White and Kentucky's Terrence Jones.

Both are capable ball-handlers and facilitators from the perimeter, just as both can crash the boards and play in the post. While each has a developing jump shot, neither can be criticized for an inability to knock a few shots down.

Jones' Season Averages: 24.83 PER, 12.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.8 bpg, 1.3 spg

White's Season Averages: 22.05 PER, 13.4 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 5.0 apg, 1.2 spg, 0.9 bpg

Indiana Pacers' Worst-Case Scenario: Taking Another Big Man

If the Indiana Pacers are truly set on bringing back Roy Hibbert, they cannot alienate him by taking someone at his position.

While many fans don't even believe in the possibility Hibbert will be going elsewhere, teams with needs at the 5 are everywhere. With a huge space in the salary cap being made by Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett's departure, the Boston Celtics are a prime candidate.

If the Pacers want Hibbert out of Beantown, they must show they're committed to him.

Los Angeles Clippers' Best-Case Scenario: Draft Robbie Hummel

With no first-round draft picks, it's important that the Clippers make the most of their second-round selection. If they're smart, they'll take Robbie Hummel and add a scoring presence on the wing.

Hummel has struggled with injuries but is also one of the most highly-praised players in the nation in terms of talent and leadership skills. Hummel can shoot from anywhere on the court, is capable of taking it to the basket and is underrated on the defensive end.

While he won't lead the team in scoring, look at what Steve Novak has done for the Knicks and imagine the same in Tinseltown.

Season Averages: 25.62 PER, 16.4 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.2 bpg

Los Angeles Clippers' Worst-Case Scenario: It's Already Bad…

The Los Angeles Clippers don't have any first-round draft picks and at this point wouldn't see a second-round pick until the final 10 of the draft. This draft class might be deep, but how deep do you really think it is?

Los Angeles Lakers' Best-Case Scenario: Landing a First-Round Draft Choice

The Los Angeles Lakers entered the season with two first-round draft picks, something their aging unit could certainly benefit from. After the trade deadline, however, the Lakers possess none.

In an ideal world, the Lakers will be able to land a first-round draft pick in some sort of trade. With limited options in terms of trade value, the chances of such become quite slim.

Los Angeles Lakers' Worst-Case Scenario: Mr. Irrelevant

While Sacramento's Isaiah Thomas has offered hope of a change in the trend, the final pick in the NBA draft is, more often than not, a non-factor—hence the term "Mr. Irrelevant."

If the Lakers are stuck with the final pick as their only pick, the opportunity to add youth and energy will have been wasted. Thankfully, Ramon Sessions has been working out...

Memphis Grizzlies' Best-Case Scenario: Replace O.J. Mayo

With a deep class of shooting guards, starting with Florida's Bradley Beal and spanning to Vanderbilt's John Jenkins and beyond, it's hard to imagine the Grizzlies won't be searching for their 2 of the future. When you consider O.J. Mayo is hitting free agency, it's nearly impossible to imagine the Grizzlies doing anything but bringing in a 2. 

The players most likely to be targeted are Washington's Terrence Ross and Syracuse's Dion Waiters. Both possess adequate size and scoring ability and are solid on the defensive end of the floor.

Memphis Grizzlies' Worst-Case Scenario: More Frontcourt

I can understand why Memphis might feel they need to bolster its frontcourt, as Zach Randolph is aging and coming off an injury, but seriously? You're going to give up already with Marc Gasol, Randolph and Marreese Speights all under contract?

That seems counterproductive.

First and foremost, don't draft someone who you won't actually give playing time to. Second of all, don't draft for a position that isn't your greatest position of need.

Miami Heat's Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Fab Melo

I'm not a big fan of Fab Melo, as I feel his admiration from fans outweighs his play on the court. In the Miami Heat's case, however, there isn't a better fit than the Brazilian big man.

Melo is the athletic force in the paint that the Heat have needed on the defensive end for quite some time. He can block shots, is decent on the boards and has a big enough body to disrupt shots with his presence alone.

Season Averages: 20.40 PER, 25.4 mpg, 7.8 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.9 bpg

Miami Heat's Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting a Point Guard

For some strange reason, it's of common belief that the Miami Heat are weak at the point guard position. With defensive stalwart Mario Chalmers and promising rookie Norris Cole, I'm not sure how that notion can be justified.

The Heat's greatest need remains in the middle, where their best center is an undersized and underachieving Joel Anthony. In order to truly make the leap from annual contender to NBA champions, an improvement must be made at that position.

Milwaukee Bucks' Best-Case Scenario: Land Andrew Bogut's Replacement

The Milwaukee Bucks made as big of a splash as any team at the trade deadline, trading former first overall draft pick Andrew Bogut to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Monta Ellis and Ekpe Udoh. Between the Bucks' recent acquisitions and another pair of young forces, Brandon Jennings and Ersan Ilyasova, it appears Milwaukee is close to perennial contention.

All the Bucks need now is a replacement for Andrew Bogut.

They are involved in one of the deepest drafts of all time when it comes to big men availability. Between first-round prospects Andre Drummond, Cody Zeller and Meyers Leonard, there is plenty of talent available at the 5. In the second round, the crop isn't much thinner, as Fab Melo, Festus Ezeli and Robert Sacre highlight a deep class.

It's important that the Bucks make the proper moves to replace the Australian big man.

Milwaukee Bucks' Worst-Case Scenario: Add More Offense, Less Defense

The Milwaukee Bucks have gone on a full 180 since the trade deadline.

After defining themselves as a dominant defensive team that smothered opponents in the paint, the Bucks became one of the most explosive offenses in the NBA. Pairing Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis is sure to put some points on the board, but on the defensive end it could leave room for improvement.

As the Bucks decide who they'll take in the 2012 NBA draft, it's important they look at defense over offense. Otherwise, they'll simply recreate what Ellis played with in Golden State: an offensive juggernaut that can't stop the other team from scoring the basketball.

Minnesota Timberwolves' Best-Case Scenario: Draft William Buford

While he's certainly been underwhelming in the NCAA tournament, William Buford is one of the most complete players in the nation. He can shoot, penetrate and play physical defense and most of all is a born leader.

This is the type of player the young Timberwolves need.

Buford has been consistent throughout his four-year career, averaging 14.4 points in each of his last three seasons. What's important to note is that, although a tremendous scorer, he is far from selfish. He's often making the extra pass to find the open man, making his opponent's job even more difficult.

With the knowledge of Buford's tendency to pass the ball, although almost never passing up or missing an open shot, it's near-impossible to predict his next move. Ricky Rubio's dream.

Season Averages: 17.81 PER, 14.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.7 apg, 0.8 spg

Minnesota Timberwolves' Worst-Case Scenario: Just the One Pick

Right now, the Minnesota Timberwolves possess one draft pick: the second-round draft choice via the Oklahoma City Thunder. In case you haven't noticed, the Thunder are near the top of the standings.

Not too much to pick from at the bottom of the barrel, if you know what I mean.

New Jersey Nets' Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Damian Lillard

As the Nets make the transition from New Jersey to Brooklyn, it's important to bring in a player with star value. While the pickings are slim, point guard Damian Lillard has the combination of scoring and facilitating that can make a crowd go crazy.

You know, like Deron Williams has.

The two biggest hurdles with this pick will be the slim likelihood that he's still available and the Nets' irrational dedication to Deron Williams. How long will you let one player control your franchise?

Season Averages: 33.58 PER, 24.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 4.0 apg, 1.5 spg

New Jersey Nets' Worst-Case Scenario: Houston Rockets Miss the Playoffs

The Nets were poised to have a big draft, combining a top-five pick with a mid-round pick from Houston. Considering Houston is close to falling out of the playoffs and the top-five pick now belongs to Portland, the post-Deron Williams stage may last longer than Nets fans would have hoped for.

New Orleans Hornets' Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Thomas Robinson

Thomas Robinson is a high-character player who can do a little bit of everything. By a little bit, of course, I mean a whole lot of it.

Robinson is dominant in the post, has a quick first step on the perimeter and can even knock down a three-pointer or two if you give him the space. On the defensive end, he utilizes a high basketball IQ to fight his way into position on his man. He eliminates any size disadvantage he may suffer from by taking opponents out of their comfort zone.

For New Orleans, this is the type of player who could do for the Hornets what Drew Brees has done for the Saints. Robinson has a story of tragedy and triumph, something the city of New Orleans can relate to.

Season Averages: 28.53 PER, 17.7 ppg, 11.8 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.9 bpg

New Orleans Hornets' Worst-Case Scenario: Risking It on Andre Drummond

I like Andre Drummond a lot as a draft prospect, but if you're looking to rebuild a franchise, he's not the best building block. Strange, as I'd usually suggest building around your center.

The fact is Drummond is the type of high-IQ player who could potentially have a lengthy career. He's a player with the skill to start on any team, make an impact on both ends of the floor and positively influence those around him. He is not a franchise player, though.

With Thomas Robinson, Harrison Barnes and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist possibly available at this position, drafting Drummond would be foolish.

Season Averages: 22.15 PER, 28.4 mpg, 10.0 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2.7 bpg

New York Knicks' Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Will Barton

With Landry Fields poised to hit free agency, the best-case scenario would be to find his replacement. While Will Barton lacks what Fields has on defense, he's a big-time scorer who is relentless in attacking the rim.

Sounds like a solid complement to a potential defensive-minded free-agency signing.

Barton can shoot, penetrate and get out in transition as well as anyone. With his ability to finish above the rim and move without the basketball, Jeremy Lin's job as the Knicks' facilitator will become a whole lot easier.

That's if the Knicks can re-sign Linsanity...

Season Averages: 26.88 PER, 18.0 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.4 spg

New York Knicks' Worst-Case Scenario: Not Trading Up

Knicks fans may think they have everything they need, but news flash: They're wrong.

The Knicks have as many holes as any team in the league; they've just masked such deficiencies with star power and misplaced blame. Unless they trade up and enter the first round, these issues are more than likely to continue.

Oklahoma City Thunder's Best-Case Scenario: Landing John Henson

Don't think scouts weren't watching when John Henson left the UNC-Kansas game with yet another injury.

That leaves the opportunity open for Henson to fall as the surplus of big men alongside him suddenly rises above him. If that's the case, the Thunder should be crossing their fingers in hopes of drafting one of the best character players in this draft class.

Henson is a long, lengthy player who can crash the boards and score in the paint. He's also a solid defender who knows how to utilize his size.

While Serge Ibaka would remain the starter, Henson would be quite the valuable role player for as long as he wore a Thunder uniform.

Season Averages: 25.41 PER, 13.7 ppg, 9.9 rpg, 2.9 bpg

Oklahoma City Thunder's Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting a Point Guard

The Thunder are yet another example of a team that cannot bring discomfort to its expressive superstar. In this instance, it's Russell Westbrook.

We've all seen Westbrook's outbursts on and off the floor, so it's only fair to imagine he'd want nothing less than more competition at his position. If not him, though, don't disturb one of the best backup point guards in the game today: Eric Maynor.

Orlando Magic's Best-Case Scenario: Taking Dion Waiters

The Orlando Magic are in dire need of a scorer to complement Dwight Howard, and with Dion Waiters, they'd find just that.

Waiters is capable of scoring in the half court and transition, utilizing a relentless attack of the rim to produce high-efficiency points. He also has a developing mid-range game, creates turnovers and has the ever-elusive killer instinct.

While Jason Richardson would likely continue to start in Waiters' first year, the Syracuse guard would certainly see solid playing time and begin to develop a potent punch with Dwight Howard.

Season Averages: 26.29 PER, 24.1 mpg, 12.6 ppg, 2.5 apg, 2.3 rpg, 1.8 spg

Orlando Magic's Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting a Center

If you want Dwight Howard to feel comfortable in an Orlando Magic uniform, don't make the mistake of drafting his potential replacement.

The Magic are now fully involved in what can only be described as a major risk. Dwight Howard could potentially leave after the 2013 season, and Orlando would gain nothing in return, but it cannot be overly cautious. The Magic must build around Howard, not build for the post-Howard ages.

Philadelphia 76ers' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Arnett Moultrie

The Philadelphia 76ers are a young, deep team with as much promise as any unit in the NBA. They're also a team that could end up seeing quite a few key players walk in free agency.

Most notable is starting power forward Elton Brand.

In replacing Brand, it may not be a poor idea to add some athleticism to a grind-it-out front line. With that strategy deployed, Mississippi State's Arnett Moultrie becomes the perfect option.

Moultrie has long had the talent, but scouts feel he's yet to live up to his potential. After what can only be described as a well-rounded, dominant season, however, many scouts are beginning to believe again. The 76ers would luck out if they could acquire the 6'11" athlete.

Season Averages: 24.97 PER, 16.4 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.8 bpg, 0.8 spg

Philadelphia 76ers' Worst-Case Scenario: Replacing Lou Williams

Although Lou Williams is set to hit free agency, it's far from a foregone conclusion that he will decline any type of offer from the Philadelphia 76ers. If Philly wants to make sure that its Sixth Man of the Year candidate stays, it cannot attempt to replace him.

This is yet another example of a potential alienation via draft day.

Phoenix Suns' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Jeremy Lamb

When it comes to Jeremy Lamb, I'm not a big fan of his. His talent is off the charts, but he's constantly standing still on the offensive end and failing to aid his teammates in creating plays. Nevertheless, he is dominant with the ball in his hands.

Lamb is a long and lanky athlete who can shoot the basketball, penetrate and defend. Seems like a common theme nowadays, doesn't it?

The fact is the Phoenix Suns currently lack any type of offensive explosiveness at the 2. Quite frankly, they have for a while. In adding Lamb, all of that could potentially change.

Season Averages: 22.05 PER, 17.7 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.2 spg

Phoenix Suns' Worst-Case Scenario: Taking Perry Jones III

This time, it's not actually about PJ3; it's about Markieff Morris.

Markieff Morris has quietly had one of the best seasons of any rookie in the league. While he's been far from Kyrie Irving productive, he's scored and rebounded the basketball at quite an efficient rate. Building a team around Morris and Marcin Gortat doesn't seem like such a bad idea.

Unfortunately, he may have to take a backseat to another vaunted young player: Perry Jones III. If that's the case, the Suns would be making a dire mistake and would set their team back quite a bit.

Portland Trail Blazers' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Drummond, Kendall Marshall

The Trail Blazers' two biggest needs are at the 5 and the point, where Greg Oden's departure signaled a time for change and Raymond Felton's struggles have signaled nothing but disappointment.

In adding Andre Drummond, the Blazers would give LaMarcus Aldridge an efficient player who could take the workload off the All-Star on the defensive end of the floor. Drummond is also active on the offensive glass, helping create second-chance scoring opportunities.

As for Marshall, he may be the best facilitator in this entire draft class. He has proven to be the spark for the Tar Heels' potent offense and at the NBA level could do the same for Portland.

Drummond's Season Averages: 22.15 PER, 28.4 mpg, 10.0 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2.7 bpg

Marshall's Season Averages: 16.50 PER, 3.5 AST/TO, 8.1 ppg, 9.8 apg, 1.2 spg

Portland Trail Blazers' Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting Austin Rivers

Austin Rivers is one of the most overrated draft prospects I have ever seen.

He lacks a position, plays selfish basketball and is more of a detriment to his team than a complement. Nevertheless, there is a very good chance that Rivers ends up in a Portland Trail Blazers uniform.

Season Averages: 16.85 PER, 15.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.0 spg

Sacramento Kings' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Jared Sullinger

Could you imagine the powerhouse post game the Sacramento Kings would possess with Jared Sullinger and DeMarcus Cousins lining up side by side? I'd like to see a player defend those two and walk home without some bruises.

Sullinger has one of the best minds for the game in this draft class and overcomes his size disadvantage by remaining a step ahead of the competition. He utilizes his massive lower body to gain position on any opponent and pulls rebounds down with his massive 7'2" wingspan.

He and DMC would be a tough duo to contain.

Season Averages: 30.39 PER, 17.6 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.0 bpg

Sacramento Kings' Worst-Case Scenario: Adding Another Guard

If the Kings were to draft yet another guard, they'd have four starting-caliber players making up a much-too-crowded backcourt.

Don't put it past them.

They've already drafted two point guards in one year (2011), signed a shooting guard to a mega-deal (Marcus Thornton) and played Tyreke Evans at every position besides his natural one: the 2. This is a team that's building towards...well, I'm not quite sure.

San Antonio Spurs' Best-Case Scenario: Drafting Jae Crowder

Jae Crowder is a hard-working, relentless player who can score from the perimeter and in the paint. He's also a pit bull when it comes to loose balls, doing anything he can to get his hands on them. In other words, he's the perfect man for the Spurs' 3 spot.

Currently, the Spurs are stuck with a tandem of 2-guards playing the 3 and a rookie who is better fit as an undersized 4. If the Spurs are smart, they'll postpone Tim Duncan's replacement until they have a first-round draft choice.

Besides, Crowder has made living as an undersized 4 work all season; who's to say he can't spend a little time here and there at the 4 for the Spurs?

Season Averages: 28.73 PER, 17.5 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.5 spg, 1.0 bpg

San Antonio Spurs' Worst-Case Scenario: Second-Round Tim Duncan Replacement

As much as the Spurs need to start looking to the future at the 4, they'd be much better off with a short-term free-agency acquisition than a late-second-round squandering. After all, the best 4 projected to be available at that point is the undersized Ricardo Ratliffe from Missouri.

Not the best player to pick as Timmy's protege.

Toronto Raptors' Best-Case Scenario: Landing Harrison Barnes

While many in Toronto would like to see Michael Kidd-Gilchrist fall into their laps, it would be much more ideal to add the safest pick in the draft: Harrison Barnes.

Barnes can shoot, is a lockdown defender and has a sky-high basketball IQ. Alongside DeMar DeRozan, who is a freak athlete with a developing jump shot, Barnes would be the intelligent mind that the Raptors need on the perimeter.

He'd also create quite an impressive high-low game with Jonas Valanciunas and Andrea Bargnani.

Season Averages: 22.70 PER, 17.1 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 1.1 apg, 1.1 spg

Toronto Raptors' Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting Andre Drummond

For some reason, some have the Raptors projected to take Andre Drummond. Why they'd do that with Jonas Valanciunas headed to town next season is beyond me.

The fact is the Raptors' questionable history with the NBA draft makes this far from impossible. In fact, it may be more likely than we'd expect. Regardless, it's something the Raptors must avoid.

Utah Jazz's Best-Case Scenario: Landing Point and 3 of the Future

While Devin Harris has finally elevated his level of play and Gordon Hayward has shown some promise, to think that these two are players to build a franchise around would be foolish—so much so that passing up on an opportunity to upgrade at both positions would be quite a mistake with two lottery picks.

Ideally, the Jazz would look at Kendall Marshall and Quincy Miller.

Marshall is arguably the best facilitator in this draft class, and Miller is capable of making an impact on both ends of the floor. He's also athletic enough to run out in transition, something the Jazz could utilize as they attempt to spread the court for their numerous bigs.

Utah Jazz's Worst-Case Scenario: Drafting Another Big

If the Jazz were to draft yet another big man, a common theme in almost every draft, the crowded frontcourt would hit overload.

With Al Jefferson, Derrick Favors, Enes Kanter and Paul Millsap all vying for playing time, it's already hard enough to juggle potential, talent and development. To add another name into the mix would be quite detrimental to the Jazz's potential as a franchise.

Washington Wizards' Best-Case Scenario: Taking Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

The Washington Wizards are a young team with the potential to dominate in transition, the half court and on the defensive end of the floor. This all hinges on the development of John Wall and the proper utilization of draft picks to place a winning unit around him.

Enter Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

At the beginning of season, I was one of many who thought MKG was limited to scoring in transition and opportunistic defense. The fact is he's not. Instead, Kidd-Gilchrist is a very patient, intelligent defender who creates scoring chances with his timed and low-risk attempts at the ball.

On the offensive end, he can score off his dribble and has seen his jump shot grow leaps and bounds since the beginning of the season. If the Wizards are looking for their Westbrook-Durant combination, they may have it in the two Kentucky alums.

As for Jan Vesely, his transition to the 4 should be easy enough to make due to his size and finesse play.

Season Averages: 21.94 PER, 12.0 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.0 spg, 0.9 bpg

Washington Wizards' Worst-Case Scenario: Starting to Win

The more the Wizards win, the less of a chance they have to land solid placement in the 2012 NBA draft. In other words, keep on losing.

The Washington Wizards have an opportunity to pair a first overall draft choice with a top-five draft pick, something many teams don't receive the privilege of. They must do all they can to take advantage of this opportunity.