2012 NBA Mock Draft: How the Kentucky Underclassmen Reshape the Draft Class

Much has changed when it comes to the 2012 NBA Draft. Big names have declared, shocking names have made the leap, and a few first-rounders have taken their names out of the hat.

And then some group of underclassmen known as the Kentucky Wildcats just made the draft a little more interesting.

As expected, the entire starting five of the national champion Kentucky Wildcats will be heading to the NBA. That includes freshmen Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Marquise Teague, as well as sophomores Terrence Jones and Doron Lamb. All five could go in the first round.

In order to placate the minds of NBA fans community-wide, I've taken it upon myself to break down the 2012 NBA Draft pick by pick. Some will surprise, some will seem obvious, but at the end of the day, all will be franchise-changing selections.

Enjoy.

1. Charlotte Bobcats: Anthony Davis, Kentucky Wildcats

Player Traits: Forward—Freshman—6'10"—220 pounds—7'4" wingspan

This pick has not and, barring unforeseen circumstances, will not change.

The 2012 Naismith Award winner did everything he could to assure his status as the first overall draft choice, dominating a game that he made just one field goal in. How, you ask? Try 16 rebounds, five assists, six blocks and three steals.

There's no question about who is going first overall come June.

Season Averages: 35.71 PER, 14.2 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 1.3 APG, 4.7 BPG, 1.4 SPG

2. Washington Wizards: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Kentucky Wildcats

Player Traits: Small Forward—Freshman—6'7"—210 pounds—6'11" wingspan

Between the Final Four and the national-championship game, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist showed how limited he can be on the offensive end of the floor. He also displayed dominance and brilliant anticipation on defense.

The question is yours to answer: Is MKG worth the second overall draft choice? Fan opinion would be yes, and at this point, so would that of a general manager.

In watching film of the Washington Wizards, it's become more and more clear to me that Jan Vesely is more comfortable at the 4 than his statistics would show. His height advantage gives him comfortability almost every night, but it's his low-post skills that have him built for it. That opens the door for MKG to play alongside Chris Singleton at the 3.

Season Averages: 21.94 PER, 11.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG

3. New Orleans Hornets: Thomas Robinson, Kansas Jayhawks

Player Traits: Power Forward—Junior—6'9"—237 pounds—7'1" wingspan

I cannot put enough stress on the importance of character when the New Orleans Hornets pick their franchise centerpiece. With the tragedy-turned-triumph story of Thomas Robinson, as well as that of the city of New Orleans, there is no better fit in that department.

On the court, the fit is just as nice.

Thomas Robinson's will to win is simply phenomenal. He powered his team back in the Final Four as they shocked Ohio State. Then, Robinson nearly led the Jayhawks to a comeback victory against Kentucky in the national-championship game. If that's not enough, he registered 18 points and 17 rebounds against the best interior team in the nation.

Draft him by any means necessary, New Orleans.

Season Averages: 28.53 PER, 17.7 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.9 BPG

4. Sacramento Kings: Terrence Jones, Kentucky Wildcats

Player Traits: Forward—6'8"—244 pounds—7'3" wingspan

Terrence Williams' emergence at the 3 has been a pleasant surprise, but it's not enough to mask the Kings' dire need of an upgrade on the wing. Furthermore, Sacramento seems to enjoy drafting elite-level talent from Kentucky that displays questionable body language.

Yes, I'm talking to you, DeMarcus Cousins.

In bringing in Terrence Jones, the Kings would acquire the most well-rounded wingman in this draft class. While MKG has garnered all of the media attention, the fact that Jones stepped back from his role as the Kentucky superstar in order to acclimate to a team-oriented system speaks volumes to his character—even if his expressions show immaturity.

In terms of ability, Jones can defend multiple positions, facilitate like a guard, score from the post and even knock down jump shots with relative ease. If we're basing this on talent alone, Jones is top-pick worthy.

Season Averages: 24.83 PER, 12.3 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.8 BPG, 1.3 SPG

5. Cleveland Cavaliers: Bradley Beal, Florida Gators

Player Traits: Shooting Guard—Freshman—6'5"—195 pounds—6'8" wingspan

This is the absolute best-case scenario for the Cleveland Cavaliers, as they look to acquire their first reliable 2 since Craig Ehlo. Seriously, don't try calling Ricky Davis reliable.

The current situation sees Daniel Gibson, who would be undersized for a point guard, and Anthony Parker, who hasn't averaged double-figure scoring since arriving in Cleveland, manning the 2. Bradley Beal has adequate size, a long wingspan, a beautiful jump shot and the ability to create with and without the basketball in his hands.

Alongside Kyrie Irving, Beal would be a favorite to win Rookie of the Year. More importantly, Beal would give the Cavaliers one of the most well-rounded back courts in all of professional basketball. The post-LeBron era is looking quite bright.

Season Averages: 21.17 PER, 14.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG

6. Portland Trail Blazers (via Nets): Andre Drummond, Connecticut Huskies

Player Traits: Center—Freshman—6'11"—275 pounds— 7'5" wingspan

With the Greg Oden experiment officially over, the Portland Trail Blazers must officially move on and draft a new franchise center. Fortunately for the Blazers, selecting Andre Drummond would not be a star-potential pick. Instead, Drummond would offer Portland a defensively stout player in the middle who can offer 30-plus intelligent and efficient minutes.

While some do, in fact, have lofty expectations for Drummond, I feel it's important to acknowledge the importance of a solid player. While everyone is looking for a star, Drummond is the type of player whose basketball IQ, body and playing style could make him a consistent starter for five-to-10 years. He'd also be the Blazers' best interior defender as soon as he steps on the floor.

With LaMarcus Aldridge more than capable of scoring 30 points on any given evening, Drummond's defense would be the perfect complement down low. He's an excellent shot-blocker who crashes the boards and plays physical on his man. He's also a reliable help defender, something Aldridge has proved he needs.

Season Averages: 22.15 PER, 10.0 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 2.7 BPG

7. Toronto Raptors: Harrison Barnes, North Carolina Tar Heels

Player Traits: Small Forward—Sophomore—6'8"—210 pounds—6'11" wingspan

Harrison Barnes is the quintessential draft choice for Toronto, as the Raptors aim to complement DeMar DeRozan with a capable shooter and defender. While I'm sure some would have loved to see Michael Kidd-Gilchrist go here, there is no better fit than Barnes.

Barnes' basketball IQ has been praised by coaches and scouts alike, as have his leadership qualities and play in the clutch. While his NCAA tournament was not one to remember, he displayed a well-rounded skill set over the span of his two-year career that cannot be omitted.

Between his lockdown defense and smooth jump shot, Barnes is the type of two-way player that coaches dream of. He's also a talented ball-handler, although he does struggle to create shots for himself. Thankfully for Barnes, playing alongside Jose Calderon should eliminate that as an issue. 

Season Averages: 22.70 PER, 17.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.1 APG, 1.1 SPG

8. Detroit Pistons: Jared Sullinger, Ohio State Buckeyes

Player Traits: Power Forward—Sophomore—6'9"—280 pounds—7'2" wingspan

The Detroit Pistons are in need of a bruising big man who commands attention on the low block, thus easing the workload for Greg Monroe. That's exactly what Ohio State's Jared Sullinger would offer the Pistons as he backs his massive frame into the paint and utilizes a beautiful baby hook for an easy two.

What's most underrated about Sullinger's game is his defense. In the low-post, Sullinger is as good as any at utilizing quick hands to force turnovers and block shots. He's also one of the best in terms of fighting for position, as he utilizes his massive lower body to box out any opponent. His long arms bring in just about every rebound that comes his way, making him an all-around menace the Pistons cannot pass on.

As for how he and Monroe would play side-by-side, Sullinger's brute is the perfect complement to Monroe's finesse. While neither are at the level of these two just yet, this is the type of combination that could rival Gasol and Bynum.

Season Averages: 30.39 PER, 17.5 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG

9. Utah Jazz (via Warriors): Damian Lillard, Weber State Wildcats

Player Traits: Point Guard—Junior—6'2"—185 pounds

Damian Lillard is widely considered the best point-guard prospect in this draft class, and it's not hard to see why. Lillard scores like Monta Ellis, but sees the floor like a pure point guard. He's also one of the quickest players in the nation, something that players such as Kyrie Irving and Brandon Knight have shown can translate well to the NBA.

In Utah, there is no need greater than at the point. While Devin Harris' play has improved in the second half of the season, it's clear that he's not the right fit. Lillard, meanwhile, kills two birds with one stone as he brings his perimeter shooting and pick-and-roll mastery to Utah.

Season Averages: 33.58 PER, 24.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.5 SPG

10. New Orleans Hornets (via Wolves): Kendall Marshall, North Carolina Tar Heels

Player Traits: PG—Sophomore—6'4"—188 pounds

According to ESPN's Chad Ford, general managers league-wide fear that next year's point-guard class is far too thin to pass up on the opportunity to snag one in 2012. Expect the New Orleans Hornets to exemplify that concern with this pick.

After drafting a true franchise player, Thomas Robinson, with their first pick, the Hornets need just one more thing to truly move forward in the post-Paul era: a replacement at the point-guard position. Fortunately for this unnamed New Orleans team, the best facilitator in the nation is still available.

North Carolina's Kendall Marshall showed how valuable he was to the Tar Heels when UNC nearly lost to Ohio and simply couldn't close out against Kansas. More importantly than the Tar Heels' inability to win without him, however, is how versatile he's become. On top of his status as an excellent passer, he's improved his perimeter shooting and is an excellent defender.

Season Averages: 16.50 PER, 8.1 PPG, 9.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 3.48 A/TO ratio

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Tony Wroten Jr., Washington Huskies

Player Traits: PG—Freshman—6'5"—205 pounds

Utilizing the same logic as displayed in the Hornets' pick, the Portland Trail Blazers will not wait for a second-round point guard. Instead, they will take one of the most physically gifted point guards scouts have ever seen: Tony Wroten Jr.

Wroten is well above-average in terms of height, standing in at 6'5". He's also extremely athletic, displaying overwhelming quickness and a powerful leap. While his jump shot must improve, his court vision and passing ability make up for anything his scoring leaves to be desired.

In Portland, Wroten Jr. would offer a major upgrade over the current point-guard situation. While Raymond Felton has played well as of late, he likely sealed his fate with his play earlier in the season.

Season Averages: 21.07 PER, 16.0 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.9 SPG

12. Milwaukee Bucks: Tyler Zeller, North Carolina Tar Heels

Player Traits: Center—Senior—7'0"—250 pounds—7'1" wingspan

The Milwaukee Bucks shipped out Andrew Bogut and received a defensive-inept Monta Ellis in return. In order to reestablish themselves as one of the Eastern Conference's elite defenses, the Bucks will need to find the long-term replacement for the former first overall draft choice.

Enter Tyler Zeller.

While Zeller is far from a defensive guru, he is a seven-footer who crashes the boards and blocks shots. He also has a much higher ceiling than any of the centers currently on the Bucks' roster, making his selection almost elementary. Hard to imagine the Bucks will pass up on Tyler with his younger brother Cody now off of the board.

Season Averages: 30.33 PER, 16.3 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 1.5 BPG

13. Utah Jazz: Jeremy Lamb, Connecticut Huskies

Player Traits: Shooting Guard—Sophomore—6'5"—185 pounds—7'0" wingspan

The Utah Jazz added the point guard of their future, and with their second pick of the first round, they'd be smart to find themselves a perimeter shooter to complement him. More importantly, it'd behoove the Jazz to find themselves a player to alternate with current rookie Alec Burks as the starter or sixth man.

While Connecticut's Jeremy Lamb disappointed with his inability to move without the basketball, as well as his tendency to disappear when the game matters most, there is no denying his talent. He's an excellent shooter, a lockdown defender and has the capability to play above the rim. Furthermore, he's an absolute freak when it comes to his athleticism and body.

Despite standing at an admirable 6'5", Lamb has a wingspan of seven feet. This enables him to dominate almost any opponent on the defensive end, as well as disrupt any passing lane.

Season Averages: 22.05 PER, 17.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.2 SPG

14. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Perry Jones III, Baylor Bears

Player Traits: Power Forward—Sophomore—6'11"—235 pounds—7'2" wingspan

While many expect the Brooklyn Nets to re-sign power forward Kris Humphries, it must be noted that he will be a free agent after this season. Finding some security at the 4 has to be a goal for the Nets, as does finding a star player for their new home. Fortunately, Perry Jones III could very well drop to this position.

While PJ3 has Top 5 talent, he has underwhelmed in every sense of the word. While Chad Ford reports that scouts are afraid to pass up on him, he also stated that they're worried about taking a chance on him.

For the Nets, there is no reason to pass up on PJ3. He's a low-risk pick at this point in the draft, and with a need for a franchise player, has the talent to be a high-reward prospect. He has the physical tools to be an excellent scorer, as well as a dominant shot-blocker. He can also crash the boards, thus making his status as a franchise player reasonable to expect.

Season Averages: 21.95 PER, 14.0 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.8 SPG

15. Houston Rockets (via Knicks): Arnett Moultrie, Mississippi State Bulldogs

Player Traits: Power Forward—Junior—6'11"—225 pounds—7'1" wingspan

Arnett Moultrie is a standout athlete, a dominant rebounder and efficient scorer. He's also been on NBA scouts' radars since he left high school, making him a threat to come off the board in the lottery. Fortunately for Houston, he's available with this pick.

Moultrie has jaw-dropping leaping ability, guard-like quickness and is capable of scoring from the paint and perimeter. While he's historically underwhelmed with his production, he actually put those skills to use in 2012, when he averaged double-digit scoring and rebounding.

In Houston, Moultrie would be an excellent fit in the Rockets' frontcourt. Aside from the undersized Luis Scola, the Rockets don't have much of a scoring threat up front, making Moultrie a perfect fit. He'd likely see relatively low minutes, but is likely to learn from Marcus Morris' mistakes as he establishes himself as a potential franchise player.

Season Averages: 24.97 PER, 16.4 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 BPG, 0.8 SPG

16. Philadelphia 76ers: John Henson, North Carolina Tar Heels

Player Traits: Power Forward—Junior—6'11"—220 pounds—7'4" wingspan

The 76ers have a surplus of talent in the frontcourt, but when it comes down to it, each has a significant flaw holding them back. Whether it's Elton Brand's age or LaVoy Allen's size, each gives up something to the best possible fit for Philly: UNC's John Henson.

Henson is a long 6'11", boasting a 7'4" wingspan and elite leaping ability. He's also a respected locker-room leader, offering high character to a young Philadelphia squad. As long as he continues to display a non-stop motor, those characteristics could make for quite a lengthy career.

What's most important for Henson's fit in Philadelphia is his ability as a defender. Henson utilizes his size well, blocking shots and snaring rebounds with ease. The Sixers just need to make sure he adds some muscle to his lanky frame.

Season Averages: 25.41 PER, 13.7 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.3 APG, 2.9 BPG

17. Phoenix Suns: Austin Rivers, Duke Blue Devils

Player Traits: Guard—Freshman—6'4"—199 pounds—6'8" wingspan

As much as the Phoenix Suns need to find Steve Nash's long-term replacement, they also need to draft a legitimate No. 1 scorer. Due to this fact, the Suns will do what every basketball fan fears their franchise would do: draft Austin Rivers.

Rivers has the talent to be an elite player; he can score from the perimeter and finish around the rim with flash and finesse. He also possesses impenetrable confidence and the ever-elusive killer instinct, something many scouts are thrilled to see in a young player. While I could write this entire slide with his negative qualities, I'll leave it at this: The Suns must make sure that confidence doesn't turn into arrogance.

In Phoenix, Rivers' excellent ball-handling may be enough for Steve Nash to take him under his wing. Should Nash decide to depart come free agency, though, Rivers is destined to be an undersized 2.

Season Averages: 16.85 PER, 15.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.0 SPG

18. Houston Rockets (via Mavericks): Terrence Ross, Washington Huskies

Player Traits: Shooting Guard—Sophomore—6'6"—190 pounds

The Houston Rockets will have to acknowledge that their relationship with Kevin Martin isn't working out, at some point, so why not start with a viable replacement?

Washington's Terrence Ross possesses ideal height, a killer jump shot and a very quick first step. He also plays selfless basketball, but is never afraid to take a shot. More importantly, it's quite rare that he doesn't make that very shot.

In Houston, Ross would likely spend a year behind Martin. In year one, Ross would be able to display his underrated defensive prowess as he picks up steals, rebounds and blocks in bundles. He'll also be able to step in as, arguably, the Rockets' best shooter. Between he and Chase Budinger, the Rockets' perimeter would be quite explosive.

Season Averages: 20.86 PER, 16.4 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.9 BPG

19. Denver Nuggets: Dion Waiters, Syracuse Orange

Player Traits: SG—Sophomore—6'4"—215 pounds

Cautious fans of the Denver Nuggets, take this statement in as positive a way as you can: I see quite a bit of J.R. Smith in Dion Waiters' playing style. Fortunately, I don't see the same inconsistency.

With a chip on his shoulder, but equally as respectful, Waiters was one of the nation's most exciting scorers, dominating both in transition and the half court. He is more than capable of finishing above the rim, utilizing his quickness and explosive leaping ability to get to the hoop. He also showed drastic improvements in his jump shot as the season progressed.

In Denver, Waiters would fill a big need: No. 1 scorer. While Danilo Gallinari could certainly develop into that role, Waiters is a pure scorer who can put up big points in small minutes. This is exactly what the Nuggets need in order to go from playoff contender to title contender.

Season Averages: 26.29 PER, 12.6 PPG, 2.5 APG, 2.3 RPG, 1.8 SPG

20. Memphis Grizzlies: Fab Melo, Syracuse Orange

Player Traits: Center—Sophomore—7'0"—274 pounds—7'3" wingspan

Back-to-back Syracuse Orange will go off the board here, with Melo bringing the Memphis Grizzlies what they've desperately needed: a defensive presence in the paint that isn't Marc Gasol. While he is far from well-rounded, he gets the job done on D, and that's all the Grizzlies need.

What's most important about this draft choice is that Melo has displayed a capability to contribute in small doses. While most big men will need a high volume of minutes to contribute, Melo could potentially lead all rookies in blocked shots despite playing anywhere between 10 and 20 minutes.

Season Averages: 20.40 PER, 7.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.9 BPG

21. Boston Celtics: Meyers Leonard, Illinois Fighting Illini

Player Traits: Center—Sophomore—7'0"—240 pounds—7'3" wingspan

The Boston Celtics' No. 1 need is at the 5, thus making Illinois' Meyers Leonard the obvious pick. Leonard is mobile, physical and one of the better big men in terms of scoring in the paint. Whether finishing above the rim or utilizing the glass, Leonard has shown an ability to get the job done.

In Boston, Leonard would be the perfect fit. Rajon Rondo is likely to get out in transition even more next season, as he and Avery Bradley have become the Celtics' premier one-two punch. Due to Leonard's ability to run the floor and score, this makes him the more attractive pick between he and Syracuse's Fab Melo.

Season Averages: 24.02 PER, 13.6 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.9 BPG

22. Atlanta Hawks: Royce White, Iowa State Cyclones

Player Traits: Small Forward—Sophomore—6'8"—240 pounds

For those hoping for a family reunion, Marquis Teague just won't be the man taken with this pick. Instead, Atlanta will take on one of the most well-rounded prospects in this draft class: Iowa State's Royce White.

White is an excellent ball-handler, a capable low-post threat and a respectable mid-range scorer. He's also a phenomenal passer for his position, has an NBA-ready body and crashes the boards. In other words, he does everything an NBA team could ask for.

In Atlanta, White could potentially replace Marvin Williams. His defense is quite similar to the level of Williams', while his offensive output is likely to be much more well-rounded. This is a no-brainer for Atlanta.

Season Averages: 22.05 PER, 13.4 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.9 BPG

23. Orlando Magic: Marquise Teague, Kentucky Wildcats

Player Traits: Point Guard—Freshman—6'2"—178 pounds—6'7" wingspan

Jeff Teague's younger brother isn't much different from the elder: he has unstoppable quickness, loves to push the tempo and can score from anywhere on the floor. He also has a tendency to play sloppy ball, turning the ball over, but rarely losing his cool. Nevertheless, he's an excellent fit in Orlando.

The Magic are in need of a true franchise player to keep Dwight Howard in town. While Teague may not reach that level, he's the type of franchise-changing player who could do the trick.

Teague will bring a level of energy and excitement to the Magic that has been missing since the 2009 season. He will display the flash that brings crowds to their feet, selflessness that will create scoring opportunities for teammates and hard work that will influence his older teammates. Furthermore, Teague will not settle for anything less than greatness; this is what Orlando needs.

Season Averages: 12.41 PER, 10.0 PPG, 4.8 APG, 2.5 RPG, 0.9 SPG

24. Boston Celtics (via Clippers): Jeffery Taylor, Vanderbilt Commodores

Player Traits: Small Forward—Senior—6'7"—225 pounds

Jeffery Taylor can lock down anyone on the perimeter. He can also finish with the best of them in transition. In other words, he's Doc Rivers and Rajon Rondo's dream come true.

Taylor has made tremendous strides with his jump shot, something that Paul Pierce is certain to aid him in improving. Furthermore, he's excellent at finishing above the rim and is widely considered to be one of the best pure athletes in this draft class. This would bring a level of big-play ability to the TD Garden that is currently lacking.

While some may not want to bring in a 3, Paul Pierce's comments about retirement should cause nothing short of preparation for the future. Taylor is a potential game-changer and should not be overlooked.

Season Averages: 24.21 PER, 16.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.3 SPG

25. Indiana Pacers: Moe Harkless, St. John's Red Storm

Player Traits: Guard/Forward—Freshman—6'8"—190 pounds

In terms of talent and upside, many consider Moe Harkless to be in the upper echelon of players in this draft class. Question marks about his inexperience, motor and shooting are just too hard to overlook.

Nevertheless, the Indiana Pacers would be adding a gem with this draft choice. Harkless doesn't need to be a knock-down shooter in Indiana, where so many players can already knock down an open J. Instead, Harkless would be quite a valuable defender for the Pacers, as he backs Danny Granger up at the 3.

Harkless can block shots, disrupt passing lanes and even defend in the post. His strong suit, however, is creating offense out of defense, forcing turnovers and finishing well above the rim.

Season Averages: 21.06 PER, 15.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.4 BPG

26. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Lakers): Festus Ezeli, Vanderbilt Commodores

Player Traits: Center—Senior—6'11"—225 pounds—7'0" wingspan

The Cleveland Cavaliers have already selected their 2 of the future, Florida's Bradley Beal, as well as their point guard and power forward in Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson. This leaves the next best options at the 5, where Anderson Varejao is constantly injured, and 3, where Alonzo Gee has been solid.

The Cavaliers will give Gee the benefit of the doubt for one more year and find a low-maintenance, high-quality center named Festus Ezeli.

Ezeli bares a strange resemblance to Kendrick Perkins, utilizing his size and physicality to muscle opponents around in the post. He's a big-time difference maker in the paint, blocking shots and grabbing rebounds while intimidating those entering his domain. What's most important is that Ezeli does not need to play big minutes to make big contributions.

Season Averages: 23.2 MPG, 19.61 PER, 10.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.0 BPG

27. Miami Heat: Henry Sims, Georgetown Hoyas

Player Traits: Center—Senior—6'10"—242 pounds—7'4" wingspan

Unfortunately for Heat fans, all centers with first-round talent are off the board. If you believe that will force the Heat to utilize their only draft pick on a different position, however, you're off your rocker.

Georgetown's Henry Sims was underwhelming on the boards, but on offense, he was a true force. He can score from the post and displays an ability to face the basket and drive. Furthermore, Sims is the quintessential Hoya big man, as he's an excellent passer and very capable shot-blocker.

In Miami, Sims would likely see some early opportunities to make his mark. His ability to block shots would be especially valuable in offsetting the heavily criticized defense of Chris Bosh. His offensive contributions will make them that much more dangerous.

Season Averages: 21.69 PER, 11.6 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.4 BPG

28. Oklahoma City Thunder: Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure Bonnies

Player Traits: Power Forward—Senior—6'9"—225 pounds—7'3" wingspan

Serge Ibaka is in no danger of losing his role as a starter, so quit while you're ahead. This pick simply adds a high-motor, offensively stout player at the 4 to back Ibaka up. Think of this more as a potential replacement of Nick Collison.

Nicholson won me over in the Atlantic 10 championship game, diving onto the floor for loose balls and throwing his body into harm's way in order to secure rebounds. He also displayed the qualities of a star 4, knocking down mid-range jump shots, as well as dominating with his back to the basket. He also blocked a handful of shots, putting the icing on the cake of a brilliant performance.

In Oklahoma City, expect more of the same.

Season Averages: 31.63 PER, 18.5 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.0 APG, 2.0 BPG

29. Golden State Warriors (via Spurs): Draymond Green, Michigan State Spartans

Player Traits: Small Forward—Senior—6'6"—235 pounds—7'0" wingspan

The Golden State Warriors have no greater individual weakness than at the 3. In adding Draymond Green, they'll have one of the most well-rounded prospects in this draft class. They'll also have security for another potential Stephen Curry injury, as Green is one heck of a ball-handler.

Green would not only offer security on offense, but help on defense as well. He has surprisingly quick hands, enabling him to come up with steals and blocked shots. He's also strong enough to play in the low-post, with a 7'0" wingspan that can shut down any 3 or 4.

Season Averages: 25.53 PER, 16.2 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG

30. Chicago Bulls: Doron Lamb, Kentucky Wildcats

Player Traits: Shooting Guard—Sophomore—6'4"—195 pounds

The Chicago Bulls are in dire need of a true scorer at the 2, with Richard Hamilton constantly injured and the combination of Ronnie Brewer and Jimmy Butler more defensive-oriented. In drafting Doron Lamb, the Bulls will create a shooting-guard tandem of the future that very few teams could match.

Lamb is widely considered to be one of the best pure shooters in this draft class, combining excellent footwork with perfect form and a quick release. What's understated, however, is how well Lamb can create for himself off of the dribble.

That's exactly what Chicago needs, as C.J. Watson and John Lucas are far less likely than the average point guard to create for others. Don't think Lamb can't hit an open shot off of a Derrick Rose drive-and-dish, however, because he can. And will.

Season Averages: 18.94 PER, 13.7 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 1.5 APG, 47% 3PT