NBA Draft 2012: Jeremy Lamb and More Players That Must Declare Eligibility

With the NCAA tournament out of the way, a number of young prospects are doing a lot of talking with their families and coaches to figure out if they should turn pro. Early entrants to the 2012 NBA draft have until April 29 to hire an agent and declare.

Here’s a look at a few players that would be making a great decision to leave school early and make the leap to the NBA.

Jeremy Lamb

There is no better time than now for the sophomore shooting guard to pack his bags and leave UConn.

The program was just nailed by the NCAA for poor academic performance and reportedly had multiple appeals denied, meaning they cannot compete in the 2013 NCAA tournament.

It’s going to be a lean time for the school and it’s likely that all of the NBA prospects from coach Jim Calhoun’s squad jump ship and declare.

Lamb might have the brightest future, considering he is a 6’5”, 185-pound swingman who is extremely skilled, versatile and attractive to a number of NBA franchises.

Expect him to go in the lottery if he makes himself eligible. 

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Kidd-Gilchrist’s stock is through the roof, and he should be ready for new challenges after Kentucky won the national championship this season.

The freshman has not yet made a decision—nor have any of the Wildcats stars—but it’s likely he joins Anthony Davis and the other one-and-done players on UK in making the transition to the NBA.

MKG projects to be a top five pick because of his 6’7”, 210-pound frame and commitment to playing the toughest defense imaginable.

He’ll be able to contribute right away because of that D and eventually his offensive game is going to flourish.

Bradley Beal

If the 18-year-old Florida player declares, he will be one of the first shooting guards off the board and almost guaranteed to go in the top 10.

He’s got so much potential and upside that it would be crazy for a team that needs backcourt help—such as the Blazers or Cavaliers—to pass on him.

Beal projects to be a solid starter, at the least, when he makes the leap—which is exactly why he should not wait another season.