NBA Draft 2012: 4 Prospects Who Will Fail as Rookies

Many of this summer's upcoming draftees will have successful NBA careers despite getting off to slow starts.

With so many collegiate players entering the draft after their freshman years, it shouldn't be surprising that the first few years of the average prospect's professional existence involves its fair share of learning on the job.

Some rookies will find themselves on deep rosters without the playing time to go around for the rookies on board. Others will quickly realize that their skills are far too raw to make an immediate impact.

Here are five rookies whose first years won't be a piece of cake.

Harrison Barnes, SF (North Carolina)

Barnes is still just 19, so a subpar rookie campaign shouldn't be taken too seriously over the long haul. Thanks to his already well-developed shooting skills, Barnes could prove his detractors wrong and wind up starting right away for a rebuilding team.

If he winds up with a coach who likes to develops rookies in time, we might see a less flashy season though—something akin to Alec Burks' solid but limited performance in Utah.

Jared Sullinger, PF (Ohio State)

Vertically undersized and otherwise wide-bodied, it may take Sullinger some time to learn how best to use his body in the NBA. Fortunately, he has the talent to do just that, but there will still be an adjustment period.

Sullinger is used to getting his way against smaller big men, and learning to play against NBA size will be priority No. 1, but a work-in-progress nonetheless.

Perry Jones III, PF (Baylor)

It's no secret that most of Perry Jones' hype has more to do with his upside than a proven track record of dominance. While Jones has been stellar at times, he was frustratingly inconsistent. His need for more polished skills aside, the real challenge for Jones will be acclimating his already suspect motor to the rigors of professional competition.

In the best possible scenario, Jones could one day display Garnett-like talent. It will take him a while to get there, though, if he gets there.

Austin Rivers, SG (Duke)

The 19-year-old Rivers could turn into a late-lottery steal, but the first year will pose some challenges. Rivers' rookie performance should outpace Jimmer Fredette's, but probably not by much.

Since he's unlikely to go in the top 10 picks, chances are Rivers will go to a team that already has a solid rotation and postseason aspirations. That could limit his opportunities. Moreover, Rivers is a bit undersized to play the two, and it could take him some time hone the point guard skills that would guarantee him a more prominent role in the NBA.