2012 NBA Draft: 5 Realistic Draft Targets for the Brooklyn Nets

Portland finished outside of the top three draft picks. Houston failed to make the playoffs. What that means for the Brooklyn Nets is that, until the lottery comes around, the Nets don't possess a single first-round draft choice.

Not what you want if you're a rebuilding franchise.

Nevertheless, the Nets do have one selection to make: 57th overall. The Nets landed this pick via Miami, and to break down who they could select with this pick, I've given you five prime candidates. Just don't forget that Rookie of the Year candidate Isaiah Thomas was selected 60th overall...

5. Darius Johnson-Odom, Marquette Golden Eagles

Player Traits: Guard/Forward—6'2"—215 pounds—6'6" wingspan

Is Darius Johnson-Odom incredibly undersized? Yes.

Will Darius Johnson-Odom struggle to find a position in the NBA? Yes. 

Is he one of the strongest players in this draft, who can handle the ball and lock down even the best of opponents?

Without a shadow of a doubt.

In bringing Darius Johnson-Odom to Brooklyn, the Nets will have landed a player who is talented enough as a ball handler to play as a reserve point guard. They'll also have a player who is long and physical enough to handle the 2.

Season Averages: 20.68—18.3 PPG—3.5 RPG—2.7 APG—0.9 SPG

4. Yancy Gates, Cincinnati Bearcats

Player Traits: Power Forward—6'9"—260 pounds—7'3" wingspan

Yancy Gates is a strong, physical player who can dominate the offensive glass. He has a massive wingspan, is athletic enough to run the floor and has the big body necessary to box out any opponent. If he could just improve his conditioning, this kid could be a star.

In Brooklyn, Gates would offer the Nets an insurance policy at the 4. With Kris Humphries set to hit free agency, they need a bruising big man who will control the glass. That's exactly what Gates could be and exactly why he's a top target.

Season Averages: 20.95 PER—12.2 PPG—8.9 RPG—0.9 BPG—0.7 SPG

3. Quincy Acy, Baylor Bears

Player Traits: Small Forward—6'7"—225 pounds—7'2" wingspan

With Gerald Wallace's future in doubt, one of the greatest positions of need on the Nets' roster is the 3. With a player available whose skill-set has a strong resemblance to that of Gerald Wallace, it's hard to imagine the Nets passing up on the opportunity to select him.

Quincy Acy of the Baylor Bears became a fan favorite due to his work ethic and big-time dunking ability. What is rather unacknowledged about him, however, is that he's a true leader who excels on the perimeter and in the low-post while defending an opponent's best player.

This is the type of player who the Nets need to bring aboard.

Season Averages: 22.70 PER—12.0 PPG—7.4 RPG—1.8 BPG—0.9 SPG

2. Hollis Thompson, Georgetown Hoyas

Player Traits: Small Forward—6'8"—205 pounds—6'10" wingspan

Hollis Thompson is a lights out shooter, has a great motor and has the size and length to disrupt any opponent on defense. While he struggles at creating shots off of the dribble, he's excellent at coming off of screens and shooting on the move.

In Brooklyn, Thompson would offer the Nets yet another versatile wingman. Alongside MarShon Brooks, Thompson would offer the Nets yet another shooter who can stretch the floor or attack the basket. Versatility would separate this team upon this selection.

Season Averages: 18.87 PER—12.8 PPG—5.5 RPG—1.5 APG—0.7 SPG

1. Tu Holloway, Xavier Musketeers

Player Traits: Point Guard—6'0"—180 pounds

The Brooklyn Nets could lose both their star point guard, Deron Williams, and backup, Sundiata Gaines, to free agency. In order to replace them, selecting Brooklyn native Tu Holloway would be the best case scenario for the Nets' future.

Holloway was a high school star in the area, instantly drawing attention from local fans. Furthermore, Holloway was the leader of the perennial NCAA tournament invite Xavier for three years running. He displayed an ability to score, facilitate and defend at an elite level. While he is slightly undersized, he's also the best point guard available at this point.

For hometown Brooklyn fans alone, he's the best point guard prospect.

Season Averages: 21.62 PER—17.5 PPG—4.9 APG—3.6 RPG—1.5 SPG